Top 20 Tourist Places in Austria

1. Vienna – Austria’s Imperial and Cultural Capital

Vienna, the capital of Austria, is a city where imperial grandeur meets modern creativity. Once the heart of the powerful Habsburg Empire, Vienna is renowned for its magnificent palaces, world-class museums, classical music heritage, and refined café culture. Walking through the city feels like stepping into a living museum, yet Vienna remains vibrant, youthful, and forward-thinking.

The city’s historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to landmarks such as St. Stephen’s Cathedral, with its striking tiled roof, and the elegant Ringstrasse, which circles the old town and showcases grand buildings like the State Opera and Parliament. Vienna is inseparable from classical music, having been home to legendary composers such as Mozart, Beethoven, and Strauss. Concert halls continue this legacy with performances throughout the year.

Viennese cafés are an institution in themselves. Locals and visitors alike spend hours enjoying coffee, pastries like Sachertorte, and thoughtful conversation. Museums such as the Belvedere, Albertina, and Museum Quarter offer everything from classical art to contemporary exhibitions.

Vienna also excels in quality of life, with green spaces, efficient public transport, and a relaxed rhythm. Whether you are drawn by history, music, cuisine, or architecture, Vienna offers a timeless and deeply enriching travel experience.

2. Salzburg – Mozart’s Birthplace and Baroque Beauty

Salzburg is one of Austria’s most enchanting cities, famous worldwide as the birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and for its stunning baroque architecture. Set against a dramatic Alpine backdrop, Salzburg combines cultural elegance with natural beauty in a compact and walkable city.

The historic Old Town (Altstadt) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, filled with narrow streets, ornate churches, and historic squares. Highlights include Salzburg Cathedral, Mozart’s Birthplace, and the lively Getreidegasse, known for its traditional shop signs and boutiques. Overlooking the city is the imposing Hohensalzburg Fortress, one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval castles, offering panoramic views of Salzburg and the surrounding mountains.

Music plays a central role in Salzburg’s identity. Classical concerts, festivals, and opera performances take place year-round, most famously during the Salzburg Festival, which attracts artists and audiences from around the globe. The city also gained pop-culture fame as a filming location for The Sound of Music.

Beyond culture, Salzburg offers easy access to Alpine lakes and hiking trails. Its blend of history, music, and scenery makes Salzburg a fairytale destination that appeals to all types of travelers.

3. Hallstatt – Austria’s Fairytale Lakeside Village

Hallstatt is one of the most picturesque villages in the world, often described as a real-life fairytale. Nestled between towering mountains and the tranquil Hallstätter See, this small village is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Austria’s most photographed destinations.

The charm of Hallstatt lies in its setting and scale. Colorful houses line the lake’s edge, while narrow lanes climb the hillside. The reflection of the village in the calm water creates an unforgettable scene, especially at sunrise or sunset. Hallstatt’s history dates back over 7,000 years, making it one of the oldest continuously inhabited settlements in Europe.

Visitors can explore the Hallstatt Salt Mine, among the oldest in the world, which reveals the region’s ancient salt-mining heritage. The Bone House (Beinhaus), displaying painted skulls, offers a unique insight into local traditions. Boat rides on the lake provide stunning views and a peaceful way to experience the area.

Despite its small size, Hallstatt leaves a powerful impression. Its serene beauty, rich history, and Alpine setting make it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking romance, photography, and timeless scenery.

4. Innsbruck – Alpine City of Sport and History

Innsbruck is a unique city where imperial history and alpine adventure exist side by side. Located in the heart of the Tyrolean Alps, Innsbruck is famous for winter sports, mountain scenery, and a charming old town framed by dramatic peaks.

The city’s historic center features colorful buildings and medieval streets. The most iconic landmark is the Golden Roof (Goldenes Dachl), built for Emperor Maximilian I and decorated with gilded tiles. Nearby, Hofburg Palace and Innsbruck Cathedral reflect the city’s imperial past.

Innsbruck has twice hosted the Winter Olympics, cementing its reputation as a global winter sports destination. Ski slopes, cable cars, and hiking trails are accessible directly from the city, allowing visitors to move seamlessly from urban exploration to mountain adventure.

Modern Innsbruck is also a lively university city with contemporary architecture, cafés, and cultural events. Whether visiting in winter for skiing or summer for hiking and sightseeing, Innsbruck offers a rare combination of city life and alpine excitement.

5. Schönbrunn Palace – Vienna’s Imperial Masterpiece

Schönbrunn Palace is one of Austria’s most magnificent landmarks and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Once the summer residence of the Habsburg emperors, the palace symbolizes imperial power, elegance, and artistic achievement.

The palace features over 1,400 rooms, many richly decorated with frescoes, chandeliers, and ornate furnishings. Visitors can explore the state apartments, gaining insight into the lives of emperors such as Franz Joseph and Empress Maria Theresa. The palace gardens are equally impressive, with fountains, sculptures, and manicured lawns stretching across vast grounds.

A highlight of the gardens is the Gloriette, a hilltop structure offering sweeping views over Vienna. Schönbrunn also houses one of the world’s oldest zoos, the Tiergarten Schönbrunn, making it a family-friendly destination.

More than just a palace, Schönbrunn represents Austria’s imperial legacy and artistic heritage. Its grandeur and harmony make it one of Europe’s finest royal residences.

6. Hofburg Palace – Heart of Imperial Vienna

Hofburg Palace served as the political and ceremonial center of the Habsburg Empire for centuries. Located in central Vienna, this vast complex reflects the evolution of Austrian power from medieval times to the modern republic.

The palace includes several museums and institutions, such as the Imperial Apartments, Sisi Museum, and Spanish Riding School, where the famous Lipizzaner horses perform classical dressage. Each section reveals different aspects of imperial life, from daily routines to formal ceremonies.

Today, Hofburg is also the official residence of Austria’s president, linking history with contemporary governance. Its architecture blends Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, and Rococo styles, reflecting centuries of expansion.

Hofburg Palace offers a deep and immersive journey into Austria’s imperial story, making it an essential stop for understanding Vienna’s historical importance.

7. Wachau Valley – Danube Scenery and Wine Heritage

The Wachau Valley is one of Austria’s most scenic regions, stretching along the Danube River between Melk and Krems. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is famous for vineyards, medieval towns, and river landscapes.

Terraced vineyards produce some of Austria’s finest white wines, especially Grüner Veltliner and Riesling. Villages such as Dürnstein charm visitors with colorful houses and historic ruins. Cycling and boat cruises are popular ways to explore the valley.

In spring, apricot blossoms cover the hillsides, while autumn brings golden vineyards. The Wachau Valley combines nature, history, and gastronomy into one unforgettable experience.

8. Graz – Renaissance Elegance and Modern Energy

Graz, Austria’s second-largest city, blends Renaissance beauty with youthful creativity. Its historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, filled with red-roofed buildings, courtyards, and narrow streets.

The city’s symbol, the Schlossberg Clock Tower, offers panoramic views over Graz. Below, cafés and markets create a lively atmosphere. Graz is also known for its culinary scene and designation as a UNESCO City of Design.

With universities, modern architecture, and cultural festivals, Graz balances tradition and innovation beautifully.

9. Zell am See – Alpine Lake and Glacier Views

Zell am See is a stunning alpine town set beside a crystal-clear lake and surrounded by snow-capped mountains. It is a year-round destination offering skiing in winter and water sports and hiking in summer.

The town center is charming, with lakeside promenades and mountain views in every direction. Cable cars take visitors to high viewpoints, while boat cruises offer relaxing lake experiences.

Zell am See is ideal for travelers seeking nature, relaxation, and outdoor adventure.

10. St. Anton am Arlberg – Legendary Ski Resort

St. Anton am Arlberg is one of the world’s most famous ski destinations, known for challenging slopes, deep snow, and lively après-ski culture. Located in western Austria, it attracts experienced skiers from around the globe.

Beyond winter sports, St. Anton offers hiking, mountain biking, and alpine scenery in summer. Traditional chalets and mountain hospitality add to its charm.

It remains a symbol of Austria’s alpine sporting excellence.

11. Melk Abbey – Baroque Wonder on the Danube

Melk Abbey is one of Europe’s most breathtaking Baroque monasteries, dramatically perched on a rocky outcrop overlooking the Danube River in Lower Austria. Founded in the 11th century as a Benedictine monastery, the abbey later transformed into a magnificent Baroque masterpiece, symbolizing spiritual authority, artistic excellence, and intellectual heritage. Its striking golden-yellow façade dominates the landscape and can be seen from far along the river, making it a landmark of the Wachau Valley.

Inside, Melk Abbey reveals a world of ornate beauty. The Abbey Church features lavish frescoes, gilded altars, and intricate stucco work that exemplify high Baroque artistry. One of the most remarkable spaces is the library, housing over 100,000 volumes, including rare medieval manuscripts. The ceiling fresco, depicting faith and knowledge, reinforces the abbey’s role as a center of learning for centuries.

Beyond its interiors, Melk Abbey offers panoramic views of vineyards, river bends, and historic towns of the Wachau Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The terraced gardens and peaceful courtyards provide moments of quiet reflection. Today, Melk Abbey remains an active monastery while welcoming visitors from around the world, making it a powerful blend of living spirituality, history, and architectural brilliance.

12. Bad Ischl – Imperial Spa Elegance

Bad Ischl is an elegant spa town in the Salzkammergut region, renowned for its imperial heritage, wellness traditions, and scenic Alpine surroundings. During the 19th century, the town became the favored summer retreat of Emperor Franz Joseph I, who spent many seasons here with Empress Elisabeth (Sisi). It was in Bad Ischl that the emperor signed the declaration that led to World War I, giving the town historical significance beyond its serene beauty.

The town’s reputation as a spa destination is built on its natural salt springs and thermal baths, which have attracted visitors seeking healing and relaxation for centuries. Today, modern wellness centers, traditional spa houses, and riverside promenades continue this legacy. The Kaiservilla, the former imperial residence, offers insight into royal life and is surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens.

Bad Ischl also charms visitors with its elegant architecture, cozy cafés, and famous pastries like Zauner torte. Surrounded by mountains, lakes, and forests, it serves as a perfect base for hiking, cycling, and cultural excursions. Bad Ischl effortlessly combines imperial history, spa culture, and natural beauty, making it a refined and restorative destination.

13. Klagenfurt – Lakeside Charm

Klagenfurt is a picturesque city in southern Austria, located on the eastern shore of Lake Wörthersee, one of the warmest and most inviting alpine lakes in the country. Founded during the Renaissance period, Klagenfurt features a well-preserved old town with arcaded courtyards, pastel-colored buildings, and elegant squares that reflect its Italian-influenced architectural heritage.

Lake Wörthersee defines much of Klagenfurt’s lifestyle and appeal. In summer, the lake becomes a hub for swimming, sailing, paddleboarding, and lakeside relaxation. Tree-lined promenades, beach areas, and cafés create a relaxed holiday atmosphere that attracts visitors from across Europe. The water’s clarity and warmth make it ideal for families and leisure travelers.

Cultural attractions include museums, galleries, and the iconic Lindwurm Fountain, symbol of the city. Klagenfurt also hosts lively summer festivals, open-air concerts, and culinary events that showcase Carinthian cuisine. With its sunny climate, cultural charm, and lakeside pleasures, Klagenfurt offers a perfect blend of urban comfort and outdoor relaxation.

14. Grossglockner High Alpine Road – Mountain Majesty

The Grossglockner High Alpine Road is one of Europe’s most spectacular mountain drives, winding through the heart of the Austrian Alps. Stretching across the Hohe Tauern National Park, the road reaches elevations over 2,500 meters and offers dramatic views of glaciers, alpine meadows, waterfalls, and rugged peaks, including Grossglockner, Austria’s highest mountain.

Built as an engineering marvel in the 1930s, the road is more than a route—it is an experience. Numerous viewpoints, information centers, and walking paths allow travelers to stop and fully appreciate the surrounding landscapes. One of the highlights is the Kaiser-Franz-Josefs-Höhe, where visitors can observe the Pasterze Glacier and high-altitude wildlife such as marmots and ibex.

The road is popular with motorists, cyclists, and photographers alike, especially during summer when wildflowers bloom and visibility is at its best. Educational exhibits along the way explain alpine ecology and climate change. Driving the Grossglockner High Alpine Road is an unforgettable journey into Austria’s natural grandeur and alpine wilderness.

15. Bad Gastein – Spa Town with Waterfalls

Bad Gastein is a dramatic and distinctive spa town located in a narrow Alpine valley in Salzburg state. Unlike traditional spa towns, Bad Gastein stands out for its towering Belle Époque buildings, steep terrain, and a powerful waterfall that cascades directly through the town center, creating a unique and striking atmosphere.

The town rose to fame in the 19th century as a fashionable health resort visited by European royalty, artists, and intellectuals. Its thermal waters, rich in minerals and radon, are believed to have therapeutic properties and continue to attract wellness travelers today. Historic grand hotels add a nostalgic charm, blending elegance with alpine ruggedness.

Beyond wellness, Bad Gastein is a hub for outdoor adventure. Skiing, hiking, mountain biking, and paragliding are all popular, depending on the season. Cultural events, art installations, and music festivals contribute to the town’s creative revival. With its mix of healing waters, dramatic scenery, and artistic spirit, Bad Gastein offers a spa experience unlike any other in Europe.

16. Linz – Culture on the Danube

Linz is a dynamic city located on the Danube River and serves as the capital of Upper Austria. While once known primarily as an industrial center, Linz has reinvented itself as a hub of culture, innovation, and digital arts. Its transformation has made it one of Austria’s most forward-thinking cities.

The city’s cultural scene is anchored by institutions such as the Ars Electronica Center, a world-renowned museum dedicated to technology, science, and digital creativity. Linz also hosts music festivals, contemporary art exhibitions, and theater performances throughout the year. The historic old town contrasts beautifully with modern architecture and riverfront developments.

Linz has strong historical roots as well, with connections to composer Anton Bruckner and a charming main square lined with baroque buildings. Riverside parks and cycling paths along the Danube create a relaxed urban environment. Linz’s blend of history, creativity, and innovation makes it a fascinating destination for culture lovers and curious travelers.

17. Eisriesenwelt Ice Cave – Frozen Wonder

Eisriesenwelt, located near the town of Werfen, is the largest ice cave in the world, stretching over 40 kilometers into the Tennengebirge mountains. This natural wonder offers a surreal underground landscape of towering ice formations, frozen waterfalls, and shimmering chambers that feel like another planet.

Accessible via cable car and a guided tour, the cave is open to visitors during warmer months when conditions are safe. Inside, temperatures remain below freezing, preserving massive ice sculptures formed by meltwater and cold air currents. Dramatic lighting enhances the shapes and textures of the ice, creating a magical atmosphere.

The visit requires a moderate level of fitness, as stairs and walking are involved, adding to the sense of adventure. Eisriesenwelt is not only visually stunning but also scientifically fascinating, offering insight into geological processes and climate patterns. It is one of Austria’s most extraordinary natural attractions.

18. Werfen Castle – Medieval Drama

Werfen Castle is a striking medieval fortress perched high above the Salzach Valley, offering commanding views of the surrounding Alps. Built in the 11th century, the castle once served as a defensive stronghold and later as a prison and military base.

Today, Werfen Castle is a popular visitor attraction, bringing medieval history to life through exhibitions, demonstrations, and reenactments. One of its highlights is the falconry show, where birds of prey soar above the valley, showcasing traditional hunting techniques.

The castle’s stone walls, towers, and courtyards create a dramatic setting that has even appeared in films. Walking through Werfen Castle provides insight into feudal life, medieval warfare, and strategic architecture. Combined with breathtaking scenery, it offers a memorable journey into Austria’s past.

19. Lake Wolfgang – Alpine Lakeside Beauty

Lake Wolfgang, or Wolfgangsee, is one of Austria’s most beautiful alpine lakes, surrounded by forested mountains and charming villages such as St. Wolfgang, St. Gilgen, and Strobl. The lake’s clear waters and scenic setting have made it a beloved holiday destination for generations.

Visitors can enjoy swimming, sailing, kayaking, and boat cruises that connect the lakeside towns. Hiking trails and mountain railways offer panoramic views over the lake, especially from Schafberg Peak. The region combines natural beauty with cultural traditions, festivals, and historic churches.

Whether visiting for relaxation or outdoor activities, Lake Wolfgang offers timeless alpine charm and postcard-perfect scenery.

20. Seefeld – Alpine Resort Escape

Seefeld is a renowned alpine resort located on a sunny plateau in Tyrol, known for its outdoor activities, wellness facilities, and charming village atmosphere. Surrounded by mountains, it offers year-round appeal for both active travelers and those seeking relaxation.

In winter, Seefeld is famous for cross-country skiing and well-maintained alpine slopes. In summer, hiking, cycling, and golfing dominate, with trails suitable for all fitness levels. The village itself features traditional architecture, cafés, and boutiques.

Seefeld also has a strong wellness tradition, with spas and hotels focused on health and rejuvenation. Its balance of alpine adventure, comfort, and scenic beauty makes Seefeld one of Austria’s most inviting mountain escapes.