10 Top Tourist Attractions & Best Places to See in Austria

Austria is located in the centre of Europe and effortlessly kisses rich history, breathtaking landscape and vibrant culture with the same cheek. Austria has everything to offer to the travelers from the continents of adventure on the snow capped peaks of the Alps to imperial charms of Vienna. This fair enchanted country has its attractions of medieval castles, opera at a world class level and skiing in the Alpine back drop. Before you plan your trip, don’t forget to apply for your Austria Visa to have a hassle free travel.

Obtaining Austria Visa from India is an easy task for Indian travelers and it has become much easier for them to explore this beautiful destination. No matter whether you are into history, nature or just food, Austria as a country can guarantee your unforgettable memories. Now it is time to explore the top 10 must visit attractions in Austria that every traveler must visit.

Here are the 10 Top Tourist Attractions & Best Places to See in Austria

1. Schonbrunn Palace, Vienna

Schonbrunn Palace is a magnificent Baroque masterpiece and one of Vienna’s most iconic landmarks. This UNESCO-listed palace was once the summer residence of the Habsburg monarchy and has 1,441 rooms, stunning frescoes and grand interiors of imperial luxury. The vast gardens are open to visitors, as are the Gloriette for views of the city and lavish halls such as the Great Gallery on guided tours. The world’s oldest zoo is also found in the palace, which makes it a great place for history and nature lovers alike.

2. Hallstatt

Hallstatt has a postcard perfect setting with a historic background. It is surrounded by Austrian Alps, famous for its traditional wooden houses, the Hallstatt Salt Mine one of the oldest in the world and of course the Hallstatter See. The village’s pretty streets are open to visitors, there’s a scenic boat ride on your itinerary or you can trek up to the Hallstatt Skywalk for an impressive panorama that will take your breath away.

3. The Hofburg, Vienna

The Hofburg is a wonderful architectural wonder that was the imperial palace of the Habsburg dynasty for over 600 years. Now a vast complex making several museums, including the Sisi Museum, which showcases how Empress Elisabeth lived and the personal artifacts she had. The Imperial Apartments, Austrian National Library and the Spanish Riding School with its famous Lipizzaner horses can be visited by the visitors. Austria’s grand imperial past lives on in the Hofburg.

4. Salzburg’s Old Town (Altstadt)

Baroque architecture, cobbled streets and cultural landmarks are a treasure trove of Salzburg’s Old Town. The city is also home to Mozart’s birthplace and Mirabell Palace, as the birthplace of such a musical history, visitors come to see. A view of medieval life can be enjoyed from the top of Hohensalzburg Fortress, which towers over the city. Many filming locations will be familiar to fans of The Sound of Music, and Salzburg is a city that all history lovers, music enthusiasts and film buffs should visit.

5. Grossglockner High Alpine Road

The Grossglockner High Alpine Road is one of the most scenic European drives passing through the breathtaking landscapes of Austria’s mountains. The route stretches 48 kilometers and includes spectacular views of Austria’s highest peak, the Grossglockner, and the scenic Hohe Tauern National Park. On the way, there are picturesque viewpoints to break and a nature trail (and of various wildlife). As hikers, we are intrigued by this alpine route, or as a road trip takes a toll on just anyone.

6. Melk Abbey

The architectural marvel is Melk Abbey, which sits on a hill above the Danube River. It is famous for its golden Baroque interior, beautiful frescoes and a splendid library with ancient manuscripts. Grand church of the abbey is a work of art with a magnificent domed ceiling. Away from the monastery the gardens are beautiful and provide a serene garden setting with stunning views over the surrounding valley to make this one of Austria’s most enchanting cultural sites.

7. Innsbruck and the Austrian Alps

Breathless in the heart of the Austrian Alpes, Innsbruck is either a heaven for adventure seekers or for the history lovers. The city is known for its world class ski resorts, Old Town and its famous Golden Roof. In winter, visitors can ski and snowboard, or in summer, a hiking and mountain biking trails is going to be had. Innsbruck becomes a year round destination with alpine beauty with panoramic views over the city at the Bergisel Ski Jump, designed by architect Zaha Hadid.

8. Belvedere Palace, Vienna

Belvedere Palace is an impressive Baroque building, with the Upper and Lower Belvedere, beautiful gardens and fountains. A house of impressive Austrian art, including Gustav Klimt’s masterpiece, The Kiss, is a must visit for art lovers. The palace’s opulent architecture, carefully designed landscapes, and Austria’s artistic and royal heritage are on display. Belvedere is a cultural experience and a peaceful retreat in the heart of Vienna.

9. Eisriesenwelt Ice Cave

The Eisriesenwelt Ice Cave in Werfen is the largest ice cave in the world extending for some 25km on into the depths of the Austrian Alps. There are incredible ice formations, shining stalactites, flashing walls, and such an otherworldly experience. Visitors are also led deep into the cave on a guided tour where the flickering torch light adds to the magical atmosphere. The cave is frozen even in summer and that is a unique attraction for adventure seekers.

10. Wachau Valley

Wachau Valley is a pretty region with a charming center that's lined with medieval castles, vine covered rolling hills, and it sits on the Danube River. Visitors on the river cruise take a route through the valley passing charming villages, historic monasteries and the spectacular ruins of Durnstein Castle. Family run wineries and the best white wines of the region can be explored by wine lovers. Austria’s countryside at its most beautiful is the valley’s lush landscapes and cultural heritage, which makes it the perfect place for those who want to experience the countryside.

Conclusion

Austria is a country that is a perfect blend of history, nature and culture, and it has something to offer travelers that is unforgettable. Austrian hasn’t successfully improved their tourism branding outside of the Austrian Alps, but the interior is where they should be showcasing their beauty and charm: from marvelling at the grandeur of Schonbrunn Palace to skiing in the Alps to visiting the charming villages such as Hallstatt. To make the country a must visit destination for every traveler the country has a breathtaking landscapes, vibrant arts scene and warm hospitality.

If you are planning to travel to Austria from India then you must apply for Austria Visa from India before you set off on your Austrian adventure. Whatever brings you to Austria, you’ll get a unique experience. That’s why, pack your bags, get your visa, and are ready to discover what’s in store in the legendary Austria.