Snowy Escapes and Ski Breaks
Austria is a paradise for winter sports enthusiasts. With world-class ski resorts like Kitzbühel and Saalbach, powdery slopes, lively après-ski scenes, and charming alpine lodges, it’s no wonder Austria is one of Europe’s top ski destinations. Whether you're a beginner or a black-run pro, the mountains are calling!
Summer in the Mountains
When the snow melts, Austria’s alpine landscapes turn lush and green—perfect for hiking, mountain biking, and lake-side relaxing. Summer brings wildflower-filled meadows, cable car rides to panoramic peaks, and crystal-clear lakes like Zell am See that are ideal for swimming or paddleboarding.
Culture and Classical Charm
For those craving a culture fix, Austria delivers in style. Think opera in Vienna, Mozart in Salzburg, and grand palaces, museums, and cathedrals steeped in imperial history. Add in scenic train rides, elegant cafés, and charming towns, and you’ve got the recipe for a culture-rich getaway.
From snow-covered peaks to imperial palaces, Austria is a land of beauty, charm, and classical elegance. Whether you’re carving down ski slopes, strolling through baroque streets, or sipping coffee in a cosy café, Austria offers an unforgettable escape in every season. It’s a country where tradition and adventure meet—wrapped up in postcard-perfect scenery and world-famous hospitality.
The Hills Are Literally Alive with Music
Austria has a deep musical heritage. It's the birthplace of classical giants like Mozart, Haydn, Schubert, and Strauss. And of course, it’s the filming location of The Sound of Music, which draws fans from around the globe to Salzburg’s hills, gardens, and storybook settings.
Home to One of the World’s Oldest Zoos and Giant Ferris Wheels
Vienna’s Tiergarten Schönbrunn, opened in 1752, is the world’s oldest zoo and still operating today in the grounds of a spectacular royal palace. Meanwhile, the famous Wiener Riesenrad—Vienna’s historic Ferris wheel—has been spinning since 1897 and offers gorgeous views of the city skyline.
It’s a Café Culture with a Side of Cake
Austrian cafés are more than just places to grab a drink—they're institutions of culture and conversation. Sit down with a melange (local-style cappuccino) and a slice of Sachertorte, and you’ll instantly understand why Austrians take their coffee time so seriously.
Weather
Austria experiences four distinct seasons. Winter (December to March) is prime ski season with guaranteed snow in the mountains. Spring and autumn bring mild weather, blooming meadows, and fewer crowds—great for sightseeing and hiking. Summer (June to August) is warm, especially in the valleys, making it perfect for outdoor activities and lake holidays. Mountain areas stay refreshingly cool even during the hottest months.
Spoken Languages and Currency
The official language is German, though the Austrian dialect can be quite distinct. Thankfully, English is widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels, restaurants, and ski resorts. The local currency is the Euro (€), and most places accept card payments, though it’s always handy to carry a bit of cash in smaller towns and mountain huts.
Popular Destinations
Kitzbühel
A glamorous mountain town known for its legendary Hahnenkamm ski race, designer boutiques, and postcard-perfect charm. Kitzbühel combines alpine tradition with luxury living.
Mayrhofen
Laid-back and lively in equal measure, Mayrhofen offers top-notch skiing in winter and adrenaline-fuelled activities like paragliding and hiking in summer—all set in the stunning Zillertal Valley.
Saalbach
With an enormous ski network and plenty of cosy mountain huts, Saalbach is a snow lover’s paradise. In summer, it transforms into a mecca for mountain bikers and trail walkers.
Zell am See
A gorgeous lakeside town with a dramatic alpine backdrop. Zell am See is ideal for both summer swims and snowy adventures, with year-round glacier skiing just around the corner.
Top Things to See and Do in Austria
Hit the Slopes in the Austrian Alps
Whether you're skiing, snowboarding, or just taking in the snowy scenery from a mountain bar, Austria’s ski resorts are second to none. With modern lifts, reliable snow, and beautiful alpine villages, it’s a winter wonderland for all.
Take a Scenic Train Journey on the Semmering Railway
One of Europe’s most picturesque rail routes, this UNESCO-listed line weaves through mountain tunnels, dramatic viaducts, and charming countryside. It’s a peaceful way to soak up Austria’s natural beauty.
Visit a Traditional Heuriger (Wine Tavern)
In regions like the Wachau Valley and outskirts of Vienna, you’ll find rustic wine taverns serving up local wines and hearty snacks. Sit outside, sip some Grüner Veltliner, and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere among vineyards and rolling hills.
Relax by Lake Zell or Take a Dip
In summer, the waters of Lake Zell turn a brilliant turquoise. Go for a swim, rent a kayak, or simply laze on the shore with mountain views all around. It’s the ultimate alpine beach day!
Time to Say "Servus" to Austria!
Whether you’re gliding down powdery pistes, hiking alpine trails, exploring grand cities, or simply indulging in coffee and cake, Austria delivers unforgettable experiences at every turn. It’s a place where mountain magic meets cultural class—and it’s waiting for you to explore it.
All Austria Destinations
- Achensee
- Alpbach
- Bad Hofgastein
- Hinterglemm
- Kaprun
- Kitzbühel
- Mayrhofen
- Millstatt
- Nassfeld
- Nauders
- Niederau
- Obergurgl
- Ramsau im Zillertal
- Saalbach
- Salzburg
- Schladming
- Seefeld
- St Anton
- St Gilgen
- St Johann in Tyrol
- St Wolfgang
- Söll
- Zell am See
- Vienna - View Detailed Guide
