Mark's Travel Journal

It’s tough to pick a short list of my top 5 places to visit in Austria. For me, it’s the perfect destination. Among other things, Austria has its history, natural beauty, and Alpine terrain. It’s a perfect vacation destination for travelers in search of a new adventure in Europe. Enthusiastic skiers and snowboarders regularly visit to experience the famous Austrian Alps. But there is a lot more to Austria than snow. In fact, Austria has some of the most historic architecture in all of Europe. And it has a myriad of towns and cities with their own distinct and unique cultural feel. Here’s my list of the top 5 places to visit in Austria:

Vienna

Vienna is a cultural centre known for its architecture, fine art, and music. With many diverse architectural styles throughout the city, travelers can expect to find many well-preserved examples of Romanesque, Baroque, Classicist, and Art Nouveau styled structures. Vienna hosts over 200 balls every year in its celebrated tradition. It also hosts a variety of classical music concerts featuring famous composers who once called Vienna home, including Mozart, Beethoven, Brahms, and others. Christmas in Vienna is a special time in the city with its many magical Christmas markets. And no visit to Vienna is complete without a visit to one of their many famous cafes. Austrian cakes, like the “Sacher Torte” are world renowned. There’s nothing better than a slice of cake and a coffee at a famous Vienniese landmark like the Demel.

Salzburg

Situated near Germany’s southern border with Austria, the city of Salzburg, like its capital counterpart, is famous for its long-standing musical traditions and old city centre. Salzburg is the birthplace of Wolfgang Mozart and features the Mozart Museum, his former home. Beyond the numerous examples of historic architecture and artistic attractions, Salzburg is surrounded by a breathtaking Alps mountain range. A visit to Salzburg allows you to explore the experiential contrast of rich history and stunning natural beauty simultaneously. Take the funicular to Hohensalzburg Fortress for a breathtaking view of the city and surrounding countryside. It is one of the largest medieval castles in Europe, dating back to 1077.

Salzkammergut

Salzkammergut – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – is an Austrian resort area surrounded by serene blue lakes, rolling hills, and snow-capped mountain ranges. It has served as one of the countries prime tourist destinations for well over 100 years. The area dates back to the Bronze Age when salt production began here. Needless to say, a tour of the salt mine in Halstatt is a must. There is no shortage of recreational activities to do in the area including mountaineering, horseback riding, swimming and cycling. The Salzkammergut region has many luxury spas and hotel resorts within the area. If you are visting in the summer months, a slow boat ride around Lake Halstatt will be serene and provide gorgeous views of surrounding towns and mountains.

Innsbruck

Innsbruck is famous for hosting the Winter Olympics in 1964 and 1976. It is widely considered to be one of the best winter sports destinations in the world. If you are not skiing or snowboarding, or visiting during the summer months, you can find plenty to do and see in the historic city as well. Explore the Innsbruck Cathedral, the bell-making museum, or one of the city’s many local restaurants. Innsbruck is nestled in the heart of the Alps and is one of Austria’s most scenic cities. A short 20-minute train ride from Innsbruck takes you up the mountain to Seefeld. From there, you can take a funicular and then cable car to Rosshutte. At the very top, you’ll see the mountain tops of 4 countries – Austria, Germany, Switzerland and Italy.

Zell Am See

For travelers who are looking for both natural scenery and wilderness adventures, the town of Zell am See is a ‘must-visit’ destination. Surrounded by the Austrian Alps, world-class ski areas, and serene blue lakes, Zell am See hosts numerous outdoor recreation events year long. In the winter, it plays host to a number of ski and snowboard competitions. Be sure to take a drive along the Grossglockner Alpine Road from here for some of the most awe-inspiring scenery in the country.

I’m a fan of most European countries but Austria has my heart. If you haven’t been to Austria, you must get there. You’ll go back again and again, like I do.