Austria

Home of my ancestral heart, it’s the miniature landlocked country in the middle of Europe that’s high on beauty.

It’s here that you can listen to the lyrical overtones of classicists such as Mozart and Strauss, watch the prancing Lipizzaner stallions in Vienna or wrap yourself around the winding valleys carved through the Alps.

There’s no denying the fact Austria is a dream destination. Albeit miniature, it’s bursting at its compact seams with beauty. It’s a place to which I continually return and I’m hoping it’s a country to which you’ll be drawn, too.

Do you need convincing?

Let this overview of Austria inspire you to plan a trip today.

Things to Know Before Travelling to Austria

Facts

Capital: Vienna

Population: 9,144,472 (2023)

Language: Austrian/German (with regional languages and dialects spoken throughout the country, such as Bavarian, Alemannic, and Slovene).

Currency: Euro (EUR)

Visas

Austria is a member of the Schengen Area, which is a group of 26 European countries that have abolished passport and other types of border control at their common borders. This means that citizens of certain countries, including many from North America, South America, Australia, and most countries in Europe, do not need a visa to enter Austria for stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

Citizens of other countries, including many in Africa, Asia, and the Middle East, do need a visa to enter Austria. Visa requirements can be confirmed by checking with the Austrian embassy or consulate in your home country for the most up-to-date information.

Best time to visit

Here's a breakdown of what to expect:

Spring (March to May):

It's a wonderful time to visit (and my favourite seasons of the year here). The countryside bursts into colour with blooming flowers.

It's a great time for hiking. The cities are also less crowded than in summer.

Summer (June to August):

This is peak season in Austria as the weather is warm and sunny, making it perfect for outdoor activities.

It's also when Salzburg Festival, the Vienna Jazz Festival, and the Bregenz Festival can be attended.

Autumn (September to November):

The leaves turn to brilliant shades of red, orange, and yellow.

The weather is cooler, but still pleasant, ideal for visiting the wine regions of Burgenland and Styria. Hotel prices drop.

Winter (December to February):

The snow blankets the Alps and cities which turns the country into a wonderland.

Skiing and snowboarding. ice skating, curling, and sledding are popularly practiced.

Top Things to Do in Austria

Explore the Salzburg Region

It's a picturesque city located near the German border, and the birthplace of Mozart. There are beautiful mountains, lakes, and charming villages on its doorstep. Visit Mirabell Palace and Gardens, the Hohensalzburg Fortress, and the Salzburg Cathedral.

Ski in the Austrian Alps

Austria is home to some of the best ski resorts in the world, with beautiful mountain scenery and a variety of terrain for skiers of all levels. Consider St. Anton, Kitzbühel, and Lech-Zürs.

Visit the Danube Valley

This is Lower Austria, home to rustic villages, rolling hills, and scenic vineyards. Explore Melk Abbey, the Wachau Valley, and the charming town of Dürnstein.

Discover Innsbruck

Visit the historic city of Innsbruck, nestled in the heart of the Tyrolean Alps. Explore its charming Old Town, take a funicular ride to the Nordkette mountain, and admire the Golden Roof. Enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and skiing in the nearby mountains.

Experience Coffee Culture

Indulge in Vienna's famous coffee culture. Spend time in traditional Viennese coffeehouses, sipping on a rich cup of coffee and savoring delicious pastries. Try classic coffeehouse specialties like a Wiener Melange and Sachertorte.

Take a Sound of Music Tour

Explore the locations featured in the iconic film "The Sound of Music" in and around Salzburg. Visit the movie's settings, such as the Mirabell Palace and Gardens, Nonnberg Abbey, and Mondsee, while enjoying the beautiful Alpine scenery.