You’d be forgiven for mistaking that you’ve been transported in setting straight out of your favorite book. Austria’s exceptionally striking natural beauty and deep rooted culture makes it one of the most fascinating European destinations. Other than skiing and hiking, the national boasts of a very strong music heritage, evident in the compositions of Mozart and the legacy of illustrious Von Trapp clan (whose tale featured in the popular film The Sound of Music). It’s near impossible to pick the best places from a generous bouquet of several amazing destinations. However, our experts snooped around and compiled a list of the 10 must visit destinations in Austria.
1. Innsbruck
Innsbruck literally means “bridge above the inn”, and boy are there inns everywhere in this year-round tourist town. Globally acclaimed for being a winter sports hub (it hosted the Winter Olympics twice in 1964 and 1976), Innsbruck goes beyond its skiing identity. The place is dotted with lots of picturesque cathedrals (Hofkirche and Schloss Ambras) and the famous Bell Museum, where you can relive bell-making history dating back a good 400 years
2Salzburg
Located in the Austrian-German border, Salzburg is most notable as Mozart’s birthplace. Visitors often come here to experience the town’s rich musical legacy. From hill sprinkled medieval forts to scenic old town streets to the phenomenally beautiful Alpine landscape, there’s plenty of natural eye-candy here. Relive moments from “The Sound of Music” by visiting the 17 th -century Baqoque Mirabell Palace and Gardens along with the Von Trapp home (now converted into a hotel). Don’t forget to visit Mozart’ reconstructed home.
3Wachau
Wachau is a much sought after tourist hot spot in Austria’s southern region. Other than succulent wine and exotic apricots, Wachau is famous as the area where Duke Leopold V held reigning British King, Richard captive in the 12 th century. The gorgeous Benedictine abbey is located in Melk town, while over 500 heritage monuments grace the Wachau Valley.
4Salzkammergut
Salzkammergut is a poetically beautifully resort town that covers a strip of sparkling lakes, emerald hills and fairy-tale like mountain-sides. While Hallstatt and St. Wolfgang are dripping with old-worldly romance, the entire region is sought after by sunbathers and visitors seeking pampering spa sessions. It’s common to spot relaxed vacationers ports traditional resort wear here.
5Vienna
Vienna brings to mind captivating images of waltzes, museums, classical composers and old-worldly cafes. Hosting more than 200 ball events annually, the Austrian capital is also celebrated for its collection of the royal imperial jewelry (Hofburg) the Kinsthistorisches (an art museum displaying the works of erstwhile masters). Much like the rest of Austria, Veinna is sheer poetry.
