Austria
This month, we’re heading to the heart of Europe to one of my favorite places in the world: Austria. It truly feels like stepping into a fairytale, with grand imperial cities, alpine villages, and storybook lakes around every corner. Austria blends culture, history, music, and breathtaking scenery in a way that’s both effortless and unforgettable. If you’re dreaming of classical concerts, mountain views, or cozy café moments, Austria delivers—and I hope this spotlight inspires you to explore it for yourself. Here’s how to experience it city by city...
Vienna: imperial elegance & cultural icons
Austria’s capital is refined, artistic, and rich with history.
things to see & do
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Tour Schönbrunn Palace, the former summer residence of the Habsburgs
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Visit St. Stephen’s Cathedral and climb the tower for panoramic city views
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Attend a classical music concert or Opera (Mozart and Strauss live on here!)
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Explore the MuseumsQuartier for art, history, and modern culture
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Attend morning exercise at the Spanish Riding School to view the famous Lipizzaner Stalions
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browse the gourmet food stalls at the mile long Naschmarkt
easy day trips from vienna
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Wachau Valley – Danube River cruises, vineyards, and charming towns
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Bratislava, Slovakia – Just one hour away
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Melk Abbey – A stunning Benedictine abbey overlooking the Danube
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Visit one of the many salt mines in the area
Salzburg: music, mountains & storybook charm
Best known as Mozart’s birthplace and the setting for The Sound of Music, Salzburg is pure magic.
things to see & do
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Walk through Salzburg’s Old Town (a UNESCO World Heritage Site)
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Visit Hohensalzburg Fortress
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Tour Mozart’s Birthplace
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Take a Sound of Music tour
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Wander Mirabell Gardens
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Walk through the grounds of St. Peter's Abbey
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Explore the trick fountains at Schloss Hellbrunn
easy day trips from salzburg
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Hallstatt – One of Europe’s most picturesque lakeside villages
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Lake Wolfgang (Wolfgangsee) – Perfect for boating and mountain views
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Berchtesgaden, Germany – Alpine scenery and historic sites just over the border
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Berchtesgaden (Eagle’s Nest) - Hitler's mountain retreat
Innsbruck: alpine adventure meets old-world charm
Nestled in the Alps, Innsbruck is ideal for travelers who love scenery and outdoor experiences.
things to see & do
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Stroll through the colorful Old Town
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See the iconic Golden Roof (Goldenes Dachl)
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Ride the Nordkette cable car straight from the city into the mountains
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Visit Ambras Castle for art and history
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Enjoy hiking, skiing, or simply soaking in the mountain views
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View the famous emperor's tomb at Court Church
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Wander through the grounds of Swarovski Crystal Worlds
easy day trips from innsbruck
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Seefeld Plateau – Alpine meadows and scenic trails
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Neuschwanstein Castle (Germany) – The real-life inspiration for Disney castles
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Stubai Glacier – Snow and views nearly year-round
When to visit
Austria is truly a destination for every season, each one offering its own kind of magic!
spring (april–june)
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Fewer crowds and blooming gardens
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Ideal for city sightseeing and countryside day trips
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Comfortable temperatures for walking tours
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summer (july–september)
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Best time for alpine hiking, lake visits, and outdoor festivals
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Longer daylight hours and lively café culture
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Great for combining cities with scenic rail journeys
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Experience the fall cattle procession known as Almabtrieb
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fall (october–november)
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Stunning autumn colors in the Alps and wine regions
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Harvest season in the Wachau Valley
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Fewer tourists and a more relaxed pace
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winter (december–march)
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Magical Christmas markets in Vienna, Salzburg, and Innsbruck
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Prime ski season in alpine regions
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Cozy, festive atmosphere with snow-dusted towns and castles
Plan your adventure!
If Austria has been calling your name—or if you’d like help deciding the best season for your travel style—I’d love
to help you design the perfect itinerary with hotels, rail travel, tours, and unforgettable day trips. Contact me
today to start planning your unforgettable journey!​