Europe · country guide
Austria travel guide
3 cities, suggested multi-city routes, transport tips — plus a full planner for every destination.
Austria offers a rich tapestry of imperial history, alpine landscapes, and vibrant musical traditions. Visitors are drawn to its elegant cities, charming villages, and opportunities for outdoor recreation in the Alps.
Each city below links to a full planner: a day-by-day itinerary you can tailor to your dates and pace, a realistic budget breakdown, a packing list, day-trip ideas, a local food guide, and the best months to visit. If you're combining several Austria cities into one trip, the suggested routes group them by region and travel time so you spend less of the trip in transit — and each destination page carries its own accessibility, transport, and neighbourhood detail rather than recycled boilerplate.
Cities in Austria
3 destinations covered. Tap any to get a full itinerary, packing list, budget, and more.
Key regions
This region is defined by its dramatic mountain scenery, offering world-class skiing in winter and hiking and climbing in summer. It's home to numerous alpine villages and stunning natural parks.
Stretching from Linz to Vienna and beyond, this area features rolling hills, vineyards, and historic towns along the Danube River. It's known for its Wachau Valley's picturesque landscapes and wine production.
A picturesque area of lakes and mountains east of Salzburg, this region is famous for its natural beauty, charming spa towns like Hallstatt, and a long history of salt mining.
The capital city, Vienna, is the cultural and political heart of Austria, boasting imperial palaces, world-class museums, and a renowned classical music scene. Surrounding areas offer further historical sites and natural escapes.
Suggested Austria routes
Imperial Cities & Alpine Charm
Begin in the grand capital of Vienna, exploring its imperial palaces and musical heritage. Travel west to Salzburg, the birthplace of Mozart, and then venture into the stunning Salzkammergut lake district to visit the picturesque village of Hallstatt.
Alpine Peaks to Danube Delights
Start in Innsbruck, the 'Capital of the Alps,' for mountain adventures. Continue to Salzburg for its baroque charm and Mozart legacy, then visit the iconic Hallstatt. Conclude in Vienna, immersing yourself in imperial history and vibrant culture.
Eastern Austria Explorer
Focus on the eastern part of the country, starting with Vienna's imperial splendor. Travel south to Graz, known for its Renaissance old town and vibrant culinary scene, and explore the scenic Wachau Valley along the Danube, famous for its vineyards and historic abbeys.
Getting around
Austria's rail network, operated primarily by ÖBB, is efficient and extensive, connecting major cities with high-speed Railjet trains. For shorter distances or more remote areas, regional trains and buses are reliable. Renting a car offers flexibility, especially for exploring the Alps, but can be costly with tolls and parking in cities.
Insider tips
- •Consider purchasing an ÖBB Sparschiene ticket in advance for significant savings on long-distance train journeys.
- •While credit cards are widely accepted, carry some cash (Euros) for smaller shops, markets, or rural areas.
- •Many museums and attractions offer combined tickets or city passes that can provide good value if you plan to visit multiple sites.
- •Book accommodation and popular tours, especially in Hallstatt and Salzburg during peak season, well in advance.
- •Austrian public transport often operates on an honor system for ticket validation; ensure your ticket is validated before boarding or immediately upon boarding regional transport.
- •Tipping is customary but not always mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% for good service is common in restaurants and for taxi drivers.