Austria is known for its beautiful natural landscapes as well as its sophisticated urban areas. Whether you love the idea of swimming in its alpine lakes or the idea of shopping in Vienna, Austria has something for you.
Explore these five attractions when you come to Austria:
This museum of fine art and history is home to Rubens masterpieces, Rembrandt’s Self Portrait, Raphael’s Madonna in the Meadow and more. It is housed in an amazing palatial building in Vienna, and it opened in 1891. The building that houses the museum was commissioned by the emperor, which explains its lavish décor: marble, stucco ornamentation as well as gold-leaf.
The Great Outdoors
Those who come to Austria often know of its deeply carved valleys, its rocky mountain flanks and its beautiful lakes. If you have not yet visited, you must plan to take a hike or rent mountain bikes, as these are the best ways to reach the area’s isolated alpine meadows.
Or, take a cable car or chairlift up; during winter, these are the best way to reach the slopes, too.
Architectural Feats
Austria is well known for the many baroque church interiors and historic palaces that dot the city. When you come, visit Schloss Belvedere to see its Gothic masterpieces, like Stephansdom.
However, you might be surprised to note that Austria is also a country with some impressive contemporary architectural pieces, as well.
Visit Vienna’s Museums Quartier, or go to see Ars Electronica in Linz, and you will note this more contemporary facet of the country. A stroll alongside the illuminated Kunsthaus Graz will leave you amazed, mouth open in wonder.
Pubs and Coffee Houses
A trip to Austria would not be complete without mention of its wonderful food and coffee house experiences, either. In Vienna, head to the traditional coffee houses that can be found all around. These are perfect the perfect way to take in the city’s homespun atmosphere.
Or, take in a meal at a traditional Beisln (which is a bistro pub) where you find delicious goulash and among other treats.
Wine Regions
In regions like the Waldviertel, the Danube Valley and southern Styria you will find some fantastic wines among their picturesque landscapes.
And there are a number of traditional Heurigen (or wine taverns) all around. These are wonderful places to experience the local specialties, like their gourmet wines.
