Austria has occupied the top place in the list of one of the most beautiful countries in Europe. Here are the top ten sites/places to visit! Read Here!
10 places to visit in Austria
Austria is the epitome of natural beauty, thanks to its crystal-clear lakes, stunning alpine peaks, and lush green landscapes. The German-speaking country in the middle of Europe attracts millions of people from different countries. Although Austria has hundreds of places to see, we recommend these ten sites. Read on!
1. Schloss Hellbrunn
Hellbrunn is the summer residence of the Salzburg archbishop. The seemingly inconspicuous building hides many secrets. For example, the only active amusing fountains in the world that suddenly spray water on passers-by cause delight. It also has a shady park with statues of unicorns and other mythical creatures.
2. Schonbrunn Palace
Schonbrunn is the summer residence of the Austrian emperors, built by analogy with the French Versailles. Schonbrunn is considered one of the most beautiful palace and park complexes in Europe. The monarchs of Austria-Hungary lived here, Napoleon visited twice, and in 1961 Khrushchev and Kennedy met.
3. Vienna Old Town
The Old Town is the center of Vienna and has preserved the architecture and layout of past centuries. Narrow cobbled streets, small coffee houses, cozy squares, and cathedrals are places that increase the charm of the Old Town. If you find yourself in Vienna, one of the first things to do is head to the Old Town.
4. Hochosterwitz Castle
Hochosterwitz is a medieval castle in the south of Austria and one of the most beautiful castles in the whole country. Its history began in the 9th century when the world was not as humane as now. Hochosterwitz has four rows of massive stone walls with towers. The closer to the castle, the stronger the walls.
5. Graz
Graz is the second-largest city in Austria, and it has energy and audacity to it. There are many students, and life is seething here. Here they dared to break the architectural paradise of past centuries and fit ultra-modern buildings into the landscape.
However, the historical center of Graz is the best to visit. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site. There are many significant historical monuments in Graz, such as the late Gothic cathedral, a mausoleum with the ashes of Emperor Ferdinand II, an arsenal museum with a giant collection of historical weapons.
6. Krimml Waterfall
Krimml is a cascade of three waterfalls and 13 nine-story buildings, which drops tons of water every second. The sound of the waterfall drowns out your voice, and a rainbow appears in the spray now and then. Hiking trails are laid along the waterfall, along which you can climb to the source of the Krimml.
Moreover, there are many viewing points and places for recreation along the way, and the route runs through forests with tall pines and magic ferns. The waterfall is open to the public only from April to October. At other times, the passage to it is closed.
7. Bad Ischl
Bad Ischl is a mountain resort in the Alps, in the federal state of Upper Austria. Here is the imperial villa of the last emperor of Austria-Hungary, Franz Joseph. The emperor spent a lot of time here, preferring mountain landscapes and nature to Viennese chic and pomposity.
Bad Ischl attracts tourists with ski slopes and thermal springs. Here you can take a break from the bustle of the city and gain strength, enjoy the beauty of the Alps and local delicacies. The lift to Mount Katrin is open all year round, so you can effortlessly get to the top and walk along the mountain paths.
8. Bad Gastein’s Bridge
Adrenaline and the pounding of the heart in the chest, fear, and delight are what you feel when you step on the bridge in Bad Gastein. It is located in the Alps, at an altitude of 2,300 meters. The bridge is mobile, and it sways with you during the wind. You feel like a tightrope walker walking above the clouds.
9. Fortress Hohensalzburg
Salzburg’s symbol is the largest fortress in Europe, Hohensalzburg, founded in 1077. The fort is open to visitors all year round, and it is worth visiting for the sake of the medieval princely chambers, the fortress museum, and the luxurious “golden hall.” You can climb both on foot and by cable railway.
10. Aqua Dome
If you have not been to thermal complexes, you have not been to Austria. The Aquadom baths are one of the best in Austria. It is in the heart of the Otztal Tyrol, near one of the most popular ski resorts in Solden. It is delightful to relax in it on a frosty evening.
Final Words
Austria is a very picturesque country. The sights of Austria attract millions of tourists every year. We tried to highlight the most striking and natural sites with historical places to visit with your family or friends. Until Next Time!
- Article based on personal opinion, experience and research.
- Photos from Unsplash & canva.