Austria is a land of breathtaking beauty, where Alpine peaks meet crystal-clear lakes, and charming villages nestle alongside grand imperial cities.
We embarked on an unforgettable road trip across Austria to uncover the country’s most captivating and pretty places.
Whether you dream of snow-capped mountains, baroque palaces, or idyllic villages, Austria has something to take your breath away.
Ready to discover the best of the best? Dive into our 12 Most Beautiful Places in Austria post and let the journey begin.
12 Most Beautiful Places in Austria to Visit
Are you wondering if you should visit Austria and what this country has to offer regarding sights?
Here is our list of the 12 prettiest places in Austria that will take your breath away and have you booking your trip in no time!
1. Hallstatt
Nestled in the Salzkammergut region, Hallstatt is undoubtedly one of Austria’s most beautiful places.
This picturesque fairy tale village in Austria, reflected in the crystal-clear lake, seems frozen in time with its charming 16th-century Alpine houses.
The village’s 16th-century market square, with its delightful cafes and shops, invites leisurely exploration.
Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the world’s oldest salt mine, accessible via a funicular railway that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding Alps, or take a boat ride on Lake Hallstatt.
Hallstatt is a must-visit place in Austria for those seeking postcard-perfect views.
2. Innsbruck
The capital of Tyrol, Innsbruck, is one of the best places in Austria to visit for both urban culture and natural beauty.
Surrounded by the breathtaking Alps, this city offers a unique blend of Imperial architecture and modern attractions.
Visit the Golden Roof, ride the Nordkettenbahnen, a futuristic funicular, for panoramic views, or ski in nearby resorts.
Innsbruck is a year-round destination that showcases Austria’s alpine charm.
3. Wolfgangsee & Schafberg Railroad
In the Salzkammergut region, Wolfgangsee is a pretty place in Austria that offers a perfect lakeside retreat.
The star attraction is the Schafberg Railroad, a historic cog railway that climbs to the summit of Schafberg Mountain. At the top, you’re rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding lakes and Alps that stretch as far as the eye can see.
Back at lake level, enjoy water sports, lakeside dining, or a stroll through the picturesque town of St. Wolfgang.
4. Salzburg Old Town
Salzburg’s Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most beautiful places to visit in Austria.
The imposing Hohensalzburg Fortress, one of the largest medieval castles in Europe, dominates the city’s skyline.
Wander through the Getreidegasse, a narrow shopping street famous for its wrought-iron guild signs, and visit Mozart’s birthplace.
For “The Sound of Music” fans, tours visit filming locations throughout the city and surrounding countryside.
5. Dachstein Mountains
For outdoor enthusiasts, the Dachstein Mountains are one of Austria’s best places to visit. This majestic mountain range offers year-round adventure and breathtaking vistas.
In winter, it’s a paradise for skiers and snowboarders. In summer, hikers and climbers visit its challenging trails via Ferrata routes.
The Dachstein Skywalk, a glass-floored viewing platform suspended over a 250-meter drop, offers heart-stopping views.
For a truly unique experience, venture into the Ice Palace, a frozen wonderland of sculptures and passages carved into the glacier.
6. Gosausee Lake
This hidden alpine gem offers some of Austria’s most stunning mountain reflections.
The crystal-clear waters of Gosausee perfectly mirror the jagged peaks of the Dachstein range, creating a photographer’s paradise.
Surrounding the lake are well-maintained hiking trails catering to all experience levels.
7. Vienna & Schönbrunn Palace
Austria’s capital is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Austria.
Schönbrunn Palace, the former summer residence of the Habsburg rulers, boasts opulent rooms and expansive gardens.
Art lovers shouldn’t miss the Belvedere, home to Gustav Klimt’s famous “The Kiss.” Vienna’s coffeehouse culture is a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage, so relax in one of the historic cafes.
In the evening, attend a classical concert or opera in one of the city’s many stunning venues. Vienna’s blend of history, culture, and modernity makes it a must-visit destination in Austria.
8. Heiligenblut
Often overlooked, Heiligenblut is one of Austria’s prettiest places. This picturesque village in Carinthia is situated at the foot of the Grossglockner, Austria’s highest peak.
Heiligenblut is an ideal base for exploring the Hohe Tauern National Park and accessing the Grossglockner High Alpine Road.
In winter, it transforms into a charming ski resort with slopes suitable for all levels.
For the best views, take the Großglockner Panoramabahn cable car, which offers breathtaking vistas of the surrounding Alps and glaciers.
9. Alpbach
Often referred to as “Austria’s most beautiful village,” Alpbach is a charming gem nestled in the Tyrolean Alps.
This picturesque hamlet is renowned for its perfectly preserved traditional architecture, with wooden chalets adorned with colorful flower boxes in summer.
In winter, Alpbach transforms into a delightful ski resort, offering excellent slopes for all levels of skiers and snowboarders.
10. Grossglockner High Alpine Road
This engineering marvel is one of the most scenic drives in Europe. Winding through the heart of Hohe Tauern National Park, it offers unparalleled views of Austria’s highest peak, Grossglockner.
The road features numerous viewpoints and educational exhibits about the Alpine environment.
Look for marmots and ibexes, and visit the Kaiser-Franz-Josefs-Höhe visitor center for excellent views of the Pasterze Glacier.
11. Wachau Valley, Towns & Castles
This picturesque stretch of the Danube is a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its beauty and wine production.
Cycle or drive through charming villages with terraced vineyards climbing the hillsides. Visit medieval castles like Aggstein castle and Dürnstein, where Richard the Lionheart was once imprisoned.
Take a river cruise to appreciate the valley’s beauty fully, and sample the region’s famous Grüner Veltliner and Riesling wines.
12. Hohe Tauern National Park & Krimml Waterfalls
Austria’s largest national park is a haven for nature lovers. Its diverse wildlife includes golden eagles, ibexes, and bearded vultures.
The park’s crown jewel is Krimml Waterfalls, a three-tiered cascade that’s one of the highest in Europe.
Hike the well-maintained trails for close-up views of the falls, or explore the park’s extensive network of hiking paths that traverse Alpine meadows and pristine forests.
Final Thoughts on Austria’s Most Beautiful Places
Austria’s breathtaking landscapes, charming villages, and historic cities offer a wealth of beauty for every traveler.
From the picturesque lakeside town of Hallstatt to the imperial grandeur of Vienna, from the alpine splendor of Innsbruck to the cultural richness of Salzburg, Austria never fails to inspire and amaze.
Whether you’re drawn to snow-capped mountains, crystal-clear lakes, or Baroque architecture, these 12 destinations showcase Austria’s natural and man-made wonders.
Ready to dive deeper into planning your Austrian adventure? Visit our Austria Travel Blog for insider tips, detailed itineraries, and local recommendations to help you make the most of your trip to this stunning Alpine nation.
