Vienna

Vienna is a city that sticks in the mind of visitors from North America and Down Under. It’s a heady of beautiful buildings, galleries, museums and cultural activities. Vienna’s imperial palaces and grand squares are everything a majestic Eurpoean city should be and there’s a thriving contemporary art scene.

Fortunately it’s not all about soaking up culture, there’s a buzzing bar and club life here, too. Expect lots of al fresco drinking and eating.

Plus, Vienna’s surrounded by the Wienerwald (Vienna Woods) so you can escape from humans if the urge hits you.

 

Salzburg

Salzburg is undeniably crammed full of tourists and you can’t escape the Mozart and Sound of Music tack. However, what has the potential to make Salzburg a tourist destination to avoid doesn’t and actually, it’s a must see.

Salzburg is a beautiful town: the old town (alstadt) is a Unesco world heritage site, overlooked by the impressive Hohensalzburg Fortress, which has an unbeatable view of the city. Plus, Salzburg has an awesome, awesome beer hall and makes amazing cakes.

 

Alps

The Austrian Alps might not be as famous as the neighbouring Swiss Alps, but don’t let that fool you, the mountains here are just as big and just as impressive.

Austria has some of the planet’s best skiing and snowboarding and some of the most sophisticated facilities going around. Outside of the ski season there’s the chance for walking, climbing and cycling.

The hills may or may not be alive with the sound of music, but they’re certainly alive with the sound of Austrians and visitors alike getting active in the fresh air.

 

Graz

Arnie Schwarzenegger hails from Graz, but don’t hold that against this characterful little city. Austria’s second largest city is studded with contemporary architectural gems including the futuristic Kunsthaus (Museum of Contemporary Art), the sharp edged Stadthalle (civic hall) and the amphitheatre styled island on the river Mur.

And with a 40,000 strong student population Graz boasts a youthful vibe and nightlife to match.

 

Linz

If you’ve had your fill of Old World grandeur then Linz is the antidote. Austria’s hippest city, you’ll find trendy bars galore in the Altstadt (old town), cool coffee shops, cutting-edge art exhibitions and live music venues.

Linz is worth a visit to see another side of Austria.