Quick answer: Austria’s highlights are imperial Vienna, Mozart’s Salzburg, the fairy-tale lakeside village of Hallstatt, and the Alpine city of Innsbruck.
Austria blends Habsburg grandeur with storybook Alpine scenery. Here’s the essential list from palaces to mountain lakes.
Top things to do in Austria
| Attraction | Why go |
|---|---|
| Vienna | Schönbrunn Palace, the Hofburg, St Stephen’s and coffee houses. |
| Salzburg | Mozart’s baroque city — Hohensalzburg fortress and Sound of Music sights. |
| Hallstatt | The world-famous lakeside village reflected in the Dachstein peaks. |
| Innsbruck | Alpine capital with the Golden Roof and ski jumps above town. |
| Wachau Valley | Danube vineyards and Melk’s baroque abbey. |
| Grossglockner Road | High-alpine panoramic drive past Austria’s tallest peak. |
| Salzkammergut | Lake district of turquoise water and mountains. |
| Zell am See | Lake-and-glacier resort for summer and winter alike. |
How to plan your Austria trip
Vienna and Salzburg are linked by fast trains (2.5 hrs); add Hallstatt and the Salzkammergut as a scenic detour. Rent a car for the Grossglockner and lake district.
Best time to visit
May–June and September–October for cities and hiking; December for Christmas markets; winter for skiing.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many days do you need in Austria?
Five to seven days covers Vienna, Salzburg and Hallstatt; add more for the Alps and lakes.
What is Austria most famous for?
Vienna’s imperial palaces and music, Salzburg and Mozart, Alpine scenery and Hallstatt.
Is Hallstatt worth visiting?
Yes — it’s stunning, but day-trippers crowd it midday; stay overnight or arrive early for the magic.
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Written by
John Morrison is the founder and lead travel writer at Packzup. Over the past decade he has explored destinations across Africa, the Americas, Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and Oceania — always self-funded, never on a press trip.