When you travel to Austria, you will discover a country rich in history and filled with tradition, activities, and above all, some of the most beautiful places on Earth. Along with the neighboring country of Switzerland, Austria is one of Europe’s winter sports capitals. Austria however, is as popular during the summer months as it is during the winter. Tourists flock to Austria to tour its historic cities and quaint villages as well as to take in the breathtaking Alpine scenery. Although it would be wonderful to tour every inch of this incredible country, unless you live there, your time will be limited. However long or short your visit may be, there are some places that you should definitely make time to see while you’re there.
Melk Abbey
Among the world’s most famous monasteries, Melk Abbey sits high on a cliff overlooking the Danube River. This peaceful Benedictine abbey was once the castle of Leopold II and was given to the monks who made it into a tranquil place of learning in 1089. The Abbey is among the most exquisite examples of Baroque architecture. It also reflects the flourishing liberal and musical arts of the time.
Hohensalzburg Castle
Salzburg castle is not only among Europe’s largest medieval castles, but one of the most well preserved as well. Located strategically at the peak of Festungsberg Mountain, this mighty fortress overlooks the city of Salzburg and adds a touch of magic to its beautiful skyline. One of Austria’s top tourist attractions, the castle is a truly sunning example of medieval architecture and a fitting representative of Salzburg’s heart.
Vienna State Opera
This stunning architectural structure graces the center of Austria’s capital and is perhaps the world’s most celebrated opera houses and is home to one of the best orchestras in the world. While visiting Vienna, you may want to history’s most famous ballets or operas that are available in both modern versions as well as classical.
Innsbruck Altstadt
Being surrounded by the snowcapped peaks of the Alps, the area of Innsbruck offers not only a busting urban center, bur pristine Alpine landscapes as well. Altstadt, the medieval portion of Innsbruck , give you the feeling of stepping back in time. Its many shops and unique architecture are unlike any other place in the world. One of Altstadt’s most famous landmarks is the Golden Roof. The structure was built as a home for the Roman Emperor Miximilian I and thousands of gilded copper tiles were used to decorate it, making it appear to be pure gold.
Grossclockner Alpine Road
A trip to Austria wouldn’t be complete without taking in the best of the breathtaking Alpine scenery. The perfect way experience the best the Alps have to offer is a trip up the Grossglockner Alpine Road, which takes you to the Kaiser Franz Josefs Hohe visitor Center. The road is only open from May to October, but these are the best months to see the Alps in all their glory.
Austria has too many attractions to list in one place, but rest assured that no matter where you travel in this beautiful country, you’ll be astounded by its beauty, charm, and deep sense of history.
