HEAVEN FOR OUTDOOR ENTHOUSIASTS
Austria is one of our favorite countries in Europe for scenic road trips, mountain adventures, beautiful hikes, and charming cities. From the dramatic alpine landscapes of Salzburg and Tirol to the crystal-clear lakes of Vorarlberg, the glaciers and high mountain roads of Carinthia, and the elegant streets of Vienna, Austria has such an incredible variety of places to explore.
On this page, you’ll find all of our Austria travel guides in one place, including detailed hiking guides, road trip inspiration, city guides, family-friendly tips, unique stays, and practical travel advice. Whether you’re planning to hike to Tappenkarsee, visit Krimml Waterfalls, relax at Aqua Dome in Tirol, or spend a few days exploring Vienna, these guides will help you plan your trip.
Austria is a destination we keep coming back to because it combines everything we love: epic mountain views, peaceful alpine lakes, scenic drives, cozy mountain huts, impressive gorges, family-friendly adventures, and beautiful places to stay.
AUSTRIA TRAVEL GUIDES
CARINTHIA
SALZBURG
The Perfect Salzburg 1 Week Travel Guide
How To Visit The Grossglockner High Alpine Road In Austria – Tips & Epic Viewpoints
Visiting Sigmund Thun Klamm – A Complete Guide to Kaprun’s Most Scenic Gorge
Visiting Krimml Waterfalls – A Complete Guide to Austria’s Tallest Waterfalls
The 10 Very Best Hikes In Salzburg In Austria – Including Map & Tips
Visiting Liechtensteinklamm – A Complete Guide to Austria’s Most Impressive Gorge
Hiking from Hofpürgl Hut to Sulzenalm – A Scenic Alpine Trail in Filzmoos, Austria
Hiking to Tappenkarsee – A Stunning Alpine Lake Trail in Salzburg, Austria
Hiking to Hochkeil – A Scenic Summit Trail in Salzburg’s Mountains
Leitenkammerklamm to Zittauer Hut Hike
Arthurhaus to Erichhütte Hike In Hochkönig
8 Top Things To Do In Hohe Tauern National Park
SALZKAMMERGUT
TIROL
Lake Seebensee & Lake Drachensee Hike in Ehrwald, Austria
9 x Very Best Things To Do In Ehrwald
Lake Plansee In Austria – How To Hike To The Best Viewpoint
Where To Stay in Tirol – Aqua Dome
VIENNA
The Most Beautiful Museums in Vienna
Top Things to do in Vienna with Toddlers during Winter
The 17 Most Beautiful Places In Vienna (Map Included)
VORARLBERG
How to Hike to Körbersee in Vorarlberg – Everything You Need to Know
Gehrengrat Ridge Hike – Epic Trail from Formarinsee to Spullersee in Vorarlberg
Hiking at Lünersee – Complete Guide to Vorarlberg’s Most Beautiful Alpine Lake
OUR FAVORITE ACCOMMODATIONS IN AUSTRIA
Hotel Lech Arlberg – Vorarlberg
We based ourselves at Hotel Lech Arlberg, a beautiful alpine retreat that perfectly blends cozy mountain charm with modern comfort.
Located in the heart of Lech, this hotel made an ideal base for our hiking adventures. After long days on the trail, we loved coming back to its welcoming atmosphere, relaxing in the wellness area, and enjoying hearty Austrian meals prepared with local ingredients.
Aqua Dome – Tirol
A stay at Aqua Dome in Tirol is the perfect way to add a little luxury and relaxation to your Austria trip. Surrounded by the mountains of the Ötztal Valley, this thermal spa hotel is known for its futuristic outdoor pools, warm mineral-rich water, and incredible alpine views.
It’s especially perfect after a few days of hiking or exploring, when you can soak in the thermal baths, enjoy the sauna world, and fully unwind while still being surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery.
Mei Puite – Ehrwald
During our time in the region we stayed at this modern appartement. It had two bedrooms and a balcony with a view over the majestic Zugspitze and the other nearby mountains.
Bergresort Zugspitze Ehrwald by ALPS RESORTS – Ehrwald
This luxury 4 star resort has an outdoor pool, a wellness and a fitness centre. All rooms come with a mountain view.
Honestly the perfect hotel for a romantic holiday in the mountains where you just want to relax when coming back from a hike.
Hotel Flatscher – Salzburger region
During our road trip around the Salzburger region we based ourselves in Stuhlfelden, a very small town next to Mittersill and perfect to discover the hikes located in the Hohe Tauern National Park!
We stayed at Hotel Flatscher, a cute little 3 star family run hotel that also offers dinner at a fair price.
Berghotel Alpenklang – Salzburger region
During our road trip around the Salzburger region we stayed in the valley of Wagrain at the 4 star Berghotel Alpenklang.
A family run hotel where both breakfast and dinner are included and a beautiful terrace with a view over the valley and surrounding mountains.
We got a family room so César had his own separate bedroom which is a blessing for a good night’s sleep.
The Leo Grand – Vienna
The Leo Grand is a fabulous choice when visiting Vienna. It’s right in the city center (1st district), so you can walk pretty much everywhere.
THE BEST TIME TO VISIT AUSTRIA
Visiting Austria offers distinct experiences each season.
Spring (March to May) is ideal for city tours and blooming landscapes.
Summer (June to August) brings perfect weather for hiking and festivals.
Autumn (September to November) showcases colorful foliage, especially in the wine regions.
Winter (December to February) transforms Austria into a winter wonderland, ideal for Christmas markets and skiing in the Alps.
Each season has its unique charm, offering a range of activities suited to different interests.
WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN TRAVELING TO AUSTRIA
Language – In Austria, the official language is German, spoken in its own distinct Austrian variant. Besides German, several minority languages are recognized, including Slovene, Croatian, and Hungarian, primarily in certain regions. Additionally, English is widely understood, especially in tourist areas and among the younger population, making it relatively easy for English-speaking visitors to communicate.
Currency – The official currency in Austria is EUR (€).
Credit Cards & ATM’s – In Austria, credit cards are widely accepted, especially in urban areas, at hotels, restaurants, and many shops. ATMs are readily available across cities and towns, making it convenient to withdraw cash. However, it’s advisable to carry some cash, particularly in rural areas or at smaller establishments, where card payments might not always be accepted.
Safety – Austria is renowned for its high safety standards, making it one of the safest countries in the world for travelers. The crime rate is low, and public areas, including transportation systems, are secure and well-maintained. Visitors should still exercise the usual precautions, such as keeping an eye on personal belongings and staying aware of their surroundings, especially in crowded tourist spots. Emergency services are efficient and responsive, ensuring a safe environment for both residents and tourists.
Plugs – In Austria, the standard voltage is 230V with a frequency of 50Hz. Travelers should be prepared to use plug types F and C, which are the two-pronged plugs commonly used throughout Europe.
TIPS FOR YOUR FIRST VISIT TO AUSTRIA
Toll Roads – In Austria, the use of motorways and expressways requires a vignette, a form of toll sticker that must be affixed to the vehicle’s windshield. These vignettes can be purchased for varying durations, from short-term (10 days) to annual passes, catering to both short-term visitors and residents. Additionally, certain sections, such as mountain passes and tunnels, may require the payment of an extra toll, independent of the vignette. This toll system is crucial for the maintenance and development of Austria’s road infrastructure.
Hiking etiquette – Firstly, always give right of way to hikers ascending the trail, as it’s generally more challenging to navigate uphill. Secondly, maintain a respectful distance from wildlife and livestock you may encounter. Lastly, ensure you’re well-prepared for the variable weather conditions in the mountains by carrying appropriate gear, including trekking poles for stability and support, especially on steep or challenging sections of the trail.
Public Transport – Austria boasts an efficient and comprehensive public transport network, including trains, trams, buses, and U-Bahn (subway) systems, particularly in Vienna. The ÖBB (Austrian Federal Railways) connects major cities and regions, offering scenic routes through the countryside. Urban areas enjoy frequent and reliable tram and bus services, making it convenient for residents and tourists to navigate cities and access attractions.
🚘 RENTING A CAR IN AUSTRIA
When it comes to choosing a rental car company things can get a little confusing cause there’s a lot of companies out there ready to rip you off.
Horror Story: In South Africa the rental car company that I booked with actually copied my credit card details and 1 day later my card was blocked. So there I was, in the middle of South Africa and without a credit card. Luckily we would switch to a different company the next day for the further duration of our trip but you really don’t want this to happen on your holiday.
You also don’t want any hidden costs added to your bill.
A good rental car company should include the following in your rental price: unlimited mileage and a fair fuel arrangement, third-party insurance of at least €7.5 million, damage insurance, theft insurance, towing cost if your car breaks down and cancel or change your reservation without any hassle.
For my road trips I always prefer booking with SunnyCars. Here you can already rent a car for as little as €27 per day and every single cost is included upon check out. Oh, and all of the things that I mentioned above that should be included are also included with them!
💡 TIP – Sometimes the local rental company will try to make you pay for additional insurance. This is in no way necessary cause SunnyCars offers you full coverage.
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