The hills are alive in the Austrian Alps, a particularly scenic corner of the globe. These peaks—with their razor-sharp summits piercing the skies above emerald valleys—beg to be explored on foot, by bike, or skis. In fact, exploring them is a favorite Alpine pastime. But the Austrian Alps offer more than outdoor adventure. You can visit gothic castles and abbeys, marvel at ornate Hapsburg palaces and cathedrals, delve into the chocolate-box cities of Innsbruck and Salzburg, and applaud works by Mozart and Strauss at the Salzburg Festival and Bregenzer Festspiele.
The Austrian Alps are a year-round destination. Skiers and boarders flock to these superb slopes in winter when the Alpine towns seem like holiday cards come to life under a dusting of snow. With the arrival of spring, skis are switched for hiking boots as outdoor enthusiasts hit the trails to admire flower-strewn meadows and verdant valleys, which also offer a high-altitude escape from summer heat.
Austria has an excellent rail network, allowing you to reach the cities and larger towns via some scenic routes. Consider a rail pass if you plan on traveling by train. To reach remote Alpine villages, you’ll need to rent a car, take a bus, or hike or bike the trails (bicycles are available for rent at many rail stations). Cable cars linking the valleys with the summits transport skiers in winter and hikers in summer.
Hiking is one of the most popular activities in the Austrian Alps, but there are a few things to know. There is no universal trail-marking system in Austria, but routes with blue signage are generally the easiest, red trail markings indicate medium difficulty, and black trails are the most difficult. Only attempt routes with signs warning “Nur für Geübte” (only for experienced hikers), if you are a seasoned mountain hiker with adequate gear.
Local Currency Euro (€) | Time Zone CEST (UTC +1) | Country Code +43 | Language(s) German | Attractions 69 | Tours 510 | Reviews 11,637 |
Yes, this mountain chain runs through Austria, as well as six other European countries: France, Switzerland, Italy, Liechtenstein, Germany, and Slovenia. The highest and most famous Austrian peak is Grossglockner, which soars about 12,000 feet (3,800 meters) above sea level and offers vistas over hundreds of surrounding summits.
...MoreThe two main Austrian cities near the Alps are Salzburg and Innsbruck. Salzburg is one of Austria's most attractive cities, with a UNESCO-listed old town stuffed with baroque architecture. It's also the birthplace of Mozart. Innsbruck, set high in the Alps, is a popular jumping-off point for hikers and skiers.
...MoreYes, Austria’s stunning scenery holds its own against the more famous peaks in Switzerland, although Switzerland is often the first choice for lovers of high-octane winter sports. Austria offers similar landscapes but more affordable lodging and dining, plus a more authentic vibe than the chic Swiss slopes and cities.
...MoreInnsbruck’s Kranebitten Airport and Salzburg Airport are the two closest airports to the Austrian Alps. Both are about an hour away from the top ski resorts and hiking hubs. Other options for reaching the peaks include the airports in Linz and Graz, both about two hours from the Austrian Alps.
...MoreThe Austrian Alps are often ranked among the most beautiful parts of Austria, with the historic cities of Salzburg and Innsbruck and the peaks of Grossglockner and Wildspitze. Other postcard-perfect spots include the lakeside village of Hallstatt, the Alpine town of Alpbach, and Bad Gastein spa retreat.
...MoreThe ubiquitous Wiener schnitzel is Austria’s national dish. This thin, breaded veal cutlet is fried until it’s golden and crispy and served with potato or cucumber salad and washed down with Märzen-style beer. Follow your schnitzel with apple strudel, a traditional strudel pastry filled with apples, raisins, cinnamon, and sugar.
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