What is Austria?
Austria is a small landlocked country in the heart of Europe Bordered by Germany, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Slovenia, Italy, and Switzerland, Austria is a beautiful, vibrant country with a rich history and culture. With Vienna, the capital, as its most populous city, Austria is a great place for visitors to explore, experience, and enjoy.
The official language in Austria is German, however, the country also recognizes several other languages, including Slovenian, Croatian, Hungarian, and Czech. Though Austria has seen a great deal of change since the end of WWI and WWII, it still maintains a strong sense of cultural identity and tradition.
Austria is known for its incredible music, art, architecture, and cuisine. Visitors can also spend days exploring the countryside, visiting castles, and experiencing the culture of this amazing country. Austria is also home to some of the most striking and unique natural landscapes in Europe, including the mighty Alps and the Danube River.
The Five Best Examples of Austria
1. Vienna: Vienna is the city at the heart of Austria and the home to many of its most famous sights. Visitors can explore the city’s incredible baroque architecture, take in its many cultural attractions and museums, and sample the delicious food and beverage offerings. The city was once the capital of the long-gone Austro-Hungarian Empire and today offers a wealth of historic and cultural experiences for visitors.
2. Schonbrunn Palace: Schonbrunn Palace is a stunning baroque landmark located in Vienna and is one of the most recognisable Austrian landmarks. Built in the 18th century, it was the palace of the Habsburg dynasty and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. At this intriguing palace, visitors can explore the Palace Gardens, the Imperial Carriage Collection, and the Imperial Apartments.
3. Salzburg: The birthplace of Mozart and the location of the famous Sound of Music movie, Salzburg is a city that visitors cannot miss. With its incredible architecture, colourful markets, and plethora of cultural experiences, Salzburg is a beautiful city that offers something for everyone. From its quaint winding streets to its majestic castle and Baroque churches, Salzburg is one of the most beautiful cities in Austria.
4. The Sound of Music Trail: For any fan of the iconic movie, The Sound of Music, the Sound of Music Trail is a must-do. Travel the same routes as the von Trapps and explore the town of Mondsee and the lakeside town of Hallstatt. Visit the sites from the movie such as the Palace Gardens in Salzburg, St. Gilgen and St. Wolfgang in the Salzkammergut, and Mirabell Palace.
5. The Alps: Austria is home to some of Europe’s most stunning mountain ranges, the Alps. From the Tyrolean Alps to the Karwendel–the Northern Limestone Alps, the Austrian Alps provide visitors with some incredible experiences. Whether it’s skiing in some of the world’s top ski resorts or hiking along beautiful trails, the Austrian Alps provide visitors with a wealth of activities and experiences.