Though Austria is one of the tiniest nations in Europe, it packs a lot of things to see and do within its borders. From grand castles to impressive landscapes, Austria is a real jewel on a continent that already boasts a large array of endearing iconic sights. Like many vacation destinations, summer is a particularly inviting time to explore this dazzling country. The lure of Austria’s temperate months brings adventurers who long to lace up hiking boots or hop on a bicycle and meander an almost fairytale-like terrain. If you have this charming European country on your travel radar, then you must scroll down to see the best things to do over the summer holidays in Austria.
1. Stand in awe of the Vienna Schönbrunn Palace
Showcasing opulent beauty around every corner is Vienna Schönbrunn Palace. Found in Vienna, this stunning and massive structure from the 1700s was the central summer abode of the Habsburg rulers - one of the most significant and esteemed royal houses in the European continent. It is a UNESCO heritage site and displays a rich and monumental history. One of its many standouts is the display of sensational Baroque architectural design. The expansive gardens are the go-to spot to enjoy a leisurely stroll during summertime.
Vienna Schönbrunn Palace Skip-the-Line Guided Walking Tour - Klook
Duration: 2hrsDuration
2. Take a tour of the bewitching Esterházy Palace in Burgenland (from USD 20.0)
Erected in the late-13th century, Esterházy Palace in Burgenland is a treasure on Austria’s landscape. A fantastic baroque residence of royal excellence, this structure houses a museum that displays the intriguing private collections of the prominent Esterházy dynasty. Guests can study colorful frescoes, elaborate murals, and rich tapestries from the 18th century. The impeccably manicured gardens offer a must-see glimpse into Austria’s past regal elite Boasting the very best acoustics, this palace is often the site of wonderful music as well as art and cultural events.
Esterhazy Palace Guided Tour
Duration: 1 hour
3. Explore the Melk Abbey and cruise the Danube River (from USD 556.0)
Set on a rugged hill overlooking the picturesque town of Melk in Lower Austria is the beautifully ornate Melk Abbey. Awash in antiquated beauty, the Benedictine monastery offers spectacular views of the mighty Danube River and is a perfect attraction for history lovers and architecture buffs alike. Summer is also a great time to enjoy a Danube River cruise while drinking in the most picture-perfect section of this famed body of water - from Spitz to Melk. The lovely medieval town of Dürnstein — a terrific UNESCO World Heritage Site — is also a delightful stop, where you can savor yummy local chocolates and imbibe flavorful schnapps.
Private Wachau Valley and Melk Abbey Tour from Vienna
Duration: 8 to 9 hours
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4. Experience the spectacular beauty of Austria's Wachau Valley and sample the country's best wine (from USD 215.79)
Wachau Valley is Austria’s central wine region so it is a top place to visit for wine enthusiasts. Robust, dry and fruity regional wines along with full-bodied schnapps libations are the drink of choice in this lush portion of Austria that comprises of charming villages and Instagram-worthy landscapes. The warm weather is a splendid time to investigate the area’s stellar vineyards and relish serene views of the nearby Danube River. The Wachau Valley also offers sights of not only the dramatic river valley and a variety of beautifully maintained vineyards but grand fortresses and age-old monasteries.
From Vienna: Wachau Valley Day Tour with Wine Tasting
Duration: 9.0 hour
5. Explore the salt mines and underground lakes of Salzburg (from USD 61.51)
If you’re looking to do something out of the ordinary this summer, then exploring the oldest active salt mine is the perfect activity for you. In existence as far back as the 1500s, this enticing salt mine features a collection of fun miners’ slides that participants can slide down, a fantastic subterranean salt lake, and a brilliantly illuminated grotto. This popular attraction provides family-friendly tours, where guests hop aboard a train that travels into the earth’s depths and follows the paths of hardworking miners.
Salzburg: Berchtesgaden Salt Mines and Underground Boat Ride
Duration: 4.0 hour
6. Splash and get sprayed in the tricky water fountains of Hellbrunn Palace in Salzburg (from USD 45.54)
The ideal summer diversion in Austria is an excursion to the incomparable Hellbrunn Palace in Salzburg. A vast palatial-style villa boasting early Baroque charm, this structure was constructed in the 1600s and showcases famed water features in the palace’s wide-ranging gardens. Step back in time and experience the captivating grottoes, various sparkling water features, and fanciful geysers that entertained locals 400 years ago. This attraction is an unforgettable escape on a warm summer afternoon.
Salzburg: Boat Ride to Hellbrunn and Palace Visit
Duration: 2.5 hour
7. Marvel at the wonder of Kaprun Dam (from USD 32.19)
Your jaw will drop at the sight of Kaprun Reservoir Dam. Located in the Salzburg region, this elevated reservoir tucked away in mountainous terrain is an incredible feat of engineering and shouldn’t be missed. Situated at an elevation of 6,706 feet (2,044 meters), this reservoir attracts hiking enthusiasts and is a tranquil destination to enjoy spectacular natural vistas. Kaprun Dam provides an interesting and interactive on-site exhibition that explains how electricity is generated with the assistance of water.
Kaprun: High Mountain Reservoir Experience with Dam Tour
8. Discover Innusbruck - a city known for its imperial and modern architecture (from USD 36.44)
Nestled in the magnificent Alps, Innsbruck is known primarily as a top-notch place to enjoy winter sports. So, it’s easy to overlook the amazing architecture of this darling city in western Austria. Luckily summertime is a great opportunity to see what you’ve been missing. The mild weather days during the summer months makes taking a city tour a must-do activity. Revel in Innsbruck’s historic old town and check out the Goldenes Dachl - a notable structure with lovely Gothic balconies. Other city highlights include the beautiful Innsbruck Cathedral and the bustling Maria-Theresien-Straße.
Innsbruck: Classic City Highlights Tour
Duration: 1.5 hour
9. Take a canoe ride from Vienna to Bratislava via the Danube River (from USD 142.0)
See the Danube River from a different perspective on a relaxed canoe trip down the famed waterway. What could be a better summery escape than paddling the incredible Danube River and seeing exceptional sights along the way? Admire the eerie Devil Castle - a medieval structure of Gothic architecture. Catch glimpses of birdlife like the European Kingfisher — one of Europe’s most favored and well-known avians — and the Great White Pelican — one of nature’s biggest birds. Be amused by whimsical local wildlife, and much more.
Vienna to Bratislava Danube Canoe Tour, Round-Trip Transport
Duration: 4 to 6 hours
10. Enjoy a bird's-eye view while paragliding over Austria's Werfenweng Mt Bischling (from USD 179.0)
With this country boasting compelling mountainous sights such as Hochkönig, Dachstein, and Tennengebirge, why not take an adrenaline-pumping flight over them in a once-in-a-lifetime paragliding adventure. It’s the ultimate heart-stopping rush above mind-blowing terrain outside of Salzburg. Participants can expect to reach heights as high as 12,000 feet (3,658 meters) - higher than some mountain ranges at times. Exhilarating cable car rides deliver you to the towering point of departure.
Tandem Paragliding Werfenweng Mt Bischling
Duration: 90 to 120 minutes
Austria's fabulous summer fun
Austria offers no shortage of outdoor and urban pursuits during summertime. One day you’re hiking in alpine gorgeousness near Salzburg and the next day, you’re wandering around a fanciful castle in Vienna. Whether you choose to explore the grandeur of a historic palace or pick up the pace and paraglide over majestic mountain ranges, Austria is the place to create memories that last a lifetime.
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