Top 30 Things To Do In Austria - Updated 2024

things to do in austria
James
James 
Updated
| 13 min read

Sitting majestically in the heart of Europe, Austria is a beautiful place to visit. This alluring nation is blessed with stunning mountainous landscapes, charming villages, the breathtaking Alps, and spectacular architecture. It is a popular destination for tourists visiting the continent. Austria’s cascading countryside offers its visitors plenty of places to explore, go hiking, or trek the countryside. Once a citadel of art, culture, and music, this country boasts of being the origin to some of the most beautiful works of art ever produced in the world. Austria is also known for its amazing Alps, making it a skier’s paradise. With its rich and diverse culture, low crime rates, and clean natural air, this country is a great place to visit. To make every moment of your trip exhilarating, try out these top things to do in Austria.

1. Tour the stunning Hellbrunn Palace

Salzburg Schloss Hellbrunn 5
Source: Photo by user Zairon used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Built over 400 years ago, Hellbrunn Palace is nothing short of a magnificent edifice. This enchanting palace was made to be an oasis of pleasure and relaxation since then. Ideally located in Southern Salzburg, Hellbrunn Palace offers you a mesmerizing display of trick water fountains with hydraulic attractions that will leave you awed. It also highlights hidden water jets to give you a surprise splash of refreshing water, magical lights and music display, spacious parks, and gorgeous gardens. A tour of this stunning palace is a great way to unwind and have fun on your visit to this country.

Hellbrunn Palace

Address: Fürstenweg 37, 5020 Salzburg, Austria

Website: Hellbrunn Palace

Price: from 14 USD

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2. Relish delicious food options at Naschmarkt


The most popular food and produce market in all of Austria, Naschmarkt is a place you must visit. At this fantastic market, you are offered a wide range of things to buy, eat, drink, and explore. Naschmarkt is a bubbling place of interaction and shopping. Its stalls are made colorful by the different array of fresh food and fruits on offer, delicious meals, snacks, or hotdogs to eat on the go. Go around and have a taste of myriads of recipes. You can even visit the market to watch and enjoy the real Austrian market shopping feel.

Naschmarkt

Address: 1060 Vienna, Austria

Website: Naschmarkt

Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 6am - 9pm (closed on Sun)

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3. Explore the historic Hofburg (from USD 17.35)

things to do in austria | explore the historic hofburg

Hofburg, a massive palatial complex in the heart of Austria’s capital city, is a place of regal majesty. Built to serve as an imperial winter castle to the then-Emperor, Hofburg has always been the powerhouse of the country till date. Its rich history and monarchical heritage offer you plenty of places to explore and sights to see. Discover its fantastic silver and jewelry collection and the unique Sisi museum, the charming Imperial apartments, and other items of historical value. A guided tour through this monumental palace will walk you through the exotic past of the country.

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Vienna: Imperial Treasury in the Hofburg Palace

918 reviews

4. Check out the monastic library at Melk Abbey (from USD 124.0)

Melk Abbey is one of the most beautiful and most massive Baroque structures in Europe. With its impressive architecture and rich history, it has been named as one of UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites. This monumental structure is famous for several things, including its monastic library. The library of the Melk Abbey is filled with thousands of historical manuscripts and books dating as far back as the 15th century. With its fantastic vintage interior décor, you can visit this library to see ancient documents, famous books, and works preserved in its pure original state.

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Danube Valley Day Trip from Vienna

Duration: 8 to 9 hours

1482 reviews

5. See some artworks at Kunsthistorisches Museum (from USD 22.77)

things to do in austria | see some artworks at kunsthistorisches museum

Austria is a country of magnificent buildings and classical antiquity. One place to experience these features is the Kunsthistorisches Museum in Vienna. Built in the 18th century to house the imperial collections, this museum is home to enchanting works spanning over five millennia from ancient Egypt to the late 1800s. Take in the beauty of the stunning artworks on display. Don’t forget to look out for the instruments of some great artistes and ancient weapons when you tour this fantastic museum.

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Vienna Kunsthistorisches Museum Day Admission Ticket

917 reviews

6. Admire the gorgeous Schonbrunn Palace (from USD 71.0)

One of Austria’s most visited tourist attractions, Schonbrunn Palace is a place you shouldn’t miss seeing on your trip to Austria. This majestic palace was built to serve as a luxurious summer home to the famous Habsburg monarch. Have a tour of this place and beat the ticket queue to explore the original furnishings, decorations, and unique interior design of an authentic Austrian imperial palace. Explore the living area and staterooms, or relax in the gorgeous gardens surrounding the castle. An unforgettable experience at this place is inevitable.

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Skip the Line Schonbrunn Palace and Historic Vienna City Tour

Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes

890 reviews

7. Discover the exceptional Museum of Military History


This exciting museum located in Vienna is home to several fascinating exhibitions and displays. An excellent place for lovers of history and military, the Museum of Military History mainly shows the role of the army and military history from the 16th century till date. This museum offers you interesting artifacts, including the automobile in which Franz Ferdinand was shot (which started the first world war), several military items, and an exhibition of Austria’s history as a significant naval power. First opened in 1856, this museum will keep you enthralled with its remarkable displays.

Museum of Military History

Address: Arsenal 1, 1030 Wien, Austria

Website: Museum of Military History

Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)

Price: 8 USD

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8. See exotic animals at Alpenzoo Innsbruck (from USD 20.6)

see exotic animals at alpenzoo innsbruck

The Alpine Zoo (Alpenzoo Innsbruck) is a haven for a diverse range of animals in the country. This zoo gives you an insight into the rich alpine animal world. Well-located at the foot of the Nordkette Mountain range, this zoo offers you a chance to see the different types of animals including bears, birds, marmots, otters and more. You also get treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding mountainous landscape. Alpenzoo Innsbruck is a great place to spend quality time with your family or friends.

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Combi Entrance Ticket to Alpine Zoo and Hungerburg

266 reviews

9. Watch a concert at Wiener Rathaus


Wiener Rathaus, more popularly known as Vienna City Hall is a remarkable edifice in the center of the city. This stunning structure is one of the most beautiful works of architectural excellence in the whole town. With its Neo-Gothic style of architecture, it is a great background to take scenic pictures. You can spend time looking at its marvelous building or enjoying a fantastic concert at the halls Burgtheater. And if you are visiting during the Christmas period, you should not miss shopping at the hall’s famous Christmas market!

Wiener Rathaus

Address: Rathauspark W, 1010 Wien, Austria

Website: Wiener Rathaus

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

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10. Visit the beautiful Hofkirche


The Hofkirche (Court Church) can be described as a church in Innsbruck, but really, it is a lot more than that. Monumental and straightforward on the outside, this magnificent church presents a whole different story inside. Its interior is gorgeously decorated with bronze statues and stunningly beautiful treasures to keep you fully mesmerized. The Hofkirche is home to the tomb of Emperor Maximilian I and Andreas Hofer. Marvel at the architectural excellence, exquisite finishing, and remarkable statues inside this grand building. With a lovely outside garden, visiting this church should be at the top of your itinerary.

Hofkirche

Address: Universitätsstraße 2, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria

Website: Hofkirche

Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)

Price: Free

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11. Be dazzled by Ambras Castle (from USD 13.0)

Enjoy a day of peace and a refreshing time out when you spend your day at the fantastic Castle Ambras. Set on the hills above Innsbruck, this castle is a popular tourist attraction in the country. On tour to this castle, you get to see the impressive jousting armor suits and bathing facilities used back in the 16th century. You also get to admire famous paintings and be dazzled by the castle’s remarkable Spanish hall and many other exciting things.

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Skip the Line: Ambras Castle in Innsbruck Entrance Ticket

Duration: 1 to 6 hours

51 reviews

12. Head to the remarkable Mirabell Palace (from USD 42.29)

head to the remarkable mirabell palace

If you are a music lover wondering where to have a unique experience in Austria, then this is just the perfect place to go. Enjoy a memorable evening in the spectacular halls of Mirabell Palace in Salzburg. Awaken your love for classical music by listening to famous pieces by Mozart and other artistic greats performed in an enchanting atmosphere. Once referred to as the most beautiful concert hall in the world, the musical works and excellent soloists here will leave you mesmerized all through your visit.

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Salzburg: Mozart Concert at Mirabell Palace

Duration: 1.5 hour

1602 reviews

13. Go to Leopold Museum (from USD 18.43)

go to leopold museum

Leopold Museum is a place of classic art masterpieces. With an intricately and beautifully designed exterior made with white shell limestone, this museum is a unique treasure chest of modern art and expressionism. Also a very well-visited landmark in the city, this museum boasts of being home to several amazing pieces including works from Klimt, Egon Schiele, Oskar Kokoschka, etc. It has a light-filled atrium that offers visitors, and even those outside, a panoramic view of the city and the building itself.

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Vienna: Leopold Museum Skip-the-Line Entry Ticket

365 reviews

14. Admire the enthralling Krimml Waterfalls

Take a trip from your accommodation, straight through a lush valley, to the most amazing waterfalls in all of Austria - Krimml Waterfalls. This remarkable waterfall drops from a height of 1,246 feet (380 meters), making it the highest waterfall in the country, too. You can explore the lower point of the waterfall or choose to take an exciting hike to the top of Krimml Waterfalls. The walk to the top offers you a chance to feel the force of the waterfall up-close. You can also grab a bite at the hillside restaurant on your way up.

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Krimml Waterfalls Full-Day Private Tour from Salzburg

Duration: 8 hours

15. Marvel at the architecture of Goldenes Dachl


Standing tall and shining from the heart of the historic town of Innsbruck, Goldenes Dachl – also known as the Golden Roof, is a must-see for anyone visiting Austria. This spectacular landmark is a remarkable alcove balcony built by Emperor Maximilian to get a full view of the city below. Its fire-gilded copper tiled roof gives it the characteristic shiny appearance, and the structure is also richly designed with curious figures and images. The Golden Roof can also be seen clearly from any part of the city.

Goldenes Dachl

Address: Herzog-Friedrich-Straße 15, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria

Website: Goldenes Dachl

Opening hours: 10am - 5pm (daily)

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16. See the exhibits at the amazing Natural History Museum


Explore the objects, gems, and exhibitions at the National History Museum in Austria. This museum is dedicated to showcasing the evolution of man, our history, and the different types of life forms on Earth. With over 30 million items on display, this beautiful museum also features a planetarium, a large hall just for dinosaurs, and several other prehistoric artifacts and sculptures. You can even find samples of meteors from outer space. It is a beautiful place to unwind and appreciate the wonders of nature and space.

Natural History Museum

Address: Burgring 7, 1010 Wien, Austria

Website: Natural History Museum

Opening hours: Thu - Mon: 9am - 6:30pm; Wed: 9am - 9pm (closed on Tue)

Price: 13 USD

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17. Visit the 17th-century Salzburg Cathedral


A famous destination for tourists interested in its different unique features, Salzburg Cathedral is a great place to spend some time in Austria. Built on a site that has been housing cathedrals since the 8th century, this cathedral is one of Austria’s most prominent structures. It is a place that boasts of beautiful architectural finishing and designs, splendid artworks, and a collection of rare relics. One interesting fact about this cathedral is that the famous classical music artiste, Mozart, was baptized in the cathedral’s baptismal font.

Salzburg Cathedral

Address: Domplatz 1a, 5020 Salzburg, Austria

Website: Salzburg Cathedral

Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 8am - 7pm; Sun: 1pm - 7pm (vary according to month; check website)

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18. Discover the incredible drawings at Albertina Museum


Located in the center of Vienna, Albertina Museum is home to some of the finest art collections in the world. This museum is named after a Duke whose former palace houses it. Within, you will find amazing features, including one of the world’s largest and most critical graphic collections. Enjoy a stroll around the museum while admiring some of the most valuable art pieces from the 1800s. With more than 65,000 drawings and paintings by legends like Picasso, Degas and Monet on display here, it is a great place to connect with the rich artistic heritage of Austria.

Albertina Museum

Address: Albertinaplatz 1, 1010 Wien, Austria

Website: Albertina Museum

Opening hours: Mon - Tue, Thu, Sat - Sun: 10am - 6pm; Wed, Fri: 10am - 9pm

Price: 12 - 18 USD

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19. See the special displays at Austrian National Library


The most extensive Baroque library in Europe, Austrian National Library, is also one of the most beautiful in the world. Elegant, spacious, and monumental, this library is historical and has different museums that display its rich array of objects and over eight million books. Its excellent location in Vienna makes it easy to locate and is a favorite destination for tourists. Enjoy gazing on the splendid architecture, incredible fresco-decorated dome, special exhibitions, and books from as far back as the 15th century at Austrian National Library.

Austrian National Library

Address: Josefsplatz 1, 1015 Wien, Austria

Website: Austrian National Library

Opening hours: Wed - Sun: 10am - 6pm; Tue: 2pm - 6pm (closed on Mon)

Price: 5 - 6 USD

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20. Visit Klosterneuburg Monastery


Klosterneuburg Monastery was established more than 900 years ago by the Babenberg Margrave Leopold III, who later became the patron saint of Austria. This sprawling structure then became the residence of the Babenbergs and Habsburgs. Its treasure chamber is home to the crown of the Archduchy of Austria. The monastery offers you enchanting views of its majestic structures and features including its impressive architecture. Since its construction, this monastery has become a cultural, economic, and religious hub for the people of Austria and beyond. Take a fully guided tour around the monastery and appreciate its glory.

Klosterneuburg Monastery

Address: Stiftsplatz 1, 3400 Klosterneuburg, Austria

Website: Klosterneuburg Monastery

Price: 19 USD

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21. Catch a show at Wiener Musikverein

Musikverein Wien 2009 04 30
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Li Sun used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Austria is known for its music, and one place to enjoy it at its best is the Musikverein. A center for classical music and shows, this incredible place has played host to some of the best musicians in the world. It also has a very well-designed interior, with artworks that are nothing short of captivating. The New Year’s concert here is broadcasted internationally every year. There are English and German-speaking tours to choose from, and if lucky enough, you can catch a live classical performance.

Wiener Musikverein

Address: Musikvereinsplatz 1, 1010 Wien, Austria

Website: Wiener Musikverein

Price: 11 - 22 USD

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22. Pray at 16th-century Church of Maria Saal

Maria Saal Pfarr-und Wallfahrtskirche Mariä Himmelfahrt 28052015 4203
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Johann Jaritz used under CC BY-SA 4.0

One of the earliest churches in Carinthia, this place is a real fortress. This place served as a place of protection during the Turkish invasion. This ancient church boasts of a lot of features. However, one thing that has not changed about the church is its sacredness. Till date, people still travel to Europe to get a chance to pray in this 16th-century cathedral. If you are planning a visit to Austria, use the opportunity to pay your religious homage at this historic church.

Church of Maria Saal

Address: Hauptpl. 9, 9063 Maria Saal, Austria

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23. Go skiing at Kitzbüheler Horn

Posted by Alpenhaus - Kitzbüheler Horn on Monday, 29 April 2019

You can’t visit Austria without going on a ski trip at least once. Whether you are an experienced skier or you have never tried it before, at the Kitzbuhel ski area, everyone can ski. This place offers very well-groomed ski slopes with different levels of difficulty for different people. There are facilities set in place to teach you how to ski and fun areas for the kids too. It’s a fantastic place for all-around family fun on ski slopes.

Kitzbüheler Horn

Address: 6370 Kitzbuhel, Austria

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24. Tour the St. Stephen’s Cathedral


Magnificent, beautiful, and iconic, the St. Stephen Cathedral stands tall, watching over the city. It is one of the most important and loved landmarks in the country. Characterized by lofty towers, hidden secrets, and intriguing catacombs, this cathedral has played significant parts in the history, economic and spiritual aspects of the country. Take an enlightening and exciting tour of this cathedral, viewing all its stunning decorations, architecture, and art treasures. You can also climb the 343 steps leading to the impressive south tower and enjoy breathtaking views of the city.

St. Stephen’s Cathedral

Address: Stephansplatz 3, 1010 Wien, Austria

Website: St. Stephen’s Cathedral

Price: 5 USD

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25. Try stand-up paddleboarding on Santa Lucia Bay

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Jetzt kommt wohl die schönste Zeit für alle Stand Up Paddler. Infos: www.sup2gether.com Du willst es gleich ausprobieren? Ruf uns an: +43-463-20323020 oder schreib uns eine Nachricht

Posted by Sup2Gether • SUP Center • Kärnten on Wednesday, August 28, 2019

Another fun outdoor activity you can do in the country aside from visiting all the fantastic monuments is to go stand-up paddleboarding. What does this mean? It means you get picked up from your apartment/hotel, taken to one of the gorgeous beaches in the country, and taught how to use and handle a stand-up paddleboard. You are allowed to go into the refreshing water and explore the remarkable sea while gazing on the beautiful Acapulco coastline. When done, you’d be allowed to rest for a few minutes on the beach, then taken back to your hotel/apartment. It feels as attractive as it sounds.

Paddle Board Classes - SUP2GETHER

Address: Lorettoweg 48, 9020 Klagenfurt am Wörthersee, Austria

Website: SUP2GETHER

Opening hours: 2pm - 7pm (daily)

Price: 58 EURO/Person/Hour

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26. See the Lipizzaner horses at Spanish Riding School (from USD 24.94)

see the lipizzaner horses at spanish riding school

Admire the stunning architecture, look behind the scenes, and learn more about our equestrian friends when you visit the Spanish Riding School in Austria. Enjoy a guided tour of this historic landmark all around its facilities including the Summer Riding School. The Lipizzaner horses are the star of the show, however, as they are beautiful and very active. Located in the center of Vienna, this riding school has been up and running for almost 500 years, and is a great place to have fun with friends or family.

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Vienna Spanish Riding School Guided Tour

Duration: 55.0 minute

3487 reviews

27. Check out the sculptures at Belvedere Palace (from USD 18.11)

check out the sculptures at belvedere palace

Originally built as a summer home for a prince, this luxurious palace complex now houses a stunning art museum and of course, a charming, well-tended garden. The Belvedere boasts of some of the country’s most valuable art collections and also displays terrific artworks from the middle ages till now. Visitors to this grand structure get to see some incredible sculptures from world-renowned artists and even the magnificent Marble Hall. Also get to see famous paintings by Klimt, The Kiss, on display on the walls of this museum.

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Vienna: Upper Belvedere & Permanent Collection Entry Ticket

Duration: 1.0 hour

5018 reviews

28. Watch a performance at Vienna State Opera (from USD 64.6)

watch a performance at vienna state opera

Relax in a magical place of symphonies and harmonic classics at the elegant Vienna State Opera. Watch the performance of some of Mozart’s best works by outstanding musicians in this beautiful opera house. See musicians wearing impressive decorative robes and ornate wigs. Listen as they excellently dish out arias, duets, and overtures from the most beautiful melodies in the world. Entry into this opera state house comes at a fee but discounts are given for children between the ages of 5 and 18.

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Vienna: Mozart Concert at the Vienna State Opera

Duration: 2.0 hour

218 reviews

29. Enjoy tandem paragliding at Tennengebirge (from USD 179.0)

Thinking of something to do to get your adrenaline pumping on your visit to Austria? Why not go paragliding! The breathtaking view of the Austrian countryside and mountain scenery as a backdrop to a city filled with architectural brilliance is sure to make you have a memorable experience. Easy, comfortable, and quite safe, tandem paragliding down to the town offers you nothing short of a dream-like adventure through the city. With easy access to and from the launch and landing sites, you shouldn’t miss this exciting outdoor activity.

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Tandem Paragliding Werfenweng Mt Bischling

Duration: 90 to 120 minutes

30. Admire the pandas at Tiergarten Schonbrunn (from USD 22.0)

Located in the Schonbrunn Palace Gardens, Tiergarten Schönbrunn is the oldest zoo in the world. Established in 1952, the zoo is home to more than 700 different animal species. Admire the pandas, jaguars, orangutans, koalas, and elephants; immerse yourself in the magic of the tropical rain forest. This zoo is best known for the preservation of rare giant pandas. Admire them and learn about how the panda specie was saved from going extinct.

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Tiergarten Schonbrunn Entrance Ticket

Duration: 1 to 5 hours

6 reviews

Come and experience the best of Europe in Austria

Europe is a popular destination among tourists for its remarkable architecture, incredible art, and inviting culture. Austria offers you a chance to experience all the region’s wonders, and more. A country filled with several amazing structures, buildings, art galleries, and a firm hold of classical music, Austria has something for everyone. Whether you’re a lover of art or an outdoor junkie; whether traveling alone or with family, these things to do in Austria will make your trip nostalgic.

Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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James Kure is an ardent writer from a very humble background. He loves writing about the world’s top travel destinations, especially the Scandinavian and Japanese regions. When not writing, James...Read more

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