Popular tour destinations in Austria
Austria is a captivating destination, boasting stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture that make it perfect for organized tours. From the majestic Alps to historic cities, there’s something for everyone seeking unique experiences.
Vienna: The capital city is famous for its imperial palaces, classical music heritage, and vibrant arts scene.
- City walking tours
- Guided museum visits
- Concert evenings
- Café culture experiences
- Historic royal palace tours
Salzburg: Known as the birthplace of Mozart, Salzburg is a baroque jewel surrounded by mountains.
- Sound of Music tours
- Salt mine excursions
- Cultural heritage tours
- Garden visits
- Scenic boat trips on the Salzach River
Innsbruck: A city nestled in the heart of the Alps, perfect for those who love outdoor activities and history.
- Skiing and snowboarding tours
- Cable car hikes
- Historical city tours
- Guided mountain bike rides
- Day trips to nearby nature parks
Hallstatt: A picturesque village known for its picturesque lakes and salt mines.
- Scenic walking tours
- Boat tours on Hallstätter See
- Salt mine tours
- Photography excursions
- Cultural heritage experiences
Graz: Austria's second-largest city, rich in history and modern culture.
- Old town walking tours
- Contemporary art tours
- Food and wine tastings
Types of tours available in Austria
Austria offers an impressive range of tours that cater to diverse interests and preferences. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or a culinary enthusiast, there are many experiences waiting for you.
Cultural & Historical Tours: Delve into Austria's rich history and vibrant culture with tours that explore its castles, museums, and historical landmarks.
- Vienna Historical City Tour
- Salzburg Cultural Heritage Walk
- Bratislava Day Trip from Vienna
- Medieval Castle Tours in Burgenland
- Vienna's Imperial Palaces and Gardens
Nature & Adventure Tours: Discover Austria's breathtaking landscapes through exhilarating outdoor activities.
- Hiking tours in the Tyrolean Alps
- Cycling adventures in the Wachau Valley
- Rafting on the Salzach River
- Canyoning in the Hinterglemm region
- Skiing in the Zillertal Valley
Food & Wine Tours: Indulge in Austria's culinary delights with guided food and wine tasting experiences.
- Wine tours in the Wachau Valley
- Traditional Austrian cooking classes
- Tapas and wine pairing in Vienna
- Beer tasting tours in Salzburg
Multi-Day & Package Tours: For those wanting an organized experience, multi-day tours offer an itinerary filled with activities and visits across regions.
- Austrian Lakes & Mountains Tour
- Vienna & Salzburg 7-Day Tour
- Scenic Train Rides through the Alps
Best day trips and excursions in Austria
Austria's central location and excellent transport connections make it easy to explore stunning nearby sites. Here are some of the best day trips to consider when visiting.
- Vienna to Wachau Valley – Explore beautiful vineyards and medieval towns (1-2 hours by train).
- Salzburg to Hellbrunn Palace – Visit the unique trick fountains and gardens (30 minutes by public transport).
- Innsbruck to Nordkette Mountain Range – Enjoy breathtaking views and outdoor adventures (20 minutes by cable car).
- Vienna to Bratislava – Discover Slovakia's capital just an hour away by boat or bus.
- Salzburg to Berchtesgaden – Visit the picturesque village and nearby lake (30 minutes by car).
- Graz to Riegersburg Castle – Explore this charming fortress with stunning views (1 hour by car).
- Vienna to Melk Abbey – Tour the stunning baroque monastery and gardens (1.5 hours by train).
- Innsbruck to Zillertal Valley – Enjoy hiking or skiing, depending on the season (dropping about an hour).
Adventure and outdoor tours
Austria is a paradise for adventure and outdoor enthusiasts, with its picturesque mountains, lush valleys, and pristine lakes. The country offers a plethora of thrilling activities suitable for all skill levels.
Hiking in the Alps: Explore some of the most scenic trails in Europe, from guided day hikes to multi-day trekking experiences.
- Guided hikes in the Hohe Tauern National Park
- Mountain trekking in the Karwendel region
- Alpine routes with breathtaking views
Skiing and Snowboarding: Austria is renowned for its winter sports, attracting enthusiasts from around the world.
- World-class resorts in Innsbruck & St. Anton
- Family-friendly ski tours in the Zillertal Valley
Cycling Tours: The country boasts numerous cycling paths that showcase its stunning landscapes.
- Biking along the Danube Cycle Path
- Mountain biking in Tyrol
Water Sports: Engage in exciting activities on Austria's lakes and rivers.
- White-water rafting on the Salzach River
- Canyoning in Tyrol
Cultural and thematic tours
Austria's rich cultural tapestry is woven from its historical legacy, artistic contributions, and local traditions. Visitors can immerse themselves in diverse themes through specially curated tours.
Historical Heritage Tours: Trace the footsteps of emperors and musicians in iconic cities.
- Vienna's Historic Coffeehouse Tour
- Salzburg's Mozart Experience
Local Traditions: Discover the unique customs and lifestyle of Austrian regions.
- Sheepdog Trials in Tyrol
- Tyrolean folk music events
Wine & Cuisine Exploration: Taste your way through Austria's delectable offerings.
- Wine tasting in the Wachau Valley
- Austrian cooking workshops in Vienna
Art & Music Appreciation: Experience the cultural vibrancy of Austria through guided performances and exhibitions.
- Classical music concerts in Vienna
- Art galleries showcasing Austrian artists
Practical tips for booking tours in Austria
Booking tours in Austria can be a smooth experience if you know what to look for. Follow these practical tips to ensure you choose the best options for your travel plans.
- Research reliable tour operators with good reviews.
- Consider booking tours online for the best selection and prices.
- Be aware of typical tour durations; day tours usually last 4-8 hours.
- Check the inclusion of transport, meals, and guides in your tour price.
- Understand local tipping customs; usually 10-15% is appreciated.
- Dress appropriately for the season and activities planned.
- Familiarize yourself with payment methods; cash is still common in smaller venues.
- Review the cancellation policy before booking.
- Ensure guides speak your preferred language.
- Prioritize safety in adventure tours by ensuring proper equipment and guidance.
