Sights of Austria: Top 25 (MANY PHOTOS)
Austria remains the most desirable vacation spot for many tourists. Sights of Austria attract lovers of diverse cultures from around the world. Each tour ordered by you is accompanied by an interesting story about the sights. Professional guides fully reveal the centuries-old history and traditions of this country. Perhaps, after acquaintance with architectural monuments, this state will forever remain a great love, in which the sights of Austria, its history and modernity are fantastically intertwined.
What to see in Austria first
Regardless of whether your companions will be guides in Austria , friends or relatives, you need to decide in advance on the choice of places to which you want to go. Planning a route is based on the number of days you spend in a picturesque European country, your interests (nature, educational tourism, sports, etc.), as well as whether you plan to travel with children.
1. St. Stephen's Cathedral (Vienna)
Each country has its own centuries-old symbols in which the spirit of the nation is concentrated. Sights of Austria are headed by St. Stephen's Cathedral. The majestic spire of St. Stephen's Cathedral is one of such iconic concepts. Suffice it to say that the spire of the Cathedral rises 136 meters. You can admire it from any area of Vienna. The cathedral is made in the Gothic style, it stands monumental in the main city square.
For tourists, the Cathedral is interesting in history and architectural beauty. The Austrians themselves venerate the relic due to the abundance of cultural rarities stored inside.
These include:
- Handmade church utensils.
- Icons, many of which are more than one century old.
The Austrians respectfully call the Steffi Cathedral. Its history is truly unique. For seven centuries it is an integral part of Austrian culture. The architecture of the building is impressive.
There is everything to amaze the tourist’s imagination:
- Stained glass windows.
- Mosaic roof.
- Pointed towers.
- Noble stucco molding.
- Oval windows.
The cathedral was founded in 1359.
Conceptually, it consists of two towers: North and South. North remained unfinished, its height is only 70 meters. The temple is accessible for inspection; observation platforms are arranged in both towers for tourists.
To understand how much the Austrians love all the sights of Austria and their “Steffi”, it’s enough to recall that, after a devastating fire in 1945, the cathedral was restored almost completely on charitable donations from ordinary citizens.
Official website: http://www.stephanskirche.at/
2. Hofburg Palace (Vienna)
What could be more interesting for a tourist than the habitat of an imperial family? In Vienna, they carefully treat the Hofburg, which is the winter residence of the Habsburg dynasty. This is a medieval castle whose history dates back many centuries. The first mention of the residence is celebrated in 1279.
Currently, the palace has been restored. All 2600 halls are completely recreated in it. Moreover, the current president uses some of Hofburg's premises for personal residence. The history of Hofburg is interesting because at different times the castle was built by someone from the imperial dynasty. So, for example, the Swiss Gate appeared during the reign of Ferdinand I.
The chambers of the Empress with their defiant luxury appeared under Rudolph II. Leopold I arranged the famous wine cellars in the castle. A grand Spanish playpen was erected on the territory of the castle under Charles VI. Interestingly, horses of the Lipitsian breed, known throughout the world, still play in this arena. With trepidation and a shudder, tourists perceive the information that in 1938, Hitler proclaimed the Anschluss on the balcony of the castle, marking the accession of Austria to Germany.
Official website: https://www.hofburg-wien.at/en/
3. Belvedere Palace (Vienna)
What to visit in Austria? Blessed Belvedere Palace Complex! It was erected by order of Prince Eugene of Savoy. This happened in the 18th century, and since then the summer residence in Landstrasse remains the pearl of Austria. Belvedere always shines with its beauty. This is the best baroque work by Lucas von Hildebrandtom. The prince felt protected and peaceful here, his chambers are the embodiment of luxury and comfort. Maria Theresa did not slow down with the purchase of the Belvedere immediately after the death of the prince.
Since the 18th century, the Belvedere has not changed much. The Austrians periodically carry out restoration work, carefully preserving the historical appearance of the ensemble. The baroque composition is formed not only by the architectural complex, but also by the adjacent gardens. The Austrian gallery, known worldwide as a repository of rare masterpieces, is also located in the palace.
For the Austrians, Belvedere is associated with significant events:
- The signing of the Vienna Protocol in 1941.
- The signing of the Declaration of Independence of Austria in 1955.
To touch the historical facades of the Belvedere is to feel the living breath of Austrian history.
Official website: https://www.belvedere.at/en
4. Schönbrunn Palace (Vienna)
In 1996, Schönbrunn was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. The magnificent palace, which is the main imperial residence of the Habsburgs, is surrounded by a park ensemble. The sophisticated sophistication of the building competes with the magnificent fountains and statues surrounding the palace.
When thinking about what to visit in Austria, pay attention to how the Austrians value the spirit of history and everything that makes the residence of Schönbrunn unique. The park has several pseudo-Roman ruins that make an indelible impression on tourists.
The first mention of the palace was found in the annals of the Klosterneuburg monastery in the 14th century. He transferred to the jurisdiction of the Habsburgs in 1569. The magnificent ensemble got its name due to the fact that in 1612 Emperor Matvey discovered Schöne Brunnen here, which means “beautiful sources”.
During the reign of Maria Theresa, the palace turned into a summer residence of the imperial family and was filled with sophistication, which only a woman could bring to the interior. Currently, the palace reconstruction program is entrusted to Schloß Schönbrunn Kultur, which is committed to preserving the historic appearance of the building and maintaining its engineering and technical communications.
Official website: https://www.schoenbrunn.at/en/
5. Mozart's House (Vienna)
It is known that the great Mozart traveled a lot around the world. He generously gave away his talent to people, but his beloved Vienna gave him special inspiration. Of all the habitats of Mozart, his only apartment has been preserved, which is preserved in the same form. Her address is Domgasse 5. The composer's apartments consisted of 4 rooms and 2 offices. It was here that the opera The Wedding of Figaro was written, which is especially expensive for the Austrians.
The period of residence in this apartment is marked by the secular popularity of young Mozart. Countless love adventures and gushing inspiration formed the basis of the composer's spiritual life. Mozart gladly accepted many invitations to perform in various palaces, salons and concert halls.
But most often he returned to this apartment, where he continued to create. Overhaul of the apartment was made in 2006. Currently, it houses the Museum, covering an area of 1000 square meters. The world of the composer is reproduced here delicately and subtly.
Official website: http://www.mozarthausvienna.at/
Feel the atmosphere of Austria in this beautiful video!
6. Herberstein Castle (Styria)
If you do not know what to visit in Austria, pay attention to Herberstein Castle. Its uniqueness lies in the fact that it is located on a stone block. The castle rises above sea level by more than 400 meters. Translated from German, its name means Bitter Stone. A panoramic view of the mysterious gorge opens from anywhere in the castle.
The first mention of this amazing building dates back to the 13th century. It was then that the famous diplomatic surname Herberstein began to officially own the residence. A powerful weapons arsenal was a reliable defense for the castle. For four centuries, he never fell into the hands of enemies. Herbersteins defended their possessions not for life, but for death.
The uniqueness of architecture lies in the diversity of style. Connoisseurs highlight the features of the Renaissance, Baroque and Gothic. Herberstein was not disposed to flashy luxury, so the castle looks ascetic and restrained. But its advantage is the park ensemble with the “Pavilion of Roses”, which is included in the list of “Sights of Austria”.
The dynasty includes noble titles, including counts and barons. Membership in the diplomatic corps was inherited in this dynasty. A prominent representative of the surname is Sigmund von Herberstein, who speaks many languages. He made a career as a diplomat at the court of Kaiser Maximilian I. Today Herberstein is the pride of Austria, therefore the castle is carefully preserved for posterity.
7. Schönbrunn Zoo (Vienna)
Sights of Austria excite the imagination of travelers. Tourists visiting Austria need to think in advance what to see in Austria. For example, they will be interested to know that zoos have existed in this country since the 16th century. Schönbrunn Zoo was established in 1570. But earlier he was considered only a menagerie. He received zoo status in 1752, according to the will of Emperor Franz I.
The architecture of the zoo is interesting. Its design consists of 13 compartments forming the shape of a cut cake. Since 1799, ordinary people could come to the zoo for free. The zoo was replenished with exotic animals from America and Africa, where Joseph II organized expeditions specially for this.
Tourists with great pleasure listen to the story that in 1906 an elephant was born here. This is a unique event, since in captivity until now elephants have not been born. Currently, the zoo is privatized, its owner is Dagmara Schratter. In 2002, its 250th anniversary was solemnly celebrated. At this point, a coin issue of 5 euros was timed, which depicts the central pavilion of the zoo and several animals on its background.
Official website: https://www.zoovienna.at/en/
8. Neusiedlersee-Zewinkel National Park
What to see in Austria? Of course, the Neusiedlerze-Zewinkel National Park! The sights of Austria replenished in 1932, when this park was organized on the shallow lake Neusiedler See. The reserve area is 35,000 hectares. This is a protected natural complex, which is a nesting site for many species of birds. For tourists, the reserve is interesting for its diverse landscapes. In particular, they are pleased to get acquainted with reed beds, meadows and Central European steppes.
Most of all, it is interesting to visit the reserve during the period of seasonal bird flights. Their number here increases several times. The status of the national park reserve was awarded in 1993. The conservation zone, along with the park, is located in the world network of UNESCO biosphere reserves. Natural, natural beauty is carefully guarded by the government. The condition and stock of birds is constantly monitored.
Interestingly, the park is located on the border with Hungary and Austria. Therefore, the natural complex was combined with the Hungarian nature reserve Ferte-Hanshag, which adjoins this protection zone from the Hungarian side. Here you can observe the life of birds and animals in natural conditions. But the crystal clear waters of the lake in the reed and reed thickets are no less interesting to travelers.
Official website: http: //www.nationalpark
9. Cave of the Ice Giants Eisriesenvelt (Werfen)
The depth of the ice cave is 407 m. The volume of ice ledges on the arches of the cave exceeds 25,000 cubic meters. The cave is located at an altitude of 1641 m in the Alps. Nature amazingly located it inside the famous Hochkogel mountain. It seems that universal secrets are collected here. And if you have not decided yet what to see in Austria, the cave should be included in your plans.
The cave consists of many mysterious passages, which the river naturally laid here. Limestone rocks were eroded by water for several millennia.
Ice growths on the walls and arches formed during the natural melting of alpine snows. As snow avalanches descended and compressed in a cave, water did its job. Snow masses over the centuries turned into blocks of ice. Despite the fact that tourists are allowed into the cave no further than 1 kilometer, they have enough enchanting impressions for life.
Here are magnificent stalagmites, many of which bear their own names:
- Khimir Castle
- Big ice embankment.
- Ice Palace.
- Veil of Frigga.
The cave is located near the town of Werfen. Moreover, the interest in it of local residents does not run out as well as the curiosity of tourists.
Official website: http://www.eisriesenwelt.at/en/
10. Carinthia Region
The Carinthia resort area with its blessed climate and pristine nature attracts those who think what to see in Austria. These are lovers of skiing. Carinthia is the southernmost region of Austria, which borders Slovenia and Italy. The second name of Carinthia, the “Austrian Riviera,” is firmly rooted throughout the world.
The area is full of magnificent sparkling snow valleys and mirror lakes. Tiny resort towns lurking along the shores of lakes and picturesque mountain slopes are famous for their exquisite hotel service.
Beach tourist infrastructure here meets the highest criteria. Moreover, tourists are attracted not only by modern ski slopes, but also the sights of Austria. They have the opportunity to get to know the palaces and castles that the land of Carinthia is famous for.
The tourist routes passing through Carinthia are interesting not only for outdoor enthusiasts. Admirers of exquisite privacy and true connoisseurs of mountain landscapes come here. The capital of Carinthia is the city of Klagenfurt. Here is the longest lake Werther See, which has a length of 20 km. It seems to be sandwiched between the northern mountains, so it delights in its beauty at any time of the year.
Sights of Austria: what else to visit while in Austria
If time, effort and financial opportunities are not only enough for the main attractions, you should definitely go on an excursion around Austria to places that are not so famous, but no less amazing in beauty and history. And do not forget to leave time to relax, to always be full of energy and open to the knowledge of new sights.
11. Tauern (Tyrol, Carinthia and Salzburg)
The largest reserve in Europe is Tauern. The conservation area exceeds 180,000 hectares. With a relatively small history, the reserve has become one of the most popular holiday destinations in Europe. The main value of the reserve is the pristine beauty of the mountains. Here, the peaks of the mountain snow-capped peaks delight with snow overflows, therefore the National Park is rightly called the most picturesque part of Austria.
There is plenty of everything here:
- Glacial fields
- Mountain rivers.
- Alpine meadows.
The rattling mountain waterfalls of Krimmer and Golling sparkle billions of splashes in the sun at any time of the year. They reflect both the sky and the sun, so they represent a blessedly beautiful picture. The tourism business is well-established to perfection, and the client centers are located in Matraite, Niedernsill and Malnitz.
12. Dachstein Mountain Range (Alps)
Dachstein covers an area of 600 square kilometers. In the Alps it is the second highest mountain. Worldwide, this tourist route is known as the city of three lands, as the massif is located on the territory of three Austrian regions: Upper Austria, Styria and Salzburg. Climbing the cable car, you can see the wild beauty of the mountains untouched by man. It seems that the peaks rest against the sky itself.
A large number of caves gave rise to many legends in these places. According to folk traditions, many good spirits are found here. Tourists are happy to hear stories about them, but most of all their imagination is shocked by the panoramic views of Lake Gosausee. It gives the impression of a blue bowl buried in white-silver mountains.
Picturesque green slopes frame the lake from all sides. Just looking closely, you can see the traces of civilization. Tiny campsites have the most polished service, so staying here remains in the memory for a long time.
The freshness of the air here is amazing. Just a few days later, a person feels a surge of new strength. The purity and freshness of the water in the lake is ensured by melt streams that constantly flow down the mountainside.
13. Karl-Marx-Hof (Vienna)
Residential building Karl-Marx-Hof is not included in the list of "Sights of Austria", but it is interesting in its own way. In 1927, the Social Democratic Party of Austria took the initiative to create a common house for the poor. His goal was to defeat poverty. The ruling party practically coped with this task. In parallel with the introduction of the luxury tax, construction began on a house that was 1,100 meters long. It has 98 entrances and 1382 apartments. The apartments have a compact footage, the largest of which reaches 60 square meters.
The house was built, and the socio-economic situation in the city relatively improved. It became a monument to the desire of the city authorities to worry about the poor. But in 1934, during the February Uprising, the house was seriously damaged and was only renovated in 1950.
It is interesting that the famous film "Night Porter" was shot on the basis of this house. We can say that this building is a kind of prototype of modern residential complexes, in which, in addition to private apartments, common areas with service departments are arranged.
14. Alps
There are many reasons to visit Austria. There are many attractions and natural beauties. But the main reason why tourists come here is the Alps. Their length is 500 kilometers. Lovers of skiing are waiting for a real paradise. Campsites and hotels with high quality service are prepared for them. There are 70 ski areas. And all of them are divided by the level of training of tourists. Safety is paramount here.
Austrian service is considered the standard of service. Therefore, world-famous celebrities come to the Alps with pleasure to see all the sights of Austria.
Ski tourism here is thought out to the smallest detail. Tourists are especially pleased that the ski-pass here is paid at a time. This makes it possible to change tracks almost every day, I enjoy more and more new alpine landscapes. To all the pleasures that the ski resort promises, divinely clean air and magnificent landscape panoramas that open here to all tourists are added.
15. The Imperial Crypt (Vienna)
The imperial crypt is the resting place of the emperors of the Roman and Austrian empires, as well as the emperors of Austria-Hungary. Above the crypt is the Capuchin church. Emperors have been resting here since 1633. In total, 12 emperors and 19 empresses are buried here. Including here the second wife of Napoleon 1 Maria Louise, as well as the Emperor of Mexico Maximilian , is buried here .
In addition, many members of the Habsburg family were also buried here. More than 140 noblemen rest in the imperial crypt. Respect for the imperial family can be traced in the thorough ritual symbolism, which is full of the crypt. There are many mourning sculptures and images.
Tourists are interested to know that, according to ancient tradition, the hearts of the Habsburgs were buried in Silver vessels, and not in sarcophagi.
The first emperors to rest in the crypt were Empress Anna and Emperor Matthew. Emperor Franz Joseph I was the last to be buried here. All the hearts of the Habsburgs are buried in the crypt of hearts, which is located in the Augustine Church. A funeral ceremony with burial of hearts was held from 1654 to 1878. Currently, the crypt is guarded by capuchins.
16. Casino Baden (Lower Austria)
The country of mountains, the richest architecture and the geniuses of music is enchanting Austria. Sights of Vienna include hundreds of museums, art galleries, the Cathedral and dozens of other cathedrals, many magnificent palaces. Autumn balls, Vienna Opera, classical music festivals are known all over the world. Along with the large and lush cities of this country, there are small and distinctive, complementing the true appearance of Austria. One of them is the town of Baden near the Vienna Woods, which is famous for its thermal springs and the famous casino, which has become a popular place for recreation and entertainment. In terms of architecture, this magnificent building is considered the most beautiful gambling establishment in all of Europe. Today, in the elegant atmosphere of a casino, the most passionate visitors can plunge headlong into the world of gambling.
17. Hohensalzburg Castle (Salzburg)
Among the ancient fortresses of Europe, Hohensalzburg Castle occupies a place of honor not only due to the maximum safety of structures, but also due to its impressive size - this is why these walls are so fond of visiting lovers of medieval history. This castle is the heart of the old Salzburg, its history dates back 9 centuries, during which the appearance of the building remained almost unchanged. That is why today you can get the most accurate picture of the life of medieval Austrian nobility, as well as visit one of the interesting exhibitions, the Princely Chambers with their preserved unique interior, the Golden Hall, upholstered in leather with golden embossing. During the tour, visitors are told about the main milestones of the castle’s history and the life of its inhabitants.
18. Crystal worlds of Swarovski (Wattens)
Choosing where to go in Austria in order to dilute the experience of exploring the numerous palaces and castles with something new and original, we recommend choosing the “Crystal Worlds of Swarovski”. This is a fairy-tale world - a world of crystals, crystal figures, paintings, sculptures and sparkling labyrinths. The fantasy museum, created by artist Andre Heller, consists of 14 rooms of the “Underworld”, which at the entrance is guarded by a giant with crystal eyes and water erupting from his mouth. Guests of this unreal world can make an extraordinary journey through a multi-colored sparkling labyrinth, where the boundaries of dreams and reality are completely erased. A visit to the underground city, in addition to visual sensations, involves all the human senses, impresses with mysterious sounds and aromas.
19. Hochosterwitz Castle (Carinthia)
On the southern federal state of Carinthia, on a steep 160-meter hill and its slopes, one of the most picturesque forts of the country is located - the Hochosterwitz Castle . To get inside, you need to overcome the serpentine road with 14 fortified gates - not a single enemy in the millennia-old history could take this castle, therefore its structures even today retain their original appearance. The palace complex includes two courtyards - internal and external, as well as the central residential palace and a number of other buildings. Within the walls of a residential castle, you can explore medieval interiors, paintings, a collection of armor, weapons and see a wooden statue of the once famous castle keeper - a real person whose height exceeded 2 meters.
20. Innsbruck (Tyrol)
Not only ancient monuments, but also some festive events attract tourists to the Austrian city of Innsbruck. It is located in the historical region of Tyrol, located near the border with Switzerland - which is why some of the sights of Switzerland and Austria, if desired, can be covered in one trip. But they come to Innsbruck for skiing entertainment, walks in the historic district, and of course, to visit the grand Christmas market on Catholic Christmas. It was during this period that Innsbruck was revealed in all its magical beauty, lit up by millions of neon lights, beckoning with the smell of mulled wine and the traditional “kiahln” donuts. Walking along the streets of its Old Town, you can hear live spiritual music, stock up on Christmas tree decorations and wooden souvenirs at the Christmas market.
21. Eggenberg Palace (Graz)
On the outskirts of the large Austrian city of Graz is the largest aristocratic residence in Styria - the baroque castle of Eggenberg, built in the 17th century. The palace was built by Prince Eggenberg in the era of great scientific discoveries, and the true traditions of Buddhism are the basis of its design. For example, in the castle there are only 365 windows - exactly as many as the days of the year, and the sun looks into each of them. In the park, located around the castle, there are 12 gates - this number corresponds to the number of months in a year, as well as 4 towers, symbolizing the four elements. Nowadays, part of the palace premises is used to demonstrate the archaeological collection with bronze decorations, weapons, antique ceramics.
22. Monastery in Melk (Melkom)
Austria is known for its large cities, with their ancient majestic buildings. However, there are small towns and provinces in which the soul and heart of Austria lives. The most beautiful small cities in Austria sometimes preserve their unique, little-known history, which is opened only to those who want to see this country from a new perspective. For example, the provincial town of Melk is the western gate of the Wachau Valley, a World Heritage Site. The Abbey, founded here in 1089, brought glory to the city, and the Benedictine monastery became the hallmark of the city. It is known for its frescoed marble hall and library with hundreds of thousands of books. The monastery park is especially beautiful, one of the parts of which has preserved the baroque features, and the second was redesigned in the 19th century in the English style.
23. Hohenwerfen (40 km from Salzburg)
The architectural sights of Austria are complemented by another magnificent building, which seems to have descended from the pages of an old fairy tale. Hohenwerfen Castle is one of the most beautiful fortifications in the country, not so much due to architecture, but thanks to the dizzying, magical views of the surroundings. It is located on a 155-meter hill, surrounded by mountains covered with dense forests, above the Salzach river valley. Once the castle was the residence of the princes of Salzburg, but now it has a number of museums and exhibitions. For example, a falconry museum, an arms exhibition, a serf tavern, folklore and local history museums enjoy particular success. Sightseeing vehicles go to the foot of the hill on which the castle is located, and climb the special funiculars to the top.
24. Krimmler Waterfall (Krimler-Ahe River)
Tranquil mountain lakes, crystal waterfalls, pristine nature reserves, pristine mountain landscapes, amazing snow valleys - all these treasures were collected by Austria on its lands. Sights of nature - a great and important asset of this country. One of these treasures is Krimmler Falls, located in the Hohen Tauern Nature Park. This is the largest European waterfall 400 meters high, which is why it is also called European Niagara. Three successive water cascades, falling from stone ledges, where the highest point is 1,460 meters, at the end of their journey turn into the rugged mountain river Krimmler-Ahe. The main part of the waters feeding the waterfall is meltwater of glaciers.
25. Lake Faker See (Carinthia)
Going on a trip to the sights by car, any traveler explores the horizons of opportunities that opened before him and wonders what to see in Austria by car. Traveling from Vienna to Venice, in the Austrian land of Carinthia, you can visit the beautiful turquoise lake, the waters of which have an amazing color due to the limestone particles that create a blue “glow”. Beautiful not only the lake, but also its surrounding areas - picturesque alpine meadows, fields, pristine forests and peaks of the surrounding cliffs of Karavanken. There is a wonderful tourist center on the lake with bars, clubs, supermarkets and cafes, you can also go fishing, wander along forest paths or take horseback rides.
Next to Austria is Italy - a country that has had a huge impact on Western culture and cuisine. Be sure to visit this country! Read about the sights of Italy and be inspired to continue your journey through the countries of the European continent.
0 Comments