Things to do in Austria

Imperial palaces and coffeehouse culture in Vienna, Alpine peaks and lakes further west, and a classical music heritage that still shapes how the country presents itself to visitors.

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What's worth your time in Austria

Tour Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna

Culture

The Habsburgs' summer residence, with 1,441 rooms, manicured gardens, and a zoo that's been operating on the grounds since 1752.

Attend a standing-room opera performance at the Vienna State Opera

Culture

Same-day standing tickets cost a fraction of seated prices and are a genuine Viennese tradition — arrive early to queue for a good spot.

Swim in Hallstatt's alpine lake

Nature

A postcard village on Lake Hallstatt ringed by mountains, best seen early morning before the day-trip tour buses from Salzburg arrive.

Explore Salzburg's old town and Hohensalzburg Fortress

Culture

Mozart's birthplace and one of Europe's largest fully preserved medieval castles, towering over a baroque old town.