See which are the best Austria’s attractions and use our itinerary to spend a great time in this amazing country.

Austria is a beautiful country worth visiting, even if only for a few days. We spent 3 days in Vienna (and traveled to Bratislava for a day trip), 1 in Hallstatt and 2 in Salzburg. Overall, we had an awesome time in the country and we highly recommend that you include it as one of your travel destinations.

While I fell in love with the charming town of Hallstatt and the magnificence of Salzburg, Vienna’s elegance and musical charms conquered my husband’s heart.

We are sharing the itinerary we followed which worked well for us, especially as we took some side trips to other nearby countries (more on those later). We travelled by train between cities but rented a car to drive from Salzburg to Hallstatt.

Day 1: Arrive in Vienna

Once you arrive in Vienna, get ready because there are quite a few attractions and sights to visit.

Schönbrunn Palace: Schönbrunn Palace is among Europe’s most magnificent imperial estates and has been owned by the famous Habsburgs since 1569. Its most stunning feature can be found in the gardens. The Schönbrunn gardens are extremely well-preserved so it’s easy to enjoy its immaculate grounds. Head to the Gloriette to take a wonderful picture of the city. For opening times and to purchase tickets visit the official website.

The Belvedere: The Belvedere is famous for its vast art collection, which includes works spanning from the Middle Ages to today. The Belvedere consists of two palaces: Upper and Lower Belvedere. The Upper Belvedere was one of the first ever public museums and today is the most visited art museum in Austria – you can find artwork by Klimt, Schiele, Funke, Monet, and van Gogh. The Lower Belvedere served as the residential palace of Prince Eugene, who was a patron of the Baroque style; the Belvedere’s gardens are a highlight of the Baroque landscape architecture. Visit the official website for entrance fees.

City Hall: Head to City Hall to take a look at one of Vienna’s most beautiful buildings. There are guided tours available where you can visit the Council Chamber, the two Coat of Arms Halls, the Stone Halls, Festival Hall, Senate Chamber, Grand Staircases and the Arcade Courtyard. Visit this website for more information on guided tours.

Since this is the day of your arrival to Vienna, you might not have a full day to visit several attractions, so we only limited it to three.

Day 2: Vienna

Mozarthaus Vienna: Mozart lived in this apartment from 1784 to 1787 and it’s where he composed the world-famous opera “Le Nozze di Figaro” along with three of the six Haydn Quartets. The apartment is now a museum, which displays several pictures and key documents that allow visitors to follow the footsteps of Mozart’s life during his stay.

Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday from 10 am to 6 pm / Last admission: 5.30 pm. Check this website for entrance fees.

St. Stephen’s Cathedral: If you want to experience Vienna from above, visit St. Stephen’s Cathedral, one of the city’s classic viewpoints. There are two different viewpoints: the north platform and the South tower. Get ready to climb 343 steps to reach the top of the South tower; every step is worth the view! There are also guided tours available of the cathedral and the tombs of bishops and Viennese royals. Visit the cathedral’s official website to check the entrance fees.

St Charles Church: Stop by the St Charles Church to view its impressive exterior featuring two giant imperial columns and a majestic dome. There is a panoramic elevator where you can view the frescoes more closely. Check out a concert, especially if it’s Vivaldi’s Four Seasons, for one of the best experiences of your trip.

Operating hours of the panoramic elevator: Monday-Saturday 9.00 am – 5.30 pm; Sunday 12.00 noon – 6.30 pm

Vienna State Opera: The Vienna State Opera offers first class productions and new programs every day. See if you can attend any of the offerings – they are well worth it.

Café Central: To get the whole Vienna experience, you have to visit one of the several coffee houses located throughout the city. We visited Café Landtmann and Café Central – and both offered delicious treats and coffee in a unique setting. Both café houses have served as inspiration for countless influential characters through history.

Day 3: Vienna

Hundertwasser House: Hundertwasser House is one of Vienna’s architectural highlights worth visiting. As you approach it, it will immediately catch your eyes with its colorful exterior and plants hanging from the balconies. Despite the fact you won’t be able to go in because it’s a private property, it’s still an iconic attraction in the city.

The Hofburg: Today, the Imperial Palace houses the office of the Federal President and one of the country’s best museums. Make sure to stop by the Silver Collection – a museum featuring the entire collection of imperial silver tableware once used by generations of Habsburgs royals. There are nearly 300 pieces on display in the Sisi museum which belonged to the Empress Elizabeth. Visitors to the Imperial Apartments will have access to the 24 rooms in the apartments occupied by Emperor Franz Joseph and his wife Elizabeth. Each room is fully furnished and decorated to reflect the historical period of the last Imperial Family.

Visit the official website for the latest entrance fees.

Day 4: Bratislava

When in Vienna, take advantage of its close proximity (a bit over an hour by train) and visit Bratislava. Bratislava is an enchanting city where a day trip would allow you to visit its main sights.

Read blog: Bratislava, Slovakia attraction: What you need to visit

Day 5: Salzburg

Wake up early in the morning and take the train to Salzburg. Once you arrive, head to your hotel to leave your suitcases, put on comfortable sneakers and head out to explore the city. Since you will lose most of the morning traveling, you will only have time to explore the city in the afternoon. Top sights include:

Hohensalzburg Fortress: Offering a 360-degree view of the city of Salzburg, Hohensalzburg Fortress is the biggest and best-preserved castle in Central Europe. You can visit the fortress year-round. There are two ways to get to the fortress: on foot or by taking the funicular, located in the Festungsgasse. For prices and opening hours visit the official website.

Once you reach the fortress you will have an amazing view the city of Salzburg from above as well as a couple of museums to visit. These include the Fortress Museum which documents the history behind the building and shows exhibits on how the opulent prince archbishops lived; the Marionette Museum; and the Museum of the Rainer Regiment.

Mirabell Palace and Gardens: The Mirabell Palace was built in 1606 by prince-archbishop Wolf Dietrich for his beloved Salome. Today, Mirabell Palace is now home to municipal offices and the mayor of Salzburg. When you arrive, you may find the place very familiar – the Mirabell gardens was one of the shooting locations of the musical “The Sound of Music”; the gardens were redesigned in 1960 under archbishop Johann Ernst von Thun. There is no entrance fee.

Tip: The Mirabell gardens offers a great photo opportunity of the gardens with the backdrop of Hohensalzburg Fortress.

Getreidegasse: Go back in time as you visit Getreidegasse, located in the heart of the city’s old town. In addition to being the street where Mozart’s house is located, Getreidegasse is the perfect spot to visit traditional and modern shops while grabbing a bite to eat.

The houses in the Getreidegasse are extremely charming and have a curious feature – they all have imprinted dates upon their façade indicating important moments in their history. A particular highlight of this street are its ornamental and often quite elaborate guild signs from the buildings high above pedestrians’ heads. The houses in this street are characterized by featuring beautiful facades.

Walk around the old town: Do not miss the opportunity to walk around this charming city. Discover Salzburg’s hidden alleys and cobbled streets, its baroque cathedrals and charming little restaurants and coffee shops.

Day 6: Hallstatt

Wake up early, pick up your rental car, and drive to one of the most picturesque villages in Austria: Hallstatt. With breathtaking mountains views, a lake inhabited by swans and charming houses dotting the landscape, Hallstatt is simply picture-perfect. Here is a list of activities and sights that you can visit when in Hallstatt.

Take Hallstatt’s iconic picture: If you know of Hallstatt, chances are that you have seen the iconic photo of the village, the lake, and the mountains in the backdrop. Head to this viewpoint early in the morning so that there are not many tourists all wanting to take the same picture. The viewpoint is less than a 10-minute walk from the center of the city and you won’t have any trouble finding it since Hallstatt is really small.

Stop by the charnel house: With a collection of over 200 painted skulls, the “bone house” is another typical visit when in Hallstatt.

Exercise in the lake: Rent an electric boat to navigate Lake Hallstatt and get views from different angles. You can rent a boat for either 30 minutes or 1 hour. You can check the prices on this webpage.

See if you can spot the swans: Swans have lived in Hallstatt since the 1860s when Emperor Franz Josef and his wife Empress Sisi vacationed in this region; and since Sisi loved swans they were imported to populate the lake.

Visit the World Heritage Skywalk: For a panoramic view of the mountains, Lake Hallstatt and the town, head to the skywalk. You can take the funicular or walk up – we choose to ride the funicular which costs 20 euros (US$24) for adults and 10 euros (US$12) for children (5-15 years old). Check the official website for the latest prices and schedule. There is also a restaurant offering panoramic views and serving local delicacies.

Visit the salt mine: Head to the Hallstatt Salzwelten and get immersed in an unforgettable geological history journey if you are visiting Hallstatt from mid-April to the beginning of November.

Visit the market square: For another picture-perfect spot, head to the market square. There are several cute houses and balconies with colorful flowers. Get a coffee to go and sit in one of the square benches while you see life go by in this cute town.

After you enjoy this beautiful and charming town, drive back to Salzburg, and stay the night there.

Day 7: Hohenwerfen Fortress and Salzburg

Grab your car or book a tour to get to Hohenwerfen Fortress – an approximately 37 min drive via A10. This 900-year-old fortress is located in the Salzach valley and dominates the city of Werfen. During this visit, visitors dive deep into the turbulent history of Hohenwerfen Fortress. There is also a birds of prey flight demonstration of the historic Provincial Falconry Center.

Opening hours:
April*: Tue – Sun, 9.30 a.m. – 4.00 p.m.
May – 11. July: daily, 9.00 a.m. – 5.00 p.m.
12 July – 13 August: daily, 9.00 a.m. – 6.00 p.m.
14 August – September: daily, 9.00 a.m. – 5.00 p.m.
October – 7 November*: Tue – Sun, 9.30 a.m. – 4.00 p.m.
*Closed Mondays (except holidays)

For prices please visit the official website.

Tip: Hohenwerfen Fortress can get packed so make sure you buy your tickets in advance.

Climb up the Kapuzinerberg: After you finish your visit to the Hohenwerfen Fortress, head back to Salzburg and put your sneakers to work by hiking to Franziskischlössl, a restaurant located at the top of the Kapuzinerberg which prepares a wide selection of Austrian dishes. If you haven’t had lunch yet, then this is a great spot to replenish some of the energy lost during the day. The climb up will give you a perfect shot of the Hohensalzburg Fortress.

Mozart’s birthplace: Stop by the “Hagenauer Haus” at No. 9 Getreidegasse to visit Mozart’s birthplace in 1756. Not surprisingly, this house is one of the most visited museums in Austria and a must visit for all Mozart fans. The museum features original rooms, along with authentic furniture and artifacts from the 18th century. There’s lots to discover as many of Mozart’s original certificates, letters, and other crucial memorabilia documenting his life in Salzburg are on display. Mozart’s own violin and clavichord can also be viewed in this museum. The fees are as follows:

• Adults € 12.00 I US$14.5
• Children (6-14 years) € 3.50 I US$4.2
• Youth (15-18 years) € 4.00 I US$4.8

However, for updated prices please visit the official website.

Mozartplatz: Located in the heart of the old town, Mozartplatz’s main attraction is the statue of Mozart, designed by Ludwig Schwanthaler, and found in the middle of the square. This is a great place to catch your breath, it is a bustling plaza with classical music humming along to the pulsating activities. Do not forget to look for the No. 8 house – where Constanze Mozart-Nissen, Mozart’s wife, once lived.

Residenzplatz: Considered the most beautiful square in Salzburg, Residenzplatz serves as the main venue for sporting events, live concerts, and an unforgettable New Year’s Eve party. Residenzplatz was among the filming locations of the “The Sound of Music” featuring an impressive baroque fountain, the most beautiful one in the city. When you visit, you’ll be in a crossroads of history – an ancient Roman forum stood in this plaza since the city’s founding.

After having an awesome time in Salzburg, take the train back to Vienna to spend the night.

Day 8: Fly home

Catch your flight home.

We are part of several affiliate programs including Amazon and Viator which means that we will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase through the links included in this post.

 

Hohensalzburg Fortress in Salzburg, Austria, is the biggest and best-preserved castle in Central Europe, and definitely a must-see when visiting Salzburg.

Hohensalzburg Fortress was by far, my favorite attraction in Salzburg. It’s impossible not to be amazed by its impressive architecture, which shapes the city’s skyline and becomes Salzburg’s iconic feature.

I remember taking the short walk along the river from our hotel, catching that mesmerizing glimpse of the fortress perched above the city with the sun gleaming off its façade. And wait until you can actually visit the fortress: the 360-degree view of the city of Salzburg from above will take your breath away. All in all, I could spend hours taking photos from different angles, spending time walking through the corridors and admiring its stunning views.

Sitting atop the Festungsberg hill at an altitude of 506 meters, the fortress was constructed in 1077 serving as protection for the archbishops and principality from any hostile invaders. What’s more, the fortress is an example of power being flaunted – its impenetrable walls are a demonstration of the political authority and power the Salzburgian archbishops held at that time.

Hohensalzburg Fortress has never been captured or sacked by foreign troops, proving the defensive capabilities of this fortification’s walls. In order to erect such a powerful structure, the fortress was constructed in three phases, and continued to be expanded under the succeeding archbishops until 1500 when it evolved into today’s form.

What to do

Visiting Hohensalzburg Fortress will give you the chance to travel back in history as you meander along its stark walls and fortifications; you can’t help but get the sensation of a Renaissance era soldier keeping solitary watch over the city.

There are a couple of museums within the fortress which are worth visiting such as the Fortress Museum, which preserves the history behind the building and its grounds showcasing exhibits on the lives of prince archbishops; the Marionette Museum which has charming exhibits on the puppets used for one of Salzburgian’s favorite pastimes; and the Museum of the Rainer Regiment.

Museum of the Rainer Regiment: This museum preserves the history of Salzburg’s former home regiment, the Imperial Austro-Hungarian Infantry Regiment “Archduke Rainer” No. 59. This museum houses eight rooms which give a chronological account of the famed regiment’s history since its foundation back in 1682 to the first World War.

The Fortress Museum: Get immersed in the Salzburg’s history and check out the exhibits featuring selected objects highlighting the museum’s vast medieval collection along with visitor firendly large-scale media installations. This museum illustrates different aspects of the Middle Ages and how that impacted the art, culture, and history of Salzburg.

The Marionette Museum: This museum houses several exhibits from the world-famous Salzburg puppet theater in Schwarzstraße. This was one of the local’s favorite pastimes, and is worth checking out.

Other attractions

Armory: The armory was used to store fortress’ canons, guns and other weapons. However, in 2019, it was converted into an exhibition area where visitors can enjoy a tour of the entire array of armaments including weapons, explosive gunpowder, the sophisticated defensive fortress construction, and the shot and cannonball mills.

Prince’s Chambers & Magic Theater: Where you will learn about the life and work of Salzburg rulers.

Panorama restaurant: If you are hungry, head to the Panorama restaurant and enjoy traditional Austrian cuisine. The view alone is worth any time spent here, but so is the schnitzel. This is what I called eating with a fantastic view!

Tickets & opening hours

When you visit the fortress there are two types of tickets available: the basic and the all-inclusive. The basic ticket gives you access to the castle area (courtyards, bastions, and chapel), the panorama tour, along the Fortress Museum, Rainer Regiment Museum, Marionette Museum, and Armory. This ticket also includes the ascent and descent on the fortress railway (saving you the walk). The ticket costs €12,80 (US$15.8) for adults and €7,30 (US$9) for children.

The all-inclusive ticket includes all the above attractions plus the magic theater and princely chambers. This ticket costs €15.90 (US$19.4) for adults and €9.10 (US$11) for children. Family tickets are also available, if required. For up-to-date prices please visit the official website.

May – June: 9.00 am – 6.00 pm
July – Aug.: 9.00 am – 8:00 pm
Sept. – Dec.: 9.30 am – 5:00 pm

Accessing the fortress

You can choose between two different ways to access the fortress, either on foot or by taking the funicular located in the Festungsgasse. As we like to exercise during our trips, we decided to walk up and enjoy breath-taking panoramas along the way. The funicular runs every 10 minutes and the ride is very short, lasting only a minute. Either way, you’ll also be able to enjoy marvelous views of the city and surrounding mountainous landscape.

Best places to photograph the fortress

Because of its size and high altitude, Hohensalzburg Fortress dominates the city of Salzburg. For this reason, there are several spots where you will be able to capture the fortress from different angles. Here are my favorites ones:

Makartsteg Bridge: This bridge, open exclusively to pedestrians and cyclists, provides a great spot to photograph the Hohensalzburg Fortress. When taking the picture, you will be able to capture the fortress in the background, the Salzach River, as well as the colorful locks that lend a lively appearance to the bridge.

Mirabell Palace and Gardens: The Mirabell Palace was built in 1606 and today is home to both the municipal offices and the residence of Salzburg’s mayor. The gardens offer a stunning photo: the gardens and Hohensalzburg Fortress in the background dominating the skyline.

Kapuzinerberg: This hill offers a magnificent spot to capture the several towers of Hohensalzburg Fortress. Since you will be climbing up the Kapuzinerberg, this spot will allow you to capture the fortress from a similar height with the mountains in the background. Put your sneakers on and get ready for a heck of a walk to capture this amazing photo!

Mönchsberg: Located in the heart of the city, Mönchsberg offers forest paths and green areas drawing crowds of people who want to enjoy nature. There are several vantage points offering panoramic views above Salzburg’s rooftops with Hohensalzburg Fortress protecting the city.

Location

Festung Hohensalzburg
Mönchsberg 34
5020 Salzburg

We are part of several affiliate programs including Amazon and Viator which means that we will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase through the links included in this post.

Check out a list of top 10 things to do in Vienna, Austria.

If I had to choose one word to describe Vienna it would be elegance. This former imperial capital, with palatial grandeur strewn throughout the city and the echoes of the classical masters dancing through the air, captures the imagination with every step. Vienna welcomes you with an elegance almost forgotten in time.

We spent three days in this city, which gave us a good amount of time to explore its major sights. Vienna is not only famous for its music and splendor, but it is renowned for the café culture which inspired artists, philosophers and politicians alike for centuries. The coffee drinking culture, along with some of the most historic coffee houses, can be found all around Vienna drawing locals and tourists alike to enjoy hours of inspiration.

Below is a list of the top 10 attractions we recommend visiting when in Vienna.

Schönbrunn Palace

Schönbrunn Palace is among Europe’s most magnificent imperial estates and has been owned by the famous Habsburgs since 1569. The palace has been used by the imperial family from a “humble” hunting lodge to the summer residences of the empress. Originally dating back to the 14th century, the palace has grown throughout the years to its current elegance and is a history lover’s dream. However, its most stunning feature can be found in the gardens.

Among the splendor of the palace, the gardens were designed to organically intertwine with the buildings. This is a great example of the concept of Gesamtkunstwerk, where many forms of art fuse to create a “complete work”; the concept can be seen throughout Vienna and especially at Schönbrunn.

Tip: Since this is such a popular attraction, get there early or even better, buy your tickets in advance so you don’t waste time being in line.

The Schönbrunn gardens are extremely well-preserved so spend some time strolling and soaking in the immaculate grounds. Whatever time you spend here is worth ever second – you will be captivated not only by the splendor of the gardens, but the tranquility and harmony that meander throughout. The gardens were first opened to the public back in 1779 and since then they have been a major recreational facility both for Viennese and tourists alike. The gates open at 6:30 am and entrance is free of charge. However, if you wish to visit the Maze, Zoo, Orangery Gardens, among other attractions you will need to purchase separate tickets.

Tip: There’s a wonderful view of the city from the Gloriette. Do not forget to take a picture from this spot.

For opening times and to purchase tickets visit the official website.

Location: Schönbrunner Schlossstraße; 1130 Vienna.

Mozarthaus Vienna

Pay a visit to the only apartment which was inhabited by Mozart that still exists today. Mozart lived in this apartment from 1784 to 1787 and it’s where he composed the world-famous opera “Le Nozze di Figaro” along with three of the six Haydn Quartets. Talk about inspired living!

The apartment is now a museum, which displays several pictures and key documents that allow visitors to follow the footsteps of Mozart’s life during his stay. Among the unique items in the apartment is a musical clock dating from 1790, which plays a variation of the “Andante for a cylinder in a small organ”, Mozart is thought to have composed this pieces specifically for this very clock.

Before you leave, visit the gift shop where you can purchase souvenirs as well as an exclusive selection of CDs and DVDs.

Tip: Throughout Austria you’ll find Mozart chocolates (Mozartkugel being my favorite variety), make sure you don’t leave with out trying these addictive bonbons.

Location and opening hours: Domgasse 5 1010 Vienna Tuesday to Sunday from 10 am to 6 pm / Last admission: 5.30 pm

Check this website for entrance fees.

City Hall

Vienna’s City Hall is among the city’s most beautiful buildings. It was designed by Friedrich Schmidt and erected between 1872 and 1883. The City Hall is the head office of Vienna’s municipal administration.

Guided tours to visit this building are available so visitors can get a close-up look at the Council Chamber, the two stunning Coat of Arms Halls, the Stone Halls, Festival Hall, Senate Chamber, Grand Staircases and the Arcade Courtyard with a good view of the Rathausmann statue on top of the main spire. Tours take place on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 1pm, with a few exceptions. Visit this website for more information on guided tours.

We visited Vienna in August, which was a perfect time for outdoor festivals. Here in City Hall you will find one of the liveliest festivals in Vienna. You will be treated to classical movies projected on a giant screen, lots of musician playing the greatest hits of the masters, spontaneous dancing and most importantly a bevy of food/beer stalls offering everything from local favorites, like sausages, to international cuisine.

Location: 1010 Vienna, Friedrich-Schmidt-Platz 1.

St. Stephen’s Cathedral (Stephansdom)

To see Vienna from above, head to St. Stephen’s Cathedral which is considered one of the most popular viewing points in the city. The gothic cathedral, which also incorporates baroque elements, was constructed in the 12th century.

The cathedral offers two different viewing points. Visitors can either take the elevator to the north platform – where the large cathedral bell is located or alternatively climb 343 steps to the South tower. Mind you, these steps are not the normal affair – you will need to squeeze through winding staircases where at times will only allow for one person to go up or descend at a time. Say no to the extra schnitzel until after you descend back to the plaza.

Guided tours of the cathedral and the tombs of bishops and Viennese royals are offered on a regular basis. Visit the cathedral’s official website to check the entrance fees.

Tip: Stephansplatz is surrounded by tons of restaurants and cafes. While the food may be good, the prices are typical of a tourist trap. It’s better to go to one of the classic cafés the city has to offer for a better meal and price.

Location: Stephansplatz.

Café Central

Stop by Vienna’s most beautiful coffee house and enjoy a wide selection of coffee and sweet treats baked at the in-house patisserie. While you enjoy the tasty treats, and admire the beautiful design all around you, remember that this coffee house was once frequented by some of history’s most influential characters including Trotsky and Freud.

Our visit to the Café Central was really especial, as when we were there La Cumparsita -the most famous tango- was playing, which transported back to our home country, Uruguay, where the song was composed.

Café Central is the epitome of Viennese elegance, with every details in the building and on your plate accounted for. This is perfect spot to spend hours to get inspired like the giants of history.

Tip: Vienna has a trinity of famous cafes, which includes Café Central. We recommend you go to all three, but a great option for summer evenings or dinner is Café Landtmann. This café was also the spot of inspiration for many artists from Gustav Klimt to Paul McCarthy.

Location: Corner Herrengasse / Strauchgasse.

Given its location close to the most famous attractions and sights, Café Central is a great pit stop to drink a good cup of coffee and replenish the energy lost while wandering in the city.

The Belvedere

The Belvedere is the embodiment of Viennese elegance and sophistication, last serving as the residence of the heir to the Austro-Hungarian Empire, Franz Ferdinand. What makes this palace special is its famous art collection, which includes works spanning from the Middle Ages to today.

The Belvedere consists of two palaces: Upper and Lower Belvedere. The two palaces were built in the eighteenth century to serve as the summer residence of Prince Eugene of Savoy.

The palace is essentially one of the oldest museums in the world. The Upper Belvedere was one of the first public museums and today is the most visited art museum in Austria – with highlights by Klimt (in fact the world’s largest collection), Schiele, Funke, Monet, and van Gogh.

The Lower Belvedere served as the residential palace of Prince Eugene, who was a patron of the Baroque style; the Belvedere’s gardens are a highlight of the Baroque landscape architecture.

Location: Prinz Eugen-Straße 27.

Visit the official website for entrance fees.

St. Charles Church

The façade of the church will catch your eyes upon your approach, with two giant imperial columns and a majestic dome. Once you see this beautiful church you will immediately think of Rome, as it clearly takes on the airs of that ancient empire; another Baroque structure within Vienna that will leave you breathless.

The construction of the church was the result of an oath taken by Emperor Charles VI to have the city overcome the last major bubonic plague epidemic and was finally opened in 1739. There is a panoramic elevator to take visitors to a platform where you can study the frescoes more closely.

Location: Karlsplatz, 1040 Vienna.

Operating hours of the panoramic elevator:

Monday-Saturday 9.00 am – 5.30 pm; Sunday 12.00 noon – 6.30 pm

Hundertwasser House

Designed by Friedensreich Hundertwasser, the Hundertwasser House is one of Vienna’s architectural highlights. In a city of imperial structures and majestic facades, this is one marvel that stands out in the crowd.

With its colorful exterior and litany of plants hanging from the balconies, the Hundertwasser House will not only leave an impression, but captures the concept of Gesamtkunstwerk in a modern way. Keep in mind that you will not be able to go in, as it is a residential building – but it’s worth stopping by to admire the building’s uniqueness.

Location: Kegelgasse 37-39, 1030 Vienna.

The Hofburg

For more than seven centuries, the Habsburgs ruled their empire from the Hofburg Imperial Palace. A truly remarkable work of art itself, the palace is located in the center of Vienna, serving as the pièce de resistance in a city saturated with majestic structures. The Hofburg was built in the 13th century and has been expanded over the years as Habsburgs increased their power.

Today, the Imperial Palace houses the office of the Federal President as well as one of the country’s best museums with a stunning art collection. The building also functions as a convention center of sorts, where high level forums are held every year.

When visiting the Hofburg, make sure to stop by the Silver Collection – a museum featuring the entire collection of imperial silver tableware once used by generations of Habsburgs royals. A visit to the museum will provide a peak into the world of court ceremony and the ritualist dining etiquette of the time. There are nearly 300 pieces on display in the Sisi museum which belonged to Elizabeth including her famous parasols, her personal collection of milk glass for traveling and its special case, and other personal items.

Visitors to the Imperial Apartments will have access to the 24 rooms in the apartments occupied by Emperor Franz Joseph and his wife Elisabeth, which comprise of studies, residential suites and reception rooms. Each room is fully furnished and decorated to reflect the historical period of the last Imperial Family.

Location: Heldenplatz, 1010 Vienna.

Visit the official website for the latest entrance fees

Vienna State Opera

Offering a different program every day, the Vienna State Opera offers first class productions. There are approximately 50 operas and ballet works per season, danced by the Vienna State Ballet.

Location: Opernring 2, 1010 Vienna.

We are part of several affiliate programs including Amazon and Viator which means that we will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase through the links included in this post.

Read this blog post to find out what to see in Salzburg, Austria.

Salzburg’s hills are alive with the sound of music – literally, the city is the birthplace of one of the giants of classical music, Mozart, and was the principal shooting location for the movie, “The Sound of Music”. It’s just impossible not to be swept off your feet by this baroque city – with narrow paths, an imposing fortress watching over the town, and the Alps framing a musical landscape.

The literal translation of Salzburg is “Salt fortress”, as it was the focal point of the salt trade. A historical ancient city, originating from settlements around salt mines, it is well known for its gorgeous Baroque architecture. Despite being bombed during World War II, much of the city’s architectural wonders remained intact – giving visitors the possibility to experience the city at its cultural height.

Tip: Salzburg welcomed us with freezing temperatures in the middle of August. As it was summer, we never brought warm clothes with us, so we had to stop by a store to get a hoodie and a scarf. Remember to always bring warm clothes – even if it’s summer.

We stayed in Salzburg for three days, minus a day trip to Hallstatt. Two full days in the city gave us plenty of time to visit the top attractions. Salzburg is a small city so you will be able to visit most of its attractions on foot; take advantage of the cultural experiences the city offers and don’t rush.

Tip: Bring comfortable shoes so you don’t have to worry about getting blisters.

What to see

Hohensalzburg Fortress

Offering a 360-degree view of the city of Salzburg, Hohensalzburg Fortress is the biggest and best-preserved castle in Central Europe. The fortress was constructed back in 1077 – under the orders of archbishop Gebhard – to serve as protection for the archbishops and principality by attacks from hostile invaders. Hohensalzburg Fortress has never been captured by foreign troops.

The fortress continued to be expanded under the succeeding archbishops until 1500 when it evolved into the iconic form we know today.

The fortress can be visited year-round, giving you an excuse to visit the city in any season. There are two ways to get to the fortress: on foot or by taking the funicular, located in the Festungsgasse. For prices and opening hours visit the official website. We chose to do some exercise and walk up which gave us the chance to take in the magnificent views along the way.

Once you reach the fortress you will have the opportunity to view the city of Salzburg from above – a view that is equally as breathtaking as from Makartsteg bridge – as well as visit a couple of museums. These include the Fortress Museum which preserves the history behind the building and its surroundings, and shows exhibits on how the prince archbishops lived; the Marionette Museum; and the Museum of the Rainer Regiment.

Visit the official website for information about opening times and prices.

Mozart’s birthplace

Stop by the “Hagenauer Haus” at No. 9 Getreidegasse to visit Mozart’s birth place in 1756. Not surprisingly, this house is one of the most visited museums in Austria and a must visit for all Mozart’s fans. The museum features original rooms, along with authentic furniture and artifacts from the 18th century. There is lots to discover as many of Mozart’s original certificates, letters, and other crucial memorabilia documenting his life in Salzburg are on display. Mozart’s own violin and clavichord can also be viewed in this museum.

The fees are as follows:

• Adults € 12.00 I US$14.5
• Children (6-14 years) € 3.50 I US$4.2
• Youths (15-18 years) € 4.00 I US$4.8

However, for updated prices please visit the official website.

Makartsteg bridge

The Makartsteg bridge crosses over the Salzach River. Open exclusively to pedestrians and cyclists, the Makartsteg bridge was named after the 19th century painter Hans Makart.

The bridge features hundreds or thousands of locks attached by lovers lending a colorful appearance to the bridge as the sun light plays off the latches. This bridge is well known as a great photography spot to capture the Hohensalzburg Fortress playing sentinel over the city.

Getreidegasse

Go back in time as you visit Getreidegasse, located in the heart of the city’s old town. Not only is it the street where Mozart’s house is located, Getreidegasse is the perfect spot to visit traditional shops and grab a bite to eat.

The houses in the Getreidegasse are characterized by featuring beautiful facades which have important dates engraved to mark moments in their personal history. A particular highlight of this street is the many guild signs which are very ornate and quite elaborate, hanging from the buildings high above pedestrians’ heads. Keep an eye out while you walk to see how many signs you catch.

Walk around the old town

Do not miss the opportunity to walk around this musical city. Discover Salzburg’s hidden alleys and cobbled streets, sprinkled with baroque cathedrals and charming little cafés. It wont be strange to hear a faint familiar tune as you walk, and when you do make sure to follow the song to its source for a live performance. If you are lucky, you will hear a rendition of Mozart’s classic compositions in the city that gave the world this musical giant.

Mozartplatz

Located in the heart of the old town, Mozartplatz’s main attraction is the statue of Mozart, designed by Ludwig Schwanthaler, and found in the middle of the square. This is a great place to catch your breath, it is a bustling plaza with classical music humming along to the pulsating activities.

Do not forget to look for the No. 8 house – where Constanze Mozart-Nissen, Mozart’s wife, once lived.

Residenzplatz

Considered the most beautiful square in Salzburg, Residenzplatz serves as the main venue for sporting events, live concerts, and an unforgettable New Year’s Eve party. Residenzplatz was among the filming locations of the “The Sound of Music” featuring an impressive baroque fountain, the most beautiful one in the city. When you visit, you’ll be in a crossroads of history – an ancient Roman forum stood in this plaza since the city’s founding.

Franziskischlössl

Don’t be fooled by the name – Franziskischlössl is not a castle (schloss is German for castle); it’s a restaurant located at the top of the Kapuzinerberg which prepares a wide selection of Austrian dishes. Kapuzinerberg offers magnificent views of the old town and the Hohensalzburg Fortress, so put on your sneakers and climb up the hill. There are many trails to choose from and they are well-kept.

Mirabell Palace and Gardens

The Mirabell Palace was built in 1606 by prince-archbishop Wolf Dietrich for his beloved Salome (his mistress). Today, Mirabell Palace is home to municipal offices and the residence of Salzburg’s mayor. The Mirabell gardens grounds served as one of the shooting locations for the “The Sound of Music”, featuring the newly redesigned gardens by archbishop Johann Ernst von Thun.

Tip: This location offers a great photo opportunity of the gardens with the backdrop of Hohensalzburg Fortress.

There is no entrance fee to the Mirabell gardens.

Read blog: Things to do in Hallstatt: Austria’s picture-perfect village

Where to stay

Hotel am Mirabellplatz: This boutique hotel is located opposite the Mirabell Palace and is only a short walk from the old town. Additionally, it’s only a 10-minute walk from the main train station. There is a 24-hour reception, free Wi-Fi in the lobby, and a lounge offering free drinks and newspapers.

Altstadt Hotel Hofwirt Salzburg: This hotel is located only 950 feet from the Salzburg Main Train Station and a 15-minute walk away from the old town. The Adlerhof hotel offers free Wi-Fi and free on-site parking. The hotel is a historic building dating from 1900, with plenty of history within its walls.

Hotel Elefant: Located in the heart of Salzburg’s Old Town, the historic, fully renovated Hotel Elefant dates from the 13th century! Mozart’s birthplace and the Festival Hall can be reached within a few steps from the Hotel Elefant. Mirabell Castle, the Hohensalzburg Fortress and the other side of the city center are only 650 feet away.

We are part of several affiliate programs including Amazon and Viator which means that we will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase through the links included in this post.

There are plenty of things to do in Hallstatt, one of Austria’s most wonderful villages.

Hallstatt has everything that a fairy tale village must have: breathtaking mountains views, a lake inhabited by hundreds of swans, winding paths, and charming houses all around. There is no way to deny it: Hallstatt is simply picture-perfect.

Seeing pictures of the mountain mists meander through charming cliffside cabins only to dance off a lake full of swans, is why I fell in love this village. However, when I experienced it in person, I knew I found my soulmate of a village – a place I could live forever and always be captivated by its wonder.

We visited Hallstatt for the day only – and in retrospective I would have chosen to stay at least one night to enjoy the town in the early hours, when it’s quiet and large numbers of tourists haven’t yet arrived.

Hallstatt: A fairy tale village

Nestled between imposing mountains and the Hallstatt Lake, Hallstatt dates back more than 7,000 years. This village has become extremely popular recently, welcoming 500,000 visitors every year. In 1997, it was added to the UNESCO World Heritage list.

There are plenty of things to do in this town. Here is a list of my favorite activities:

Take the postcard-perfect photo: You absolutely can’t leave Hallstatt without taking the iconic photo of the town. Remember that everyone wants to take this picture so the spot might get crowded. Better to head to this viewpoint in the early morning when it’s quieter and tourists haven’t arrived yet. It’s less than a 10-minute walk from the center of the city and you won’t have any trouble finding it.

Visit the charnel house: Pay a visit to the “bone house” located in St. Michael’s Chapel where there is a collection of over 600 painted skulls. While many of the skulls were decorated at the end of the 18th century, there a few dating from the 20th century.

Go for a ride in the lake: Put on your captain hat and rent an electric boat to enjoy Lake Hallstatt. You have the option to rent it from 30 minutes or 1 hour. You can check the prices on this webpage.

Take pictures of the most beautiful Hallstatt inhabitants – aka swans: Swans have lived in Hallstatt since the 1860s, when Emperor Franz Josef and his wife Empress Sisi vacationed in this region. The local story is the empress adored swans, and the locals, who wanted to impress their ruler had a bevy of swans imported. Today, this legacy lives on as every visitor flocks to take photos of the birds. These creatures are really photogenic, so you will end up taking wonderful pictures of swans posing for you for free!

Walk around the cemetery: I know it might sound somewhat odd to recommend visiting a cemetery, but Hallstatt’s is so beautiful that it radiates an uplifting aura. According to the official website, there are no family graves in this cemetery and a grave can be re-occupied after ten years.

Visit the World Heritage Skywalk: Hovering 350 meters above the roofs of Hallstatt, this skywalk offers a panoramic view of the mountain scenery (ranging from the Sarstein to the Plassen mountains) Lake Hallstatt, and the beautiful town.

To get to the skywalk you need to take the funicular up the mountain or walk up if you are feeling strong. The funicular rides every 15 minutes and costs 20 euros for adults and 10 euros for children (5-15 years old). There are also family tickets available. Check the official website for the latest prices and schedule. Don’t skip the skywalk – it’s definitely worth visiting.

And after you soak in magnificent views, head to the Rudolfsturm restaurant -located only 2 minutes’ walk from the cable car top station- which offers a terrace with panoramic views and serves local delicacies. The original structure of the Rudolfsturm was a medieval defense tower against invaders dating back to the 13th century.

Visit the salt mine: If you visit Hallstatt from mid-April to the beginning of November, you will have the chance to enjoy daily tours to the Hallstatt Salzwelten and get immersed in an unforgettable geological history journey.

Stroll down the market square: This is another picture-perfect spot with charming houses featuring balconies full of colorful flowers. There are a couple of benches in the square, so take some time to soak in this beautiful view. There are also some souvenirs shops where you can buy presents for your family and friends.

Tip: Remember to bring a poncho or small umbrella given that there is a strong possibility that it will ruin while you are in Hallstatt since it rains for more than 190 days on average per year.

Getting to Hallstatt

We visited Hallstatt as a day trip from Salzburg, which took us around one hour to get there by car. Keep in mind that it’s not possible to drive to the center of the town. Parking is limited for the inhabitants of Hallstatt as there’s not too much space.

However, visitors can park outside the center and there are electronic signs showing how many spots are still left. If you have booked a hotel in the center, there is a shuttle available that can take you from the parking lot to the hotel.

You can also take the bus or the train from Salzburg to Hallstatt. It takes between 2 hours to 2 hours 30 minutes to get there. Keep in mind that if you arrive by train you will need to take a ferry since it will leave you across the lake.

Tip: Hallstatt is not a hidden gem anymore: it’s actually packed with tourists so make sure you arrive early to grab a parking spot.

Where to stay

I da Mitt: Located close from Museum Hallstatt, I da Mitt offers accommodations with a bar, a garden and room service. Free Wi-Fi is offered throughout the property. All units come with a seating area, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels and a private bathroom. A buffet breakfast is also available.

Heritage Hotel Hallstatt: This hotel consists of 3 historic buildings and offers a bar, lakeside terrace and free Wi-Fi in all common areas. All rooms offer views of the town and Lake Hallstatt. The rooms are all individually furnished and feature cable TV, a mini-bar, and tea and coffee-making facilities. Parking is available for a fee in the parking area outside the town. From there, free shuttle bus to the hotel is available.

We are part of several affiliate programs including Amazon and Viator which means that we will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase through the links included in this post.