Things to do & places to visit in Austrian Alps, Austria

The majestic Austrian Alps stretch across the country, an awe-striking area of Ice Age valleys, verdant heaths and alluvial cones within Europe's largest national park, 700-square-mile Hohe Tauern. Taking in the dramatic cities of Salzburg and Innsbruck and the beautiful province of Tirol, home to spectacular skiing and hiking, as well as Gross Glockner, Austria's highest peak, and some of the world's best winter and summer sports playgrounds, the Austrian Alps are an outdoor lover's paradise.

Austrian Alps #2 destination in Austria 2023. The average rating score is 4.46 based on 111.2k traveler reviews, of 148 attractions. Timezone: Europe/Vienna, current date and time: Wednesday, May 08, 2024, 15:11.

Top things to do (28)

Top places to visit (30 attractions) view more »

5.0 Fraulein Maria's Bicycle Tours (1.848 reviews)
- Fabulous Experience!
Bike Tours

We had amazing time with our guide, Sabrina! She made everyone feel welcome and included the entire group in the Sound of Music trivia throughout the tour. I am a big fan of the movie so I really enjoyed learning new unique trivia. It was truly so much fun getting to sing along to the Sound of Music as we biked through the beautiful country side! The bikes seemed fairly new and there were spares bikes hidden around almost every turn. One bike in our group got a flat, and Sabrina was able to swap it for a new one within 5 minutes. I would give the experience 10 stars if I could! See more..
5.0 Grossglockner High Alpine Road (1.607 reviews)
- A breathtaking drive
Spent More than 3 hours Scenic Drives

One of Austria's top 3 destinations amidst the Alps The Grossglockner High Alpine Road is like an ornament of ribbons located between green mountain pastures, colourful flower meadows, rocky rubble, ice and show. It nestles up against hills, follows the course of the natural ground and fits the mountains like a glove. Whooshing waterfalls, the shrill whistling of marmots and the howling wind in the summit regions create an unforgettable high alpine soundscape. And then, all of a sudden, he appears: his majesty, the Grossglockner, the black mountain. Join us for a journey beyond compare up high to the perpetual ice of the glacier! See more..
4.5 Fortress Hohensalzburg (12.0k reviews)
- Amazing views
Wednesday: 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Architectural Buildings • Castles • History Museums

This amazing 11th-century castle overlooks Salzburg from a hill on the outskirts of the city. Fortress Hohensalzburg is a real eye-catcher, high above the Baroque towers of the city. The castle remains a visible landmark to this day and is an unmistakable feature of Salzburg’s world-famous skyline. From afar, the mighty walls begin to reveal the history visitors experience at first hand within these sturdy defenses. Opening hours: We are open for you 365 days a year - even on public holidays! January – April and October– December: 9.00 a.m. – 5.00 p.m. May – September: 9.00 a.m. – 7.00 p.m. Advent weekends and Easter: 9.30 a.m. – 6.00 p.m. Please note: On 24th of December, we are closing at 2pm. See more..
4.5 Salzburger Altstadt (8.976 reviews)
- Historic and beautiful old town
Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks

We decided to stay in the Alstadt(old city) of Salzburg and it was a great decision. The area is great for walking with so many historical medieval buildings cafes, restaurants, bars and shopping ans laneways to explore. On one of the days were stayed at Salzburg Alstadt there was a small market in the city square. My wife was disappointede that we were only staying 3 nights and Salzburg was one of her favourite European cities. Thankfully the historic centre is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996 so preserved for future generations to enjoy. See more..
4.5 Mirabell Palace and Gardens (6.997 reviews)
- Lovely Garden
Points of Interest & Landmarks • Architectural Buildings • Gardens

This former palace now houses government offices. The gardens are where the von Trapp children sang "Do-Re-Mi" in the Sound of Music. See more..
4.5 Salzburg Cathedral (4.327 reviews)
- Noon organ recital recommended
Wednesday: 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM Architectural Buildings • Churches & Cathedrals

This uniquely-designed cathedral was constructed in the early 17th century and was the site of Mozart's baptism in 1756. See more..
4.5 Schloss Hellbrunn (3.012 reviews)
- A worthwhile excursion
Castles

Hellbrunn is a fun place to visit if you have the time. It's a bit out of the city but easy to get to by bus (#25 from the train station). The ticket to the garden with the trick fountains is time stamped although once you are inside you can take as much time as you like. The grounds outside the fountains are free and quite pleasant to wander around on as well. The trick fountains are fun although not as surprising as I expected - for one thing there is no danger of your getting soaked unless you purposefully try as they have staff around operating them on and off. The ones coming out of the seats is in a place where you just sit or stand around to watch - no one would be sitting on the fountain stools when they go off. The ticket includes the little Folk Art museum on a steep hill so that's worth a visit for the view if you don't mind the climb. See more..
4.5 Altstadt von Innsbruck (2.295 reviews)
- Innsbruck exceeds expectations
Historic Sites

The old city district of Innsbruck is interesting, delightful and very walkable. The Goldenes Dachl is one of the main points of interest during any tour but there is so much more to see here. Beautiful architecture. Lovely atmosphere of the pedestrian streets. Interesting churches and monuments. Inviting coffee shops and restaurants. Attention grabbing street performers.Scenic legendary Inn river. Hofburg Palace. Immerse yourself in this city like we did and you will have a beautiful and interesting fun day in Innsbruck See more..
4.5 Untersberg (2.049 reviews)
- Amazing!
Mountains

This is a must do trip while in Saltzburg. Catch the number 25 bus and just get off at the last stop. We were lucky to go on a clear sunny day, in an otherwise rainy week, and the views were stunning. The cable car is speedy, if a little crowded and runs every 10 minutes or so and the little cafe at the top serves food and the obligatory hot chocolate! We used the Saltzburg card which made it excellent value. See more..
4.5 Kitzsteinhorn (1.948 reviews)
- A wonderful experience
Mountains • Ski & Snowboard Areas

The Kitzsteinhorn is legendary: it`s not just a glacier – it`s THE glacier. Salzburg`s highest ski area offers an unparalleleld Alpine experience 365 days a year. It`s here that the winter season begins. Starting in autumn, you`ll already find the perfect snow for a perfect winter sports experience. Whether you`re racing down pristine white slopes or the spectacular off-piste ski routes or on your board in the snowparks, the variety of choices you`ll find is unmatched. See more..
4.5 Red Bull Hangar-7 (1.940 reviews)
- Fun and interesting!
Wednesday: 9:00 AM - 10:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Speciality Museums

Red Bull Hangar-7 Hangar-7 at Salzburg Airport is a unique building which houses the historical Flying Bulls aircraft fleet and a collection of Formula 1 race cars. Hangar-7 also offers space for art exhibitions. And with its Restaurant Ikarus, two bars, an Outdoor Lounge and one café, it is not just an events location, but a meeting point for art lovers and bons vivants, too. See more..
4.5 Eisriesenwelt (1.691 reviews)
- Amazing. Don’t miss it.
Caverns & Caves

This was amazing. I highly recommend everyone who physical fit enough to walk 1400 steps in 1 -1.30 hour to do so. It was a long exhausted day but it worth it. The view from walking up to the cave was so beautiful. The caves can only be visited as part of guided tours offered from May to October. Last day you can visit in 2021 is October 26. Ticket cost 33 euros if you buy at the location but only 30 euro if you buy them online. The shuttle bus leaves at 8:18, 10:18, 12:18, 2:18pm from Werfen train station and come back down 32 minutes after an hour (11:32, 12:32, 1:32, etc). We were thinking that it leave on the hour, so we miss it by 2 minutes. So, better check with them, so you won’t miss the shuttle. The shuttle time is coordinate with a train schedule back to Salzburg. See more..
4.5 St. Anton (1.629 reviews)
- Busy & Popular Ski Village
Ski & Snowboard Areas

One of the more popular ski resorts in the Tirols. See more..
4.5 Ischgl-Samnaun ski area (1.533 reviews)
- Always working hard to improve
Ski & Snowboard Areas

Some ski resort do the bare minimum but this isn’t one of those. Having not been here for a couple of years, we were very impressed with the number of lifts that had been upgraded. Throughout the week, we only rode on one older style chairlift. Most of the new ones have heated Recaro style seats. Whilst we were lucky with the level of snowfall while we were there, this didn’t stop the region regularly using their huge number of snow cannons on the ‘at risk’ areas. I really liked the addition (since we were last here) of the three ‘Smugglers’ ski routes although I think even more should be done to clearly mark the whole routes - not just at the start of each piste. Due to the grading of the slopes, I wouldn’t recommend the region for beginners. See more..
4.5 Wasserspiele Hellbrunn (1.499 reviews)
- Great fun on a hot day
Parks • Fountains

Perfect place to visit on a hot day, but beware no one is safe from getting sprayed with water. Kids loved it and were soaking wet by the end. Be aware that you buy a ticket which has a set time to start the tour of the trick fountains. Our ticket was for around 30 minutes after we arrived on a busy day so I suspect this isn't an issue but book online for a specific time if you don't want to wait. I dislike the fact that they try to take a photo to sell to you. These are all printed whether you buy it or not. Not very environmentally friendly. There is a also a big park with a small children's paddling pool so bring swimming costumes for kids on a hot day. Playground too was good but in direct sunshine. Parking is charged but reasonably priced (€4 for day I think it was). See more..
4.5 Krimml Falls (Krimmler Wasserfalle) (1.485 reviews)
- Amazing, a must if in this area
Waterfalls

Not to be missed. The falls are impressive even if you are only able to view them from the lower point. If you can, take the trail up the side of the falls to the top, or at least to the top of the third fall. The trail is very accessible and suitable for all ages. Plenty of viewing platforms. The restaurant gets very busy, be patient it is worth it if only for the view. Make sure that you allow enough time here, it does take a while to walk up. We are relatively fit and it took us just over the hour. Also, parking, plenty of places, but it is cash only so be prepared. Well worth the entrance fee See more..
4.5 Stubaier Gletscher (1.340 reviews)
- First Time not the Last Time
Wednesday: 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM Ski & Snowboard Areas

The ski resort is run by a group of people devoted to safety, great skiing and a fun atmosphere. The food option are actually world class at the restaurant at the mid-point of the mountain. The adjoining glass circular bar has a roof that opens to let in the see and give a perfect view of the glacier and ski runs. Much more affordable between rentals and lift passes than anywhere in the North American ski resorts. See more..
4.5 Schloss Ambras Innsbruck (1.192 reviews) from $12.85
- Breathtaking!
Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Historic Sites • Castles • Art Museums

The wonderful world of the Renaissance The provincial sovereign of Tyrol, Archduke Ferdinand II (1529-95), son of Emperor Ferdinand l, ordered that the mediaeval fortress at Ambras be turned into a Renaissance castle for his wife Philippine Welser. He also commissioned the building of a separately designed museum complex to house his world-famous collections. Constructed according to the most advanced ideas of its time, it is an eminent precursor of our modern-day museums and has been preserved at its original site to this day. The armouries comprise rare examples of 15th century jousting armour from the collections of Emperor Maximilian I, suits of armour of famous 16th century commanders, the Archduke’s private armour, the armour of the court of Innsbruck, and weapons from the Thirty Years’ War. See more..
4.5 Petersfriedhof (1.179 reviews)
- Peaceful and serene
Spent 1-2 hours Cemeteries

This picturesque cemetery, much of which dates back to the 17th century, provides a secluded spot to escape the bustle of the rest of the city. See more..
4.5 Salzwelten Salzburg (1.109 reviews)
- Awesome experience - must visit!
Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Mines

The Salzburg Salt Mine in Hallein, the oldest mine in the world open to visitors, everyone from the age of four up can take part in a treasure hunt – and follow the mysterious, ancient miners’ tunnels for many kilometres into the mystical mountain. The perfect day trip for families, groups or school classes. See more..
4.5 St. Peter's Abbey (Stift St. Peter) (1.106 reviews)
- Wonderful and beautiful
Wednesday: 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM, 2:30 PM - 6:30 PM Historic Sites • Religious Sites

This medieval monastery has served as the home to monks for over 1,000 years. See more..
4.5 Rosshutte (1.061 reviews)
- Stunning hiking area
Ski & Snowboard Areas

Walking path not for beginners as some areas are pretty steep and or not so easy if you're not fit. Would not recommend for children. You need good hiking shoes as trainers would slide a lot with al the small stones. It takes about 2 hours there and back at medium pace. The scenery during the whole hike is just beautiful :-) See more..
4.5 Schmittenhöhe (1.037 reviews)
- A must if you are at Zell am See
Wednesday: 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM Spent More than 3 hours Mountains • Ski & Snowboard Areas

The Schmitten in Zell am See provides numerous offers on the mountain as well as on Lake Zell. Both in summer and wintertime the focus is family, panorama, sports, enjoyment & art. See more..
4.5 Maria-Theresien-Strasse (1.010 reviews)
- Historic
Historic Walking Areas

This lengthy street contained the Servite Church at which we attended Mass on a Sunday afternoon at 1730 hours, but the night before, we went for a stroll along it. The street has a mix of newer and historic buildings with the iconic superb view seen so often in postcards. There was no rubbish anywhere even though I don't recall seeing rubbish bins. The Golden Roof dating from 1500 had quite a few photographing and videoing it, but my wife was easily able to sneak in to have her photo taken. Because we saw it at dusk, the attached museum was closed. Safety did not seem to be a problem, and it wasn't so crowded that pickpockets would try their luck. See more..
4.5 Haus der Natur (1.001 reviews)
- Gem at Salzburg
Wednesday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Speciality Museums

With the expectation of just visiting to see dinosaurs we have been amazed by the size of the museum. An aquarium, reptile exhibit, insects, human body, space, ice age, and so much more. But definitely also the science lab that allows kids and “young feeling adults “ to experiment and have a great time. Expected to stay for an hour or two, had been there for 5 hours until they had to close the doors for the day. A gem at Salzburg. See more..
4.5 Erlebnisburg Hohenwerfen (923 reviews)
- Fantastic castle with great views and funicular access
Wednesday: 9:30 AM - 4:00 PM Castles

Explore one of the most beautiful fortress in Austria. A refreshing experience awaits you at the over 900-year-old Hohenwerfen Fortress in the Pongau region of Salzburg. On the steep peak, high above the Salzach valley, the gentle breeze from the surrounding mountains caresses your face while peeking through the battlement embrasures. OPENING HOURS: April*: Tue - Sun, 9.30 a.m. – 4.00 p.m. May – September: daily, 9.00 a.m. – 5.00 p.m. 13 July – 14 August: daily, 9.00 a.m. – 6.00 p.m. 1 October* – 8 November*: Tue - Sun, 9.30 a.m. – 4.00 p.m. * Closed Mondays (except holidays) See more..
4.5 Lake Worthersee (913 reviews)
- The Pearl of Carinthia!
Spent 2-3 hours Bodies of Water

A beautiful lake surrounded by green hills with high mountains in the background. We have spent one day visiting several beaches and picturesque villages with old churches located on the shore of this lake, looked at it from the top of Pyramidenkogel Tower. The colour of the water was amazing. Then, on the second day we enjoyed a boat trip from Klagenfurt to the Velden am Wörthersee (and back) to see everything again bat from the water side. Highly enjoyable experience! See more..
4.5 Hofkirche (898 reviews)
- Surprisingly great place to visit
Wednesday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Religious Sites • Monuments & Statues

We aren't religious people at all, therefore have a tendency not to visit too many churches on our vacations. Didn't plan to go to this one, especially not pay for it but it was included in our museum tickets anyway, so we took a look and were pleasantly surprised. The inner yard is looking really nice already thoughit's somewhat simple. Then we went into the church where we were especially impressed by all the statues and their level of details. Additionally there was a little organ music concert. And when we were about to leave a worker asked us if we want to do the multimedia tour about emperor Maximilian. We totally would have missed it but I highly recommend it since it gives you context to the things we saw before. It's a 12 minute tour in 3 rooms and is available in multiple languages. Definitely recommended to do. See more..
4.5 Minimundus (869 reviews)
- Family trip
Speciality Museums • Amusement & Theme Parks

Interesting way to spend the day with your family. Kids enjoyed a lot. The stuff in the restaurant are very nice and polite. Next time I would like to see something from my homecountry Macedonia because we have so much historical objects. See more..
4.5 Dom zu St. Jakob (868 reviews)
- Great cathedral with many cultural highlights
Spent < 1 hour Architectural Buildings • Religious Sites • Churches & Cathedrals

Great cathedral with many cultural highlights. For example the tomb of Maximilian III, the ceiling frescoes and of course the high altar. Located right on the edge of the city center, a visit to the cathedral should be part of every visit to Innsbruck. See more..