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In this post, you’ll read about some beautiful towns and villages in Austria to get you off the beaten path. We’ll discuss the best things to do in each place, as well as when to go and other important recommendations. We’ve also included some beautiful cities that offer some great hidden gems to discover.

Austria has always been one of our favorite countries to visit. We had the pleasure of exploring Vienna and Salzburg, some of the most beautiful cities in Austria. However, we know there are a ton of beautiful towns in Austria that are worth visiting as well, but we just didn’t have the time during our European train trip. If you’re looking to explore Austria off-the-beaten path like we wanted to, this is the article for you!

We asked some of our favorite travel bloggers to share with us the best towns to visit in Austria. We wanted to learn more about the small Austrian towns, villages, and cities to add them to our own bucket list (as well as yours). Hopefully, this will help you plan your trip to discover some of the hidden gems Austria offers.

Since Austria is quite a popular country amongst tourists, it will sometimes be hard to get off the beaten path and find true hidden gems that are worth visiting. But we’re hoping that this article will help you discover some new places that you didn’t have on your itinerary in Austria.

This article may contain affiliate/compensated links. For more information, please see our disclaimer here. We take all the efforts necessary to ensure the information included in this post is accurate, correct and current, sometimes, things just change! Travel information like opening hours, business operations and prices may change. If you find anything in this post that is incorrect or outdated, please let me know in the comments so I can update it for other readers. Cheers!

The best towns and hidden gems in Austria

Austria is a beautiful country. Imposing mountains as far as the eye can see. Lush greenery in the summer and plenty of ski slopes in the winter. A history that is remarkable, to say the least. The people are some of the kindest we’ve met. We know we say this often, but what can we say, we’ve been lucky enough to meet some incredible people on our journey.

Of course, there is something magical about visiting Vienna or Salzburg, some of the most populated cities in Austria. But there is something about these off-the-beaten-path towns, charming villages and lesser-known places in Austria that have something so unique and inspiring. There is magic in discovering these hidden gems in Austria, which is why we wanted to share them with you!

We’ve revised this article to include some new towns and villages with the help of more bloggers. We’ve also broken down the article so you can truly see some hidden gems in Austria that will take you off the beaten path.

We’ve also included some charming towns to add to your itinerary, as well as larger cities that may be overlooked. Just because they’re larger cities, doesn’t mean they are touristy or too busy. Some have great hidden gems to discover.

8 amazing towns in Austria to go off-the-beaten path

In this section, we’ll go over the most picturesque towns in Austria that are hidden gems. These off-the-beaten-path places will show you a different side of Austria, one that not many tourists see. Hopefully, this list will help make your trip to Austria even more unique.

1. Eisenstadt, one of the best towns to visit in Austria

Contributed by Places of Juma

One of the best towns in Austria, which is also off-the-beaten-path, is the charming town of Eisenstadt. It’s the political and cultural center of Burgenland. People love the mix of a long history, cultural events, and a modern outlook of this beautiful town in Austria. Actually, there is a lot to see in the city center between the pedestrian zone, the palace park, and the parliament building (Landhaus). The whole inner city is stuffed with lovely details and many highlights.

Visitors are enchanted by the Esterházy Palace, the main attraction, and the landmark of Eisenstadt. It dates back to a fortified 13th-century Gothic castle. For more than 40 years, the composer Joseph Haydn was inspired by Esterházy Palace’s special atmosphere to create exceptional music to accompany historic events. The Haydn Room, named after the composer, is still one of the world’s best – acoustically – and loveliest concert halls.

The beautiful palace grounds are one of the best places to visit in Austria. On a walk, you will enjoy the lovely botanic garden, a small lake, and even a public pool area. In the summertime, there are many events held, such as the popular Nova Jazz & Blues Festival and the Lovely Days Festival.

The Gloriette (the Esterházys’ former hunting lodge), Haydn’s House, and Haydn’s church, which contains Haydn’s mausoleum and the Stations of the Cross are all worth visiting too. If you love shopping, don’t miss the pedestrian zone where you will find plenty of shopping opportunities, cafes, and restaurants.

The best time to visit Eisenstadt is in spring and in summer when its warm outside and everything is green and beautiful. For a visit, you can plan a day-trip but stay there longer if you also want to explore the lovely Lake Neusiedlersee. If you’re looking for a place to stay, you can find some great accommodations here.

2. Feldkirch, a charming hidden gem in Austria

Contributed by Veronika from TravelGeekery.com

Feldkirch, Austria’s westernmost town in the Vorarlberg province should be on your radar. If you’re considering visiting a charming town that lies off the beaten path in Austria, go to Feldkirch.

From Feldkirch, you can even walk to the border with Liechtenstein – it would take you about 15 minutes only! However, its position is not the only thing that makes Feldkirch an amazing place to visit. If you’re looking for a beautiful Austrian town full of architectural wonders, with cafés and restaurants incl. world-class ones, and are a little bit into sightseeing and greenery, you’ll absolutely love Feldkirch.

Feldkirch’s Market Square lined with colorful merchant houses is where most action’s at. Saturday markets turn it into a lively beehive. Your visit should include plenty of strolling around and discovering former town gates. Feldkirch was on a trade route and it shows not just in the layout of the town but also in the rich architecture. 

A hilltop castle Schattenburg can be found just a stone’s throw (thrown upwards) from the Market Square. It currently houses a museum and even has a small vineyard.

A river called Ill flows through Feldkirch and creates a beautiful promenade made for walking! It also separates the Old Town from the newer and greener part of town.

You can get to Feldkirch easily by train – it directly connects with Vienna and even Zurich in Switzerland. While visiting year-round is easy, if you don’t care for winter and winter sports, you’re best to go enjoy Feldkirch from May to September. 

You can see most things within a day but, if you can, stay at least a night to get a proper feel of Feldkirch and perhaps even discover its surroundings. Day tripping to the cute nearby village of Mellau is highly recommended!

3. Lutzmannsburg, a unique town in Austria that’s off the beaten path

Contributed by Carly from Fearless Female Travels

From the photo, Lutzmannsburg may not look like much. It probably looks like your typical Austrian village, with some fields, farms and old buildings. However, Lutzmannsburg has something that makes it stand out from other villages in Austria. This little town, with a population of about 900 people, just 90 minutes south of Vienna, has something very special: an absolutely massive spa complex called Sonnentherme Lutzmannsburg.

The spa in Lutzmannsburg is absolutely worth a day trip from Vienna (by car) or a two-night stay (if coming by car or public transit). The complex is divided into three sections: Baby World, Adventure World and Sauna World. Baby World includes pools and water features for the youngest visitors, while Adventure World includes water slides (one is the longest in Austria, at 270 meters) and wave pools. 

For adults, though, the highlight will be Sauna World, where you’ll find six different saunas and steam rooms, as well as several different plunge pools and jacuzzis. As with most spas in Central Europe, the Sauna World section is textile-free, which means men and women are not permitted to wear swimsuits (hence why I don’t have a photo of the interior!). 

If you do stay for more than a day (which I totally recommend!), you’ll have time to explore the countryside around the village via a series of well-marked walking and bicycle trails. Most hotels in Lutzmannsburg lend bikes to their guests for free, so you can cycle through the vineyards of Burgenland and even across the border to Hungary (the spa is actually only about 100 meters from the border!). 

For a village of fewer than 1,000 residents, Lutzmannsburg really does have so much to offer and is absolutely worth adding to your Austria itinerary. 

4. St Gilgen, a cute Austrian town to discover

Contributed by Joanna from TheWorldInMyPocket.co.uk

St Gilgen is one of the most beautiful small towns in the Austrian Salzkammergut region. It sits on the shores of Wolfgang Lake and has a wonderful panorama of the Alps in front and behind.

The town is very cute, with typical Alpine buildings framed with wood, and with balconies overflowing with flowers. Sankt Gilgen is like a small paradise for hikers, with plenty of trails around. One of the easiest and most spectacular places to hike in Sank Gilgen is on top of the Zwölferhorn mountain, easily reached in less than 10 minutes by a modern cable car. The trails here are quite easy and suitable for buggies, as well as mountain biking. The panoramic views over St Gilgen and the Wolfgang Lake from up here are incredible. There are also a few mountain restaurants, where you can enjoy a traditional cold cuts plate or a bowl of hot cheese and caramelized onions spaetzle after you finish hiking.

There are plenty of things to do in St Gilgen, from enjoying a day at the beach, sailing on a vintage ship, walking around town admiring the architecture, to hiring your own boat to paddle on the lake.

Getting to St. Gilgen is very easy. The closest large town is Salzburg, from where direct buses leave regularly, connecting the two destinations in less than one hour. If you prefer to drive, there is a large off-road car park just under the cable car, that charges a fixed daily rate.

5. Tragöß-Sankt Katharein, a charming town in Austria with many hidden gems to discover 

Contributed by Adrienn from TravelTipZone.com

Tragöß-Sankt Katharein, a secluded municipality in the Styrian countryside, is a perfect destination for nature lovers. It has a classic Austrian charm, combining beautiful mountains, clean air, clear waters, and Styrian cultural values.

The municipality of Tragöß-Sankt Katharein was only formed in 2015 from ten small villages. The main highlights are located near the village of Oberort: the amazing Green Lake, or Grüner See, and the impressive Marienklamm Gorge.

The Green Lake is a picturesque little mountain lake, considered one of the most beautiful lakes in Austria. Fed by water flowing down from the surrounding mountains, the lake’s water level and color change with the seasons, reaching a depth of several meters in spring and summer and reducing to nearly complete dryness in autumn and winter. The lake is surrounded by stunning rocky mountains, making the scenery truly breathtaking.

Getting to Green Lake is easiest by car; you’ll need to leave your car in a parking lot about a kilometer away and walk to the lake. There’s also plenty to explore on foot, like the Pfarrerteich lake right by the road. Next to Green Lake, you can also find a restaurant, where you can relax and enjoy the local Austrian dishes.

The Marienklamm, also near Oberort, is a lesser-known but very interesting gorge that you can explore by hiking. Visiting the Marienklamm, you can walk along the path between the rock walls to reach places where natural forces have created wonderful shapes. The crystal clear waters and the different rock formations are absolutely stunning.

If you prefer public transport, there are trains from both Graz and Vienna Main Station to Bruck an der Mur, where you can take a bus to Tragöß-Sankt Katharein.

A visit to Tragöß-Sankt Katharein can even be a day trip if you are in Graz, Vienna or Hallstatt, for example. If you visit Austria, don’t miss this area either, as it’s a great place to explore the Austrian countryside.

6. Werfen, an off-the-beaten-path village in Austria made famous by the Sound of Music

Contributed by Audrey of ThatBackpacker.com

Werfen is a small alpine village in Austria set at the foot of the Salzach River just 1 hour south of Salzburg. Getting there is super easy with multiple direct trains running from Hauptbahnhof Salzburg to Werfen, or alternatively, you can connect via Bischofshofen. Its ease of access makes it the ideal destination for a day trip or a weekend escape depending on how much you’re looking to do. 

The town of Werfen is best known as one of the filming locations for The Sound of Music as it’s where Frau Maria taught the children to sing the Do Re Mi song. Visitors can hike The Sound of Music Trail which offers beautiful views of the Salzach Valley and the Austrian Alps.

Another important attraction in Werfen is Hohenwerfen Castle, a medieval castle that was built between 1075 and 1078! The castle can be reached via a funicular or a hiking trail that zigzags through the forest. Once at the castle, visitors can enjoy a guided tour of the chapel, dungeon, arsenal, and clock tower. Plus, the castle also has a falconry demonstration. 

Aside from that, this town is home to the Werfen Ice Caves. Locally known as Eisriesenwelt or ‘World of the Ice Giants’, this is a natural limestone and ice cave inside Hochkogel Mountain. The cave stretches over 42 kilometers making it the largest ice cave in the world, and it can be visited as part of a guided tour. 
While a day trip to Werfen can be enjoyed year-round, certain attractions are seasonal. The ice caves are open from May to October, and the castle is open from April to November, so plan your visit accordingly.

If you plan on spending a day or two here, make sure you book your accommodations a bit ahead of time to ensure you have a better selection.

7. Zederhaus, discover a non-touristy town in Austria

Contributed by Erin from WanderlustWithKids.com 

Nestled in the heart of the country, Zederhaus is a perfect destination for those looking to get off the beaten path in Austria. 

Situated amid the breathtaking landscapes of the Alps, the picturesque village is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts throughout the year. 

In the winter, Zederhaus transforms into a snowy wonderland and its slopes are perfect for skiing and snowboarding. There are also plenty of excellent cross-country ski trails around the area.

In the spring and summer, the lush meadows and mountainous terrain are perfect for hiking and cycling. There’s a variety of trails, which range from easy and intermediate hikes to longer and more challenging trails that are best suited for expert hikers. 

Nearby Naturpark Riedingtal is a beautiful valley with a crystal-clear lake, surrounded by mountains. It’s perfect for hiking in the summer months, no matter whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hiker. 

After hiking or skiing, wander through the quaint town with its classic alpine architecture and traditional Austrian restaurants. The History Museum, or Mühlenweg Zederhaus, is great for a quick visit, with four well-preserved watermills and exhibits explaining local history.

Zederhaus is approximately halfway between Salzburg and Villach, Austria. It’s an easy and scenic drive along the A10 and makes for a great day trip from Salzburg. 

To fully appreciate and experience the beauty that Zederhaus has to offer, three to four days is ideal. This allows you to hike a few trails or ski on the slopes, while still taking the time to relax and appreciate the beautiful surroundings. There are plenty of accommodations to choose from, but Sporthotel Zederhaus is a great option, with modern and spacious rooms, each with a balcony offering stunning views. 

8. Zell am See, one of the best Austrian hidden gem cities to visit

Contributed by Holidays to Europe

You may not have heard of Zell am See but it’s an Austrian town that is well worth a visit. Thanks to its location on the shores of Lake Zell and at the foot of the Kitzsteinhorn and Schmittenhohe mountains, Zell am See makes a great destination at any time of year, especially if you’re looking to get off the beaten path in Austria.

In winter, the Zell am See-Kaprun is one of Austria’s most popular ski regions. In summer, visitors come for watersports, hiking, and exploring the stunning countryside. Either way, there is always plenty to do in this picturesque Austrian town.

Zell am See’s Old Town, with its cobbled streets and 1000-year-old tower, is great for a wander or to enjoy that wonderful Austrian pastime of coffee and cake at one of the many cafes.  

It’s the lakeside promenade, though, which attracts most visitors to Zell am See. During the summer, swimming in the lakeside lido, mini-golf, watersports, and lake cruises are just some of the activities you can enjoy. It’s also possible to walk or cycle the entire 12 kilometers around the lake if you’re keen to get some exercise.

The Gross Glockner High Alpine Road, Krimmler Falls, and Eisriesenwelt ice caves make great excursions from Zell am See.

If you’re visiting during the cooler months and aren’t into skiing or snowboarding, there’s still plenty to do. Why not indulge at a thermal spa or go ice skating?  Or plan your visit for December and shop for gifts at the atmospheric Zell am See Christmas market.

You could easily spend a week in Zell am See but if you only have a day, it is easy to reach from both Innsbruck and Salzburg. Frequent train services operate from both cities, with a journey time of around two hours. If you choose to stay the night, be sure to book your accommodations here.

If you also want to visit some of Austria’s more popular cities, make sure you read our articles:
– How to spend 2 days in Vienna
– The best things to do in Salzburg

13 charming towns to visit in Austria

In this section, we’ll uncover some of the most unique, charming and picturesque towns in Austria. They may not be off-the-beaten-path as some have grown quite a bit in popularity. But each place will help you discover a different part of Austria, something new and exciting. Hopefully, you’ll be able to add some of these cute towns to your Austrian itinerary.

9. Admont, one of the best Austrian mountain villages

Contributed by World of Lina

The gorgeous Styrian town Admont lies in the middle of the Gesaeuse National Park and is around an hour away from the most famous Austrian town, Hallstatt. To visit Admont, it’s best to plan a day trip from the cities of Salzburg or Graz. The town isn’t that big so you can easily combine it with a visit to Hallstatt as well.

Admont is worth a visit all year round but especially in winter, it has its own magical charm thanks to the Christmas decorations on the streets and the surrounding snow-capped mountains. This is what Austrian mountain villages are all about! The easiest way to reach this place is to rent a car and drive there because the train or bus connections from most of the bigger cities are really bad. 

Probably the best thing to do in Admont is the Admont Abbey, a stunning monastery founded in 1704. Not the building itself but what you can find inside makes this monastery truly special. Admont Abbey is home to the largest – and in my opinion most stunning – Abbey library in the world! Beautifully painted frescoes in pastel colors and the typical Baroque style make this library unique.

Besides Admont Abbey, this Austrian town is also the perfect starting point if you want to explore the wonderful nature of Gesaeuse National Park. There are more than 80 different hiking tours to some of the national park’s most popular mountain ranges such as the “Karwendel”.

No matter if you decide to go on a hike or simply stroll around this picturesque Austrian town a bit more, don’t forget to sit down in one of the many cute cafés and enjoy a good cup of coffee in one of Styria’s most lovely towns.

If you plan on staying the night in Admont, you have a few places to choose from in the town itself or nearby. Accommodations seem limited so try to book in advance, if you can.

10. Bad Gastein, a picturesque Austrian ski town

Contributed by Outside Suburbia

Bad Gastein, an Austrian ski and spa town in the High Tauern mountains, is known for its hotels and villas built on the steep, forested slopes. While the area of Bad Gastein has been inhabited and used for gold mining over the years, it is off-the-beaten-path for most travelers, which makes it perfect if you’re looking to avoid the crowds in Austria. It’s one of the most picturesque of the Austrian Alps towns.

It’s a popular destination for families to visit who are looking for winter snow activities. In summer, it’s an Austrian town known for hikes and other mountain adventures. There is a lot to see and experience in the four mountains surrounding Bad Gastein: Stubnerkogel, Schlossalm, Graukogel, and Fulseck. You can go on hikes, ride bikes, and swim in crystal-clear lakes.

We drove from Salzburg to Stubnerkogel in Bad Gastein and combined it with a drive on the high alpine road drive. A drive to Bad Gastien takes about an hour and a half from there. While you can visit the mountain resort as a day trip from Salzburg, you can spend two to three nights to fully appreciate the area. If you choose to spend the night, here are a few places to stay in Bad Gastein.

The best thing to do in Bad Gastein is to walk on the Stubnerkogel suspension bridge. It’s the highest of its kind in Austria, with views of mountains around. We rode the gondolas up the mountain and spent the day hiking in the mountains. Walking on the bridge was not as scary, we just had a few butterflies in our stomachs as we walked over to the viewing platform. The bridge sways a little with the wind!

11. Baden bei Wien, a beautiful spa town in Austria, close to Vienna

Contributed by Larch from TheSilverNomad.co.uk 

Only 20 minutes by train from Vienna is the beautiful spa town of Baden bei Wien. Not only is it one of the Historic European Thermal Towns, but it also has amazing gardens, museums and architecture to explore year-round.

For over 2,000 years, Baden bei Wien has been a spa resort with the Römertherme thermal baths providing spa therapies and wellness treatments. There is also the Thermalstrandbad which is an outdoor thermal lido with a sandy beach reminiscent of a seaside resort. One of the older spa buildings has been transformed into an innovative museum. The Arnulf Rainer Museum retains the spa and changing rooms but integrates the art within it.

Apart from the spas, a big draw to Baden bei Wein is the Beethoven Baden. Ludwig van Beethoven visited the town between 1821 and 1823 and stayed at 10 Rathausgasse. Here, he composed large parts of his Ninth Symphony. It is now a museum to Beethoven, where you can see the rooms he lived in as well as watch videos of his music.

Take time to enjoy a walk in both Kurpark and the Rosarium. The Rosarium is filled with over 30,000 rosebushes of over 900 different varieties. In June, the park is enjoyed by rose lovers who come here from all over the world.

Kurpark is spread on 52 hectares on the hill above Baden bei Wien. The various paths take you up the hill to give you amazing views over the town. There is also a pavilion devoted to Beethoven.

Below Kurpark is Baden Congress Casino. You can go to play a variety of games from slots to blackjack, or have a sumptuous dinner in the dining rooms.

On your walks around Baden bei Wien, look out for the statues and street art. From bronze photographers taking imaginary photos to whole sides of the building.

12. Bregenz, a beautiful town in Austria to visit

Contributed by Tea from CultureTourist.com

Bregenz is a charming town in the westernmost part of Austria – in the Vorarlberg region. With its location between the mountains and one of the largest European lakes, Lake Constance, it’s surrounded by beautiful nature. 

Looking from Bregenz to Lake Constance, you can see three countries: Austria, Germany and Switzerland, which makes it a fantastic cultural meeting place. You can enjoy a beautiful view of Bregenz and the surrounding region while riding a Pfänder Cable Car.

Walking around Bregenz’s Old Town feels like stepping back in the Middle Ages. It’s filled with cobbled streets and old houses decorated with wall paintings and small statues. One of the most impressive buildings there is the Saint Martin Tower (Martinsturm). Home to a museum dedicated to the town’s history, on its top, it has the largest Baroque bulb-shaped tower in Central Europe.

Bregenz is the cultural capital of the Vorarlberg region, home to some fantastic museums and many cultural events. Kunsthaus Bregenz is one of the leading European contemporary art galleries, organizing around four temporary exhibitions each year. Next to it is the Vorarlberg Museum, dedicated to the region’s art, history and culture. 

The best time to visit Bregenz is summer because it’s when the Bregenz Festival is taking place. Its shows are performed on the largest lake stage in the world, whose design is changed every two years.

With so many fun things to do in Bregenz, it’s best to spend the whole weekend in that lovely Austrian town. There are plenty of accommodations to choose from to help you enjoy your time here.

13. Grein, one of the best small towns in Austria you have to visit

Contributed by Mindofahitchhiker.com

Downstream from Linz and upstream from Vienna, you’ll find one of the most picturesque small towns in Austria and along the Danube river. Inside a river bend, Grein is a safe haven for kayakers on the Danube, a resting place for the many cyclists along the Danube Cycleway (Donauradweg), hikers on the Danube Trail (Donausteig), and a port of call for cruise ships.

If you enjoy castles and history, be sure to visit Grein on a day trip from Linz or Krems an der Donau by train with the scenic Donauuferbahn railway, or by bus. Grein is home to the oldest theatre in Austria, the Stadttheater, dating back to the 18th century. The Schloss Greinburg – an active ducal residence – is a very prominent castle on a hill overlooking the town. There’s also a nearby viewpoint situated on a rock called Halterkreuz. 

If you also enjoy hiking, spend a night or two in Grein. Take the quaintest wooden ferry you’ll ever see across the Danube and follow the signs to the hiker’s refuge on top called Brandstetterkogel. There’s a little restaurant where you can enjoy a meal or a beer while you see the cruise ships docking and departing. What more could you ask for in one of the cutest villages in Austria?!

To spice up your hike, continue onward to the Gipfelstein, which features one of the best views of the Austrian Danube. Sturdy footwear is highly recommended for this bit. From that viewpoint, you have the option to return to Grein via the bridge or make it a round trip back to the ferry via the Matrassteig path. This skinny trail brings you past some wacky forest cave with an altar full of little trinkets and garden gnomes. There are huge boulders you’ll have to crawl through or around to get back to the main path to the ferry to Grein.  

If you’re looking to spend the night in this small town in Austria, check out some of the great accommodations in Grein.

Booking.com

14. The Grossglockner/Heiligenblut region, a hidden gem tucked in the Austrian Alps

Contributed by Travelmelodies.com

Heiligenblut/Grossglockner is one of the best regions in Austria if you yearn to spend time close to nature and away from the crowds. Grossglockner High Alpine Road – a scenic stretch of 48 km with winding 36 hairpin bends takes you from Salzburg to Heilingenblut in Carinthia. If you’re looking to explore the Austrian countryside, this is the place for you!

The road leads you to the dizzy heights of Austria’s tallest mountain, the Grossglockner, through the heart of the Hohe Tauren National Park. This journey is one of the best ways to experience the beauty of Austria. It’ll take you by surprise as you drive past the Alpine meadows, mountain forests, frozen lakes, and snow-laden cliffs. The beauty of these Austrian mountain villages will take your breath away.

It’ll take you anywhere between 2 to 3 hours to drive the entire stretch, including the time spend at stop-offs. A day ticket to drive the road costs €36.50 per car.

One of the most widely recognized sites in Austria, Wallfahrtskirche St Vinzenz, set against the mountain of Grossglockner welcomes you to the pretty town of Heiligenblut. The town offers hiking opportunities during summers like the Alpa-Adria trail and ski opportunities during winter. You can also experience the history of gold mining at the gold mining village in the Alps, in the Fleiss Valley near Heiligenblut.

The best time to visit Heiligenblut/Grossglockner region is from May to October as it’s the only time you can drive the Grossglockner High Alpine Road. If you want to visit the ski resort Grossglockner Heiligenblut then winter is, of course, the time to visit. You can visit Heilegenblut through Möll Valley from Munich, Udine, Klagenfurt, and Kufstein.

I’d recommend you spend two to three days in the region to take in the beauty it has to offer. You can check out the accommodations here for Heiligenblut.

15. Mariazell, another one of the beautiful hidden gems in the Austrian Alps

Contributed by Bulgarianonthego.blog

Located only about a 2-hour drive from Vienna and 1.5 hours from Graz, nestled in the beautiful Alps of northern Styria, you will find one of Austria’s hidden gems – Mariazell. The town of Mariazell may not be as popular as other places in Austria, but it’s definitely starting to attract more and more visitors, and this is not surprising. 

If you’re already in Vienna, you can take bus 169 from the main station (Hauptbahnhof) and get off at Mariazell Bahnhof. The journey will take about 3 hours. You could also take a train from Vienna, however not a direct one – you would need to change at St. Pölten. Either way, a trip to the Austrian countryside is well worth it.

Mariazell is known as the Danube region’s catholic spiritual center. Here, you will find the most famous shrine to the Blessed Virgin Mary. The small chapel of the statue has given Mariazell its name – ‘Mary in the cell’. Even if you’re not brought to the city for religious reasons, there is still so much to enjoy.

Some of the most important landmarks include the Mariazell Basilica and the picturesque old town, as well as the Erlaufsee – an alpine crystal lake, located only about 5 km from Mariazell. These are some of the best things to do if you want to explore Austria off the beaten path.

Mariazell is great to visit both in the warmer and in the colder months. If you come here in December, you will be able to see the beautiful Christmas market of Mariazell and practice some winter sports in the mountains nearby. It’s one of the best towns to visit in Austria for this.

If you come during summer, you’ll have the opportunity to swim in the Erlaufsee and enjoy the lovely weather in the Austrian Alps. I would personally recommend visiting Mariazell as a day trip since the city’s main attractions can easily be explored within a day. If you choose to spend the night, you can reserve your accommodations here.

16. Mayrhofen, a charming town to discover in Austria

Contributed by Kylie from BetweenEnglandAndIowa.com

A great town to visit in Austria is Mayrhofen, located approximately 1 hour from Innsbruck via car or 1 hour 30 by train. Summer in Mayrhofen is the perfect time to visit, benefiting from lower accommodation and activity costs, compared to those in the winter season. 

Mayrhofen sits in the Zillertal Valley, once formed by the Ziller River that flows through the town. It has plenty of things to see and do in the surrounding area. 

There are two cable car stations right in the center of the town. One goes up to Mount Penken on one side of the valley and the other to Mount Ahorn on the opposite side. Once up the top, there are plenty of hiking routes to choose from as well as various other attractions. Lake Ahorn sits at 2,000 m above sea level!

Hauptstraße is the main street in Mayrhofen, with plenty of cafes, bars, restaurants, and shops selling everything you could need for exploring the surrounding mountains. Many of the buildings are typical traditional Austrian chalets, with beautiful wooden balconies, covered in brightly colored flowers. Pfarrkirche is the main church in Mayrhofen, with its origins dating back to the 14th century (it has been rebuilt a few times due to fires).

It’s worth spending a few days in Mayrhofen, as it is a good base for exploring the smaller villages on either side of the town. Zell am Ziller has an amazing mountain-top park with an alpine coaster. Deeper into the valley is Hintertux, home of the Hintertux Gletscher, where it’s possible to ski 365 days of the year. There’s even an ice cave that has guided tours.

Be sure to book your accommodations ahead of time to make the best of our days in this beautiful Austrian town.

17. Mittelberg, one of the best villages in Austria to explore Kleinwalsertal

Contributed by Travellersarchive.de

If you cross the Walserschanze, which represents the German-Austrian border, holidaymakers can enjoy a view of one of the most beautiful high mountain valleys in the Austrian Alps: the Kleinwalsertal.

The Austrian Kleinwalsertal, which can only be reached from Germany, with its four towns of Riezlern, Hirschegg, Mittelberg, and Baad lies at an altitude of between 1,086 m – 1,244 m and promises a great holiday for every taste.

The valley was settled around 1270 by Walsern, an ethnic group that migrated from the upper Valais (Switzerland). The dialect has been preserved quite well and differs significantly from the neighbors in Vorarlberg or Allgäu.

With around 5,000 inhabitants, the valley is divided into 4 villages: Riezlern, Hirschegg, Mittelberg and Baad. The Kleinwalsertal covers an area of ​​97 km². It is about 15 km long and about 6.5 km wide. The municipality is named after Mittelberg. At the highest point of the village in Austria is the parish church of St. Jodok with the oldest church tower in the Kleinwalsertal, immediately behind is the Lourdes Chapel from 1897.

Mittelberg and the surrounding nature are perfect for everyone who wants to switch off from everyday stress and instead want to immerse themselves in nature. Whether for hiking, cycling or eating out with a view, Mittelberg is the perfect starting point. The best time to visit this region of Austria is certainly summer, preferably in May and June, when the meadows are in bloom. We would recommend staying four to seven days to discover Mittelberg.

18. Mondsee, one of the best towns to visit in Austria

Contributed by travelhackergirl.com

Mondsee is a really cute Austrian town, which is part of the famous Salzkammergut region. It makes a great day trip from Salzburg. Thanks to the amazing cycling infrastructure in the area, you could even ride your bike there. It is about 30 km through the scenic Austrian countryside. It can’t get any better than that!

However, Mondsee and the nearby area have a lot to offer, so you could easily spend a week there. The town is located on the shore of Lake Mondsee. In the summer the lake is perfect for recreational activities, like sailing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. There is also a beautiful beach in the town with water slides, an inflatable water playground, and a diving tower. It attracts many visitors on a hot day. The promenade next to the lake is a popular place for organizing events, like music festivals, family fairs, and fireworks. With so much to see and do, it’s really one of the best cities to visit in Austria.

Many tourists enjoy going on relaxing boat rides on the lake. You can purchase tickets from the box office at the promenade. The town is surrounded by impressive mountain peaks, so of course, hiking is very popular as well.  Zwölferhorn is a well-known one, but if you want to get off the beaten path, then you might prefer a hike to Filbling. Of course, you shouldn’t skip sightseeing in the town either.

The historic market square of Mondsee with its baroque citizen houses and the abbey is well worth a visit. In the winter the area gets a lot of snow. There are many ski resorts, winter hiking trails and sled runs for adventure lovers. 

If you plan on staying the night in Mondsee, make sure you book your accommodations here.

19. Saalbach-Hinterglemm to visit some of the best ski towns in the Austrian Alps

Contributed by Josiewanders.com

Saalbach-Hinterglemm is best known as a winter ski location, claiming over 270km of piste runs and 70 lifts. The villages of both Saalbach and Hinterglemm make great locations for the perfect winter holiday.

You will find cute little cafes and pubs with roaring fires to warm you up after a day on the slopes. The towns are also small enough to offer plenty of ski-in/ski-out style accommodation too.

Only recently the area has also started to be “open for business” over summer. Some of the lifts are now running for a summer season, where the hiking some of the 400km of trails in the Alps is just magical.

Make sure to grab a snack or drink at one of the many traditional mountain alms as you hike to any of the peaks for stunning views. There are also plenty of other summer activities for both adults and kids, from mountain biking to a water park. Hire an e-bike and cycle through the area enjoying the many trails. There is something for everyone in these Austrian Alps mountain villages.

During both seasons, there are many events occurring in the region to offer even more entertainment and value, from concerts, dance parties and sports carnivals, to charity events and Christmas markets.

Saalbach-Hinterglemm is about 20km down a picturesque valley from the nearby town of Zell am See. While a car is ideal, there is a bus that runs from the Zell am See railway station to make access easy. You could day-trip to Saalbach-Hinterglemm from Zell am See, or stay in the area for a few days to really soak up the Austrian mountain atmosphere, which is idyllic at any time of the year. If you choose to stay the night, be sure to book your accommodations here.

Booking.com

20. St Johann im Pongau, a ski resort town worth visiting year-round

Contributed by Michael from TimeTravelTurtle.com

Just 50 kilometers south of Salzburg, the small town of Sankt Johann im Pongau is a relatively popular ski destination for Austrians – largely because it’s just off the highway, making it easy to access for a weekend trip. But in the warmer months, the melting snow reveals a whole range of activities that make this a worthwhile destination for any traveler.

The center of town has several historic buildings, particularly the striking Pongau Cathedral, and there’s a nice community feel here. But the best things to do in St Johann im Pongau are in the surrounding nature.

There are almost 20 official walking trails around the town, ranging from a few hundred meters along the river to a 20-kilometer route between mountain peaks. I think the best one is the walk up the Hochgründeck, which can be done as a return trip in half a day, including a meal at the charming mountaintop inn.

Another highlight is the Liechtensteinklamm, the longest and deepest gorge in the Alps. You’ll walk down into the bottom of the ravine, including along the helix-shaped staircase, to where the walls rise up 300 meters on either side. A path leads along the gorge to views of waterfalls and dramatic cliff faces.

While it’s possible to visit St Johann im Pongau as a day trip from Salzburg, there’s also wonderful accommodations here that is usually quite affordable in the warmer months and usually has wellness facilities like pools and saunas.

St Johann im Pongau is easily accessible by car, about a 50-minute drive from Salzburg, 2.5 hours from Innsbruck, or 4 hours from Vienna. If you’re coming by public transport, there are regular trains that stop at the town’s station, including direct trains from Salzburg – and even also from Munich or Frankfurt.

21. St. Wolfgang im Salzkammergut, a unique town in Austria

Contributed by Darekandgosia.com

Every year, thousands of tourists visit picturesque small towns across Austria. Each has a unique charm and special atmosphere set away from the bustle of everyday life. If you’re looking for a unique town to visit in Austria, head out to St. Wolfgang im Salzkammergut!

The best way to get to St. Wolfgang is to drive from Salzburg. It only takes 50 min to drive to St. Wolfgang, and luckily, the scenery of the Austrian countryside is stunning. Best of all, you will drive through a few other beautiful towns like St Gilgen or Strobl. So make sure you make a pit stop if you have the time.

The Austrian town of St. Wolfgang lies on the turquoise Lake Wolfgangsee, from which grows the majestic Osterhorngruppe mountain range along with the most popular mountain – Schafberg.

Schafberg is probably the number one attraction in St. Wolfgang! You can go to the top of the mountain by rack railway. The journey takes about 40 minutes and costs €40.80 return. It’s a bit pricey but totally worth spending that money to ride the world’s oldest steam locomotives. Once at the top, the views are breathtaking! You won’t see anything like this in all of Austria. You have to love these Austrian mountain villages and their epic views.

St. Wolfgang is worth visiting not only because of the famous Schafberg mountain. The town also offers numerous attractions ranging from balloon flights to water sports and climbing. In winter, however, it’s a popular skiing center, and its extensive catering facilities will satisfy the most demanding tourists.

Make sure you keep a whole day for your trip to St. Wolfgang. Alternatively, you can also stay in the town for longer as the town provides a great accommodation range. Are you ready to visit this beautiful town?

4 great cities to discover in Austria

Your trip to Austria might also include stops in a few cities that are worth visiting. These are some of the most beautiful cities in Austria that are worth the detour.

They may be larger and not as picturesque as the towns on this list, but each of these cities has something unique to offer, including many hidden gems.

22. Graz, a large city in Austria with plenty of hidden gems

Contributed by Lavina from ContinentHop.com

Graz is the second biggest city in Austria and also the country’s culinary capital. It is a beautiful mix of both modern and traditional while giving off soothing Mediterranean vibes. 

Graz has it all, with its beautiful red rooftops, ancient courtyards along with the new Museum of Modern Arts. From palaces, castles and museums to more modern pubs, restaurants and legendary nightlife, Graz is a unique city in Austria.

The old town of Graz is a Unesco world heritage site. The best time to visit Graz is during spring and summer when the weather is comfortable for you to explore as much as you like. Although during the winter, you can enjoy the famous Austrian Christmas markets 

Along with Graz, there is also a lot that Austria has to offer. If you are in Graz, you can take a couple more days to explore the rest of Austria. A 5-day Austria itinerary would help you plan your perfect Austria getaway.

Graz is around two and a half hours away from Vienna and you can easily take a train from Vienna to Graz, making it the perfect day trip.

While in Graz, you can take the Schlossberg cable car to enjoy the most famous view of Graz or visit the famous Clock Tower. You can also take a walk around the town to explore the colorful buildings of Graz.

Other must-sees include the Hauptplatz with its surrounding food trucks. The Eggenberg Palace is a part of the World Heritage Site. The park which surrounds the Palace is perfect for a quiet walk.

Traveling from east to west through Murinsel which is part island and part bridge, you can clearly feel the transition from the more traditional side of the town to the modern. There, you can discover beautiful street art in this part of the city.

Two or three days will be enough for you to explore this wonderful city to its fullest while having enough time to rest as well. There are plenty of accommodations to choose from to make your trip to Graz more enjoyable.

23. Innsbruck, one of the most picturesque cities in the Austrian Alps

Contributed by Merrylstravelandtricks.com

Tucked away in the southern region of Austria in the heart of the Alps is the pretty town of Innsbruck. This beautiful Austrian town situated at a height of 574 meters above sea level is also the capital of the region of Tyrol. Innsbruck makes for a perfect cultural and adventure sports destination in the Austrian countryside.

The region around Innsbruck offers various beautiful hikes, biking paths, and skiing loops that make it a popular winter and summer destination for those who love adventure. Throughout the year, this Austrian village sees a flow of local and international tourists looking for an exciting vacation. Additionally, the little town is also known for its imperial and modern architecture. The Golden Roof and the Imperial Palace are the top things to see in Innsbruck. The Tirol Panorama museum is also a popular destination that offers stunning views of the Bergisel Olympic ski jump.

Innsbruck is easily accessible from Vienna by flight, train, or bus, and from Salzburg by bus or train. You could also choose to drive to Innsbruck from Salzburg or Bolzano in northern Italy. The journey through the Austrian Alps is extremely scenic making it one of the best ways to get to the town.

The best time to visit Innsbruck is in winter as the winter sports in the region are highly popular with skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts. The town also has a special charm around Christmas time with beautiful Austrian-style Christmas Markets adorning the city center. The stalls in the market sell an assortment of local Christmas special dishes from the region.

If you want to spend the night in Innsbruck, make sure you check out the accommodations here. If you’re looking to explore one of the best villages in Austria, this is the place for you!

24. Leoben, one of the most beautiful cities in Austria

Contributed Martina from PlacesofJuma

Leoben is a charming city in the heart of Styria and definitely one of the most beautiful places in Austria. Visitors love the fascinating mix of history, culture and the natural beauty of the green surroundings. Leoben is also a student town, so tradition blends with a hip lifestyle. Its rich mining heritage is also well known.

A real highlight is the beautiful old town of Leoben. Here you will find a picturesque main square surrounded by colorful historic buildings. There are numerous cobblestone streets, inviting cafés and quaint shops that convey a sense of timelessness. Adding to the picturesque atmosphere, the River Mur flows through the center of the city. One of the most beautiful sights is the Wassenbrücke, a charming bridge that leads to the famous Schwammerlturm-Tower. There is a small café at the top of the tower, offering a wonderful view.

The historical importance of the town is reflected in the 13th century Gösser Abbey and the impressive ruin of Leoben Massenburg. If you would like to learn more about the history of this town, you should also visit the Kunsthalle Leoben. Moreover, the surroundings of Leoben are also interesting. You should visit Erzberg Mountain, a famous mining site. The Erzberg open pit mine is an impressive sight and offers guided tours that delve into the history and modern operations of this huge iron ore mine.

Visitors can reach Leoben by train from Graz or Vienna or by public bus. The best time to visit is from May to September when the weather is pleasant and outdoor exploration is optimal. But also Christmas time with the beautiful Advent market on the main square is an experience. A stay of 2 days is recommended to explore the city of Leoben as well as the Erzberg. There aren’t that many accommodations to choose from so if you want to stay somewhere specific, make sure to book ahead of time.

25. Linz, an off-the-beaten-path city in Austria worth visiting

Contributed by Kamila from MyWanderlust.pl 

Even if Linz, the capital of the Upper Austria region, is the third largest city in the country, not many tourists decide to visit it. They often believe that it’s an industrial place with not much to see and do. 

This is definitely not true – there are so many great things to do in Linz that you can enjoy and have a great time in this underrated city. 

The area of Linz was already inhabited in prehistoric times and still today you can find numerous historical sites in the city, such as the castle, originally dating back to medieval times. 

The center of the city is really pleasant, perfect for a lazy stroll, with numerous cafes and restaurants where you can sit, relax, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. The heart of Linz is Hauptplatz, the main square where you will find some of the most beautiful townhouses, as well as the most popular landmark in the city – the beautiful Holy Trinity column from the early 18th century, a masterpiece of Baroque architecture. 

Linz is also home to the largest church in Austria – the stunning Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception (however, it is not the tallest one, that title belongs to the St. Stephen’s Cathedral in Vienna). 

But Linz is more than just historical sites, you can also find interesting modern museums, cultural centers or industrial sites that have become open-air galleries. There are so many diverse attractions in Linz that everyone can find something to enjoy. 

Since Linz is located only around 200 km west of Vienna, with frequent and fast train connections, it’s very easy to visit the city, either as a day trip from the capital or as a weekend city break destination. There are plenty of accommodations to choose from in Linz, something for every taste and budget.

Sustainable travel and ecotourism in Austria

As always, we want to be sure everyone practices sustainable travel in Austria, but all over the world. That’s why we always share these tips to help you travel in the most eco-friendly way possible! Ecotourism is so important because it helps lower our carbon footprint, it helps travel become less of a burden on the environment, and it helps preserve our beautiful planet, so future generations can explore the beauty of the world.

Here are our tips to help you practice sustainable travel in Austria:

1. Bring reusable water bottles and coffee mug: Tap water in Austria is safe to drink, and it’s one of the cleanest in the world. So make sure you bring a reusable water bottle that you can fill up (we always have our Lifestraw Go with us!) And if you love to drink coffee, make sure you bring your reusable coffee mug too! This is the best way to reduce your plastic consumption and to sustainably travel all over the world!
2. Eat as local and vegan as you can: This is the easiest way to reduce your environmental footprint. Eat as much local produce and food as possible, and especially, eat all the vegan options you can! It’s a delicious and easy way to reduce your carbon footprint.
3. Support small local restaurants and eateries: If you eat out, go to locally-owned restaurants. Avoid big chains or restaurants owned by conglomerates. Go off the beaten path with your restaurant choice by asking locals for their best recommendations.
4. Bring your own bags and refuse plastic bags: Like most places, they still offer plastic bags in grocery stores, at the local markets, and at various shops. So bring your own bag and do your little step to promote ecotourism in Austria and to save our beautiful planet!
5. Walk or bike around: We walked all around Vienna, Salzburg, and other parts of Austria. We had a great time getting lost in the streets. It helped that our hotels were so centrally located to all the main attractions. If walking is not your thing, we saw a ton of bikes and scooters that were part of a ride-sharing program. You can easily get around the city using one of those services
6. Use public transportation to get around the cities in Austria: The subways and trams in Vienna are some of the most efficient and cleanest we’ve seen in the world. It’s very easy to get around the city using public transportation. It’s cheap (especially if you get one of the 24-48h passes). No need to rent a car or take taxis around!
7. Take the train to get from city to city in Austria: Another great way to cover long distances in Austria, if you’re traveling from town to town, is to use the train. They are extremely clean and punctual. They take the stress out of traveling, and they’re the most eco-friendly way of getting around!
8. Stay in eco-hotels or small locally-owned hotels in Austria: Another great way to promote ecotourism in Austria is to stay in smaller, locally-owned hotels, or better yet, to stay in eco-hotels. There are a ton of great options available, so make sure you check these options first!

Here are 25 best towns and cities to visit in Austria

There you have it! The best towns and villages to visit in Austria. Whether you’re looking to explore the picturesque Austrian countryside, or if you want to go on an adventure in the Austrian mountain villages in the Alps, we hope that this list will help show a different side of this beautiful country.

1. Eisenstadt
2. Feldkirch
3. Lutzmannsburg
4. St Gilgen
5. Tragöß-Sankt Katharein
6. Werfen
7. Zederhaus
8. Zell am see
9. Admont
10. Bad Gastein
11. Baden bei Wien
12. Bregenz
13. Grein
14. Grossglockner/Heiligenblut region
15. Mariazell
16. Mayrhofen
17. Mittelberg
18. Mondsee
19. Saalbach-Hinterglemm
20. St Johann im Pongau
21. St. Wolfgang im Salzkammergut
22. Graz
23. Innsbruck
24. Leoben
25. Linz

Although we absolutely loved Vienna and Salzburg, there is something about discovering Austria’s hidden gems and going off the beaten path that just excites us about our next trip to this beautiful country. With so many different things to explore, beautiful towns to discover, and people to meet, how could we not get excited?!

Let us know in the comments if there are any other towns in Austria that should have made this list. Where are you most excited to go?

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