Nestled away amongst the Alps, Austria is an incredible country to visit that boasts a dramatic array of landscapes, scenery, and views. As well as its sophisticated capital Vienna, there is the scenic city of Salzburg for you to explore while charming towns and villages are dotted here and there amidst its lakes, valleys, and mountains.
Set right in the heart of Central Europe, it is surrounded clockwise by Czechia, Slovakia, Hungary, Slovenia, Italy, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, and Germany. Very mountainous for the most part, its landlocked landmass is riddled with alpine lakes and expansive valleys while rolling foothills and picturesque farmland coat about a quarter of its territory.
Packed with grand buildings, impressive historic sights and opulent opera houses, Vienna is one of Europe’s most elegant and attractive capitals. Set alongside the banks of the Danube, it serves as the economic, cultural, and political center of the German-speaking country with millions visiting each year to explore its imperial past, listen to operas and wander about its many magnificent museums.
The other main city of interest is Salzburg which is also known for its rich music scene, exceptional architecture, and stunning alpine backdrop. While the larger cities of Linz, Graz and Innsbruck also attract lots of people with their historic churches, museums, and monuments, it is the fairytale town of Hallstatt with its gorgeous lakeside setting that is probably the most popular of the lot.
Due to all its majestic mountains, Austria has long been known as a wintersports destination with its resorts being packed with skiers and snowboarders in the cold winter months. Summer though lends itself perfectly to hiking and mountain biking while some superb swimming can be enjoyed in its myriad of enticing lakes such as Achensee, Wolfgangsee and Lake Constance.
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