an independent travel guide about Austria
The contrasts in the Salzkammergut region are significant not only because the landscape alternates between massive mountain ranges, glaciers, lush valleys, and many lakes. But also because the region offers a rich cultural landscape characterized by more than 5,000 years of human activity. The Salzkammergut holiday region covers 58 municipalities in three states (Salzburg, Upper […]
We are not in the tropics but in southern Austria, where the river Mur forms part of the border with Slovenia. This landscape, a combination of floodplains and forest, is very unlike what we expect from mostly alpine Austria. Nonetheless, we were pleasantly surprised when we arrived. Austria’s second-largest river landscape The river Mur makes […]
Austria is a small country with short distances, good roads and well-developed tourist infrastructure. Moreover, you can find outlets from most international car rentals in Austria, and there are several local companies as well. Great fly-drive holiday destination Just like in most European countries, driving and parking within the larger cities in Austria can be […]
The Mostviertel region in the southeastern part of Lower Austria offers a wide range of activities and is an all-year travel destination. Notwithstanding, I especially love travelling in the region in early springtime. Mostviertel is a great place to hike, but if you visit only for a few days, I recommend driving. Pear tree blossom […]
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The first train stop on my winter tour through Austria was Zillertal, Tyrol. After a few days in fantastic Vienna, I was looking forward to hitting the slopes. Moreover, the winter had taken a firm hold on the Austrian Alps in late February, and there was abundant snow. Chilly but great fun The skiing conditions […]
A list of suggestions on what to do on the weekend in Vienna could easily have been almost endless. Notwithstanding, we have collected a few places and sights in Vienna to show you the variety available. Moreover, our recommendations should suit most people, regardless of age. Our suggestions are not mere tourist traps but activities […]
Just north of Salzburg, bordering Bavaria and Upper Austria, a charming region of lakes among farmland, and rolling hills, dotted with idyllic villages forms a little lake district. The four lakes, Grabensee, Obertrumer See, Mattsee, and Wallersee, are located in the middle of the region and are the main attraction in this delightful tourist destination. […]
Temperatures fall, and the days get shorter, but Vienna never falls asleep. The weather can vary between 10 °C and -15 °C in January. Within a few days, you can experience sun from a clear blue sky to bitterly cold snowstorms. Nonetheless, there are plenty of activities to enjoy whatever nature throws. Furthermore, enjoy a […]
Our first visit to Burg Deutschlandsberg was on a grey and cloudy day, which gave the Castle a slightly scary appearance. This is probably the meaning of a castle, anyway. However, we later visited the Castle several times on lovely sunny summer days, when it showcased itself from a more welcoming side. Hotel, restaurant, and […]
Weinebene is the highest point (1668 m / 5472 ft) in the pass over the Koralpen, where the east-west road between Deutschlandsberg in Styria and Wolfsberg in Carinthia crosses over. Instead of pointed peaks, the ridges along the mountain range are broad and rounded. We have tested a few more accessible hiking opportunities starting from […]
The House of Habsburg ruled Austria for 640 years, from 1278 to 1918 and has left its mark on Vienna forever. The historic buildings they left behind are among Vienna’s most popular tourist sights. However, it is not just the buildings themselves that are exciting sights. In addition to functioning as public offices, many historic […]
A study by IMAS showed that 9 out of 10 Austrians think protecting and keeping Austrian traditions alive is vital. Many traditions are connected to the catholic church, others are part of rural folklore, and some celebrate the end of harvest time. Nonetheless, most of these festivities are lively, colourful, and folksy, with a high […]