Charming villages, lush green landscapes, views of blue Lakes and the magnificent Alps, as well as elegant baroque architecture - Austria has everything you need for a fabulous holiday. Fine THERE presents for you the top 10 cities in Austria.

1 Salzburg

We have to admit that this is one of the most beautiful places in all of Central Europe, and it will not be difficult for you to put Salzburg at the top of your list of the best cities in Europe. Salzburg has had enough time to reach the beauty that reigns here now. well survived Old city is on the UNESCO list, and fans of baroque architecture will not find best place. What is worth the fact that Salzburg is the birthplace of Mozart, the great composer of classical music, and it was here that the famous film "The Sound of Music" was filmed. Be sure to visit Salzburg and enjoy the atmosphere of this delightful city.

2 Feldkirch

Located in the westernmost corner of Austria, Feldkirch borders both Switzerland and Liechtenstein and is worth visiting for its impressive medieval center alone. The mountains that tower around it add to the effect and you can just wander through the old streets and envy the people who were lucky enough to grow up in such a beautiful place. Feldkirch first began to figure as a city in 1218, Feldkirch is a perfect example of a city that used to be located around the Central European region. IN sunny weather enjoy a drink on central square and you will feel like you are in paradise.

3 St Gilgen

Located on a very colorful lake Wolfgangsee, in the vicinity of the Salzkammergut mountain range. St Gilgen certainly has all the natural beauty you could expect. However, the fact that this medieval city, full of colorful old buildings, doesn't hurt the cause. It began to develop as a tourist destination at the end of the 19th century, at a time when the rich inhabitants of Vienna began to build their summer houses here. St. Gilgen is somewhat associated with Mozart, although he never visited this place, his mother was born here, and his other relatives lived here.

4 Innsbruck

There is really something to see in Innsbruck. First of all, this is its position in the Alps, where guests can constantly contemplate stunning views, and there is also a great opportunity for skiing or snowboarding. Innsbruck is the capital of the Austrian state of Tyrol and there are many stately buildings along the river Sill and in the center. However, after the Anschluss, in which Germany took over Austria on the eve of World War II, Innsbruck was badly damaged by prolonged bombing, so most of the buildings you see now are reconstructions. Innsbruck hosted the Winter Olympic Games in 1964, 1976 and 2012 (the first Winter Youth Olympic Games).

5 Hallstatt

Hallstatt has become a favorite destination for people from all over the world due to its extremely striking location right on Lake Hallstatt. Until the 19th century, the beautiful Austrian town of Hallstatt could only be reached by boat or mountain path. Today, this popular tourist destination is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The people of Hallstatt are proud of their history and lovingly care for and maintain the old houses they live in today. To visit Hallstatt is to experience a long and fascinating history.

6 Durnstein

Dürnstein is one of those charming little towns you'll come across when you take a cruise on the Danube, but it's worth stopping by to see it in its entirety. Here it is medieval castle, hanging over the river, dating back to at least the 10th century, and in the center are many fine buildings of all kinds of architectural styles. Also worth mentioning is that Dürnstein is located right in the middle of the main Austrian wine region, so you can taste some of the wine that is popular in Austria. The most famous varieties are dry white wines, especially Gruner Veltliner.

7 Alpbach

Despite the fact that the town is quite small in terms of population, Alpbach has become very popular due to its beauty. He was recognized as the most beautiful village in the country in 1983 and named the most beautiful flower village in Europe in 1993. Despite being hidden in the Alps, a huge number of travelers come here every year to enjoy its charm. This is also a ski resort, and every year the European Alpbach Forum takes place here, which for two weeks brings together like-minded people in the world of politics, science, business and art to exchange experiences. For those who are fond of the history of science, this is the point where you can see the burial place of Schrödinger, an outstanding figure in theoretical physics.

8 Krems an der Donau

Krems is located where the Danube and Krems rivers meet, its first mention in writing appears in 996. However archaeological excavations testify that the area was inhabited many millennia before. During the heyday of the 11th and 12th centuries, Krems was almost as large as Vienna. You should visit its magnificent Old Town. Since Krems is located in a wine region, it is perfect for wine tasting. However, the city is primarily a place where apricot cognac is produced, so this is the first drink you should try upon arrival.

9 Bad Gastein

While the Bad Gastein region was inhabited and used for thousands of years for gold mining, it still became famous as resort town at the end of the 19th century thanks to its hot springs. Tsars, kings, queens and chancellors have all enjoyed the healing properties of Bad Gastein. To please the royal guests, the city was built in the grandiose Belle Époque style you can still see in the buildings. You can also visit the bathhouse to appreciate the local healing treatments enjoyed by monarchs over a century ago, or you can visit in the winter to enjoy a variety of winter sports.

10 Lienz

The townspeople themselves call their city "Sun Town". Lienz is located in the Austrian province of Tyrol, not far from the border with Italy. People have been living here since the Bronze Age, which is almost 4000 years, and during this time the city has changed a lot. During its long history it has belonged to: the Roman Empire, the Habsburg Monarchy and Nazi Germany. And nowadays, walking around Lienz, you can notice the architecture of those times, which is complemented by the natural beauty of the mountains and the green landscapes that surround it.

Amateurs come to Austria every year active rest, since it is here that the world-famous ski resorts are located. The "Land of the Lakes" and the Tyrolean villages are also the most visited and beautiful places this country, of which there are many.

Vein

If it is not possible to come to Austria for a long time, and the question arises of which city to stay in, then, of course, Vienna should be chosen. It is a stunning city and the capital of Austria. Only here you can feel the life of the Austrians even in a couple of days, get acquainted with the past and see all the beauty of the nature of Austria.

The number of attractions and beautiful places in Vienna is impossible to count. The symbol of the city is the Cathedral of St. Stephen, the patron saint of Vienna, built over 800 years ago. The cathedral is incredibly beautiful both externally and internally, and under it are the catacombs where members of the Habsburg dynasty are buried.

With sights such as the Peitzeuile Column and the Peterskirche Church, the Graben is known as the "heart of Vienna". In addition to the above, everyone who arrives in the city should definitely see the Josefplatz Square with the Palace Chapel, the statue of Pallas Athena in front of the parliament building, the Church of St. Ruprecht, Schönburn Palace, and also visit the famous Vienna Opera.

The parks of Vienna are favorite places for recreation of guests and local residents. Each park is unique not only in its appearance, but also in its purpose. So, the Prater is famous for its excellent restaurants and the world's largest Ferris wheel, and the Augarten is famous for its concerts and performances.

But the most beautiful place in Vienna is undoubtedly the Vienna Woods, a park located near the Eastern Alps. Vienna Woods is not just a park, but a whole complex with its own hotels, restaurants and shops.

Tyrol

The province of Tyrol is rightfully included in the list of the best mountain resorts on the planet. The province of Austria has earned this title largely thanks to Innsbruck, where there are more than 200 km of prepared ski slopes, both mountainous and flat, and a snowboard park. Innsbruck - perfect place for recreation: during the day - sports, and at night - entertainment in casinos, restaurants and bars.

If you want to take a break from skiing or snowboarding, you can stroll around the city in search of sights, including: the Hofburg Imperial Palace, Arc de Triomphe, Hofkire Church, St. Anne's Column, City Tower, Ambras Castle, zoo, as well as the Ferdinandeum and Maximilianeum (formerly the Golden Dahl Palace) and the Museum of Tyrolean Art.

The beautiful places of Tyrol are not limited only to Innsbruck, other cities of this province are no less interesting. So, in a city called Wattens, you can visit the Crystal Museum, which exhibits the famous Swarovski crystals and unusual watches by Salvador Dali, and in Schwarz - a silver mine, a Franciscan monastery and Freundsberg Castle. Tyrol is also home to Europe's highest bridge, the Europabrücke, reaching a height of 200 meters.

Styria

Another province of Austria, rich in a huge number of beautiful places that cannot be ignored, is Styria. Styria is famous for its medieval castles scattered across its territory: Herberstein (XIII century), Schlossberg (XI century), Schloss-Egenburg (XVII century), etc. Against the backdrop of all the variety of castles built in different eras and differing from each other in architectural styles and internal decoration, the Riegersburg fortress stands out.

This impregnable fortress was built at the beginning of the 12th century on top of a cliff. There are several castles on the territory of the fortress, the largest of which is Wildon. The rooms of the castles repeat the interior of the premises of those times, and in one of the castles there is even a knight's hall. On the territory of the Riegersburg fortress there is an arsenal where a collection of medieval weapons is stored, and the Witches Museum is located in the basement rooms of the castle.

The most beautiful place not only in Styria, but throughout Austria, unconditionally, is the "Land of Lakes" Salzkammergut. The Land of Lakes is a truly magical place that attracts not only tourists, but also artists. This area is characterized by crystal clear water, mild climate and surprisingly clean and fresh air. The "Land of Lakes" was created for relaxation and recreation, here you can admire the serene lake surface, watch the representatives of the local fauna, walk along the mountain paths and cable cars, enjoying the magnificent scenery.

Certainly, Beautiful places Austria are not limited to those listed. Any, even a small, Austrian town keeps its unique story, which you can find out only by going to this amazing country.

Deep in the mountains of Austria lies the Weltmaschine (World Machine) of Franz Gselmann. With no formal mechanical or artistic training, Gzelman spent the last 23 years of his life creating monstrously erupting, spinning, twisting pieces, including but not limited to toy gondolas, a xylophone, miniature windmills, a spaceship, an oxygen tank, small toys, and flamboyant machinery. .

The centuries-old castle on top of the volcano houses museums dedicated to women and witches. While most medieval castles have a long male-dominated history, Riegersburg Castle in Austria is best known for its wealthy and powerful women and the tragic fate of those below them.

Highest suspension bridge located on the Dachstein Glacier in Austria. It was opened at the beginning of July in 2013. This stunning 100-meter structure is located near the town of Schladming. The Bridge to Nowhere will give you a breathtaking view of the mountain landscape, but only if you dare to cross it. Then you need to go through a narrow staircase with 14 steps and you will see the main part - a unique observation platform.

Schwarzenbergplatz is a vast area near the Ringstraße. The square has several attractions, including a fountain, a Soviet monument, and a statue of the prince after whom the square was named. Unfortunately, the vast area is criss-crossed by tram tracks and busy roads that divide it into several unattractive islands.

The Museum Quarter (MQ) is a large modern complex of museums and cultural institutions in Vienna. Behind the long baroque façade of the former imperial stables, you will find permanent and temporary exhibitions of contemporary art, as well as cultural centers for dance, art and architecture.

Michaelerplatz is one of the most famous squares in Vienna due to its proximity to the Hofburg Imperial Palace. Many tourists head straight for the palace, but there are other notable sights around the square. Michaelerplatz is dominated by the impressive Neo-Baroque Michaelertor, the entrance gate to the Hofburg. The Looshaus opposite is one of the first modern buildings in Vienna. The oldest building in the square is the Mayerkirch church. In the center of the square is an open area with Roman and medieval remains.

Imagine yourself sitting on your hotel balcony, sipping your morning coffee and gazing up at the peaks of the Alps against the backdrop of picturesque valleys. In Austria, you can enjoy fine white wine in a modern skyscraper, or stay in a hotel that combines tradition with modernity. I invite you to take a look at the collection. the best hotels Austria.

Karlsplatz is one of the largest squares in Vienna. The square is dominated by the magnificent baroque Karlskirche church, as well as a number of cultural institutions and museums, including the Artist's House and the Musikverein. The western part of Karlsplatz is limited by the highway and is of interest only because of the neighboring building of the Secession and Naschmarkt - the most popular market in Vienna.

The Mauthausen concentration camp is located about 20 kilometers east of the city of Linz in Upper Austria. It was one of the largest concentration camps in the German-controlled part of Europe, with a central camp near the village of Mauthausen and nearly a hundred other camps throughout Austria and southern Germany. Mauthausen was notable for the most cruel conditions of detention, being classified in "Class III". Most of the "incorrigible political enemies of the Reich" were sent here to exterminate them through exhausting forced labor. In SS, Mauthausen was called nothing more than a bone crusher.

The Austrian mountain villages are famous for their amazing bus stops. Even if they do not have special architectural sights, tourists still come here to watch such art. Bus stops have been reconstructed throughout the area, and the village of Krumbach has turned into a modern science fiction fairy tale.

Austria is a country located in Central Europe. The state borders on the Czech Republic, Hungary, Slovakia, Slovenia, Italy, Switzerland, Germany, Liechtenstein.

It is not surprising that many tourists try to include a visit to Austria in their travel itineraries, because a trip to many Austrian cities will give vivid and unforgettable impressions, diversify the trip.

Developed infrastructure attracts many tourists from all over the world. In addition, there has recently been a particular popularity for trips to small towns in Austria, where you can enjoy the beautiful facets of nature.

St. Stephen's Cathedral, Vienna

St. Stephen's Cathedral, which is one of the most worthy sights of Vienna, stands out from the general architectural ensemble. At the same time, the beauty of the cathedral surprises many travelers.

The construction of an architectural monument began in the distant 1137, but fires repeatedly destroyed the unique building. Construction of the current building was only begun in 1359. Unfortunately, during the Second World War, the religious object was badly damaged, but the Austrians managed to restore the attraction. Now the external and internal execution of the cathedral causes amazing impressions.

Location: Stephansplatz - 3.

Hofburg, Vienna

The Hofburg is the official residence of the President of Austria. During the imperial era, the palace complex was used as the winter residence of the Habsburg dynasty.

Medieval buildings have survived to this day, namely the Gothic chapel and the treasury building. It must be understood that almost every representative of the Habsburgs rebuilt and expanded the residence, as a result of which the palace complex deserves special attention of tourists. Fortunately, the residential and service premises have been preserved to this day almost in the exact form.

Tourists can visit Silver Chamber of the Hofburg, where tableware and family heirlooms of the Habsburgs are presented. If you wish, you can visit the Sissi Museum, which operates in the Hofburg Palace and allows you to learn about the Bavarian Princess Elisabeth.

Location: Michaelerkuppel.

The City Hall in Vienna was built in 1872-1883. For the construction activities, a project developed by Friedrich Schmidt, who became famous as an architect specializing in the Neo-Gothic style, was used. The town hall has five Gothic turrets that rise above the main building. On the main tower is rathausman statue. In winter, the facade of the town hall is always illuminated with Christmas lights.

Nowadays, cultural events are held in the town hall: concerts, festivals and exhibitions. In winter, the square in front of the town hall is used to create an ice rink.

Location: Friedrich-Schmidt-Platz - 1.

Schönbrunn, Vienna

Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna is an imperial residence. It is believed that this attraction is a worthy example of the Austrian Baroque.

The construction of the palace complex was carried out in 1696-1713. The creation of Schönbrunn Palace was facilitated by representatives of the Habsburg family. You can guess that the palace complex is actually impressive. In addition, in 1742-1743, the palace building and garden were reconstructed at the behest of Empress Maria Theresa. It was the reconstruction that allowed Schönbrunn to acquire its current form. Despite the greatness of the building, the property was used only as a summer residence.

Schönbrunn's new milestone was inaugurated thanks to Emperor Franz JosephI who decided to make the palace complex his residence.

The palace was damaged during the Second World War, but it was restored. Nowadays, tourists can appreciate the beauty of Schönbrunn.

Location: Schönbrunner Schloßstraße - 47.

Belvedere, Vienna

Belvedere is an amazing palace complex, which is divided into lower and upper parts. Here you can see not only the palace premises, but also the stable yard, the greenhouse. The Belvedere was built at the beginning of the 18th century, and the object was to become the summer residence of Prince Eugene of Savoy.

It is assumed that the construction of the lower part of the Belvedere was completed in 1712. At the same time, the inner chambers consist of the prince's bedroom, the Marble Hall, the Marble Gallery, the Grotesque Hall, the Golden Study, the dining room. It is here that you can appreciate the frescoes, sculptures, bas-reliefs. It should be noted that large territory allotted for stables and a greenhouse. The garden that surrounds the palace complex corresponds to the best principles of the French style.

The creation of the upper part of the Belvedere was carried out in 1717 - 1723. To prevent the collapse of the building, vaulted ceilings were created, which have survived to this day. The Upper Palace was used as a representative residence, where banquet halls, living rooms and bedrooms for guests.

Soon the palace passed to Maria Theresa, who moved here a large number of paintings and art from the Hofburg. As a result, the Belvedere also houses an art gallery where valuable paintings can be seen.

Belvedere is one of the most worthy palaces in Vienna.

Location: Prinz Eugen-Straße - 27.

Cathedral, Salzburg

Cathedral in Salzburg is not only an important religious site, but also a worthy architectural monument. The cathedral is distinguished by its exquisite silhouette and majestic dome, thanks to which it surprises many tourists with its beauty. In addition, many architects are convinced that the cathedral is a worthy example of the Renaissance.

The entrance to the main arch is decorated with the help of gates, which differ in the implementation of the images of Faith, Love and Hope. Subsequently, you can appreciate the marble facade with two symmetrical towers, statues.

The interior of the cathedral is made in accordance with the best principles of baroque. In addition, unique paintings and ancient frescoes are traditionally used as decorations. It should be noted that the main organ includes thousands of pipes decorated with small figures of angels.

The cathedral houses a museum dedicated to religious art. The cathedral also regularly hosts acoustic concerts.

Location: Domplatz - 1a.

Swarovski Museum, Innsbruck

The Swarovski Museum was opened for the centenary of the world-famous company of the same name, in 1995. The entrance to the museum center is a large hill covered with grass and made in the form of a giant's head. In addition, the territory of the museum is already underground.

The Swarovski Museum includes several halls. Each visitor can come closer to discovering the interesting facets of the Swarovski crystal world.

Location: Kristallweltenstraße - 1.

Mirabell Palace, Salzburg

The unique Mirabell Palace was built in 1606. However, in 1818, when a large-scale fire broke out in Salzburg, the palace complex was also damaged, as a result of which the building was given modern look. From the original palace complex, only the baroque staircase and stucco elements above some windows have survived.

Mirabell Palace is famous for its unique building and garden, created at the end of the 17th century. Each tourist can appreciate the magnificent decoration of the palace halls, a unique garden with a fountain, sculptures. The palace is available for celebrations and weddings, excursions.

Location: Mirabellplatz.

The Wachau Valley is a truly beautiful and ecologically clean place, which is an object cultural heritage UNESCO. The valley is located in Lower Austria and stretches along the Danube River. Tourists can visit the Wachau Valley, which is located between two Austrian cities, namely Melk and Krems. Wachau is famous for castles, small villages, vineyards.

Benedictine Monastery, Melk

The monastery complex is located right on the banks of the Danube. It took several decades to build the monastery, and the final form was acquired only in 1746.

The monastery was supposed to increase the influence of the church in the city of Melk and the surrounding region. However, despite the beauty of the architectural execution of the religious object, the situation remained the same. Moreover, in XIX century monastic taxes increased and the monastery lost its lands, and the Benedictine abbey had to part with religious values ​​\u200b\u200bin an attempt to avoid dire consequences. Despite all attempts, the monastery still belongs to the state authorities.

The Benedictine monastery is a famous landmark where you can see antique furniture, frescoes, icons. Tours, exhibitions, concerts and music festivals are held here.

Location: Abt-Berthold-Dietmayr-Straße - 1.

The Hohe Tauern is large nature reserve Austria, which is located on the territory of such lands as Tyrol, Salzburg and Carinthia. national park is located in the central part of the Hohe Tauern, a high ridge, thanks to which tourists can fully enjoy the picturesque nature.

The national park surprises mountain peaks, meadows and forests, waterfalls, gorges. Such a beautiful nature allows you to enjoy hiking, mountain tourism and mountaineering.

Landhaus, Graz

The Landhaus is one of the most famous landmarks in Graz. This object is the seat of the Styrian Parliament.

Landhaus surprises many tourists amazing architecture, which corresponds to the Venetian style. The attraction is distinguished by special loggias, arched windows of large sizes. However, the building took on such an appearance only after reconstruction measures in the 16th century, when it was possible to carry out reconstruction with the involvement of the Italian Domenico Allio.

In the courtyard there is a three-story arched gallery dating back to the Renaissance. Tourists can also visit the conference hall, the knight's hall. It is not surprising that the Landhaus in Graz attracts many travelers.

Location: Herrengasse - 16.

Puppet Museum, Salzburg

The puppet theater began its history in 1913. The theater troupe is not numerous, but at the same time, the diversity of the repertoire is truly surprising. Theater admirers can enjoy performances based on the works of W. A. ​​Mozart, Shakespeare, P. I. Tchaikovsky. Adults and children will enjoy the time spent in the amazing puppet theater.

Untersberg is amazing natural Park located near Salzburg. This park was founded in 1983 on private property. The owners of the territory freely provided their land holdings to the Austrians for recreation. Nowadays, Untersberg is especially popular with many travelers.

The park is located in a mountainous region on the border of Austria and Germany. This corner of Austria surprises with its picturesque nature. In addition, travelers can even visit ice caves and walk along special routes, visit a forest pub. Pastime is sure to give bright and unforgettable emotions.

Mozart's residence, Salzburg

The Mozart Residence is the native home of the composer from Austria, which opened to tourists in 1996. The residence was completely restored after the destruction caused by hostilities in World War II.

Visitors can see family documents and drafts of Mozart's musical works, a piano, a portrait of the whole family. Moreover, the exposition of one room is completely dedicated to all the women in Mozart's life.

Location: Getreidegasse - 9.

Olympic Games Museum, Innsbruck

Innsbruck is an attractive city in Austria that hosted the 1964 and 1976 Olympic Games. Visitors can watch documentary videos of the Olympics, learn about the history of the Olympic Games, and even appreciate the symbolism. Each visitor can appreciate the commemorative collection presented, revealing interesting historical events related to sports.

The Piber Horse Farm is a place where the Lipizzan horse breed is bred to preserve the classic art of riding. The history of the farm dates back to the 16th century, but even today Piber plays an important role in the Austrian riding world. Despite the constant threat of the disappearance of unique horses and the cessation of the development of the farm, all obstacles were overcome.

Orth Castle, Gmunden

Gmunden is a small resort town in Austria that surprises with its romantic atmosphere. In addition, the town became famous for its unique lake castle Ort. Many lovers try to hold their long-awaited wedding in this magical place, where you can enjoy the lake and majestic mountains.

Orth Castle includes Renaissance and Baroque features. Such an amazing architectural performance of the castle complex surprises many travelers.

Medling is a small town located in the middle of the Vienna Woods. Before locality included in Vienna, but in 1954 Medling was recognized as an autonomous city. The town attracted painters, composers and poets who became famous all over the world. Even Ludwig van Beethoven liked to spend time in small town Medling. Tourists can fully enjoy this picturesque and attractive Austrian city.

Austria is truly amazing country, ready to discover interesting facets of ancient architecture and impress with picturesque nature.