Austria
Located in the southern part of Central Europe, Austria blends urban cities, alpine meadows, imperial architectural works, and lively culture in one peaceful country. Pay a visit to the world's most liveable city, Vienna, and dive into the iconic jazz scene, admire the works of art at the Belvedere Palace complex, and immerse yourself in the classical music capital that gave us Mozart and Beethoven. Embark on a scenic river cruise through the Strudengau Valley. Strap on your helmets and bike ride along the Danube River and around Melk. Dance your way through the sunny meadows dotted with wildflowers as you step into a scene straight from The Sound of Music, take a leisurely bike ride along the sparkling blue waters of Austria's numerous lakes, or see as they are known there.
Highlights
- Vienna
Austria's imperial capital city, Vienna, sits east of the country on the Danube River, Europe's second-longest river. Vienna, Austria's largest city, seamlessly blends historical traditions with modern architecture. From towering palaces, cozy cafes, and restaurants teeming with delicious Viennese cuisine to the classical notes of Mozart and Strauss filling the air, Vienna offers a unique charm to its locals and travelers worldwide.
- Schönbrunn Palace
Once the primary summer residence of the royal family, the Habsburgs, the Schönbrunn Palace stands as one of the most significant architectural, cultural, and historical monuments in Austria. Located in the capital city of Vienna, this magnificent palace is home to 1,441 rooms full of ornate pieces of art, decorated cathedral ceilings, and a classic, royal atmosphere. Since the 1950s, the Schönbrunn Palace has been a top-rated tourist attraction, allowing visitors to explore 45 of its grand rooms.
- Classical Music
They don't call Vienna the "City of Music" for nothing! Dance your way through Austria, known as the birthplace of classical music, as you follow in the footsteps of Mozart, Strauss, Beethoven, and more. Looking for a must-do when in Vienna? Attend a classical music concert in the historic Kursalon Hall, built in the beautiful Italian Renaissance style, or waltz your way into a grand ball as you sway to the mesmerizing compositions.
- Viennese Strudel
Thin, flaky pastry dough layered with a sweet or savory filling, Viennese Strudels date back hundreds of years ago and are staple treats in Austria. The word "strudel" originates from the German word "whirlpool," which is what the strudels physically resemble once rolled up. Although the fillings can vary, the most popular strudels in Austria are sweet, tart apple strudels. Travelers can visit bakeries and learn the secret to making a classic Viennese apple strudel while sampling these delicious pastries.
- Belvedere Palace
The Belvedere Palace is a historic building complex located in Vienna on a UNESCO World Heritage park. This grand complex features two Baroque palaces, the Orangery and the Palace Stables, as well as the Belvedere Museum. Visitors can stand in awe before timeless pieces of priceless art, some dating back over 800 years, from the Middle Ages to today. Outside the complex, walk around the visibly stunning manicured gardens, perfect for a peaceful stroll after touring the magnificent interior of the palaces and museum.
Austria's imperial capital city, Vienna, sits east of the country on the Danube River, Europe's second-longest river. Vienna, Austria's largest city, seamlessly blends historical traditions with modern architecture. From towering palaces, cozy cafes, and restaurants teeming with delicious Viennese cuisine to the classical notes of Mozart and Strauss filling the air, Vienna offers a unique charm to its locals and travelers worldwide.
Once the primary summer residence of the royal family, the Habsburgs, the Schönbrunn Palace stands as one of the most significant architectural, cultural, and historical monuments in Austria. Located in the capital city of Vienna, this magnificent palace is home to 1,441 rooms full of ornate pieces of art, decorated cathedral ceilings, and a classic, royal atmosphere. Since the 1950s, the Schönbrunn Palace has been a top-rated tourist attraction, allowing visitors to explore 45 of its grand rooms.
They don't call Vienna the "City of Music" for nothing! Dance your way through Austria, known as the birthplace of classical music, as you follow in the footsteps of Mozart, Strauss, Beethoven, and more. Looking for a must-do when in Vienna? Attend a classical music concert in the historic Kursalon Hall, built in the beautiful Italian Renaissance style, or waltz your way into a grand ball as you sway to the mesmerizing compositions.
Thin, flaky pastry dough layered with a sweet or savory filling, Viennese Strudels date back hundreds of years ago and are staple treats in Austria. The word "strudel" originates from the German word "whirlpool," which is what the strudels physically resemble once rolled up. Although the fillings can vary, the most popular strudels in Austria are sweet, tart apple strudels. Travelers can visit bakeries and learn the secret to making a classic Viennese apple strudel while sampling these delicious pastries.
The Belvedere Palace is a historic building complex located in Vienna on a UNESCO World Heritage park. This grand complex features two Baroque palaces, the Orangery and the Palace Stables, as well as the Belvedere Museum. Visitors can stand in awe before timeless pieces of priceless art, some dating back over 800 years, from the Middle Ages to today. Outside the complex, walk around the visibly stunning manicured gardens, perfect for a peaceful stroll after touring the magnificent interior of the palaces and museum.Fast Facts
Already booked on one of our packages to Austria? See everything you need to know before you go.
| Overview | Capital: Vienna |
| Entry requirements | Please see our Entry Requirements page. |
| Staying Healthy | Immunizations are not currently required for travel to Austria. Please consult your doctor regarding any concerns or recommendations prior to departure. |
| Weather | The best times to travel in Austria are between the months of May and November. The average daytime temperatures in May through September is in the 70’s and 80’s. The average temperature in October will be in the 60’s. Evening temperatures will be about 10-15 degrees cooler. Take along a sweater for evenings, even in summer. The higher you are in elevation, the colder it gets. Winters are cold and drizzly, but provide the best skiing. |
| What to wear | Since weather can be unpredictable and to be sure you are comfortable during your trip and prepared for all types of weather possibilities, we suggest that you carry a small folding umbrella and take with you a light jacket or sweater. If you have two pairs of comfortable (broken in, not brand new) walking shoes, by all means, take both pairs. Packing to dress in layers is a great way to prepare for a variety of weather conditions. Finally, remember that comfort and convenience should dictate your wardrobe for the tour, and casual clothes are in order for most every occasion as you travel. |
| Money & Credit Cards | The official currency in Austria is the Euro. The hotels, some stores and some restaurants will be able to accept major credit cards. However, smaller stores, souvenir places and some art galleries will accept cash only in local currency, Euro or U.S. dollars. ATMs are available in most major cities. We highly recommend that you bring enough cash to cover incidental expenses as well as tips to the guides and drivers. Credit cards are the most convenient way to pay for items you purchase as you travel. Be sure to call your credit card providers to let them know you will be traveling abroad, the places you’ll be visiting, and the dates of your trip. This is important for your own protection. Always notify your bank prior to departure to avoid any problems using your credit or debit card while traveling. |
| Shopping | Austria is famous for its crystal! Shop also for antiques, loden coats, wood carvings, enamel, pottery, local handicrafts, costume and fashion jewelry, china, clocks, ski equipment, hand-painted Augarten porcelain, and recordings of Viennese waltzes. You will certainly have time for shopping, and the countries on this tour offer a great variety of goods to satisfy different tastes and price ranges. It is always a good idea to comparison-shop, and exercise the “buyer-beware” rule, just as you do at home. Be sure to inspect the merchandise before you leave the store. Most stores will not allow you to return or exchange purchased items. |
| Electricity & Power Adapters | 230 volts. Plugs C & F. You will need a voltage converter and plug adapter in order to use U.S. appliances. We recommend getting a universal adapter and converter kit. Learn more about electrical standards around the world. |
| Cell Phones & Internet | Want to take your cell phone, tablet or laptop, but not sure how to get cell service or wifi? Read up on using your cell phone abroad and the top 5 ways to get Internet abroad. |
| Photography | Cameras and video recorders are allowed almost everywhere in the countries visited on this tour, and in fact, you will want to take plenty of pictures of the magnificent panoramas you’ll encounter as you travel. Photography is generally permitted everywhere except at airports and military installations. Memory cards for digital cameras will also be readily available, especially in major cities. |
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Tours & Packages
- Destinations: Austria
- including closed packages
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