Welcome to Austria, a land of stunning alpine landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and delectable cuisine. Whether you’re planning a city break in Vienna, a scenic tour of Salzburg, or an adventure in the Tyrolean Alps, Austria offers something for every traveler. This guide will help you navigate the best places to eat, how to get around, and what to watch out for during your visit.

Getting There: Airports and Accessibility

Austria is well-connected with several international airports. The major ones are:

• Vienna International Airport (VIE): Located about 18 km southeast of Vienna’s city center. A 16-minute train ride on the City Airport Train (CAT) or a 20-minute taxi ride will get you there.
• Salzburg Airport (SZG): Approximately 4 km from Salzburg city center, accessible by a 15-minute bus or taxi ride.
• Innsbruck Airport (INN): Situated about 4 km from Innsbruck’s center, just a 10-minute drive or bus ride away.

Exploring Vienna: The Heart of Austria

Vienna, the capital, is a city of grandeur and elegance. Here are some must-visit places and dining recommendations:

1. Schönbrunn Palace:

• Restaurant: Café Residenz
• Cuisine: Austrian, Desserts
• Distance: A short walk from the palace grounds.

1. St. Stephen’s Cathedral:

• Restaurant: Figlmüller
• Cuisine: Famous for Wiener Schnitzel
• Distance: A 5-minute walk from the cathedral.

1. Belvedere Palace:

• Restaurant: Salm Bräu
• Cuisine: Traditional Austrian brewery fare
• Distance: A 7-minute walk from the palace.

1. Naschmarkt:

• Restaurant: Do-An
• Cuisine: International, Market Foods
• Distance: Located within the market itself.

Vienna’s efficient public transport system includes buses, trams, and the U-Bahn (subway), making it easy to get around. A 24-hour Vienna Card offers unlimited travel and discounts at various attractions.

Salzburg: The Sound of Music City

Salzburg, Mozart’s birthplace, is a picturesque city with a rich musical heritage.

1. Hohensalzburg Fortress:

• Restaurant: Stieglkeller
• Cuisine: Traditional Austrian
• Distance: A short walk from the fortress.

1. Mirabell Palace and Gardens:

• Restaurant: Café Fingerlos
• Cuisine: Breakfast and Brunch
• Distance: A 5-minute walk from the gardens.

1. Mozart’s Birthplace:

• Restaurant: Gasthaus Zwettler’s
• Cuisine: Austrian, Comfort Food
• Distance: A 3-minute walk from Mozart’s Birthplace.

Salzburg’s city center is compact and walkable, but buses are available for longer journeys.

Innsbruck: The Alpine Jewel

Innsbruck, nestled in the Alps, is known for its winter sports and stunning scenery.

1. Golden Roof:

• Restaurant: Goldener Adler
• Cuisine: Tyrolean
• Distance: Located next to the Golden Roof.

1. Innsbruck Cathedral:

• Restaurant: Stiftskeller
• Cuisine: Traditional Austrian
• Distance: A 2-minute walk from the cathedral.

1. Nordkette Cable Car:

• Restaurant: Seegrube Restaurant
• Cuisine: Alpine Cuisine
• Distance: At the top of the Nordkette, accessible via cable car.

Innsbruck’s public transportation includes buses and trams, with easy access to ski resorts and hiking trails.

Currency and Practical Tips

Austria uses the Euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s always good to have some cash for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are readily available throughout cities.

Safety Tips

Austria is generally very safe, but it’s always wise to stay vigilant, especially in crowded tourist areas:

• Pickpocketing: Keep an eye on your belongings, particularly in busy places.
• Weather: Be prepared for changing weather conditions, especially in alpine areas.
• Health: Tap water is safe to drink. Ensure you have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Final Thoughts

Austria is a beautiful country with a rich tapestry of culture, history, and natural beauty. From the majestic palaces of Vienna to the musical heart of Salzburg and the alpine wonders of Innsbruck, there’s so much to explore and enjoy. Savor the culinary delights, immerse yourself in the history, and take in the breathtaking landscapes. Safe travels!