Vienna
A must-see on any trip around Europe, Vienna is chock-full of beautiful buildings, galleries, museums and cultural activities, making it the kind of majestic European city that sticks in the mind of tourists from the new world (North America and Down Under).
Fortunately it’s not all about soaking up culture, there’s a vibrant bar and club life here, too.
Salzburg
Crammed full of tourists and with loads of Mozart and Sound of Music tourist tack, Salzburg has the potential to be a tourist destination to avoid — but actually, it’s a must see.
Salzburg is a beautiful town: the old town (alstadt) is a Unesco world heritage site, overlooked by the impressive Hohensalzburg Fortress, which has an unbeatable view of the city. And it has an awesome, awesome beer hall.
Alps
The Austrian Alps might not be as famous as the neighbouring Swiss Alps, but don’t let that fool you, the mountains here are just as big and just as impressive.
Austria has some of the planet’s best skiing and snowboarding and some of the most sophisticated facilities going around. Outside of the ski season there’s the chance for walking, climbing and cycling.
The hills may or may not be alive with the sound of music, but they’re certainly alive with the sound of Austrians and visitors alike getting active in the fresh air.
Graz
Arnie Schwarzenegger hails from Graz, but don't hold that against this characterful little city. Austria's second largest city is studded with contemporary architectural gems including the futuristic Kunsthaus (Museum of Contemporary Art), the sharp edged Stadthalle (civic hall) and the amphitheatre styled island on the river Mur.
And with a 40,000 strong student population Graz boasts a youthful vibe and nightlife to match.