Austria is a country known for its breathtaking alpine scenery, rich history and vibrant culture. Beyond the famous cities such as Vienna and Salzburg, Austria is home to a multitude of charming villages that look like something out of a fairy tale. These villages offer a perfect blend of natural beauty, traditional architecture and a welcoming atmosphere. In this guide, we take you to discover the 20 most beautiful villages in Austria - get ready for an unforgettable trip!
1. Hallstatt, Upper Austria
What to See and Do
Lake Hallstatt
Lake Hallstatt is one of the most beautiful lakes in Austria. You can enjoy a boat ride or just admire the view from the shore.
Salt Mines
Visit the salt mines, which have been exploited since the Bronze Age and are an essential part of the town's history.
Why Visit
Hallstatt is known for its picturesque beauty and historical atmosphere. It is a perfect destination for those seeking an authentic Alpine experience.
2. Alpbach, Tyrol
What to See and Do
Walking and Hiking
Enjoy the many hiking trails around Alpbach, with breathtaking views of the Tyrolean Alps.
Tyrolean Architecture
Explore the village streets and admire the traditional Tyrolean architecture with its wooden houses adorned with flowers.
Why Visit
Alpbach has been voted one of the most beautiful villages in Austria, famous for its alpine charm and natural surroundings.
3. Zell am See, Salzburg
What to See and Do
Lake Zell
Enjoy water activities at Lake Zell, such as swimming, sailing and fishing.
Ski and Snowboard
In winter, Zell am See is a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding in the surrounding mountains.
Why Visit
Zell am See offers a perfect combination of outdoor activities in summer and winter with spectacular scenery.
4. Dürnstein, Lower Austria
What to See and Do
Dürnstein Abbey
Visit Dürnstein Abbey, an impressive Baroque monastery overlooking the Danube River.
Castle Ruins
Explore the ruins of the castle where Richard the Lionheart is said to have been imprisoned during the Crusades.
Why Visit
Dürnstein is a picturesque village in the Wachau Valley, known for its vineyards and rich history.
5. Bad Gastein, Salzburg
What to See and Do
Bad Gastein waterfall
Admire the impressive waterfall that runs through the centre of the village.
Thermal Waters
Relax in one of the many spas offering natural hot springs.
Why Visit
Bad Gastein combines natural beauty with the relaxation of its thermal springs, making it a perfect wellness destination.
6. Maria Alm, Salzburg
What to See and Do
Ski and Snowboard
Enjoy the excellent skiing and snowboarding conditions in the Hochkönig region.
Hiking and Cycling
In summer, Maria Alm offers numerous hiking and cycling trails with breathtaking scenery.
Why Visit
Maria Alm is a charming alpine village offering a wide range of outdoor activities all year round.
7. St. Wolfgang, Upper Austria
What to See and Do
Lake Wolfgang
Enjoy a boat trip on Lake Wolfgang and admire the views of the Alps.
Pilgrimage Church
Visit the famous Pilgrimage Church of St. Wolfgang, known for its Gothic altar.
Why Visit
St. Wolfgang is a picturesque lakeside village known for its natural beauty and rich religious history.
8. Heiligenblut, Carinthia
What to See and Do
Hohe Tauern National Park
Explore the Hohe Tauern National Park, one of the largest national parks in Europe, with breathtaking hiking trails.
Church of San Vicente
Visit St. Vincent's Church, a Gothic gem with spectacular views of the Grossglockner, Austria's highest mountain.
Why Visit
Heiligenblut is an ideal destination for nature lovers and hikers, offering breathtaking alpine landscapes.
9. Kufstein, Tyrol
What to See and Do
Kufstein Fortress
Explore Kufstein Fortress, an impressive medieval fortress overlooking the Inn River.
River Walk
Enjoy a stroll along the River Inn and admire the traditional architecture of the village.
Why Visit
Kufstein combines a rich history with a picturesque riverside location, making it a charming destination in the Tyrol.
10. Lienz, East Tyrol
What to See and Do
Main Square
Explore Lienz's main square with its colourful buildings and vibrant local life.
Bruck Castle
Visit Bruck Castle, which houses the Lienz Museum and offers panoramic views of the valley.
Why Visit
Lienz is known as the "Pearl of the Dolomites" for its natural beauty and friendly atmosphere.
11. Hall in Tirol, Tirol
What to See and Do
Old City
Stroll through the old town of Hall in Tirol, with its narrow streets and well-preserved medieval architecture.
Mint
Visit the Hall Mint, one of the first places in Europe where silver coins were minted.
Why Visit
Hall in Tirol is a perfect destination for history lovers, offering a rich cultural and architectural heritage.
12. Mondsee, Upper Austria
What to See and Do
Lake Mondsee
Enjoy water activities on Lake Mondsee, such as swimming, sailing and fishing.
St Michael's Basilica
Visit the Basilica of St. Michael, an impressive baroque church.
Why Visit
Mondsee combines natural beauty with a rich cultural heritage, making it an ideal destination for relaxation and exploration.
13. Schruns, Vorarlberg
What to See and Do
Ski and Snowboard
Enjoy the excellent skiing and snowboarding conditions in the Silvretta Montafon region.
Hiking and Cycling
In summer, Schruns offers numerous hiking and cycling trails with breathtaking views of the Alps.
Why Visit
Schruns is a charming alpine village offering a wide range of outdoor activities all year round.
14. Finkenberg, Tyrol
What to See and Do
Ski and Snowboard
Enjoy the excellent skiing and snowboarding conditions in the Zillertal region.
Walking and Hiking
In summer, Finkenberg offers numerous hiking trails with breathtaking views of the Tyrolean Alps.
Why Visit
Finkenberg is known for its alpine beauty and excellent opportunities for outdoor activities.
15. Gmunden, Upper Austria
What to See and Do
Lake Traunsee
Enjoy a boat trip on Lake Traunsee and admire the views of the Alps.
Ort Castle
Visit Ort Castle, a medieval castle on a small island in the lake.
Why Visit
Gmunden combines natural beauty with a rich cultural heritage, making it an ideal destination for relaxation and exploration.
16. Seefeld in Tirol, Tirol
What to See and Do
Ski and Snowboard
Enjoy the excellent skiing and snowboarding conditions in the Seefeld region.
Hiking and Cycling
In summer, Seefeld offers numerous hiking and cycling trails with breathtaking views of the Alps.
Why Visit
Seefeld in Tirol is a charming alpine village offering a wide range of outdoor activities all year round.
17. Alpbach, Tyrol
What to See and Do
Walking and Hiking
Enjoy the many hiking trails around Alpbach, with breathtaking views of the Tyrolean Alps.
Tyrolean Architecture
Explore the village streets and admire the traditional Tyrolean architecture with its wooden houses adorned with flowers.
Why Visit
Alpbach has been voted one of the most beautiful villages in Austria, famous for its alpine charm and natural surroundings.
18. Pörtschach am Wörthersee, Carinthia
What to See and Do
Lake Wörthersee
Enjoy a boat trip on the Wörthersee Lake and admire
views of the Alps.
Pörtschach beach
Relax on the beach of Pörtschach and enjoy the crystal clear waters of the lake.
Why Visit
Pörtschach am Wörthersee combines natural beauty with a rich cultural heritage, making it an ideal destination for relaxation and exploration.
19. Krems an der Donau, Lower Austria
What to See and Do
Old City
Stroll through the old town of Krems an der Donau, with its narrow streets and well-preserved medieval architecture.
Krems Museum
Visit the Krems Museum, which houses a collection of local art and history.
Why Visit
Krems an der Donau is a perfect destination for history lovers, offering a rich cultural and architectural heritage.
20. Mariazell, Styria
What to See and Do
Mariazell Basilica
Visit the Mariazell Basilica, one of the most important pilgrimage destinations in Europe.
Mariazell Mountains
Enjoy outdoor activities in the surrounding mountains, such as hiking and skiing.
Why Visit
Mariazell is a charming alpine village known for its natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.
Conclusion
Austria is a country full of charming villages that offer a perfect blend of history, culture and natural beauty. From picturesque alpine villages to charming lake towns, each of these destinations has something unique to offer. As you explore these villages, you can immerse yourself in authentic Austrian life and discover hidden corners that will leave you wanting to return time and time again. Pack your bags and get ready to discover Austria's most beautiful villages!
