Snow-capped mountains, lush green valleys, serene lakes, impressive baroque places, culinary delights, exotic castles, friendly people, grand festivals and scenic views. That's Austria for you, the ultimate tourist destination. A visit to the country offers the tourists an insight into the imperial past of the land. Opulent heritage, historic cities, Roman ruins, breathtaking Alps and musical tradition adds to the vibrancy of the country. Considered the sports capital of Europe along with Switzerland, Austria offers plenty for an adventure sports lover. Every year, Austria attracts explorers, sport lovers, art connoisseurs and musicians to enjoy themselves in this incredible country.

Must see

Vienna, the capital city is historically significant for having fostered the Habsburg Empire. The city is replete with exquisite monuments, places, architectural splendour and music. Another prominent attraction is Salzburg, which is home to Baroque buildings, Old town, Fortresses, medieval castles and is renowned for being the Birthplace of the musical genius, Mozart. The city is world-famous for the largest ice caves.

Historically famous, Innsbruck is hailed as Europe's skiing capital. Klagenfurt that houses over twenty splendid castles, baroque city of Eisenstadt, Linz, Bregenze and Danube Valley are other major stops an Austrian itinerary. Apart from these the Hohe Tauren National park with rich flora and fauna, Krimml Falls, Kuenringerburg, Schloss Helbrunn, etc. are significant attractions of Austria. Hordes of museums, galleries, libraries and renowned collection of masterpieces invite tourists from all over the world to Austria.

Must do

For skiers, snowboarders and hikers, Austria offers an ideal setting. The Ski resorts in Austria are mostly situated in the valleys and surrounded by mountain slopes. Austrian Alps are gifted with a snow season that lasts longer. Innsbruck in Austria is a much sought after skiing destination with world class resorts and historically significant monuments. Skillful ski instructors come to the aid of the amateurs in the Austrian resorts.

Cyclists throng cycling routes along the beautiful serpentine rivers that are downhill in Austria, every year. The Danube cycle path draws hordes of tourists, every summer. A hiker's paradise, Austria offers plenty to explore for a hiker. Accompanied by a skillful guide, a traveller can negotiate the complicated network of trails, mountains, lush green forests and picturesque wilderness of the land.

World- renowned for music, Austria can be the best destination for music lovers. Vienna and Salzburg can take the tourists through a world filled with classical music, Opera performances and lilting jazz strains. Austrian folk music is equally delightful like their classical counterpart. The folk music has inspired many a great musician of Austria - after all, who can forget Mozart?

Must taste

The Austrian cuisine offers a delectable fare with varieties like Wiener schnitzel (fried veal escalope), Knodel (sweet or savory dumplings), Tiroler Grostl (a combo of slow cooked bacon, onions, cheese and potatoes), Kaiserschmarren (sweet flour dish) and Tafelspitz (horse radish, potatoes with boiled beef). Austrian desserts are popular and Apfelstrudel is the most famous one among the locals and tourists. The land is also well known for its beer.

Must partake

Austria is rich in musical tradition and this is apparent from the music festivals that are held all year round. The masked dance and processions of the Shrovetide carnival and Wiener Festwochen that showcases a variety of performing arts provide unforgettable moments for the travellers. Salzburg festival is famed for attracting eminent musicians from different parts of the world - a fitting tribute to the musical genius that was Mozart.

Facts

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