Where to go in Austria

Vienna is Austria’s stunningly beautiful capital set on the banks of the mighty Danube River. It boasts a long, rich history and magnificent centuries-old buildings lined along narrow, meandering streets that feel like a step back in time. The atmosphere is so authentic you might expect to encounter composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart around the next bend. Grand baroque palaces from the Habsburg area soar over the city while artistic and musical masterpieces are nestled between independent bookstores and endless coffee houses. There’s a surprising number of attractions for families with young children too, including a zoo and an amusement park. Despite some two million residents, Vienna somehow manages to have a more relaxed, small-town feel, perhaps in part due to its numerous green spaces, parks, woodlands, and surrounding hills.

Innsbruck is the capital of the Tyrol region, tucked into a valley with mountains soaring above. Its position in the Alps provides incredible opportunities for winter sports, not surprising considering it’s hosted two Winter Olympics in ‘64 & ‘76. The jagged spires of the Nordkette range are so close it almost seems as if you can reach out and touch the rock. Some say Innsbruck is a microcosm of Austria, with its medieval Old Town the stuff fairytales are made of, overlooked by a majestic palace and a baroque cathedral. It offers the charms of a small mountain town with historical sites and an abundance of outdoor adventures that not only include skiing but hiking, mountain biking, and relaxed rides with breathtaking views from the funiculars and cable cars. If you’re here around the holidays, there are four Christmas markets to enjoy, each with its own unique vibe.