The 10 most beautiful places in Austria in the summer
You can find many beautiful places in Austria that ensure an unforgettable summer holiday. Discover, for example, the diverse landscape, stunning nature, or follow in the footsteps of Empress Sissi while visiting various cities in Austria.
We have summarized the 10 most beautiful places in Austria in the summer specifically for you in this blog article. This way, you'll know exactly what to do in Austria in the summer. Are you going to spend the summer vacation with the whole family by a crystal-clear mountain lake, or treat yourself to a relaxing holiday for two amidst the impressive mountains?
1. Großglockner High Alpine Road - Austria's Highest View
One of the most enjoyable places to visit in Austria during the summer is the Großglockner High Alpine Road. This high alpine mountain road is 48 kilometers long, taking you through 36 hairpin bends amidst rugged rocks and snow-white fields to the Kaiser-Franz-Josefs-Höhe Visitor Center. From here, you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the Pasterze Glacier and Austria's highest mountain, the majestic 3,798-meter-high Großglockner. You can traverse this panoramic road by car, motorcycle, bus, or bicycle from May to early November. Along the way, be sure to make stops at museums, information points, and themed panoramic routes.
2. Salzburg - Beautiful UNESCO World Heritage Site in Austria
Salzburg is one of the most beautiful baroque cities globally and undoubtedly one of Austria's most picturesque places. Notable figures, such as Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, shape the city's history. In the summer, it's delightful to stroll through Salzburg's beautiful old town. Walk along the majestic Hohensalzburg Fortress, the Salzburg Cathedral, the Mirabell Gardens, and Residenzplatz. Additionally, numerous events take place in Salzburg during the summer, adding a cultural touch to your Austrian summer vacation.
3. Hohe Tauern National Park - Austria's Largest Nature Park
Expansive glacier fields, beautiful forests, and imposing valleys characterize Austria's largest nature park: Hohe Tauern National Park. Spanning over 1,800 km², the park extends across the three states of Carinthia, Salzburg, and Tyrol. It is the largest protected area in Central Europe, home to a diverse range of animals and plants. One of the most beautiful spots in the national park is the Krimml Waterfalls. With a total height of 385 meters, they are Austria's highest waterfalls and a spectacular destination for your summer vacation. Here, you can indulge in delightful hikes through nature.
4. Millstätter See - Experience Swimming and Beautiful Villages in Austria in Summer
In summer, Millstätter See in the beautiful Carinthia region attracts many people due to its warm water temperatures. The middle of the lake measures a remarkable 22 degrees Celsius, making it perfect for swimming, fishing, or engaging in various water sports. However, the excitement doesn't end on the water. Stroll around the lake through the streets of Austria's most beautiful villages in summer, such as Seeboden, Millstatt, and Döbriach. Hikers and cyclists can also enjoy stunning views of the lake as they tour along the shore. If you prefer an aerial view of the lake, take one of the 16 cable cars around Millstätter See to ascend into the mountains.
5. Zillertal - One of the Most Enjoyable Places in Austria
During Summer Whether you're seeking action or tranquility, Zillertal has it all for your summer vacation in Austria. Hike or bike through the magnificent mountains, climb rocks or navigate high rope courses, play around in adventure playgrounds, swim in refreshing mountain lakes, and paraglide from the most beautiful peaks in Austria. These are just a few of the many summer activities in Zillertal that attract not only couples but also families with children to this stunning region.
6. Achensee - Tip for Caribbean Vibes in Austria in Summer
The water of Achensee sparkles turquoise blue in the summer, providing a delightful Caribbean feeling. The color and excellent water quality of Tyrol's largest lake attract numerous vacationers each year, making it one of Austria's most beautiful spots in the summer. Relax on the shore at one of the pebble beaches or take a boat trip on the almost 10-kilometer-long Achensee. From the lake, you can admire the breathtaking mountain landscape of the Karwendel and Rofan mountain ranges.
7. Innsbruck - The Capital of the Alps
Innsbruck is a wonderful place in Austria during the summer, suitable for both a city break and a hiking vacation. Surrounded by the impressive peaks of the Karwendel Mountains, the "Capital of the Alps" offers the perfect mix of city and mountains. Explore the old town of Innsbruck on foot, discovering landmarks such as the 450-year-old city tower, the colorful houses in the Mariahilf and St. Nikolaus districts, and the city's symbol: the "Golden Roof." With the Hungerburgbahn, you can quickly reach the 900-meter-high Hungerburg district and enjoy a fantastic view over the entire city.
8. Ötztal - Rafting and Hiking in Austria
During Summer For outdoor enthusiasts, Ötztal is a delightful place for a summer vacation in Austria. It's the perfect destination for long-distance hikes, such as the varied Ötztaler Urweg, which crosses the entire valley in just 12 stages. This 180-kilometer-long long-distance hiking route takes you from village to village, passing many highlights of Ötztal. Looking for more action? Join a rafting tour or go canyoning. In summer, the Inn and Ötztaler Ache turn into wild rivers with narrow gorges and slippery rocks, offering pure whitewater fun! Another tip: visit Area47 in Ötztal, Austria's largest outdoor amusement park.