When it comes to fairytale landscapes, few countries can compete with Austria. From snow-capped peaks and turquoise lakes to baroque towns and alpine meadows, every corner of this country feels cinematic.
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a full Austria vacation, these destinations combine natural beauty, local charm, and cultural history.
We’ve explored mountain trails, wandered through lakeside villages, and driven along scenic alpine roads to bring you our favorite postcard-worthy spots. Here are 15 of the most beautiful places to visit in Austria — each one a destination that will make you fall in love with the Alps.
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Top 15 most beautiful places to visit in Austria
1. Krimml Waterfalls – Austria’s Tallest Natural Wonder
We recommend starting your trip with Krimml Waterfalls, the tallest in Austria at 380 meters. Watching the water plunge across three levels surrounded by forest mist feels almost magical.
Our personal tip: Follow the well-marked hiking trail to several viewpoints — perfect for photography or a relaxing picnic. For outdoor enthusiasts, it’s one of the best places to visit in Austria.
2. Laxenburg Castle Park (Vienna)
Just outside Vienna, Laxenburg Castle Park is a peaceful escape filled with lakes, old trees, and romantic bridges. Its centerpiece, Franzensburg Castle, looks like something from a storybook.
Our personal tip: We suggest renting a rowboat or strolling the gardens in spring. It’s one of the best day trips from Vienna if you’re craving nature and tranquility.
3. Lake Blindsee
Tucked near the German border, Lake Blindsee is a hidden gem known for its turquoise waters and mountain reflections. It’s ideal for swimming, paddleboarding, or diving during summer.
Our personal tip: We recommend visiting early in the morning to see the glass-calm surface — perfect for photos and peaceful moments.
4. Melk and Its Magnificent Abbey
Overlooking the Danube, Melk Abbey is one of Austria’s most stunning baroque landmarks. Inside, you’ll find golden halls, ceiling frescoes, and panoramic terraces.
Our personal tip: After touring the abbey, we love exploring Melk’s cobblestone streets and stopping for traditional pastries at a local café.
5. Gosau Valley
In the Dachstein region, Gosau Valley offers sweeping alpine views with meadows and jagged peaks. The area is a paradise for hikers and photographers.
Our personal tip: We recommend the trail to Lake Gosausee, where the Dachstein Glacier reflects on the water — one of Austria’s most iconic views.
6. Hallstatt – The Fairytale Village
No list of beautiful Austrian places is complete without Hallstatt. Its pastel houses, mirrored lake, and mountain backdrop make it one of the most photographed villages in the world.
Our personal tip: We suggest staying overnight; when the day-trippers leave, Hallstatt becomes quiet, romantic, and even more magical.
7. Silberkarsee (Hölltalsee)
Hidden deep in the Dachstein Mountains, Silberkarsee rewards hikers with emerald waters surrounded by limestone cliffs.
Our personal tip: We recommend packing a picnic and spending an afternoon here — it’s one of the most peaceful spots in Austria, far from tourist crowds.
8. Lake Plansee – Austria’s Blue Gem
With its crystal-clear, Caribbean-blue water, Lake Plansee is perfect for kayaking, swimming, or sunbathing along its grassy shores.
Our personal tip: We recommend stopping here on a summer Austria road trip — it’s a wonderful detour between Tyrol and Bavaria.
9. Schafberg Mountain
Take the historic cogwheel train up Schafberg Mountain for panoramic views that stretch into Germany. From the summit, you can see more than a dozen sparkling lakes.
Our personal tip: Pair your visit with a stop in St. Wolfgang for lakeside charm and delicious Austrian cuisine. Also, you should consider hiking on the way down, the views are out of this world!
10. Mirabell Gardens (Salzburg)
In Salzburg, the Mirabell Gardens are iconic. Famous for their role in The Sound of Music, the baroque design and colorful flower beds make this a photographer’s dream.
Our personal tip: Visit in the early morning or golden hour for the best light — and quieter paths.
11. Eisriesenwelt – The World’s Largest Ice Cave
Located near Werfen, Eisriesenwelt is the world’s largest ice cave, with frozen chambers that shimmer in shades of blue.
Our personal tip: We recommend joining a guided tour (open May–October) and dressing warmly — even in midsummer. This is one of Austria’s most unique attractions.
12. Grossglockner High Alpine Road
Driving the Grossglockner High Alpine Road through Hohe Tauern National Park is an unforgettable experience. With sharp turns, glaciers, and panoramic viewpoints, it’s a highlight of any Austria itinerary.
Our personal tip: Stop at Kaiser-Franz-Josefs-Höhe for breathtaking views of the country’s tallest peak, Grossglockner.
13. Olpererhütte Hike – Instagram’s Favorite View
The Olpererhütte Trail is a moderate hike in the Zillertal Alps that rewards you with a view made famous on Instagram — a suspension bridge over a turquoise reservoir.
Our personal tip: We recommend going early to avoid crowds, and staying for a hearty alpine meal at the mountain hut.
14. Dolomitenhütte (East Tyrol)
Perched on a cliff edge, the Dolomitenhütte offers one of the most dramatic views in Austria. You can stay overnight or enjoy coffee on the terrace while watching the sunset over the Lienz Dolomites.
Our personal tip: While staying there, take advantage of the unique surrounding, you have a 3-4h hike to an alpine lake, and several activities such as climbing and via ferrata if that’s what you’re into!
15. Silvretta-Hochalpenstraße
This winding high alpine road is a favorite among motorcyclists and road-trippers. With glacial valleys and rugged peaks on every curve, the drive feels like a movie scene.
Our personal tip: We recommend stopping at Lake Silvretta for panoramic views and a short lakeside walk before continuing toward Vorarlberg.
Conclusion – Discover Austria’s Fairytale Side
From the pastel houses of Hallstatt to the ice caves of Eisriesenwelt, Austria is filled with destinations that look like they belong in a storybook.
Whether you’re planning your first Austria trip or returning for more alpine adventures, we hope this guide helps you find places that inspire you.
Save this list, start building your Austria travel itinerary, and get ready to fall in love with one of Europe’s most beautiful countries.
If you’re planning a trip in Austria, you might want to check out our Hotel Guide in Vienna For Every Budget, as well as our Austrian Road Trip Itinerary!
