Sightseeing in Austria is inexhaustible with myriad opportunities for breathtaking sights in historic cities and picturesque villages. There’s a lot to see and do in Austria, and this guide will take you from the cultural richness of Salzburg to the Alpine charm of Innsbruck, embracing the country’s beauty and heritage in the best possible sightseeing tours.
♦ Salzburg: A Melodious Journey Through History
Salzburg is internationally famous for being the birthplace of the great Mozart and for the setting for ‘The Sound of Music.’ Still it has much more to offer from a cultural and architectural point of view. Here are some unmissable sightseeing experiences:
1. The Sound of Music Tour:
- Highlights: Go exploring iconic filming locations made famous throughout the film: Mirabell Gardens, Leopoldskron Palace and Mirabell Gardens, Mondsee Cathedral.
- Duration: Approximately 4 hours
- Price: €50 per person
- Why It’s Worth It: For fans of the movie as well as anyone who wants to see amazing landscapes and learn the history of Salzburg’s rich cinematic heritage.
2. Salzburg Old Town Walking Tour:
- Highlights: Salzburg Cathedral, Getreidegasse (Mozart’s birthplace), and St. Peter’s Abbey are all UNESCO World Heritage sites, you’ll visit them.
- Duration: 2 hours
- Price: €20 per person
- Why It’s Worth It: See the Baroque beauty of the city and lesser known sights with a local guide.
3. Hellbrunn Palace and Trick Fountains:
- Highlights: See the palace, gardens and playful trick fountains of the 17th-century palace.
- Duration: 2-3 hours
- Price: €15 per person
- Why It’s Worth It: A mixture of history and a bit of entertainment, perfect for families and folks just curious.
♦ Hallstatt: A Fairy-Tale Village
Hallstatt is one of Austria’s most photographed spots and is nestled by a serene lake. These sightseeing tours will help you make the most of your visit:
4. Hallstatt Guided Day Trip
- Highlights: Offers a visit to the Hallstatt Sky Walk, the Salt Mine and the scenic old town.
- Duration: 8-10 hours off Salzburg or Vienna
- Price: €120-150 per person
- Why It’s Worth It: Great choice for a hassle free trip with transportation and commentary from the expert.
5. Lake Hallstatt Boat Tour
- Highlights: Scenic beauty of Hallstatt seen from the water.
- Duration: 1 hour
- Price: €10 per person
- Why It’s Worth It: Perfect experience of the Village’s charm and natural view of everywhere.
Also Read: Best Day Trips Near Major Cities to Explore in 2025
♦ Innsbruck: Where Alpine Wonders Meet Urban Elegance
Innsbruck is known primarily as the capital of the Alps where you get the best of both worlds: modern city life and breathtaking mountainscape. Here are the top sightseeing tours in and around Innsbruck:
6. Nordkette Mountain Cable Car Ride:
- Highlights: Full scenic views of the Alps and stops at Seegrube and Hafelekar peaks.
- Duration: Flexible (2-4 hours)
- Price: €40 per person
- Why It’s Worth It: Great for those seeking adventure enthusiasts and photographers maximal views at sea level.
7. Innsbruck Old Town Walking Tour:
- Highlights: Look at the Golden Roof, Imperial Palace, and St. Jacob’s Cathedral.
- Duration: 1.5-2 hours
- Price: €15 per person
- Why It’s Worth It: Explore interesting Innsbruck’s history and the works of its architecture.
8. Swarovski Crystal Worlds Shuttle and Tour
- Highlights: The famous Swarovski museum and gardens in nearby Wattens are a visit you must make.
- Duration: Half-day
- Price: €25 per person (excluding entry to the museum)
- Why It’s Worth It: Dazzling crystal installations that are a must see for art and design lovers.
♦ Vienna: The Imperial Experience
Yes, there is no such trip to Austria without a trip to Vienna, the imperial history and artistic heritage capital. Consider adding these tours to your itinerary:
9. Schönbrunn Palace and Gardens Tour
- Highlights: See the country’s imperial heritage inside this grand palace.
- Duration: 3 hours
- Price: €30 per person
- Why It’s Worth It: A fantastic tour of one of Europe’s greatest palaces.
10. Vienna Ringstrasse Tram Tour:
- Highlights: Enjoy a view of the Vienna State Opera, Parliament and City Hall from a tram.
- Duration: 1 hour
- Price: €10 per person
- Why It’s Worth It: An easy way to wander around Vienna’s historic boulevard.
Tips for Sightseeing in Austria
- Plan Ahead: During peak seasons a lot of tours tend to require advance booking.
- Pack Accordingly: Clothes in layers and wear comfortable shoes to change to Austria’s very variable climate.
- Leverage Local Guides: In addition, guided tours give you fascinating insights and stories.
- Use Public Transport: Austria has very efficient train and bus networks, making getting from National Park Hohe Tauern to National Park Tyrol easy and eco friendly.
Austria’s got sightseeing for everyone: history buffs, nature lovers, or art enthusiasts. These tours from the cultural allure of Salzburg to the Alpine grandeur of Innsbruck will provide memories you can never forget in one of Europe’s most enchanting destinations. An adventure awaiting you already begins now!
