Austria’s Hidden Gems
Introduction
Austria, a country known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes, has a wealth of attractions waiting to be discovered. While Vienna, Salzburg, and Innsbruck are popular tourist destinations, there are many lesser-known gems tucked away in this beautiful country. In this article, we will explore some of Austria’s hidden attractions that will make you fall in love with this enchanting land. So, let’s dive in and uncover Austria’s hidden gems!
5 Key Takeaways
Austria has numerous hidden gems beyond popular tourist destinations: In addition to famous cities like Vienna, Salzburg, and Innsbruck, Austria boasts many lesser-known attractions that showcase its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes.
Vienna’s lesser-known sights include Hundertwasserhaus and Kunst Haus Wien: Both designed by Austrian artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser, these colorful, whimsical buildings offer a unique visual experience and house collections of Hundertwasser’s artwork.
Salzburg, Innsbruck, Graz, and Linz offer unique attractions: From Hangar-7’s collection of aircraft and racing cars in Salzburg to the floating Murinsel in Graz and the rooftop art exhibition Höhenrausch in Linz, these cities have much to offer off the beaten path.
Austrian countryside wonders like Riegersburg Castle and Eisriesenwelt Ice Caves: Austria’s countryside is home to stunning attractions like the medieval Riegersburg Castle and the breathtaking Eisriesenwelt, the world’s largest ice cave system.
Austria is a year-round destination: Depending on your interests, you can visit Austria at different times of the year. Winter is perfect for skiing and winter sports, while spring, summer, and autumn offer excellent weather for sightseeing and outdoor activities like hiking.
Vienna's Lesser-Known Sights
Hundertwasserhaus
Although Vienna is famed for its opulent architecture, the Hundertwasserhaus deviates from the norm. Joseph Krawina, an architect, and Austrian artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser created this vibrant, quirky apartment building. A must-see site in Vienna, Hundertwasserhaus is a visual marvel with its wavy floors, mosaic-tiled facades, and rooftop gardens.
Official Website: Hundertwasserhaus
Kunst Haus Wien
Another Hundertwasser masterpiece, the Kunst Haus Wien, houses the Museum Hundertwasser and a contemporary art gallery. The building itself is a work of art, with its irregular shapes, bold colours, and quirky design elements. Inside, you’ll find a comprehensive collection of Hundertwasser’s paintings, sculptures, and architectural models, as well as temporary exhibitions of contemporary art.
Official Website: Kunst Haus Wien
Vienna Recommended Tours
Salzburg Off the Beaten Path
Hangar-7
The city of Salzburg, Austria, is well-known for its baroque buildings and the Sound of Music, but did you know it also has a world-class collection of aeroplanes and racecars? The Flying Bulls are housed in Dietrich Mateschitz’s architectural marvel, Hangar-7, which is home to his collection of vintage planes, helicopters, and Formula 1 race cars. Hangar-7 stands in stark contrast to the old buildings of Salzburg with its contemporary architecture. – “A home for planes, art lovers and connoisseurs”
Opening times:
| Monday to Saturday: | 9:00 am to 10:00 pm |
| Sunday: | 9:00 am to 8:00 pm |
| Entrance free of charge |
Official Website: Hangar-7
Hellbrunn Palace and Trick Fountains
Just outside Salzburg, you’ll find the 17th-century Hellbrunn Palace and its whimsical trick fountains. Designed by architect Markus Sittikus, these fountains feature hidden jets, mechanical figurines, and even a dining table with built-in water jets. Prepare to get wet as you explore this unique and entertaining attraction! This is a must when in Salzburg, such great fun! It is also the location to some scenes from “The Sound of Music”.
Opening times: 09:30 – 17:30 daily
Ticket: €13.50 adult , €6.50 child
Official website: Hellbrunn Palace
Salzburg Recommended Tours
Innsbruck's Unique Attractions
Swarovski Crystal Worlds
A short drive from Innsbruck, Swarovski Crystal Worlds is an enchanting world of art, design, and sparkling crystals. The iconic Giant, a massive face with crystal-filled eyes, welcomes visitors to this magical realm. Inside, you’ll find various art installations and exhibits showcasing the history and artistry of Swarovski crystals. Don’t forget to visit the stunning Crystal Cloud, a mesmerising outdoor installation featuring 800,000 crystal elements.
Opening times: 09:00 – 19:00 daily
Ticket prices: €23 adult , €7 child
Official website: Swarovski Crystal Worlds
Alpenzoo
Nestled in the heart of the Alps, Alpenzoo Innsbruck is Europe’s highest zoo, focusing on the conservation and protection of Alpine animals. The zoo is home to over 2,000 animals representing about 150 species native to the Alps, including the ibex, lynx, and golden eagle. With its picturesque setting and unique wildlife, Alpenzoo offers a one-of-a-kind experience for animal lovers. Kids will love it!
Ticket prices: €12 adult , €6 child
Opening times: 09:00 – 17:00 daily
Official website: Alpenzoo
Innsbruck Recommended Tours
Hidden Gems of Graz
Murinsel
Murinsel, or the Mur Island, is a floating platform in the middle of the Mur River in Graz. Designed by New York artist Vito Acconci, this striking steel-and-glass structure resembles a giant seashell. Murinsel functions as an event space, café, and playground, making it a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the views of Graz’s Old Town.
Opening Times: 10:00 – 17:30
Ticket price: FREE
Official website: Murinsel
Landeszeughaus
The Landeszeughaus, or Styrian Armoury, is the world’s largest historic armory, housing more than 32,000 pieces of weaponry, armor, and military equipment from the 15th to the 18th century. A visit to the Landeszeughaus will transport you back in time, giving you a glimpse into Austria’s rich military history.
Opening times: 11:00 – 18:00
Ticket price: €11 adult , €4.50 child
Official website: Landeszeughaus
Graz Recommended Tours
Linz: Beyond the Mainstream
Lentos Art Museum
Located on the banks of the Danube, the Lentos Art Museum is a striking modern building housing an extensive collection of modern and contemporary art. The museum features works by renowned artists such as Gustav Klimt, Egon Schiele, and Andy Warhol, as well as temporary exhibitions and events.
Opening times: 10:00 – 18:00
Ticket prices: €11 adult , FREE child
Official website: Lentos Art Museum
Linz Recommended Tours
Austrian Countryside Wonders
Riegersburg Castle
Perched atop a volcanic hill in the southeastern part of Austria, Riegersburg Castle is a stunning medieval fortress with a rich history. With its impressive defensive walls, drawbridges, and towers, the castle offers visitors a glimpse into the past. Don’t miss the on-site museum, which showcases fascinating exhibits on witchcraft, weaponry, and the castle’s history.
Opening times: April – October / 09:00-17:00
Ticket Prices: €21 adult , €7 child
Official website: Riegersburg Castle
Eisriesenwelt Ice Caves
Eisriesenwelt, the world’s largest ice cave system, is a breathtaking natural wonder located near Werfen, Austria. This subterranean labyrinth stretches over 42 kilometers, offering visitors a unique opportunity to explore a world of ice and rock formations. Guided tours take you through the ice caves, showcasing stunning ice sculptures and frozen waterfalls. Definitely a must when in the Werfen area!
Opening times: Daily from 29 April to the 31 October – 08:30 – 15:00
Ticket prices: €35 adult , €18 child
Official website: Eisresenwelt Ice Caves
Recommended Tour
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What is the best time to visit Austria? The best time to visit Austria depends on the activities you’re interested in. For skiing and winter sports, December through March is ideal. For sightseeing and outdoor activities like hiking, the months from April to October offer pleasant weather and beautiful scenery.
- Do I need a visa to visit Austria? Austria is part of the Schengen Area, so if you’re a citizen of a Schengen country, you won’t need a visa. Visitors from non-Schengen countries may require a visa, depending on their nationality. It’s essential to check visa requirements before planning your trip.
- What language is spoken in Austria? The official language in Austria is German, but many people, especially in tourist areas, speak English. You may also encounter people speaking other languages, such as Hungarian, Slovenian, and Croatian, in some regions.
- What is the currency in Austria? Austria uses the Euro (€) as its official currency. Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s a good idea to carry some cash, especially when visiting smaller towns and rural areas.
- Is public transportation reliable in Austria? Yes, Austria has an efficient and reliable public transportation system, including trains, buses, and trams. The ÖBB (Austrian Federal Railways) operates an extensive train network, connecting major cities and towns, while local buses and trams provide convenient transportation within cities.
Final Thoughts
Austria is a treasure trove of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. From whimsical architecture to fascinating museums, unique attractions, and breathtaking natural wonders, there’s something for everyone in this enchanting country. So, pack your bags and embark on a journey to uncover Austria’s hidden attractions!
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