Following my incredible experiences in France and Germany (catch up on the full itinerary here), Austria welcomed my friend and I as our third stop with open arms and alpine views that literally took my breath away. This Austria winter travel guide will show you exactly why visiting during December and January turned out to be one of the most magical parts of our entire European adventure.
I’ll be honest—I wasn’t sure what to expect from Austria beyond the Sound of Music references and ski slopes, but this country completely blew me away with its sophisticated charm and jaw-dropping natural beauty.
Winter in Austria offered crisp mountain air, cozy cities perfect for escaping the cold, and those picture-perfect moments that make you understand why people fall head-over-heels for this part of Europe. Even though we only had two days to explore, Austria left such a lasting impression that I’m already planning a longer return trip. Whether you’re following our 7-country journey or planning your own Austrian winter escape, here’s everything you need to know about making the most of your time in this incredible country.
Epic 7-Country Europe Adventure Series:
- Complete Itinerary & Travel Planning – What to do before you go, packing, accommodations, flights
- France Travel Guide – My first stop in the City of Light
- Germany Travel Guide – Castles, culture & incredible food
- Austria Travel Guide – Alpine beauty & fairy-tale villages ← You are here
- Czech Republic Travel Guide – Medieval magic in Central Europe
- Poland Travel Guide – A brief but unforgettable taste
- Belgium Travel Guide – Waffles, chocolate & medieval charm
- Netherlands Travel Guide – Canals, culture & Dutch delights
Austria Winter Travel Guide
Austria was beautiful. Embarking on a journey through Austria is akin to stepping into a fairytale; a land where verdant alpine meadows stretch to meet the sky, and charming villages nestled amidst majestic peaks whisper tales of a rich history.
From the vibrant city life of Innsbruck, where the towering Nordkette mountain range provides a breathtaking backdrop to everyday scenes, to the picturesque beauty of Salzburg’s rolling hills, Austria promises an enchanting adventure at every turn.
I only spent two days in Austria so I can’t say much about public transportation. We did take a trolly briefly, and in Salzburg we ended up taking a taxi to the castle (but the driver didn’t even drop us off in the right spot lol).
The food was very similar to the food in Germany, and due to my limited time here I unfortunately can’t say too much about it — but the food that I did have was delicious.
Hotels were more on the expensive side, so again, we opted to stay in Germany and day-trip to Austria.
As far as speaking German, that didn’t seem to be an issue because most of the people who work at restaurants and shops understand/speak enough English.
Places Worth Visiting
Innsbruck, Austria
1 Day Spent
Innsbruck, nestled in the heart of the Austrian Alps, exudes a magnetic charm that is simply captivating. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks and lush valleys, this picturesque city seamlessly blends centuries-old tradition with modern elegance.
Its vibrant streets are lined with colorful buildings adorned with frescoes, while the historic Old Town boasts architectural marvels such as the Golden Roof and the Imperial Palace.
Adventure beckons from every corner, with opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and hiking just a stone’s throw away. Yet, Innsbruck is not merely a haven for outdoor enthusiasts; it’s also a cultural hub, hosting world-class museums, theaters, and music festivals throughout the year. Whether wandering through its cobblestone alleys, savoring traditional Tyrolean cuisine, or simply soaking in the panoramic views from the Nordkette cable car, Innsbruck promises an unforgettable experience at every turn.
I thoroughly enjoyed wandering the neighborhoods looking at the old houses and imagining what it would be like to cozy up with a warm blanket, cup of coffee, and a good book in one of the window seats.
I did feel that one day here was enough, but I think a couple days would be fine if you like a slower-pace city.
Salzburg, Austria
1 Day Spent
Nestled along the banks of the Salzach River and framed by the majestic peaks of the Alps, Salzburg is a city that effortlessly weaves together its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural scene.
Best known as the birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and the setting for “The Sound of Music,” Salzburg enchants visitors with its timeless charm and captivating atmosphere. The UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town, with its narrow cobblestone streets and baroque buildings, invites exploration at every turn, revealing hidden gems such as the iconic Hohensalzburg Fortress (which I LOVED) and the resplendent Mirabell Palace and Gardens.
Art and music permeate the city’s cultural landscape, with world-class museums, galleries, and concert halls offering a glimpse into Salzburg’s illustrious past and vibrant present. Whether strolling through the enchanting Mirabell Gardens, indulging in delectable Mozartkugel chocolates, or simply soaking in the panoramic views from the city’s hilltop vantage points, Salzburg casts an irresistible spell on all who wander its storied streets.
I only spent a day here, and it did feel pretty tight to try and get it all in. I probably would recommend 1-3 days BUT it’s totally do-able to do it in one day if you stick to a timetable.
You do have to buy tickets if you want to go inside the catacombs of St. Peter’s Abbey, as well as the Hohensalzburg Fortress (which FYI takes a few hours to see because it’s big). There is a funicular to take you up to the fortress, but the line for that was crazy IMO. So if you’re able-bodied just walk. It’s not that bad.
After being enchanted by Austria’s alpine beauty, our next destination completely shifted the vibe of our European adventure. The Czech Republic awaited us with something totally different—medieval magic, incredible value, and that authentic Eastern European charm that made every interaction feel genuine. From stepping into what felt like a living storybook in Prague to discovering hidden gems in charming smaller towns, the Czech Republic proved that sometimes the most captivating destinations are the ones that catch you completely off guard.
Continue Reading: Czech Republic Travel Guide – Medieval Magic in Central Europe →
