Austria remains the most desirable vacation destination for many tourists. The sights of Austria attract lovers of diverse cultures from all over the world. Each tour you book is accompanied by an interesting story about the sights. Professional guides reveal in full the centuries-old history and traditions of this country. Perhaps, after getting acquainted with the architectural monuments, this state will forever remain a great love, in which the sights of Austria, its history, and modernity are intricately intertwined.
What to see in Austria first of all
Regardless of whether your companions will be guides in Austria, friends or relatives, you need to decide in advance on the choice of places you want to go to. It is worth planning a route based on the number of days you will spend in a picturesque European country, your interests (nature, educational tourism, sports entertainment, etc.), as well as whether you are going to travel with children.
1. St. Stephen’s Cathedral (Vienna)
The mosaic roof of St. Stephen’s Cathedral
Each country has its own age-old symbols, in which the spirit of the nation is concentrated. The sights of Austria are headed by St. Stephen’s Cathedral. The majestic spire of St. Stephen’s Cathedral is one of such iconic concepts. Suffice it to say that the spire of the Cathedral rises to 136 meters. It can be admired from any area of Vienna. The cathedral is made in the Gothic style, it stands monumentally on the main city square.
For tourists, the Cathedral is interesting for its history and architectural beauty. The Austrians themselves revere the relic because of the abundance of cultural rarities stored inside.
These include:
- Handmade church utensils. Icons, many of which are centuries old.
Austrians respectfully call the cathedral “Steffi”. Its history is truly unique. For seven centuries it has been an integral part of Austrian culture. The architecture of the building is impressive.
There is everything here to impress the tourist’s imagination:
- Stained glass windows. Mosaic roof. Pointed towers. Noble stucco. Oval windows.
The cathedral was founded in 1359.
Conceptually, it consists of two towers: North and South. The northern one remained unfinished, its height is only 70 meters. The temple is accessible for inspection, both towers have viewing platforms for tourists.
To understand how much Austrians love all the sights of Austria and their “Steffi”, it is enough to recall that, after a devastating fire in 1945, the cathedral was restored almost entirely with charitable donations from ordinary citizens.
Official website: http://www.stephanskirche.at/
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2. Hofburg Palace (Vienna)
Imperial Residence Hofburg Palace
What could be more interesting for a tourist than the habitat of the imperial family? In Vienna, the Hofburg, which is the winter residence of the Habsburg dynasty, is carefully treated. This is a medieval castle with a history dating back many centuries. The first mention of the residence is noted in 1279.
Currently, the palace has been restored. All 2,600 halls have been completely recreated in it. Moreover, the current president uses some of the premises of the Hofburg as a personal residence. The history of the Hofburg is interesting because at different times the castle was completed by someone from the imperial dynasty. For example, the Swiss Gate appeared during the reign of Ferdinand I.
The Empress’s chambers, with their defiant luxury, appeared under Rudolf II. Leopold I built famous wine cellars in the castle. And the grandiose Spanish arena was built on the territory of the castle under Charles VI. Interestingly, horses of the Lipitian breed, known all over the world, still perform in this arena. With trepidation and shudder, tourists perceive the information that in 1938, on the balcony of the castle, Hitler proclaimed the Anschluss, which marked the annexation of Austria to Germany.
Official website: https://www.hofburg-wien.at/en/
3. Belvedere Palace (Vienna)
Belvedere Palace with garden
What to visit in Austria? The blessed Belvedere Palace complex! It was erected by order of Prince Eugene of Savoy. This happened in the 18th century, and since then the summer residence in Landstrasse has remained the pearl of Austria. The Belvedere always shines with its beauty. This is the best work in the Baroque style by Lucas von Hildebrandtom. The Prince felt protected and peaceful here, his chambers are the epitome of luxury and comfort. Maria Theresa did not slow down with the purchase of the Belvedere immediately after the death of the prince.
The Belvedere has hardly changed since the 18th century. Austrians periodically carry out restoration work, carefully preserving the historical appearance of the ensemble. The Baroque composition is formed not only by the architectural complex, but also by the gardens adjacent to it. The Austrian Gallery, known throughout the world as a repository of rare masterpieces, is also located in the palace.
Significant events are associated with the name Belvedere for Austrians:
- The signing of the Vienna Protocol in 1941. The signing of the Declaration of Independence of Austria in 1955.
To touch the historical facades of the Belvedere means to feel the living breath of Austrian history.
Official website: https://www.belvedere.at/en
4. Schoenbrunn Palace (Vienna)
Flower garden on the square in front of the Schoenbrunn Palace
In 1996, Schoenbrunn was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. The magnificent palace, which is the main imperial residence of the Habsburgs, is surrounded by a park ensemble. The exquisite sophistication of the building rivals the magnificent fountains and statues surrounding the palace.
When considering what to visit in Austria, pay attention to how Austrians cherish the spirit of history and everything that makes up the uniqueness of the Schoenbrunn residence. There are several pseudo-Roman ruins on the territory of the park, which make an indelible impression on tourists.
The first mention of the palace dates back to the 14th century in the annals of the Klosterneuburg monastery. He transferred to the Habsburg jurisdiction in 1569. The magnificent ensemble got its name due to the fact that in 1612 Emperor Matthew discovered Schöne Brunnen here, which means “beautiful springs”.
During the reign of Maria Theresa, the palace turned into the summer residence of the imperial family and was filled with sophistication that only a woman could bring to the interior. Currently, the reconstruction program of the palace is entrusted to the company Schloß Schönbrunn Kultur, which undertakes to preserve the historical appearance of the building and maintain its engineering and technical communications.
Official website: https://www.schoenbrunn.at/en/
5. Mozart House (Vienna)
The building with the inscription “The house where Mozart was born”
It is known that the great Mozart traveled the world a lot. He generously gave his talent to people, but his beloved Vienna gave him a special inspiration. Of all Mozart’s habitats, his only apartment has been preserved, which is preserved in the same form. Her address is Domgasse 5. The composer’s apartment consisted of 4 rooms and 2 offices. It was here that the opera “The Wedding of Figaro” was written, which is especially dear to the Austrians.
The period of residence in this apartment is marked by the secular popularity of the young Mozart. Countless love adventures and gushing inspiration formed the basis of the composer’s spiritual life. Mozart gladly accepted many invitations to perform in various palaces, salons and concert halls.
But most of the time he returned to this apartment, where he continued to create. The apartment was completely renovated in 2006. Currently, there is a Museum here, covering an area of 1000 square meters. The composer’s world is reproduced here delicately and subtly.
Official website: http://www.mozarthausvienna.at/
Feel the atmosphere of Austria in this beautiful video!
6. Herberstein Castle (Styria)
The courtyard of Herberstein Castle
If you don’t know what to visit in Austria, pay attention to Herberstein Castle. Its uniqueness lies in the fact that it is located on a block of stone. The castle rises more than 400 meters above sea level. Translated from German, its name means Bitter Stone. A panoramic view of the mysterious gorge opens from anywhere in the castle.
The first mention of this amazing structure dates back to the 13th century. It was then that the famous diplomatic surname Herberstein began to own the residence officially. A powerful arsenal of weapons was a reliable protection for the castle. For four centuries, he has never fallen into the hands of enemies. The Herbersteins defended their possessions to the death.
The uniqueness of architecture lies in the variety of styles. Connoisseurs distinguish the features of the Renaissance, Baroque and Gothic. Herberstein were not disposed to flashy luxury, so the castle looks austere and restrained. But its advantage is the park ensemble with the “Pavilion of Roses”, which is included in the list of “Sights of Austria”.
The dynasty includes high-born titles, including counts and barons. Membership in the diplomatic corps was inherited in this dynasty. A prominent representative of the surname is Sigmund von Herberstein, who speaks many languages. He made a career as a diplomat at the court of Kaiser Maximilian I. Nowadays Herberstein is the pride of Austria, so the castle is carefully preserved for posterity.
7. Schoenbrunn Zoo (Vienna)
Enclosures of the Schoenbrunn Zoo
The sights of Austria excite the imagination of travelers. Tourists visiting Austria need to think in advance about what to see in Austria. For example, they will be interested to know that zoos have existed in this country since the 16th century. The Schoenbrunn Zoo was founded in 1570. But previously it was considered only a menagerie. It received the status of a zoo in 1752, according to the will of Emperor Franz I.
The architecture of the zoo is interesting. Its design consists of 13 compartments forming the shape of a cut cake. Since 1799, ordinary people could come to the zoo for free. The zoo was replenished with exotic animals from America and Africa, where Joseph II organized expeditions specifically for this purpose.
Tourists are very pleased to hear the story that a baby elephant was born here in 1906. This is a unique event, because elephants have not been born in captivity so far. Currently, the zoo has been privatized, and Dagmara Schratter has become its owner. In 2002, his 250th birthday was solemnly celebrated. The issue of a 5 euro coin is timed to coincide with this moment, which depicts the central pavilion of the zoo and several animals on its background.
Official website: https://www.zoovienna.at/ru/
8. Neusiedlersee-Zewinkel National Park
The waters of the Neusiedlersee-Zewinkel National Park
What to see in Austria? Of course, the Neusiedlersee-Zewinkel National Park! The sights of Austria were replenished in 1932, when this park was organized on the shallow lake Neusiedler See. The area of the reserve is 35,000 hectares. This is a protected natural complex, which is a nesting place for many species of birds. For tourists, the reserve is interesting for its diverse landscapes. In particular, they are happy to get acquainted with reed beds, meadows and Central European steppes.
Most of all, it is interesting to visit the reserve during the seasonal bird flights. Their number is increasing several times here. The reserve was awarded the status of a national park in 1993. The protected area, along with the park, is located in the UNESCO World Network of Biosphere Reserves. The natural, natural beauty is carefully protected by the government. The condition and livestock of the bird is constantly monitored.
Interestingly, the park is located on the border with Hungary and Austria. Therefore, the natural complex was combined with the Hungarian Ferte Hanshag Nature Reserve, which is in contact with this protected area from the Hungarian side. Here you can observe the life of birds and animals in natural conditions. But travelers are no less interested in the crystal clear waters of the lake in reed and reed beds.
Official website: http://www.nationalpark
9. The cave of the ice giants Eisriesenvelt (Werfen)
Passage to the entrance of the cave of the ice giants Aisrizenvelt
The glacier cave is 407 m deep. At the same time, the volume of ice protrusions on the cave vaults exceeds 25,000 cubic meters. The cave is located at an altitude of 1,641 m in the Alps. Nature has surprisingly placed it inside the famous Hochkogel Mountain. It seems that universal secrets are gathered here. And if you haven’t decided yet what to see in Austria, the cave should be included in your plans.
The cave consists of many mysterious passages, which are naturally laid here by the river. Limestone rocks have been eroded by waters for several millennia.
Ice growths on the walls and vaults were formed during the natural melting of Alpine snow. As the avalanches descended and compressed in the cave, the water did its job. Snow masses turned into blocks of ice over the centuries. Despite the fact that tourists are allowed into the cave no further than 1 kilometer, they have enough enchanting impressions for a lifetime.
There are magnificent stalagmites here, many of which bear their own names:
- Himira Castle. A large ice embankment. The Ice Palace. Frigga’s veil.
The cave is located near the town of Werfen. Moreover, the interest of local residents in it does not dry up, as well as the curiosity of tourists.
Official website: http://www.eisriesenwelt.at/en/
10. Carinthia District
One of the mountain lakes of Carinthia
The Carinthia resort area with its blessed climate and pristine beautiful nature attracts those who think what to see in Austria. These are fans of skiing. Carinthia is the southernmost region of Austria, which borders Slovenia and Italy. The second name of Carinthia is firmly rooted all over the world – the “Austrian Riviera”.
The area is full of magnificent sparkling snow valleys and mirrored lakes. Tiny resort towns lurking along the shores of lakes and picturesque mountain slopes are famous for their exquisite hotel service.
The beach tourism infrastructure here meets the highest criteria. At the same time, tourists are attracted not only by modern ski trails, but also by the sights of Austria. They have the opportunity to get to know the palaces and castles that the land of Carinthia is famous for.
The tourist routes passing through Carinthia are interesting not only for outdoor enthusiasts. Admirers of exquisite solitude and true connoisseurs of mountain landscapes come here. The capital of Carinthia is the city of Klagenfurt. The longest lake here is Werther See, which has a length of 20 km. It seems to be squeezed between the northern mountains, so it delights with its beauty at any time of the year.
Sights of Austria: what else to visit while in Austria
If you have enough time, energy and financial resources not only for the main attractions, you should definitely go on excursions around Austria to places that are not so famous, but no less amazing in beauty and history. And do not forget to leave time for rest, so that you can always be full of energy and open to learning new sights.
11. Tauern (Tyrol, Carinthia and Salzburg)
Tauern Mountain Landscape
The largest nature reserve in Europe is considered to be the Tauern. The area of the protected area exceeds 180,000 hectares. With a relatively short history, the reserve has become one of the most popular holiday destinations in Europe. The main value of the reserve is the pristine beauty of the mountains. Here, the peaks of snow-capped mountain peaks delight with snow overflows, which is why the National Park is rightfully called the most picturesque part of Austria.
There’s plenty of everything here:
- Glacial fields of Mountain rivers. Alpine meadows.
The thundering mountain waterfalls of Krimmer and Golling sparkle in the sun with billions of splashes at any time of the year. They reflect both the sky and the sun, so they are a blessedly beautiful picture. The tourism business here is well-established to perfection, and the client centers are located in Matrait, Niedernzilla and Malnica.
12. Dachstein Mountain range (Alps)
A lake in the Dachstein mountain range
Dachstein covers an area of 600 square kilometers. It is the second highest mountain in the Alps. All over the world, this tourist route is known as the city of the three lands, since the massif is located on the territory of three Austrian regions: Upper Austria, Styria and Salzburg. Climbing the cable car, you can see the wild, untouched beauty of the mountains from above. It seems that the peaks rest against the sky itself.
A large number of caves have given rise to many legends in these places. Folk legends say that there are many good spirits here. Tourists are happy to listen to stories about them, but most of all their imagination is shaken by the panoramic views of Gosausee Lake. It gives the impression of a blue bowl surrounded by white and silver mountains.
Picturesque green slopes frame the lake from all sides. Only if you look closely, you can see traces of civilization here. Tiny campsites have the most refined service, so staying here remains in the memory for a long time.
The freshness of the local air is amazing. Just a few days later, a person feels a surge of new strength. The purity and freshness of the water in the lake is provided by thawed streams that constantly flow down the mountainside.
13. Karl-Marx-Hof (Vienna)
The facade of the Karl-Marx-Hof house
The Karl-Marx-Hof apartment building is not included in the list of “Sights of Austria”, but it is interesting in its own way. In 1927, the Social Democratic Party of Austria took the initiative to create a house of common residence for the poor. His goal was to defeat poverty. The ruling party has practically coped with this task. In parallel with the introduction of the luxury tax, the construction of a house began, which was 1,100 m long. It has 98 entrances and 1,382 apartments. The apartments have a compact square footage, the largest of them reaches 60 square meters.
The house has been built, and the socio-economic situation in the city has improved relatively. It became a monument to the desire of the city authorities to take care of the poor. But in 1934, during the February Uprising, the house was seriously damaged and was repaired only in 1950.
Interestingly, the famous movie “The Night Porter” was filmed on the basis of this house. It can be said that this building is a kind of prototype of modern residential complexes, in which, in addition to private apartments, common areas with service services are arranged.
Official website: http://dasrotewien-waschsalon.at/
14. The Alps
Alpine landscape
There are many reasons to visit Austria. There are many attractions and natural beauties here. But the main reason why tourists come here is the Alps. Their length is 500 kilometers. Skiing enthusiasts will find a real paradise here. Campgrounds and hotels with high-quality service are prepared for them. There are 70 ski areas. And they are all broken down by the levels of training of tourists. Safety is paramount here.
The Austrian service is considered the standard of service. Therefore, world celebrities come to the Alps with pleasure to relax and see all the sights of Austria.
Ski tourism here is thought out to the smallest detail. Tourists are especially pleased that the ski pass is paid at a time here. This makes it possible to change tracks almost every day, I enjoy more and more new Alpine landscapes. To all the pleasures that the ski resort promises, the divinely clean air and magnificent landscape panoramas are added, which open here to all tourists.
15. The Imperial Crypt (Vienna)
The last resting place of the Emperors
The Imperial crypt is the resting place of the emperors of the Roman and Austrian Empires, as well as the emperors of Austria-Hungary. Above the crypt is the church of the Capuchins. Emperors have been resting here since 1633. In total, 12 emperors and 19 empresses are buried here. Among other things, Napoleon 1’s second wife Maria Luisa is buried here, as well as Emperor Maximilian of Mexico.
In addition, many members of the Habsburg family were also buried here. More than 140 nobles are buried in the imperial crypt. Respect for the imperial family can be traced in the thorough ritual symbolism that the crypt is full of. There are many mourning sculptures and images here.
Tourists are interested to know that according to the ancient tradition, the hearts of the Habsburgs were buried in Silver vessels, not in sarcophagi.
The first emperors to rest in the crypt were Empress Anna and Emperor Matthew. Emperor Franz Joseph I was the last to be buried here. All the Habsburg hearts are buried in the crypt of hearts, which is located in the Augustinian Church. The funeral ceremony with the burial of hearts was held from 1654 to 1878. Currently, the crypt is under the care of Capuchins.
16. Baden Casino (Lower Austria)
Baden’s Neo-Renaissance Casino building in Lower Austria Bwag
The country of mountains, the richest architecture and the geniuses of music is charming Austria. Vienna’s attractions include hundreds of museums, art galleries, the Cathedral and dozens of other cathedrals, and many magnificent palaces. The autumn balls, the Vienna Opera, and classical music festivals are famous all over the world. Along with the large and lush cities of this country, there are small and distinctive ones that complement the true look of Austria. One of them is the town of Baden near the Vienna Forest, which is famous for its thermal springs and the famous casino, which has become a popular place for recreation and entertainment. From the point of view of architecture, this magnificent building is considered the most beautiful gambling establishment in all of Europe. Today, in the elegant atmosphere of the casino, the most passionate visitors can plunge into the world of gambling.
Official website: https://www.casinos
17. Hohensalzburg Castle (Salzburg)
Medieval Hohensalzburg Castle at the top of the Festung Mountain
Hohensalzburg Castle occupies an honorable place among the ancient fortresses of Europe, not only due to the maximum preservation of structures, but also due to its impressive size — that’s why lovers of medieval history love to visit these walls so much. This castle is the heart of ancient Salzburg, its history has been going back for 9 centuries, during which the appearance of the building has hardly changed. That is why today you can get the most accurate idea of the life of the medieval Austrian nobility, as well as visit one of the interesting exhibitions, the Princely Chambers with their preserved unique interior, the Golden Hall upholstered in leather with gold embossing. During the tour, visitors are told about the main milestones in the history of the castle and the life of its inhabitants.
Official website: https://www.salzburg
18. Swarovski Crystal Worlds (Wattens)
Exhibit of the Swarovsk Zairon Crystal Museum
When choosing where to go in Austria, in order to dilute the impressions of exploring the numerous palaces and castles with something new and original, we recommend choosing the “Swarovski Crystal Worlds”. This is a fabulous world — a world of crystals, crystal figures, paintings, sculptures and sparkling labyrinths. The fantasy museum, created by the artist Andre Heller, consists of 14 rooms of the “underground kingdom”, which is guarded at the entrance by a giant with crystal eyes and water spewing from his mouth. Guests of this unreal world can make an extraordinary journey through a colorful sparkling maze, where the boundaries of dreams and reality are completely erased. A visit to the underground city, in addition to visual sensations, involves all human senses, impresses with mysterious sounds and aromas.
Official website: https://kristallwelten.swarovski
19. Gohosterwitz Castle (Carinthia)
Austrian landscape with Hohosterwitz Castle in Carinthia
Hohosterwitz Castle on a dolomite rock 160 meters high
On the southern federal state of Carinthia, on a steep 160-meter hill and its slopes, lies one of the most picturesque forts in the country — the Hohosterwitz Castle. To get inside, you need to overcome a serpentine road with 14 fortified gates – no enemy in the thousand—year history has been able to take this castle, so its structures even today retain their original appearance. The palace complex includes two courtyards — an inner and an outer one, as well as a central residential palace and a number of other buildings. In the walls of the residential castle, you can explore medieval interiors, paintings, a collection of armor, weapons and see a wooden statue of the once famous keeper of the castle – a real person whose height exceeded 2 meters.
Official website: https://www.burg
20. Innsbruck (Tyrol)
Colorful facades of medieval Innsbruck houses along the Inn river embankment
Not only ancient monuments, but also some festive events attract tourists to the Austrian city of Innsbruck. It is located in the historical region of Tyrol, located near the border with Switzerland — that is why some of the sights of Switzerland and Austria, if desired, can be covered in one trip. But people come to Innsbruck for skiing, walking around the historical district, and of course, to visit the grandiose Christmas market on Catholic Christmas. It was during this period that Innsbruck opens up in all its magical glory, lights up with millions of neon lights, beckons with the smell of mulled wine and traditional kiahln donuts. Walking through the streets of its Old Town, you can hear live brass music, stock up on Christmas tree toys and wooden souvenirs at the Christmas market.
21. Eggenberg Palace (Graz)
View from the park of the 17th century Eggenberg Castle Palace in the Austrian city of Graz
On the outskirts of the large Austrian city of Graz, the largest aristocratic residence in Styria is located — the Baroque Eggenberg Castle, built in the 17th century. The palace was built by Prince Eggenberg in the era of great scientific discoveries, and its design is based on the true traditions of Buddhism. For example, there are only 365 windows in the castle — exactly as many as there are days a year, and the sun looks into each of them. In the park located around the castle, there are 12 gates — this number corresponds to the number of months in the year, as well as 4 towers symbolizing the four elements. Nowadays, part of the palace premises is used to showcase the archaeological collection with bronze ornaments, weapons, and antique ceramics.
Official website: https://www.museum
22. Monastery in Melka (Glimpse)
Benedictine Monastery in Melk in Baroque style on the rocky bank of the Danube River in the Wachau Valley
The courtyard of the Benedictine monastery in Melka
Austria is known for its large cities, with their ancient majestic buildings. At the same time, there are small towns and provinces where the heart and soul of Austria lives. The most beautiful small towns in Austria sometimes keep their unique, little-known history, which is revealed only to those who want to see this country from a new perspective. For example, the provincial town of Melk is the western gate of the Wachau Valley, listed as a World Heritage Site. The Abbey, founded here in 1089, brought glory to the city, and the Benedictine Monastery became the hallmark of the city. It is known for its marble hall with frescoes and a library with hundreds of thousands of books. The park of the monastery is especially beautiful, one of the parts of which has preserved the features of the Baroque, and the second was redeveloped in the 19th century in the English style.
23. Hohenwerfen (40 km from Salzburg)
Hohenwerfen Castle is surrounded on all sides by mountain ranges
The architectural sights of Austria are complemented by another magnificent structure, which seems to have descended from the pages of an ancient fairy tale. Hohenwerfen Castle is one of the most beautiful fortifications in the country, not so much because of the architecture, but because of the dizzying, magical views of the surroundings. It is located on a 155-meter elevation, surrounded by mountains overgrown with dense forests, above the valley of the Salzach River. The castle was once the residence of the princes of Salzburg, and now it houses a number of museums and exhibitions. For example, the falconry museum, an armory exhibition, a fortress tavern, folklore and local history museums are particularly successful. Sightseeing vehicles go to the foot of the hill on which the castle is located, and special funiculars are used to climb up.
Official website: https://www.salzburg
24. Krimmler Waterfall (Krimmler-Ahe River)
Krimmler Waterfall in the High Tauern National Park
Serene mountain lakes, crystal waterfalls, pristine protected parks, untouched mountain landscapes, amazing snowy valleys — Austria has collected all these treasures on its lands. The sights of nature are a great and important asset of this country. One of these treasures is the Krimmler Waterfall, located on the territory of the Hohen Tauern Nature Park. This is the largest European waterfall with a height of 400 meters, which is why it is also called the European Niagara. Three successive water cascades, falling from the stone ledges, where the highest point is 1,460 meters, at the end of their journey turn into the stormy mountain river Krimmler-Ache. The main part of the waters that feed the waterfall are the meltwater of glaciers.
Official website: https://www.wasserfaelle
25. Lake Faker-See (Carinthia)
Turquoise water of the Alpine lake Faker See in Carinthia Thomas G. Graf
Going on a trip to the sights by car, any traveler examines the horizons of possibilities that have opened up before him and wonders what to see in Austria by car. Making the way from Vienna to Venice, in the Austrian land of Carinthia, you can visit a beautiful turquoise lake, whose waters have an amazing color due to limestone particles that create a blue “glow”. Not only the lake is beautiful, but also its surrounding areas — picturesque alpine meadows, fields, pristine forests and the peaks of the surrounding Karavanken rocks. There is a wonderful tourist center on the lake with bars, clubs, supermarkets and cafes, you can also go fishing, wander along forest trails or take a horse ride. Next to Austria is Italy, a country that has had a huge impact on Western culture and cuisine. Be sure to visit this country too! Read about the sights of Italy and be inspired for your further journey through the countries of the European continent.