GCC travellers looking for a unique summer vacation experience need not look any further than Austria. With its stunning landscape, rich culture, and delectable cuisine, Austria is the ideal destination for those seeking a blend of natural beauty and cultural immersion. Its natural marvels, bespoke hospitality, and diverse offerings make it an unforgettable destination for all types of travellers. Furthermore, Austria’s moderate summer climate offers a refreshing break from the scorching season, enabling visitors to explore the country’s attractions without feeling overwhelmed. From the world’s largest ice cave to the oldest salt mine, Austria’s diverse natural landscape and rich cultural heritage provide something for everyone. To help narrow down the options, we have handpicked five of the top must-visit attractions for travellers this summer. These attractions showcase the very best of Austria’s fascinating history and stunning scenery, providing an unforgettable experience.
1- Grossglockner High Alpine Road – The most beautiful panoramic road in Europe: Located in the heart of the Hohe Tauern National Park, the Großglockner High Alpine Road is a scenic mountain route that showcases breathtaking views of the Austrian Alps. The road ascends to an elevation of 2,571 meters and presents stunning vistas of Austria’s highest mountain, the Pasterze Glacier, and the surrounding alpine landscape. Travellers can stop at numerous lookout points and visit nine free exhibitions, including one of the highest contemporary art exhibitions. The route also offers opportunities to see marmots, ibex, waterfalls, and the most beautiful box seats in the Alps, providing a truly awe-inspiring experience of the mountains and valleys.
2- Eisriesenwelt – The world’s largest ice cave: Located in the Tennengebirge mountain range in Werfen, Eisriesenwelt is a spectacular natural wonder that attracts visitors from all over the world. The cave extends over 42 kilometers and has a stunning display of ice formations that are over 1,000 years old. Visitors can take a guided tour of the cave and witness the breathtaking beauty of ice crystals, frozen waterfalls, and towering ice sculptures.
3- Krimmler Waterfalls – Europe’s highest waterfalls: Located in the Hohe Tauern National Park, Krimmler Waterfalls is a majestic natural wonder that offers a stunning view of three cascading waterfalls that fall from a height of 380 meters. Visitors can take a leisurely hike along the waterfall trail and enjoy the fresh mountain air and picturesque scenery.
4- Hallstatt Salt Mine – The world’s oldest salt mine: Nestled in the picturesque village of Hallstatt in the Salzkammergut region (Austria’s lake district with over 76 lakes), the Hallstatt Salt Mine has been in operation for over 7,000 years, making it of the world’s oldest and most remarkable mines. Visitors can take a guided tour of the mine and learn about the history of salt mining in the region. The tour includes a ride on a funicular railway and a visit to a subterranean salt lake that is said to have healing properties.
5- Schönbrunn Palace – Home of the world’s oldest zoo: Located in Vienna, Schönbrunn Palace is a magnificent baroque palace with extensive splendid gardens that was the summer residence of the Habsburg monarchs. The palace also houses the world’s oldest zoo, which was founded in 1752. The zoo is home to over 700 species of animals, including pandas, tigers, and polar bears, and is a popular attraction for visitors of all ages.
And while exploring Austria’s natural and cultural attractions, visitors can indulge in the country’s renowned cuisine and hospitality, with traditional dishes like Wiener Schnitzel and Kaiserschmarrn being served alongside regional specialties like SalzburgerNockerl or Käsespätzle. In addition, convenient direct flights to Vienna and Salzburg, as well as a reliable public transportation system, make it easy for GCC travellers to access these top five destinations and experience the best of Austria.
