Austria, as a unified state, emerged from the remnants of the Eastern and Hungarian March at the end of the first millennium, first as a frontier march of the Holy Roman Empire, it then developed into a Duchy in 1156, and was made an Archduchy in 1453. Austria is a great holiday destination with impressive nature and rich culture. You can explore marvellous Alpine landscapes, historic cities and first-class ski resorts.

Understanding the Context

Discover Austria. Explore Austria facts, culture, history & comprehensive country profile with maps, statistics & research resources for students & travelers. Geographical and historical treatment of Austria, including maps and statistics as well as a survey of its people, economy, and government. Travel to Austria and experience nature, mountains and lakes, and cultural treasures.

Key Insights

Everything you need to know from Austria's official travel portal. Austria is a landlocked mountainous country located in South-Central Europe. It is geographically positioned both in the Northern and Eastern hemispheres of the Earth. The parts of Austria that are most suitable for settlement – that is, arable and climatically favorable – run north of the Alps through the provinces of Upper Austria and Lower Austria in the Danube Valley and then curve east and south of the Alps through Lower Austria, Vienna, Burgenland, and Styria. [1] From regal Vienna to the high peaks of the Alps, here are the best places to visit in Austria.

Final Thoughts

12 of the best places to visit in Austria - Lonely Planet The list of what to see in Austria is a long one, but we have summarised the best in this short guide: here are the must-see attractions in Austria, grouped into four types so that you can immediately find what best suits your type of holiday.