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Things to do in Austria

Our most recommended things to do in Austria

Vienna: Play with the Orchestra at Schönbrunn Palace

1. Vienna: Play with the Orchestra at Schönbrunn Palace

Step into the role of conductor for a one-of-a-kind experience at Vienna's Schönbrunn Palace. Play easy instruments with the orchestra in pre-concert rehearsals, take a once-in-a-lifetime guided tour of the Palace after hours, and witness iconic symphonies in concert with Category A seating. Begin at the exclusive Schönbrunn Orangery, where Mozart himself once conducted. Get a behind-the-scenes look at the Schönbrunn Orchestra in pre-concert rehearsal and join in by playing the triangle or bells. Then, command the orchestra yourself with a nod of your baton and hear the notes rise at your fingertips. Take a break to savor a well-deserved Viennese snack with drinks and pastries, such as cinnamon rolls or apple strudel. At the end of rehearsal, say goodbye to the orchestra and receive a certificate to remember your day at Schönbrunn Palace. Then, embark on an after-hours tour of Schönbrunn Palace for your group only. Follow your guide through the empty Palace and marvel at the immense wealth of the Habsburg dynasty. Discover the history behind each turn as you explore the opulent Rococo staterooms and vast halls. Watch the Schönbrunn orchestra perform world-famous compositions at the evening concert and experience classical music as it was meant to be heard in this historic venue. Enjoy a privileged view with Category A seating as the orchestra whisks you into the night.

Salzburg: Original Sound of Music Tour

2. Salzburg: Original Sound of Music Tour

On this half-day tour you'll relive scenes from one of the most popular movies of all time. Visit the locations used during the filming of The Sound of Music in Salzburg and its surrounding countryside. During the tour, you’ll also hear songs from the original soundtrack. Let your guide show you the architectural and historical landmarks of the city and the picturesque Lake District. See Leopoldskron Palace, a place whose exterior was used as the Trapp family home and where the children were seen boating on the lake and jumping into the water. Maria was a novice at Nonnberg Abbey, the oldest convent in German-speaking Europe, and your next stop. The St. Gilgen and Lake Wolfgang scenes shown at the beginning of the movie were actually filmed at Lake Fuschl, on the way to St. Gilgen, which you'll also see today. The wedding scene was filmed at Mondsee Cathedral, a buttery yellow-and-white edifice where you'll stop on the tour. Maria, led by Liesl, walked down the aisle to meet the baron in front of the stairs of the main altar. After dropping you off in Salzburg at the end of the tour you can visit Mirabell Gardens, located just opposite the tour terminal. Maria and the children were seen dancing through the Gardens singing Do-Re-Mi..

From Salzburg: Half-Day Tour to Hallstatt

3. From Salzburg: Half-Day Tour to Hallstatt

Embark on a half-day scenic tour through the Salzkammergut to Hallstatt. See the town of Hallstatt on a guided tour and explore at your own pace after. Admire the Mullbach waterfall and the Bone House. Start the trip from Salzburg with a drive through the famous Salzkammergut en route to Hallstatt, known as the Pearl of the Salzkammergut. The route will take you through a number of charming villages, as you listen to an introduction to Hallstatt and the Salzkammergut. If you wish to do the Hallstatt Skywalk, please make your own arrangements and also considering an hour timewise from your 2.5 hours stay in Hallstatt.   On arrival in Hallstatt, enjoy 2.5 hours of free time to take in the sights. Take a leisurely walk along the lake and marvel at how the houses above you seem to cling onto the mountainside. Pass by the Mullbach waterfall and visit the local museum. A must-see attraction is the Bone House behind the Catholic church, which will give you an interesting view into local family life (admission not included). You’ll then begin the return journey via Abtenau and Russbach to Gosau, where you’ll see the Gosau Lake and admire the views of the Dachtsein mountains.

Vienna: Vivaldi’s Four Seasons Concert in Karlskirche

4. Vienna: Vivaldi’s Four Seasons Concert in Karlskirche

Experience Vivaldi’s Four Seasons, a masterpiece of classical music. Visit Vienna’s Karlskirche and listen to the concertos of a string quartet and basso continuo. The performance by Orchestra 1756, a classical period instrument ensemble, makes this concert extraordinary. Enjoy a journey through time with this evening concert and experience unforgettable moments with historical sounds. The Four Seasons includes four of twelve revolutionary violin concertos that interpret each season of the year. Four sonnets are the inspiration for this masterpiece that takes you into a world of sound, with thunder and lightning, cracking ice and birdsong, a sleeping shepherd boy, hunting parties, and many other places. Program: Le quattro stagioni – The Four Seasons Spring, Op. 8 Nr. 1 Summer, Op. 8 Nr. 2 Autumn, Op. 8 Nr. 3 Winter, Op. 8 Nr. 4 One or two additional parts which are changing from week to week and could be from these composers: Works by W. A. Mozart, J. S. Bach, H. I. F Biber, and other major composers.

Vienna: Spanish Riding School Training

5. Vienna: Spanish Riding School Training

Visit the Spanish Riding School of Vienna and observe the horses during their training. In the magnificent setting of the baroque Winter Riding Academy, the training offers an insight into the years of training of the Lipizzaners and their riders. The morning exercise of the horses is accompanied by classical Viennese music. The Training includes relaxation exercises, refining and perfecting movement, and strengthening certain muscles. The famous school jumps levade, courbette, and capriole, which are shown as part of the performances by the Spanish Riding School, are not practiced on a daily basis and can only sometimes be seen during the morning exercise. The white Lipizzaner stallions are put through their paces by their riders almost every day. The primary objective of the morning exercise is to maintain the horses’ athleticism and health, as well as to build up various muscle groups that are necessary for performing the exercises of the haute école.

Salzburg: Best of Mozart Fortress Concert and Dinner

6. Salzburg: Best of Mozart Fortress Concert and Dinner

Enjoy arrival and departure on the funicular railway to hear the classic piece "Eine Kleine Nachtmusik" while you enjoy a romantic dinner and concert in Salzburg. Admire the views from the Mozart fortress. Begin your evening with a romantic 3-course dinner. Experience a truly exceptional atmosphere at the 900-year-old fortress. Dine in the exclusive Panorama restaurant, which is located at the fortress and overlooks the old city of Salzburg. Next, hear Mozart's most beloved work as well as other masterpieces by the famous classical composer, interpreted by internationally-renowned soloists. After the concert, experience Mozart's city at twilight as the evening comes to an end. Classic Dinner Menu • Mini bread rolls with 2 different spreads • Consommé of beef with semolina dumpling • Corn chicken breast supreme with vegetable rice and fruity sauce • Mozart dessert VIP Dinner Menu • Mini bread rolls with 2 different spreads • White wine soup with roasted Marcona almonds • Sous vide cooked short ribs from local beef on truffled peas mashed potatoes and grilled "tomato de Roma" or • Salzburger gold trout „Müllerin Art“ with rosemary potatoes • Salzburger Nockerl - Fluffy egg soufflé with vanilla cream & berries *Vegetarian options are available upon request Menus subject to changes! Salzburger Mozart Ensemble Extract from the program W.A.MOZART: "A LITTLE NIGHT MUSIC" W.A.MOZART: Piano Quartet J. HAYDN: String Quartet W.A.MOZART: Clarinet Quintet F.SCHUBERT: Trout Quintet A.DVORAK: Waltzes J.STRAUSS: Waltzes, Polka and more Mozart Kammerorchester Salzburg May to October every Thursday, Friday, Saturday Taking place in the most magnificent room in the city - the Golden Hall in the 900 year-old Fortress Hohensalzburg - the "Mozart - Strauss Orchestra Concerts" are unique to Salzburg. The Mozart Chamber Orchestra of Salzburg is a highly professional and internationally sought-after chamber orchestra and plays in a line-up which regularly shifts in size. Deeply steeped in tradition, it predominantly performs the musical treasures of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Johann Strauss. Extract from the program: W. A. MOZART: "A LITTLE NIGHT MUSIC" W. A. MOZART: Symphony KV 138 W. A. MOZART: Piano Concert J.S. BACH: Concert for 2 Violins J. STRAUSS: Waltzes, Polka and more The program is subject to modification.

Vienna: Hallstatt & Alpine Peaks Day Trip with Skywalk Lift

7. Vienna: Hallstatt & Alpine Peaks Day Trip with Skywalk Lift

Explore the stunning region of Salzkammergut, a Unesco World Heritage Site on a guided tour. See the snow-white castle, the beautiful alpine regions, Hallstatt town, and more. Enjoy a convenient pickup directly from your centrally-located Vienna hotel or opt to head to a central meeting point if you're staying at a hotel outside of the pickup area or in other accommodations like an apartment. Board your bus and depart to the stunning region of Salzkammergut. Your first stop is the Schloss Ort, a snow-white castle where countless couples dream of celebrating their weddings. Take the opportunity to snap some photos on its famous wooden bridge. Continue to the heart of the Salzkammergut region, the fabulous town of Hallstatt, set on the shores of an azure-blue lake. Ascend to the Skywalk to enjoy breathtaking views over the town, lake, and mountains. You will have some free time for lunch, or to wander the narrow streets of the town. Admire the unforgettable natural landscape of the area, before continuing to Vienna where your tour will end at the Vienna State Opera.

Vienna: Schönbrunn Palace & Gardens Skip-the-Line Tour

8. Vienna: Schönbrunn Palace & Gardens Skip-the-Line Tour

Visit the Schönbrunn Palace and Gardens and gain quick access inside this Viennese gem on a guided tour that includes skip-the-line tickets. Follow a licensed guide through lavish interiors, learn about the Habsburgs Royal Family, and explore the ornate palace gardens. Meet your guide in front of the palace and start with an informative introduction to the history of the royal compound. Receive a modern audio device so that you can always hear the tour’s live narration along the way. Benefit from priority entrance tickets and gain quick access inside the palace. Marvel at the grand entrance and begin your guided walk through 22 staterooms of the famous Austrian palace. Admire the 40-meter long Great Gallery and the Hall of Ceremonies and see how the Habsburg Dynasty lived as you stroll through lavish halls and peek into private chambers. Listen to entertaining stories about the former royals, which are infused typical Viennese humor by your local and friendly guide. Learn not only about the fascinating history of the royal family of Habsburgs and the famous Empress Sissi but also about how the palace has evolved in modern times and where the royal descendants now live. Following the tour, enjoy the opportunity to walk around the gardens at your own pace and catch a glimpse of the Gloriette, an arch on top of a hill overlooking Vienna’s forests.

Vienna: Upper Belvedere & Permanent Collection Entry Ticket

9. Vienna: Upper Belvedere & Permanent Collection Entry Ticket

The Belvedere in Vienna is one of the leading museums worldwide. Its famous art collection includes works ranging from the Middle Ages to the present day. The unique complex, with its two palaces of the Upper and Lower Belvedere and extensive gardens, is one of the most stunning Baroque architectural marvels in the world. Highlights include the world's largest collection of Gustav Klimt paintings as well as prominent works from the periods of Viennese Biedermeier, Austrian Baroque, Vienna around 1900, and French Impressionism. Now, for the first time in decades, the museum will once again host large-scale special exhibitions that you can admire on your visit. In the 18th century, the Austrian general Prince Eugene of Savoy commissioned the renowned Baroque architect Johann Lukas von Hildebrandt to build the complex. After the death of Prince Eugene, Empress Maria Theresa acquired the entire complex and transformed the Upper Belvedere into an exhibition venue for the imperial collections – making it one of the first public museums in the world. The Lower Belvedere, formerly the residence of Prince Eugene, is home to illustrious exhibitions. The Baroque gardens of the Belvedere rank among the most beautiful in the world. The main garden is situated between the Lower and the Upper Belvedere and extends over three large terraces. The Belvedere park is also home to the Botanical Garden and the oldest Alpine garden in Europe.

Vienna: Skip-the-line Tickets for Schönbrunn Zoo

10. Vienna: Skip-the-line Tickets for Schönbrunn Zoo

Visit Schönbrunn Zoo, the oldest zoo in the world and Europe’s best zoo five times in a row. Part of a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site with the imperial summer residence of Schönbrunn Palace at its center, experience the zoo’s unique blend of culture and nature, promotion of conservation and biodiversity, and imperial charm. 700 Species: From Anteaters to Zebras See 700 species from all over the world, some of which are critically endangered. Explore a 17-hectare site and find giraffes, orangutans swinging from ropes, Siberian tigers dozing on their platforms, koalas munching through piles of eucalyptus leaves, African elephants wallowing in their mud baths, and meerkats rolling around and digging in the sand. Star Attraction: Giant Pandas Get to know the zoo’s most popular residents, the giant pandas. Learn about how Schönbrunn is only one of a handful of zoos worldwide entrusted with a pair of pandas by the People’s Republic of China. Understand the ways that the zoo is unique in helping this endangered species to breed naturally. World Tour of the Animal Houses Take refuge from any poor weather in the numerous animal houses. Lose yourself in the two-story rainforest house, which is home to a rich variety of tropical flora and fauna. Lock eyes with shimmering fish and fascinating reptiles in the aquarium terrarium. See death’s head monkeys and red-ruffed lemurs. Get an underwater view of the seals and penguins in the Polarium. Watch polar bears diving below the at the neighboring Polardom. Find out interesting facts about rare breeds of farm animals at the Tirolerhof.

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What people are saying about Austria

Overall rating

4.4 / 5

based on 51,559 reviews

Tandem paragliding Tirol: I absolutely loved it and would do it again! Five stars! I did it in the winter spring transition season but still the temperature on that day was 0 degree C. The top of the mountain was covered fully with ice. I was not aware of the kind of shoes we use for this sort of activities and ended up with a regular running shoes. Peter was kind enough to offer me hiking shoes of my size. He was very good with communication as he has been doing this for more than a decade. It is important to do this with an experienced pilot and I was lucky to choose Peter. The flight experience was surreal and freaking cold. We had a long and perfect flight, however. If you have any doubts you can ask Peter even before making the trip. Enjoy the once in a lifetime experience if you are doing this for the first time! SRK

Authentic Viennese food experience that was equal parts educational, entertaining and DELICIOUS! Our guides Wolfy and Maxine were fantastic and very knowledgeable about Vienna food, history, and culture. I would highly recommend this tour and it’s a great value for the money because all the food and drinks are included. I’m so glad I didn’t waste my money on a Naschmarkt tour and opted for this. Truly one of the highlights.

Edwin was a great tour guide, and takes excellent photos! He knows all the great local spots away from the crowds of tourists, and will customize the tour to your interests. We strolled around a beautiful town, learning about local customs and culture, and didn't have to worry about snapping photos because Edwin took care of that for us. I would highly recommend this experience!

Robert was amazing. Very nice! And even offered us water. We had a great tour

My family and I had the most amazing experience and exceptional service!