About
Austria is an Alpine country in central Europe, and it makes a rewarding destination for visitors who enjoy music, grand architecture and the mountains. Its capital, Vienna, is the best-known place to start, and the country as a whole is known as the Republic of Austria, or Österreich in German.
Music and imperial architecture
Austria is closely tied to classical music, and that heritage is part of everyday life here. In Vienna, the city's imperial architecture reflects its long role as the seat of the Habsburg Empire, when it was a major centre of power and culture. Strolling through the city centre, you can see palaces, grand public buildings and wide boulevards that reflect that past, and the many cultural traditions it inspired.
Winter sports and the Alps
Beyond the cities, the Alps shape much of the country, and winter sports are a major draw. Visitors who come in the colder months can enjoy skiing and other snow-based activities in the mountain areas. Outside winter, the same landscapes remain worth exploring for their scenery.
Planning your visit
- Vienna suits those interested in history, architecture and classical music.
- The Alpine regions suit those who want mountain scenery and winter sports.
- Combining a city stay with time in the mountains gives a good sense of the country's range.
Whether you come for its cultural life, its imperial past or its mountains, Austria offers a varied trip, and the country's classical and Habsburg traditions give it a character that is easy to appreciate.