How To Spend Your First Time in Austria
If you’re planning your first time in Austria, you’re choosing a country that sits at the heart of Europe and delivers some of the most breathtaking scenery and unforgettable experiences on the continent!
Nestled in Central Europe and bordered by eight countries, Austria is perfectly positioned for travelers who want alpine landscapes, storybook towns, and seamless cross-border adventures, all in one trip.
From the dramatic peaks surrounding Innsbruck, to peaceful villages like Achenkirch near Lake Achensee, to the music-filled streets of Salzburg, Austria offers a wealth of experiences for first-time visitors.
Austria is also remarkably easy to explore. Efficient transportation and well-maintained roads make moving between regions and neighboring countries simple and rewarding.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to spend your first time in Austria, what destinations belong on your itinerary, and why this beautiful country often becomes more than just a one-time visit.
Where Is Austria and Why Its Location Matters
Austria is located in Central Europe, making it one of the most strategically placed countries for travelers exploring the region. It borders Germany, Italy, Switzerland, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Slovenia, and Liechtenstein, which means it’s easy to combine Austria with nearby countries on a single trip.
This central location is one of the biggest reasons Austria works so well for a first visit. Distances between cities are short, transportation is efficient, and crossing borders for day trips is simple. You can experience so many things without constantly packing up or spending long days in transit.
Innsbruck: Perfect Place to Start Your First Trip to Austria
With its location in Austria, Innsbruck is an ideal starting point for a first visit. Sitting in the heart of the Austrian Alps, the city offers immediate access to mountain scenery plus is very walkable, organized, and easy to navigate. It’s also well connected by train and road.
Innsbruck works especially well for first-time visitors because it delivers a clear introduction to what makes Austria special. You’ll find a historic old town, alpine views in every direction, and attractions that don’t require extensive planning or long travel days. Within a short time, you can explore the city center, enjoy local food, and ride a cable car into the mountains.
Fun Things To Do In Innsbruck
There are so many wonderful things to see and fun things to do in Innsbruck. A couple of the highlights are:
Take a Cable Car Into the Alps
One of the best things to do in Innsbruck is ride the Nordkettenbahn cable car, which departs right from the city and quickly transports you into the heart of the Austrian Alps.
In just minutes, you’ll go from historic streets to panoramic mountain views, making this an ideal first alpine experience.
Often referred to as “The Top of Innsbruck,” the Nordkette offers sweeping views over the city, the Inn Valley, and the surrounding alpine peaks.
For those who enjoy being on foot, you can also walk or hike parts of the area, and if you don’t want to commit to a full hike, there are plenty of scenic walking paths at the top. It’s easy to explore at your own pace while taking in the dramatic alpine surroundings.
Be sure to slow down and savor the views with a refreshment from the café at the summit. Sitting with a drink while overlooking Innsbruck and the surrounding mountains is one of those simple moments that make a first visit to Austria memorable.
Get your tickets for the Nordkettenbahn cable car here.
Visit the Bergisel Ski Jump
The Bergisel Ski Jump is one of Innsbruck’s most recognizable landmarks.
Even if you’re not a ski fan, the views from the top are worth the visit, offering sweeping perspectives over the city and surrounding mountains.
There’s also a café at the top, making it a great place to pause and take it all in.
Tickets are required to visit the Bergisel Ski Jump, but it’s a fascinating stop and well worth the time. It’s especially exciting if you’re visiting while athletes are practicing, giving you a behind-the-scenes look at the sport in action.
Visitors can also join a guided tour to learn more about the ski jump’s history, architecture, and significance in Innsbruck. Check out guided tours here to plan your visit.
Explore Innsbruck’s Historic Old Town
Innsbruck’s Old Town (Altstadt) is compact and walkable, with colorful buildings, narrow streets, and centuries of history. Highlights include:
- Triumphal Arch (Triumphpforte)
- The Golden Roof
- Swarovski Kristallwelten Store Innsbruck
- Maria-Theresien-Strasse
- Hofburg
- Hofgarten
- Domplatz
Mind Set On Travel Tip: Innsbruck offers so much to explore. Be sure to check out other things to do in the city and nearby day trips starting from Innsbruck.
How to Get to Innsbruck from an International Destination
If convenience is your priority, you can fly directly into Innsbruck Airport (INN), just minutes from the city center. You can search flights to Innsbruck here.
For more flight options and better pricing, consider flying into Munich, Germany (airport code MUC). From there, Innsbruck is just a two-hour drive through scenic Bavaria and the Austrian Alps, with an easy border crossing.
This route is convenient for first-time visitors, offering flexibility, value, and a smooth introduction to Austria’s landscapes. Search flights to Munich here to see options for your trip.
Renting a Car in Austria (or From Munich)
Whether you fly directly into Innsbruck (INN) or arrive via Munich, Germany (MUC), renting a car is a smart way to explore Austria. A car gives you the flexibility to tour at your own pace.
Driving in Austria and Germany is very similar to driving in the U.S. If you fly into Munich, the drive into Austria also gives you the chance to experience the famous Autobahn.
Having a rental car makes it easy to see as much of Austria as you can. Book a rental car here.
Where to Stay in Innsbruck
Innsbruck offers a wide range of accommodations to suit every travel style. You can check out your options here.
Achenkirch, Austria and Lake Achensee
After experiencing Innsbruck’s mix of alpine views and historic charm, it’s time to head deeper into the mountains.
Just a short drive away, the scenery opens up into quieter alpine landscapes, leading you toward Achenkirch and the shores of Lake Achensee.
This transition marks a shift from city exploration to a more relaxed, nature-focused experience.
This highlights Austria’s ability to balance vibrant cities with peaceful villages, all within easy driving distance.
A Memorable Meal at Martin’s Bistro
There are plenty of great dining options in Achenkirch, but we had a memorable experience at Martin’s Bistro.
We enjoyed a relaxed lunch on the outdoor patio, soaking in the fresh alpine air and the slower pace of Achenkirch.
One of the unique touches at Martin’s Bistro is the opportunity to pick out your own fish for lunch. It’s a simple but special detail that makes the meal feel connected to the region.
It’s experiences like this that add to the charm of Austria!
Salzburg, Austria – An Iconic Film Location
From the quiet alpine setting of Achenkirch, the journey continues east to Salzburg, one of Austria’s most recognizable and culturally rich cities. The drive is straightforward and scenic, making Salzburg an easy next stop on a first-time Austria itinerary.
Known as the birthplace of Mozart, Salzburg blends baroque architecture, historic streets, and mountain views into a compact, walkable city.
Hohensalzburg Fortress
Perched high above the city, Hohensalzburg Fortress offers sweeping views of Salzburg and the surrounding Alps.
The hike up gets your heart rate up, but the payoff is worth it.
Walking along the fortress walls and courtyards is both fascinating and scenic, offering a deeper look into Salzburg’s history.
Walk Through Linke Altstadt
Strolling through Linke Altstadt is one of the best ways to experience Salzburg. The streets are lined with shops, cafés, and historic buildings, making it easy to wander, browse, and enjoy the city’s old-world charm.
Mirabell Palace and Gardens
Mirabell Palace and its gardens provide a peaceful contrast to the city streets.
Walking through the gardens feels unhurried and scenic, with classic viewpoints framed by fountains and statues.
The gardens are easy to explore and centrally located, which makes them a natural pause in your day.
From here, you’ll also enjoy one of the best views of Hohensalzburg Fortress, making it a favorite spot for photos.
Salzburg and The Sound of Music
For many first-time visitors, Salzburg is closely tied to The Sound of Music, and taking a guided Sound of Music tour is one of the most popular ways to experience the area.
The tour brings the movie to life by visiting filming locations around Salzburg and the surrounding countryside, while also providing helpful context about the real history behind the story.
Even if you’re not a die-hard fan of the film, the tour is a great way to see beautiful landscapes, lakes, and viewpoints you might not otherwise visit on your own. It’s an easy, well-organized experience that fits nicely into a short stay and adds a fun, nostalgic layer to your first visit to Austria.
Just like Innsbruck, Salzburg is full of fascinating experiences for first-time visitors. Explore more things to do in Salzburg here.
Mind Set On Travel Tip: To make the most of your visit, consider staying in Salzburg. Check out accommodations here.
Ehrenberg Castle and the Highline 179 Suspension Bridge
Heading in the opposite direction from Innsbruck, you can enjoy a memorable stop at Ehrenberg Castle. This historic fortress is set high above the valley near the Austrian–German border.
Perched above the town of Reutte, Ehrenberg Castle is a fascinating historic site that’s perfect for history lovers and scenic explorers alike.
Walking among the castle ruins, you can imagine its strategic role in guarding the valley.
Exploring the castle ruins offers impressive views and a glimpse into the region’s medieval past.
Highline 179 Suspension Bridge
Just a short walk from Ehrenberg Castle, the Highline 179 is one of Europe’s longest suspension bridges and a must-do for thrill-seekers.
Spanning 406 meters (1,332 feet) across a deep valley, it connects Ehrenberg Castle with Fort Claudia.
Walking across the bridge is an exhilarating experience! The bridge is high enough to get your heart racing. Be sure to look down through the grating.
Mind Set On Travel Tip: When you’re driving to Ehrenberg Castle and Highline 179, keep in mind that Neuschwanstein Castle isn’t far away. If you’re flying out of Munich, you can easily include Neuschwanstein on your way back to the airport, turning your route into a scenic and memorable drive.
Oh, and Don’t Forget the Sheep and Cows!
Austria’s alpine regions aren’t just about breathtaking scenery; they’re also full of life! Listen closely, and you’ll hear the gentle jingling of bells from sheep and cows grazing across the hills.
It’s a charming soundtrack to your travels, and a reminder that the countryside has its own rhythm and magic.
These friendly animals are part of the landscape, and in a way, they love Austria as much as you will!
Whether you’re hiking through meadows, driving past alpine villages, or pausing at a scenic viewpoint, the sound of their bells adds a uniquely Austrian touch to your adventure.
6 Practical Tips for Your First Visit to Austria
- Language Tips: German is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas. Learning a few basic phrases goes a long way.
- Currency & Payments: Austria uses the Euro (€). Credit and debit cards are accepted almost everywhere, but keep some cash handy for small shops and markets.
- Pack for the Alps: Layers, comfortable walking shoes, and weather-ready clothing are a must for city streets and mountain adventures.
- Public Transport: Trains, buses, and cable cars make getting around easy. Take advantage of regional passes to save time and money.
- Use Your Camera: You’ll want to share this stunning scenery with others!
- Explore Beyond Austria: Consider short trips to nearby countries like Germany, Switzerland, or Italy if your schedule allows.
Final Thoughts: Why Austria Leaves First-Time Visitors Wanting More
Austria has a way of capturing your heart, even on your very first visit. From the historic streets of Salzburg and Innsbruck to breathtaking alpine scenery, charming villages, and iconic castles, every experience feels thoughtfully curated.
The country invites travelers to immerse themselves in wonder. First-time visitors often leave wanting more. More hikes, more views, more cobblestone streets to wander, and more moments to savor the unique blend of culture, architecture, and scenery.
That first trip often sparks the desire to return. For first-time travelers, it’s just the beginning of a love affair with Austria’s mountains, history, and timeless charm.
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