We’re not going to lie: Europe is one of our favorite places to travel. From taking weekend trips across the pond in our 20s, to backpacking across multiple countries for a few months in 2019, to recently bringing our baby on his first international trip, we have lots of experience visiting many countries in Europe! The natural beauty, history, culture, food, and ease of traveling to many different places make Europe such a unique place to visit.
So you’re probably wondering the same question we’ve been asked hundreds of times: what was our favorite country to visit?! So many stand out to us for different reasons. We loved visiting the Alps for the absolute stunning beauty and unique landscapes. We loved visiting many of the famous big cities for the history and old world charm. We loved visiting the small towns in the countryside to feel immersed in local culture and escape the touristy feel.
So where did this lead us? You may be surprised by our answer!
Shockingly when we thought about it, we both came up with the same country.
Our favorite country to visit in Europe is… AUSTRIA!!
Each and every time we’ve visited Austria, we have been absolutely swept off our feet. This charming country has so much to offer and always exceeds any expectations we’ve had.
A little bit about Austria: this landlocked country has a rich history dating back to the Middle Ages, and it has been at the center of European politics, culture, and commerce for centuries. From the stunning architecture of Vienna to the beautifully preserved medieval towns, the remnants of Austria’s past are everywhere you look.
Not only is Austria full of history, the entire country is overflowing with natural beauty: from stunning mountain vistas, to crystal-clear lakes, and beautiful rolling hills. Austria is honestly such a natural wonderland that it must be seen to be believed! Whether you’re hiking or simply enjoying a leisurely walk through the city, you will be constantly surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty.
It seems like some of the surrounding countries are much more famous for their beauty, like Switzerland for example. But, we always say that some of the most beautiful and iconic landscapes in Austria can rival and even surpass those found in Switzerland. Don’t get me wrong, we absolutely loved Switzerland as well, but you can visit Austria at a much more affordable price! So if you’re looking for a European getaway that won’t break the bank, Austria is the perfect destination.
Austria is not just a country steeped in history and full of beauty, it is also a world-renowned winter sports destination. With its stunning mountain scenery and excellent ski resorts, it is no surprise that Austria has played host to the Winter Olympics numerous times. Whether you’re skiing or exploring the snow-covered hills in the Tyrol region, you’ll be surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty and lots of top notch ski resorts everywhere you turn.
But what truly sets Austria apart from other European countries is its fairytale connection. From the golden roof of the Hofburg Palace in Innsbruck to the charmingly crooked houses in the medieval towns, Austria feels like a place straight out of a storybook. It’s no wonder that it has inspired so many artists and writers over the years.
So now you may be wondering — where are the best places to visit in Austria?
Vienna
Vienna is the capital city of Austria and lies on the Danube river. This gorgeous city is the epitome of elegance and class, and is home to some of the world’s most beautiful palaces, museums, and gardens, with incredible art collections and some of the world’s most stunning architecture. You can’t miss a visit to the stunning Schönbrunn Palace or the Vienna State Opera. Vienna is also known as the city of music with some of the most famous composers in history, including Mozart, Beethoven, and Strauss, having all called Vienna home.
One of the reasons we loved Vienna was because it is also a foodie’s paradise! The city is known for its coffee culture, so be sure to grab a cup of coffee at one of Vienna’s historic cafes. Plus, you’ll find a wide variety of culinary delights, from traditional Austrian dishes like Wiener Schnitzel to international cuisine. And definitely be sure to check out the Naschmarkt, which is the largest market in Vienna and is full of delicious food stalls and vendors. This was one of our favorite stops so we went back daily during our time in Vienna to try different meals for lunch!
Salzburg
Don’t sleep on Salzburg! This picturesque city is famous for being the birthplace of Mozart and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Salzburg is full of charming narrow streets, baroque architecture, and beautiful gardens. Plus, it’s situated in the stunning Alps, offering breathtaking mountain views. You won’t want to miss the Hohensalzburg Fortress, Mirabell Palace, and the beautiful Salzburg Cathedral. Plus, don’t skip the famous Sacher Torte, which supposedly originated in Salzburg! (though Vienna tries to claim this fact as well!)
Hallstatt
Hallstatt is truly a dream: a small village situated on the shores of a crystal-clear lake surrounded by mountains. Hallstatt is often considered one of the most beautiful villages in the world, and for good reason. With its charming cobblestone streets, pastel-colored houses, and beautiful scenery, Hallstatt is truly a magical place. In the summer, you can take a boat ride on the lake, hike through the nearby mountains, or just relax and enjoy the scenery. And in the winter, you can go skiing, snowboarding, or snowshoeing! We loved every second we spent in Hallstatt and can’t wait to return again someday.
Innsbruck
It may have only been a daytrip, but our short time in Innsbruck, Austria was absolutely captivating. The entire city is surrounded by breathtaking panoramic mountain views and stunning natural beauty, and feels straight out of a storybook.
Innsbruck is a charming city that has a rich history – it has served as the capital of the Tyrol region of Austria for centuries and was an important center for trade and industry. Even today, you can see the remnants of its past in the beautifully preserved old town and in the many historical landmarks scattered throughout the city. Innsbruck is also located in the heart of the Austrian Alps, and is an absolute paradise for winter sports enthusiasts.
So if you’re planning a European getaway and are looking for a destination that offers natural beauty, charming towns, and a rich cultural heritage, don’t overlook Austria. This wonderful country is steeped in history, surrounded by beautiful natural scenery, and has a touch of fairytale magic. Trust us, you won’t be disappointed.
Extra Time Abroad is a lifestyle blog focusing on three areas: finance, sustainability, and travel. The blog is managed by husband/wife duo JJ & Janelle. They can be found on Instagram @ExtraTimeAbroad or at the airport!
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