Located in the middle of Europe and composed of nine federated states, Austria is one of the continent’s most compelling countries. 

The nation has a population of nearly nine million. So you can imagine how much beauty and interest this place holds if so many desire to reside within its borders. 

With a history of famous musicians, renowned artists, and an abundance of breathtaking scenery and architecture, it’s time to start planning your vacation to the enchanting nation of Austria. 

Here are some of our favorite hidden gems in Austria.

★    Hohensalzburg Fortress

As the most monumental and famously preserved citadel in Central Europe, the Hohensalzburg Fortress is undoubtedly one to behold in person. 

Tourists from all over come to explore this longstanding medieval fortress. 

While touring through the castle, plan to visit the staterooms, torture chamber, and museums. Set aside a day from your schedule because you want to take your time with this visit. 

★    Visit Salzburg’s Old Town

While in Austria, make sure to mosey on through Salzburg’s Old Town to get acquainted with the cobblestone streets, quaint alleyways, preserved 15th-century buildings, and awe-inspiring architecture. 

The Old Town even contains some of the best shopping around, making it perfect for picking up souvenirs and grabbing something delectable to munch on. 

★    Salzburg Marionette Theatre

Established in 1913, the Salzburg Marionette Theatre is one of the oldest marionette theatres in the world. Live actors were used in the productions at this theatre, and as of today, the theatre is used to record live soundtracks. 

For marionette productions, there are over 500 characters that are still used, including the entire cast in The Sound of Music. In addition, the puppet masters for the theatre perform operas from composers such as Tchaikovsky, Shakespeare, Mozart, and Saint-Exupéry using their wooden characters.

★    Panorama Museum

Johann Sattler, a well-known painter from the 1820s, painted a remarkable wall with an in-depth panoramic view of Salzburg. 

This painting included great detail, not just of the buildings and architecture of the Austrian state but of the residents and their everyday lives from over 200 years ago.

★    Guided Sound of Music Tour

Now’s your time to hit up all the beautiful locations you grew up watching in the classic film, The Sound of Music. 

With over 15 sites, you’ll want to see Mirabellgarten, Hellbrunn Palace, and the Nonnberg Abbey. Even if you choose not to take a guided tour, at least visit these iconic spots. 

★    The Home of Mozart

Once Mozart’s family moved away from his birth home, they moved next to the Salzach River. Today, this home is known as Mozart’s Residence Museum, where you can get an inside view of how Mozart grew up and the delicate artifacts of his past. 

★    St. Peter’s Cemetery and Catacombs

Dating back to the 1600s, St. Peter’s Cemetery and Catacombs are Salzburg’s first Christian burial grounds. 

Since 696, monks have been coming to the monastery to pray, live, and work. This site is certainly one to behold. It isn’t just a place to mourn but a place that features gorgeous architecture and rock caves in the Mönchsberg. 

★    The Klessheim Palace

Once upon a time, this magnificent Baroque structure acted as the residence of Salzburg’s Archbishops. 

Now the Salzburg Casino, it is a beautiful place to partake in a bit of gambling, but that’s not all. The interior design, gardens, and pleasure grounds are all worth seeing.

 If you make this trip, dress appropriately. There is a dress code for all those who visit. 

★    Sachertorte & Coffee

Germans are known for their amazingly thick, decadent chocolate cakes. 

So make your way to Sachertorte & Coffee for a piece of the most exquisite dessert around, the Sachertorte. 

★ Christmas Market/Christkindlmarkt

If you visit Austria anytime in November or December, you must make it to the Christmas Market. 

This age-old event will create memories that last a lifetime. The smell of roasted chestnuts and mulled wines fill the air as you walk through the three squares, Domplatz, Kapitelplatz, and Residenzplatz, taking in the true essence of the beautiful holiday. 

★    Christmas Museum

You must attend the Christmas Museum if you make it to the Christmas Market. 

Luckily, Salzburg’s Christmas Museum is a year-round attraction. 

This museum will teach you all there is to know regarding the spirit of Christmas and its history. 

★    Salzburg Open-Air Museum

There is so much to experience at the Open-Air Museum. 

With structures and artifacts that date back to the 16th century, you will get an intimate view of how the natives lived centuries ago. 

There are over 100 historic structures, so prepare for a long, exciting day. 

★    Stiegl Brauwelt

Calling all beer enthusiasts! 

This brewery will teach you all about the history of beer through its enjoyable beer tasting and exhibits. 

You want to experience this multi-sensory experience. 

★    Toy Museum

Whether you brought the kids along or left them at home, you should stop at the Toy Museum. This museum holds the most extensive assortment of toys from around Europe. 

Nearly the entire museum is hands-on and interactive, so there’s no doubt you’ll feel like a kid again. 

★    While in Town, Get a Horse and Carriage Ride 

Horse and carriage rides are popular forms of transportation when you’re trying to get around town. 

The tourists especially love them, and for a good reason! Taking a carriage ride is one of the best ways to learn about the city as you see it from a unique perspective. 

★ Last but Not Least, Try Austrian Food

This one may be obvious, but you can’t leave Austria without trying some of its authentic cuisines and traditional foods.

Austrians love their red meats, bread, and potatoes. So pair a mulled wine or freshly brewed beer with a hearty meal at least once before you head home. 

Some of the classic dishes you should consider include strudel, wiener schnitzel, tafelspitz, and speckknödel. 

If you need help figuring out where to start planning, we’d love to help you. We work with many different budgets and styles of travel. So reach out today to arrange a quick 15-minute chat at a time that suits you. 

Email us at: donna@treasuredstoriestravel.com or laura@treasuredstoriestravel.com