Gosau Lakes
If you are a sucker for beautiful views, clear waters, and a great place to hike, Gosau Lake is the right place for you. This lake is one of the most beautiful and often highly visited places in Austria and for good reason too. While here, you will have the opportunity to hike the trails and take in the beautiful landscape around you. Once done, you can dip your toes in the water, fish, and take some pictures to capture the landscape around you.
Best Time To Visit
Visit during the summer months when the sun is high up in the sky and the weather is ideal. If you plan to hike or swim, you want to make sure you pack all your essentials and arrive early to claim your spot.
You Should Know
If you are brave enough, you can rock climb up some of the mountains. There is a small place to grab some food on the mountain. 
Hohenwerfen Castle
The Hohenwerfen Castle boasts a beautiful landscape that one must stop and take a picture of. Within the castle is a complete exhibition of history including ancient weaponry. One of the highlights of the castle is the falconry shows that are put on throughout the day. In addition to the museum-like exhibits, the castle is home to additional events including theatre productions, hikes, and much more.
Best Time To Visit
Tours of the castle occur from April through November and the times vary throughout the day. The best time is at any time in between. Guests who wish to tour the castle should speak with the castle staff to ensure an available time slot is open.
You Should Know
They offer both guided and self-paced tours. Falconry demonstrations take place between April and November.
The Grossglockner High Alpine Road
Known as one of the top three destinations in Austria, the Grossglockner High Alpine Road is a place you want to visit. The road itself twists and turns throughout the area and brings you in contact with beautiful mountainside landscapes and more. The road contains 36 turns and your adrenaline is sure to pump as you discover all that is around you.
Best Time To Visit
It is best to visit during the summer months as harsh winters are known to cause some of the trails to close. In general, the park opens up for guests to drive on the road in early May and remains open until late October. It is important to note that the time the road opens does vary based on the season and guests should check prior to planning their day.
You Should Know
It does cost 37 Euros per vehicle and 27 Euros per motorcycle to travel the road. There are places to stop and explore along the road including Edelweiss-Spitze and Nassfeld Speicher. 
Karwendel Nature Park
Touted as one of the most beautiful nature parks located in the Alps, Karwendel is a great place to explore. Guests often describe their experience here as a national park married with a nature reserve. The reserve is large in size at about 543 square kilometers. Within the park, you will find different mountain ranges that stretch across the landscape and you will have an opportunity to not only see wildlife but hike the trails.
Best Time To Visit
Visit the Karwendel Nature Park is sometime between spring and the end of the summer months. Once the winter months start to set in, it is difficult to endure the cold air out near the mountains.
You Should Know
There are protected areas throughout the nature park and guests should pay attention to those areas and abide by the rules.
Virgental Valley in East Tyrol
The Virgental Valley in East Tyrol is a place you do not want to skip while in Austria River. The village is quaint, cute, and has a lot of personality within it. Due to the positioning of the area, between two mountains, the winters are not as harsh because the wind is blocked. Throughout the summer, there are many excursions that take place and you can get a good view of the area and take in the nature around you. Many guests enjoy skiing while here in the winter months.
Best Time To Visit
Visit during the summer months if you want to be able to partake in the excursions and view the landscape up close. If you want to ski, you can visit in the winter months and enjoy yourself.
You Should Know
There is a natural toboggan run that is open to guests. The ski slopes are designed for both beginners, children, and the experienced.
Lechtal Alps
The Lechtal Alps are a popular mountain range located in Austria and are considered part of the Northern Limestone Alps. There are several mountain peaks to admire while here with the tallest one being 9,970 feet. Many guests are drawn to the area to spend time outdoors and to look at the unique rock formations. Throughout the alps, guests can take many different paths including stone walkways, wooden bridges, and more.
Best Time To Visit
The best time is during the months of June to September. This way, you can experience a climate that is suitable for you to enjoy your time outdoors.
You Should Know
The Lechtal High Trail is an adventure for those who like to hike. The Eagle Walk offers a nice challenge for those looking to test their skills.
Filzmoos
Filzmoos is a wonderful place to visit and the area sits at the base of a mountain range, which can be climbed if you dare to try. Within the little area, there are many adventures that await you from hiking to spending the day with the family. One of the more popular attraction areas is the Filzmoos ski area, which is home to some of the best ski trails.
Best Time To Visit
You can visit the area year-round and it will depend on what you want to do while there. If you want to climb the mountain, check out the area, and enjoy some warm weather, then summer would be the best time. If you want to check out the ski slopes and play in the snow, then winter would be the best time.
You Should Know
Multiple ski schools are available on site for beginners. Many winter holidays and festivals take place.
Hochkonig Mountains
Hochkonig is translated to a high king and is considered part of the alps. The mountain itself has an elevation of 2.9 meters and attracts guests from all over. On one side of the mountain, there are some ridges that are perfect for avid climbers to challenge themselves on. The summit of the mountain is covered by a hut and to the north of that summit, there is a glacier that can be observed. For those that are not adept to climbing, there are some walking trails that allow you to explore the area and the views are quite breathtaking.
Best Time To Visit
The best time for visitors is between the months of July and September.
You Should Know
They offer guided hiking trails throughout the week.
Getting There
Austria, nestled in the heart of Europe, is easily accessible for travelers looking to start their river cruise adventure. The country's prime location makes it a hub for several European cruise routes, especially those traveling along the famous
Danube River. Most river cruises in Austria begin in Vienna, the country's capital, which has excellent transport links, including an international airport and major train stations.
Cruise ships typically dock at well-equipped ports that are conveniently located near city centers. In Vienna, the port is just a few kilometers from the city's historic heart, making it easy to start exploring as soon as you arrive. These ports are designed to accommodate a range of river cruise ships, ensuring a smooth start to your Austrian river journey.
The Perfect Time for an Austrian River Cruise
When it comes to planning an Austrian river cruise, choosing the right time is essential to maximize your experience. Austria, with its four distinct seasons, offers varied river cruising experiences throughout the year. Spring, from April to June, is a fantastic time for a river cruise. During these months, the weather is mild and the tourist crowds are smaller, making it an excellent time for sightseeing and enjoying outdoor activities along the river. The landscape also comes alive with blooming flowers, adding to the beauty of your river cruising experience.
Summer, encompassing July and August, is another popular time for river cruising in Austria. The temperatures are warmer, allowing for a pleasant exploration of Austria's picturesque scenery. However, this is also the peak tourist season, so be prepared for larger crowds and potentially higher prices if you choose to cruise during these months.
Fall, between September and October, presents a sweet spot for river cruising in Austria. This season is characterized by fewer tourists and mild weather, along with the opportunity to witness the stunning autumn colors along the riverbanks, enhancing the river cruising experience.
Winter, spanning from November to March, tends to be colder and is considered the off-season for river cruises in Austria. Although cruises are less frequent during this time, those that are available offer a unique charm, particularly around the Christmas season, when Austria's famous markets are in full swing.
For the ideal combination of pleasant weather and fewer tourists, late spring and early fall are the best times for a river cruise in Austria. These seasons offer a perfect balance, allowing you to fully enjoy Austria's natural beauty and cultural offerings without the drawbacks of the high tourist season.
Experience the Flavors of Austria on a River Cruise
Austria's cuisine is a treat for the taste buds, and a river cruise gives you the perfect chance to try it all. Think beyond just Wiener Schnitzel and Strudel; Austrian food is rich in flavors and variety. For starters, you can't miss out on tasting a traditional Wiener Schnitzel, a breaded and fried veal or pork cutlet, usually served with a lemon slice. Another must-try is Tafelspitz, boiled beef in broth, often considered Austria's national dish.
When it comes to sweets, the legendary Apfelstrudel (apple strudel) and Sachertorte, a dense chocolate cake with apricot jam, are must-haves. Don't forget to pair these with a cup of strong Austrian coffee at a local café.
For a real treat, head to a Heuriger in Vienna, which is a tavern serving local wines and rustic food. Also, a visit to a traditional Austrian market like Naschmarkt in Vienna offers a chance to taste various local cheeses, sausages, and pastries.
And for drinks, Austria's wines, particularly whites like Grüner Veltliner, are internationally acclaimed. A cruise along the Danube offers opportunities to visit some of the best wine regions. Lastly, try a local beer in a traditional beer garden or a Stube for an authentic Austrian experience.
Immerse Yourself in Austrian Culture
Austrian culture is a vibrant mix of tradition and modernity, and a river cruise in Austria offers a unique window into this world. Austrians are known for their love of music, with the country being the birthplace of classical legends like Mozart and Strauss. In cities like Vienna and Salzburg, you can often find live classical music performances, whether in grand concert halls or intimate street-side settings.
Traditions also run deep in Austrian culture. Don't be surprised to see locals dressed in Tracht, the traditional clothing, at various festivals or in rural areas. Speaking of festivals, Austria loves its celebrations. From the world-famous Vienna Ball Season, where elegant balls are hosted in the city's palatial venues, to regional festivities like the colorful Salzburg Festival, these events are a great way to experience local customs and hospitality.
Moreover, Austrians are generally polite and value punctuality. Greeting people with a friendly "Grüß Gott" (a formal hello) is common and is a nice way to show respect for local customs. This blend of music, tradition, and warm hospitality makes immersing in Austrian culture an unforgettable part of your river cruise experience.
Why Book a River Cruise to Austria?
Thinking about an Austrian river cruise? It's a brilliant idea! Here's why: River cruises in Austria are not just a relaxing way to travel, but they also offer great value for your money. Imagine unpacking just once and waking up to a new, breathtaking view of the Austrian landscape every day. From the comfort of your cruise ship, you'll glide past stunning vistas that you just can't see from the road.
The real charm of these cruises is how they blend convenience with unique experiences. You get to visit multiple destinations, from vibrant cities like Vienna and Salzburg to picturesque towns like Dürnstein, without the hassle of constantly moving your luggage or figuring out transport. Onboard, you'll enjoy cozy accommodations, delightful dining, and often some local entertainment, too.
But it's not all about what's on the ship. Onshore excursions offer a deeper dive into Austria's rich culture and history. You might find yourself exploring a medieval castle, savoring a wine tasting in a local vineyard, or strolling through historic streets on a guided tour. Some of these experiences, especially in more secluded or exclusive locations, are often available only to cruise passengers.
Ready to Book Your Austria River Cruise?
Ready to explore the heart of Europe in a unique and memorable way? An Austrian river cruise offers just that. Picture yourself gliding along the Danube, surrounded by stunning landscapes, quaint villages, and historic cities. Austria's rich cultural heritage, from the musical streets of Vienna to the baroque architecture of Salzburg, is just waiting to be discovered.
River cruises in Austria combine relaxation with adventure. You get the comfort of your cruise ship and the excitement of exploring new places every day. Plus, there's something incredibly romantic about drifting through beautiful Austrian scenery. Whether you're savoring local delicacies, joining in a traditional festival, or simply soaking in the panoramic views from your ship, this trip promises experiences you'll cherish forever.
So, why wait? Booking your Austrian river cruise is your ticket to an unforgettable journey through history, culture, and natural beauty. Pack your bags, get ready for an adventure, and let Austria's charm sweep you off your feet!
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