Since then the city has been able to successfully detach itself from the dark memories that the name of Hitler evokes and from the reputation of being near the last concentration camp from the infamous historical epoch. However, the cultural epicenter status is no longer a dream. A great place to visit at any time, a trip to Linz this year will be especially rewarding because it has been chosen to be Europe’s cultural host. Linz- the capital of European cultural tourism sitting pretty on the banks of the Danube is a flourishing city which has achieved a unique and rare blend of consciously preserved nature, environment conscious, yet highly successful industrial belts and a thriving cultural scene and as the Capital of Culture 2009 it will showcase all of this. An almost utopic modern urban city it has something for every visitor.

Rarely will the lover of history and culture find a more diverse cultural scene in one city. Interactive art, fine arts, contemporary art, media art, music and theater – every tourist can choose from the riches according to his taste and mood.

Linz Museums

The Lentos Art Museum in Linz opened in May 2003 and put Linz on the map as far as international art museums go. In addition to being the most important museum of modern art in Austria, this long building stretching to a hundred and thirty meters right on the Danube is an architectural marvel too. The transparent glass ceiling not only makes the inside of the museum look incredibly attractive during daytime, it is a most stunning sight at night when it is brilliantly lit. Architecturally a very successful blending of the modern within the old and of extreme functionality within beauty, the OK Offenes Kulturhaus Oberösterreich is an extremely important museum of contemporary art. Its website claims that it is “an experimental laboratory for exploring art.” Visitors can soak in this unique atmosphere which provides mostly young artists with not only a platform to present their art but a workshop-laboratory wherein to develop their art. Several important exhibitions run all through the year.

Cultural, natural and art history is preserved in the Oberösterreichische Landesmuseum. This museum is Austria’s first official institution created to promote contemporary art. Comprising of several important buildings like the Castle Museum and the Biology Center in Linz, the Oberösterreichische Landesmuseumis spread through the city. For the honest art enthusiasts there are specialized tours in which experts and museum curators guide the visitor through the most important exhibits and exhibitions as also tours that allow conversations with the artists. For the more laid back tourist there are special family afternoons.

The Ars Electronica is a museum of interactive art that definitely must not be missed. It focuses on the ever fluid relationship between art, technology and society. Don’t miss the important award ceremony, the Prix Ars Electronica to be held in September this year.

Music and drama in Linz

As the birthplace of Anton Bruckner does it come as any surprise that Linz’s most famous concert hall is called the Brucknerhaus? The Brucknerhaus opened its doors more than three decades ago and since then it has held about two hundred events every year with almost a hundred and eighty thousand visitors regularly walking in to listen to some of the greatest composers. The Bruckner orchestra is famous throughout the world. Depending on the time of your visit don’t forget to experience one of the several concert events held here. Several trendy theaters dot the streets the most famous of which is the Landestheater once much visited by Hitler and friends, mainly to listen to Wagner. Today it holds regular events in all genres including the opera.

Annual Events in Linz

The world’s largest media art festival is held here in Linz every September. Since 1979 Ars Electronica has attracted thousands of visitors to Linz. In 2009 it will be held from the third of September to the eighth. From a mere twenty participants in its first year, last year the event attracted scientists and artists from twenty five countries with the numbers running up to more than four hundred. The digital revolution truly comes into its own here. During Pflasterspektakel the whole city center is converted into a carnival of sorts with music, theater, pantomime, clowns and what not ensuring that no tourist sits in their hotel rooms during those three days in July.

The Brucknerfest promises to be especially grand with Dennis Russel Davies performing Hayden’s “The Creation” and performances by Zubin Mehta and the Budapest Philharmonic Orchestra. The Trio of concerts called Klangwolken combines music and laser and fireworks show, an especially for children show and a classical music show. This Linz Cloud of Sound festival brings alight the sky atop and the Danube underneath. Danube Park comes alive touching every one of the human senses.

In 2009 a trip to Linz will be unforgettable, guaranteed! Give this Capital of Culture a chance to host you and to show you why it has earned this enviable title.

Photo of Ars ElectronicaCenter and Lentos Art Museum, Linz, Austria, by x-hibit

Relax in Salzburg at the Hotel Vogelweiderhof

Book a “Shaolin Package” at the lovely Hotel Vogelweiderhof in Salzburg for 210 euros per night. Special Offer including stay in a double room, breakfast, lunch, WOK dinner and 1 Shaolin treatment.

Visit Vienna and stay at the Hotel Am Brillantengrund

Book a 4-night stay at the 3-star Am Brillantengrund Hotel in Vienna city center and get a special price: Double room for 77 euros per night.

More Special Rates on Austria Hotels

Double room at the 4-star Hotel Mercure in Vienna for 139 euros per night (prepaid, not refundable).

Double Room at the 4-star Goldener Alder Hotel in Innsbruck for 119 euros per night (prepaid, not refundable).

Double Room at the 4-star AktivHotel Veronika in Seefeld mountain resort, Tyrol, for 140 euros per night (prepaid, not refundable).

When you are contemplating a vacation in Austria for the whole family, the easiest way to describe what you’ll encounter is that the country is like a big dessert. The landscape with the snow covered peaks looks like a sundae with plenty of whipped cream topping. The tri-level castles that have long signified the rise and fall of numerous empires are akin to sponge cakes that rise in your oven. It’s a veritable baked pastry that dates back to the time of the Roman Empire.Where family-friendly places in Austria are concerned, it’s a matter or having so many options that deciding on what you should do next could be a mite challenging. During the Renaissance Period, Austria was recognized for putting forth some the best classical music composers. In 2006, city of Vienna celebrated the 250th anniversary of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart as well as the birth of one of the country’s most well-known residents.

The choices for adventure and a family outing in Austria are too numerous to list here. However, the following 5 are the ones you should include in your vacation plans if you want your children to enjoy that adventure as well.

Boat ride on the Danube

Always an enjoyable excursion worth encountering whenever you visit Austria. Wachau Valley is by far the most beautiful part of the cruise and is located between Krems and Melk. You’ll be intrigued as you pass by all the abbeys and castles along the river, especially Durnstein, the town where they held Richard the Lionhearted prisoner during the Anglo-Saxon and Norman conflict of the 11th century. If floating the river via boat is not your cup of tea, you can even enjoy this via the bike path that has been constructed along the river’s edge.

Salt mines

Mined in Austria for thousands of years, salt has been a valuable part of the area’s economy. The salt mines today are beautifully restored and have tours for 4-year olds and up.

Salzwelten Altaussee: You’ll be amazed as you stand inside Sandling Mountain, made of salt and the hiding place of valuable art that the Nazi’s pillaged during WWII. The train ride winds through the mountain, affording you a glimpse of the mountain’s rock layers and rock salt formations.

Salzwelten Hallstatt: The world’s oldest, active salt mine (dates back 7,000 years) that is still going strong. You’ll be amazed by the “Man in Salt”, which was discovered in 1734. He’s still in his clothes, carrying his tools, and perfectly preserved.

Salzwelten Salzburg: The “salt castle” is a must see for families with children. Float on a wooden raft on the salt lake underground, slide down an authentic miner’s slide, ride in a mine car, and visit a Celtic settlement to experience how the miners lived and worked in centuries passed.

Photo of street sign in Alberg, Austria by fffriendly

Went to Greece last year but got absolutely fed up with the sheer number of raucous offspring hopping all over the place, urinating in the swimming pool and making a tower out of deck chairs?

Try some of these destinations to go to if you just can’t stand noisy, whiny children.

1. Monte Carlo

The Principality of Monaco is a City State in the south of France which is inhabited primarily by some of the world’s richest people. It has become famous for its opulence and high prices. Millionaires come here in their yachts and watch the Grand Prix whilst curtained fences prevent the rest of the masses from seeing the track without paying. British writer and journalist Jeremy Clarkson recalls in a book of his that “two small bottles of Heineken in a nightclub” cost him over 200 Euros. Exaggeration or not, Monaco features the most exclusive hotels, most expensive nightclubs, the best beachfront, and the highest police-to-citizen ratio in the world. You’re unlikely to find a single kid, and if you do he’s probably cooped up in the Hotel Suite enjoying his pearls dissolved in marshmallows.

2. Corsica

The island of Corsica off the Coast of France is a sizeable chunk of land, but for some reason it’s never heard of nowadays, despite being known as “the island of beauty“, featuring mountains, and relatively pristine beach front. Camping is a preferred way of staying on the island, with Scuba Diving, Sailing and Hiking being the prime attractions. Rocky cliffs and small towns precariously perched on top of rock are what make it unique, not to mention the Fusion of Italian and French culture only found elsewhere in Switzerland.

3. Tirol, Austria

In the winter, the Tirol region is a fantastic getaway spot for skiers and other people who find fun in possible impalement or burial by avalanche. In summer, it’s a twee little place for tourists with incredibly cheap room rates. Other than the very high cost of food and the humidity in summer, pretty good deals can be had here, and as it’s so insipid for young children who tend not to find enjoyment in anything that doesn’t involve sand and seawater.

4. Channel Islands

Don’t run away yet! The Channel Islands are tiny dependencies of the British Crown, and still retain a certain amount of sovereignty. There isn’t really a whole lot to see, or do, apart from enjoy VAT-free drinks at the numerous pubs there. But as well as having very few children, the Channel Islands hold some well-kept secrets. Did you know for instance that was the Channel Island of Sark was the last European territory to abolish feudalism, in 2008!

Enjoy your (child-free) travels!

Photo of pebble beach in Bonifacio, Corsica by Zigar 

Despite being one of the more targeted skiing destinations, as the Tyrolian Alps are loaded with all types of skiing trails for the aficionado. It is considered ideal skiing for both beginners and intermediate skiers with numerous resorts being within an hours drive from Innsbruck (based on driving conditions). Despite the fact that the city is well recognized for the skiing industry, there are numerous nightlife and shopping venues available. And don’t forget about the cuisine. Traditionally the place is famous for unique savories which are popular with the tourists even today.

For most of us, the best part about international travel is sampling all the cuisine that is available. You will always find the standard fast food and national chains but what would be the point in that when you have all the wonderful locally owned establishments at your fingertips. Here is a list of some of the more popular and recommended cafes and restaurants in and around the city of Innsbruck.

1. Goldener Adler Restaurant

Local cuisine and fine dining at its best. It is considered one of Innsbruck’s finest hot spots and is named after the renowned Hotel Goldener Adler. Delicious chicken and pork entrees are the norm within a traditional Austrian atmosphere and an excellent service staff as well.

2. Weisses Rössl

A must-visit first-class dining experience at the very least. This is international and traditional dining that is second to none anywhere in the city. Both the hash and the veal cutlets are their specialty.

3. Sweet Basil

Definitely the #1 Italian cuisine in Innsbruck. The risotto is regarded as some of the best you will find outside of Italy, and along with the service and the ambiance, this is definitely top-notch at the very least.

4. Café Katzung

The perfect setting for a summer break. This café features an outdoor terrace as well as its renowned selection of coffees and desserts. This is truly one of the more ideal spots in the city for a break after sightseeing.

5. Griechisches Kulturinstitut Café Elektra

This is an internet café and features some of the best Greek treats you will find anywhere in Western Europe. The cheery ambiance and an outdoor garden dining setting make this the ideal spot for enjoying some true Mediterranean cuisine while admiring local artists that are displaying their work.

Photo of the Goldener Adler Restaurant courtesy of Hotel Goldener Adler. 

It is rich in culture and history and is a must-see destination when traveling in these regions. Meandering through a spectacular landscape filled with historical architecture and natural beauty, you will encounter such memorable attractions such as the renowned Neuschwanstein Castle along this route.

The portion of the Romantic Road that lies within Austria’s boundaries travels between two major tourist destinations – Salzburg and Vienna – including all the culture and scenery that you encounter along your adventure. As you journey down this historic route, you will be able to experience castles, lakes, monasteries, museums, palaces, and the phenomenal landscapes that can only be experienced in Austria and Germany.

There are three methods of transportation that you can avail yourself of in order to travel along this storied route. You can travel by auto whether in a rented car or by hiring a private driver, you can make reservations on one of the many bus tour lines (such as Europabus), and you can even bike along the route as well. One way or the other, this is a part of vacationing in Austria (or Germany) that you won’t want to miss.

The Austrian portion of the Romantic Road enables you to experience numerous culinary and cultural pleasures along the route between Salzburg and Vienna. Decelerated traveling is the norm as you venture through some of the most picturesque countryside in all of Austria. There are nearly 20 historical villages along the route. Combine this with all of the culinary and cultural aspects and you have a vacation that you will never forget.

Here is a brief list of some of these attractions to encounter along the way based on the cities that they are in or close to. You will also discover that there are signposts along the entire route that will alert you to the numerous points of interest while traveling.

Top 3 sights in Salzburg

• Hellbrunn Palace and Trick Fountains
• Hohensalzburg Fortress – The Landmark
• Mozart’s Birthplace

Top 3 sights in Mondsee

• St. Michael’s Basilica
• MondSeeLand Museums – includes the Austrian Lake Dwelling Museum, the Mondseer Rauchhaus Outdoor Museum, and the Irrsee Heritage Museum
• Salzkammergut Local Train Museum

Top 3 sights in Bad Ischl

• Emperor’s Villa
• Lehar Villa
• Municipal Museum of Bad Ischl

Top 3 sights in Hallstatt

• Bone House & Church
• Hallstatt Museum
• Salt Worlds

Top 3 sights in Obertraun

• Dachstein Giant Ice Cave
• Koppenbrüller Cave
• Mammoth Cave

Enjoy the pristine beauty of tiny townships reverberating with the music of Mozart, lush landscapes in the backdrop of the massive snow capped Alps.

Photo of Obertraun by thisisbossi

Where the nightlife is concerned, there are pubs and discos to avail you of unending entertainment while staying in the village, and you will quickly discover that these are some of the most frequented night-spots in the Tyrol. You’ll also discover that getting along with your fellow skiers is a necessity as you are bound to be in close proximity to them no matter which establishment you visit. Here is a brief list of some of the best pubs and discos in St. Anton.

1. Krazy Kanguruh

Originally constructed as a horse stable, this bar/restaurant is a little difficult to get to and is out of the village area. You can ski there from the upper slopes, you can walk up the steep incline (not recommended), or you can drive there by going through the suburb of Moos on a narrow, winding road.

2. Platz’l Bar

Situated next to the Hotel Alte Post in the heart of the village,  this rustic hangout with great ambiance, and features a pianist that affords the tourist some very soothing music as well as a more sophisticated atmosphere in the early part of the evening. Later on, recorded music plays for those who want to dance.

3. Rodelhütte

Rodelhütte only open during the winter months (December through April), this après-ski hangout always provides the visitor with warmth courtesy of its blazing fire. Access is a bit challenging as the only way you can reach this cozy little haunt is via a steep, 20-minute walk from the village of St. Anton, but it is well worth the effort. Here you are offered an opportunity to enjoy a drink or two while visiting with your fellow skiers as well as some of the locals.

Chill out skiing and enjoy the fascinating nightlife in the pristine St Anton am Arlberg.

Photo of sunset in St Anton am Arlberg, Austria, by Chris Eden

Graz is a perfect blend of historical architecture and modern city life and has developed by virtue of its location at a fording point of the Mur. Through its storied history, the Bavarians, Romans, and Slavs have all taken a part in the development of the city.

Graz is the perfect base for venturing out on day trips into the picturesque countryside here during the warmer season, making it the perfect place to find lodging. There is an abundance of attractions and events to experience while you are here. For instance, you can explore the Schlossberg castle, go hiking, take a hot-air balloon ride, or visit any one of a number of museums.

If your preference is a vacation in the fall, you should attend the Styrian Autumn Festival called “Steierischer Herbst”. Here you can see an abundance of contemporary art, read some great literature, or enjoy listening to all kinds of music. The Arts Festival is renowned for being an avant-garde affair, featuring a wide array of entertainment venues from jazz to mime.

Whether it is the local attractions or entertaining events that you are longing for, you will be sure to get your fill while visiting the city. The following is a list of some of the more commonly recommended and visited sites in Graz.

• Island in the Mur

Island in the Mur is a glass and metal building that features an amphitheater and playground, as well as the Insel, a bar/cafe. Quoting Vito Acconci, the Brooklyn-based architect responsible for its creation and design, the Island in the Mur “takes the city into the river and the river into the city.”

• The Spring Festival

Hosted by the city of Graz every May, the Spring Festival  is an annual entertainment event featuring a fascinating array of art and music from the electronic genre. The city is literally metamorphosed into a huge party rocking to the different beats that the DJ’s and visual artists create.

• Gamlitzer Weinstube

Gamlitzer Weinstube is the most visible wine tavern in Graz. Built over 300 years ago, it features an extensive menu that was designed to accompany the wine list and is extremely affordable with meals and a glass of wine averaging about €8 or $10 USD.

•  Shopping at Brühl and Söhne

If it’s fashion, high-quality, and the latest fads or styles that you’re searching for, Brühl and Söhne is definitely the place for you to venture into. They carry a wide array of clothing for men, women, and children, but be aware. Their high-quality apparel is matched by equally high prices.

Hope fully these sightseeing delights will keep you entertained and busy in Graz. Enjoy the exciting nightlife, panoramic locations and scenic beauty here.

Photo of Island in the Mur in Graz, Austria, by loloieg

If there’s one thing that Hollywood has taught us in the 100 years, it’s that glamorous destinations where you go to be seen are also the sort of places a top secret agent like Bond also visits incognito. However, that’s not the sort of case any more with the latest movie which attempts to jump off the bondwagon (see what I did there) in favour of injecting some realism into the franchise.

Which could be described as being like trying to mix Greek mythology with brushing your teeth – some would argue that the combination doesn’t make for a happy marriage – still, it’s Bond, isn’t it?

So in chronological order, here are some of the locations that fanatics of Ian Fleming’s finest should be checking out:

• Lake Garda, Italy

Probably one of the most beautiful lakes in the world, if not the most beautiful lake in the world.

Has been a top holiday destination for years. What makes Lake Garda so awesome is the sheer size of it. It’s the largest lake in Italy, and one of the largest in southern Europe.

Around it is situated numerous towns and like, featuring lovely old architecture and luxurious lakeside hotels. Well worth a visit, especially now Bond’s given it the unofficial sniff of approval.

• Siena, Italy

Soon after the lake scene comes Siena, a lovely city with typically sublime Italian architecture.

Particularly worthy of note is (of course) the Cathedral of Siena, which practically oozes Gothicism. Something well worth seeing because of being rather strange is the Palazzo Pubblico, a palatial town hall with a brick tower and frescos in nearly every room. You just can’t beat Europe for things like this.

• Lake Constance, Austria

The new Bond hangs around an awful lot of lakes, doesn’t he?

Maybe Quantum like the views while conducting their nefarious schemes – who knows?

What we do know is that Lake Constance is an entirely different kind of lake – it’s much smaller and attracts far fewer tourists – which is either a very good thing or a very bad thing depending on your state of mind. (Here is the where Quantum get their Solace, get it?)

Lake Constance is known for being in a very weird location, bordering Germany, Switzerland and Austria at the same time – not bad for a lake that’s half the size of Garda.

• Kazan, Russia

Situated in European Russia, Kazan is a major hub for commerce, culture and industry in Russia. What makes it particularly interesting is that it’s home of the Tatar Culture, a rather fascinating ethnic Islamic group who reside well, all over Eurasia really. Kazan itself features the Kazan Kremlin, a complete white, rather impressive building, constructed at the command of Ivan the Terrible, one of history’s most diabolical autocrats. Additionally, there is the Qolsharif Mosque

which can only be described as rather cool.

Keep Travelling!

Photo of Lake Garda at sunset originally posted by motumboe

On its north end is the Karwendel range with Nordkette raising its jagged head. Its south is ringed in by the Saile and Serles group of mountains. The Patscherkofel stands with its rounded summit on the south eastern end. The city sits on the bank of the river Inn and ‘Bruck’ means bridge. So the city is, in effect, the bridge over river Inn. Innsbruck’s largest income comes from tourism and so the city authorities take special care to ensure a special experience for all its tourists. The capital of the province of Tirol Innsbruck is an important city of the federal district. As a year round holiday destination Innsbruck has something to offer every tourist irrespective of the time of year.

Winter tourism in Innsbruck

Innsbruck is one of the few ski resort cities in the world that offers a snow guarantee wherein if it doesn’t snow there during your winter trip they will take you to a place with plenty of snow. And why is it so easy to make that guarantee? That is because Innsbruck almost never spends a winter day starving for snow. Is it then any surprise that twice it has played host to the winter Olympics! The Innsbruck area offers almost 200  trails. Axamer Lizium and Glungerez together form the ‘white roof’ where the majority of the events during both the 1964 and 1976 Olympics were held. This natural ski area boasts of a permanent training run and several rails and jumps, enough to satisfy the most snow hungry tourist.Patscherkofel, Muttereralm and Nordpark are other very popular ski resorts around Innsbruck. Easy transportation facilities and all in one ski passes make all the ski resorts in the vicinity easily accessible. For those whose enthusiasm for snow sports is more in the capacity of a viewer than a participant there is the Air and Style competition that is held in early December at the Olympic Ski Jump Stadium. In March the top snow boarders in the world participate in the Innsbruck Extreme, a contest that draws huge crowds every year.

Summer Tourism in Innsbruck

Missing winter at Innsbruck does not mean you have to miss skiing. The Stubai Glacier, about forty kilometers from Innsbruck offers an year-round skiing opportunity. As the snow melts off the mountains the lush greenness of the oak and maples envelop the slopes and transform ski slopes into wonderful hiking tracks. The region offers ample opportunities for paragliding and rafting too.Then there are the countless summer festivals. The International Folk Festival held in the second half of July has performers putting up authentic dance and music acts. From June to August the Spanish Hall of the Ambras Castle holds a concert every Tuesday. In late April there is the week long International Dance Theater Festival. Also known as the ‘Organ Town’ Innsbruck holds concerts from May to September every year to showcase the two most interesting organs that the town possesses. One is the Ebert organ that dates back to 1558 and the other, located in the Silver Chapel, is the Italian Renaissance organ. The International Organ Competition brings the organ festival to a grand close. The seasonal flowers are in full bloom during the summer at the University Botanical Gardens.

Year round attractions

There is the special summer and probably the even more special winter. Then there are attractions that make the city worth a visit irrespective of the weather. You can catch a breathtaking view of the city and its surrounding mountains from the top of the fourteenth century Stadtturm, also known as the Town Tower. Above the ski jump stadium is the Bergisel Tower which offers an unrestrictive panorama of the Alps. The Golden Roof or the Goldenes Dachl is a stunning sight. Built to celebrate the marriage of Maximillian I, it is so named because of the more than two thousand five hundred gilded copper tiles that shimmer on top of a Gothic Oriel window. Situated in the old part of the town the Golden Roof is surrounded by quaint old building with the Nordkette Mountains making for a striking backdrop.The Schloss Ambras is a tenth century castle built by Archduke Ferdinand II. A must visit is The Chamber of Art and Curiosities located in the castle. Everything from precious objects to toys and scientific items is on display here. The Upper Castle houses the ‘Hasburg Portrait Gallery’ with about three hundred portraits to view. The Cathedral of St James with its sumptuous Baroque interiors and its Madonna, painted high above the altar by Lukas Cranach the elder is definitely worth a visit. Hungerburg is a small town on the outskirts of Innsbruck from where you can take a cable car trip up the Alps. The Swarovski Crystal World is a multimedia facility that is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the area. The Grassmayr Bell Museum, that showcases the world famous Grassmayr bells, the Tyrolean Folk Art Museum, with everything from classic painting to Tyrolean weapons as exhibits, and Tyrolean Provincial Museum, dedicated to history round up the list of famous museums in the area.Add to all these famous restaurants, and the Casino Innsbruck and you will know why the city has earned the reputation of being Innsbruck-the year round holiday destination.Photo of Innsbruck houses originally posted by James Cridland

Traveling by train in Austria is the best way to see the country if you do not have a car, but it is also quite expensive. The bus services tend to be slower, much less comfortable and not much cheaper. A complicated system of rail passes operates throughout the country which can greatly reduce the amount spent on train tickets and it operates in both national and regional varieties. It is worth investigating at the station or tourist information office for which pass suites your particular needs.

It is also worth noting that if you are making a long journey but breaking it into stages it is cheaper to buy one ticket since this will work out cheaper than buying several tickets for short journeys. You can simply jump off the train wherever you want and continue when you are ready. However, be sure to have the ticket stamped for the section of the journey only.

As with most countries, if you are traveling a long distance it is worth checking that you are on an express train because a stopping train will make the journey take twice as long as it otherwise would. This can be great for seeing the scenery in the Alps but sheer hell if you just want to get to your destination.

Trains with a letter C in the designation are the express trains. The C stands for city and is usually accompanied by an I for intercity, S for supercity or E for Eurocity. Trains with other letter designations will be moderately fast trains but with several stops, trains with no letter designation will stop anywhere and everywhere.

In Austria the rail network is divided into state owned and operated lines and private lines. Private lines are the small minority, usually branch lines such as the Jenback to Mayrhofen line. Usually this would make little or no difference to travelers but private lines often do not accept certain rail cards or passes. Check at the station to find out if your pass is valid for branch line routes.

For those inter-railing through Europe, Austria has very good connections with its neighbors. Prague can be reached either directly from Vienna or via Brno on a line that also runs to Warsaw. There are numerous lines into Germany, the fastest connection being the hourly Munich to Salzburg express. Travelers heading into the Balkans also have numerous choices southwards into Slovenia or through Italy.

Travelers looking for the more obscure European locations can also take a trip into Lichtenstein on the line running from Feldkirch to Zurich.

Photo of Austrian train at Graz train station originally posted by theowl84

• The Austrian Lake District

Stretching from Salzburg to the Datchstein mountain range, the Austrian Lake District is highly recommended for it mountain peaks and endless lowlands. This part of Austria is actually known as the ‘Salzkammergut‘, which translated means, the ‘Treasure Trove of Salt.” The history of Austrian is enriched with culture and architecture that will make your trip to Austria complete. Finding the time away from your hikes to take in famous cultural activities such the Summer Opera season in Bad Ischl will on further enhance your stay in the fabulous country.

• Mondsee, Attersee and Traunsee

Other Austrian areas to be explored on foot include Lakes Mondsee, Attersee and Traunsee. Each day you plan your self-tour hike you can incorporate a different aspect of Austrian nature and life in your own leisure. Planning a hike in the south of Austria will take you to the breathtaking landscape as it spans into the mountains views of Zwolferhorn (1521m) and Schafberg (1782m). Austria’s Dachstein Alps with its impressive peaks will make for a hike with a challenge. This will not be a hike for the faint heart so fitness of some sort is advisable.

• Hother Dachstein

Hoher Dachstein, another region to explored with its high mountain passes and alpine meadows the stunning views you will behold go on and on and on. If your hike takes you to the pinnacles of Hoher Dachstein you will be encircled by the walls of the Gosaukamm Mountains. Along this route do not be surprised if you run into a cave or two to explore as well. As some hiking locations involve steep or rugged areas or terrain wearing the proper footwear will make your journey a comfortable one. For the days when you actually want to sightsee with your feet up why not try the cable car that will take you to the several enormous caves. It is also very useful to gain access to high altitude walks you might want to attempt.

Deciding on a schedule for your hiking days out will help you to determine your travel program and plan hotel stays that will fit into agenda to help you get the most out of this kind of holiday adventure.

Picture of Lake Spullersee, Austria originally posted by nr1

Declared world heritage site by UNESCO in 1996, the palace and gardens of Schönbrunn are a must-see for lovers of princely Baroque and Gesamtkunstwerk – a German word for a unified work of art. The impressive palace was the residence of the Habsburg emperors from the 18th century to 1918. Emperor Franz Josef I, known in popular culture films and books as the husband of Sissi, lived most of his life here. The Schönbrunn gardens are also home to the world’s first zoo, dating back to 1752. The palace offers several fun tours, including an Imperial Tour, a Grand Tour and a Children’s Tour, that can be booked online.

2. The Semmering Railway

Built between 1848 and 1854, the Semmering Railway runs 41 km (25 miles) between Gloggnitz (Lower Austria) and Semmering (Styria) in a spectacular high mountain landscape. A must for railway enthusiasts, this great work of civil engineering and a masterpiece in the combination of technology and nature is internationally recognised as the first true mountain railway. With its 100 stone bridges, 11 iron bridges, 16 viaducts and 14 tunnels, it is the true prototype of mountain railway lines and is still in use today. You can ride this piece of train track on the train from Vienna to Graz (in itself a world heritage site since 1999). Sit on the left, for the best views. On the way back from Graz to Vienna, sit on the right.

3. Hallstatt-Dachstein Salzkammergut

This great alpine region in Upper Austria, Styria and Salzburg is of extraordinary natural beauty. As far back as the 2nd millennium BC, salt deposits were exploited here, hence the region’s name Salzkammergut, which translates to Chamber of Salt Estate. A must-see for nature and architecture lovers. Popular towns in the Salzkammergut include Hallstatt, Altmünster, Fuschl am See, Ebenau, Traunkirchen and Obertraun. The region is also known for its culinary delicacies, including a kind of sugared pancake with raisins called Kaiserschmarrn, award-winning wines and famous fish restaurants.

4. Historic Center of Salzburg

The Old Town of Salzburg is a splendid example of baroque architecture and in 1996 it was deservedly added to Unesco’s list of world heritage sites. It is one of the best preserved city centers in Austria and presents a dramatic Alpine setting. Salzburg has of course been a long time favorite for music lovers as well. Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was born here, and his birth house and residence are now open to the public. Most of the scenes from the film The Sound of Music starring Julie Andrews were filmed here. In July and August Salzburg becomes the setting for the famous Salzburg Festival, a summer opera event that attracts hundreds of thousands of international visitors each year.

Photo of Schönbrunn Gardens originally posted by 29cm

The Sound of Music sites

The Sound of Music was famously filmed in Salzburg in 1965 and has drawn tourists to the area ever since. Fans of the musical will want to hit up some of the many sights that served as a backdrop to the movie.

Visit the beautiful Mirabell Gardens where Maria and the Von Trap children sang ‘Do-Re-Mi,’ or go to the famous Sound of Music Pavilion where ‘I am 16 going on 17’ was sang. Various Sound of Music tours are offered but may leave you pinched for time later in the day.

The Old Town

Take a taxi to the Old Town of Salzburg where you can lunch in a café before shopping in the winding streets. Music and history enthusiasts alike enjoy touring the birthplace and residence of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart.

Pick up some of the popular candy called Mozart-kugel to take home as souvenirs. For more history, stroll through the Salzburg Cathedral Hohensalzburg and the Fortress , known as one of the largest castles in Europe. Here you can walk along the water and view the beautiful vistas that the city has to offer.

The Augustiner Biergarten

No matter the season, the Augustiner is the best place to relax after a long day of touring the city. The abbey was founded in the early 1600’s by Augustinian hermits and is now popular for its beer that is made on the premises.

Come here with a group of friends, grab a seat at a table and make friend with whomever you wind up sitting next to. Instead of ordering a beer, purchase a token that allows you to grab a stein of your size. Then rinse the stein at a fountain and get in line for you drink. Bringing your own food is allowed, so plan on making this your dinner stop too. Pick up anything from cheese and crackers to a pizza and make a picnic of it.

One tip: always leave change with the restroom maid, no matter how many times you go in and no matter how much money you’ve already left her…she’s EXTREMELY irritable!

Photo originally posted by .liquid.lblue.ocean