Nestled in the heart of Europe, Austria beckons travelers with its breathtaking alpine landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and charming cities steeped in history. From the majestic peaks of the Alps to the grandeur of its imperial palaces, Austria offers a wealth of experiences for visitors to discover and savor. We both did Vienna but picked different additional cities.
Austria’s history begins with the Celts and Romans, leading to its rise as the center of the Holy Roman Empire under the Habsburgs from the 15th to the early 19th century. The empire’s dissolution in 1806 and Austria’s defeat in 1866 shifted its influence, forming Austria-Hungary in 1867. After World War I, the empire collapsed, creating the Republic of Austria. Annexed by Nazi Germany in 1938, Austria regained independence in 1955. Today, Austria is known for its rich cultural heritage, contributions to music and arts, and strong economy.
States
Each state in Austria offers its own unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and outdoor activities, making Austria a diverse and attractive destination for travelers. Here is a list of the states (Bundesländer) in Austria:
- Burgenland: Located in the eastern part of Austria, bordering Hungary. Known for its vineyards, castles, and Lake Neusiedl, the largest lake in Austria.
- Carinthia (Kärnten): Located in the southern part of Austria, known for its alpine scenery, lakes (such as Lake Wörthersee), and ski resorts.
- Lower Austria (Niederösterreich): Located in the northeastern part of Austria, surrounding Vienna. It includes the Wachau Valley, historic monasteries, and wine-growing regions.
- Upper Austria (Oberösterreich): Located in the northern part of Austria, known for its beautiful landscapes, including the Danube River, Lake Traunsee, and the Salzkammergut region.
- Salzburg: Located in central Austria, known for its baroque architecture, Mozart’s birthplace, the Salzburg Festival, and the picturesque Salzkammergut region.
- Styria (Steiermark): Located in southeastern Austria, known for its vineyards, thermal spas, castles, and the city of Graz, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Tyrol (Tirol): Located in western Austria, known for its stunning alpine scenery, ski resorts (such as Kitzbühel and Ischgl), and historic towns like Innsbruck.
- Vorarlberg: Located in the far west of Austria, known for its alpine landscapes, Lake Constance (Bodensee), and ski resorts such as Lech and Zürs.
The Same
Exploring Austria offers a journey through a land steeped in history, music, and culinary delights. Both the DINKs and the Family embarked on unique experiences, starting with Vienna, a city adorned with imperial palaces, grandiose opera houses, and vibrant coffeehouses serving up local delicacies. Immersed in the allure of Austrian cuisine, from savory Wiener Schnitzel to decadent Sachertorte, their journeys continued to reveal contrasting perspectives. While the DINKs ventured to the tranquil lakeside town of Mondsee, the Family chose a family-friendly visit to the enchanting city of Salzburg, Mozart’s birthplace. Each itinerary promises a distinct blend of cultural exploration and gastronomic pleasures, making the question of who did it better a delightful exploration of Austria’s diverse offerings.
Vienna
The capital city of Austria, where history, culture, and elegance converge to create a truly enchanting experience. From grand palaces to iconic landmarks, Vienna offers a wealth of attractions that showcase its rich imperial past and vibrant present. Every street corner tells a story, and every building whispers secrets of a bygone era. Whether you’re drawn to its imperial palaces, majestic cathedrals, or charming parks, Vienna promises an unforgettable journey through history, culture, and timeless elegance.
Schönbrunn Palace: Step into the opulent world of the Habsburg monarchy with a visit to Schönbrunn Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the lavish Baroque interiors, stroll through the meticulously manicured gardens, and marvel at the grandeur of this former imperial residence.
City Hall (Rathaus): Admire the Gothic Revival architecture of Vienna’s City Hall, a striking landmark that dominates the cityscape. Take a guided tour to learn about its history and significance, or visit during one of the many cultural events and festivals held in its grand halls and courtyards.
Austrian Parliament: Delve into the heart of Austrian democracy with a visit to the Austrian Parliament building. Marvel at its neoclassical façade and discover the inner workings of the country’s legislative body through informative guided tours.
Hofburg Palace: Immerse yourself in the splendor of the Habsburg dynasty at Hofburg Palace, the former imperial residence of the Austrian monarchs. Explore its magnificent chambers, including the Imperial Apartments, the Sisi Museum, and the Imperial Silver Collection.
Heroes’ Square (Heldenplatz): Stand in awe at Heroes’ Square, a vast plaza flanked by monumental buildings and statues commemorating Austria’s military history. Take a moment to reflect on the country’s storied past and pay tribute to its heroic figures.
St. Stephen’s Cathedral (Stephansdom): Marvel at the breathtaking beauty of St. Stephen’s Cathedral, Vienna’s most iconic landmark. Admire its stunning Gothic architecture, ascend the South Tower for panoramic views of the city, and explore its richly adorned interior.
Stadtpark: Take a leisurely stroll through Stadtpark, Vienna’s verdant oasis in the heart of the city. Admire the picturesque landscapes, relax by the tranquil ponds, and marvel at the collection of sculptures, including the famous gilded bronze statue of Johann Strauss II.
Viennese coffee: Viennese coffee is not just a beverage; it’s a cultural institution deeply ingrained in the fabric of Austrian society. Renowned for its rich and indulgent flavors, Viennese coffee is a beloved tradition that has been cherished for centuries. Vienna is home to a plethora of historic coffee houses, known locally as “Kaffeehäuser,” where locals and visitors alike gather to enjoy a leisurely cup of coffee and engage in lively conversation. These coffee houses are more than just places to grab a quick caffeine fix; they are social hubs where patrons can linger for hours, savoring the atmosphere and soaking in the ambiance. Be sure to pick up some to take home as well.
Local Cuisine
Austrian cuisine is known for its hearty and flavorful dishes, influenced by its neighboring countries and regions. Here are some iconic Austrian dishes and specialties to try:
- Wiener Schnitzel: Perhaps the most famous Austrian dish, Wiener Schnitzel is a breaded and fried veal or pork cutlet, usually served with lemon and potato salad.
- Apfelstrudel: A traditional Austrian pastry made of thin layers of dough filled with spiced apples, raisins, and cinnamon, often served with vanilla sauce.
- Tafelspitz: Boiled beef traditionally served with horseradish sauce and roasted potatoes. It’s a classic dish enjoyed for its tender meat and savory broth.
- Gulasch: A hearty stew of tender beef, onions, and paprika, typically served with bread dumplings (Semmelknödel) or noodles.
- Käsespätzle: Soft egg noodles mixed with melted cheese (often Emmental or Gruyère) and topped with crispy fried onions. It’s a comforting dish popular in alpine regions.
- Austrian Wines: Austria is also renowned for its wines, particularly Grüner Veltliner (white wine) and Blaufränkisch (red wine), which pair well with many Austrian dishes.
The DINKs
Mondsee
Mondsee, nestled along the picturesque shores of Lake Mondsee in Austria, is a charming town steeped in history and natural beauty. Its most notable landmark is the medieval Mondsee Abbey, a centuries-old cloister church that exudes an aura of serenity and grace. This historic abbey holds special significance as the site of the famous wedding scene in the beloved film “The Sound of Music,” adding to its allure and charm. With its blend of historical landmarks, natural beauty, and cinematic connections, Mondsee offers a truly enchanting destination for travelers seeking a taste of Austria’s cultural heritage and scenic splendor.
- The abbey’s cloister church, in particular, captivates with its grandeur and historical significance, offering a glimpse into the region’s medieval past. For fans of “The Sound of Music,” Mondsee holds a special allure, offering the opportunity to step into the footsteps of the film’s beloved characters and relive the magic of Maria and Captain von Trapp’s wedding ceremony. The abbey’s picturesque setting provides the perfect backdrop for capturing memorable photos and experiencing a touch of cinematic history.
- Mondseer cheese is a traditional Austrian cheese that originates from the Mondsee region near Salzburg. This semi-hard cheese is made from cow’s milk and has a smooth, creamy texture with a slightly tangy flavor. It is typically aged for a few months, during which time it develops its distinct taste and aroma. Due to its popularity and unique flavor profile, Mondseer cheese is widely available in markets and cheese shops throughout Austria and can also be found in specialty cheese stores around the world. We picked some up at a local market. Fair warning, it’s a smelly cheese.
The Family
Salzburg
Mozart’s Birthplace Step into the charming streets of Salzburg, the picturesque city where Mozart was born and raised. Wander through the narrow lanes of the UNESCO-listed Old Town, visit the iconic Hohensalzburg Fortress for panoramic views of the city, and pay homage to the musical genius at Mozart’s Birthplace and Residence. Be sure to take a stroll through the Mirabell Gardens, immortalized in the film “The Sound of Music,” and enjoy a performance at the renowned Salzburg Festival if you’re visiting in the summer.
We chose to visit Salzburg on a day trip from Munich since we had a rental car. Exploring Salzburg on a “Sound of Music” bike tour offered us a unique way to experience the iconic filming locations and picturesque landscapes of the beloved movie. As you pedal through the enchanting streets and countryside, you’ll follow in the footsteps of the von Trapp family.
The tour began in the heart of Salzburg, where we got our bicycles and met our guide. Our favorite highlights include: stops at Mirabell Gardens, where “Do-Re-Mi” was filmed, and Leopoldskron Palace, the backdrop for the von Trapp family home. We also enjoyed passing through charming villages, lush meadows, and rolling hills, reminiscent of the movie’s opening sequence. Our guide was knowledgeable and shared behind-the-scenes stories and trivia, offering insights into the movie’s production and the region’s history. They encouraged us to relive our favorite moments from “The Sound of Music,” singing along to beloved songs and capturing memorable photos against Salzburg’s scenic beauty. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of the movie or simply seeking a fun and active way to explore Salzburg, a “Sound of Music” bike tour promises an unforgettable journey through this iconic film’s sights and sounds.
Summary
In comparing their Austrian adventures, both the DINKs and the Family discovered the essence of Austria through Vienna’s splendor and its culinary treasures. The DINKs’ detour to Mondsee added a serene lakeside retreat to their journey, while the Family’s decision to introduce their children to Salzburg provided a cultural and historical immersion. Each experience, whether savoring traditional dishes or marveling at architectural marvels, resonated differently with each traveler’s preferences and priorities. Ultimately, the Family’s inclusive journey to Salzburg, blending educational experiences with picturesque landscapes, may have provided a more enriching experience for all ages. However, both journeys underscored Austria’s timeless charm and left indelible memories of its captivating culture and hospitality.
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