Austria
ACTIVITIESBeachesAlthough Austria has no access to the sea, it has more than 300 lakes and thus, many beaches. However, not all of them are accessible for public use. In many private beaches an admission fee is charged. The most famous Austrian lakes are Lake Constance (Bodensee) shared with Germany and Switzerland, Lake Finkenstein (Faakersee) in Carinthia, and Lake Neusiedl (Neusiedlersee) – an UNESCO World Heritage Site on the Austrian-Hungarian border.SightseeingAustria is a country of music, culture, astonishing landscapes and magnificent mountains. Thus, there is plenty to see. Austrian cities are famous for many historical sites, museums and galleries. The recommended places include two residences of the Habsburg dynasty in Vienna: the Schönbrunn Palace and the Hofburg Imperial Palace, and the monumental Salzburg’s Cathedral where Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was baptised. Besides the numerous historical buildings, tourists should also explore the natural beauty of the country, for example, by visiting the Hohe Tauern National Park or the famous Eisriesenwelt – a limestone ice cave, both in Salzburg County. In fact, Austria can boast an abundance of tourist attractions. Those mentioned above are only a few out of hundreds.HikingThanks to the Austria’s mountainous terrain, hiking is one of the most popular activities. There is plenty of hiking routes for visitors who wish to discover the magnificent mountain scenery. Austria offers various routes for all levels of hikers.SkiingSkiing (together with hiking) is one of the most popular activities in Austria. The country is as famous for the perfect skiing conditions as for the Mozart. People from all European countries come here to fulfill their skiing desires. Excellent Austrian ski resorts offer everything that ski enthusiasts may expect. However, Austria is a country of all winter sports, not only downhill skiing but also snowboarding, Nordic skiing, cross-country skiing (XC skiing) and others.Water sportsAs mentioned above, Austria has no access to the sea. It doesn’t mean, however, that water sports are not an option. Numerous crystal clear lakes and rivers can be a great destination for the enthusiasts of windsurfing, sailing, rafting, canoeing, inner tubing and diving.FishingAustria can offer excellent fishing opportunities. However, fishing in Austria requires a fishing license and the fishing permission from the owner of the reservoir or river. Tourists can purchase a Fishing Card online from the National Forest Administration at www.bundesforste.at.Rock climbingThe Austrian Alps are perfect for destination for all levels of rock climbers. It is also a paradise for ice climbing fanatics. There are numerous routes for both rock and ice climbers who wish to experience an unforgettable experience in the Alps.NightlifeAustrian cities have innumerable attractions during the day but also at night. There are plenty of clubs, discos and bars with live music waiting for party animals. Those who don’t like this way of spending an evening can go for an evening at the opera, a theatre performance, a glass of wine in a tavern or a nice dinner in a traditional Viennese restaurant.OthersAustria is a paradise for cyclists thanks to great infrastructure and well-marked routes. Other popular activities include horse riding and playing golf. The country is also famous for festivals and wine tours. Finally, holidays in Austria wouldn’t be complete without a short stop at one of many coffee shops (Kaffehaus) for a cup of coffee and a traditional Austrian dessert.