A practical guide to an amazing holiday in Austria for beginners
Are you planning to go on holiday to Austria for the first time? Then this guide is just what you need. From stunning mountain landscapes and crystal-clear lakes to winter sports and summer hiking, Austria has something for everyone. In this practical blog, I will take you step by step through planning an unforgettable holiday in this beautiful Alpine country.
Why Austria?
Austria is a popular holiday destination all year round. In winter, it is a paradise for winter sports enthusiasts, with thousands of kilometres of ski slopes. In summer, the landscape becomes a green paradise for hikers, cyclists and nature lovers. What makes Austria especially attractive is its combination of natural beauty, hospitality and comfortable accommodation, whether you are travelling as a family or with a large group.
Holiday Country Austria in Figures
Austria attracts over 45 million tourists every year, many of whom come from the Netherlands, Germany and Belgium. The country is particularly popular for winter sports, boasting more than 7,000 kilometres of ski slopes.
However, it is also becoming increasingly popular in the summer months, with over 40,000 kilometres of marked hiking trails, hundreds of mountain lifts that operate in the summer and countless clear-water lakes. Austria is a top destination for families and active holidaymakers, as well as those looking for peace and quiet.
You should go on holiday to Austria if you...
... love nature, mountains and being active. Austria is the ideal destination for anyone who likes to be outdoors - whether on skis, by bike, on a mountain hike or by the lake. You choose Austria if you...
- Do you want to go hiking in the mountains and enjoy fantastic views of the Alps, as you would in the Zillertal or the Wilder Kaiser?
- Do you want to visit an authentic mountain village, such as Alpbach, Filzmoos or Bad Gastein?
- You like to go hiking with your dog and let them swim in beautiful lakes such as the Weissensee or the Achensee.
- As a family, you want to enjoy toboggan runs, climbing forests and children's parks (e.g. Serfaus-Fiss-Ladis or Bärenland in Vorarlberg).
- You want to go skiing with your friends. Popular ski resorts such as Saalbach-Hinterglemm, Westendorf or Sölden offer cosy après-ski and large group accommodation.
- You want to sample Austrian specialities such as apple strudel, Kaiserschmarrn or Käsespätzle.
- Or perhaps you seek peace and quiet away from the hustle and bustle in idyllic valleys such as Lesachtal or Großarltal?
So which Austrian region do you choose?
Austria is made up of many different regions, which are actually federal states, each with their own character, landscape and opportunities. Whether you are looking for an active holiday, a relaxing family break or a group stay surrounded by nature, you are sure to find a region that suits you. Below is an overview:
1. Tyrol: the sporting heart of Austria.
Tyrol is Austria's most famous region. It is renowned for its stunning mountain landscapes, charming villages and superb infrastructure, making it an ideal destination for summer and winter holidays. With over 1,200 mountain lifts, 20,000 kilometres of hiking trails, and vast ski areas such as the Zillertal Arena and the SkiWelt Wilder Kaiser – Brixental, it is an ideal destination for active holidaymakers.
Popular resorts such as Mayrhofen in the Zillertal Valley and Sankt Johann in Tirol attract many visitors each year who are looking for a combination of nature, sports, and Tyrolean hospitality. Whether you want to hike, ski, mountain bike or simply unwind in a cosy holiday home, Tyrol has something for everyone.
Tyrol: excellent accessibility
Thanks to its central location and easy accessibility, Tyrol is an ideal destination for families and larger groups. Are you bringing your dog along? Then Tyrol is also a good choice.
2. Salzburg - where nature and culture go hand in hand
Salzburgerland is the perfect place to combine nature and culture. Take beautiful walks through the impressive Hohe Tauern National Park, the largest protected area in the Alps, or visit Salzburg, Mozart's baroque city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, the fresh mountain air blends effortlessly with classical music.
With more than 7,200 kilometres of marked hiking trails, it is a true paradise for hikers of all levels.
Famous resorts and ski regions Salzburgerland
Popular destinations such as Zell am See, Kaprun and Flachau are ideal for summer and winter holidays alike. You will find mountains, glaciers and lakes, as well as good facilities for those seeking a sporty or relaxing holiday. Salzburgerland is also perfect for families, offering summer toboggan runs, adventure parks and beautiful hiking trails.
Looking for ski resorts in Salzburgerland? Well-known areas such as Saalbach Hinterglemm Leogang Fieberbrunn, Salzburger Sportwelt and Wildkogel Arena are all here.
3. Carinthia: sun, lakes and relaxation
This southern region is known for its sunny climate and clear lakes, such as Millstätter See and Klopeiner See. The Klopeiner See is Austria's warmest lake, making it the perfect place for a summer holiday with children or dogs. There are plenty of pet-friendly accommodation options here. Whether you want to cycle, stand-up paddleboard, swim or just relax by the water, Carinthia is Austria in summer. But make no mistake: Carinthia also has some excellent ski resorts, such as Turracher Höhe and Innerkrems-Kremsbrücke.
Klagenfurt, the capital of Carinthia, is well worth a visit and is one of Austria's most beautiful old towns. Austria's highest mountain, the Großglockner, is also located here. You'll certainly want to see that one too!
4. Vorarlberg - small-scale, charming and pure nature
Situated in the far west of Austria, on the borders with Switzerland, Liechtenstein and Germany, Vorarlberg is an undiscovered gem for those who love peace, nature and authenticity. Although the region is less well-known than Tyrol, for example, it is popular with hikers, families and those seeking peace and quiet, who prefer to avoid the crowds.
Important places in Vorarlberg include:
Bregenz (800 km from Utrecht) is located on Lake Constance. Montafon is a green and diverse valley with authentic villages, hiking trails and mountain bike routes, as well as access to the modern Silvretta-Montafon ski area. Feldkirch is a historic town with a medieval centre and an atmospheric location on the River Ill.
The region is home to beautiful mountain panoramas and well-marked hiking trails, especially in areas such as the Bregenzerwald and the Montafon. It is ideal for holidaymakers who appreciate a small-scale, natural and tranquil environment.
Vorarlberg winter sports
There is plenty to enjoy in Vorarlberg in winter, too. The region boasts charming, snow-sure ski resorts such as Lech-Zürs, Damüls-Mellau and Silvretta-Montafon. Did you know that many royal families always spend their winter sports holidays in Vorarlberg? The village of Lech is known for its luxury, discretion and excellent facilities - without the mass tourism of larger areas.
Vorarlberg is a wonderful part of Austria - quiet, small and very versatile.
5. Styria - the green heart of Austria
Styria, also known as Steiermark, is a green and diverse region in south-east Austria. Rolling hills, vast forests, vineyards, thermal baths and charming villages are just some of the attractions you will find here. Styria is an ideal destination for nature lovers, those seeking peace and culture, and families looking for an alternative to the high Alps.
In Graz, the capital of Styria and Austria's second largest city, you can stroll through a historic city centre that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In Bad Blumau, you can relax in the colourful thermal baths designed by the Austrian artist, Friedensreich Hundertwasser.
Ideal for nature lovers - Styria
If you're a nature lover, a hike through the spectacular Bärenschützklamm gorge is highly recommended. This unique experience takes you past steep rock faces, wooden ladders and thundering waterfalls. Feeling adventurous or travelling with children? Then the Nocky Flitzer in Turracher Höhe is a must. This summer toboggan run winds spectacularly through the mountain landscape, offering plenty of fun for all ages.
Another special place is the Almenland Nature Park, one of the largest contiguous alpine pasture areas in Europe. Here, you can enjoy hiking among mountain pastures, farms and cheese makers.
Styria is the perfect destination for your winter holiday.
Those who think that Styria is only suitable for summer holidays are mistaken: winter sports enthusiasts are well catered for here, too. Popular destinations include Schladming Dachstein, Kreischberg or die Tauplitz, which are especially popular with families and quiet skiers. Styria may be less well-known than Tyrol or Salzburgerland, but it is at least as attractive — precisely because of its spaciousness, diversity, and authentic atmosphere.
Which accommodation do you choose?
Austria is all about renting a holiday home, chalet or apartments. Hotels and campsites are less popular with families and groups who like to have their own place. Through our website you can easily:
- Compare hundreds of accommodation options.
- Filter by region, number of guests, and whether your dog can come along.
- Find holiday homes for between two and 50 people.
An additional benefit is that you don't have to search for different providers yourself, as we bring together the offers of major partners in one place.
Tips for your first holiday in Austria
- When it comes to transport, the car is often the most convenient option. Just be aware of vignette requirements on motorways. Read all about vignettes, snow tyres and more in our blog about travelling to Austria by car.
- Looking for more inspiration? Read our blogs on 7 beautiful lakes in Austria and 10 essential stops in Austria.
- Book well in advance, especially during the Christmas holidays, New Year's Eve and Carnival, as the most popular accommodation tends to get booked up quickly.
- Check whether your dog is welcome — our platform lets you easily filter for pet-friendly accommodation.
- Be prepared for the weather: there can be heavy showers in the mountains even in summer.
Conclusion
Austria is the ideal destination for a varied holiday, whether you are seeking sporting challenges or simply peace and quiet in nature. With the right preparation and suitable accommodation, you are guaranteed an amazing holiday. Would you like to find your ideal holiday home right away? Browse the wide range of offers for your first (or next) holiday in Austria.
Holiday homes Austria: a selection
On holiday to Austria
My name is René Schwarte, founder and co-owner of Ferienhaus-Tirol.eu. With many years of experience in holiday home rentals and deep familiarity with international guest expectations, I understand what makes a vacation truly enjoyable.
Ferienhaus-Tirol.eu offers a wide selection of carefully curated holiday homes, chalets and group accommodations throughout Austria. Whether you're travelling as a couple or with a group of up to 50 people – we help you find the right place with ease.
Our website is available in English, German and Dutch. We speak your language and are happy to assist you with any questions or special requests.
Need help?
Feel free to get in touch – we're here to make your Austrian holiday unforgettable.
Phone: +31854016545 Mail: info@Ferienhaus-Tirol.eu
René Schwarte
Co-OWNER
