Austria often gets overlooked, but there are SO many hidden gems nestled in this tiny country. After spending two weeks updating the Rick Steves' Vienna guidebook this summer, I feel pretty confident in recommending it for your next vacation.
Why Austria?: The Hapsburgs' left plenty behind to keep even the most avid tourist busy (especially in Vienna), but it's the Austrian countryside where the real gemutlichkeit (which translated means coziness) can be found. The Austrians are said to be a bit more laid back than their German neighbors and they love the great outdoors as much as a good cafe.
Where?: Austria, Germany and Switzerland make a great two week vacation, but with more time in Austria I'd pair the cities of Vienna and Salzburg with smaller towns like Halstatt (touristy & crowded) and regions like the Tirol or the Danube Valley.
When?: Austria makes a great place for a winter ski vacation or a summer holiday. It's beautiful any time of year, but I prefer early October when the fall colors appear and the strum (young wine) and onion cake are traditionally served. You can almost feel the excitement in the air as the winemakers begin their fall harvest.
What?: Here are a few ideas of things to do in Austria with kids:
Salzburg - Hohensalzburg Fortress & Sound of Music Bike Tour
Vienna - Schonbrunn Palace, Spanish Riding School & Haus der Musik
Wachau Valley (Danube) - If your family loves to cycle then you can't miss this stop. Make your home base in Melk and ride along the Danube to Krems. The logistics here can be a bit difficult so do your research ahead of time.
How?: Germany and Austria are easily doable by train, but if visiting the countryside consider renting a car.
Questions? Comments? Looking for a hotel or a family-friendly guide in Austria? Post on my Facebook feed or message me.
Stay tuned tomorrow for more travel inspiration!
Why Austria?: The Hapsburgs' left plenty behind to keep even the most avid tourist busy (especially in Vienna), but it's the Austrian countryside where the real gemutlichkeit (which translated means coziness) can be found. The Austrians are said to be a bit more laid back than their German neighbors and they love the great outdoors as much as a good cafe.
Where?: Austria, Germany and Switzerland make a great two week vacation, but with more time in Austria I'd pair the cities of Vienna and Salzburg with smaller towns like Halstatt (touristy & crowded) and regions like the Tirol or the Danube Valley.
When?: Austria makes a great place for a winter ski vacation or a summer holiday. It's beautiful any time of year, but I prefer early October when the fall colors appear and the strum (young wine) and onion cake are traditionally served. You can almost feel the excitement in the air as the winemakers begin their fall harvest.
What?: Here are a few ideas of things to do in Austria with kids:
Salzburg - Hohensalzburg Fortress & Sound of Music Bike Tour
Vienna - Schonbrunn Palace, Spanish Riding School & Haus der Musik
Wachau Valley (Danube) - If your family loves to cycle then you can't miss this stop. Make your home base in Melk and ride along the Danube to Krems. The logistics here can be a bit difficult so do your research ahead of time.
How?: Germany and Austria are easily doable by train, but if visiting the countryside consider renting a car.
Questions? Comments? Looking for a hotel or a family-friendly guide in Austria? Post on my Facebook feed or message me.
Stay tuned tomorrow for more travel inspiration!