austria travel magazine

AUSTRIATRAVEL MAGAZINEdestinationsart & architecturemusicnaturewine travelwintertravel tipsevents

AUSTRIA2009_back_up:Layout 8 3/31/09 4:37 PM

Editorial

PHOTOS:AUSTRIANTOURISTOFFICE:

www.austria.info 3

PHOTOS:1)AND

3)AUSTRIAN

TOURISTOFFICE;2)TVBI/STEFAN

DAUTH;

4)WIENTOURISM

US/CLAUDIOALESSAND

RI

2 www.austria.info

First and foremost, thank you for your interest in visiting Austria. A unique andcharming country, Austria is a combination of pristine landscapes and bustling cities,historic town centers and cutting-edge architecture, love of tradition and thirst for thenew. These exciting contrasts are part of the reason that veteran travelers report abouttheir Austria experiences in such glowing terms. What keeps them coming back,though, is the famous Austrian hospitality, and that sense of “Gemütlichkeit”: a lifestylethat celebrates the finer moments in life, such as a good meal in the company offriends, a nice long conversation over a cup of coffee, or a long walk through the crispmountain air, with the sun warming your cheeks and the smell of melting snow andfresh grass in the air.

Dear Traveler:

Our “Austria Travel Magazine” gives you an overview of the various things to experiencein our country. You will find many practical travel tips, information on well-knownresorts, and sights, as well as hotel information and a calendar with annual eventsworth planning a trip around. Read about Austrian history, must-see museums andfestivals, or Austrian wine culture and cuisine.

We hope that this magazine will whet your appetite for a one-of-a-kind travelexperience. Let us know if we can be of any further assistance with your travel plans,and be sure to visit www.austria.info for even more helpful information.

Sincerely yours, Michael Gigl

MapAustria at a glance

HistoryExperience Austria’s Imperial Past

ViennaEnjoy Vienna throughout the Seasons

MusicAustria’s Top 11 Music Festivals

SalzburgExplore the Wonders of Salzburg and the SalzburgerLand

Food & WineWhen Modern Meets Classical

Nature ParadiseIdeas for Idyllic Nature Experiences

The ArlbergThe Cradle of Skiing

Winter MagicBy Roger Toll, Former Editor of Snow Country Magazine

Christmas MarketsWhere to Find the Most Charming Christmas Markets in Austria

Event HighlightsThe Best Annual Festivals, Concerts and Events at a Glance

Austrian Tourist Office Inc.P.O. Box 1142, New York, NY 10108-1142Canada Tel: (416) 967 3381US Tel: (212) 944-6880 • US Fax: (212) 730-4568www.austria.info

Executive EditorMichael GiglManaging EditorTeresa Faudon

Disclaimer“Austria Travel Magazine” is an official publication of the Austria Tourist Office Inc., New York, NY. TheAustrian Tourist Office does not endorse any products or services in this Travel Planner.

The descriptions are provided as a guide only. Always check the descriptions and timetables with thesupplier before relying on them to make travel plans. The Austrian Tourist Office does not acceptresponsibility of liability for any claims arising out of the descriptions or information supplied to it. Anyrights conferred by any other legislation which cannot be excluded, limited or modified are not affectedby this disclaimer.

-| 1 Picturesque landscape in Tirol-| 2 Innsbruck boasts cutting-edge architecture such as Zaha Hadid’s funicular station-| 3 Traditional costumes with detailed ornaments are still worn for special occasions-| 4 Vienna has the largest wine growing area of any European capital-| 5 The Lippizan stallions of the Spanish Riding School-| 6 Schönbrunn Palace was the summer residence of the former Imperial Family-| 7 The Kunsthaus Graz perfectly blends architectural styles

Michael Gigl, Director,Austrian Tourist Office North America

Travel TipsUseful Information for Planning your Trip to Austria

Art & DesignFrom Old Masters to Postmodernists

Modern ArchitectureA Short Tour of Austria’s Architecture Highlights

www.fsc.org / SGS-COC-003717 - SGS-COC-003710

1

2 3 4 5 6 7


EditorialPHOTOS:AUSTRIANTOURISTOFFICE:

www.austria.info 3

PHOTOS:1)AND

3)AUSTRIAN

TOURISTOFFICE;2)TVBI/STEFAN

DAUTH;

4)WIENTOURISM

US/CLAUDIOALESSAND

RI

2 www.austria.info

First and foremost, thank you for your interest in visiting Austria. A unique andcharming country, Austria is a combination of pristine landscapes and bustling cities,historic town centers and cutting-edge architecture, love of tradition and thirst for thenew. These exciting contrasts are part of the reason that veteran travelers report abouttheir Austria experiences in such glowing terms. What keeps them coming back,though, is the famous Austrian hospitality, and that sense of “Gemütlichkeit”: a lifestylethat celebrates the finer moments in life, such as a good meal in the company offriends, a nice long conversation over a cup of coffee, or a long walk through the crispmountain air, with the sun warming your cheeks and the smell of melting snow andfresh grass in the air.

Dear Traveler:

Our “Austria Travel Magazine” gives you an overview of the various things to experiencein our country. You will find many practical travel tips, information on well-knownresorts, and sights, as well as hotel information and a calendar with annual eventsworth planning a trip around. Read about Austrian history, must-see museums andfestivals, or Austrian wine culture and cuisine.

We hope that this magazine will whet your appetite for a one-of-a-kind travelexperience. Let us know if we can be of any further assistance with your travel plans,and be sure to visit www.austria.info for even more helpful information.

Sincerely yours, Michael Gigl

MapAustria at a glance

HistoryExperience Austria’s Imperial Past

ViennaEnjoy Vienna throughout the Seasons

MusicAustria’s Top 11 Music Festivals

SalzburgExplore the Wonders of Salzburg and the SalzburgerLand

Food & WineWhen Modern Meets Classical

Nature ParadiseIdeas for Idyllic Nature Experiences

The ArlbergThe Cradle of Skiing

Winter MagicBy Roger Toll, Former Editor of Snow Country Magazine

Christmas MarketsWhere to Find the Most Charming Christmas Markets in Austria

Event HighlightsThe Best Annual Festivals, Concerts and Events at a Glance

Austrian Tourist Office Inc.P.O. Box 1142, New York, NY 10108-1142Canada Tel: (416) 967 3381US Tel: (212) 944-6880 • US Fax: (212) 730-4568www.austria.info

Executive EditorMichael GiglManaging EditorTeresa Faudon

Disclaimer“Austria Travel Magazine” is an official publication of the Austria Tourist Office Inc., New York, NY. TheAustrian Tourist Office does not endorse any products or services in this Travel Planner.

The descriptions are provided as a guide only. Always check the descriptions and timetables with thesupplier before relying on them to make travel plans. The Austrian Tourist Office does not acceptresponsibility of liability for any claims arising out of the descriptions or information supplied to it. Anyrights conferred by any other legislation which cannot be excluded, limited or modified are not affectedby this disclaimer.

-| 1 Picturesque landscape in Tirol-| 2 Innsbruck boasts cutting-edge architecture such as Zaha Hadid’s funicular station-| 3 Traditional costumes with detailed ornaments are still worn for special occasions-| 4 Vienna has the largest wine growing area of any European capital-| 5 The Lippizan stallions of the Spanish Riding School-| 6 Schönbrunn Palace was the summer residence of the former Imperial Family-| 7 The Kunsthaus Graz perfectly blends architectural styles

Michael Gigl, Director,Austrian Tourist Office North America

Travel TipsUseful Information for Planning your Trip to Austria

Art & DesignFrom Old Masters to Postmodernists

Modern ArchitectureA Short Tour of Austria’s Architecture Highlights

www.fsc.org / SGS-COC-003717 - SGS-COC-003710

1

2 3 4 5 6 7

AUSTRIA2009_back_up:Layout 8 3/31/09 4:38 PM Page 2

4 www.austria.info www.austria.info 5

MapMap

Germany

Czech Republic

Slovakia

Hungary

Italy

Slovenia

Liechtenstein

Switzerland

Vorarlberg

Tirol

East Tirol

Salzburg

Upper Austria

Lower Austria

Burg

enla

nd

Carinthia

Styria

Austriaat a glance

BREGENZ INNSBRUCK SALZBURG GRAZ LINZ ST. PÖLTEN EISENSTADT VIENNA AUSTRIA

FEDERAL STATES POPULATION STATE CAPITAL AREAS

VIENNA 1.66 m. VIENNA 160 mi2

LOWER AUSTRIA 1.59 m. ST. PÖLTEN 7,403 mi2

BURGENLAND 280,300 EISENSTADT 1,531 mi2

STYRIA 1.20 m. GRAZ 6,329 mi2

UPPER AUSTRIA 1.40 m. LINZ 4,626 mi2

SALZBURG 529,600 SALZBURG 2,762 mi2

CARINTHIA 560,400 KLAGENFURT 3,682 mi2

TIROL 700,400 INNSBRUCK 4,883 mi2

VORARLBERG 364,900 BREGENZ 1,004 mi2

GENERAL INFORMATION

FACTS ON AUSTRIA

AREA 32,383 mi2

POPULATION 8.2 m.

CAPITAL VIENNA

LANGUAGE GERMAN

TIME ZONE CENTRAL EUROPE TIME (CET)

CURRENCY EURO (1€€ = 100 CENT)

KLAGENFURT

PHOTOS: AUSTRIAN TOURIST OFFICE; LINZ TOURISM



MapMap

Germany

Czech Republic

Slovakia

Hungary

Italy

Slovenia

Liechtenstein

Switzerland

Vorarlberg

Tirol

East Tirol

Salzburg

Upper Austria

Lower Austria

Burg

enla

nd

Carinthia

Styria

Austriaat a glance

BREGENZ INNSBRUCK SALZBURG GRAZ LINZ ST. PÖLTEN EISENSTADT VIENNA AUSTRIA

FEDERAL STATES POPULATION STATE CAPITAL AREAS

VIENNA 1.66 m. VIENNA 160 mi2

LOWER AUSTRIA 1.59 m. ST. PÖLTEN 7,403 mi2

BURGENLAND 280,300 EISENSTADT 1,531 mi2

STYRIA 1.20 m. GRAZ 6,329 mi2

UPPER AUSTRIA 1.40 m. LINZ 4,626 mi2

SALZBURG 529,600 SALZBURG 2,762 mi2

CARINTHIA 560,400 KLAGENFURT 3,682 mi2

TIROL 700,400 INNSBRUCK 4,883 mi2

VORARLBERG 364,900 BREGENZ 1,004 mi2

GENERAL INFORMATION

FACTS ON AUSTRIA

AREA 32,383 mi2

POPULATION 8.2 m.

CAPITAL VIENNA

LANGUAGE GERMAN

TIME ZONE CENTRAL EUROPE TIME (CET)

CURRENCY EURO (1€€ = 100 CENT)

KLAGENFURT

PHOTOS: AUSTRIAN TOURIST OFFICE; LINZ TOURISM


2001

Austria adopts the EURO

20th Century

Austria finds a new identity after two world wars

1438-1806

Habsburgs rule the Holy Roman Empire

976-1246

The Babenbergs expand their territory

996

Austria’s name appears in “Ostarrichi” document

1278

Austria is hereditary fief of the Habsburgs

History

PHOTOS: AUSTRIAN TOURIST OFFICE

www.austria.info 7

History

Experience Austria’s Imperial PastAustria is the perfect place to experience history first hand. From archaeological

excavations to open-air museums and countless exhibitions, Austria’s eventfulhistory from the Roman era to the present day is apparent everywhere. Not only

are the Austrians acutely aware of their heritage, they also incorporate it into everydaylife through cherished traditions and stories that are passed on from generation togeneration. As a result, the country’s historical artifacts, buildings and sites arepainstakingly preserved and renovated, offering visitors and everyone interested aglimpse into an exciting and varied past.

In 1991, the discovery of a mummified Stone Age man frozen in an Alpine glacier,whom the Austrians lovingly call “Ötzi”, made it very clear that Austria’s history trulyis ancient. From the 7th century B.C., the territory of today’s Austria was regularlyraided and populated by belligerent Celts and Germanic tribes. Later, Romans settledin the area, and many of today’s cities stand on Roman civil or military settlements.After the collapse of the Roman Empire, Germanic tribes, Slavs, and Avars settled inthe region. Charlemagne, the first Holy Roman Emperor, established a provincialoutpost in the territory to protect his empire from eastern Magyar invaders. Over theyears, the region gained in importance and not only as a defensive bulwark. Twodynasties, first the Babenbergs and later the Habsburgs, added territories to their main


6 www.austria.info

lands through strategic marriages, heritage contracts, andpolitical cunning. Under Habsburg rule, the Austrian landseventually spanned half the globe, including Spain and itsterritories in the New World. Consequently, the countryadopted many new customs and ideas, many of which thrivetoday in Austrian culture.

The rule of the Habsburg ended only with World War I, and ittook the country a while to form a new identity after centuriesof belonging to an ethnically diverse empire. After the darkyears of World War II, when Austria was part of the ThirdReich, the Second Republic was formed in 1955 and in the50 years that followed, Austria established itself as a stableand peaceful country rich in culture and history.

You can experience some of Austria’s history yourself whenyou visit the various historical sites in Austria. The WachauRegion, for example, is the site of one of the most famousarchaeological finds in Austria, a famous figurine named theVenus of Willendorf, which was created around 25,000 BC.Hallstatt, a picturesque lakeside town, was the main site of anIron Age culture with the same name. The Roman civilization leftits traces as well. You can visit excavation sites in Vienna, or atthe nearby Open Air Museum Petronell, the site of a formerRoman army camp and important civilian town.

While the remnants of ancient Rome are impressive to visit,the medieval castles that are scattered all across the countrywill transport you back to a time when knights in shiningarmor were supposed to defend their ladies and peasantservants from hostile invaders. Mostly though, they fortifiedtheir castles, not only to ward off Turkish armies, but also toprotect their interests from equally ambitious politicalenemies. The ruins of Duernstein Castle, where Richard theLionhearted was held captive, overlook the picturesqueWachau Valley, which was then a major thoroughfare forknights on their way to some Crusade or other.

Castles, however, are not the only remnants of the MiddleAges worth visiting. Hall in Tirol, for example, used to be animportant mining town and the site of the royal mint. Here thefirst Thaler was minted, in its day, it was one of the mostimportant coins in Europe. Learned monks vast libraries inabbeys and monasteries, which held vast libraries. Many ofthose monasteries have been altered over time, but originalstructures can still be made out, and the libraries, such asthe one in the imposing Melk Abbey, display examples ofparticularly valuable hand-painted manuscripts.

When the emperor of the Holy Roman Empire, Franz II,pronounced himself Emperor of Austria, the hereditaryAustrian Empire was established. Our cities still display thesplendor and romance of these times. You can visit thepalaces, where the ruling families lived, treaties were signed,and history was made. The spires of impressive cathedralsgive the skylines a distinctive look, and the stucco facades ofBiedermeier houses reveal glimpses of earlier lifestyles.

The prime example for a city that has preserved its historicalcharacter to this day is, of course, Vienna. By the turn of the21st century, Vienna has established itself as a trendsettingmetropolis with a cultural life that shows its influence all overEurope. When you visit Vienna today, you can tour Schönbrunnpalace, the summer residence of the Imperial family, or havea look at the formidable Neoclassical buildings, such as theState Opera or the Parliament, that stand where the formercity wall used to be. You can walk past the VienneseSecession buildings of Adolf Loos and Otto Wagner, visitexhibitions of Wiener Werkstätte furniture, or dance to JohannStrauss’s waltzes at one of the countless Viennese balls. Youwill notice that the Viennese live and love their history asmuch as they embrace innovation and change.

-| 1 Baroque library at Admont Monastery, Styria

-| 2 Ostarrichi document at the National Library, Vienna

-| 3 Klosterneuburg: Babenberg family tree

-| 4 The Golden Roof in Innsbruck, seat of Emperor Maximilian I.

-| 5 Schönbrunn Palace, Vienna; Former summer residence of the Habsburgs

-| 6 Crown of the Austrian Empire at the Secular Imperial Treasury, Vienna

-| 7 Old meets new when a medieval roofscape contrasts the futuristic Kunsthaus in Graz

1804

Franz I assumes the title of Austrian Emperor Spectacular Castles in Austria

• Ambras Palace, InnsbruckThe beautiful Renaissance palace accommodates theoldest art and armory collection of Europe.www.khm.at/en/ambras-castle

• Hochosterwitz Castle, CarinthiaCarinthia’s landmark, an extraordinary enclosure with 14 castle gates, was first documented in 860. www.burg-hochosterwitz.or.at

• Hohenwerfen Castle, SalzburgerLand Built in the eleventh century, the former archbishop’sdefense fortress houses a museum and falconry.www.salzburg-burgen.at/en/werfen

• Riegersburg, StyriaThis mighty castle thrones on a 482 meter high volcano.Built in the 11th century, the Riegersburg has never beenconquered. www.riegersburg.com

1

2 3 4 5 6 7


2001

Austria adopts the EURO

20th Century

Austria finds a new identity after two world wars

1438-1806

Habsburgs rule the Holy Roman Empire

976-1246

The Babenbergs expand their territory

996

Austria’s name appears in “Ostarrichi” document

1278

Austria is hereditary fief of the Habsburgs

HistoryPHOTOS: AUSTRIAN TOURIST OFFICE

www.austria.info 7

History

Experience Austria’s Imperial PastAustria is the perfect place to experience history first hand. From archaeological

excavations to open-air museums and countless exhibitions, Austria’s eventfulhistory from the Roman era to the present day is apparent everywhere. Not only

are the Austrians acutely aware of their heritage, they also incorporate it into everydaylife through cherished traditions and stories that are passed on from generation togeneration. As a result, the country’s historical artifacts, buildings and sites arepainstakingly preserved and renovated, offering visitors and everyone interested aglimpse into an exciting and varied past.

In 1991, the discovery of a mummified Stone Age man frozen in an Alpine glacier,whom the Austrians lovingly call “Ötzi”, made it very clear that Austria’s history trulyis ancient. From the 7th century B.C., the territory of today’s Austria was regularlyraided and populated by belligerent Celts and Germanic tribes. Later, Romans settledin the area, and many of today’s cities stand on Roman civil or military settlements.After the collapse of the Roman Empire, Germanic tribes, Slavs, and Avars settled inthe region. Charlemagne, the first Holy Roman Emperor, established a provincialoutpost in the territory to protect his empire from eastern Magyar invaders. Over theyears, the region gained in importance and not only as a defensive bulwark. Twodynasties, first the Babenbergs and later the Habsburgs, added territories to their main


6 www.austria.info

lands through strategic marriages, heritage contracts, andpolitical cunning. Under Habsburg rule, the Austrian landseventually spanned half the globe, including Spain and itsterritories in the New World. Consequently, the countryadopted many new customs and ideas, many of which thrivetoday in Austrian culture.

The rule of the Habsburg ended only with World War I, and ittook the country a while to form a new identity after centuriesof belonging to an ethnically diverse empire. After the darkyears of World War II, when Austria was part of the ThirdReich, the Second Republic was formed in 1955 and in the50 years that followed, Austria established itself as a stableand peaceful country rich in culture and history.

You can experience some of Austria’s history yourself whenyou visit the various historical sites in Austria. The WachauRegion, for example, is the site of one of the most famousarchaeological finds in Austria, a famous figurine named theVenus of Willendorf, which was created around 25,000 BC.Hallstatt, a picturesque lakeside town, was the main site of anIron Age culture with the same name. The Roman civilization leftits traces as well. You can visit excavation sites in Vienna, or atthe nearby Open Air Museum Petronell, the site of a formerRoman army camp and important civilian town.

While the remnants of ancient Rome are impressive to visit,the medieval castles that are scattered all across the countrywill transport you back to a time when knights in shiningarmor were supposed to defend their ladies and peasantservants from hostile invaders. Mostly though, they fortifiedtheir castles, not only to ward off Turkish armies, but also toprotect their interests from equally ambitious politicalenemies. The ruins of Duernstein Castle, where Richard theLionhearted was held captive, overlook the picturesqueWachau Valley, which was then a major thoroughfare forknights on their way to some Crusade or other.

Castles, however, are not the only remnants of the MiddleAges worth visiting. Hall in Tirol, for example, used to be animportant mining town and the site of the royal mint. Here thefirst Thaler was minted, in its day, it was one of the mostimportant coins in Europe. Learned monks vast libraries inabbeys and monasteries, which held vast libraries. Many ofthose monasteries have been altered over time, but originalstructures can still be made out, and the libraries, such asthe one in the imposing Melk Abbey, display examples ofparticularly valuable hand-painted manuscripts.

When the emperor of the Holy Roman Empire, Franz II,pronounced himself Emperor of Austria, the hereditaryAustrian Empire was established. Our cities still display thesplendor and romance of these times. You can visit thepalaces, where the ruling families lived, treaties were signed,and history was made. The spires of impressive cathedralsgive the skylines a distinctive look, and the stucco facades ofBiedermeier houses reveal glimpses of earlier lifestyles.

The prime example for a city that has preserved its historicalcharacter to this day is, of course, Vienna. By the turn of the21st century, Vienna has established itself as a trendsettingmetropolis with a cultural life that shows its influence all overEurope. When you visit Vienna today, you can tour Schönbrunnpalace, the summer residence of the Imperial family, or havea look at the formidable Neoclassical buildings, such as theState Opera or the Parliament, that stand where the formercity wall used to be. You can walk past the VienneseSecession buildings of Adolf Loos and Otto Wagner, visitexhibitions of Wiener Werkstätte furniture, or dance to JohannStrauss’s waltzes at one of the countless Viennese balls. Youwill notice that the Viennese live and love their history asmuch as they embrace innovation and change.

-| 1 Baroque library at Admont Monastery, Styria

-| 2 Ostarrichi document at the National Library, Vienna

-| 3 Klosterneuburg: Babenberg family tree

-| 4 The Golden Roof in Innsbruck, seat of Emperor Maximilian I.

-| 5 Schönbrunn Palace, Vienna; Former summer residence of the Habsburgs

-| 6 Crown of the Austrian Empire at the Secular Imperial Treasury, Vienna

-| 7 Old meets new when a medieval roofscape contrasts the futuristic Kunsthaus in Graz

1804

Franz I assumes the title of Austrian Emperor Spectacular Castles in Austria

• Ambras Palace, InnsbruckThe beautiful Renaissance palace accommodates theoldest art and armory collection of Europe.www.khm.at/en/ambras-castle

• Hochosterwitz Castle, CarinthiaCarinthia’s landmark, an extraordinary enclosure with 14 castle gates, was first documented in 860. www.burg-hochosterwitz.or.at

• Hohenwerfen Castle, SalzburgerLand Built in the eleventh century, the former archbishop’sdefense fortress houses a museum and falconry.www.salzburg-burgen.at/en/werfen

• Riegersburg, StyriaThis mighty castle thrones on a 482 meter high volcano.Built in the 11th century, the Riegersburg has never beenconquered. www.riegersburg.com

1

2 3 4 5 6 7


ViennaVienna Editor’s Pick: Take the time to enjoy the atmosphere of a typical Viennese coffeehouse.These Viennese institutions are known for their many varieties of coffee and exquisitepastries. There is scarcely a guest who hasn’t, at least once, lost track of time because hegrew immersed in his newspaper or became involved in lively conversation. It was becauseof this atmosphere that many famous Austrian writers such as Karl Kraus did most of theirwriting at the coffeehouse.

www.wiener-kaffeehaus.at

PHOTOS: EDITOR’S PICK: AUSTRIAN TOURIST OFFICE; FOLLOWING PAGE: VIENN

A TOURIST BOARD/ROBERT OSM

ARK

8 www.austria.info

Editor’s Pick: Vienna’s very walkable city center has various shopping areas, each with aunique flair. Stroll along the Graben and the Kärntnerstrasse to find design stores and fashionboutiques. It will be worth your while to explore the side streets, as this is where many out-of-the-ordinary shops and outlets have sprung up recently.

To find your way around this and other shopping areas, go to www.vienna.info.

9

www.wienproducts.at

TAKE VIENNA HOME

ViennaHome!

Take

A. E. Köchert Juwelierewww.koechert.com

Join us on a tour through our beautiful Danube metropolisand discover the secret of Vienna’s charming atmosphere.Experience the fascinating world of music, culture, joie devivre, style, and charm that makes Vienna so special.Engage all your senses and enjoy everything Vienna hasto offer!

Whether you are looking for a souvenir to bring backhome, or just want to pamper yourself with a well-deserved present, look for the label WIEN PRODUCTS tofind high-quality products with a distinct Viennese touch.WIEN PRODUCTS stands for a variety of Viennesecompanies that subscribe to the same philosophy: they allemphasize the importance of outstanding craftsmanship,the highest standards of quality, and outstanding design.

Their products range from precious and custom-madejewelry to stylish accessories and exquisite china, fromhighest quality furniture to culinary delicacies. Evenseveral Vienna cultural institutions, such as the VienneseBoys Choir and the Spanish Riding School are part of theWIEN PRODUCTS brand.

The wonderful thing about WIEN PRODUCTS is that nomatter what product you decide on, you can be sure that itrepresents part of the fascinating aura of Vienna, so you cantake a piece of Vienna with you, wherever you go.

WIEN PRODUCTS is a project of the Vienna Chamber ofCommerce & Industry. It was founded in 1995 with the goalof supporting the export efforts of selected Vienneseconsumer goods manufacturers. The 55 companiescurrently associated with WIEN PRODUCTS produce goodsof outstanding quality, provide excellent service, and seek toincorporate Vienna’s unique flair and sense of aesthetics intheir products.

Further information about WIEN PRODUCTSis available on the Internet at www.wienproducts.at or from the WIEN PRODUCTS Service Center, tel.: +011 43 1 51450 1517

L. Jarosinski & J. Vaugoinwww.vaugoin.com

Mühlbauerwww.muehlbauer.at

J. & L. Lobmeyrwww.lobmeyr.at

Florian Ladstätterwww.beatica.com

Augartenwww.augarten.at

Skreinwww.skrein.at

Ludwig Reiterwww.ludwigreiter.at

Österreichische Werkstättenwww.austrianarts.com


Vienna

PHOTOS: W

INE CELLAR © WIENTOURISM

US/ LUKAS BECK; VIENN

A BOY’S CHOIR © WIENTOURISM

US/ CLAUDIO ALESSANDRI; ALBERTINA © WIENTOURISM

US / LOIS LAM

MERHUBER

www.austria.info 11

Vienna “Vienna has succeeded in preserving its traditions and combining them with the spirit of moderntimes.” Elisabeth Gürtler, owner of the legendary Hotel Sacher.

PHOTOS: M

RS. GUERTLER © WIENTOURISM

US / HERTHA HURNAUS; SCHOENBRUNN

© WIEN TOURISMUS/ M

AXUM

; MUSEUMSQUARTIER © WIENTOURISM

US/ ULLI KOSCHER; CITY HALL © WIENTOURISM

US/

10 www.austria.info

Editor's Pick: Be sure to purchase a Vienna Card, which grants you 72 hours of free publictransportation and reduced entry to a lot of museums and other attractions.

www.wienkarte.at/EN/

Love Life, Live Creativity in Viennathroughout the SeasonsEmotion, creativity, and tradition – this unmistakable “Viennese mix” awaits visitors of Vienna in every season. Tradition and modernity harmonize here as in noother city, turning Vienna into a paradise for people who love to explore and enjoy life.

• Vienna Boys’ ChoirThe famous boys’ choir (founded in 1498!) has delightedaudiences the world over for more than 500 years.www.wsk.at

• AlbertinaThe Albertina boasts an exceptional collection of graphicarts, with over 60,000 drawings and a million prints.www.albertina.at

• MuseumsQuartier (MQ) Modern art in the former Imperial Stables andcontemporary museum buildings, with the world’s largestEgon Schiele collection in the Leopold Museum.www.mqw.at

• Museum for Applied Art / Contemporary Art (MAK) Design is the main focus of the MAK. Furniture, glass, china,silver, and textiles from the Middle Ages to the present day,crafts from the Wiener Werkstätte, bentwood furniture byThonet and Art Nouveau highlights are on display. www.mak.at

• Belvedere Palace This Baroque jewel actually consists of two palaces, andhouses the Austrian Gallery, where you can admireGustav Klimt’s masterpiece “The Kiss”. ww.belvedere.at

• Vienna State OperaOne of the world’s leading opera houses—an architecturalmasterpiece and home to every star of the internationalworld of opera. www.wiener-staatsoper.at

• Museum of Fine ArtsThe Museum of Fine Arts houses one of the world’sforemost art collections, including the largest collection ofBruegels in the world.www.khm.at

• Giant Ferris WheelThe Giant Ferris Wheel in the Vienna Prater—madefamous by Harry Lime in Carol Reed’s filming of “TheThird Man”—is open all year long. www.wienerriesenrad.com

• Imperial Palace The Imperial Apartments, the Sissy Museum, the ImperialSilver Collection and the Spanish Riding School can allbe seen at Vienna’s Imperial Palace. www.hofburg-wien.at

• St. Stephen’s Cathedral St. Stephen’s Cathedral, Austria’s most eminent Gothicedifice, houses a wealth of art treasures. Climb the 343steps to the tower-keeper’s room of St. Stephen’s andenjoy a truly breathtaking view.www.stephanskirche.at

• Tip: In 2009, Vienna commemorates the 200thanniversary of the death of Joseph Haydn, who startedhis career as a member of the Vienna Boys’ Choir.Authentic sights and performances at the highest levelare guaranteed. And in 2010-2011 Vienna will celebratethe life and work of another world-famous composerwho lived and worked in Vienna: Gustav Mahler.

DON’T MISS:

Winter: Vienna hosts more than 300balls every year such as the ImperialBall, the Coffee Brewers' Ball, and theworld-famous Opera Ball. And it is notonly about the traditional waltz—contemporary sounds also have theirplace. A break at a cozy Viennese coffeehouse during a leisurely shopping trip inthe city is highly recommended, as isthe princely service at the imperial androyal (k.u.k.) court pastry shop Demel orat one of the many other formerpurveyors to the court. Enter the “shop& win” campaign in January andFebruary, and you might win first prize:a luxury trip to Vienna for two and10,000 Euros in spending money. Thereare also instant prizes for anyoneturning the wheel of fortune at theTourist Information Office.

Spring: A burst of colors and creationcan be found not only in Vienna’s parksand markets but also in fashionboutiques and modern galleries of thenew artists’ neighborhood aroundVienna’s Naschmarkt. Fans of imperialsplendor will love Schönbrunn Palace—Empress Sissi’s former summerresidence. Spring is perfect for exploringthis Baroque complex, which containsan enchanting park, the Palm House,the elevated Gloriette, and a beautifulzoo which dates back to 1752. Athletescan demonstrate their hiking, skating,and biking skills or participate in theVienna City Marathon.

Summer: The action in Vienna is on thestreets, during events at theMuseumsQuartier and on the citybeaches, cycling paths and recreationalareas along the Danube Canal. And, ofcourse, during Europe’s largest party,the Danube Island Festival at the end ofJune, and at the Music Film Festival onRathausplatz, one of the hot spots inJuly and August, where you can samplelocal and international cuisine and viewclassical music performances on a hugeoutdoor screen. Admirers of the oldmasters will be fascinated by thecollections in the Albertina and theMuseum of Fine Arts.

Autumn: During the “vienna, wine &design” campaign in October andNovember, an extensive programincluding a game with prizes—all about Viennese wines and youngViennese design—make autumn evenmore attractive. A hot tip: DuringBlickfang (literally: "eye catcher"), theMuseum for Applied Arts (MAK) turns intoa design department store for three days.

Starting in mid-November, the Magic ofAdvent in front of City Hall and manyother Christmas Markets offer deliciouspunch as well as arts and crafts. And onthe New Year’s Eve Path, the New Yearstarts exceptionally well.

Contact: Vienna Tourist Board1020 Vienna

Tel: +011 43 1 24 555Fax: +011 43 1 24 555-666

[email protected]


ViennaPHOTOS: W

INE CELLAR © WIENTOURISM

US/ LUKAS BECK; VIENN

A BOY’S CHOIR © WIENTOURISM

US/ CLAUDIO ALESSANDRI; ALBERTINA © WIENTOURISM

US / LOIS LAM

MERHUBER

www.austria.info 11

Vienna “Vienna has succeeded in preserving its traditions and combining them with the spirit of moderntimes.” Elisabeth Gürtler, owner of the legendary Hotel Sacher.

PHOTOS: M

RS. GUERTLER © WIENTOURISM

US / HERTHA HURNAUS; SCHOENBRUNN

© WIEN TOURISMUS/ M

AXUM

; MUSEUMSQUARTIER © WIENTOURISM

US/ ULLI KOSCHER; CITY HALL © WIENTOURISM

US/

10 www.austria.info

Editor's Pick: Be sure to purchase a Vienna Card, which grants you 72 hours of free publictransportation and reduced entry to a lot of museums and other attractions.

www.wienkarte.at/EN/

Love Life, Live Creativity in Viennathroughout the SeasonsEmotion, creativity, and tradition – this unmistakable “Viennese mix” awaits visitors of Vienna in every season. Tradition and modernity harmonize here as in noother city, turning Vienna into a paradise for people who love to explore and enjoy life.

• Vienna Boys’ ChoirThe famous boys’ choir (founded in 1498!) has delightedaudiences the world over for more than 500 years.www.wsk.at

• AlbertinaThe Albertina boasts an exceptional collection of graphicarts, with over 60,000 drawings and a million prints.www.albertina.at

• MuseumsQuartier (MQ) Modern art in the former Imperial Stables andcontemporary museum buildings, with the world’s largestEgon Schiele collection in the Leopold Museum.www.mqw.at

• Museum for Applied Art / Contemporary Art (MAK) Design is the main focus of the MAK. Furniture, glass, china,silver, and textiles from the Middle Ages to the present day,crafts from the Wiener Werkstätte, bentwood furniture byThonet and Art Nouveau highlights are on display. www.mak.at

• Belvedere Palace This Baroque jewel actually consists of two palaces, andhouses the Austrian Gallery, where you can admireGustav Klimt’s masterpiece “The Kiss”. ww.belvedere.at

• Vienna State OperaOne of the world’s leading opera houses—an architecturalmasterpiece and home to every star of the internationalworld of opera. www.wiener-staatsoper.at

• Museum of Fine ArtsThe Museum of Fine Arts houses one of the world’sforemost art collections, including the largest collection ofBruegels in the world.www.khm.at

• Giant Ferris WheelThe Giant Ferris Wheel in the Vienna Prater—madefamous by Harry Lime in Carol Reed’s filming of “TheThird Man”—is open all year long. www.wienerriesenrad.com

• Imperial Palace The Imperial Apartments, the Sissy Museum, the ImperialSilver Collection and the Spanish Riding School can allbe seen at Vienna’s Imperial Palace. www.hofburg-wien.at

• St. Stephen’s Cathedral St. Stephen’s Cathedral, Austria’s most eminent Gothicedifice, houses a wealth of art treasures. Climb the 343steps to the tower-keeper’s room of St. Stephen’s andenjoy a truly breathtaking view.www.stephanskirche.at

• Tip: In 2009, Vienna commemorates the 200thanniversary of the death of Joseph Haydn, who startedhis career as a member of the Vienna Boys’ Choir.Authentic sights and performances at the highest levelare guaranteed. And in 2010-2011 Vienna will celebratethe life and work of another world-famous composerwho lived and worked in Vienna: Gustav Mahler.

DON’T MISS:

Winter: Vienna hosts more than 300balls every year such as the ImperialBall, the Coffee Brewers' Ball, and theworld-famous Opera Ball. And it is notonly about the traditional waltz—contemporary sounds also have theirplace. A break at a cozy Viennese coffeehouse during a leisurely shopping trip inthe city is highly recommended, as isthe princely service at the imperial androyal (k.u.k.) court pastry shop Demel orat one of the many other formerpurveyors to the court. Enter the “shop& win” campaign in January andFebruary, and you might win first prize:a luxury trip to Vienna for two and10,000 Euros in spending money. Thereare also instant prizes for anyoneturning the wheel of fortune at theTourist Information Office.

Spring: A burst of colors and creationcan be found not only in Vienna’s parksand markets but also in fashionboutiques and modern galleries of thenew artists’ neighborhood aroundVienna’s Naschmarkt. Fans of imperialsplendor will love Schönbrunn Palace—Empress Sissi’s former summerresidence. Spring is perfect for exploringthis Baroque complex, which containsan enchanting park, the Palm House,the elevated Gloriette, and a beautifulzoo which dates back to 1752. Athletescan demonstrate their hiking, skating,and biking skills or participate in theVienna City Marathon.

Summer: The action in Vienna is on thestreets, during events at theMuseumsQuartier and on the citybeaches, cycling paths and recreationalareas along the Danube Canal. And, ofcourse, during Europe’s largest party,the Danube Island Festival at the end ofJune, and at the Music Film Festival onRathausplatz, one of the hot spots inJuly and August, where you can samplelocal and international cuisine and viewclassical music performances on a hugeoutdoor screen. Admirers of the oldmasters will be fascinated by thecollections in the Albertina and theMuseum of Fine Arts.

Autumn: During the “vienna, wine &design” campaign in October andNovember, an extensive programincluding a game with prizes—all about Viennese wines and youngViennese design—make autumn evenmore attractive. A hot tip: DuringBlickfang (literally: "eye catcher"), theMuseum for Applied Arts (MAK) turns intoa design department store for three days.

Starting in mid-November, the Magic ofAdvent in front of City Hall and manyother Christmas Markets offer deliciouspunch as well as arts and crafts. And onthe New Year’s Eve Path, the New Yearstarts exceptionally well.

Contact: Vienna Tourist Board1020 Vienna

Tel: +011 43 1 24 555Fax: +011 43 1 24 555-666

[email protected]


Castle Grafenegg Music Festival – Every year in August,audiences flock to hear performances by the London SymphonyOrchestra and the likes amid the beautiful setting of a centuries-oldcastle and adjacent park. www.grafenegg.at

Innsbruck Summer Festival – Historically informedperformances of Old Music are the focus of this festival in theTirolean capital. www.altemusik.at

Styriarte – Famed conductor Nikolaus Harnoncourt is the fatherof this festival which features performances of the ConcentusMusicus Wien, an ensemble performing Early Music on periodinstruments and the extraordinarily dynamic Chamber Orchestra ofEurope. www.styriarte.com

Continued on page 14

Austria’s Top 11 Music FesitvalsImmerse yourself in the magical atmosphere ofAustria’s great festivals

Music

PHOTOS: AUSTRIAN TOURIST OFFICE; GRAFENEGG

PALACE © PETER RIGAUD; BREGENZ FESTIVAL © ROBERT FORSTER

www.austria.info 13

Vienna Editor’s Pick: The famous Spanish Riding School in Vienna is the only institution in theworld that has cultivated classical equitation for over 430 years. Their evening performancesare a must-see. Alternatively, you can also visit their morning exercises, when riders put theLipizzan stallions through their paces.

www.srs.at

12 www.austria.info

Vienna Residence OrchestraMozart & Strauss ConcertOne of the best orchestras of Vienna’s music world will take you ona journey through time back to the days of Imperial Vienna. Theconcerts are held at beautiful historic locations such as the venerable Palais Auersperg.

DAILY • 6:30 PM • 8:15 PM

Auersperg PalaceAuerspergstrasse 1, 1080 WienPhone: +43 1 817 21 78Fax: +43 1 813 28 65E-Mail: [email protected]

Hotel am BrillantengrundOur hotel is located in a charming Biedermeier building in a quietresidential area of Vienna, only a short walk from the shopping district of the Mariahilfer Strasse and other major sights of the city.The little garden in our courtyard is the perfect place to havebreakfast or just relax after a city tour or business meeting.

Bed & Breakfast Prices: Winter Summer

Single room €69 to 156 €76 to 156Double room €79 to 200 €88 to 200

Contact Information:

Hotel am Brillantengrund***A-1070 Vienna, Bandgasse 4Phone: +43 1 523 3662 • Fax: +43 1 523 3662 83E-Mail: [email protected]


Castle Grafenegg Music Festival – Every year in August,audiences flock to hear performances by the London SymphonyOrchestra and the likes amid the beautiful setting of a centuries-oldcastle and adjacent park. www.grafenegg.at

Innsbruck Summer Festival – Historically informedperformances of Old Music are the focus of this festival in theTirolean capital. www.altemusik.at

Styriarte – Famed conductor Nikolaus Harnoncourt is the fatherof this festival which features performances of the ConcentusMusicus Wien, an ensemble performing Early Music on periodinstruments and the extraordinarily dynamic Chamber Orchestra ofEurope. www.styriarte.com

Continued on page 14

Austria’s Top 11 Music FesitvalsImmerse yourself in the magical atmosphere ofAustria’s great festivals

MusicPHOTOS: AUSTRIAN TOURIST OFFICE; GRAFENEGG

PALACE © PETER RIGAUD; BREGENZ FESTIVAL © ROBERT FORSTER

www.austria.info 13

Vienna Editor’s Pick: The famous Spanish Riding School in Vienna is the only institution in theworld that has cultivated classical equitation for over 430 years. Their evening performancesare a must-see. Alternatively, you can also visit their morning exercises, when riders put theLipizzan stallions through their paces.

www.srs.at

12 www.austria.info

Vienna Residence OrchestraMozart & Strauss ConcertOne of the best orchestras of Vienna’s music world will take you ona journey through time back to the days of Imperial Vienna. Theconcerts are held at beautiful historic locations such as the venerable Palais Auersperg.

DAILY • 6:30 PM • 8:15 PM

Auersperg PalaceAuerspergstrasse 1, 1080 WienPhone: +43 1 817 21 78Fax: +43 1 813 28 65E-Mail: [email protected]

Hotel am BrillantengrundOur hotel is located in a charming Biedermeier building in a quietresidential area of Vienna, only a short walk from the shopping district of the Mariahilfer Strasse and other major sights of the city.The little garden in our courtyard is the perfect place to havebreakfast or just relax after a city tour or business meeting.

Bed & Breakfast Prices: Winter Summer

Single room €69 to 156 €76 to 156Double room €79 to 200 €88 to 200


Hotel am Brillantengrund***A-1070 Vienna, Bandgasse 4Phone: +43 1 523 3662 • Fax: +43 1 523 3662 83E-Mail: [email protected]


Austria’s Top 11 Music Festivals Continued

Salzburg Festival – Featuring opera, concerts and drama, the Salzburg Festivalenjoys worldwide recognition as one of the most outstanding classical music eventstoday. www.salzburgfestival.at

Summer Festival at Lake Constance – Known as the “Bregenzer Festspiele”,this event draws crowds with opera and concert performances by the ViennaSymphonic Orchestra and the largest floating stage in the world.www.bregenzerfestspiele.com

Tirolean Festival Erl – With the Tirolean mountains as an impressive backdrop,the performances of Wagner’s oeuvre are truly awe-inspiring and receiveoutstanding reviews. www.tirolerfestspiele.at

Schubertiade Schwarzenberg – The annual meeting place for an internationalaudience that seeks an exceptional cultural experience: hearing music performedby outstanding artists in idyllic surroundings. www.schubertiade.at

Vienna Festival Weeks – Encompassing everything from symphonic concertsand opera to theater performances and exhibitions, this significant festival spicesup Vienna’s cultural life during the summer. www.festwochen.at

Operafestival St. Margarethen – An old Roman quarry is the setting for thisexciting summer festival in Burgenland. International stars and popular operasguarantee a spectacular experience. www.ofs.at

Mörbisch Festival on the Lake – The picturesque town of Mörbisch is thelocation of the world’s greatest operetta Festival. Once you have seen theimpressive open air stage you will be captivated. http://www.seefestspiele-moerbisch.at

Hadyn Festival – The works of Joseph Haydn are at the heart of the festival inEisenstadt, where Hayden was head of the court ensemble at the Esterhazy castle.www.haydnfestival.at

The Linz Klangwolke (Cloud of Sound) – The opening event for the BrucknerFestival in Linz is a spectacle of pioneering classical music performances andelectronic visualization. www.klangwolke.at

PHOTOS: TOURISM

US SALZBURG GM

BH; SALZBURGERLAND TOURISMUS GES.M.B.H.

www.austria.info 15

Music Editor’s Pick: For a special travel experience, consider a ride on the "Majestic ImperatorTrain de Luxe," a veritable palace on rails, built according to the original plans of the ImperialTrain from 1891. The European Imperial Train is the perfect way to travel between Austriancities, while the Imperial Dinner Train is perfect for gourmet excursions outside of Vienna.

www.imperialtrain.com

PHOTOS: AUSTRIAN TOURIST OFFICE; EDITOR’S PICK: IMPERIAL TRAIN

14 www.austria.info

SalzburgEditor’s Pick: If you plan on doing a lot of sightseeing, the Salzburg Card and theSalzburgerLand Card are great money savers: For a small fee, you get free publictransportation plus free access to major museums and attractions. The cards are availableat many hotels, ticket shops, and all of the local Tourist Information offices.

For more information, go to www.salzburg.info and www.salzburgerlandcard.com.

Music, Mountains, and More…Explore the wonders of Salzburg and the SalzburgerLand

The beauty of its landscape and outstandingcultural events are what make this province andits capital a visitor magnet second only to

Vienna. A region of mountains, charming Alpine lakes,and rolling hills, SalzburgerLand is located right in theheart of Austria, with Salzburg City only a short trainride away from both Munich and Vienna.

A walk through Salzburg CityA jewel of Baroque architecture, Salzburg City isnestled between the foothills of the Alps, where richsalt deposits made it an important and prosperoustrading site. Today, a walk through Salzburg City feelslike a walk back in time, thanks to its well-preservedOld Town and extensive pedestrian areas. Accents ofmodern architecture perfectly contrast the Baroquecityscape and give it a touch of cosmopolitan flair.

The majestic fortress Hohensalzburg, for example,which dates back to the Middle Ages, is perched ona mountain directly opposite of the Mönchsberg,where the renowned Museum of Modern Artoverlooks the entire city.

Salzburg is full of performing spaces for classicalmusic, and each day, at least one of them seems toresonate with the music of Mozart. Walk in Mozart’sfootsteps and visit his birthplace, see the remarkable

Baroque cathedral in which many of his works were firstperformed, or simply soak up the city’s atmosphere,which still conveys some of the spirit of his time.

Salzburg is also known around the world for itssophisticated cultural offerings with more than 4,000events throughout the year, most notably therenowned Salzburg Festival, the Mozart Week and theEaster and Whitsun Festivals.

SalzburgerLand – where the Soundof Music is still aliveMountains, lakes, rivers, forests, picturesque villages,and affluent towns characterize the province ofSalzburgerLand. Each region, from the foothills of theAlps to the Hohe Tauern National Park, is special in itsown way. Preserving and protecting this naturalbeauty is a great tradition in the SalzburgerLand. Thefarmers there have known for ages that they mustcare for the land, which is the basis of their existence.This is the reason why in all of Europe,SalzburgerLand has the highest number of farmerswho employ organic farming techniques.

In the vicinity of the city, discover the crystal clearlakes in Salzkammergut Lake District, the world’slargest ice caves, the salt mines, the Celtic town ofHallein, and the thermal springs in the Gastein Valley.

The beauty of Salzburg city and the surroundingcountryside has been captured in the acclaimedmotion picture “The Sound of Music” and specialtours take you to the movie’s different locations, suchas the Nonnberg Convent, the Mirabell Gardens, theSound of Music Gazebo in Hellbrunn. It is the perfectway to get a glimpse of the region’s culture and enjoythe breathtaking scenery.

TOURISMUS SALZBURG GMBHSalzburg InformationAuerspergstraße 6, A-5020 SalzburgTel. +011 43 662 88987 0Fax: +011 43 662 88987 [email protected] http://www.salzburg.info

SalzburgerLandTourismus Ges.m.b.H.Wiener Bundesstr. 23A-5300 Hallwang bei SalzburgTel. +011 43 662 6688 0Fax +011 43 662 6688 [email protected]


Art & Design

PHOTOS: 6) W

IEN PROD

UCTS / BACKHAUSEN INTERIOR TEXTILES; 7) ARS ELECTRONICA CENTER EXHIBITION

; DIE TITANEN;

ZEITGENO

SSEN (AT) SOURCE: RUBA.

www.austria.info 17

In Linz European Capital of Culture 2009, you’ll encounter theArs Electronica Center, or the “Museum of the Future,” as itis called. Fifty interactive exhibits demonstrate how electronictechnology produces moving, cutting-edge art.

Famous for its music and Baroque architecture, beautifulSalzburg also boasts an important collection of modern art,including works by Klimt and Kokoschka. In 2004, the Museumder Moderne expanded significantly. Perched atop theMönchsberg, the marble-clad building offers views of theSalzach Valley and is a unique setting for this vibrant new gallery.

Farther west, in Vorarlberg’s capital Bregenz, you’ll find oneof Europe’s premier museums of contemporary art, KunsthausBregenz. There, sunlight filters through glass-paneled ceilingsinto serene, polished-concrete chambers to illuminate worksby internationally renowned artists. A dialogue exists betweenthe paintings and the exhibition space, out of which hasgrown a truly unique experience of contemporary art.

Similarly, Austrian design is experiencing a veritable surge inpopularity. You’ll find magnificently designed wares in shopsthroughout the country, but be sure to visit the manufactoriestoo, where you can meet and watch the craftspeople at work.

Discover a wide range of ornamental products at Swarovski,the Tirolean manufacturer famous for its endlessly inventiveuse of crystal. Visit the Swarovski Crystal Worlds nearInnsbruck and immerse yourself in this sparkling world. Innearby Kufstein, a picturesque town near Innsbruck, watchRiedel glassblowers craft what Robert Parker in The WineAdvocate calls, “The finest glasses for both technical andhedonistic purposes.” Claus Riedel went down in history whenhe designed this mouthblown glass that captures the aromaof wine in a balloon-shaped bowl.

In Vienna you’ll find Wiener Werkstätte, founded in 1903 byJosef Hoffmann and Koloman Moser to develop and execute

designs on the guiding principles of elegance, precision, andfunction. The products of the Wiener Werkstätte—whethercouches, lamps or handbags—remain classics of moderndesign even today.

It is remarkable how many Austrian companies continue toproduce locally. The Austrian porcelain manufactory Augartenlooks back on a history of almost 300 years of producingtableware. Made in Vienna, this porcelain is famous for itsfiligree shapes and exquisite details. Vienna also producesmusical instruments of the highest quality. Devotees of theBösendorfer piano’s dark, rich, sound should tour its Viennasalon to play every model—from the awe-inspiring ImperialGrand to the dainty Upright. The production facility south ofthe city is open to visitors.

When it’s time to take a rest, sip on some Viennese coffeeand enjoy the sublime comfort of Austrian functional design.Viennese craftsman Michael Thonet’s bentwood chairs furnishmany of the country’s cafes and coffee houses, providingcomfort and a simple grace that prompted Le Corbusier toremark, “Never has anything been created more elegant andbetter in its conception, more precise in its execution, andmore excellently functional.”

Austria was not only setting the pace for style and design 100years ago; it still does so today, and this is reflected in theVIENNA DESIGN WEEK, where a vast variety of works bydomestic designers is on display. The event is held annually,with exhibitions, events, and discussions that attract morethan 10,000 visitors.

Austria offers so much in contemporary design and art; youcould spend a lifetime exploring. Learn more by visitingwww.austria.info/art and see what Austrian destinationshave to offer.

-| 1 Installation by Olafur Eliasson at the KUB

-| 2 Room designed by Matteo Thun at the Hotel Altstadt

-| 3 Egon Schiele at the Leopold Museum, Vienna

-| 4 Inside the Museum of Fine Arts, Vienna

-| 5 Hand-painted Augarten figurines

-| 6 High-quality upholstery fabrics by Backhausen are used all over the world

-| 7 Façade of the Ars Electronica Center in Linz

Art & Design

Art & DesignPass from the old masters to the postmodernists on a tour of Austria’s most importantmuseums and galleries.

The 2004 enlargement of the European Union placed Austria and its people at thecenter of the continent’s economic system and cultural scene, making thecountry one of the great contemporary art centers of the world. Everywhere you

go, you’ll find artists and craftspeople building a new lexicon upon the old. Easily andefficiently traversed by train, car, or foot, the famously beautiful cities and breathtakinglandscapes of Austria offer the traveler old-world charm and new-world excitement.

Starting in Vienna, you’ll experience a unique confluence of the old and new art worlds.The city boasts the greatest density of art museums and galleries in Austria. Checkinto a hotel and spend days viewing dozens of major collections all within ten minute’s

walking distance of one another. And be sure bring to your appetite. The museums andtheir award-winning restaurants feed body and soul alike. Be sure to parade from onegallery to the next in Vienna’s celebrated “Gallery Walkabout” in which several gallerieshost exhibitions on the same night.

When you’re ready for a beautiful trip into the country, follow the Danube a few milesnorth of Vienna and visit the Essl Museum, an impressive exhibition space designed byHeinz Tesar. Its 6,000 images constitute the most comprehensive collection of postwarAustrian paintings. After strolling through the museum, conclude your daytrip with a tourof Klosterneuburg. The neighboring grand monastery abounds in cultural treasures.

PHOTOS: 1) OLAFUR ELIASSON

, THE MEDIATED MOTION, 2001; 2) HOTEL ALTSTADT 3) EGO

N SCHIELE @ LEOPOLD

MUSEUM, W

IEN; 4) AND

5) AUSTRIAN TOURIST OFFICE

16 www.austria.info

Design Finds at Vienna’s Museum Shops• The MQ Shop at the MuseumsQuartier offers a wideselection of Viennese design pieces and original giftitems. www.mqw.at

• The shop at the Albertina offers postcards andprints with motifs from its famous graphics collectionas well as clothing, jewelry, and design products.www.albertina.at

• The Museum of Applied Arts presents highlights ofapplied art throughout history. Its MAK Design Shopcommissions objects from artists and supplies printson demand. www.makdesignshop.at

• The objects presented at the KunstHausWienMuseumShop were designed using only ecologicallyacceptable materials. www.kunsthauswien.com

1

2 3 4 5 6 7


Art & DesignPHOTOS: 6) W

IEN PROD

UCTS / BACKHAUSEN INTERIOR TEXTILES; 7) ARS ELECTRONICA CENTER EXHIBITION

; DIE TITANEN;

ZEITGENO

SSEN (AT) SOURCE: RUBA.

www.austria.info 17

In Linz European Capital of Culture 2009, you’ll encounter theArs Electronica Center, or the “Museum of the Future,” as itis called. Fifty interactive exhibits demonstrate how electronictechnology produces moving, cutting-edge art.

Famous for its music and Baroque architecture, beautifulSalzburg also boasts an important collection of modern art,including works by Klimt and Kokoschka. In 2004, the Museumder Moderne expanded significantly. Perched atop theMönchsberg, the marble-clad building offers views of theSalzach Valley and is a unique setting for this vibrant new gallery.

Farther west, in Vorarlberg’s capital Bregenz, you’ll find oneof Europe’s premier museums of contemporary art, KunsthausBregenz. There, sunlight filters through glass-paneled ceilingsinto serene, polished-concrete chambers to illuminate worksby internationally renowned artists. A dialogue exists betweenthe paintings and the exhibition space, out of which hasgrown a truly unique experience of contemporary art.

Similarly, Austrian design is experiencing a veritable surge inpopularity. You’ll find magnificently designed wares in shopsthroughout the country, but be sure to visit the manufactoriestoo, where you can meet and watch the craftspeople at work.

Discover a wide range of ornamental products at Swarovski,the Tirolean manufacturer famous for its endlessly inventiveuse of crystal. Visit the Swarovski Crystal Worlds nearInnsbruck and immerse yourself in this sparkling world. Innearby Kufstein, a picturesque town near Innsbruck, watchRiedel glassblowers craft what Robert Parker in The WineAdvocate calls, “The finest glasses for both technical andhedonistic purposes.” Claus Riedel went down in history whenhe designed this mouthblown glass that captures the aromaof wine in a balloon-shaped bowl.

In Vienna you’ll find Wiener Werkstätte, founded in 1903 byJosef Hoffmann and Koloman Moser to develop and execute

designs on the guiding principles of elegance, precision, andfunction. The products of the Wiener Werkstätte—whethercouches, lamps or handbags—remain classics of moderndesign even today.

It is remarkable how many Austrian companies continue toproduce locally. The Austrian porcelain manufactory Augartenlooks back on a history of almost 300 years of producingtableware. Made in Vienna, this porcelain is famous for itsfiligree shapes and exquisite details. Vienna also producesmusical instruments of the highest quality. Devotees of theBösendorfer piano’s dark, rich, sound should tour its Viennasalon to play every model—from the awe-inspiring ImperialGrand to the dainty Upright. The production facility south ofthe city is open to visitors.

When it’s time to take a rest, sip on some Viennese coffeeand enjoy the sublime comfort of Austrian functional design.Viennese craftsman Michael Thonet’s bentwood chairs furnishmany of the country’s cafes and coffee houses, providingcomfort and a simple grace that prompted Le Corbusier toremark, “Never has anything been created more elegant andbetter in its conception, more precise in its execution, andmore excellently functional.”

Austria was not only setting the pace for style and design 100years ago; it still does so today, and this is reflected in theVIENNA DESIGN WEEK, where a vast variety of works bydomestic designers is on display. The event is held annually,with exhibitions, events, and discussions that attract morethan 10,000 visitors.

Austria offers so much in contemporary design and art; youcould spend a lifetime exploring. Learn more by visitingwww.austria.info/art and see what Austrian destinationshave to offer.

-| 1 Installation by Olafur Eliasson at the KUB

-| 2 Room designed by Matteo Thun at the Hotel Altstadt

-| 3 Egon Schiele at the Leopold Museum, Vienna

-| 4 Inside the Museum of Fine Arts, Vienna

-| 5 Hand-painted Augarten figurines

-| 6 High-quality upholstery fabrics by Backhausen are used all over the world

-| 7 Façade of the Ars Electronica Center in Linz

Art & Design

Art & DesignPass from the old masters to the postmodernists on a tour of Austria’s most importantmuseums and galleries.

The 2004 enlargement of the European Union placed Austria and its people at thecenter of the continent’s economic system and cultural scene, making thecountry one of the great contemporary art centers of the world. Everywhere you

go, you’ll find artists and craftspeople building a new lexicon upon the old. Easily andefficiently traversed by train, car, or foot, the famously beautiful cities and breathtakinglandscapes of Austria offer the traveler old-world charm and new-world excitement.

Starting in Vienna, you’ll experience a unique confluence of the old and new art worlds.The city boasts the greatest density of art museums and galleries in Austria. Checkinto a hotel and spend days viewing dozens of major collections all within ten minute’s

walking distance of one another. And be sure bring to your appetite. The museums andtheir award-winning restaurants feed body and soul alike. Be sure to parade from onegallery to the next in Vienna’s celebrated “Gallery Walkabout” in which several gallerieshost exhibitions on the same night.

When you’re ready for a beautiful trip into the country, follow the Danube a few milesnorth of Vienna and visit the Essl Museum, an impressive exhibition space designed byHeinz Tesar. Its 6,000 images constitute the most comprehensive collection of postwarAustrian paintings. After strolling through the museum, conclude your daytrip with a tourof Klosterneuburg. The neighboring grand monastery abounds in cultural treasures.

PHOTOS: 1) OLAFUR ELIASSON

, THE MEDIATED MOTION, 2001; 2) HOTEL ALTSTADT 3) EGO

N SCHIELE @ LEOPOLD

MUSEUM, W

IEN; 4) AND

5) AUSTRIAN TOURIST OFFICE

16 www.austria.info

Design Finds at Vienna’s Museum Shops• The MQ Shop at the MuseumsQuartier offers a wideselection of Viennese design pieces and original giftitems. www.mqw.at

• The shop at the Albertina offers postcards andprints with motifs from its famous graphics collectionas well as clothing, jewelry, and design products.www.albertina.at

• The Museum of Applied Arts presents highlights ofapplied art throughout history. Its MAK Design Shopcommissions objects from artists and supplies printson demand. www.makdesignshop.at

• The objects presented at the KunstHausWienMuseumShop were designed using only ecologicallyacceptable materials. www.kunsthauswien.com

1

2 3 4 5 6 7


Modern Architecture

PHOTOS: 1) M

ETZLER KAESE MOLKE EGG

@ FOTO FELDER; 3) LOISIUM

/ROBERT HERBSI; 4) LINZ TOURISM; 6) GRAZ TOURISM; 2 + 5) AUSTRIAN TOURIST OFFICE

18 www.austria.info

The Austrian Tourist Office RecommendsUnique Travel Ideas at the

Austria Travel BoutiqueAustria offers many unforgettable vacation experiences. Discovera selected few in our Travel Boutique that go far beyond the ordinary. These selected travel programs will allow you to experience some of the best Austria has to offer and are operatedby some of our most trusted travel partners. With prices starting atUS$ 690, our selection also fits your budget.

• Walking & Hiking • Historic Cities & Towns• Wine & Gourmet • Biking in Austria

www.austria.info/bestof

PHOTOS: EDITOR’S PICK: AUSTRIAN TOURIST OFFICE

www.austria.info 19

Editor’s Pick: Getting around Austria is easy with the highly convenient public transportationsystem. A train ride from Vienna to Graz, for example, takes only two hours and thirtyminutes. And while you can relax in a comfortable seat, you can enjoy the beautifullandscape of the Semmering.

For train schedules and fares within Austria, go to www.oebb.at.

How about a New Passion?graz.You won’t find many cities with a southern feeland lots of sunshine that offers as much varietyin such a conveniently small area.

Modern architecture contrasts beautifully withthe charming alleys and squares of the medievalcity center. Around each corner you’ll discoverhidden lanes, picturesque courtyards and ornatefacades. This is why the core of the city hasbeen added to the UNESCO list of World CulturalHeritage Sites as “Central Europe’s bestpreserved city center”.

Apart from a fantastic blend of Renaissance,Gothic and Baroque buildings with onesexhibiting cutting edge architecture, such as thebubble-like structure housing a new art-exhibition space, you will also find that Grazoffers many outstanding culinary and culturalexperiences. Try some of the local delicacies,and make sure to include a visit to the wineregions around Graz to round out your stay. Butbe warned: a short, harmless fling with Graz canturn into a serious relationship. Because onceyou’ve fallen in love with Graz, you’ll come backagain and again.


Graz Tourist Information OfficeHerrengasse 168010 Graz / Austria

Tel: +011 43 316 8075 0Fax: +011 43 316 8075 [email protected]

www.visitgraz.com

A Short ArchitectureTour Through Austria

Austria’s major architectural attractions are an open invitation to travel backthrough the ages. The country is strewn with castles, palaces, and monasteries,silent witnesses to a colorful past. Architecture enthusiasts travel to Austria to

experience brilliant modern architecture in dramatic landscapes and historic settings.At the same time, Austria is a pioneer of ecological building. While the architecturalthemes may vary from province to province, these buildings all address the problemof relating to the natural surroundings and to the existing architecture.

In Vorarlberg (1), the country’s westernmost state, one finds a veritable Alpinelaboratory of new design and construction. The most conspicuous features ofcontemporary building here are the rational use of resources and a continuity thatgoes back directly to longheld traditions.

Given that Tirol is known for its hospitality, most of the exciting new buildings herecater to the needs of visitors. Highlights are Zaha Hadid’s Bergisel ski jump (2) andthe new Hungerburgbahn mountain railway in Innsbruck, the branches of theMPreis supermarket chain (which have garnered numerous architectural awards),and the Ötztal’s Aquadome, one of Tirol’s premiere spas.

A stroll through the Old Town of Krems can become a time warp to the MiddleAges, while the town’s “Kunsthalle” exhibition facility brings you right back to thepresent. Lower Austria’s most spectacular architectural gem is undoubtedly theLoisium (3), a sprawling multimedia wine museum with an adjoining designerhotel, the work of architect Steven Holl.

Upper Austria’s outstanding contemporary building is the Lentos Art Museum (4)beside the Danube in Linz, European Capital of Culture 2009. An incisive buildingwith clear-cut lines, the Lentos features a kind of larger-than-life 130-meter widebridge harboring a space for art that reflects the waters of the Danube.

In Vienna, the wealth of opulent public architecture testifies to the city’s erstwhilestatus as the capital of a vast empire. That it has mastered the leap into thetwenty-first century with aplomb is demonstrated by, for instance, Hans Hollein’sHaas Haus, a post-modernist commercial center facing St. Stephen’s Cathedral(5), the most venerable architectural monument in the city. Be sure to visit theMuseumsQuartier—once the Imperial Stables—which continues the debatebetween the proponents of traditional and innovative architecture.

South of Vienna lies the city of Graz (6), a renaissance jewel on the Mur River. Thoughnot as well known as Prague, it is every bit as enchanting as the Czech capital. Butvisit the Kunsthaus to see just how starkly modern architecture contrasts the

traditional cityscape. Its bubble-glass skin has earned it thenickname “Friendly Alien.”

For more information on art, architecture and design inAustria, go to www.austria.info/art.

1

32

4

6

5


Food & WineFood & Wine

When Modern Meets ClassicalFuturistic Wines in a Storybook Land

In 2009, Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate awarded an Austrian Blaufränkisch95 points—the varietal’s first-ever rating of “extraordinary.”

That the 2006 wine from Austria achieved this milestone is no surprise: thecountry’s distinctive red wines have been rocketing steadily up the charts for adecade—catching up to their well-regarded white counterparts. What issurprising is how Austria’s wine region—with its outstanding Rieslings, GrünerVeltliners, Zweigelts, and other unique varietals—continues to remain adeliciously best-kept secret.

Indeed, Austrian Wine Country is boundless and untrammeled—despite itsaccessibility. Burgenland—home to Blaufränkisch (earthy reds), Zweigelt (rich,gamy reds), and Trockenbeerenauslese (spine-tingling dessert wines)—lies onehour southeast of Vienna. Situated around Lake Neusiedl/Neusiedlersee(pronounced “noy-zeed-ler-zay”), Burgenland is lush, green, flat, and wonderfullyalive. Storks abound, nesting alongside steeples and pointed roofs.

Burgenland’s historic villages step straight out of a storybook, but a new horizonis emerging, too. It’s clear in the region’s finer restaurants, where compulsivelyfresh, local ingredients (i.e. delicate lake fish, fork-tender rabbit) and traditional

preparations undergo modernization—a foam here, a sprigof micro-greens there.

Change is evident in the landscape, too. Dramatic, starkmonoliths rise high above the green fields—marring theirstorybook simplicity. Head toward these modern marvels:they represent some of Burgenland’s best wineries andvinotheks (tasting rooms). Make an afternoon of it: go to avinothek, taste the day’s selections, pick out a bottle, andset up a picnic. Don’t forget your binoculars!

Vienna is no slouch when it comes to wine, either. Mozartand Klimt remain powerful draws to this great culturalcapital, but the city is fast-becoming a wine destination,filled with ultra-hip wine bars, cozy heurigen (family-runtaverns), and temples of Modern Austrian Cuisine. The mostfamous among these is Steirereck, and it demonstratesprecisely how well the region’s natural abundance—suchas a lean, juicy cut of Alpine ox—pairs with Austrianvarietals. Wine even stars in Vienna’s hotels, such as atHotel Rathaus Wein & Design, where each of thestreamlined boutique-style rooms is named after anAustrian winery.

Ninety minutes west of Vienna is a different wine regionentirely. Wachau and Kamp Valleys line the Danube. Likethe rice terraces of Asia, their terrain is steep, breathtaking,and vividly green. Rather than flatlands, here are tier upontier of grapevines—a dramatic backdrop for quaint villages,deep blue water, and the occasional castle rising into theclouds. Explore this scenery on bicycle or foot—or floatfrom Krems to Melk on a majestic riverboat.

A new generation of superstars have inherited the sceneryand craft, and their white wines are so lively that it’s safeto say they dance in the mouth. The most famous amongthem—Grüner Veltliner—are peppery enough to tickle yourtongue, ears, and throat. But overlooking the Riesling of thismineral-driven soil—characteristically puckering, tart, andinsistent—would be a crime.

The picture-book countryside is sprinkled with architecturalfeats. Designed by New York-based architect Steven Holl,the Loisium combines a luxury resort with an Aveda spa, avinothek for wines from nearby Kamptal, astoundingcheeses, and a multi-level, sensory museum. Sound, sight,smell, touch, and taste are all evoked in a tale that’s equalparts mystical, historical, and imaginative.

If Burgenland is flat and the Wachau steep, Styria—to thesouth of Vienna—is rolling green slopes dotted withwineries. Find a Buschenschanken (rural café) and order aplatter of charcuterie: then sit on a veranda and with a glassof Styrian Sauvignon Blanc.

To learn more about the regions, events, and winesthemselves, go to www.austria.info/wine

Jean Tang, a New York-based food writer, discovered theAustrian wine country in 2005, and fell in love. Ms. Tangalso writes for The New York Times, New York Magazine,and other publications. Read her work at jean-tang.com.

-| 1 Liszt Center Raiding

-| 2 Winemaker H. Schröck

-| 3 Loisium Cellar World

-| 4 Wiener Schnitzel

-| 5 Klosterneuburg Abbey

-| 6 Wine tavern

-| 7 Grape

-| 8 Lake Neusiedl


1 2

43 5 6 7 8

PHOTOS: 1 © ULRICH SCHW

ARZ; 2 © SABINE JACKSON; 3 © LOISIUM

/R. HERBST; 4 © AWMB/KOHL;

5 © JÜRGEN SKARWAN; 6 © AWMB / FABER; 7 © AWMB/ LUKAN; 8 © KRACHER WINERY

PHOTO: MAP © OEW

M


Nature Paradise


www.austria.info 23

Austrian lakes have drinking water-quality, a full 13 percentof farming is now organic, and many resorts introducedecologically responsible measures that ensure the protectionof Austria’s pristine environment.

Austria’s nature reserves are visitor magnets in which youcan ramble, cycle and explore. The majority of National Parksare located in sparsely populated areas and provide a habitatfor a vast profusion of indigenous flora and fauna. TheNational Parks’ unspoiled environment also benefits people insearch of quality rest and recreation.

One of the most notable parks is the Donau-Auen NationalPark between Vienna and Bratislava, one of the few remainingfloodplain landscapes in central Europe. This “greenwilderness“ is a delightful natural environment which youcan explore on foot or by boat and encounter more than 60species of fish, eagles, beavers and rare orchids.

Another highlight is the Hohe Tauern National Park. Thelargest National Park in central Europe covers territory in theprovinces of Carinthia, Salzburg and Tirol. With mightymountain peaks such as the Grossglockner (Austria’s highestpeak), vast glaciers and spectacular waterfalls, the HoheTauern National Park is a many-faceted natural wonder.Explore either one of 26 rambles on themes such as “life onan Alpine farm” and “on the trail of smugglers.”

Covering over 80% of the country, the Alps provide the idealbackdrop for a walking tour. Austria is a paradise for leisurelywalkers, and you will find more than 31,000 miles of trails foroutdoor enthusiasts of all proficiency levels. Let your senses takein all the different smells, sights and sounds as you wander alonghillsides splashed with the colors of wildflowers. Be sure to restyour legs once in a while and stop at one of the many mountainhuts to enjoy the cozy atmosphere, chat with the locals and tastesome of the local specialties.

Innsbruck, the capital of Tirol, is particularly charming with itsmedieval flair. Architectural highlights from past and presentcan be found at every corner. Its surrounding holiday villagesare a walker’s dream come true. Let a cable car whisk you upthe Patscherkofel Mountain and walk the popular Pine TreeTrail locally known as Zirbenweg, a 4-mile-long panoramapromenade in the midst of a nature preserve. Another optionis the “Almenweg”, an exciting path that starts off as a foresttrack and follows a level or gently ascending gradient betweenalpine meadows and pastures.

While the Alps are also a mecca for Mountain bikers, withTirol and Vorarlberg offering great trails of various difficultylevels, the gentle inclines of Upper Austria and Lower Austriaand the wide open landscapes around Lake Neusidel are theperfect location for leisurely bike trips both long or short.

Sunny Burgenland is great for excursions on asphalt trackssuch as the Red Wine Path, or the Nature Reserve Path; or atwo day trip for a round circuit of the Neusiedler See throughreed beds, past wine cellars and to idyllic little villages. Thewine district to the north of Vienna is also ideally suited toleisurely biking: unspoilt nature wherever you look, the cyclingpaths are all dotted with inviting places to stop for a break.Without significant gradients, the Wine Cycle Paths leadthrough picturesque vineyards, away from busy roads, tocastles, palaces, museums and romantic wine cellars.

All the while, you are never far from historic city centers,cultural events and gourmet restaurants, which makesAustria’s provinces the ideal location for family vacations andsophisticated outdoor adventures.

-| 1 Picturesque Hallstatt is a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site

-| 2 Relaxing under a tree

-| 3 Landscape near Guessing, Burgenland

-| 4 On a bicycle tour in Lermoos, Tirol

-| 5 Mountain spring: Austria is famous for its excellent drinking water

-| 6 Kaiser mountain range near Kufstein, Tirol

Nature Paradise

Alpine VistasRecharge Your Batteries Vacationing Amid Austria’s Famously Idyllic Landscapes

Swim in crystal clear lakes, enjoy a homemade meal in a cozy wine tavern in frontof sun-drenched vineyards, take a deep breath of fresh mountain air on top ofone of the majestic peaks of the Alps, or relax in a deck chair on board a Danube

sightseeing cruise and take in the view of hundreds of apricot trees in full bloom.

Austria’s landscapes are incredibly varied and the options are endless. It takes onlyseven hours to drive from the easternmost part of Austria to the western border withHungary, roughly the same time it takes one to get from New York City to Pittsburgh,Pennsylvania. Yet, in these seven hours, you drive through several climate zones, pass

wild, steppe like fields and rolling hills, marvel at the majestic peaks of the Alps andstretch your legs while walking along the even banks of Lake Constance.

And just like the open prairie and the Rockies shaped American culture and history,Austria’s varied landscape is an inextricable part of Austrian culture. Hence theprofound respect for the environment, deep appreciation of nature and generoushospitality that make an Austria vacation special. It is not an accident that manyfamilies have lived in a particular village or town for centuries, and hotels andguesthouses are run by the third or fourth generation of innkeepers.


22 www.austria.info

Ideas for Great Nature Experiences

• For Hikers and Outdoor EnthusiastsFree guided hikes are run by the famous Innsbruck AlpineSchool, which even provides hiking boots and a stylishrucksack. www.innsbruck.info

• Explore the Danube Region on Two WheelsThe Danube biking trail provides easy riverbank cycling.Always close to the mighty waters of the Danube, yourpath is dotted with castles, monasteries and picturesquevillages. www.donauradweg.at

• A Nature Paradise for GourmetsFollowing the Cheese Route through the Bregenzerwaldof Vorarlberg is the ideal way to explore this lovelyregion and its traditional—and excellent—cheeses.www.bregenzerwald.at

1

2 3 4 5 6


Nature ParadisePHOTOS: AUSTRIAN TOURIST OFFICE

www.austria.info 23

Austrian lakes have drinking water-quality, a full 13 percentof farming is now organic, and many resorts introducedecologically responsible measures that ensure the protectionof Austria’s pristine environment.

Austria’s nature reserves are visitor magnets in which youcan ramble, cycle and explore. The majority of National Parksare located in sparsely populated areas and provide a habitatfor a vast profusion of indigenous flora and fauna. TheNational Parks’ unspoiled environment also benefits people insearch of quality rest and recreation.

One of the most notable parks is the Donau-Auen NationalPark between Vienna and Bratislava, one of the few remainingfloodplain landscapes in central Europe. This “greenwilderness“ is a delightful natural environment which youcan explore on foot or by boat and encounter more than 60species of fish, eagles, beavers and rare orchids.

Another highlight is the Hohe Tauern National Park. Thelargest National Park in central Europe covers territory in theprovinces of Carinthia, Salzburg and Tirol. With mightymountain peaks such as the Grossglockner (Austria’s highestpeak), vast glaciers and spectacular waterfalls, the HoheTauern National Park is a many-faceted natural wonder.Explore either one of 26 rambles on themes such as “life onan Alpine farm” and “on the trail of smugglers.”

Covering over 80% of the country, the Alps provide the idealbackdrop for a walking tour. Austria is a paradise for leisurelywalkers, and you will find more than 31,000 miles of trails foroutdoor enthusiasts of all proficiency levels. Let your senses takein all the different smells, sights and sounds as you wander alonghillsides splashed with the colors of wildflowers. Be sure to restyour legs once in a while and stop at one of the many mountainhuts to enjoy the cozy atmosphere, chat with the locals and tastesome of the local specialties.

Innsbruck, the capital of Tirol, is particularly charming with itsmedieval flair. Architectural highlights from past and presentcan be found at every corner. Its surrounding holiday villagesare a walker’s dream come true. Let a cable car whisk you upthe Patscherkofel Mountain and walk the popular Pine TreeTrail locally known as Zirbenweg, a 4-mile-long panoramapromenade in the midst of a nature preserve. Another optionis the “Almenweg”, an exciting path that starts off as a foresttrack and follows a level or gently ascending gradient betweenalpine meadows and pastures.

While the Alps are also a mecca for Mountain bikers, withTirol and Vorarlberg offering great trails of various difficultylevels, the gentle inclines of Upper Austria and Lower Austriaand the wide open landscapes around Lake Neusidel are theperfect location for leisurely bike trips both long or short.

Sunny Burgenland is great for excursions on asphalt trackssuch as the Red Wine Path, or the Nature Reserve Path; or atwo day trip for a round circuit of the Neusiedler See throughreed beds, past wine cellars and to idyllic little villages. Thewine district to the north of Vienna is also ideally suited toleisurely biking: unspoilt nature wherever you look, the cyclingpaths are all dotted with inviting places to stop for a break.Without significant gradients, the Wine Cycle Paths leadthrough picturesque vineyards, away from busy roads, tocastles, palaces, museums and romantic wine cellars.

All the while, you are never far from historic city centers,cultural events and gourmet restaurants, which makesAustria’s provinces the ideal location for family vacations andsophisticated outdoor adventures.

-| 1 Picturesque Hallstatt is a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site

-| 2 Relaxing under a tree

-| 3 Landscape near Guessing, Burgenland

-| 4 On a bicycle tour in Lermoos, Tirol

-| 5 Mountain spring: Austria is famous for its excellent drinking water

-| 6 Kaiser mountain range near Kufstein, Tirol

Nature Paradise

Alpine VistasRecharge Your Batteries Vacationing Amid Austria’s Famously Idyllic Landscapes

Swim in crystal clear lakes, enjoy a homemade meal in a cozy wine tavern in frontof sun-drenched vineyards, take a deep breath of fresh mountain air on top ofone of the majestic peaks of the Alps, or relax in a deck chair on board a Danube

sightseeing cruise and take in the view of hundreds of apricot trees in full bloom.

Austria’s landscapes are incredibly varied and the options are endless. It takes onlyseven hours to drive from the easternmost part of Austria to the western border withHungary, roughly the same time it takes one to get from New York City to Pittsburgh,Pennsylvania. Yet, in these seven hours, you drive through several climate zones, pass

wild, steppe like fields and rolling hills, marvel at the majestic peaks of the Alps andstretch your legs while walking along the even banks of Lake Constance.

And just like the open prairie and the Rockies shaped American culture and history,Austria’s varied landscape is an inextricable part of Austrian culture. Hence theprofound respect for the environment, deep appreciation of nature and generoushospitality that make an Austria vacation special. It is not an accident that manyfamilies have lived in a particular village or town for centuries, and hotels andguesthouses are run by the third or fourth generation of innkeepers.


22 www.austria.info

Ideas for Great Nature Experiences

• For Hikers and Outdoor EnthusiastsFree guided hikes are run by the famous Innsbruck AlpineSchool, which even provides hiking boots and a stylishrucksack. www.innsbruck.info

• Explore the Danube Region on Two WheelsThe Danube biking trail provides easy riverbank cycling.Always close to the mighty waters of the Danube, yourpath is dotted with castles, monasteries and picturesquevillages. www.donauradweg.at

• A Nature Paradise for GourmetsFollowing the Cheese Route through the Bregenzerwaldof Vorarlberg is the ideal way to explore this lovelyregion and its traditional—and excellent—cheeses.www.bregenzerwald.at

1

2 3 4 5 6


Arlberg

PHOTOS: HOW

TO GET THERE: TOURIST OFFICE

www.austria.info 25

Tours Editor’s Pick: If you want to enjoy fresh mountain air and the fantastic views over Austria’s peaks,but don’t feel like skiing or hiking, simply take the cable car or chair lifts to get up and down themountain. Winter and summer, you can relax in a lounge chair on the terrace of one of the cozymountain huts, bask in the warm midday sun, and enjoy excellent food and refreshments.

PHOTOS: EDITOR’S PICK: TOURISM

ASSOCIATION

SAALBACH HINTERGLEM

M

24 www.austria.info

The Stars of the ArlbergMore than 100 years ago, the Arlberg made history as the cradle of Alpine skiing. Ever since, its five charming villages have impressed many a visitor with their individual characters: luxurious Lech, sophisticated Zürs, cozyStuben, exclusive St. Christoph, and cosmopolitan St. Anton.

The Cradle of Skiing

The Arlberg is undoubtedly one of the best skiing

areas worldwide. If there were a “walk of fame” for

ski regions, the star for the Arlberg would most

certainly have impressive dimensions. Inspiring

views over majestic mountain ranges, a seemingly

endless galaxy of glorious pistes, 85 cable cars and

chairlifts, and 280 kilometers of marked runs make

for delightful adventures. In addition, powder-snow

enthusiasts can look forward to 180 kilometers of

off-piste runs. No wonder that free riders view the

Arlberg as the European standard for backcountry

skiing! Between 4,200 feet and 9,200 feet above sea

level, the winter season lasts from the end of

November until the beginning of May, and excellent

snow conditions are guaranteed!

The Arlberg Gene

The Arlberg gene must be the reason for the great

success of the region in international winter-sports

competitions. Its effect: To give one’s utmost, not only

when it comes to skiing. This urge has inspired skiing

professionals from the pioneer of modern skiing

Hannes Schneider, to the legendary skier Karl

Schranz and Olympic champion Patrick Ortlieb. The

same driving force also inspires to achieve new

heights in hospitality and service. The Arlberg region

delights with an exceptional concentration of four-

and five-star hotels and award-winning restaurants.

Despite the rich diversity of the five communities,

they all have in common an uncompromising

commitment to exclusivity, which makes the cradle

of Alpine skiing a legend even in our times.

Arlberg Cuisine

The Arlberg has the highest density of Gault Millau

toques in Europe. However, visitors to the chic ski

region not only appreciate the high quality of

gastronomy when it comes to top-class and star

restaurants, but also the excellent standard of the ski

huts, après-ski clubs, and snack bars.

Lech Zürs Tourismus GmbH

A-6764 Lech am ArlbergPhone: +011 43 5583 2161 0Fax: +011 43 5583 3155

[email protected]

Tourismusbüro Stuben

A-6762 Stuben am ArlbergPhone: +011 43 5582 399Fax: +011 43 5582 3994

[email protected]

TourismusverbandSt. Anton/St. ChristophA-6580 St. Anton am ArlbergPhone: +011 43 5446 22690Fax: +011 43 5446 2532

[email protected] www.stantonamarlberg.com

How to Get There: Connecting to the Arlberg is easy. Besides excellent public transportationoptions (www.oebb.at), there is the Arlberg Express. During the winter season, the companyoffers a shuttle service that takes you from the international airport in Zurich, Switzerland, directlyto all Arlberg resorts.

www.arlbergexpress.com

Hotel Zuerserhof *****Right next to the ski slopes near the exclusive villageof Zürs, our hotel offers elegant rooms and suites withbeautiful views of the breathtaking mountainlandscape. Numerous well-being facilities andexcellent cuisine make both winter sports fans andthose looking for relaxation feel at home.

Familie Skardarasy A-6763 Zürs am ArlbergÖsterreich – AustriaTel. +011 43 5583 / 2513 0Fax: +011 43 5583 / 3165Email: [email protected]

Exquisite Austria Experiences with

Book your Austria Vacation with

Herzerl ToursA Taste of ViennaA hands-on culinary tour for gourmetsThe Sound of Austrian MusicMust-see attractions for classical music loversWine Tasting in AustriaWalking/bus tours in Austria’s wine country.

Group Tours/Mini Groups/FIT

Susanne ServinTel: +800 684 8488 • Fax: +914 771 5844Email: [email protected] www.herzerltours.com

Patrician Journeys• Music Tours featuring Mozart, Haydn and Strauss• Custom Designed Museum Experiences• Cuisine & Wine• Family & Small Group Holidays• Honeymoons & Vow Renewals• Charming Romantic Villages off the Beaten Path• Imperial Cities• 4* and 5* Properties or Family Owned Country Hotels• Abbeys, Monasteries & Shrines

Patrician Journeys, Inc.Austrian Certified Travel SpecialistsTel: +800 344 1443 Fax: +973 992 9804Email: [email protected]


ArlbergPHOTOS: HOW

TO GET THERE: TOURIST OFFICE

www.austria.info 25

Tours Editor’s Pick: If you want to enjoy fresh mountain air and the fantastic views over Austria’s peaks,but don’t feel like skiing or hiking, simply take the cable car or chair lifts to get up and down themountain. Winter and summer, you can relax in a lounge chair on the terrace of one of the cozymountain huts, bask in the warm midday sun, and enjoy excellent food and refreshments.

PHOTOS: EDITOR’S PICK: TOURISM

ASSOCIATION

SAALBACH HINTERGLEM

M

24 www.austria.info

The Stars of the ArlbergMore than 100 years ago, the Arlberg made history as the cradle of Alpine skiing. Ever since, its five charming villages have impressed many a visitor with their individual characters: luxurious Lech, sophisticated Zürs, cozyStuben, exclusive St. Christoph, and cosmopolitan St. Anton.

The Cradle of Skiing

The Arlberg is undoubtedly one of the best skiing

areas worldwide. If there were a “walk of fame” for

ski regions, the star for the Arlberg would most

certainly have impressive dimensions. Inspiring

views over majestic mountain ranges, a seemingly

endless galaxy of glorious pistes, 85 cable cars and

chairlifts, and 280 kilometers of marked runs make

for delightful adventures. In addition, powder-snow

enthusiasts can look forward to 180 kilometers of

off-piste runs. No wonder that free riders view the

Arlberg as the European standard for backcountry

skiing! Between 4,200 feet and 9,200 feet above sea

level, the winter season lasts from the end of

November until the beginning of May, and excellent

snow conditions are guaranteed!

The Arlberg Gene

The Arlberg gene must be the reason for the great

success of the region in international winter-sports

competitions. Its effect: To give one’s utmost, not only

when it comes to skiing. This urge has inspired skiing

professionals from the pioneer of modern skiing

Hannes Schneider, to the legendary skier Karl

Schranz and Olympic champion Patrick Ortlieb. The

same driving force also inspires to achieve new

heights in hospitality and service. The Arlberg region

delights with an exceptional concentration of four-

and five-star hotels and award-winning restaurants.

Despite the rich diversity of the five communities,

they all have in common an uncompromising

commitment to exclusivity, which makes the cradle

of Alpine skiing a legend even in our times.

Arlberg Cuisine

The Arlberg has the highest density of Gault Millau

toques in Europe. However, visitors to the chic ski

region not only appreciate the high quality of

gastronomy when it comes to top-class and star

restaurants, but also the excellent standard of the ski

huts, après-ski clubs, and snack bars.

Lech Zürs Tourismus GmbH

A-6764 Lech am ArlbergPhone: +011 43 5583 2161 0Fax: +011 43 5583 3155

[email protected]

Tourismusbüro Stuben

A-6762 Stuben am ArlbergPhone: +011 43 5582 399Fax: +011 43 5582 3994

[email protected]

TourismusverbandSt. Anton/St. ChristophA-6580 St. Anton am ArlbergPhone: +011 43 5446 22690Fax: +011 43 5446 2532

[email protected] www.stantonamarlberg.com

How to Get There: Connecting to the Arlberg is easy. Besides excellent public transportationoptions (www.oebb.at), there is the Arlberg Express. During the winter season, the companyoffers a shuttle service that takes you from the international airport in Zurich, Switzerland, directlyto all Arlberg resorts.

www.arlbergexpress.com

Hotel Zuerserhof *****Right next to the ski slopes near the exclusive villageof Zürs, our hotel offers elegant rooms and suites withbeautiful views of the breathtaking mountainlandscape. Numerous well-being facilities andexcellent cuisine make both winter sports fans andthose looking for relaxation feel at home.

Familie Skardarasy A-6763 Zürs am ArlbergÖsterreich – AustriaTel. +011 43 5583 / 2513 0Fax: +011 43 5583 / 3165Email: [email protected]

Exquisite Austria Experiences with

Book your Austria Vacation with

Herzerl ToursA Taste of ViennaA hands-on culinary tour for gourmetsThe Sound of Austrian MusicMust-see attractions for classical music loversWine Tasting in AustriaWalking/bus tours in Austria’s wine country.

Group Tours/Mini Groups/FIT

Susanne ServinTel: +800 684 8488 • Fax: +914 771 5844Email: [email protected] www.herzerltours.com

Patrician Journeys• Music Tours featuring Mozart, Haydn and Strauss• Custom Designed Museum Experiences• Cuisine & Wine• Family & Small Group Holidays• Honeymoons & Vow Renewals• Charming Romantic Villages off the Beaten Path• Imperial Cities• 4* and 5* Properties or Family Owned Country Hotels• Abbeys, Monasteries & Shrines

Patrician Journeys, Inc.Austrian Certified Travel SpecialistsTel: +800 344 1443 Fax: +973 992 9804Email: [email protected]


Winter

CREDITS

www.austria.info 27

past the wooden benches ferrying plates of dried meats,venison carpaccio, all kinds of dumplings, plates of regionalcheeses and the occasional glass of wine or beer. Ask Austrianswhat the best part of the ski day was, and they point to lunchwith their friends and family. The simple enjoyments of life.

This camaraderie built around skiing is part of the nationalculture. A string of picturesque villages tucked into woodedvalleys links the skiing areas of western Austria. There,children aspire to be ski champions, not football stars. Theannual race of the Hahnenkamm in the fashionable town ofKitzbühel is the Super Bowl of ski racing, and fans fromthroughout Europe turn the long weekend into one of theworld’s great street parties. High above the town, however,90 miles of groomed trails across valleys and passes beckon,a seemingly endless terrain of white landscapes andmountain peaks.

At the bigger areas that interconnect numerous towns, skiingbecomes an adventure stretching across vast networks of liftsthat lead to distant villages. In Europe, skiing can feel liketreks of discovery. Plan where you want to go in the morning,then ski to distant villages, stopping along the way for a hotchocolate or even a schnapps. If hidden powder is what youseek, hire a mountain guide for the day—at more accessibleprices than you’d pay on this side of the Atlantic—and he’lllead you into secret stashes far from the groomers, perhapsstill untracked days after the last snowfall.

There are about 700 ski areas in Austria, but foreign visitorsdo best concentrating on the larger, more famous resorts ofthe provinces Vorarlberg, Tirol and Salzburg. Transportationconnections are easy and everything is close, no more than a

few hours between them by comfortable, efficient trains.Everybody in the service industry invariably speaks English, andit’s easy to get the right advice on traveling from here to there.

For lodging, pick a hotel at the center of the town you choose,or at a gasthaus—an Austrian b&b. Free bus systems pick upskiers and carry them to any of a variety of lifts from whichthey can access different mountains. Soon you are talkingwith others on the bus, exchanging information, feeling a partof local knowledge. The towns are fun to walk through anddiscover, the shopping is good, and the people are alwaysfriendly. There are snowshoe trails, sleigh rides, cross-countryskiing and an array of snow toys—from snow scooters andbikes to skateboards and pontoons—that are unknown in ourmore litigious North America.

If the beauty of the Alps and the gemütlich pleasures of anAlpine holiday are not tempting enough to seal the deal,consider exploring Vienna, one of Europe’s great capitals,where during the mid winter months you can get tickets toone of the fairy-tale-like Viennese balls, where everyonedances the waltz. Or spend a few days in the beautifulBaroque city of Salzburg, Mozart’s birthplace. Each is amuseum in itself, with glorious churches, palaces, pricelessart galleries and traditional coffee houses.

Roger Toll, former editor of Snow Country magazine and atravel writer and photographer, is a frequent visitor to Austria.www.rogertoll.com

-| 1 Snow shoe hikes in untouched landscapes

-| 2 A view of the snow covered church steeples of Salzburg City

-| 3 Rustic mountain huts are the perfect place to take a break from skiing

-| 4 A fun winter adventure: toboganning

-| 5 Enjoy a sleigh ride in Ramsau am Dachstein, Styria

-| 6 Quaint Kitzbühel is a paradise for skiers

-| 7 Breathtaking views from the Top Mountain Star in the Oetztal

Winter

Winter MagicBy Roger Toll

The jagged spine of the Alps soars skyward from the heart of Austria just as itsinks deep into its national culture. This is where modern skiing was born andfrom where America’s first generation of ski instructors emerged to teach the

New World the Arlberg technique, named for a region of Austria whose towns carrysuch legendary names as St. Anton, St. Christoph, Zürs, and Lech.

People have been navigating the peaks and deep valleys of the Austrian Alps formillennia. The carved-wood balconies and pastel-painted motifs on village chalets arethe inspiration behind many American ski resorts’ replications of that original Alpinecharm. Under five feet of fresh snow, Austria’s mountain towns turn magical. A horse-

drawn sleigh glides by silently but for the bells on the horse’s yoke. The warm interiorsof restaurants gleam through frosted windows.

They call it Gemütlichkeit, this friendly twinkle in the eye, the warm greeting, the offerof refreshments when you stop by an old chalet high on a mountain slope to askdirections to a lift in the morning light.

You return for lunch, when Gemütlichkeit is in full flower. It’s as if skiing is prelude tothe real fun: the warmth of friendship, laughter, a cozy meal on a sunny terrace, belowsoaring peaks, rocky arêtes, and fields of snow that surround you. Waiters squeeze

CREDITS

26 www.austria.info

Our Top Winter Resorts• The ArlbergFor excellent skiing visit upscale Lech and Zürs, or St.Anton with its bustling nightlife and international flair.www.arlberg.net

• InnsbruckThis historic town is the winter destination for overseastravelers. You can’t beat the value and easy access to skislopes and sightseeing highlights. www.innsbruck.info

• Ötztal ValleyThe village of Obergurgl at the very end of Ötztal is avacation paradise for families, while Sölden has two glacierski areas for year-round winter fun. www.oetztal.com

• KitzbühelA picture perfect town center and the world’s mostfamous ski race define this center of Alpine skiing.www.kitzbuehel.com

1

2 3 4 5 6 7


WinterCREDITS

www.austria.info 27

past the wooden benches ferrying plates of dried meats,venison carpaccio, all kinds of dumplings, plates of regionalcheeses and the occasional glass of wine or beer. Ask Austrianswhat the best part of the ski day was, and they point to lunchwith their friends and family. The simple enjoyments of life.

This camaraderie built around skiing is part of the nationalculture. A string of picturesque villages tucked into woodedvalleys links the skiing areas of western Austria. There,children aspire to be ski champions, not football stars. Theannual race of the Hahnenkamm in the fashionable town ofKitzbühel is the Super Bowl of ski racing, and fans fromthroughout Europe turn the long weekend into one of theworld’s great street parties. High above the town, however,90 miles of groomed trails across valleys and passes beckon,a seemingly endless terrain of white landscapes andmountain peaks.

At the bigger areas that interconnect numerous towns, skiingbecomes an adventure stretching across vast networks of liftsthat lead to distant villages. In Europe, skiing can feel liketreks of discovery. Plan where you want to go in the morning,then ski to distant villages, stopping along the way for a hotchocolate or even a schnapps. If hidden powder is what youseek, hire a mountain guide for the day—at more accessibleprices than you’d pay on this side of the Atlantic—and he’lllead you into secret stashes far from the groomers, perhapsstill untracked days after the last snowfall.

There are about 700 ski areas in Austria, but foreign visitorsdo best concentrating on the larger, more famous resorts ofthe provinces Vorarlberg, Tirol and Salzburg. Transportationconnections are easy and everything is close, no more than a

few hours between them by comfortable, efficient trains.Everybody in the service industry invariably speaks English, andit’s easy to get the right advice on traveling from here to there.

For lodging, pick a hotel at the center of the town you choose,or at a gasthaus—an Austrian b&b. Free bus systems pick upskiers and carry them to any of a variety of lifts from whichthey can access different mountains. Soon you are talkingwith others on the bus, exchanging information, feeling a partof local knowledge. The towns are fun to walk through anddiscover, the shopping is good, and the people are alwaysfriendly. There are snowshoe trails, sleigh rides, cross-countryskiing and an array of snow toys—from snow scooters andbikes to skateboards and pontoons—that are unknown in ourmore litigious North America.

If the beauty of the Alps and the gemütlich pleasures of anAlpine holiday are not tempting enough to seal the deal,consider exploring Vienna, one of Europe’s great capitals,where during the mid winter months you can get tickets toone of the fairy-tale-like Viennese balls, where everyonedances the waltz. Or spend a few days in the beautifulBaroque city of Salzburg, Mozart’s birthplace. Each is amuseum in itself, with glorious churches, palaces, pricelessart galleries and traditional coffee houses.

Roger Toll, former editor of Snow Country magazine and atravel writer and photographer, is a frequent visitor to Austria.www.rogertoll.com

-| 1 Snow shoe hikes in untouched landscapes

-| 2 A view of the snow covered church steeples of Salzburg City

-| 3 Rustic mountain huts are the perfect place to take a break from skiing

-| 4 A fun winter adventure: toboganning

-| 5 Enjoy a sleigh ride in Ramsau am Dachstein, Styria

-| 6 Quaint Kitzbühel is a paradise for skiers

-| 7 Breathtaking views from the Top Mountain Star in the Oetztal

Winter

Winter MagicBy Roger Toll

The jagged spine of the Alps soars skyward from the heart of Austria just as itsinks deep into its national culture. This is where modern skiing was born andfrom where America’s first generation of ski instructors emerged to teach the

New World the Arlberg technique, named for a region of Austria whose towns carrysuch legendary names as St. Anton, St. Christoph, Zürs, and Lech.

People have been navigating the peaks and deep valleys of the Austrian Alps formillennia. The carved-wood balconies and pastel-painted motifs on village chalets arethe inspiration behind many American ski resorts’ replications of that original Alpinecharm. Under five feet of fresh snow, Austria’s mountain towns turn magical. A horse-

drawn sleigh glides by silently but for the bells on the horse’s yoke. The warm interiorsof restaurants gleam through frosted windows.

They call it Gemütlichkeit, this friendly twinkle in the eye, the warm greeting, the offerof refreshments when you stop by an old chalet high on a mountain slope to askdirections to a lift in the morning light.

You return for lunch, when Gemütlichkeit is in full flower. It’s as if skiing is prelude tothe real fun: the warmth of friendship, laughter, a cozy meal on a sunny terrace, belowsoaring peaks, rocky arêtes, and fields of snow that surround you. Waiters squeeze

CREDITS

26 www.austria.info

Our Top Winter Resorts• The ArlbergFor excellent skiing visit upscale Lech and Zürs, or St.Anton with its bustling nightlife and international flair.www.arlberg.net

• InnsbruckThis historic town is the winter destination for overseastravelers. You can’t beat the value and easy access to skislopes and sightseeing highlights. www.innsbruck.info

• Ötztal ValleyThe village of Obergurgl at the very end of Ötztal is avacation paradise for families, while Sölden has two glacierski areas for year-round winter fun. www.oetztal.com

• KitzbühelA picture perfect town center and the world’s mostfamous ski race define this center of Alpine skiing.www.kitzbuehel.com

1

2 3 4 5 6 7


Event Calendar

PHOTOS: AUSTRIAN TOURIST OFFICE; NEW

YEAR’S EVE @ WIENTOURISM

US / GERHARD WEINKIRN ; FLOATING STAGE / BREGENZ FESTIVAL; GROSSER SAAL WIENER KONZERTHAUS / HERBERT SCHWINGENSCHLOEGL; HAYDN

SAAL ESTERHAZY PALACE / M

ANFRED HORVATH; HAYDN

PHILHARMON

IE / BERNHARD WOLFF

www.austria.info 29

Winter

PHOTOS: AUSTRIAN TOURIST OFFICE, INN

SBRUCK TOURIST OFFICE, TOURISM

US SALZBURG GM

BH, LINZ TOURISMUS

28 www.austria.info

During the four weeks leading up to Christmas Eve, Christmas Markets spring up in every town, big and small, all over the country. They are an important part of

the longstanding traditions observed during the Advent season and contribute to the almost tangible aura of expectation that lies over the land. Emanating a warm

and cozy atmosphere, these markets offer all kinds of handicrafts and Christmas decorations: handmade toys and local art, dolls and marionettes, spice bouquets,

candles, ceramics, crèches and crèche figurines. Mulled wine and delicious foods draw crowds, and many Christmas Markets become a gathering spot where

people meet to chat and enjoy the festive mood. Here is a short list of the most popular markets across Austria:

• VIENNA – "The Magic of Advent"The Christmas Market held in front of the City Hall canbe traced back to the year 1298. Today, 140 stallsoffer a variety of seasonal food and drink as well ashandicrafts and Christmas decorations. For children,there is even a Christmas workshop, where they canmake trinkets and bake cookies.www.christkindlmarkt.at

• VIENNA – Schönbrunn Christmas MarketVienna’s most scenic and cozy Christmas Market isheld directly in front of Schönbrunn Palace. With dailyconcerts, the scent of mulled wine and gingerbread inthe air, and the beautiful Christmas tree to admire, youcan’t help being in a festive mood.www.weihnachtsmarkt.co.at

• Christmas in SalzburgThe romantic Christmas Market on Cathedral Squareright in the heart of Salzburg dates back to the 15thcentury. The tree vendors occupy the Residenzplatzon the side of the huge Baroque building. Several folkgroups perform traditional Salzburg Christmas carols,all designed to conjure the true Christmas spirit. www.christkindlmarkt.co.at

• Salzburg – Hellbrunner Advent MagicOne of the most perfect locations for a traditionalChristmas Market is the charming Hellbrunn Castlenear Salzburg. Come to soak up the fairy-taleatmosphere, shop for local handicrafts, and listen totraditional music while sipping a cup of specialChristmas coffee. www.hellbrunneradventzauber.at

• Innsbruck Christmas MarketsThe medieval square in front of the Golden Roof istransformed into a traditional Austrian ChristmasMarket, where you can sample Tirolean fare and buyChristmas presents. In fact, the entire town center isso beautifully decorated, it seems like one bigChristmas Market. The snow-capped mountains in thebackground provide the perfect seasonal atmosphere.www.christkindlmarkt.cc/

• GRAZ Advent MarketsA romantic tour is the best way to experience themagical atmosphere of the various Christmas Marketsin Graz. Nestled between medieval buildings or spreadout right in front of the festively adorned City Hall, thevarious stalls beckon with glittering trinkets, localhandicrafts, and delicious foods.www.graztourismus.at

• LINZThe Christmas Markets in Linz are held on theBaroque main square and in the Volksgarten. The LinzCity Express takes you from one market to the next, soyou can enjoy typical arts and crafts, hot punch, andperformances by brass orchestras and choirs withouthaving to walk far. Linz also features a specialChristmas and crèche exhibition and workshops,where you can create your own Christmas presents.www.linz.at

• Rattenberger AdventA medieval city with only 439 inhabitants and coveringan area of 11 hectares, Rattenberg is the perfectbackdrop for an authentic Advent experience. Be sureto check your calendar, Austria’s smallest city holdsits lovely Christmas Market only on certain weekendsin December! www.rattenberg.at

• Mariazell – Advent AustriaFor centuries, Mariazell has been a spiritual center andfavorite destination of pilgrims and vacationers from allover the world. Against the picturesque backdrop ofthe basilica, in the midst of the wintry mountains ofthe Mariazell region, it is the magic and tranquility ofAdvent that come to the fore. Every weekend inDecember, authentic Christmas customs and regionaldelicacies delight adults and children alike.www.advent-austria.at

Christmas Markets Yearly Event HighlightsIf you want to know what not to miss while you are in Austria, we have compiled a list of the country’s most notable events throughout the year. People have beenknown to travel across the Atlantic for these events alone. . . .

JANUARY______________________________Mozart Week, Salzburg Every year around Mozart’sbirthday on January 27, Salzburg honors its mostbeloved son with a series of performances featuringworld-renowned artists.Hahnenkamm Race, Kitzbühel The HahnenkammDownhill Race is the unofficial highlight of thechampionship skiing season. Daredevil skiers excel onthe slopes, and Kitzbühel is party central for days.Resonanzen in the Konzerthaus, Vienna Vienna’sfestival of ancient music in the Konzerthaus featurescompositions ranging from the Middle Ages to theBaroque period.

FEBRUARY_______________________________Opera Ball, Vienna The Vienna State Opera is thevenerable venue for the top social event of Vienna’s Ball season.

MARCH_________________________________Easter Festivals in Vienna, Salzburg and InnsbruckThe very popular Easter Festivals give new impetus tothe cities' cultural scenes and focus on solemn andjoyful music fit for the occasion.

APRIL__________________________________Spring Festival, Vienna Masterpieces of classicalmusic, performed by well-known interpreters at theVienna Musikverein, with focus on compositions byDvořák and Janáček.MAY____________________________________Life Ball, Vienna Life Ball is one of Europe’s most funand flamboyant AIDS charity events and has grown tobe a renowned society gathering.Narzissen Fest, Bad Aussee In two traditionalparades, one on the road, the other by boat, theparticipants—dressed in traditional costumes—displaybeautiful creations made entirely of daffodils.Vienna Festival The concerts and performances of theVienna Festival are the true highlights of Vienna’s concertand performing art season.

Schubertiade, Schwarzenberg A series of high-levelorchestral and chamber music concerts, piano, andlieder evenings amid the charming setting of the Bregenzerwald.

JUNE___________________________________Styriarte, Graz The involvement of star conductorNikolaus Harnoncourt guarantees exceptional musical experiences.Danube Island Festival, Vienna This has become thelargest youth festival in central Europe. People from allover the world are expected at the largest summerrecreation paradise in Europe to enjoy a weekend ofentertainment and music.Vienna Music Film Festival Famous concert, opera,and ballet performances are shown on a huge screenevery evening under the summer sky against thesplendid backdrop of Vienna's City Hall. Food and drinkare served at food stands, the entertainment is free.Opera in Summer Concert and opera highlights at theTheater an der Wien, outside of the regular opera season.

JULY___________________________________Ambras Castle Concerts and Festival Weeks in Innsbruck One of the most importantfestivals of music from the Middle Ages, theRenaissance, Baroque and Classic periods performedon original instruments.Bregenz Festival Since 1946 music theater has beenperformed in the unique atmosphere of the largestlakeside stage in the world.Innsbruck Summer Festival Workshop andperformances with international artists.

AUGUST_________________________________Salzburg Festival The Salzburg Festival is one of themost important music and theater festivals in the world,featuring drama, concerts, and opera since 1920.

SEPTEMBER_____________________________Haydn Festival, Eisenstadt The program includesopera, concerts, masses, and lieder evenings performedin the concert hall at Esterházy Castle.

Bruckner Festival, Linz Numerous classical concertshonor Linz’s famous son, composer Anton Bruckner. Thefestival is ushered in every year with the spectacular“Classical Sound Cloud” on the banks of the River Danube.

OCTOBER______________________________ __ Steirischer Herbst, Graz At the heart of this innovativecontemporary art festival is the interplay of music,performance, creative arts, literature, and new media.Three Country Marathon Each year runners passthrough Germany and Switzerland on their way aroundLake Constance to the finish line of this scenic marathonin Bregenz, Vorarlberg.

NOVEMBER______________________________Winter Opening Arlberg There is no better place tostart the winter season than the resorts of the Arlberg.Salzburg Jazz Autumn, Salzburg The Salzburg JazzAutumn has been staged since November 1996 withinternational stars and artists.

DECEMBER______________________________Christmas MarketsSparkling Christmas lights and decorations adorn thestreets of Austria’s cities and villages.

For a comprehensive calendar of events, withdetailed information on dates, times and venues ofcultural events, please call or e-mail the

Austrian Tourist Office and ask for your copy of the “Culture Guide.”US Tel: 212 944 6880 CAN Tel: 416 967 3381 [email protected]

www.austria.info


Event Calendar PHOTOS: AUSTRIAN TOURIST OFFICE; NEW

YEAR’S EVE @ WIENTOURISM

US / GERHARD WEINKIRN ; FLOATING STAGE / BREGENZ FESTIVAL; GROSSER SAAL WIENER KONZERTHAUS / HERBERT SCHWINGENSCHLOEGL; HAYDN

SAAL ESTERHAZY PALACE / M

ANFRED HORVATH; HAYDN

PHILHARMON

IE / BERNHARD WOLFF

www.austria.info 29

Winter

PHOTOS: AUSTRIAN TOURIST OFFICE, INN

SBRUCK TOURIST OFFICE, TOURISM

US SALZBURG GM

BH, LINZ TOURISMUS

28 www.austria.info

During the four weeks leading up to Christmas Eve, Christmas Markets spring up in every town, big and small, all over the country. They are an important part of

the longstanding traditions observed during the Advent season and contribute to the almost tangible aura of expectation that lies over the land. Emanating a warm

and cozy atmosphere, these markets offer all kinds of handicrafts and Christmas decorations: handmade toys and local art, dolls and marionettes, spice bouquets,

candles, ceramics, crèches and crèche figurines. Mulled wine and delicious foods draw crowds, and many Christmas Markets become a gathering spot where

people meet to chat and enjoy the festive mood. Here is a short list of the most popular markets across Austria:

• VIENNA – "The Magic of Advent"The Christmas Market held in front of the City Hall canbe traced back to the year 1298. Today, 140 stallsoffer a variety of seasonal food and drink as well ashandicrafts and Christmas decorations. For children,there is even a Christmas workshop, where they canmake trinkets and bake cookies.www.christkindlmarkt.at

• VIENNA – Schönbrunn Christmas MarketVienna’s most scenic and cozy Christmas Market isheld directly in front of Schönbrunn Palace. With dailyconcerts, the scent of mulled wine and gingerbread inthe air, and the beautiful Christmas tree to admire, youcan’t help being in a festive mood.www.weihnachtsmarkt.co.at

• Christmas in SalzburgThe romantic Christmas Market on Cathedral Squareright in the heart of Salzburg dates back to the 15thcentury. The tree vendors occupy the Residenzplatzon the side of the huge Baroque building. Several folkgroups perform traditional Salzburg Christmas carols,all designed to conjure the true Christmas spirit. www.christkindlmarkt.co.at

• Salzburg – Hellbrunner Advent MagicOne of the most perfect locations for a traditionalChristmas Market is the charming Hellbrunn Castlenear Salzburg. Come to soak up the fairy-taleatmosphere, shop for local handicrafts, and listen totraditional music while sipping a cup of specialChristmas coffee. www.hellbrunneradventzauber.at

• Innsbruck Christmas MarketsThe medieval square in front of the Golden Roof istransformed into a traditional Austrian ChristmasMarket, where you can sample Tirolean fare and buyChristmas presents. In fact, the entire town center isso beautifully decorated, it seems like one bigChristmas Market. The snow-capped mountains in thebackground provide the perfect seasonal atmosphere.www.christkindlmarkt.cc/

• GRAZ Advent MarketsA romantic tour is the best way to experience themagical atmosphere of the various Christmas Marketsin Graz. Nestled between medieval buildings or spreadout right in front of the festively adorned City Hall, thevarious stalls beckon with glittering trinkets, localhandicrafts, and delicious foods.www.graztourismus.at

• LINZThe Christmas Markets in Linz are held on theBaroque main square and in the Volksgarten. The LinzCity Express takes you from one market to the next, soyou can enjoy typical arts and crafts, hot punch, andperformances by brass orchestras and choirs withouthaving to walk far. Linz also features a specialChristmas and crèche exhibition and workshops,where you can create your own Christmas presents.www.linz.at

• Rattenberger AdventA medieval city with only 439 inhabitants and coveringan area of 11 hectares, Rattenberg is the perfectbackdrop for an authentic Advent experience. Be sureto check your calendar, Austria’s smallest city holdsits lovely Christmas Market only on certain weekendsin December! www.rattenberg.at

• Mariazell – Advent AustriaFor centuries, Mariazell has been a spiritual center andfavorite destination of pilgrims and vacationers from allover the world. Against the picturesque backdrop ofthe basilica, in the midst of the wintry mountains ofthe Mariazell region, it is the magic and tranquility ofAdvent that come to the fore. Every weekend inDecember, authentic Christmas customs and regionaldelicacies delight adults and children alike.www.advent-austria.at

Christmas Markets Yearly Event HighlightsIf you want to know what not to miss while you are in Austria, we have compiled a list of the country’s most notable events throughout the year. People have beenknown to travel across the Atlantic for these events alone. . . .

JANUARY______________________________Mozart Week, Salzburg Every year around Mozart’sbirthday on January 27, Salzburg honors its mostbeloved son with a series of performances featuringworld-renowned artists.Hahnenkamm Race, Kitzbühel The HahnenkammDownhill Race is the unofficial highlight of thechampionship skiing season. Daredevil skiers excel onthe slopes, and Kitzbühel is party central for days.Resonanzen in the Konzerthaus, Vienna Vienna’sfestival of ancient music in the Konzerthaus featurescompositions ranging from the Middle Ages to theBaroque period.

FEBRUARY_______________________________Opera Ball, Vienna The Vienna State Opera is thevenerable venue for the top social event of Vienna’s Ball season.

MARCH_________________________________Easter Festivals in Vienna, Salzburg and InnsbruckThe very popular Easter Festivals give new impetus tothe cities' cultural scenes and focus on solemn andjoyful music fit for the occasion.

APRIL__________________________________Spring Festival, Vienna Masterpieces of classicalmusic, performed by well-known interpreters at theVienna Musikverein, with focus on compositions byDvořák and Janáček.MAY____________________________________Life Ball, Vienna Life Ball is one of Europe’s most funand flamboyant AIDS charity events and has grown tobe a renowned society gathering.Narzissen Fest, Bad Aussee In two traditionalparades, one on the road, the other by boat, theparticipants—dressed in traditional costumes—displaybeautiful creations made entirely of daffodils.Vienna Festival The concerts and performances of theVienna Festival are the true highlights of Vienna’s concertand performing art season.

Schubertiade, Schwarzenberg A series of high-levelorchestral and chamber music concerts, piano, andlieder evenings amid the charming setting of the Bregenzerwald.

JUNE___________________________________Styriarte, Graz The involvement of star conductorNikolaus Harnoncourt guarantees exceptional musical experiences.Danube Island Festival, Vienna This has become thelargest youth festival in central Europe. People from allover the world are expected at the largest summerrecreation paradise in Europe to enjoy a weekend ofentertainment and music.Vienna Music Film Festival Famous concert, opera,and ballet performances are shown on a huge screenevery evening under the summer sky against thesplendid backdrop of Vienna's City Hall. Food and drinkare served at food stands, the entertainment is free.Opera in Summer Concert and opera highlights at theTheater an der Wien, outside of the regular opera season.

JULY___________________________________Ambras Castle Concerts and Festival Weeks in Innsbruck One of the most importantfestivals of music from the Middle Ages, theRenaissance, Baroque and Classic periods performedon original instruments.Bregenz Festival Since 1946 music theater has beenperformed in the unique atmosphere of the largestlakeside stage in the world.Innsbruck Summer Festival Workshop andperformances with international artists.

AUGUST_________________________________Salzburg Festival The Salzburg Festival is one of themost important music and theater festivals in the world,featuring drama, concerts, and opera since 1920.

SEPTEMBER_____________________________Haydn Festival, Eisenstadt The program includesopera, concerts, masses, and lieder evenings performedin the concert hall at Esterházy Castle.

Bruckner Festival, Linz Numerous classical concertshonor Linz’s famous son, composer Anton Bruckner. Thefestival is ushered in every year with the spectacular“Classical Sound Cloud” on the banks of the River Danube.

OCTOBER______________________________ __ Steirischer Herbst, Graz At the heart of this innovativecontemporary art festival is the interplay of music,performance, creative arts, literature, and new media.Three Country Marathon Each year runners passthrough Germany and Switzerland on their way aroundLake Constance to the finish line of this scenic marathonin Bregenz, Vorarlberg.

NOVEMBER______________________________Winter Opening Arlberg There is no better place tostart the winter season than the resorts of the Arlberg.Salzburg Jazz Autumn, Salzburg The Salzburg JazzAutumn has been staged since November 1996 withinternational stars and artists.

DECEMBER______________________________Christmas MarketsSparkling Christmas lights and decorations adorn thestreets of Austria’s cities and villages.

For a comprehensive calendar of events, withdetailed information on dates, times and venues ofcultural events, please call or e-mail the

Austrian Tourist Office and ask for your copy of the “Culture Guide.”US Tel: 212 944 6880 CAN Tel: 416 967 3381 [email protected]

www.austria.info


Travel Tips

www.austria.info 31

Travel Tips

Travel TipsOur Insider’s Guide to Traveling in Austria.

Plan before you goTravel planning is a fun and entertaining task, a period of anticipation and excitement.

Good travel planning makes a great trip even better. We highly recommend the use of

a professional who can help you in this endeavor. In this guide you will find information

about leading travel companies with a vast expertise in planning and operating trips

to Austria.

If you need a good travel agent, let us assist you. The Austrian Tourist Office

continuously trains and educates professional travel agents in the US and Canada.

Quite a few of them have completed our “Austria Expert” program. Look for an Austria

Certified Travel Specialist near you at www.austria.info or call us at 212 944 6880 in

the US or 416 967 3381 in Canada.

PHOTOS: W

IENTOURISM

US/ GERHARD WEINKIRN; AUSTRIAN TOURIST OFFICE; HOTEL ALTSTADT VIENNA; W

INE CELLARS / ÖWM / ANNA STÖCHER;

30 www.austria.info

-| 1 Vienna offers a colorful mix of cultural events-| 2 Austria offers 6,200 miles of clearly signposted trails for cyclists and

mountain bikers-| 3 Shopping in Austria is a pleasure, especially knowing that you can get a

VAT refund for many purchases above 75 €. -| 4 Hotel prices always include taxes and service charges-| 5 Make the most of your city stay by booking day trips to nearby regions

such as Lower Austria’s wine country.

READ ALL ABOUT ITFor your convenience we have put together a selection of Austria travel guides, CDs,cook books, fiction and much more which is available at www.amazon.com. Justgo to www.austria.info/us to access the list of Austria related literature.

GETTING THEREAustria is located in the very center of Europe, therefore easily accessible from alldirections. Austria has six international airports: Vienna, Salzburg, Innsbruck, Linz, Grazand Klagenfurt. Vienna is served by about 30 international airlines. Our national carrierAustrian Airlines (a member of the Star Alliance) offers non-stop connections from theUnited States and Canada to Vienna. Visit www.austrianair.com for more information.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTSCitizens of the United States and Canada simply need a valid passport to visit Austria

for up to 90 days. For citizens of other countries, we advise to check with the nearest

Austrian Consulate in the US or with the Austrian Embassy in Canada.

Consular Section of the Embassy, Washington, D.C.: 202 895 6700

Austrian Consulate General, New York: 212 737 6400

Austrian Consulate General, Los Angeles: 310 444 9310

Austrian Consulate General, Chicago: 312 222 1515

Austrian Embassy, Ottawa, Canada: 613 789 1444

VAT TAX REFUNDCitizens of countries not belonging to the European Union may obtain a refund on theVAT they pay on single purchases totaling more than EUR 75—if these goods aretaken out of the country and the necessary customs formalities are completed. Therequired forms are available at stores that are marked with a TAX FREE sticker.

For detailed information visit www.globalrefund.com.

PHONE CALLS TO AND WITHIN AUSTRIA:If you are planning on calling the US or Canada please check with your long distancecarrier whether they have a special service (access codes) for phone calls from Europe.If you are using MCI or AT&T phone cards, you will only have to pay for local phonecharges in Austria, the rest will be billed to your phone bill at home.

• The country code for Austria is +43; the area code for Vienna is 1, for Salzburg it

is 662 and for Innsbruck 512.

• When calling a local number in Austria, dial a 0 and then the area code (skip the area

code if you are calling from the same town)

• To call the US from Austria, dial 001 and then the area code and number

DRIVING IN AUSTRIAInternational and local car rental companies have offices at airports, key rail stationsand in major cities. Traffic regulations are similar to those in the United States andCanada, with some important considerations: no right turn on red, no passing on theright on highways and expressways and a lights-on-at-all-times rule. Also, all vehicleson Austrian roads have to carry a “security vest”, a light, neon-colored vest that hasto be worn for better visibility in case the driver has to leave the vehicle while on thehighway. Security vests can be obtained at any gas station. Driving in Austria requiresan International Drivers License, which can be obtained at your local AAA and CAA.

IMPORTANT FREEWAY TOLL REGULATIONDriving on Austria’s expressways (Autobahn) requires the use of a paid toll stickerwhich needs to be attached to the windshield. If you rent your car in Austria, it will likelyalready have such a sticker attached, not, however, if you rent in another country. Therequired toll is rather inexpensive (a ten-day visitor sticker will cost €7.70), thepenalties for being caught without one, however, tend to be rather stiff. Toll stickersare available at gas stations (in Austria and abroad in close border proximity), autocluboffices, post offices, tobacco shops.

TRAIN TRAVELRail service in Austria is comfortable and reliable, connecting all major cities and manyresort towns and regions with over 3,600 miles of rail system. A train ride From Viennato Salzburg takes approximately 3 hours; from Vienna to Innsbruck, it’s a five hourride. Austrian Rail is part of the Eurail system, with easy connections from neighboringcountries. For information on Rail Passes for Austria and neighboring countries, aswell as ticket reservations, please visit www.austria.info.

CLIMATEAustria enjoys pleasant, moderate weather with distinct seasonal changes. Summerscan be hot with temperatures occasionally reaching above 86° Fahrenheit (30°Celsius), summer evenings are usually cool. Don’t be afraid of the occasional rainshower, with rain falls heaviest in April and November. The driest periods tend to befrom September through early October. Winter temperatures typically fall just aroundfreezing with the occasional cold spell.

MONEY MATTERSAustria is part of the EURO (€) Zone limiting the need for currency exchange whentraveling to many neighboring countries. Credit cards are widely accepted, thoughsome restaurants, shops and private pensions still insist on cash payments. Werecommend exchanging US or Canadian Dollars at banks, as exchange rates at hotelsand currency exchange offices tend to be less advantageous. You can also accessyour personal bank accounts at many ATM teller machines, if your bank is part of thePlus, Cirrus, Maestro or Star systems. A word of caution, remember your PIN code ina numeric format as the keypad does not show letters.

TIPPINGAll service industries in Austria already include a basic service charge with their bill.However, for good service it is customary to tip about 10% of the bill amount for waiters,taxi drivers, hairdressers. Porters will appreciate about 1€ per piece of luggage.

For a comprehensive calendar of events, with detailed information ondates, times and venues of cultural events, please call or e-mail theAustrian Tourist Office and ask for your copy of the “Culture Guide.”

US Tel: 212 944 6880 CAN Tel: 416 967 3381

[email protected]

www.austria.info

1

2 3 4 5

Become a fan of "Austria. Official Travel Info" and> Post comments> Share videos and photos> Be a part of our community on Facebook

We would like to hear what you think.


www.austrian.com

For information & reservations call 800.843.0002 or visit www.austrian.com. Earn miles with Miles&More, Mileage Plus and Aeroplan.

From our New York, Washington D.C. and Toronto gateways, Austrian Airlines flies nonstop to Vienna, our hub. We offer excellent connections within Austria and to many other European destinations. Onboard, we treat our guests to elegant dining and numerous entertainment choices. But the real difference is our European flair. It is reflected in everything we do, from our attention to detail to the pleasure we get from a job well done.


austria travel magazine

Documents

austria tourist office

travel plans

travel planner

glanceaustrian tourist

visiting austria

theaustrian tourist

practical travel tips

austrian history