Alpine experiences: Top days out in Austria

Surrounded by towering alpine peaks and the shimmering waters of the lake, Hallstatt is one of Austria’s prettiest villages. Wander through narrow streets lined with pastel-coloured 16th-century houses, admire the Gothic churches and soak up the bustling lakeside atmosphere – it’s so idyllic that they’ve even built a replica of it in China.

And for a real pinch of Hallstatt’s history, hop on the funicular railway up into the mountains for a tour of the Bronze Age salt mines. Descend into the depths to uncover the 7,000-year history of mining for what was called ‘white gold’, before zooming down the longest miners’ slide in Europe.

Available from: Saalbach, Kaprun and Zell am See

Book the trip to the lakeside village of Hallstatt

Head into the dramatic Hohe Tauern National Park on this half-day trip to visit the 380m-high Krimml falls, the highest in Austria at 380m tall. At the bottom, you can watch the rushing water, hear its roar and feel the spray on your face – it's said to have healing powers. Then set off for a stroll along the 4km trail through the trees to take in the views from the top of the falls – and capture that perfect snap.

Available from: Mayrhofen and Alpbach

Sit back and enjoy views of Austria’s impressive peaks and The Sound of Music-style meadows on a day trip along the Grossglockner High Alpine Road. The route you'll take winds its way around 36 hairpin bends to the foot of country’s highest mountain, the Grossglockner.

Admire the 3,789m-high summit, then pop into the museum to learn about the history of the High Alpine Road. And if you feel like stretching your legs, take a stroll along one of the themed walking trails – keep a look out and you might spot marmots and ibex hiding among the rocks. On the way back, you'll travel through more of the High Tauern National Park – so definitely don't put your camera away. 

Available from: Saalbach, Kaprun, Zell am See, Niederau, Söll, St Johann in Tyrol and Kitzbühel.

Cross the border into Germany and travel to the Bavarian town of Berchtesgaden to see its glacial river, picture-perfect church and museums. As for what to do later on, the choice is yours. Buy a ticket to visit the area’s famous salt mine, where you’ll explore the underground tunnels and take a boat ride across the underground lake. Or, for even more spectacular views, upgrade your experience to include a trip up to the mountaintop Eagle’s Nest, accessed via a brass elevator within the mountain. Originally a meeting place for Hitler during the Second World War, it’s now the place to go for panoramic views over the valley.

Available from: Saalbach, Kaprun, Zell am See, Niederau, Söll, St Johann in Tyrol, Kitzbühel and Alpbach. 

Lakes, mountains and riverside villages – this day trip is the Alps to a T. First up is Rattenberg, Austria’s smallest town, where narrow, winding streets and colourful, medieval buildings set the scene for a wander through its charming centre. You’ll also have the chance to visit Kisslinger, the town’s famous crystal glass-blowing workshop, and watch skilled craftsmen at work.

Then, travel through the Inn Valley to Lake Achensee, a fjord-like stretch of crystal-clear water, framed by soaring alpine peaks. Whether you choose to stroll along the shoreline, take a dip in the lake or simply soak up the scenery – it’s postcard-worthy. 

Available from: Mayrhofen

Head to our Lakes & Mountains homepage to discover more about our favourite holidays.

Author: Sophie Taylor

Last updated: 26/05/2026