The Schönbrunn Palace is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Vienna. This imperial summer residence was once a home to the Habsburg monarchs and its history can be felt through its opulent and well-preserved interior. Families can enjoy a visit to the palace gardens, a maze, and a zoo, all within the Schönbrunn complex.
Swarovski Kristallwelten is a museum about the art, science, and history of crystals with over 17 chambers of wonder. It is a fun and interactive attraction for both adults and children. The museum includes a play area for kids and a garden that changes depending on the season.
Salzburg Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most intact city centers in Austria. The town is filled with baroque churches and buildings, and the small size of the town makes it easy to explore with children. Fans of The Sound of Music can also visit various filming locations around town.
Eisriesenwelt, meaning "World of the Ice Giants", is a natural wonder and the largest ice cave in the world. The cave is open to the public from May to October and is perfect for families who want to explore a unique and fascinating experience. A tour guide is provided to take visitors through the caves safely.
The Schladming-Dachstein region is a great place for families to enjoy the outdoors. The region is known for skiing and winter sports in the winter, and hiking and biking in the summer. Families can take a cable car up to the Dachstein Glacier to see stunning views and even an ice palace; or visit the Fairy Tale Trail in Rohrmoos-Untertal to experience a magical hike.
St. Wolfgang am Wolfgangsee is a picturesque mountain town and resort located in the Salzkammergut region of Austria. Families will enjoy taking a boat tour around the Wolfgangsee, hiking on one of the many nearby trails, or visiting the historical pilgrim church.
Finish your trip with a visit to the Vienna Prater amusement park. The park has a variety of rides and attractions for all ages, from roller coasters to carousels. The park also has a beautiful garden and a planetarium where families can learn about the night sky.
Traveling around Austria can be done by car or train. Trains are reliable, affordable and offer stunning views of the countryside, but driving provides more flexibility and the freedom to explore more. Travel costs depend on the type of transportation and the distance traveled. On average, a car can cost around €50 per day, and train travel costs around €15-€30 for a single journey.
If you have more time, additional places that can be visited are Krimml Waterfalls, Hallstatt, and Innsbruck. These places are great for families who want to enjoy outdoor activities and breathtaking views. If you have less time, you can skip Salzburg Old Town and St. Wolfgang am Wolfgangsee and focus on Vienna and the surrounding area.
The main international airport is Vienna International Airport (VIE), located 11 miles from Vienna city center. It serves as the primary hub for Austrian Airlines and many other international airlines. The airport has two terminals and offers a variety of transportation options to reach the city center including buses, trains, taxis, and rental cars.