Charming European Towns Austria

There are a little over 700 people living in Brand in Vorarlberg, the second-smallest and westernmost province in Austria. It is situated near the Swiss border in the Brandnertal Valley.

The scenic glacial lake, Lunersee which doubles as a hydroelectric facility, is the primary attraction.

Take a cable car ride and go hiking in the mountains.

One of Austria’s most picturesque settlements, the small hamlet of Dürnstein sits in the center of the wine region and is regarded as the crown jewel of the Wachau Valley. Walk the narrow cobblestoned alleys, visit the quaint shops and cafes.

Enjoy the hiking trails around the hills and see the remains of Dürnstein Castle, where Richard the Lionheart was imprisoned. Visitors can hike up to the ruins, which offer stunning views of the surrounding vineyards and hills.

Dürnstein is also a well-liked destination for river cruises along the Danube.

The charming Austrian village of Gotzens, which is close to Innsbruck, features a ski lift that allows you to go higher up the mountains for snowboarding, skiing, or snowshoeing. The village is home to farms known as Mittertennanfe with exquisitely decorated facades that date back to the 17th and 18th centuries.

See the Rococo-style St. Peter and Paul Church.

The community is a base for mountain biking and trekking in the nearby mountains in the summer.

Hallstatt is a small town with a network of streets that wind along the waterfront before randomly rising into the hills. It is situated on the banks of the Hallstätter See. With their pitched roofs and vibrant facades, the timber-framed dwellings resemble gingerbread houses.

Visit the Ataussee Salt Mine for a tour of the town’s history.

Climb to the Skywalk for breathtaking views.

See St. Michael’s Church with its spooky Bone House.

There are lots of eateries, but don’t forget to try the renowned Austrian dessert Schaumrollen from the bakery with the same name, Ofenfrische Schumrollen Bakery.

The charming community of Maria Worth is known for its lovely peninsula on the southern coast of the glistening Wörthersee.

Situated near the borders of Slovenia and Italy in southern Austria, the town is a short distance from the Triglav National Park. There are miles of hiking trails winding through meadows and woodlands.

The town features two ancient churches that seem to be close to the water. Located on the island’s highest plateau, the great Gothic church was built around 875 and is devoted to the Virgin Mary. Located on a picturesque peninsula by Lake Wörthersee, the church features striking twin spires that are visible from afar. Its interior showcases late Gothic architecture complemented by Baroque additions, reflecting centuries of religious devotion. It is lit up at night.

The charming little town of Piber is home to the world-famous Lipizzaner stallion stud farm. Every year around 40 to 50 foals are born. The ones that show potential will be part of the training regiment at the Spanish Riding School in Vienna. You can take a self-guided tour.

Even as you approach, you can make out the impressive baroque Piber Castle from a distance. The castle stands as a three‑story Baroque building composed of four regular wings set on an approximately square plan, enclosing a large central courtyard. 

St. Wolfgang in the stunning Salzkammergut along Lake Wolfgangsee. The historic streets are lovely with homes adorned with flowers.

It is home to the renowned hotel Im Weissen Rossi, with a long history and well-known from theater and film.

Take the vintage boat ride on Lake Wolfgangsee.

The Schafbergbahn is a quaint cog railway that ascends the mountain to give you breathtaking views.