Last Updated on August 16, 2022 by gregor
If you’re planning a visit to Austria in the autumn – you’re in for a treat! Austria in autumn is an idyllic time to visit with so many things to do.
Picture this: the leaves are changing color to a spectrum of oranges, yellows, and reds. The air turns crisper and cooler as the days get shorter. The weather is cool and crisp, making for perfect hiking and biking conditions, and the trees are ablaze with autumn colors.
Can you think of anything better?
From hiking in the Alps to wine tastings in the vineyards, there’s no shortage of things to do in this beautiful country during the fall time! Here are our top picks for the best things to do in Austria in autumn for an unforgettable autumn vacation in Austria.
Top Things to Do in Austria in Autumn
Embrace the enchanting scenery of Hallstatt, Upper Austria
Located in the heart of Austria and named a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hallstatt is a small village that’s truly straight out of a fairytale.
With its picturesque streets, quaint houses, and stunning mountain views, it’s no wonder this village is often referred to as “the most beautiful place in the world.”
There are plenty of things to do in Hallstatt, but one of the best ways to experience the village is simply to wander around and take in the sights.
Make sure to visit the picturesque lakeside, go for a walk through the forest, and take a ride on the Hallstatt Skywalk. You can also visit the Salt Mines, go shopping in the quaint shops, or enjoy some of the local cuisine and a cup of hot glühwein.
Hallstatt in autumn – Living in a fairytale
A walk around this magnificent village will truly have you feeling like you’re living in a fairytale! So, if you’re looking for a truly magical experience, a visit to Hallstatt is one of the best things to do in Austria in Autumn.
Read here the Blog with Travel Tips and Tips about Hallstatt
TOP 10 THINGS TO SEE AND DO IN HALLSTATT IN 2022, AUSTRIA
Explore the medieval Wachau Danube Valley, Lower Austria
The Wachau Danube Valley is one of the most picturesque regions in Austria, and it’s especially lovely in autumn when the leaves are changing color.
Situated between Melk and Krems, this region is known for its medieval castles, rolling hills, and vineyards.
There are plenty of things to see and do in the Wachau Valley, and one of the best ways to explore it is by bike. You can rent a bike in Krems and cycle along the Danube River, stopping at charming villages along the way. There are also plenty of hiking trails in the area if you’d prefer to explore on foot.
Wachau Region Highlights in Autumn
- The castle ruins of Dürnstein including the Lionheart Path
- The baroque abbey in Melk
- Vineyards of Spitz an der Donau.
The Wachau Valley is a beautiful place to visit in Austria in autumn, and you’re sure to fall in love with its charming villages and stunning scenery.
For more info about the Wachau Valley CLICK
When is the grape harvest in Wachau?
In average years, the start of the grape harvest is from the beginning of October to mid-October. The duration of the grape harvest depends on the weather and the location. Harvest in the Wachau usually lasts until mid-November.
Recommended Vienna to Wachau, Melk Abbey, and Danube Valleys Tour
More Information and Booking: Vienna to Wachau, Melk Abbey, and Danube Valleys Tour
Enjoy a bus and boat tour of the Wachau and Danube Valleys and visit the Benedictine Abbey of Melk on a tour from Vienna. Admire scenic views, and learn about the imperial history on the Blue Danube.
Take in the beauty of Salzburg
Salzburg is a beautiful city to visit at any time of year, but it’s especially lovely in autumn when the changing colors of the leaves make for a picturesque backdrop. This historic city is known for its baroque architecture, picturesque scenery, and of course, being the birthplace of Mozart.
Top Attractions of Salzburg
There are plenty of things to see and do in Salzburg, but some of the city’s must-see attractions include Hohensalzburg Fortress, Mirabell Palace and Gardens, and the old town. If you’re a music fan, you can also take a Mozart walking tour or visit the Mozart museum. Shopping addicts can take a walk down Getreidegasse, the city’s most famous shopping street. And, of course, don’t forget to sample some of the city’s delicious food – from schnitzel to strudel, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in Salzburg!
For those wanting to get out of the city for a day, there are plenty of day trips to take from Salzburg. You can visit the lakeside town of Hallstatt or take a cable car up to the Untersberg mountain for stunning views of the city.
No matter what you’re interested in, you’re sure to find plenty to keep you busy in Salzburg.
Rear here a full Travel Guide and valuable Tips about Salzburg
ULTIMATE TRAVEL GUIDE OF SALZBURG, AUSTRIA
Aerial view of Salzburg skyline at sunset – Salzburg, Austria
Visit the wineries of Styria
The gorgeous region of Styria is located in southeastern Austria and is known for its rolling hills, therapeutic spas, and delicious wine. In autumn, the leaves change color, making them even more beautiful.
Grape Harvest in Autumn
And, since October is grape harvest season, it’s the perfect time to visit Styria’s many wineries!
Styria is home to over 100 wineries, so you’re sure to find one that interests you. And, since many of them offer tours and tastings, you can learn about the wine-making process while enjoying a glass (or two!) of your favorite vino. Some of the most popular wineries in Styria include Schloss Seggau, Weingut Hiedler, and Weingut Tement.
What is Styria known for?
But wine isn’t the only thing Styria is known for! This region is also home to several therapeutic spas, perfect for relaxing after a long day of exploring. Or, if you’re looking for something more active, you can go hiking or cycling in one of the many parks and forests.
More Information on making Holidays in Styria in autumn
Biking the Mountains in the Großarl Valley, Salzburg
In the south of the state of Salzburg in Austria lies the market town of Grossarl in the district of St. Johann im Pongau.
Why is Grossarl Valley named Valley of the Alms?
Grossarltal, the valley of the alpine pastures. The Grossarl Valley rightly deserves the name “Valley of the Alms”. Because nowhere else in Salzburger Land is there a valley that would deserve this title more. During your hiking holiday, around 40 huts line the approximately 250 kilometers of well-signposted hiking trails.
Mountainbiking in the Grossarl Valley
Mountain bikers and cyclists can look forward to 21 marked bike routes with different demands and an altitude difference of 300 to 1,000 meters per tour in Grossarltal. There are a total of over 160 km of signposted and marked mountain bike trails in Grossarltal, which is around 14,000 meters in altitude.
More Information on Mountainbiking in the Grossarl Valley
Hotel Recommendation & Full Review: Grossarler Hof
In the heart of one of Austria’s most beautiful and indescribable Alpine mountains, in the Grossarl Valley, about an hour’s drive from Salzburg, families Andexer and Viehhauser have built one of the most splendid small luxury hotels named the GROSSARLER HOF.
Take a Health Retreat at the BLEIB BERG, Carinthia
Autumn is a great time for regeneration and relaxation in autumn.
The BLEIB BERG Health Retreat is one of them. If you are looking for holistic therapies and cures that is the place to stay. Every guest experiences comprehensive medical competence at the BLEIB BERG Health Retreat.
Hike through the Zillertal Valley, Tyrol
The Zillertal Valley of Austria is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, and it’s especially beautiful in autumn. This scenic valley is situated in the Tyrolean Alps and is known for its hiking trails, mountain views, and charming villages.
Hiking Trails
One of the best ways to explore the Zillertal Valley is on foot, and there are plenty of hiking trails to choose from, no matter what your fitness level. If you’re looking for a challenging hike, you can tackle the Gerlosstein mountain trail or hike up to the Harter Schleierwasserfall, where you’ll find breathtaking vistas of the valley.
Other Sports activities in the Zillertal Valley
For those not interested in hiking, there are plenty of other activities to enjoy in the Zillertal Valley. You can go cycling, white water rafting, or even paragliding. Or, if you just want to relax, you can take a cable car up to one of the valley’s mountain peaks and enjoy the views. The Zillertal Valley is filled with lakes and waterfalls, making it one of the most beautiful places to visit in Austria in autumn.
No matter what you’re interested in, you’re sure to find plenty to keep you busy in the Zillertal Valley. Whether you’re looking for an action-packed vacation or simply want a peaceful getaway surrounded by nature, Zillertal Valley brings the best of both worlds. So, add it to your list of places to visit in Austria this autumn!
More Travel Information on visiting the Zillertal in autumn
Man hiker resting on small bridge over mountaian river at Schlegeis Lake, Zillertal Alps, Austria.
Be adventurous in Ramsau am Dachstein
Located in the Styrian Alps, Ramsau am Dachstein is a picturesque village that’s perfect for those looking for an adventurous getaway.
This village is situated near Austria’s highest mountain, the Dachstein, and is known for its hiking and Biking trails, mountain views, and glaciers.
In autumn, Ramsau am Dachstein is especially beautiful, as the leaves change color and create a stunning backdrop for your adventures.
Things to do in Ramsau in autumn
There are plenty of things to do in Ramsau am Dachstein, but some of the most popular activities include hiking, mountain biking, and glacier walking. You can also go paragliding or take a cable car up to the top of the Dachstein for breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. For those wanting to relax, Ramsau am Dachstein is also home to several spas and thermal baths. So, you can enjoy a day of pampering after a long day of exploring the village and its surroundings.
Children’s activities in Ramsau
Children visiting Ramsau am Dachstein can have fun as well, as there are plenty of activities specifically for them. They can
- go on a treasure hunt,
- visit the village’s petting zoo
- take a ride on the Dachstein glacier train
There’s also an adventure park that has zip lines, climbing walls, and more!
All Travel Information of Ramsau am Dachstein (Click)
Explore the cultural city of Vienna
A visit to Austria isn’t complete with a stop in the iconic city of Vienna! This vibrant city is filled with history, culture, and plenty of things to do.
And, since autumn isn’t the most popular time to visit Vienna, you’ll be able to experience all the city has to offer without the large crowds.
There are endless things to do in Vienna, but some of the most popular activities include visiting museums, exploring historic landmarks, and taking a walk through one of the many parks.
You can also go shopping, enjoy the local Viennese cuisine, or catch a show at one of the many theatres.
Must-see attractions in Vienna
- Schönbrunn Palace and Gardens
- Belvedere Palace & Museum (Famous Painting “The Kiss” from Gustav Klimt)
- Vienna State Opera House
You can also visit St. Stephen’s Cathedral, take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the city, or stroll through one of the many parks. If you’re a foodie like me, then you’ll definitely want to try some of the city’s famous Sachertorte (a chocolate cake) and Apfelstrudel (an apple pastry).
Top Museums in Vienna
Whether you’re looking for history, culture, or just a fun-filled city break, Vienna is the perfect destination. A stop in this historic city is definitely one of the best things to do in Austria in Autumn!
More Detailed Travel Information and Tips about Vienna.
HOW MANY DAYS DO YOU NEED TO VISIT VIENNA?
PRACTICAL TIPS FOR VISITING VIENNA
THE TOP AUTHENTIC VIENNESE EXPERIENCES YOU MUST ENJOY WHEN IN VIENNA, AUSTRIA
Visit Bad Gastein, Gasteinertal (Valley)
Bad Gastein is a great place for spa and ski holidays located in the High Tauern Mountains. The town has opulent hotels with hot spas where Franz Joseph I the Emperor of Austria came to relax.
The high slopes offer sporting opportunities, and visitors can go snowboarding. In the summer the mountains are excellent for hiking or mountain biking, and spectacular beauty is everywhere. You can go paragliding up the Eldorado Dorf Gastein with a professional and enjoy the mountains. The local community is vibrant with the food you can savor, and in the summer times Jazz events, open studios, and workshops are open to everyone. Holidays in Bad Gastein are among the best you will have.
For more Bad Gastein Travel Information, please read here (CLICK below)
Top things to do in Bad Gastein – Austrian Alps
Fairytale Postcards from Bad Gastein – Austrian Alps
Final thoughts
So, there you have it! These are just a few of the many great things to do in Austria during Autumn. Whether you’re looking to enjoy the scenery or sample the local cuisine, Austria is the perfect destination in Autumn. So, what are you waiting for?
Essential Information to Know Before Traveling to Vienna
Before any trip, it is always good to have some essential information. Check out these tips to be prepared for your trip to Vienna:
- Currency: Euro(€)
- Language: German
- Voltage: 230V
- Power sockets: Type F
Frequently Asked Questions
What currency does Austria use?
As seen above, Austria uses the Euro therefore, if you need to change currency, be aware of the exchange rates.
What language is spoken in Austria?
The official language in Austria is German, and even though most people can communicate in English, it is always useful to learn a few words or phrases. Some of them are “Danke”, meaning thank you, and “Bitte”, meaning you’re welcome or please.
How is the weather in autumn in Austria?
Temperatures in Austria in autumn tend to be cooler with temperatures of 9°C and 16°C. Please bring a warm jacket in October! In Austria, you can expect 3 to 8 rainy days in October. It’s a good idea to bring your umbrella so you don’t get exposed to bad weather.
What power sockets are used in Austria?
Another useful tip is that in Austria, the standard voltage is 230V while the power sockets are Type F, so be sure to have the right travel adaptor.
