Located at the crossroads of Europe, this small yet beautiful country boasts extraordinary Alpine scenery, exquisite Habsburg architecture, a plethora of palaces and museums, and rich artistic and cultural traditions. Austria is the most mountainous country on the continent and the Alps’ jagged ridges, deep valleys, green meadows, and picturesque villages have made it a long-time favorite among mountaineers and snow-sports enthusiasts. It is this extremely varied terrain that has also influenced the country’s diverse cultural heritage. Despite being the ancestor of the mighty Austro-Hungarian empire which influenced European affairs for centuries, its different regions have maintained their unique dialect, dress, and way of life.
Not surprisingly, Austria’s capital Vienna seems now to be on everyone’s bucket list. No longer a city of fading imperial grandeur, it has been redefining itself as a young, vibrant, and modern urban center which has something to offer to everyone, but where culture is still king. Its historic center is a pleasure to explore on foot and anyone with interest in period architecture, art, classical music, or simply people-watching over a cup of coffee and a Viennese pastry will feel right at home.
