A breezy road trip chasing the hidden melodies of Austria’s charming secondary cities
Austria, and most people immediately picture Vienna – grand imperial architecture, historic palaces, and walking in the footsteps of Mozart. While that is the quintessential Austrian travel experience, this time we wanted a change of scenery. By leaving the main capital behind, we discovered a completely different side of the country.
VIENNA STANDARD
Arriving in Vienna, we had our usual checklist of must-see sights like Schönbrunn and Hofburg palaces, but as self-proclaimed foodies, our culinary homework was where we really went all out. Our first stop was the iconic Café Sacher. Everyone tells you it’s a mandatory stop in Vienna, and the definitive order is the legendary Original Sacher Chocolate Cake. It is incredibly rich and dense, with a subtle hint of tartness from a layer of apricot jam tucked inside. Paired with a Wiener Melange a smooth coffee that feels like a cappuccino but with a much much softer, silkier finish. It is an absolute match made in heaven.
For lunch, the dish we had pinned as a nonnegotiable was the Wiener Schnitzel a massive, golden-fried cutlet (literally larger than your face) at the Bäckerstraße branch of Figlmüller Restaurant. It was fried to perfection, beautifully crisp without a hint of grease. Paired with a tangy, creamy potato salad that perfectly cut through the richness, it was a spectacular meal.
Full and satisfied, we set off to walk off our lunch. For art and music enthusiasts, the first recommended stop is the Belvedere Museum, where the undisputed highlight is Gustav Klimt’s masterpiece, The Kiss. The texture of the real gold leaf on the canvas is infinitely more stunning than any photo could ever capture. Next, we paid a visit to a local legend at Mozarthaus Vienna, the actual historic apartment where Mozart lived. The building’s exterior still retains its classic charm, and walking through the rooms where he lived and composed world-changing music really makes you feel connected to the man behind the genius.
We wrapped up our day at St. Stephen’s Cathedral in the heart of the city. The cathedral is pure grandeur; just looking up at the vibrant, geometric glazed roof tiles from the square below is stunning. If you still have some energy left, I highly recommend climbing the tower. Once you reach the top, a spectacular 360-degree panoramic view of the Vienna skyline unfolds before you the perfect, fulfilling end to a day in the capital.
HALLSTATT AFTER DARK
After bidding farewell to Vienna, we drove into the Salzkammergut region. A pro tip: time your drive so you arrive in Hallstatt in the evening. Once the day-trippers and tour groups start packing up, a wonderful serenity settles over the entire town.
Your very first stop has to be the iconic “Hallstatt Postcard View” on the northern edge of town. It’s just a short walk past the Protestant Church, and by evening, the crowds thin out so much that you won’t have to jostle anyone for the perfect shot. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll back along Seestraße, the main waterfront street. The road is lined with charming boutiques selling local handmade soaps and souvenirs crafted from regional salt, making for a delightful wander.
Continuing into the heart of the village brings you to the Central Square (Marktplatz). With its historic fountain and a backdrop of vibrant, colorful buildings, it is an idyllic spot to sit back and rest your feet.
When dinner rolls around, Gasthof Zauner is an excellent choice. The standout dish recommended by locals is the Reinanke, a fish native to the Salzkammergut lakes. Famous for being prepared in the traditional salt-grilled style, the meat is delicate, tender, and naturally sweet. Enjoyed alongside simple boiled potatoes and a cold local drink, it perfectly complements the crisp air of this beautiful lakeside retreat.
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