14 Unforgettable Things to Do in Austria in Summer
Austria truly comes alive in the summer. As someone who experiences the rhythms of Austrian life year-round, I can tell you there’s nothing quite like the energy, beauty, and variety this country offers when the snow melts and the trails, lakes, and cities open up in full bloom.
If you’re wondering about the best things to do in Austria in summer, this guide offers 14 unforgettable experiences—whether you’re craving mountain adventures, peaceful lakeside retreats, or cultural explorations through storybook towns.
These aren’t just tourist checklist items—they’re handpicked highlights that reflect the soul of an Austrian summer, each one worth your time.
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Ultimate Guide to Epic Things to Do in Austria in Summer
Top 14 Things to Do in Austria in Summer
Contents
Austria’s Natural and Scenic Wonders You Can’t Miss This Summer
1. Explore the Austrian Alps – Breathtaking Panoramas
2. Discover Austria’s Magical Ice Caves: A Cool Summer Escape
3. Epic Scenic Drive on the Großglockner High Alpine Road
4. Experience the power of Water at Austria’s Krimml Waterfalls
5. Explore the Wachau Valley – Castles, Vineyards & Danube Cruise
6. Ride the Semmering Railway – Austria’s Historic Mountain Train
Cities, Culture and Festivals
7. Take a City Break – Discover Vienna, Salzburg, Innsbruck and Graz
8. Experience Austria’s Best Summer Festivals – Music and Culture
9. Celebrate at Austria’s Traditional Village Festivals (Dorffest & Almfest)
Outdoor Adventures -Summer in Austria
10. Swim, Boat, and Relax on Austria’s Beautiful Lakes
11. Hike Breathtaking Alpine Trails
12. Cycle Through Austria’s Most Scenic Trails
13. Conquer Austria’s Mountains by Mountain Biking
14. Feel the Rush: Thrilling Adventure Sports to Try in Austria This Summer
Austria’s Natural and Scenic Wonders
You Can’t Miss This Summer
1. Explore the Austrian Alps – Breathtaking Panoramas
No summer trip to Austria is complete without experiencing the Austrian Alps, and one of the most accessible ways to do that is by taking a scenic cable car ride to the peaks.
From Kitzsteinhorn in Kaprun to Nordkette above Innsbruck and the iconic Dachstein Glacier, these summits offer jaw-dropping 360° alpine views, glacier walks, skywalks, and even suspension bridges.
These mountain stations are designed to be family-friendly, with alpine restaurants, easy nature trails, and dedicated viewing platforms for the perfect photo.
Exploring the Alps this way is one of the most memorable things to do in Austria in summer, and with hundreds of Bergbahnen (mountain cable cars) operating throughout the season, you’re never far from a panoramic adventure.
2. Discover Austria’s Magical Ice Caves: A Cool Summer Escape
© Dachstein Tourismus AG – Mirja Geh
Exploring Austria’s Ice Caves is a truly unforgettable summer experience and an activity you can only do in Summer.
There are two Ice Caves that you can visit- a perfect escape on a hot summer day. The Eisriesenwelt in Werfen, near Salzburg, is the world’s largest ice cave and a must-see for nature lovers. The Dachstein Giant Ice Cave is in Obertraun in the mountains above the picturesque village of Hallstatt.
Both caves are reached by cable car, followed by a short hike. Guided tours take you into the magical world of glittering crystal formations and frozen chambers.
You can also check out my detailed review of the Dachstein Giant Ice Cave and other activities on the Dachstein-Krippenstein.
3. Epic Scenic Drive on the Großglockner High Alpine Road
The Großglockner High Alpine Road is one of Europe’s most breathtaking mountain drives—and a must-do when exploring things to do in Austria in summer. This 48-kilometre (~30-mile) scenic route winds through dramatic alpine landscapes, with hairpin bends, lush meadows, and sweeping panoramic viewpoints.
Key stops include Edelweißspitze, the highest accessible point by car, and Kaiser-Franz-Josefs-Höhe, where you can marvel at glaciers and sometimes even spot marmots or ibex.
Along the route, you’ll also find small museums, visitor centres, and wildlife exhibits that add depth to the journey.
Before you go, be sure to check out our complete guide to Driving the Großglockner High Alpine Road.
4. Experience the power of Water at Austria’s Krimml Waterfalls
A true natural wonder, the Krimml Waterfall is the tallest in Europe and the 5th highest in the world, cascading an impressive 380 meters over three tiers.
Visiting these majestic falls is one of the most awe-inspiring things to do in Austria in summer, especially if you enjoy scenic hikes and powerful landscapes.
Krimml is ideally located near several popular summer destinations: about 50 km west of Zell am See-Kaprun, 55 km southwest of Kitzbühel, and 37 km east of Zell am Ziller, near the start of the Gerlos Pass.
A well-maintained hiking path allows you to experience the falls up close, with multiple viewing platforms offering unforgettable photo opportunities.
5. Explore the Wachau Valley – Castles, Vineyards & Danube Cruise
The Wachau Valley, a stunning 36-kilometre stretch along the Danube River, is one of the most scenic and culturally rich regions in Austria—and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Located between Krems an der Donau and Melk, just 80 km west of Vienna, this region is renowned for its terraced vineyards, apricot orchards, medieval villages, and riverside castles.
A river cruise is one of the most relaxing and picturesque things to do in Austria in summer, offering panoramic views. It stops at historic towns like Melk, with its grand 11th-century Benedictine Abbey, Dürnstein, and Krems.
You can also combine your visit with biking, hiking, or a scenic train ride for a full-day cultural escape in Lower Austria’s wine country
The famous Melk Abbey
6. Ride the Semmering Railway – Austria’s Historic Mountain Train
© ÖBB
This UNESCO World Heritage route, built between 1848 and 1854, is considered a pioneering feat of civil engineering.
The 41-kilometre line crosses the Semmering Pass between Gloggnitz and Mürzzuschlag, connecting Lower Austria and Styria via 15 tunnels and 16 dramatic viaducts and bridges. Along the way, passengers are treated to panoramic views of alpine forests, valleys, and quaint villages. You can hop off at various stations to explore local towns or enjoy hiking trails.
Most travellers start from Vienna (about 1.5 hours to Mürzzuschlag), but continuing the route along the Mürz River to Graz (total ~2.5 hours) makes for an even richer experience.
Tickets are available via ÖBB. We recommend booking the €3 seat reservation during summer months due to the route’s popularity.
Cities, Culture & Festivals – Summer in Austria
7. Take a City Break – Discover Vienna, Salzburg, Innsbruck and Graz
Austria’s cities are vibrant and full of life in the summer, offering a rich mix of culture, history, and seasonal charm.
Visiting these iconic destinations in summer is one of the most rewarding things to do in Austria, whether you’re into classical music, architecture, or food.
⇒ Remember that high season runs from mid-July to the end of August, so booking accommodation, tours, and event tickets well in advance is recommended.
• Vienna – Enjoy world-class museums and opulent palaces like Schönbrunn, Hofburg, and Belvedere. Don’t miss a classical concert or one of Vienna’s summer festivals.
• Salzburg – Soak in the Baroque beauty of Mozart’s birthplace. Explore the historic old town, hike up to the Hohensalzburg Fortress, and enjoy views of the Alps. Find out if the ‘Hills are alive with the Sound of Music’ on one of the popular Tours.
• Innsbruck – A city where alpine adventure meets imperial history. Ride the Nordkette cable car from the city centre straight into the mountains, or wander the medieval old town.
• Graz – UNESCO City of Design and Austria’s culinary capital. Visit its historic centre, modern art galleries, and charming cafés along the Mur River. Climb the Schlossberg for sweeping city views and visit the Uhrturm (Clock Tower), sample local Styrian wines and cuisine.
8. Experience Austria’s Best Summer Festivals- Music and Culture
Summer in Austria is synonymous with vibrant festivals celebrating music, culture, and the arts.
Whether you’re a classical music lover or looking for something more contemporary, there’s a festival for everyone.
Attending one (or more!) of these festivals is one of the most memorable things to do in Austria in summer, offering a true taste of local culture, music, and food.
The Salzburg Festival is World-renowned for its classical music and opera. It attracts top-tier artists and audiences from around the globe.
Styriarte in Graz focuses on Baroque and early music.
Innsbruck Festival of Early Music is a unique event held in imperial settings. It features enchanting concerts in the heart of the Alps.
Vienna’s Rathausplatz Film Festival is A free, open-air event that transforms the Rathausplatz (City Hall Square) into a lively venue, with concerts and international cuisine.
Vienna Donauinselfest is the world’s largest free open-air music festival, annually on Vienna’s Donauinsel (Danube Island).
This massive event typically attracts around 3 million visitors over three days, featuring performances across multiple stages.
The 2025 edition takes place June 20-22.
9. Celebrate at Austria’s Traditional Village Festivals (Dorffest & Almfest)
For an authentic taste of Austrian tradition, attending a Dorffest (village festival) is one of the most genuine things to do in Austria in summer.
Local clubs organise these lively celebrations and are often likened to a mini-Oktoberfest. Each village puts its own spin on the event, but you can always expect traditional food, music, dancing, and a strong sense of community pride.
Locals dress for the occasion in Trachten (traditional dress)—with women in Dirndls and men in Lederhosen.
Enjoy local specialities like Bratwurst, Schnitzel, Brettljause (cold platters), and Krapfen (fried dough pastries), paired with refreshing beer, regional schnapps, and sometimes even local wine. Blasmusik (brass bands) fills the air, accompanied by lively musical performances.
In some mountain villages—especially in the Tyrol and Salzburg regions—the Dorffest coincides with the Almbtrieb, a cattle drive during which villagers celebrate the return of cows, decorated with flower crowns and bells, from the alpine pastures.
Most Dorffest take place in July and August, with the Almbtrieb typically held in the early autumn. Check for signs in villages for the local Dorffest dates and times.
Outdoor Adventures – Summer in Austria
10. Swim, Boat, and Relax on Austria’s Beautiful Lakes
Austria is home to some of Europe’s cleanest and most picturesque lakes, offering a perfect setting for summer relaxation and outdoor adventures.
Whether you prefer swimming, stand-up paddling, kayaking, or simply enjoying the view, Austria’s crystal-clear alpine lakes are ideal for a variety of activities.
Many lakes feature Seebäder (lakeside beaches) with amenities like changing rooms, cafés, and sunbathing areas for ultimate comfort.
These beautiful lakes are some of the best things to do in Austria in summer, offering a mix of natural beauty, adventure, and relaxation.
♥ Wolfgangsee –Nestled in Upper Austria, this stunning lake is surrounded by the charming villages of Wolfgang, St. Gilgen, and Strobl. Enjoy scenic boat rides and swim in the refreshing waters.
♥ Wörthersee Located between Klagenfurt and Villach, Wörthersee is one of Austria’s most famous summer destinations, known for its warm waters and vibrant nightlife.
♥ Zeller See – Lake Zell is in the popular summer destination of Zell am See in the State of Salzburg. Lake Zell is surrounded by snow-capped peaks, and is perfect for sailing, stand-up paddling, swimming or a scenic boat tour.
♥ Salzkammergut Region Often referred to as Austria’s lake district, Salzkammergut boasts beautiful lakes surrounded by towering mountains. Notable lakes in this region include Wolfgangsee, Fuschlsee, Mondsee, Attersee, Traunsee, and Hallstättersee—all offering stunning landscapes and excellent water activities.
Lake Zell
Mondsee in Salzkammergut © TVBMondsee IrrseeKathrinHaas
11. Hike Breathtaking Alpine Trails
One of the top things to do in Austria in summer is hiking through its iconic alpine landscapes. Austria is a dream for hikers with thousands of well-maintained trails winding past wildflower meadows, glacier-fed waterfalls, and panoramic views.
Whether you’re a beginner looking for scenic day hikes or an experienced trekker seeking multi-day mountain adventures, there’s a route for you.
For an unforgettable experience, consider an overnight stay in a traditional Almhütte (alpine hut). Many are accessible via hiking trails or cable cars and offer hearty Austrian meals, warm hospitality, and a front-row seat to alpine sunrises and star-filled skies. It’s the perfect way to immerse yourself in the Austrian Alps’ natural beauty and cultural charm.
You can start planning your hike by reading our Beginner’s Guide to Hiking in Austria.
12. Cycle Through Austria’s Most Scenic Trails
One of the top things to do in Austria in summer is to explore the country by bike.
Austria is a cyclist’s dream destination, with its well-marked bike paths, breathtaking scenery, and routes suitable for all fitness levels.
You can cycle through beautiful scenery, from peaceful lakeside rides to thrilling alpine descents.
Whether you’re a casual rider or an experienced bike rider, these top bike routes offer unforgettable summer adventures:
🚴 Top Bike Routes in Austria for Summer Cycling
♦ Danube Cycle Path (Donauradweg) – One of Europe’s most iconic long-distance bike trails, the Austrian section runs 320 km (199 mi) from Passau to Vienna. Enjoy flat, scenic cycling through vineyards, rolling countryside, and medieval towns like Melk and Dürnstein along the Danube River.
♦ Lake Neusideld Cycle Path (Neusiedler See Radweg) Ideal for casual cyclists and families, this popular circular route loops around Lake Neusiedl. Ride through mostly flat terrain through peaceful vineyards, reed beds, and UNESCO-listed landscapes, with opportunities for birdwatching and wine tasting.
♦ Salzkammergut Lakes Route – This stunning 345+ km (214+ mi) circular route winds through Austria’s picturesque lake district. Pass crystal-clear lakes, alpine villages, and historic spa towns in the heart of the Salzkammergut region.
♦ The Tauern Cycling Trail (Tauernradweg). Starting at the foot of the Hohe Tauern’s snow-covered mountains near the Krimml Waterfalls, this route follows the Salzach River through lush green meadows via Salzburg toward Passau. If you need a break from riding, you can take the Pinzgauer Lokalbahn (train) that runs from Krimml waterfalls to Zell am See.
♦ Drau Cycle Path (Drauradweg) This trail is popular with families and e-bike users. The gentle route runs from Toblach in Italy via Lienz and through Austria’s Carinthia region to Villach and then into Slovenia. Ride along the Drau River, with plenty of spots to picnic, swim, and explore charming villages.
♦ Inn Cycle Path (Innradweg) The Austrian portion of the trail begins in Innsbruck and follows the Inn River through Tyrol to Passau (Germany). This trail is ideal for intermediate to advanced riders and combines alpine scenery with flat sections.
13. Conquer Austria’s Mountains by Mountain Biking
© Hochkönig Tourismus
If you’re looking for adrenaline-pumping things to do in Austria in summer, mountain biking in the Alps should be at the top of your list.
Austria is a world-class destination for mountain bikers, with hundreds of kilometres of well-maintained dedicated mountain biking trails, modern lift infrastructure, and varied terrain that caters to everyone from beginners to elite riders. From high alpine freeride trails to scenic forest paths, Austria delivers a thrilling ride at every turn.
Here are some of the best mountain biking spots in Austria:
♦ Saalbach-Hinterglemm-Leogang (Salzburg State)
Often referred to as Austria’s mountain biking capital, this region offers over 400 km of interconnected trails with gondola access and top-tier infrastructure. Leogang hosts the UCI Mountain Bike World Cup and features trails for all levels—from beginner routes to expert downhill tracks. Bike-friendly accommodations and lift connections make it easy to explore.
♦ Innsbruck (Tyrol) Ride directly from the city into the mountains. Innsbruck combines urban access with diverse alpine terrain, making it a great option for riders who want variety, from forest singletracks to high-altitude descents
♦ Schladming-Dachstein (Styria) A growing favourite for MTB enthusiasts, this region features modern bike parks, fast gondolas, and a mix of flow trails, enduro lines, and natural singletracks. It’s perfect for those seeking both adrenaline and alpine beauty.
♦ Serfaus-Fiss-Ladis (Tyrol) This family-friendly bike park caters to all levels, offering technical trails, skill zones, and high-alpine routes. Serfaus-Fiss-Ladis provides a complete mountain biking experience.
♦ Großglockner High Alpine Road Looking for a test of endurance? Ride up Austria’s tallest mountain on the legendary Großglockner High Alpine Road, Austria’s highest mountain pass. This route offers significant elevation gains. jaw-dropping views, and this iconic climb is a badge of honour and gives serious bagging rights.
5. Thrilling Adventure Sports to Try in Austria in Summer
Austria is a summer playground for adrenaline seekers, packed with heart-pounding outdoor adventures. From roaring rivers to soaring skies, these action-packed experiences are some of the most exhilarating things to do in Austria in summer.
⚡ Top Summer Adventure Activities in Austria
♦ Whitewater Rafting & Canyoning
Navigate churning rapids or plunge into crystal-clear gorges in regions like the Ötztal Valley, the Salza River or the Salzach River. Guided canyoning and rafting tours offer a safe yet thrilling way to explore Austria’s wildest natural features.
♦ Paragliding Over Alpine Valleys
Soar high above breathtaking landscapes in Zell am See, Stubai Valley, or the Wilder Kaiser region. Tandem paragliding offers an unforgettable bird’s-eye view of mountains, lakes, and forests—ideal for first-timers or seasoned flyers.
♦ Climbing Via Ferratas (Klettersteige)
Scale dramatic cliffs using fixed cables and ladders on Austria’s famed via ferrata routes. Top spots include Gesäuse National Park, Hohe Wand, and the Dachstein massif, where routes range from beginner-friendly to expert-only climbs.
These activities combine Austria’s epic natural beauty with world-class safety standards and trained local guides—perfect for adventurers of all experience levels.
Paragliding from Schmittenhöhe over Lake Zell
Unforgettable Things to Do in Austria in Summer
© Dachstein Tourismus AG - Mirja Geh
Hiking in Austria in Summer: Trails, Tips & Breathtaking Views
Hiking in Austria: A Beginner's Guide
Where to Hike in Austria: Top 10 Hiking Destinations
Kaprun Hiking: The Maiskogel Hut Path Guide
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