Krems an der Donau

Austria, along with neighboring Switzerland, is the winter sports center of Europe. However, it is just as popular for summer tourists who visit its historic cities and villages and hike in the magnificent scenery of the Alps. Austria has a big number of lakes. Normally they are very clean, so you can swim in them; they provide camping places nearby. In winter you can use them for ice skating. In some places, you will have to pay to get on the lakeside. Beside all that rustic, tranquil nature and countryside, Austria has a whole other side too. As one of Europe's former great powers, Austria boasts a wealth of majestic architecture and historic structures. As it was long a centre of power in the Holy Roman Empire, you'll find not only palaces and magnificent city architecture but also grand cathedrals, monasteries and churches.

Austria

Alpine meadows, riparian forests and lush vineyards, narrow canyons and sweeping heathland, gently rolling hills and craggy ridges, picturesque river banks and mysterious moors: The confluence of Alpine and Pannonian, northern European and southern European influences is what gives Lower Austria its varied landscapes. Nature is nowhere more glorious than along the Danube, whether untouched as in Donau-Auen National Park or artfully subdued as in the abbey and castle gardens or in gardening exhibitions such as those at Garten Tulln. Another type of garden is a destination for gourmets in particular: the vineyards along the Danube, where some of the world’s finest wines grow.

Lower Austria

Discover Wachau valley on board steam boats

Steam Boats

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