Better shift down a gear, because now it’s getting mountainous: around 62 per cent of Austria’s surface area is covered by the Alps. Find out what else awaits you in the country at the Danube here.

Austria is known for its delicious cuisine with Wiener Schnitzel, Sachertorte, apple strudel and Kaiserschmarrn. You can also enjoy much of this at one of the numerous rest stops, as they often offer a varied selection of high-quality dishes, including local specialities. They are also known for their fresh baked goods, homemade snacks and high-quality coffee.

Your perfect break

No wonder, because the coffee house culture, especially in the capital Vienna, is unique and was declared an intangible cultural heritage by UNESCO in 2011. A cosy café is therefore the perfect place to take a break during a long journey.#

Fancy a souvenir?

The famous Mozartkugeln made of chocolate and marzipan are popular souvenirs. Why actually? They are now available almost everywhere in the supermarket. First they were made in Salzburg, the birthplace of Mozart. The baroque historic centre has also been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

UNESCO World Heritage Site: the baroque historic centre of Salzburg. Photo: Adobe Stock

However, the nickname “City of Music” has once again been claimed by Vienna. The metropolis on the Danube was home to famous composers such as Mozart, Beethoven, Schubert and waltz king Strauss. Here you will also find Schönbrunn Palace, one of the most visited tourist attractions in Austria and once the summer residence of the Habsburg monarchs.

Always go with the flow

If you travel along the Danube, which crosses the country from west to east, spectacular landscapes spread out before you and you pass many historic towns that are well worth a short stop.

The country’s lakes are also worth a detour. Lake Neusiedl on the Austro-Hungarian border, for example, is the largest steppe lake in Central Europe without a natural outlet and a paradise for birdwatchers. Wörthersee in Carinthia, on the other hand, is considered one of the warmest Alpine lakes and is a popular destination for water sports enthusiasts such as swimmers, sailors and water skiers.

A popular destination for water sports enthusiasts: the warm Wörthersee in Carinthia. Photo: Adobe Stock

In Styria, you can treat yourself to a relaxing break during or after your tour: It is known for its thermal baths and wellness centres.

Coffee house, thermal baths or wine taverns: What’s your favourite way to relax on the road? Tell us!