Austrian Alps Holidays 2012

Image by  michaelaw

The Alps are a massive mountain range that cuts across Europe from Italy, France, Switzerland, Austria, and Germany. Austria features eternal ice locked mountain peaks and great skiing in it's region of the Alps; offering relaxation, sport, and a great deal of fun for everyone.

Innsbruck

Innsbruck is the fifth most populous city in Austria, and the largest ski and winter resort in Austria. Remember to pick up an Innsbruck-Card when you enter the city; this card allows you to use public transportation and free entrance to all of the sights in the city. Here you can see the Hofkirche, or the tomb of the emperor. Also be sure to see Nordpark; here you can ski and mountainbike to your heart's content. Eat at the Magic Pizza Kebab; only 3E for a pizza!

Klagenfurt

Klagenfurt is the next stop in the Austrian Alps, where you can see many nature parks and ski. Minimundus is the miniature museum here, and you can see small scale replicas of many famous buildings from all over the world. Europapark is populated with peacocks, gardens, and is a nice place to unwind. The Reptilienzoo Happ is a reptile zoo with some rare species. Make sure you check out Ironman Austria and go swimming at the beautiful Klagenfurt Beach; nice and sandy with grass for volleyball it's a great place to stop!

Salzburg

Salzburg is situated along the Bavarian border, and the picturesque setting for The Sound of Music. See the Schloss Hellbrunn, where gardens and fountains are strewn across this summer estate of the former Archbishops of the region. Mozarts Geburtshaus (birthplace) is open in the summer, and you can visit the the museum in the summertime. Make sure you check out the giant outdoor chessboard and play with friends or strangers as a living piece!

Bregenz

Bregenz is originally a Roman city, and has much to offer in the way of history and fun. In summer, check out the Bregenz Festival where you can see live performances of Tusca and Death in Venice. Swimming and boat cruises are plentiful in the area, just head down to Lake Constance and enjoy yourself. The Casino Bregenz offers a real Austrian gambling experience, but be mindful of the dresscode and wear a coat!

Feldkirch

The final city in the Austrian Alps is Feldkirch. Here you will find the Schattenburg Castle; it dates back to the 1200s and you can eat inside the castle in the evening at some of the nice restaurants. The Ssint Nikolaus Cathedral is a great example of Gothic architecture, and be sure to see Katzenturm, the ancient cannon tower.