Backpacking in Austria is a fantastic mix of alpine nature, historic cities, and easy travel—and since you’re in Vienna, you’ve already got a perfect starting point.
🇦🇹 Why Backpack Austria?
🏔️ Alps & Nature
- Stunning alpine scenery everywhere
- Highlights:
- Zell am See – lake + mountains combo
- Hohe Tauern National Park – glaciers, waterfalls
- Great for hiking, skiing, and nature
🏰 Fairytale Towns & Villages
- Hallstatt – postcard-perfect village
- Salzburg – Mozart + baroque charm
- Innsbruck – Alps right in the city
🎼 Culture & Cities
- Vienna – imperial architecture + café culture
- Graz – underrated, youthful vibe
- Classical music, museums, and history everywhere
🧭 Backpacking Route (7–14 days)
Start: Vienna → westward
- Vienna (2–3 days)
- → Salzburg (2 days)
- → Hallstatt (1–2 days)
- → Innsbruck (2–3 days, hiking)
- Optional: Zell am See or alpine villages
🚆 Getting Around
- 🚄 Trains are excellent, fast, and scenic
- ÖBB runs most routes
- Easy to travel without a car
💡 Consider:
- Rail passes or advance booking for cheaper tickets
💰 Budget
- 💵 Budget: €60–120/day
- 🛏️ Hostels: €25–50/night
- 🍔 Food: €10–20 per meal
💡 Save money by:
- Supermarkets (Spar, Hofer)
- Free walking tours
- Staying outside city centers
🗣️ Language
- German (official)
- English widely spoken, especially in cities
⚠️ Things to Know
- Very safe and clean
- Can be expensive (similar to Germany)
- Weather varies a lot in the Alps
🎒 Who It’s Perfect For
- First-time backpackers ✔️
- Nature + hiking lovers ✔️
- Culture & history fans ✔️
💬 Bottom line
Austria is one of the easiest and most beautiful countries to backpack—especially if you like mountains + charming towns + efficient travel.