Austria


At a glance

Austria sits at the crossroads of Central Europe, known today for its idyllic and majestic landscape. The country’s mountains, green valleys, rivers and storybook villages make for one of the most beautiful places in all of Europe. Cultural centers of Vienna and Salzburg are truly incredible. The elegance and genuinity of culture is impressive and intriguing. Vienna is popular mainly for its Opera House and various cathedrals, while Salzburg is home to The Sound of Music and Europe’s largest intact medieval fortress. Wherever you are in this country, you’ll be in awe. From cobblestone streets to impressive stain glass churches and endless forests and babbling brooks, Austria is absolutely a must-see.

Why cyclists love it

  • A plethora of well-marked, nearly traffic-free asphalt trails
  • Flat, downhill cycling with some rolling hills, perfect for families or cyclists looking for easy and leisurely routes
  • Areas of short, steep ascents and undulating hills for more experienced riders seeking a challenge
  • Unforgettable scenery
  • Delightful locals
  • Warm weather from May through September

Austria stories

On the BikeTours.com blog:

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Popular regions

Austrian Alps
I mean, who hasn’t heard of the Alps? With breathtaking scenery, the Alps is one of Europe’s most famous regions. Known for the sunny days and fresh mountain air, the Alps are absolute perfection. Highlights of this area include the Krimml Waterfalls, Europe’s highest and most quaint farming villages, and mysterious medieval towns. All framed by mile-high mountains. Every site to see here is truly unbeatable!
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Lake Constance
Lake Constance is home to Europe's most popular cycling route. The lake borders three countries – Austria, Germany, and Switzerland. Come here, and you’re sure to have a 360 degree view of turquoise lakes, against the seemingly unreal backdrop of the snow-capped Alps.
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Danube River
The Danube River flows from Passau, Germany across the border to Vienna, on its way from the Black Forest to the Black Sea. Following the Danube River to Vienna is the Danube Bike Path, a dedicated, paved biking path. This route is one of Europe’s most famous cycling paths, especially ideal for families. The path provides many "bail out" options, allowing cyclists to hop on a boat or train at any point for any number of sightseeing opportunities.
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Salzburg Lakes
Salzkammergut (Salzburg Lake) features over 76 crystal lakes, rock faces and imposing mountains. The region includes Hallstatt, one of Austria’s most picturesque villages overlooking Lake Hallstatt. Biking is a great way to experience the scenery of this region.
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Tour spotlight

Budapest to Vienna: Castles and Lakes (guided)
On this beautiful tour, you will ride from Budapest to Vienna along the nicest areas of Lake Balaton and Lake Fert, through picturesque landscapes and vineyards, and through untouched woods and charming villages of West Hungary. You'll visit the famous Herend Porcelain Manufacture, tour splendid castles, see beautiful medieval towns, and much more.
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Danube Bike and Boat: Passau - Budapest - Passau
Enjoy three enchanting European capitals: lively Vienna, Slovakian capital Bratislava, and the "Hungarian Queen" Budapest. Discover the stunning spectacle of the Schlögener Donauschlinge, the "Great Loop".
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Danube Family Bike Tour (self-guided)
Designed especially for families, this tour offers shorter daily distances along the Danube Bike Path. The tour includes many activities and attractions perfect for children, including a fairy-tale ride on the grotto railway, a stop at an adventure park and a ride on Vienna’s giant Ferris wheel. 
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Danube Impressions Bike and Boat Passau - Vienna - Passau (self-guided)
Biking along the Danube is always a pleasure, especially when the hotel is always with you! Witness the incredible natural beauty and rich culture of Austria, while meandering your way through Vienna and Passau. End your day on a boat, relaxing at the panorama-bar or in your cozy cabin. Highlights of this tour include the Danube Flood Plain National Park, Linz and the World Heritage Site of Wachau.
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Innsbruck to Salzburg: Through the Alps Along River Cycle Trail (self-guided)
This tour takes you along the beautiful Alps from Innsbruck to Salzburg. In Innsbruck you will follow the wide valley of the Inn river passing little historical cities like Wattens, Hall or Schwarz. On both sides you will see huge, impressive mountain ranges and sometimes you will even see a glacier.
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Salzburg Lakes Tour: Ten Lakes in the Foothills of the Alps (self-guided)
Let your spirit soar, cycling a tour that in many ways transforms cliches into realities. This beautiful tour seems almost unreal. Beginning in Salzburg, this tour travels through the lakes and mountains of the surrounding region. Highlights include Oberndorf and the old Kaiser town, Bad Ischl.
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Lake Constance Classic (11 nights)
Cycle the most popular route in Europe! On this tour you'll cycle around the entire lake through Austria, Germany, and Switzerland. The daily routes are short so you can see the full variety of sights and scenes.
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Tauern Bike Path (Salzburg to Salzburg) (self-guided)
While on this loop tour on the Tauern Bike Path, you’ll witness the majestic Alps and Krimml, Europe’s highest waterfalls. This tour allows a straightforward, fairly easy route for cyclists, all while providing non-stop awe-inspiring views at every turn.
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Fast facts

Language: German
Currency: Euro
Population: 8,217,280
Size: 32,382 square miles (83,871 square kilometers) - Slightly smaller than Maine
Capital: Vienna
Border Countries: Czech Republic, Germany, Hungary, Italy, Liechtenstein, Slovakia, Slovenia, and Switzerland
National tourist office: www.austria.info