Are you looking to experience the stunning alpine villages of Austria?
With its breathtaking mountain views, quaint cobblestone streets, and medieval buildings, visiting an alps village in Austria is a must-do on any European travel itinerary.
While cosmopolitan cities like Vienna and Salzburg have their charm with its history rich palaces, nothing quite encapsulates the heart of the Austrian atmosphere like a visit to a small alpine village.
From Hallstatt to Heiligenblut and beyond, here are 12 picturesque alpine villages in Austria that will stay in your mind long after you’ve left them behind.
1. Hallstatt
The small town of Hallstatt takes your breath away from every point of view.
This is one of the oldest settlements in Austria.
People settled here around 7000 BC, hoping to exploit the salt reserves in the mountains.
The expectations were justified and thousands of years of salt extraction have provided the city's residents with an impressive level of prosperity.
However, the history of the ancient town is not the only source of attraction, it is also the surrounding picturesque natural views – the lake with the same name, mountains and ancient buildings.
If you want to step into a fairy tale book, then Hallstatt is just so charming and suitable for a scenic trip.
Read also: Top Attractions & Things to Do in Hallstatt, Austria
2. Alpbach
Only about 2,600 people live in the alpine village of Alpbach, but it is known by a large part of the world as one of the most beautiful corners of the earth.
The picturesque alpine village is located in the sun-kissed mountains, where the streets are filled with tempting wooden houses.
The village is honored as the most beautiful village in Austria, as well as the most blooming village in Europe, thanks to the flower arrangements that are spread all over the town and the pretty wooden huts.
In the summer, guests are recommended to go hiking and cycling to enjoy the wonderful views of the village, while in the winter you must go skiing and ice skating.
Read also: Places to visit near Innsbruck, Austria
3. Mayrhofen
Mayrhofen is an alpine village situated in the stunning Zillertal Valley in Austria.
It's a popular winter ski resort, but also the perfect base for exploring the area in summertime.
Many visitors are drawn to Mayrhofen for its picturesque alpine buildings, cafes and shops, as well as the two cable car stations that take visitors up into the mountains on either side of the valley.
At 2000m there is Lake Ahorn which can be accessed via the Ahornbahn cable car!
There are lots of exciting activities to enjoy around Mayrhofen, such as taking a steam train to nearby Zell am Ziller and the Arena Coaster alpine toboggan.
Or why not jump on a bus to explore further - Hintertux Glacier boasts skiing 365 days of the year, and it hosts an ice cave tour at 3250m!
Read also: 12 Best Ski Resorts in Austria
4. Heiligenblut
Heiligenblut translates as "holy blood". The site is home to a 13th century church believed to hold an authentic vial of the blood of Jesus Christ.
Most likely, the name of the city arose precisely because of this. Most of the visitors are Christians who want to see the holy relic, but more and more choose this town as a destination for its breathtaking scenery and mountains.
The alpine village's location is close to Austria's highest overland road - Grossglockner High Alpine Road, so it should definitely be planned for a visit.
During the winter, the town is a popular destination for skiers, as it is located at the foot of Austria's highest mountain, the Grossglockner.
Read also: 19 Top places to visit in Austria
5. Lienz
This small alpine village is close to the Italian border and is often referred to as the 'Pearl of the Dolomites'.
Lienz is one of the sunniest villages in Austria, with an average of 2,000 hours of sunshine each year.
The small village boasts a medieval town center, downhill skiing and Bruck castle, which has been converted into an art museum and exhibits works by world masters.
For the more active, it is definitely worth going to the Hohe Tauern National Park, where, for example, you can go hiking along nature and mountain trails, as well as simply enjoy the views of the scenic city and surroundings.
Read also: Top Attractions & things to do in Salzburg, Austria
6. Finkenberg
Finkenberg stands out not only for its picturesque mountain landscape, but also for the opportunity to ski and enjoy winter pleasures all year round, for example at the Hintertux Glacier.
The possibility of skiing throughout the year exists due to the height of the mountains, which attracts winter lovers to this place even in the summer season.
Therefore, if you want to finally experience the joys of skiing during your summer vacation, this scenic town will be the right place to go.
The small village is home to only about 1,500 residents, including the notable Peter Habler, the first person to climb Everest without an oxygen mask.
Tourists and those interested are also attracted by the ancient and rich history. In the city, you can see, for example, an 18th-century church with early Baroque reinforcement works.
On the other hand, the Devil's Bridge, built in 1876, shows a rare and unique example of the old Tyrolean woodworking technique.
Read also: Top Attractions & things to do in Innsbruck, Austria
7. Marie Alm
The small alpine village of Marija Alma is a delightful and charming ski resort.
Due to the picturesque landscapes and the excellent winter recreation place, the resort is popular with both the former president of Germany and the popular F1 pilot Keke Rosberg in the 1980s.
However, it is not only in winter that there is something to see and enjoy here, in summer it is recommended to go hiking, rock climbing and cycling along nature trails to catch the inspiration and views of the mountain town.
It is also recommended to explore the possibilities and take the Almer Wallfahrt pilgrimage, which will allow you to enjoy the local churches and the mountain road.
Read also: Places to visit near Salzburg, Austria
8. Bad Gastein
Bad Gastein, located in the Austrian High Tauern mountains, has oftentimes been a hidden gem due to its off-the-beaten-path location.
This picturesque ski and spa alpine village is known for its luxury hotels and villas built on the steep, forested slopes.
A popular destination for families who are seeking winter snow activities, it is also an ideal summer destination. Hikes, biking, swimming in crystal clear lakes can all be experienced when visiting the four surrounding mountains of Stubnerkogel, Schlossalm, Graukogel, and Fulseck.
Whether looking for a winter ski vacation or summer adventure getaway off the crowded path of tourists, Bad Gastein could be your perfect spot!
Read also: Visit Dachstein Krippenstein in Obertraun, Austria
9. St. Wolfgang
Also in St. Wolfgang, every guest can enjoy the splendor of nature and excellent recreation opportunities in a historic but small town.
As the name of the town suggests, it is located on the shores of Lake Wolfgang. In this particularly picturesque place, a church built in the 14th century is worth seeing. It is believed that the site of the church was chosen by the bishop of Regensburg St. Wolfgang.
The city is the end point of a pilgrimage that takes followers from St. Wolfgang's grave in Regensburg to the city.
The historic church houses a detailed altarpiece, which some say is the most remarkable work of Gothic art in Austria.
After exploring the history, it is possible to go hiking, do other sports such as cycling, and just enjoy the wonderful natural scenery.
Read also: 10 must-see lakes in Austria
10. Krems
The beautiful place with the seductive original name of Krems an der Donau is one of the most attractive small villages in Austria.
It is located in the historical Wachau Valley. Although the village was officially established in the 10th century, archaeological findings show that people inhabited it several millennia earlier.
Krems is famous for its wine and historic city center, with the added bonus of one of the most beautiful river valleys in Europe.
This combination attracts many guests and interested parties. Although Krems is recognized as a wine town, one of the must-try things is the apricot brandy created there called "Marillenschnaps".
Read also: Best sights & things to do in Wachau Valley, Austria
11. St. Gilgen
Sankt Gilgen is located on the northwestern shore of Lake Wolfgang, surrounded by picturesque mountains.
The village is a popular day trip destination from Salzburg, but there is plenty to see and enjoy on a longer trip as well.
The small village is a great place to relax on the water, such as windsurfing, sailing, cruises, and it is also possible to go on a cable car ride.
You don't need to go high in the mountains to catch your breath. In the medieval village, beautiful scenery and natural views are around every corner.
History buffs will surely enjoy a walk through the city's streets, where you can enjoy the charm of a medieval village and observe the colorful Austrian mountain huts.
Read also: Places to visit near Salzburg, Austria
12. Feldkirch
Feldkirch is an alpine town located in Austria at the border of Switzerland and Liechtenstein.
It is known for its well-preserved history with the Schattenburg Castle being a dominant feature.
Once famous for its cobbled streets, winding city gates, towers and majestic St. Nikolaus Cathedral, Feldkirch continues to charm visitors with its old-world atmosphere.
For those looking for more than just relaxation, several festivals take place during spring and summer to bring cultural events to this picturesque alpine town.
Read also: Top Attractions & Things to Do in Hallstatt, Austria
And Finally… Austria is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. With its towering Alps and its quaint Alps villages, Austria will offer you the breathtaking views and experiences that you can only get from this world-famous country.
Whether your interests lie in biking, skiing, snowboarding, or simply having a picnic by one of the magnificent glacial lakes, Austria has something for everyone.
From romantic Hallstatt to rustic Feldkirch, these twelve must-see alps villages will be sure to offer an unforgettable journey.
Go explore these incredible mountain villages and experience the wonders of Austria firsthand. Get ready to take in the stunning landscapes and immerse yourself in the local culture—after all, it’s never too late to make memories that will last a lifetime!
