Best Places for Families to Travel in Austria

Austria is a treasure trove of cultural experiences and natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for families traveling with kids. From the historic streets of Vienna to the alpine adventures in Tyrol, there's something to captivate children of all ages. Whether you're looking for educational museums, outdoor activities, or simply a charming atmosphere to explore, Austria's cities and towns offer a plethora of family-friendly options. Here are some of the best places to visit with kids, where you can create lasting memories together.

Vienna

As Austria's capital, Vienna is a hub of culture and history with a generous sprinkle of fun for the little ones. The Schönbrunn Palace offers a glimpse into imperial life and features a magnificent children's museum where kids can dress up as princes and princesses. The Prater amusement park, with its iconic Giant Ferris Wheel, provides thrills for the whole family. The oldest zoo in the world, Tiergarten Schönbrunn, is also located here, boasting an impressive collection of animals. Visit during spring or fall to avoid the crowds and enjoy mild weather. For cost-saving tips, consider purchasing the Vienna Pass for free entry to many attractions.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the chance to see the pandas at Tiergarten Schönbrunn. They are a rare and delightful sight, and the zoo's layout makes it easy to explore other exotic animals nearby.

Where to Stay & Eat: Family-friendly hotels like the Hotel Sacher offer spacious accommodations and are centrally located. For dining, try the kid-approved menus at Café Landtmann or the fun atmosphere of the Zoom Children's Museum's café.

Salzburg

Salzburg, the birthplace of Mozart, is a musical and picturesque city that families will adore. The Hohensalzburg Fortress provides panoramic views and an exciting history lesson. The Haus der Natur is a science museum with interactive exhibits that engage children's curiosity. For a magical experience, visit during the winter to enjoy the charming Christmas markets. To save on expenses, the Salzburg Card offers free public transportation and entry to many attractions.

Travel Tip: Take the funicular up to Hohensalzburg Fortress for an easy and exciting ride that kids will love, plus the views from the top are unbeatable.

Where to Stay & Eat: The family suites at Hotel & Villa Auersperg provide comfort and convenience, while St. Peter Stiftskulinarium offers a historic dining experience with options for children.

Innsbruck

Innsbruck, nestled in the Tyrolean Alps, is a paradise for outdoor-loving families. The Alpenzoo Innsbruck is Europe's highest zoo and showcases alpine wildlife. The Nordkette Cable Car takes you up to the mountains for breathtaking views and hiking trails suitable for all ages. Visit in the summer for hiking and winter for skiing. The Innsbruck Card is a great way to save on transportation and attractions.

Travel Tip: At the Alpenzoo, don't miss the opportunity to watch the feeding of the otters and the majestic birds of prey during their flight demonstrations.

Where to Stay & Eat: Nala Individuellhotel offers unique and modern family rooms, while the restaurant Die Pizzerei serves delicious pizzas that kids will love.

Graz

Graz, Austria's second-largest city, is a UNESCO World Heritage site with a youthful vibe. The interactive exhibits at the FRida & freD - The Graz Children's Museum are perfect for inquisitive minds. Schlossberg, with its playgrounds and fairytale-like clock tower, offers a great outdoor adventure. Visit in the spring or autumn to enjoy pleasant weather and fewer tourists. Look out for the Graz 3-day ticket for savings on public transport and attractions.

Travel Tip: The slide at Schlossberg is a thrilling way to descend from the hilltop and is a hit with kids and adults alike.

Where to Stay & Eat: Augarten Art Hotel provides family-friendly accommodations with a pool, and Der Steirer restaurant offers traditional Austrian dishes with a kid-friendly menu.

Zell am See

Zell am See is a picturesque lakeside town that's perfect for families who love nature and adventure. The Zell am See-Kaprun summer card gives free access to many attractions, including boat tours on the lake and entry to the wildlife park Ferleiten. Winter transforms the town into a ski paradise. Visit in the summer for lake activities or winter for snow sports. To save, book accommodations that offer the summer card for free.

Travel Tip: Take the family on the Schmittenhöhebahn cable car for stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains. The top station has a playground and several easy hiking trails.

Where to Stay & Eat: Hotel Tirolerhof offers a family-friendly atmosphere and is close to the lake, while Villa Crazy Daisy provides a relaxed dining experience with options for all ages.

Wachau Valley

The Wachau Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site along the Danube River, is known for its scenic beauty and charming towns like Dürnstein and Melk. Families can enjoy cycling along the river, exploring the Melk Abbey, and taking boat trips. The region is particularly beautiful in the spring and fall. To save money, consider renting bikes from one location and dropping them off at another to avoid round trips.

Travel Tip: Visit the Melk Abbey's interactive museum, which is especially designed to engage younger visitors with the abbey's history and art.

Where to Stay & Eat: For a family-friendly stay, check out Hotel Richard Löwenherz in Dürnstein, which offers spacious rooms and a pool. For dining, the Heurigen (wine taverns) offer local cuisine in a casual setting that's great for kids.

Seefeld in Tirol

Seefeld in Tirol is a family-friendly alpine resort town that's great for both winter skiing and summer outdoor activities. The Olympiabad Seefeld is an adventure pool complex with a dedicated kid's area. The region's gentle hiking trails are perfect for family walks. Visit in the winter for a snowy wonderland or in the summer for lush green landscapes. Look for accommodation packages that include the Olympiaregion Seefeld Card for discounts on local attractions and transport.

Travel Tip: In the summer, don't miss the thrilling summer toboggan run, which is sure to be a hit with the kids.

Where to Stay & Eat: Family & Spa-Resort Alpenpark offers family rooms and a variety of activities for all ages. For a meal, try Südtiroler Stube, which has a cozy atmosphere and dishes that cater to younger palates.