1. Explore Werfen and the World’s Largest Ice Caves
An easy half-hour commute south of Salzburg is the picturesque village of Werfen, home to the incredible World of the Ice Giants (Eisriesenwelt). Billed as the world’s largest system of ice caves, this vast network of caverns covers an area of more than 30,000 square meters, with a total of 45 kilometers of underground tunnels so far discovered. Also worth a visit is nearby Abtenau, a picturesque little market town that serves as a good jumping-off point for hiking adventures and scenic drives.
By far the best way to get the most from your visit to this stunning natural attraction is to join a professionally led guided tour of the caverns. One of the best options is on a private tour of the ice caves, waterfalls, and salt mines from Salzburg. In addition to including tours of three of the top-rated tourist sites in Werfen – the massive Eisriesenwelt ice caves, the 75-meter-tall Golling waterfalls, and the historic Salzwelten salt mines – you’ll have a personal English-language guide providing fascinating commentary along the way.
This highly recommended tour also includes transportation to and from your hotel. Other highlights of these nine-hour adventures include a stop at famous Hohenwerfen Castle and a cable car ride.
2. Ah, Vienna! Take a Day Trip to Austria’s Beautiful Capital City
Although a three-hour drive east of Salzburg (or 2.5 hours by train), Austria’s capital city, Vienna, is a must-visit, whether for a day trip or an overnight stay. Long the seat of the Austro-Hungarian Habsburg monarchy, Vienna offers many memorable tourist attractions such as the spectacular Hofburg Palace, home to every Austrian ruler (and now the country’s President) since 1275.
This stunning (and very large) palace covers nearly 60 acres in the heart of the city, and boasts an impressive 19 courtyards and 2,600 rooms. The palace is where you’ll find highlights such as the Sisi Museum and the Imperial Apartments, with their fine collections of furniture, personal artifacts, and artworks.
Another Vienna must-see is the famous Spanish Riding School, home to the country’s magnificent Lipizzaner horses since 1562, tickets for this attraction’s popular demonstrations and events sell out far in advance, so be sure to book early.
Finally, no trip to Vienna is complete without stopping at the Demel Café. Perhaps the world’s most famous café, it’s known for its mouthwatering cakes and pastries, each a work of art. Founded in 1786, the ambience of this superb «food palace» doesn’t fail to impress (nor do its wonderful strudels and decadent cream-filled pastries).
