Explore Austria's Hidden Gems This Summer Season

As the 2025 summer season approaches, Austria welcomes GCC travellers seeking refreshing escapes, cultural immersion, and alpine adventure. Whether breathtaking landscapes, rich history, or vibrant cityscapes, Austria promises unforgettable travel moments for every visitor.

This summer, four standout destinations beckon with exceptional offerings: the legendary Grossglockner High Alpine Road, the panoramic Danube Tower in Vienna, the majestic Salzburg Burgen, and the serene natural beauty of Carinthia.

Grossglockner High Alpine Road – A Drive into the Clouds

No summer in Austria is complete without experiencing the legendary Grossglockner High Alpine Road. This spectacular 48-kilometre route winds through the Hohe Tauern National Park, leading visitors deep into the heart of the Alps. With 36 dramatic hairpin bends and an elevation reaching 2,571 metres at Edelweiss Peak, the road offers panoramic views of more than 30 three-thousand-metre peaks.

Along the way, visitors can stop at themed hiking trails, educational exhibits, and scenic viewpoints. At Kaiser-Franz-Josefs-Höhe, the journey's crowning point, guests are treated to awe-inspiring vistas of Austria's highest mountain, the Grossglockner, and the mighty Pasterze Glacier.

Families can join guided ranger tours, explore interactive visitor centres, and even spot marmots or ibex in their natural alpine habitat. As the road marks its 90th anniversary in 2025, it continues to stand as one of the most iconic experiences in the Alps.

Danube Tower – Vienna from a New Perspective

Rising high above the Austrian capital, the Danube Tower offers a unique way to explore Vienna in summer. At 252 metres tall, the tower's rotating restaurant and café provide a 360-degree view of the city's elegant skyline and green surroundings. As the sun sets, the sky turns vivid shades of orange and pink, offering visitors one of Vienna's most beautiful backdrops for a meal or a quiet moment above the bustling streets.

The Danube Tower features an exhilarating 165-metre-high slide for the more adventurous – a thrill combining excitement and unforgettable views. Open daily with extended summer hours and easily accessible by public transport or car, the tower offers a refined yet exciting experience ideal for couples, families, and solo travellers alike.

Salzburg Burgen – Castles that Tell a Story

Austria's rich history comes alive through the magnificent Salzburg Burgen, a collection of castles and fortresses set amidst the country's alpine beauty. These historical landmarks take travellers back to the Middle Ages, combining cultural depth with breathtaking scenery.

Hohensalzburg Fortress, one of Europe's best-preserved castles, dominates Salzburg's skyline. Its impressive towers and halls provide insight into centuries of royal heritage.

Further south, Hohenwerfen Castle offers falconry shows and medieval exhibitions that engage visitors of all ages. Mauterndorf Castle completes the experience with immersive storytelling and costumed tours, making history accessible and entertaining. Seasonal festivals, classical concerts, and cultural events excite these timeless settings.

Carinthia – Austria's Lake and Mountain Paradise

In Austria's southernmost region, Carinthia invites travellers to immerse themselves in a world of turquoise lakes, rolling hills, and snow-capped peaks. Known for its warm summer climate and laid-back atmosphere, the region is a favourite for families, nature lovers, and photographers alike.

The wooden Pyramidenkogel tower, rising 100 metres above Lake Wörthersee, offers sweeping 360-degree views of the surrounding lakes and mountain ranges. The Skywalk Gartnerkofel platform provides another breathtaking vantage point, with views stretching across the Hohe Tauern and the Dolomites.

With more than 1,200 lakes, accessible hiking trails, and abundant picnic spots, Carinthia is a place where travellers can relax, explore, and connect with Austria's natural beauty at their own pace.

Austria continues to attract strong interest from the GCC region. Its blend of scenic landscapes, rich heritage, and family-friendly experiences proves particularly appealing to visitors from the Middle East. From high-altitude adventures to peaceful lakeside escapes, these destinations showcase the diversity and warmth that make Austria a perfect summer choice.

Michael Tauschmann, Head of Markets Middle East at Austria Tourism, said: "Austria continues to be a top choice for travellers from the GCC, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and meaningful experiences. From scenic alpine drives and mountaintop views to historic castles and tranquil lakes, the country invites visitors to explore at their own pace and connect with its diverse landscapes and heritage. This summer, we look forward to welcoming more guests from the region to experience the charm and magic that make Austria truly unforgettable."

As travel continues to grow throughout 2025, Austria remains committed to delivering experiences that are both accessible and exceptional. With direct flight connections, welcoming infrastructure, and a deep respect for its natural and cultural treasures, Austria is poised to offer GCC travellers a summer season filled with inspiration, discovery, and lasting memories.