The Danube - A Highlight of Walking in Austria

The Danube is largest river in Europe and the second-largest river in the entire continent after the Volga. Its natural beauty and grand visage, however, are what make it truly incredible - especially for travellers walking in Austria. There are many sights and sounds to be experienced while walking along or near the Danube, with the following being some of the more exceptional examples.

Hofburg Palace

The Hofburg Palace is one of Vienna's most striking landmarks and once housed the rulers of the former Austrio-Hungarian Empire - the Hapsburg dynasty. Lovers of history and fine art should visit this grand old palace while on a holiday walking in Austria. The various wings of the palace are decorated according to particular aesthetic and functional purposes. The Swiss Wing, the Imperial Stable (Stallburg), the Amalienburg, and the Imperial Chancellory Wing all have their own unique stories to tell to the observant visitor.

Schönbrunn Palace

Schönbrunn in Viennese means "beautiful spring", which is an apt description for this grand marriage of verdant gardens, intricate sculptures and inspiring architecture. The French Garden, the Gloriette Garden and the Roman ruins, each with their own distinct personalities, all add to the majesty of the Schönbrunn Palace. The Neptune Fountain, located in the Gloriette, is one of the most particularly striking pieces of all - with the ancient Roman god surrounded by nymphs, goddesses and mortal champions. These and other various points of interest inside the compound are must-sees.

The Belvedere Palace

The Belvedere is another majestic structure that has become a cornerstone of Austrian culture, with its dramatic Baroque architecture stirring grand and sweeping emotions in those who visit. One of the primary highlights of the Belvedere, however, is its museum. The Österreichische Galerie Belvedere, aka the Austrian Gallery of Belvedere, houses a collection by many significant artists. Some of the more famous pieces include Gustav Klimt's "The Kiss," Claude Monet's "Gartenweg," Hans Makart's "Dame am Spinett," and Egon Schiele's "The Embrace."

Vienna Stage Opera

Whilst on a holiday walking in Austria, make sure to visit one of the country’s most beloved centres of artistic expression and architectural wonder. It is also home to the Vienna Philharmonic, which consistently ranks as one of the world's finest orchestras. The Opera House itself is designed with Neo-Renaissance sensibilities in mind, meaning plenty of impressive staircases, freestanding buttresses and flowing lines of design. It was originally damaged by American bombers nearing the end of World War II, but it was rebuilt exactly as it was - preserving its beauty for future centuries.

Grinzing

If you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and go walking in Austria through its picturesque landscape, the delightful village of Grinzing is an excellent choice. Not only is the area rich with forested ridges and cresting hills you can take your time strolling through, but Grinzing is also famous for its wine and grape juices. If you know how to appreciate a glass of fine wine, you really must make time to relax and enjoy the serene landscapes of Grinzing with a glass of wine in hand.

Keep all these attractions in mind and you will find your experience richer, more fulfilling and most unforgettable.

Tony Maniscalco is the Marketing Manager for Ramblers Worldwide Holidays. Join us on a holiday walking in Austria to see the most scenic locations & landscapes at the best value prices. We offer over 140 guided group walking holidays in over 60 different countries.

Writer and Online Marketing Manager in London.