Austria, with its majestic Alps, charming villages, and rich cultural heritage, is a wonderful country to explore year-round. But April offers a unique blend of lingering winter beauty in the mountains and early spring blooms in the valleys and cities. It’s a month of transition, ideal for travelers who enjoy fewer crowds, fresh mountain air, and seasonal experiences.
Here are the 10 best destinations in Austria to visit in April, whether you’re into nature, culture, food, or history.
1. Vienna – A Symphony of Spring and Culture
Embrace the Arts in the Austrian Capital
April is one of the best months to visit Vienna, Austria’s elegant capital. As the weather begins to warm, the city shakes off winter with renewed energy. Trees blossom along the Ringstrasse, and outdoor cafes begin to fill with locals and tourists alike.
Enjoy a walk through the Schönbrunn Palace gardens, which start to bloom with spring flowers. Visit the Belvedere Palace to see works by Gustav Klimt, or experience a concert in one of Vienna’s historic venues like the Wiener Musikverein or the State Opera.
Spring Events and Outdoor Activities
In April, Vienna hosts several classical music events and art exhibitions. Don’t miss Easter markets, which often run through early April. These feature artisan crafts, traditional Austrian foods, and local Easter customs.
The Prater Park, home to the iconic Ferris wheel, is also a great place to stroll or picnic under budding trees.
2. Salzburg – Mozart’s Hometown in Bloom
Explore Baroque Beauty and Musical History
Salzburg, the birthplace of Mozart, becomes a picturesque destination in April. Snow still caps the surrounding Alps, but the city itself welcomes spring with blooming gardens and lively streets.
Stroll through the Mirabell Gardens, framed by tulips and daffodils, with the Hohensalzburg Fortress looming above. The historic Old Town (Altstadt) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with winding alleys, charming squares, and baroque architecture.
Enjoy Cultural Events and Scenic Views
April often features classical concerts in tribute to Mozart and Easter-themed performances. You can also explore Hellbrunn Palace, known for its trick fountains and early spring displays.
Hiking the Mönchsberg or Kapuzinerberg provides panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains.
3. Hallstatt – A Fairytale Lakeside Village
Visit Austria’s Most Photographed Town
Hallstatt, nestled between the Hallstätter See and the Dachstein Alps, is breathtaking in April. This small village, with its colorful houses and alpine backdrop, looks like it came straight out of a storybook.
April is an excellent time to visit before the peak summer crowds arrive. The lake starts to thaw, reflecting the mountains and the charming town center.
Discover Nature and History
Take a boat tour across the serene lake, visit the Salt Mine, or explore the Hallstatt Skywalk, offering views from 350 meters above the village. The Dachstein Ice Caves may also begin opening to visitors, depending on snow conditions.
With fewer tourists and mild weather, April provides a peaceful experience of one of Austria’s most iconic spots.
4. Innsbruck – Where the Alps Meet the City
A Blend of Skiing and Springtime
Located in the heart of the Alps, Innsbruck is a unique city where you can ski in the morning and walk through blooming city parks in the afternoon. In April, ski resorts like Nordkette and Stubai Glacier often remain open for late-season skiing.
The city’s compact center features pastel-colored buildings, the Golden Roof, and panoramic mountain views.
Embrace the Alpine Vibe
Innsbruck’s Hofgarten is lovely in spring, and cafes begin offering outdoor seating along the River Inn. The Bergisel Ski Jump, a modern architectural highlight, provides stunning views and insight into Austria’s winter sports culture.
In April, the city also hosts cultural festivals and alpine markets, making it a versatile destination.
5. Wachau Valley – Wine, Castles, and Blossoms
A Scenic Spring Escape Along the Danube
Just a short drive from Vienna, the Wachau Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its vineyards, historic castles, and charming villages like Dürnstein and Melk.
April is apricot blossom season, painting the landscape with delicate pink and white flowers. It’s also the beginning of wine tasting season, with Grüner Veltliner and Riesling among the top local varieties.
River Cruises and Cycling Routes
April is perfect for a Danube river cruise through the Wachau, offering views of medieval castles and terraced vineyards. Cyclists also enjoy the Danube Cycle Path, which stretches through the valley with picturesque pitstops.
Be sure to visit Melk Abbey, a baroque masterpiece perched above the river.
6. Graz – A Southern Gem with Mediterranean Flair
Discover Austria’s Second City
Graz, the capital of Styria, is often overshadowed by Vienna and Salzburg, but it’s a delightful destination, especially in April. The city enjoys a relatively mild climate and begins to feel almost Mediterranean in spring.
The Old Town is a UNESCO site, blending Renaissance, Gothic, and Baroque styles. Climb the Schlossberg for sweeping views and visit the Uhrturm (Clock Tower), a symbol of the city.
Enjoy Spring Markets and Styrian Cuisine
Graz hosts lively farmers’ markets, and spring is the perfect time to try Styrian pumpkin seed oil, fresh asparagus, and local wines. The city’s parks and riverside promenades come alive with walkers and cyclists.
Cultural events and art exhibitions are common in April, especially at the Kunsthaus Graz, a futuristic museum nicknamed the “Friendly Alien.”
7. Zell am See – A Lake and Mountain Retreat
Enjoy the Best of Both Worlds
In Zell am See, you can enjoy a mix of snowy peaks and emerging greenery. Nestled beside a crystal-clear lake, this town offers both outdoor adventures and relaxation.
April is shoulder season here, meaning fewer crowds and better prices. The Kitzsteinhorn Glacier nearby still offers excellent skiing conditions into late April.
Hike, Relax, and Explore
The lakeside promenade is ideal for spring walks, and cafes begin opening outdoor terraces. You can take a scenic boat ride, or head into the nearby mountains for early-season hikes, weather permitting.
Wellness centers and spas in the area offer relaxing treatments with lake views, making it a great place to unwind.
8. Klagenfurt – Spring in the South
A Tranquil Destination by Wörthersee
Klagenfurt, the capital of Carinthia, enjoys warmer spring weather than much of Austria, making April a lovely time to visit. Located near the Slovenian and Italian borders, it combines Austrian charm with southern European influences.
Walk along the Wörthersee, a turquoise lake known for its summer popularity, but peaceful and quiet in spring.
Cultural Highlights and Scenic Walks
The Old Town features Renaissance courtyards, cozy cafés, and boutique shops. Visit the Lindwurm Fountain, Klagenfurt’s mythical symbol, or explore the Minimundus, a miniature park showcasing famous buildings from around the world.
The nearby Pyramidenkogel Tower offers incredible views of the lake and surrounding mountains, especially beautiful in April.
9. St. Wolfgang – Lakeside Charm in the Salzkammergut
A Hidden Gem in the Lake District
Located in the Salzkammergut region, St. Wolfgang is a charming lakeside town set against alpine scenery. In April, the area is peaceful and perfect for a quiet retreat.
The lake, Wolfgangsee, begins to thaw, and spring colors bring new life to the village. The Pilgrimage Church of St. Wolfgang is a historical highlight, with stunning altarpieces and frescoes.
Hiking, Boating, and Relaxation
Boat cruises resume in April, and walking trails along the lake are filled with spring flowers and birdsong. You can also take a ride on the Schafberg Railway, which begins operation later in the spring and summer.
Even if the train isn’t running yet, the lower trails are accessible, and the town’s quaint streets are ideal for leisurely exploration.
10. Bregenz – Culture on the Shores of Lake Constance
A Lakeside City with Artistic Flair
Bregenz, the capital of Vorarlberg, sits on the shores of Lake Constance (Bodensee), shared with Germany and Switzerland. It’s a beautiful destination in April, with mild weather and lovely lakeside views.
While the famous Bregenz Festival takes place in summer, April offers quieter cultural experiences and opportunities to explore the city’s museums and galleries.
Spring by the Water
Enjoy a lakeside walk or take a boat trip across Lake Constance. The Pfänderbahn cable car leads up to a viewpoint offering panoramic views over the lake and Alps. On clear April days, you can even see into neighboring countries.
The city’s Kunsthaus Bregenz features modern art exhibitions, and local restaurants begin to offer seasonal dishes on their outdoor terraces.
Final Thoughts
April is a beautiful month to explore Austria. The ski resorts are still open in some regions, while the cities and lakes begin to bloom with early signs of spring. With fewer crowds, lower prices, and a mix of cultural events and outdoor activities, April offers something for every kind of traveler.
Whether you’re wandering the imperial streets of Vienna, sipping wine in the Wachau, or enjoying alpine tranquility in Zell am See, Austria in April promises unforgettable experiences.
