Austria is a beautiful country to explore. Located in Central Europe, Austria is a relatively small country that is easy to reach on a road trip. While its size won't make you unhappy, Austria has many incredible, best places to see everywhere. This article will share some really cool places, hopefully you will like it.

1. Hallstatt

Hallstatt often claims to be the oldest village in Austria, and its views are truly stunning! Surrounded by alpine huts and small streets, Hallstatt is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site protected for future generations. Now, getting to the city can be a bit of a hassle, especially since the train station is on the other side of the lake.

That said, you can take a ferry and take a day trip to wander the town - remember not to miss the last boat on the way back. Upon arrival, stroll the side streets, relax in the central square, and enjoy the one-of-a-kind views.

2. Wachau

Wachau is one of those locations that may not immediately come to mind when considering Austria, but it should be on the itinerary. Only 90 minutes away from Vienna, it's a beautiful place full of local vineyards, canals and historic castles.

Once you're here, set off on the Wachau World Heritage Trail, stopping at Spitz, Joching and Holzapfel Vineyards to enjoy. Here you can enjoy delicious snacks and a traditional Austrian lunch at Gasthof Goldenes Schiff (Spitz).

3. Ehrwald

If you love the outdoors, Ehrwald is one of the best places to visit in Austria, situated in the beautiful region of Reutte. It sits on the border with Germany and is crowned by the incredible Zugspitze, Germany's highest mountain. Once you get here, be sure to cross the trails in the area.

Then go to Holzerstubn for the best dumplings. This is a proper warming therapy.

4. Wildsee Lake & Seefeld

Seefeld is one of the best places in Austria to visit in any season and time of year. In summer, you can boat and swim on Lake Wildsee, which is perfect for those hot days. If you like hiking in summer, follow the trail to the Kaltwassersee for incredible views of the area.

5. Pabneukirchen

Now, the Pabneukirchen region may not seem like a typical tourist destination, but it's an area one completely forgets on a road trip in Austria. When you're here, head to a charming farm stay at Wanderreithof Heimelsteiner, a place that truly makes you feel at home as soon as you arrive.

After a little bit of orientation, you'll head out into the surrounding area to experience horseback riding and even have a barbecue over a crackling fire. It's really a special experience. You might also make some furry friends here!

6. Gmunden

Gmunden is the kind of city that has it all! Beautiful castles, as well as the shores of Lake Traunsee, make this one of the best places to travel around Austria. Gmunden used to be a place frequented by the wealthy and now, you can easily stop by for a day or two to explore the area.

Once you're here, be sure to visit Schloss Ort, a castle nestled in a lake. Afterwards, take a look at the Rathaus and take a tour of this beautiful lake.

7. St Gilgen

St. Gilgen, situated on the shores of Lake Wolfgangsee, is one of the best places to visit in northern Austria. Once you're here, be sure to take the steam train up the Schaffberg Mountains and enjoy the views along the way.

If you're a movie buff, you might recognize the Schaffberg train, which is featured in The Sound of Music. For a gourmet meal, head to the Gasthaus Gimsenwirt restaurant for delicious grilled venison.