Looking to escape summer heat? 4 places in Austria offer perfect getaway
The best places to visit in Austria for a summer getaway (photo: Getty Images)
In summer, when the heat in cities becomes unbearable, Austria offers the perfect escape with its cool alpine lakes, majestic glaciers, and charming towns where every corner is picture-perfect.
RBC-Ukraine takes a look at some of Austria's top summer destinations and how much such a trip is likely to cost.
Hallstatt and the Salzkammergut region
A classic that fully comes into its own in summer. Lake Hallstättersee is surrounded by rocky mountains, while the town itself looks as if it came straight from the pages of a fairy tale.
In addition to its Instagram-worthy views, it is worth visiting the oldest salt mine in the world and going up to the 5 Fingers viewing platform, which literally hangs over the abyss.
Zell am See
A unique place where, in summer, you can combine a beach holiday on the crystal-clear Lake Zell with walks on the real Kitzsteinhorn glacier.
Even in July and August, there is snow at an altitude of more than 3,000 meters, where a modern cable car will take you in just a few minutes.
Grossglockner High Alpine Road
This is 48 kilometers of pure adrenaline and beauty. Europe's most famous panoramic road leads to the foot of Austria's highest mountain.
In summer, fantastic trekking routes open up here, where you can meet Alpine marmots and see the melting Pasterze Glacier with your own eyes.
Lake Wörthersee
If you still miss the atmosphere of a seaside resort, this is the place for you. It is Austria's warmest lake, with water warming up to 25-27°C (77-81°F) in summer, located in the very south of the country. It has a special Mediterranean vibe, stylish beach clubs are open, and the water has an incredible turquoise shade.
How much a summer holiday in Austria costs
When planning a budget for summer 2026, it is worth considering that expenses will vary greatly depending on the atmosphere you choose.
If you opt for a peaceful holiday among mountains and cool lakes in the Salzkammergut region, accommodation in a good 3-4-star hotel for five days for two people will cost between 450 and 650 euros.
Authentic cuisine and meals will require another 250-350 euros. Since this region is made for eco-trekking, set aside about 120 euros for activities, including lifts and entry to the famous caves.
For those looking for a more social scene and a beach vibe on the warmest Lake Wörthersee, the financial picture will be different. Accommodation here is more expensive, especially on the first line, ranging from 600 to 900 euros for five days.
Dinners at restaurants and beach clubs will take about 300-450 euros from the budget, while up to 80 euros is usually enough for entertainment itself, such as boat rental or entry to private beaches.
Be sure to get a regional guest card at your hotel, such as the Zell am See-Kaprun Summer Card or the Salzkammergut Card.
It is usually free at check-in and gives you free access to cable cars and entry to most locations, saving up to 150 euros per person.
