We are pleased to present a new Solo Travel Destination Post from Kevin, a member of the Solo Travel Society on Facebook. Kevin lives in the United States, and submitted the following report about Austria. Do you have a solo travel destination that you would like to recommend? Submit your description here, along with a few photos, and share it with fellow travelers!
Solo travel rating: 1 (1 is easiest, 3 is most difficult. Please see chart below)
Languages spoken: German, English
Hinterholmalm, Austria
Reasons to Visit Austria
If you love hiking, biking, or just being out enjoying nature, then Austria is a great choice. There are also countless opportunities to engage in the rich cultural heritage left from the Hapsburg Dynasty, visit a museum, or take in a concert.
I love Salzburg for all of these reasons. Vienna appeals to me for the cultural experience, the cafe culture, and the Heurigen or wine taverns in the foothills. Of course both cities have their historical connection to Mozart but Salzburg's is stronger and more accessible, though a bit touristy. You can visit Mozart's birthplace and other sites. In Salzburg, don't miss St. Peter Stiftskeller for lunch or dinner and a walk on the Berg for a great view of the city.
I still love Innsbruck the most because I love all the outdoor activities. If you are a powder skier, you can find great conditions at any of the many resorts just 15 minutes from city center. This summer I plan to do a mountain hut hike for a week somewhere in the Innsbruck area. You can hike from hut to hut and enjoy the spectacular beauty of the Alps. Find your hut each night, get away from technology, have dinner, and do it all again the next day.
Tulfes, Austria
Pfunderhof, from my hotel window
Ebenalp, Austria
Solo Travel Destination Rating System
Safety – 1 (1 very safe, 2 safe in most areas, 3 be cautious at all times.)
Language – 2 (1 English is first language, 2 English speakers easy to find, 3 English speakers rare)
Navigation – 1 (1 easy to navigate by transit or car, 2 poor transit, car necessary, 3 not easy to get around)
Culture – 1 (1 Similar to North America or Western Europe, 2 Different from above but relaxed and easy, 3 Challenging)
Average Rating – 1 (1 is easiest, 3 is most difficult)