The most beautiful themed and panoramic roads
Austria’s themed and panoramic roads combine stunning natural scenery with cultural highlights. Alpine routes like the Großglockner High Alpine Road offer breathtaking views of majestic peaks and lush green valleys. Meanwhile, themed roads tell their own stories—from the gentle hills of wine routes to historic paths showcasing traditional craftsmanship and culture. Each route reveals a unique side of Austria, whether rustic and traditional or modern and unexpected.
Here, the essence of Austria comes to life: authentic, charming, and welcoming. Small moments along the way, such as meeting an alpine dairyman or visiting a lovingly restored farmhouse, make these journeys truly memorable. These roads are more than just routes—they're experiences for travellers seeking fresh perspectives and inspiration from Austria’s rich diversity.
Alpine and panoramic roads
Großglockner High Alpine Road
Driving along the Großglockner High Alpine Road is an unforgettable experience. Winding up to over 2,750 metres above sea level, the route weaves through the Hohe Tauern in spectacular hairpin bends, offering breathtaking views of towering peaks, rugged cliffs, and lush alpine valleys. Nature is at its finest here: Chamois and ibex leap across the rocks, eagles soar overhead, and marmots whistle cheerfully.
The journey culminates at the foot of the Pasterze, Austria’s longest glacier, where even more highlights await: Themed trails, interactive exhibits, and awe-inspiring vistas. Whether by car, motorbike, or bicycle, this road is more than just a route—it’s an experience that touches the soul and showcases Austria’s alpine spirit like no other.
Please note: There is often an additional toll fee for driving on Alpine and panoramic roads in Austria. Seasonal opening hours and winter closures may also apply. Find out about current conditions and toll costs in advance!
Nature theme roads
Styrian Wood Road
The Murau region is infused with the rich scent of expansive forests, home to one of the world’s most valuable resources: Wood. Here, everything revolves around this ecological treasure, combining tradition, innovation, and sustainability.
A highlight is the Wood Museum in St. Ruprecht near Murau, where visitors can explore the past and present of wood. From historic washing tubs to cutting-edge processing techniques, interactive exhibits and miniature workshops showcase how wood shapes our lives—with opportunities to try your hand at craftsmanship.
The Holzwelt Murau unites 14 communities along the Styrian Wood Route, promoting sustainable resource use and raising awareness of the forest’s importance. Here, wood is more than a resource—it’s a way of life.
On the trail of wine
Austria’s wine routes wind through picturesque regions, combining exceptional wines, culinary delights, and stunning landscapes.
In Styria, eight wine routes invite visitors to sample varieties like Sauvignon Blanc, Traminer, and Schilcher, with the Klapotetz Wine Route featuring charming traditional windmills.
The Weinviertel, home of Grüner Veltliner, boasts 400 kilometres of wine roads through scenic cellar-lined lanes, blending indulgence with history, especially in the Retzer Land.
Along the Danube, areas like Wachau, Kremstal, and Kamptal host wine festivals and offer tours through historic cultural landscapes.
Each wine route highlights Austria’s deep connection between winemaking, tradition, and lifestyle.
Cultural theme routes
Austria’s cultural theme routes uniquely combine history, art, and landscape. They wind through picturesque regions, passing historic sites, castles, churches, and museums that bring the country’s rich cultural heritage to life.
From stunning Gothic architecture to fairy-tale castles and UNESCO World Heritage sites, each route tells its own story. Along the way, visitors can enjoy cultural highlights, traditional craftsmanship, and culinary delights.
These routes offer a relaxed and inspiring way to explore Austria’s past and present while showcasing the country’s remarkable diversity.