Austria is one of Europe’s most inspirational destinations. Some places demand a flop, drop, and switch-off holiday; others enrich with their cultural, historical, and musical heritage. We can think of no better destination than Austria to tick all three boxes, particularly the latter one.
We’ve compiled Austria’s most inspiring events – from classic to avant-garde – to help you plan that pitch-perfect vacay.
THE HILLS ARE ALIVE
Music in the Austrian Alps isn’t all Do-Re-Mi. Don’t believe us? Attend the InnStrumenti concerts by the Tyrolean Chamber Orchestra.
Encompassing themes such as sacred music and contemporary composers, InnStrumenti delivers in both sound and sight.
At 2000m, concertgoers reach the venue aboard the legendary Patscherkofelbahn Gondola. It’s genius: pairing high elevation with elevating music, against the stunning Innsbruck backdrop!
GRAND PASSION
The tradition of the Passion Play often draws visitors to Europe but Austria’s Passion Play Erl is the oldest running (in German-speaking countries), with a less touristic profile.
With performances dating back over 400 years, Erl’s Passion Play dramatically depicts Jesus’s life from his trial to death.
SOUNDS LIKE SUMMER
Innsbruck’s Imperial Palace is the type of venue that demands big brass bands, chamber orchestras, and melodious choirs to fill its gothic courtyard.
The Innsbruck Promenade Concerts fills that remit every July without charging a cent. Soothing sounds accompany the Tyrol’s balmy summer evenings, with food and drink available to make a night of it.
SURROUND SOUND
Credit: Matic CC
There is a lot more music diversity to Austria than violins and string quartets. Salzburg’s Electric Love festival perhaps offers the biggest contrast to the country’s classical music reputation.
If you like to throw your hands in the air to banging beats from renowned DJs, then nab a ticket to Electric Love, held every July.
A NATURAL HIGH
The Mountain Yoga Festival, located in the Tryrolean Alps’ St Anton, offers a stunning backdrop to incorporate a little Zen into your vacay.
Every September, lycra-clad yogis reconnect with nature through mountainside downward dogs, epic hikes, and a whole lot of fresh-air inhales and om exhales. It’s a ‘wow’ holiday add-on.
BETTER BY DESIGN
Austria is smashing the artistic glass ceiling this year with the Design Month Graz, an annual homage to creativity.
Graz, a UNESCO City of Design, is where innovation and culture collide. Get inspired amid the city’s picturesque red-roof buildings and narrow cobblestone streets. Held May to June, this year’s Design Month Graz is Women & Design.
AFFAIR OF THE ART
If a more contemporary performing arts scene fills your heart, then time your Austrian holiday with the 2-week Sommerszene Salzburg showcase.
Every June, the country’s leading avant-garde productions across dance, theatre and artistic performances allure visitors to the city.
‘TIS THE SEASON
Schönbrunn-Palace
To us, nothing says ‘Austrian classic’ more than a yuletide celebration. In the four week lead up to Christmas, all throughout Austria, Christmas Markets pop up throughout the country from big cities to small towns.
You can enjoy the festive atmosphere, shop for Christmas decorations or indulge in a arm mug of mulled wine. The snow-covered roofs, cheery locals and seasonal treats make a visit the any of the Christmas markets in Austria a must see experience.
To discover more of Austria’s cultural events and festivals, visit the Austria Tourism website.
Written by Zoe Macfarlane, a KARRYON contributor