Austria

Austria dazzles with a blend of imperial charm, alpine adventure, and cultural riches. Vienna, the country's capital, brims with architectural grandeur—don't miss the Schönbrunn Palace or the striking St. Stephen's Cathedral. Art lovers should set aside time for the Belvedere Museum and the MuseumsQuartier, while coffeehouse culture invites lingering over pastries like sachertorte. West of the capital lies Salzburg, the baroque birthplace of Mozart and home to the hilltop Hohensalzburg Fortress. A walk through its Old Town feels like stepping into a storybook. For postcard-worthy mountain views and outdoor pursuits, head to Innsbruck, nestled in the heart of the Alps. In winter, the city transforms into a skiing hub; in summer, it's perfect for hiking and mountain biking. Graz, a UNESCO City of Design, charms with its Renaissance courtyards, futuristic architecture like the Kunsthaus, and a vibrant food scene. If time allows, venture to Hallstatt, a lakeside village so picturesque it inspired a replica in China—think timber houses, swan-dotted waters, and salt mine tours that trace back to prehistoric times.