5 Largest Cities in Austria: Innsbruck, Salzburg, Linz, Graz, and Vienna

Austria is home to some of the most beautiful and historic cities in Europe, all of which offer a unique blend of culture, tradition and modernity. We will tell you about Austria’s largest cities by population, from the smallest to the great capital Vienna. Whether you're interested in history, culture, education or nature, these cities show what Austria is all about.

‍

‍

Innsbruck: the Alpine treasure

Population: ~132,000

As the capital of Tyrol, Innsbruck is an impressive blend of medieval history and alpine adventure. The compact city center is home to iconic landmarks such as the Golden Roof, a gleaming Renaissance structure that has become a symbol of the city. Ambras Castle, perched on a hill, combines Renaissance architecture with cultural significance and hosts both a museum and music concerts. Innsbruck is a year-round attraction for outdoor enthusiasts, who can enjoy world-class skiing in winter and hiking in summer. The surrounding mountain landscape is both a playground and a dramatic backdrop to the city’s vibrant cultural life.

Famous for:

• Ski resorts and winter sports

• Golden Roof (Goldenes Dachl)

• Alpine Zoo

• Bergisel Ski Jump with stunning views

• Swarovski Crystal Worlds (nearby in Wattens)

• Tyrolean Folk Art Museum

• Nordkette mountain range (accessible by cable car)

Don't miss our video on Instagram about this charming city!

‍

Salzburg: the birthplace of Mozart

Population: ~157,000

Salzburg is a city of timeless charm, internationally renowned as the birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and the setting for the popular musical The Sound of Music. The old town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a masterpiece of baroque architecture with narrow streets and large squares.

Cultural life in Salzburg revolves around its music festivals, with the Salzburg Festival being a highlight in the global classical music calendar. Visitors can explore sights such as Mozart’s birthplace, the imposing Hohensalzburg Fortress and the Mirabell Gardens, which offer a view straight out of a fairy tale. Salzburg’s culinary scene shines during the Christmas season with Christmas markets and traditional dishes that create a magical atmosphere.

Famous for:

• Birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart

• Salzburg Festival (world-renowned classical music festival)

• Hohensalzburg Fortress (one of Europe’s largest medieval castles)

• Mirabell Palace and Gardens

• Old Town (UNESCO World Heritage Site)

• Sound of Music filming locations

• Salzburger Nockerl (local dessert)

‍

Linz: Austria’s creative and technological hub

Population: ~212,000

Linz, the third largest city in Austria, is a pioneer in the combination of technology and art. Once an industrial center, Linz has transformed itself into a modern, future-oriented city. The Ars Electronica Center, also known as the “Museum of the Future",” is a testament to Linz’s innovative spirit and showcases the latest developments in science and digital media.

Cultural landmarks such as the Lentos Art Museum and the Brucknerhaus underline Linz’s commitment to the arts. Located on the Danube, Linz also offers scenic river cruises and bike paths that connect other regions. This dynamic city is increasingly becoming a center for culture, technology and business.

Famous for:

• Ars Electronica Center (museum of the future)

• Linzer Torte (oldest cake recipe in Europe)

• Pöstlingberg (hilltop church and panoramic views)

• Lentos Art Museum

• Danube River and cruises

• Mariendom (New Cathedral, Austria’s largest church)

• Brucknerhaus (concert hall)

‍

Graz: largest city after Vienna and a student Hub

Population: ~302,000

Graz, Austria’s second largest city, seamlessly combines history, culture and a youthful flair. The old town, once the residence of the Habsburgs, is a breathtaking collection of Renaissance and Baroque architecture that has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Schlossberg with its iconic clock tower offers breathtaking views over the city and is an absolute must-visit.

Graz is also known for its lively cultural scene. The avant-garde festival Steirischer Herbst and the Styriarte music festival bring international artists and visitors to the city every year. The four major universities with their almost 50,000 students, which fill the city with innovation and dynamism, also contribute to the city's energy. In addition to its cultural appeal, Graz also has a thriving industry that produces machinery, textiles and the famous Austrian beer, among other things.

Famous for:

• Schlossberg (hilltop fortress with Uhrturm clock tower)

• Murinsel (floating island in the Mur River)

• Kunsthaus Graz (modern art museum)

• Old Town (UNESCO World Heritage Site)

• Styrian wine and pumpkin seed oil

• Eggenberg Palace (Baroque palace)

• Graz University of Technology (impressive architecture)

‍

Vienna: Austria’s Grand Capital

Population: ~1.9 million

Vienna is not only the most populous city in Austria, but also its political, cultural and economic heart. Steeped in history, the city was the epicenter of the Habsburg Empire, and its imperial legacy is reflected in landmarks such as Schönbrunn Palace, the Hofburg Palace and the Vienna State Opera.

As a city of music, Vienna celebrates its heritage as the home of classical composers such as Beethoven and Strauss, while also nurturing a vibrant modern art scene. The Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a balance between preserved baroque streets and cutting-edge technology.

Vienna’s quality of life is recognized worldwide, with its green spaces, efficient public transport and cultural offerings. From the lively Naschmarkt to the tranquil Danube Island, Vienna has something for everyone. The city’s different districts, such as the trendy Neubau and the historic Innere Stadt, make the city a mosaic of experiences.

Famous for:

• Schönbrunn Palace and Gardens

• St. Stephen’s Cathedral (Stephansdom)

• Vienna State Opera

• Hofburg Palace (Imperial Apartments and Sisi Museum)

• Belvedere Palace (Klimt’s The Kiss)

• Prater Amusement Park and Giant Ferris Wheel

• Viennese coffee culture and Sachertorte

• MuseumsQuartier (cultural district)

‍

Let's wrap it up!

Austria is a country with a rich heritage, history and culture. A visit to Austria means stepping back into the old Europe of the early 20th century. It’s a place where you still see old coachmen lazily steering their horses and people hurrying to work in traditional costumes. In Austria, you sometimes get the feeling that time has stood still.

Austria can be imagined in many ways. It is the former empire whose influence once stretched across much of Europe, the “kingdom” of music with its soothing waltzes and a paradise for foodies with its excellent beer, delicious pork sausages and melt-in-the-mouth strudel. But Austria is also known for its ski resorts and mountains, whose slopes are among the best in Europe in terms of skiing, infrastructure and terrain.