''The country is wonderful. Mountains holding up cups of snow to the fiery sun…''
English novelist George Meredith, praising the Alps in a letter to Frederick A. H. Maxse, July 1861
Snow-capped mountains dwarf a village and pastureland in the Leogang area of Austria
© AA Photo Library
Small yet beautiful, Austria has unrivaled Alpine scenery, some of Europe's finest baroque architecture, and a long musical and cultural tradition. The Austrian people also are known for their warmth and hospitality toward visitors. Straddling the center of Europe, the country has exerted a critical influence on the region's history through the centuries, becoming a major player in world politics. Today, despite loss of territory and power after two world wars, Austria retains its status as the crossroads of modern Europe. The grandeur of the mountains draws visitors from all over the world, while the combination of efficiency and charm makes Austria one of Europe's most beguiling tourist destinations.
| COUNTRY |
| Introduction |
| Things To Know |
| Survival Guide |
| TimeLine |
| Essential Info |
| REGION |
| CITIES |
| Vienna |
| Innsbruck |
| Salzburg |
| MAPS |
| World |
| Europe |
| TRAVEL BOOK |
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