[Blog] Discover Austria with Austrian Youth Hostels – Cities, Nature & Active Experiences

Austria is a country of contrasts: historic cities, alpine landscapes, crystal-clear lakes and regions that invite travellers to stay active and connected all year round. With Austrian Youth Hostels, guests experience Austria in an authentic, affordable and sustainable way – always close to culture, nature and local life.

Whether it’s a city break, winter sports holiday or an active group trip, our hostels are more than just a place to sleep. They are spaces for meeting people, sharing experiences and creating memories together.

Bad Ischl – Imperial Elegance in the Heart of the Salzkammergut

Bad Ischl is deeply rooted in Austria’s imperial past. Once the summer retreat of Emperor Franz Joseph I and Empress Elisabeth, the town still radiates timeless elegance through its historic villas, traditional cafés and the iconic Imperial Villa. Surrounded by mountains and lakes, Bad Ischl offers the perfect balance between culture and nature. The recently renovated Youth Hostel Bad Ischl is centrally located and provides bright, modern rooms for solo travellers, families and groups alike.

Mondsee – A Perfect Harmony of Water, Mountains and Culture

Nestled in the Salzkammergut region, Mondsee is one of Austria’s most picturesque lakes. The area invites visitors to slow down or stay active – whether hiking in the surrounding hills, cycling along the lake or enjoying a refreshing swim. Located close to the water, the Youth Hostel Mondsee is an ideal base for families, school groups and outdoor enthusiasts, especially during spring and summer when nature is at its best.

Villach – Your Gateway to Alpine Winter Adventures

In Austria, winter and skiing go hand in hand – and Villach is an excellent place to start. Just a short distance away, the Gerlitzen Alpe offers well-maintained slopes, modern lift systems and sweeping alpine views. After an active day in the mountains, Villach’s lively town centre, with its southern charm, cafés and historic squares, invites visitors to unwind. The Youth and Family Hostel Villach is a popular choice for skiers, families and school groups seeking comfort and convenience.The ski resorts in Nassfeld and Bad Kleinkirchheim also provide variety on the slopes.

Velden – Cap Wörth: A Unique Hostel on Lake Wörthersee

The Youth and Family Hostel Velden – Cap Wörth stands out as one of Austria’s most unique hostel locations. Situated directly on the shores of Lake Wörthersee, it features a private beach, extensive outdoor areas, a large event hall and an indoor swimming pool. Open all year round, Cap Wörth is ideal for summer lake holidays, sports camps, seminars, group stays and relaxing off-season breaks. Its proximity to Velden, Villach and the Carinthian Alps makes it an exceptionally versatile destination.

Vienna, Salzburg & Innsbruck – Timeless City Classics

Some destinations never lose their appeal. Vienna, Salzburg and Innsbruck are timeless highlights of any journey through Austria, no matter the season. Vienna blends imperial grandeur with vibrant contemporary life. Salzburg captivates visitors with baroque architecture, music and alpine scenery. Innsbruck offers a unique mix of urban culture and direct access to the mountains. Youth Hostels in all three cities provide centrally located, affordable accommodation for city breaks, group travel and international guests.

Hallstatt – World Heritage with a New Perspective

The Hallstatt–Dachstein region, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is among Austria’s most iconic landscapes. From June 2026, visitors can look forward to a new highlight: a modern cable railway connecting the village to the famous Hallstatt Salt Mines and panoramic viewing platform. With a capacity of 60 passengers per ride, waiting times will be significantly reduced. At the top, a spacious terrace offers breathtaking views over Hallstatt, Lake Hallstatt and the surrounding mountains. The Youth Hostels in Obertraun or Bad Ischl are the perfect base for exploring this world-renowned region in an affordable and active way.

Neusiedl am See – Watersports, Culture and a Mild Climate

Located in the heart of Burgenland, the Neusiedl am See is ideally positioned for discovering one of Europe’s warmest lakes. Lake Neusiedl is a hotspot for windsurfing and sailing, while the surrounding area offers cycling routes, nature experiences and a relaxed pace of life. Cultural attractions such as the Haydn Museum and the Esterházy Palace in Eisenstadt are easily accessible. Thanks to the region’s mild climate and excellent transport connections, Neusiedl am See is an attractive destination all year round.

Experience Austria – Authentic, Sustainable and Affordable

With Austrian Youth Hostels, travelling through Austria is easy, responsible and full of variety. From historic cities and alpine landscapes to lakeside escapes and active regions, Austria’s diversity is waiting to be explored.

Your next adventure starts here.