Austria in summer: lakes, mountain air, culture and slow travel

When the Alps shed their snow and the meadows bloom, Austria becomes a quietly magical place to be. While much of Europe flocks to the coastline, a different kind of summer happens here—cooler, calmer, and rich with green beautiful nature and culture. Think barefoot dips in glacier-fed lakes, the distant sound of cowbells in sunlit pastures, and long lunches on panoramic terraces over historic cities or mountains. This is the alpine summer that locals have always cherished, and more travelers are starting to discover.

Where outdoor adventure meets quiet luxury

Summer in Austria is not about ticking boxes or chasing crowds. It’s a season of easy pleasures—morning swims in chrystal lakes, scenic cable car rides to mountaintop huts, and trails that lead to alpine plateaus dotted with wildflowers. Active travelers can fill their days with hiking, biking, or paragliding, but the country also rewards those who prefer a gentler pace: boat rides on turquoise lakes, spa days with mountain views, and meandering through market towns like Hallstatt or Kufstein.

The best part? It never feels rushed. There's a deep-rooted rhythm to life here in summer—a sense that the land and its people move with the seasons.

What to do and try

Swim in alpine lakes: Many of Austria’s lakes are swimmable and stunning—like Lake Wolfgang, with its emerald waters and storybook backdrop, or Achensee, framed by dramatic Karwendel peaks.
Ride the summer lifts: Mountain gondolas don’t stop in summer. Take one up for a picnic, a mountain hut lunch, or just to breathe in that crisp, pine-scented air.
Follow scenic trails: Whether you’re on foot or e-bike, there are routes for every level—from forest paths near Zell am See to the panoramic ridge walks in Tyrol.
Explore summer culture: Visit open-air operas in Salzburg, traditional Almabtriebe (cattle parades) in late summer, or contemporary art exhibitions in Vorarlberg.
Visit alpine farms: Many farms open their doors in summer, offering tastings of raw milk cheese, speck, or fresh berry schnapps—some even invite you to stay the night.

The taste of summer

Austrian food in summer is hearty but fresh—think mountain dairy, stone fruits, and herbs picked from the hillside. You’ll find dishes that are regional, seasonal, and full of comfort.

Kaspressknödel in broth (cheese dumplings with fresh chives)
Marillenknödel, an apricot dumpling rolled in toasted breadcrumbs
Brettljause, a traditional farmer’s lunch with cured meats, cheeses, rye bread and tangy pickles
Grilled trout, often caught locally and served with lemon and herbs

Pair it with a chilled Grüner Veltliner, a light alpine beer, or a glass of Almdudler, the Austrian herbal soda with a retro charm.

Where to stay

Austria’s mountain regions are home to some of the most thoughtfully designed stays in Europe. Many of the best Nice2stay homes here are set in restored farmhouses, lakeside chalets, or eco-lodges with a modern twist. Expect:

Natural materials and local craftsmanship
Saunas and spa features with alpine views
Outdoor terraces made for slow breakfasts and sunset wines
Proximity to trails, lifts, and village life

Whether you're in Carinthia, Tyrol, or the Salzkammergut, the accommodation is part of the experience—blending comfort, authenticity, and beautiful simplicity.

Who it's for

Families will find it safe, spacious and child-friendly—lakes with shallow beaches, car-free paths, and lots of animals to meet.
Couples can enjoy wellness escapes, romantic cabins, and candlelit dinners with a view, amidst historical architechture of the cities.
Active travelers have a landscape built for adventure: trails, climbs, paddleboards and more.
Design lovers and slow travelers will feel right at home in Austria’s stylish, sustainable lodges and charming historic towns.