Austria

Vienna's position at the heart of many of Europe's greatest empires has left a magnificent legacy of wonderful palaces and castles, mansions and museums.

Austria is a country of startling contrasts, from the Austrian Alps in the west, to the Danube Basin in the east. It is not only famous for its excellent skiing, but also for its historical buildings, world-class museums and galleries, breathtaking scenery, magnificent mountains and established hiking trails.

The capital, Vienna, is magnificent with its ornate Opera House and the former imperial residence of the Hofburg; Austria's other cities are similarly infused with a historical magic, notably Salzburg - the birthplace of Mozart - with stunning baroque churches set before a backdrop of snow-covered peaks; and Innsbruck, in the centre of the Austrian Alps.

Whether you enjoy breathtaking scenery or culture, you will find both in abundance in Austria.