If we had to pick just the top 5 must-see places from our trip, here's the list below! Don't miss the links to more detailed articles on each location in our blog.

1- Admont Abbey

Admont Abbey is one of those places that transports you out of time. What I loved about visiting abbeys in Austria is that you can easily spend half a day there without getting bored. The complex is made up of several buildings with a well-appointed outdoor area, a restaurant and areas to visit. We had lunch outside in excellent weather, and took time to visit every part of the Abbey. On the upper floor is a natural science museum with animal exhibits.

The highlight of a visit to Admot Abbey is the library. libraryimmense and sumptuous. Not only will book lovers be delighted, but the library itself is a cultural and visual jewel to be discovered. Entirely white, with sculptures and paintings adorning the walls and ceilings, and containing almost 180,000 books, the library is a must-see on this road-trip.

2- Wolfgangsee and the red SchafbergBahn train

Exploring Lake Wolfgangsee is a day out in itself, and in my opinion one of the most memorable of the trip. Nestled in the heart of Salzkammergut, one of Austria's most beautiful regions, this alpine lake has many facets. And there's no better way to discover the magic of the area than aboard the legendary Schafberg little red train.

We started our day in St. Wolfgang, a charming lakeside village; just a short walk from the center is the Schafbergbahn station. This little red rack-and-pinion train has been in service since 1893. Once you've settled into one of the wooden carriages, the journey begins slowly but surely: 1,190 meters of ascent on a 5.85 km route to the summit of Schafberg. We loved the climb with the kids, admiring the panorama all the way.

Once at the top, the Schafberg summit offers breathtaking views, and is probably one of the most beautiful in Austria.

3- Vienna

Vienna, the capital of Austria and a renowned city, has a unique charm all of its own. Bordered by the Danube, it harmoniously combines historical heritage with a rich cultural life. Whether you're a history buff, music enthusiast, architecture buff or simply looking for a welcoming city to explore with your family, Vienna is sure to surprise you.

As the former capital of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, Vienna has preserved many reminders of its past grandeur (Schönbrunn Palace, the former imperial palace of Hofburg). What's more, it's impossible to talk about Vienna without mentioning its classical musical heritage. As the birthplace of legendary composers such as Mozart and Beethoven, the city continues to live to the rhythm of their legacy.

Last but not least, to enjoy a hot chocolate and a local pastry in a Viennese café is an institution. Establishments such as Café Central or Café Sacher are perfect for taking a break, tasting a Sachertorte (chocolate cake) or reading a newspaper.

4- The Grossglockner Panoramic Route

If you're dreaming of a family outing that combines nature, adventure and breathtaking scenery, look no further than the Grossglockner Panorama Route. Nestled in the heart of the Austrian Alps, this legendary mountain route takes you to the foot of the Grossglockner, Austria's highest peak, while offering spectacular panoramas at every turn.

On its 48 kilometers of curves, the road passes through the Hohe Tauern National Park, offering a breathtaking view of the wilderness. The highlight of the trip? The Kaiser-Franz-Josefs-Höhe, an impressive lookout accessible by car, offering a breathtaking view of the Pasterze glacier. An ideal spot for a picnic in the mountains. And to extend the pleasure, there's even a small museum and interactive exhibits.

Open from May to October, the route is perfectly suited to families: convenient parking, welcoming restaurants, signposted trails... Everything has been thought of so that young and old alike can enjoy a moment out of time, far from everyday life, at the rhythm of the mountains.

5- The former Mathausen concentration camp

The Mathausen Memorial is a moving and meaningful visit, which I believe is a must in terms of culture and awareness. The Mauthausen Memorial is one of the most significant concentration camps of the Second World War. Located some twenty kilometers from Linz, this place steeped in history invites reflection and transmission, even within the family.

Today, the site is a memorial open to the public, with well-designed exhibitions and appropriate teaching aids. Here you can discover the history of the camp, the life of the prisoners, the conditions of detention, and above all, the poignant testimonies that bring this memory to life. For families, audioguides and adapted tours allow you to approach the subjects with sensitivity, according to the age of the children.

The site itself is impressive: the period buildings have been preserved, as has the granite quarry below, infamous for its "stairway of death". The visit does not leave you indifferent, but it is invaluable for understanding this dark period in European history.

This was a highlight of our trip, and we recommend it to families wishing to combine cultural discovery with the duty of remembrance, in a respectful and attentive way.