Austria is a land of diversity, shining out from the heart of Europe. It has a cross of cultures, influenced by its several neighbors, and a vibrant history offering everything from imperialistic architecture to innovative design

Vienna is a treasure of endless discoveries where the modern and historical sit side by side; linking the passage of time and whisking you back to the Habsburg era or planting you firmly in the modern day, Or there's Salzburg, a baroque beauty with cobbled streets and coffee houses. With the picturesque scenery of Wachau and Hallstatt or the Alps surrounding Innsbruck, Austria has everything from cycling to walking, wellness to dining, winter through to summer.

No other country is so closely  associated with culture and 2006 will see magnificent celebrations occurring in Vienna, Salzburg and other towns and cities for the 250th anniversary of Mozart's birth. Mozart the musical genius is beloved worldwide and there will be thousands of events celebrating his life and works.

Traveller's Secrets
Where to Eat - Vienna

Restaurant Griechenbeisl
Fleiscmarkt 11, A-1010

Vienna's oldest restaurant dating back to 1400. Traditional and cosy, over the centuries it has been the meeting place of eminent artists, scientists and politicians such as Beethoven, Mark Twain, Strauss, Grillparzer and Count Zeppelin. Serves traditional Vienesse food with a contemporary touch. Open daily 11am-12.30am.

Restaurant Drei Husaren
Weihburggasse 4, A-1010

Next to St Stephen's Cathedral, the legendary Drei Husaren serves a variety of cuisines accompanied by top international wines. A charming restuaurant combining ancient tradition with modern cuisine. Open daily 12pm-3pm & 6pm-1am.

Café Sacher Wien
Philharmonikerstrasse 4, A-1010

A visit to Vienna wouldn't be complete without trying the famous Sacher Torte. Experience the typical Viennase coffee house atmosphere whilst deliberating over their fine selection of Austrian pastries and cakes. Open daily 8am-12am.

Where to Shop - Vienna

Streets
Mariahilferstrasse, Vienna's longest shopping street, stretches from the Ring to the West Railway station. You'll find almost every type of retailer, 2 department stores and a wide variety of restaurants, cafes and fast food outlets. The pedestrianised areas of Karntner Strasse and the Graben are favourites and great for those that love to shop!

Augarten Parzellan
Stock-im-Eisen Platz 3, A-1010

Founded in 1718, this Viennese porcelain manufacturer has been producing fine hand made china for almost 3 centurues. Ideal for those looking to take something typically Viennese home with them.

Wein & Co.
Jasomirgottstrasse 3-5, A-1010

Vienna's largest wine outlet with shelves loaded with Rheinrieslings, Blauburgunder, Blaufrankisher and obscure Austrian wines. Great for an original souvenir or gift.

Where to Eat - Salzburg

K&K Restaurant am Waagplatz
Waagplatz 2, A-5020

Housed in a historically listed building, this elegant restaurant has a reputation as one of Salzburg's finest. Only steps away from Salzburg Cathedral, the 8 small dining rooms spread over 4 floors creates a unique atmosphere. Serves fine Austrian cuisine and select wines.

Stiftskeller St Peter
St Peter-Bezirk 1/4, A-5020

Central Europe's oldest restaurant, established in 803. Situated in St Peter's Monastery, the historic surroundings make for a memorable experience. Serving typical Austrian dishes and creative specialties.

Café Sacher Salzburg
Schwarzstrasse 5-7, A-5020

A typical Austrian coffee house and the perfect place to treat yourself to the original Sacher Torte. There's also home made pastries and small cold and cooked dishes. In spring and summer, admire the view over the old town from the terrace.

Where to Shop - Salzburg

Streets

Getreidegasse, Salzburg's most famous shopping street is where you'll find brand name shops, Swarovski crystal, old time confectioners like Schatz Konditorei and much more. Judengasse, Linzergasse and Residenzplatz are also other popular shopping areas.

Lahrm
Universitatsplatz 5

One of Salzburg's premier jewellers that stocks both contemporary and antique pieces.

Salzburger Heimatwerk
Am Residenzplatz 9

A lovely shop situated directly beneath the Glockenspiel Tower selling hundreds of craft items from hand blown glass to silk scarves and blouses.