The UNESCO Sites in Austria have resulted from the recognition of 12 cultural and natural landmarks as UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Austria and 10 locations on the Austria UNESCO tentative list. These touristic sites in Austria are acknowledged for their unique and valuable cultural, natural, artistic, and historic significance, and are preserved for future generations to enjoy.
In addition to these 12 sites in the Austria UNESCO list, there are many other places to travel to Austria that are being considered for UNESCO recognition. These sites, listed on the tentative list, showcase the rich cultural heritage of the country and are waiting for approval to join the prestigious and famous World Heritage Sites list.
To help visitors discover these remarkable Austria tourist attractions, we have put together an interactive map of the UNESCO sites in Austria.
Austria UNESCO Map
Click markers to show information and photo.
World Heritage Sites in Austria
UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Austria
There are 12 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Austria. All of these three sites are listed under the Cultural category.
- City of Graz – Historic Centre and Schloss Eggenberg
- Fertö / Neusiedlersee Cultural Landscape
- Frontiers of the Roman Empire – The Danube Limes (Western Segment)
- Hallstatt-Dachstein / Salzkammergut Cultural Landscape
- Historic Centre of the City of Salzburg
- Historic Centre of Vienna
- Palace and Gardens of Schönbrunn
- Prehistoric Pile Dwellings around the Alps
- Semmering Railway
- The Great Spa Towns of Europe
- Wachau Cultural Landscape
- Ancient and Primeval Beech Forests of the Carpathians and Other Regions of Europe
UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Austria are protected locations for their cultural and natural importance.
City of Graz – Historic Centre and Schloss Eggenberg
The City of Graz – Historical Centre and Schloss Eggenberg is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Graz, Austria. The historic center of Graz features a well-preserved medieval cityscape that reflects the influence of different cultures, including the Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque periods. The Schloss Eggenberg palace on the city’s outskirts is an impressive example of Baroque architecture and features a beautiful park and gardens. The site is an outstanding example of a harmonious integration of architecture, art, and landscape and provides insight into the history and culture of Graz and Austria as a whole.
Fertö / Neusiedlersee Cultural Landscape
The Fertö / Neusiedlersee Cultural Landscape is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that spans the border of Austria and Hungary. This unique cultural landscape consists of a shallow lake, Neusiedlersee, surrounded by vineyards, wetlands, and traditional villages. The landscape has been shaped by centuries of human activity, including the development of traditional agriculture, viticulture, and the construction of vernacular architecture. The site is not only a testament to the relationship between human communities and the environment but also to the cultural exchange that has taken place between Austria and Hungary over the centuries. The Fertö / Neusiedlersee Cultural Landscape is a prime example of the harmonious coexistence between people and nature.
Frontiers of the Roman Empire – The Danube Limes (Western Segment)
Frontiers of the Roman Empire – The Danube Limes (Western Segment) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Europe. This site features the remains of the Roman Empire’s western frontier, known as the Danube Limes. The Danube River was the natural border between the Roman Empire and the barbarian tribes to the north. The Western Segment of the Danube Limes was a crucial defensive barrier for the empire. The site includes a variety of fortifications, walls, and other defensive structures that illustrate the strategies and tactics used by the Romans to protect their empire. It is a fascinating historical site that provides insight into the military might and technological advancements of the ancient Roman Empire.
Hallstatt-Dachstein / Salzkammergut Cultural Landscape
Hallstatt-Dachstein / Salzkammergut Cultural Landscape is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Austria. This cultural landscape is renowned for its natural beauty and rich cultural history. Human activity has shaped the region for over 7,000 years, and its towns and villages feature well-preserved examples of traditional Alpine architecture. Visitors can explore the picturesque town of Hallstatt, which dates back to the Iron Age and is known for its salt mines. The site also includes the stunning Dachstein mountain range, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Overall, the Hallstatt-Dachstein / Salzkammergut Cultural Landscape is a unique and captivating destination that offers a glimpse into Austria’s rich history and natural beauty.
Historic Centre of the City of Salzburg
The Historic Centre of the City of Salzburg is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Austria. It is famous for its exceptionally well-preserved Baroque architecture and urban design, which dates back to the 17th and 18th centuries. The city’s Old Town area is particularly noteworthy, featuring narrow, winding streets and numerous ornate buildings and landmarks, including the Salzburg Cathedral, the Hohensalzburg Fortress, and the Mirabell Palace and Gardens. The city’s musical heritage is also celebrated here, as it was the birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and is home to the renowned Salzburg Festival. Overall, the Historic Centre of the City of Salzburg is a captivating blend of artistic and architectural achievements, with a rich history and cultural significance that continue to draw visitors worldwide.
Historic Centre of Vienna
The Historic Centre of Vienna is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the heart of the Austrian capital. It encompasses the city’s Old Town, characterized by a unique blend of architectural styles, including Gothic, Baroque, and Art Nouveau. The site features some of Vienna’s most iconic landmarks, such as St. Stephen’s Cathedral, the Hofburg Palace, and the Vienna State Opera. It also includes the historic district of Innere Stadt, which has been the political and cultural center of the city for centuries. The Historic Centre of Vienna is a testament to the city’s rich history and cultural significance, making it a must-see destination for visitors to Austria.
Palace and Gardens of Schönbrunn
The Palace and Gardens of Schönbrunn is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Vienna, Austria. The site encompasses the Schönbrunn Palace, a former imperial summer residence, and its beautifully landscaped gardens and park. The palace is a remarkable example of Baroque architecture and interior design, featuring opulent rooms and furnishings that offer a glimpse into the lavish lifestyle of the Habsburg monarchy. The gardens, which cover an area of 1.2 square kilometers, are a masterpiece of landscape design, with various ornamental and botanical features, including fountains, statues, and greenhouses. Today, the Palace and Gardens of Schönbrunn are one of Austria’s most visited tourist attractions, attracting millions yearly visitors.
Prehistoric Pile Dwellings around the Alps
The Prehistoric Pile Dwellings around the Alps is a UNESCO World Heritage Site consisting of 111 archaeological sites in six countries around the Alps region of Europe. The sites are remnants of prehistoric settlements built on the shores of lakes or wetlands and are notable for their well-preserved wooden structures, artifacts, and organic materials. These settlements provide essential insights into the daily lives and cultural practices of the people who inhabited the region during the Neolithic and Bronze Ages. The sites are spread across Austria, France, Germany, Italy, Slovenia, and Switzerland. They are a testament to the diversity and complexity of human settlement in this region over thousands of years.
Semmering Railway
The Semmering Railway is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Austria. It is a historic railway built in the mid-19th century to connect Vienna with the Adriatic Sea. The railway is known for its impressive engineering, with 16 viaducts, 15 tunnels, and more than 100 stone bridges, all built with great skill and care to blend harmoniously with the surrounding landscape. The Semmering Railway is considered a masterpiece of civil engineering and a pioneering railway construction work. It continues to operate as an important part of Austria’s transportation infrastructure.
The Great Spa Towns of Europe
The Great Spa Towns of Europe is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that comprises 11 spa towns located in seven European countries, including Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, France, Germany, Italy, and the United Kingdom. These towns were developed during the 18th and 19th centuries and were popular destinations for wealthy and famous individuals seeking thermal waters’ healing powers. The towns boast impressive architecture, including bathhouses, colonnades, hotels, and beautiful parks and gardens. The Great Spa Towns of Europe are not only a testament to the historical importance of spa culture in Europe but also offer a glimpse into the social and cultural life of the aristocracy during this era.
Wachau Cultural Landscape
The Wachau Cultural Landscape is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Austria. It stretches for about 36 kilometers along the Danube River and encompasses a beautiful section of the Wachau Valley. This cultural landscape is renowned for its stunning natural scenery, rich history, and unique cultural traditions preserved for centuries. Visitors can explore the picturesque villages, historic towns, and impressive architectural landmarks that dot the landscape, including the medieval castle ruins of Dürnstein and the imposing Benedictine Abbey of Melk. The Wachau Cultural Landscape is a breathtaking destination that offers a fascinating glimpse into Austria’s rich cultural heritage.
Ancient and Primeval Beech Forests of the Carpathians and Other Regions of Europe
The Ancient and Primeval Beech Forests of the Carpathians and Other Regions of Europe is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that spans twelve European countries. This site comprises 78 protected areas that preserve some of the world’s oldest and most pristine beech forests. These forests date back to the last Ice Age and have evolved, creating a diverse range of habitats for various plant and animal species. The site is essential for its ecological value and cultural significance as it has played a crucial role in the local communities history, folklore, and economy.
Austria UNESCO tentative list
- Cultural Landscape of “Innsbruck-Nordkette/Karwendel”
- Iron Trail with Erzberg and the old town of Steyr
- Bregenzerwald (Bregenz Forest)
- Abbey of Kremsmünster
- Heiligenkreuz Abbey
- Hochosterwitz Castle
- Cathedral of Gurk
- National Park “Hohe Tauern”
- Hall in Tyrol – The Mint
- Großglockner High Alpine Road / Großglockner Hochalpenstraße
Tours in Austria
Our choices of tours in Austria are divided into thematic features such as Vienna, Salzburg, and Eisriesenwelt Experience.