When you think of Austria, you probably think of mountains, Nazi occupation, quaint traditions, classical music, Julie Andrews skipping through the meadows and picturesque hillside towns. Which - aside from an impressive modernest take on architecture in many of the larger cities (and Nazis, of course) - is pretty much what you'll get.

The enchanting baroque buildings of Vienna stand proud amongst a city fast developing into a dynamic center for classy cuisine, contemporary museums and an enviable, pulsating nightlife. The palaces and museums skirting the capital’s aging squares welcome promenading locals every evening, chattering and relaxing as they wonder through the characteristic city’s giant green spaces.

Salzburg is equally characterful. The classic home of Mozart has a skyline flooded with endless church spires, while proud residents occasionally walk the city clad in lederhosen or ride the cobbled streets in horse drawn carriages. Amadeus provides the soundtrack to the vibrant café scene too, focused along the banks of the rushing Salzach, and to a walk around the massive Schloss Mirabel and its manicured gardens.

Of course, many come to Austria to experience the Alps, following in the footsteps of the cast of The Sound of Music in trotting above the clouds through gently sloping fields of flowers, past ornate churches and flocks of bell-laden goats. The tiny lanes of alpine Innsbruck offer the perfect mountain stereotype, set against a backdrop of soaring peaks and featuring aging palaces, breakneck skiing and a surprisingly lively nightlife. The steep, glacier-carved valleys of the nearby Tyrol district also draw world-class plant and board sliders throughout winter.

Krimml Falls – gushing down the entire length of a sizable mountain valley – is Europe’s biggest and sometimes iciest waterfall. In gentle Bregenzerwald you’ll find pointy limestone peaks and clanging cows, as well as evenings in front of open fires in your own wooden chalet feasting on freshly made local cheese. Back in the valleys, second city Graz is a cultural hub with palaces and hot springs to compliment its characteristic red rooftops and miles of vineyards.

With a lively cultural scene and ambiance that hints at east and west, Austria’s uber-modern stylings don't overwhelmed its classical past. Grateful visitors can explore dreamlike alpine vistas without sacrificing cutting-edge modern hospitality and vivacious city scenes.

Austria is famous for it's cakes. The most famous of these is Sachertorte.