Located in the heart of Europe, Austria is famed for its ostentatious architecture and dramatic mountain vistas.

Bordered by Germany, Slovenia, the Czech Republic, Hungary, Slovakia, Italy and Switzerland, Austria's cuisine and culture is influenced by its myriad neighbours.

Austria is the best place in Europe to take in opera, wrap your tongue around a Sacher torte in a lavish Kaffeehaus (coffee house), drink the day away in a beer hall or conquer rugged mountains with skis or hiking boots.

Austria has some of the best skiing in the world. Stunningly situated between the Tuxer mountain range and the Alps, Innsbruck is a prime outdoor adventure hub. It hosted the 1976 Winter Olympics and offers skiing and snowboarding year-round at the nearby Stubai Glacier.

In and around Austria's winter play areas are tranquil Alpine villages, with luxurious spas and resorts.

The summer months are mild, perfect for frolicking in the Austrian outdoors - cycling, hiking, biking, boating and rafting are all popular.

For those who prefer something more sedate, Austria has elaborate churches, monasteries, palaces and castles to explore, as well as historical cities packed with fine museums and markets.

Vienna, Austria's beautiful capital, is perfect for eating and strolling your way around, all the while taking in the multitude of architectural gems. A night at the Staatoper (State Opera) is high on many visitors' lists.

Survival guide

German is the language spoken in Austria and the currency is the Euro.

International airlines fly to three major airports - Vienna, Innsbruck and Salzburg. The national carrier is Austrian Airlines. Low-cost airline Ryanair flies from London to Linz, Salzburg, Graz and Klagenfurt.

You could also cruise into the country via one of the many riverboats that traverse the Danube between Austria and Germany.

Rail transportation is a good option for those who want to see Austria as part of a wider European tour; rail passes are available and will cover multiple countries.