According to forum posts, the Austrian Alps offer a variety of thrilling outdoor activities suitable for adventure seekers. Travelers have highlighted mountain biking and hiking in areas like Saalbach, Hinterglemm, and Leogang, which are known for their extensive trails and scenic views. Additionally, there is a 16km downhill trike run at Wildkogel and a zip wire experience called the flying fox in Leogang.

For water enthusiasts, the post mentions wakeboarding and rowing on the Danube Island, although October might be too late for these activities. During winter, users recommend non-skiing activities such as tobogganing and snowmobiling in picturesque resorts like Saalbach-Hinterglemm and Zell am See. These resorts also offer pedestrian lift tickets and have facilities like outdoor pools and museums.

For those looking for unique experiences, some travelers suggested exploring less crowded areas for activities like paragliding and mountaineering in the Salzkammergut region. It's worth noting that many of these activities are seasonal, with availability reducing as winter approaches in October.

According to forum posts, Vienna, Salzburg, and Hallstatt are highly recommended cities to visit in Austria. Some travelers specifically mentioned enjoying the cultural and historical aspects of Vienna and the scenic beauty of Salzburg and Hallstatt.

Travelers have called out the Salzkammergut region, particularly St. Gilgen and St. Wolfgang, as must-visit areas near Salzburg. This region is known for its beautiful lakes and mountain scenery, making it ideal for nature lovers.

For those interested in further exploring Austria, other posts suggest visiting Zell am See for its lakes and Innsbruck for its mountain landscapes. The town of Graz was also mentioned for those looking to explore more urban environments within Austria.

According to forum posts, Austria offers rail passes like the ÖBB Vorteilscard, which provides discounts but is most beneficial when purchased well in advance. Discounted tickets, known as Sparschiene, are available for early bookings and are significantly cheaper than regular fares.

Travelers have called out that besides the national rail service ÖBB, there is also Westbahn, a private company operating trains mainly on the Vienna-Salzburg route. Both provide efficient services, but Westbahn is noted for not being overly expensive even without discounts.

For many users, planning train travel in advance is crucial to snagging the best deals, especially for longer routes. Some travelers suggested using regional tickets like the Einfach-Raus-Ticket for shorter journeys within Austria, which can be cost-effective.

Some travelers said to check train schedules regularly, especially during periods of track maintenance or strikes, as these can affect travel times and availability. Websites like www.oebb.at and www.westbahn.at are recommended for the most current information and bookings.

According to forum posts, travelers recommend several day trip destinations from Salzburg. St. Gilgen, St. Wolfgang, and the Wolfgangsee area, including a possible ferry ride across the lake, are highly suggested. These locations offer scenic views, local markets, and the unique experience of the cog railway in St. Wolfgang.

For many users, the 150 bus is a convenient option for reaching these destinations from Salzburg. The bus service runs late, allowing visitors to enjoy evening markets. Additionally, ferry services connect various towns around Wolfgangsee, enhancing the travel experience between these picturesque locations.

Some travelers have called out Hallstatt and the Dachstein Glacier as worthwhile day trips, although they are in a different direction and might require more travel time. Others suggest incorporating a visit to Bad Ischl, which can be easily accessed via bus from Salzburg.

Some travelers suggested Hotel König von Ungarn and Hotel Altstadt as good options in Vienna. Hotel Altstadt, located west of the MuseumsQuarter station, offers suites with divided sleeping areas, ideal for families needing privacy. It is also praised for its breakfast and afternoon drinks.

According to forum posts, the Innere Stadt (1st District) is highly recommended for its centrality and proximity to major attractions. Hotels like Hotel Kaiserin Elisabeth and Hotel Motel One Wien Staatsoper were recommended for their central locations and value. Hotel Motel One Wien Staatsoper, specifically, was noted for stylish accommodation at less than 120 euros per night.

For those with a slightly higher budget, the Levante Parliament was mentioned as offering a twin room with breakfast for around 153 euros, located just outside the center. This hotel provides a balance of comfort and proximity to Vienna's attractions.

According to forum posts, a vignette is required for driving on Austrian autobahns and motorways. Travelers have called out that these toll stickers must be displayed on the inside windshield of the vehicle.

Some travelers mentioned that vignettes can be purchased at petrol stations near borders or directly at border crossings before entering Austria. It is also possible to buy a digital vignette online if you know the vehicle's registration plate number in advance.

For those opting for a digital vignette, there is usually an 18-day activation rule before it becomes valid, though some exceptions allow for immediate use when purchased at specific physical locations. As of December 2023, the 18-day waiting period for 1-day and 10-day digital vignettes has been abolished.

Forum users have highlighted that not all roads require a vignette; local and state roads can be used without one. However, for convenience and to avoid potential fines, purchasing a vignette is advisable if there's any possibility of driving on the autobahn or motorways.

Some travelers mentioned St. Anton, Lech, Zurs, and Ischgl as popular ski resorts in Austria, known for their extensive ski areas and luxury accommodations. These resorts are particularly recommended for their challenging slopes and high-quality facilities, though they can be more expensive and crowded, especially during peak seasons.

For family-friendly skiing, Saalbach-Hinterglemm and Zell am See-Kaprun are highly recommended by forum users. These resorts offer a variety of skiing options suitable for all ages and skill levels, alongside amenities like ski schools and children-friendly activities. Saalbach-Hinterglemm, being part of the Ski Circus area, provides access to a vast network of slopes on a single lift ticket.

Travelers looking for less crowded alternatives suggested Obertauern and SkiWelt, which comprise smaller villages like Westendorf, Ellmau, and Soll. These areas are appreciated for their apres-ski atmosphere and are suitable for all levels of experience. Obertauern is particularly noted for its snow reliability and ski-to-door convenience.

According to forum posts, Vienna and Salzburg are highlighted as having must-visit Christmas markets. Vienna offers multiple markets across the city, providing a variety for visitors to explore over several days. Salzburg is noted for its beautiful setting and excellent market, making it a prime location for Christmas shopping and festivities.

Some travelers mentioned specific markets in Vienna, such as the ones at City Hall, Belvedere, and Karlsplatz, as being particularly noteworthy. In Salzburg, the markets at Salzburg and Hellbrunner are recommended. These markets are famed not only for their wide range of crafts and foods but also for their festive atmospheres that enhance the holiday experience.

For those seeking a less urban experience, the Wolfgangsee area near Salzburg offers a unique Christmas market experience. Travelers can visit markets in three villages around the lake, accessible by ferry, providing a picturesque and tranquil Christmas market experience in a stunning lakeside setting.