🇦🇹 Austria by Public Transport: A Winter Alpine Adventure! 🚞🏔️

📍 Route: Vienna → Innsbruck → Salzburg → Lake District → Vienna ❄️ Day 1: Vienna (Jetlag & Palaces) Land in Vienna via Munich. Highlights: Belvedere Palace: Klimt’s The Kiss shines. Schönbrunn Palace: Habsburg winter vibes. Tip: Use ÖBB app (Austria’s 12306) to book next-day trains. 🏔️ Days 2-3: Innsbruck – Alpine Heart Train from Vienna (4.5h): Scenic ride with snowy peaks. Explore: Nordkette Cable Car (closed – hiked instead!). Alpenzoo: Skip it – more empty cages than animals. Vibe: Quiet trails, perfect for soul-staring at mountains. 🎶 Day 4: Salzburg – Mozart & Mountains Salzburg Card (24h): Covers: Mozart’s Birthplace. Hohensalzburg Fortress (funicular included). Sound of Music locations (Mirabell Gardens). Bus Tip: Unlimited rides – hop on/off like a local. 🌊 Day 5: Lake District Magic 150 Bus from Salzburg: Stops at: St. Gilgen: Postcard lakeside. St. Wolfgang: Christmas markets (in winter). Hallstatt: Boat transfer (€10 round-trip) – arrive by 3 PM for light! Train to Gosau: Hidden hiking meadows (next stop after Hallstatt). 🚡 Day 6: Untersberg – Hidden Gem Bus 15 to Cable Car: Lesser-known peak with 360° views. Hike: Icy but epic – spikes recommended (sold at base). 🎻 Days 7-8: Vienna – Museums & Music Museum Marathon: Kunsthistorisches: Golden sarcophagi > mummies. Albertina: Monet to Picasso. Concert Hack: Standing tickets at Musikverein (€15!). 💡 Pro Tips Seat Reservations: Trains fill fast – pay extra for peace. Winter Gear: Ice cleats > broken tailbones. Tax Refund: Scan forms at airport before check-in. #AustriaByBus #AlpineWinter #BudgetEurope #NoCarNeeded