Austria

Austria, officially the Republic of Austria, is a landlocked country in East Central Europe which borders the Czech Republic, Germany, Hungary, Italy, Liechtenstein, Slovakia, Slovenia, and Switzerland. The country covers an area of 83,871 km², making Austria somewhat smaller than Portugal (92,090 km²), or slightly smaller than the U.S. state of Maine. The country is mostly dominated in the west and south by mountains (the Alps). Austria's highest point is Grossglockner mountain, with a height of 3,798 m (12,460 ft.). The major rivers north of the watershed of the Austrian Alps are the Inn, the Salzach, and the Enns, they are tributaries. Austria has a moderate continental climate which brings warm summer days with cool night and cold sunny winters with lots of snow during the ski season of December to March. Austria is a year-round destination and you should plan your visit based on the types of activities you wish to enjoy. June to September (summer) sees lots of sunshine and low rainfall making it the perfect time for hiking in the mountains and exploring the bigger cities. From November to March (winter) it is cold with plenty of snow, perfect for those wanting to take part in winter sports such as skiing. It is also a nice time of year to visit some of the smaller villages on the edge of the Alps because of the festive spirit and spectacular scenery.