Sightseeing in Bad Gastein and surroundings
Excursions in the Gastein Valley
Bad Gastein itself is already one of the top places to visit in Bad Gastein and among the most iconic spots in Salzburg province. The famous Bad Gastein waterfall in the centre, the striking Belle Époque architecture and the natural thermal water – all before you even leave the town.
In the Gastein Valley and beyond, you’ll find countless things to do in the Gastein Valley: excursions, sights and nature experiences for families, couples and solo travellers. Diverse and full of unique charm.
Alpentherme & Felsentherme
Thermal spas
The Gastein Valley is home to two major thermal spas, fed by natural thermal water at 40–47°C. The Felsentherme Bad Gastein sits right in the centre, built into the rock with outdoor pools, a 70-metre slide and a thermal waterfall.
The Alpentherme in Bad Hofgastein covers over 36,000 m² and features a variety of themed areas – from the Family World with slides, a saltwater aquarium and current channel to the Sauna World, one of the largest sauna landscapes in the Alps.
Both spas are open year-round and are the perfect addition to your adventure holiday in Salzburg province.
Panoramic views of alpine huts in the Gastein Valley
Sportgastein
Take a morning and drive along the Gastein Alpine Road up to Sportgastein at 1,590 metres. Passing waterfalls, dense forests and ever-expanding views of the Hohe Tauern National Park with every turn.
On your way up or down, traditional alpine huts in Gastein invite you to stop and enjoy local specialities. One of Austria’s most scenic panoramic roads – and a popular choice for things to do in the Gastein Valley in both summer and winter.
An entire valley as a highlight
Beautiful Gastein Valley
Bad Gastein was once a meeting place for European aristocracy. Emperors, kings and artists came here to relax. The Belle Époque architecture still reflects this today, as does the famous Bad Gastein waterfall flowing through the town centre.
Take time to explore the full diversity of the valley: Bad Hofgastein with its wide promenades, and the peaceful village of Dorfgastein. Three places, three characters – one valley full of unique impressions and places to visit in Bad Gastein.
Nature right on your doorstep
Hohe Tauern National Park
Turquoise mountain lakes, ancient glaciers, waterfalls among the highest in the world and alpine meadows with stunning peaks – the Hohe Tauern National Park is truly breathtaking. Bad Gastein lies right at its heart.
Your host family, the Zitkas, know the best routes and guide you on hikes deep into this landscape – including quieter paths away from the crowds. A highlight for things to do in the Gastein Valley.
Salzburg province highlights
Salzburg – Mozart’s city as an excursion
Just 85 km from the hotel lies one of Europe’s most beautiful cities. Salzburg impresses with its medieval old town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hohensalzburg Fortress above the rooftops and a rich culture from Mozart to the famous Salzburg Festival.
Easy to reach: with the Guest Mobility Ticket, included from arrival to departure, you can travel from Bad Gastein or Bad Hofgastein to Salzburg in around 1 hour 16 minutes by train. The ticket covers all public transport in Salzburg province. A perfect day trip for couples or families.
Discover even more in the region
More excursions in and around Bad Gastein
The region offers many worthwhile things to do in the Gastein Valley – and the list goes on.
For personal recommendations, our reception team and the Zitka host family are always happy to help during your stay.
- Hohenwerfen Castle
- Hallein Salt Mine
- Eisriesenwelt Werfen – largest ice cave in the world (summer only)
- Krimml Waterfalls – Europe’s highest waterfalls
- Liechtenstein Gorge and Kitzloch Gorge
- Grossglockner High Alpine Road
- Kaprun High Mountain Reservoirs
More from your holiday in the Gastein Valley
The Gastein Card – your advantage
The Gastein Card is ready for you on arrival at Hotel Sonngastein and opens up many opportunities across the valley. Guided hikes and mountain bike tours are free, with up to 50% discounts on museums, exhibitions, mountain lifts and thermal spas.
In summer, enjoy yoga and herb walks; in winter, ski touring and snowshoe hikes. Using the card lets you experience more things to do in the Gastein Valley – far beyond the usual. All in addition to the extensive guided activity programme offered by our hotel.