An important empire of the past, a small country in Central Europe today, Austria by excellence mirrors the diversity of Europe, combining nature of mountains, mountain lakes and romantic valleys of the Danube basin with the historical and cultural wealth of its cities. And when we say 'cities', we do not only mean Vienna, but also Graz, Austria's second largest town, Salzburg, the city of Mozart, and more. A lot remains to be discovered indeed beyond the reach of the reports here at hand. But that goes without saying, because Austria is such a densely interesting country that it takes a lifetime to explore it all. So, energised with a Gulashsuppe, a Wienerschnitzel or a couple of Mozartkugeln, let's get started with Vienna and 'Niederösterreich' and with two other important cities, Graz, for a while the residence of Habsburg rulers, and Salzburg, with its castle rock from where the eternally snow-capped ridges of the Alps are visible on the horizon, inviting us to more discovery in these magnificent lands.