Tour of Austria – Your Complete Guide to the Biggest Cycling Race in Austria
If you love bike racing or just want a cool way to see Austrian scenery, the Tour of Austria is the event to watch. Every summer the race rolls through mountains, lakes and towns, giving riders a mix of tough climbs and fast flats. It’s not just for pros – locals and tourists line the roads, cheer loud, and soak up the festive vibe.
What makes the Tour of Austria special?
The race started in 1996 and quickly grew into a UCI Europe Tour staple. What sets it apart is the variety of stages: one day you’re climbing Alpine passes, the next you’re sprinting through historic city streets. The route changes each year, so fans get fresh scenery every edition. Plus, Austrian towns love the event; they host fan zones with food stalls, music and local crafts, turning a sport into a mini‑festival.
How to enjoy the race live or on screen
You have three main ways to catch the action. First, hit the road: many stages start and finish in towns with easy public transport links. Grab a day ticket for the start line, bring a blanket, and you’re set. Second, watch online – most years the race streams on the official Tour of Austria website and on big sports platforms like Eurosport. Finally, check local TV listings; Austrian channels often broadcast daily highlights and full stage replays.
For the best live experience, arrive early to grab a good spot near the finish line or a steep climb where riders battle the gradient. Bring water, sunscreen and a hat – the summer sun can be harsh on exposed roads. If you’re traveling from abroad, consider staying in nearby cities like Salzburg or Graz; both have train connections to many stage towns.
Top stages you can’t miss
The Alpine Stage is usually the most dramatic, featuring climbs up passes that test even the strongest riders. The Danube River stage offers beautiful flat stretches and often ends in a sprint finish, perfect for watching high‑speed tactics. Finally, look out for the “City Sprint” stage – it finishes in a historic town square with cheering crowds and fireworks.
Travel tips for fans
Book accommodation early – hotels fill up fast around popular stage towns. Hostels and Airbnb options are cheaper if you’re on a budget. Use Austria’s efficient train system; regional trains stop close to most start/finish zones. If you drive, check road closures – the race often blocks major routes for safety.
Enjoy local food while you’re there. Try an Austrian pretzel or a plate of schnitzel after a long day of watching. And don’t forget to snap photos of the mountain scenery; the Tour of Austria gives some of the best backdrops in European cycling.
Cycling Community Mourns: Tour of Austria Neutralised After Tragic Death of André Drege
The Tour of Austria's final stage was neutralised following the tragic death of Norwegian cyclist André Drege. After falling during a descent, the decision to replace the stage with a condolence ride was made in consultation with teammates, family, and race organizers. The cycling community worldwide, including the Tour de France, has paid tribute to Drege.
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