Austria in shoulder season — best decision I made

Visited Austria in shoulder season deliberately and the decision paid off completely. Melk Abbey without peak crowds is a totally different experience. Hallstatt felt lived-in rather than touristy. Found a small place doing the best Tafelspitz I've ever tasted — something that would have been invisible in high season when everything fills with visitors.

stunning alpine scenery was particularly magical with fewer people around. The weather was fine. The prices were better. If you have flexibility, avoid peak season.