More and more Austrians want real relaxation on vacation instead of stress. No wonder: those who travel consciously discover more - and without any time pressure. Slow travel stands for a decelerated way of traveling that focuses on the quality of experiences rather than the quantity. Instead of visiting as many places as possible in a short space of time, you take time for selected destinations and experience them intensively.
Less is more - the philosophy of slow travel
Slow travel is more than just a trend: it is a conscious decision for depth rather than quantity. Instead of a full sightseeing program, you will experience real encounters, regional cuisine and local culture. You travel more consciously, more sustainably and with more depth.
The four basic principles of slow travel
A few simple principles will help you to make this type of travel a success. The following four principles show how you can slow down your journey and collect unforgettable moments.
1. Plan consciously
- Choose a destination that really interests you
- Stay longer in one place - 7 to 10 days is ideal
- Leave room for spontaneity
2. Travel sustainably
- Travel by train or bus
- Use a bike or walk
- Stay in small, family-run accommodation
- Buy locally and seasonally
3. Immerse yourself instead of traveling through
- Visit local markets and events
- Learn a few words of the local language
- Try regional specialties
- Strike up a conversation with locals
4. Stay relaxed
- Plan breaks
- Enjoy even unplanned moments
- Let yourself drift - without a rigid schedule
Why slow travel is worthwhile
Slow Travel offers you many advantages:
- Less stress: no constant packing of suitcases, no rushing from place to place
- More sustainability: less CO₂ consumption through conscious mobility
- Authentic experiences: You really get to know the country and its people
- Travel more cheaply: Less transportation costs, more local offers
The best destinations for slow travel
Would you like to slow down on vacation instead of rushing from highlight to highlight? These destinations offer ideal conditions for conscious, slow travel - with plenty of nature, cultural depth and an infrastructure that also works without a rental car.
Croatia - relaxation on the Mediterranean
Croatia is just a few hours away from Austria - perfect for a slow break by the sea.
Recommendations for travelers:
- Vis Island: authentic island life in traditional stone houses
- Pelješac: taste regional wines directly from the winemaker
- Mljet National Park: hiking between salt lakes and pine forests
- Trogir in low season: historic flair without the hustle and bustle
Albania - pristine and surprisingly close
Albania is still an insider tip - ideal for anyone looking for nature, culture and tranquillity away from the mainstream.
Recommendations for slow travelers:
- Albanian Alps: Hiking through quiet valleys and original villages
- Berat & Gjirokastra: UNESCO cities with Ottoman flair and a leisurely pace
- Ksamil & Butrint: Relaxed days on the Riviera, combined with ancient history
Sweden - experience nature with freedom
Sweden is perfect for anyone looking for peace, space and nature. Because the Allemansrätten (Everyman's Right) allows free movement and camping in nature.
Highlights for slow travelers:
- Bohusleden hiking trail: Along the west coast through forests and fishing villages
- Gotland by bike: Medieval churches and tranquil coastlines
- Dalarna: Red wooden houses on Lake Siljan
- Night train to Lapland: Experience the Northern Lights and wilderness
Bhutan - Mindfulness in the Himalayas
Bhutan focuses on quality rather than quantity - ideal for anyone who wants to experience nature and culture consciously.
Experiences that will stay in your memory:
- Paro Valley & Tiger's Nest: Spiritual hike with far-reaching views
- Bumthang Valley: Monasteries, rituals and living Buddhism
- Haa Valley: Hiking from village to village
- Punakha Valley: Staying with farming families
Costa Rica - Pura Vida in nature
Costa Rica stands for joie de vivre, sustainability and biodiversity - perfect for slow travel with a tropical flair.
Tips for a decelerated trip:
- Monteverde: Eco-lodges in the cloud forest
- Orosi Valley: Experience coffee cultivation up close
- Puerto Viejo: Caribbean feeling and cultural diversity
- Tortuguero: Watch turtles in the wild
- Corcovado National Park: Rainforest tours with local guides
Activities for a slow-paced vacation
These activities help you to calm down, be creative and experience conscious moments in nature.
- Silent retreats in monasteries or nature houses
- Yoga & meditation in the countryside
- Cooking courses with regional ingredients
- Hiking with alpacas or donkeys
- Grape harvesting with small winegrowers
- Craft courses, for example pottery or wood carving
- Reading & journaling in nature
Travel well protected - with Europäischen Reiseversicherung
Even on slow travel, the unexpected can happen - be it illness, an accident or a missed means of transport. With CompleteCover from Europäische Reiseversicherung, you are well protected. So you can enjoy your trip - with the peace of mind that you are well protected in the event of an emergency.