Essential Travel Information for Visiting Austria

Here is the Essential Travel Information you will need to make any trip to Austria a success!

Best Time to Visit

• Spring (April to June): Enjoy mild weather and blooming landscapes. Great for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

• Summer (July to August): Ideal for hiking, festivals, and lake visits. Peak tourist season.

• Autumn (September to October): Witness the beautiful fall foliage, fewer tourists, and wine harvest season.

• Winter (November to March): Perfect for skiing in the Alps and enjoying Christmas markets.

Festivals

• Vienna Ball Season (January-February): Experience traditional balls in Vienna’s palatial venues.

• Salzburg Festival (July-August): World-renowned music and drama festival.

• Innsbruck Early Music Festival (July-August): Celebrates classical music in historical settings.

• Graz Opera and Ballet (Year-round): High-quality performances in a modern opera house.

Climate

• Western and Central Austria: Alpine climate with cold winters and moderate to warm summers.

• Eastern Austria: Continental climate, with hot summers and cold, dry winters.

Packing Tips

• Seasonal Clothing: Warm layers for winter, lightweight clothes for summer, and waterproof gear for unpredictable showers.

• Comfortable Footwear: For exploring cities and hiking trails.

• Sun Protection: Sunglasses, sunscreen, and hats for summer.

Currency

• Euro (€): ATMs are widely available, and credit cards are accepted in most establishments.

Time Zone

• Central European Time (CET): UTC +1 and UTC +2 during Daylight Saving Time (late March to late October).

Bargaining

• Generally, not customary in Austria, with fixed prices in most shops and markets.

Communication

• Language: German is the official language. English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas.

• Phone and WiFi: Prepaid SIM cards are readily available. Free WiFi is common in hotels, cafes, and public spaces.

Tipping Etiquette

• Restaurants: Rounding up the bill or adding 5-10% is customary.

• Taxis: Rounding up to the nearest euro is common.

• Services: Small tips are appreciated for good service.

Electric Plugs

• Type C and F: Voltage is 230V, and the frequency is 50Hz. Carry a universal adapter for convenience.

Health and Safety

• Tap Water: Safe to drink throughout Austria.

• Healthcare: High standard, with pharmacies and hospitals accessible. Travel insurance is recommended.

Public Transport

• Efficient System: Includes trains, trams, and buses. The ÖBB (Austrian Federal Railways) offers extensive rail services.

• Vienna Transport: The U-Bahn (subway), S-Bahn, trams, and buses are convenient for city travel.

Cultural Norms

• Punctuality: Highly valued in Austrian culture.

• Greetings: A firm handshake with eye contact is common.

• Quiet Zones: Adhere to quiet hours in residential areas and on public transport.