Austria

Austria is a Central European country known for its rich cultural heritage, majestic alpine landscapes, and historic cities like Vienna, its capital, which is famed for its architectural beauty and musical legacy. It played a significant role in European history as the heart of the Habsburg Empire, influencing political, cultural, and artistic movements across the continent.

Today, Austria offers a blend of historical sights, modern living, and outdoor activities, making it a popular destination for tourists, as well as a high quality of life for its residents.

Places to visit

Key Phrases

Speak like a local

  • "Guten Tag" - Good day
  • "Auf Wiedersehen" - Goodbye
  • "Bitte" - Please
  • "Danke" - Thank you
  • "Entschuldigung" - Excuse me

Day plans

Spend a day exploring around

day 1

Exploring Vienna

morning:Start the day with a visit to the historical Schönbrunn Palace. Wander through its magnificent gardens and enjoy panoramic views of the city. Take a break and savor a delicious Viennese breakfast at Café Landtmann.

afternoon:Discover the architectural wonder of St. Stephen's Cathedral and explore the vibrant Naschmarkt. Indulge in traditional Austrian cuisine for lunch at Naschmarkt Deli before continuing your explorations.

evening:Experience the vibrant atmosphere of the MuseumsQuartier. Visit a couple of art galleries before heading to the trendy Volksgarten Club Disco for an unforgettable night-out. 🌃

day 2

Salzburg's Charm

morning:Begin your day with a stroll through the enchanting Mirabell Gardens. Admire the Baroque beauty and don't miss the chance to enjoy a classic Austrian coffee at Café Tomaselli.

afternoon:Step into the world of Mozart with a visit to his birthplace and explore the Old Town's charming streets. Treat yourself to a delightful lunch at the historic St. Peter Stiftskeller.

evening:Immerse yourself in the magic of the Hohensalzburg Fortress as the sun sets over the city. As night falls, head to the iconic Augustiner Bräustübl for an authentic Austrian beer experience. 🌃

day 3

Innsbruck Adventure

morning:Start your day by taking a spectacular ride on the Nordkette Cable Car for breathtaking mountain views. Enjoy a hearty breakfast with a view at Alpenlounge Seegrube.

afternoon:Discover the historic Golden Roof and explore the Imperial Palace. Refuel with a delicious Tyrolean meal at Stiftskeller before continuing your urban exploration.

evening:End the day with a leisurely stroll along the Inn River and watch the city come alive as the lights illuminate the vibrant streets. Experience the lively nightlife at Treibhaus for live music and a fun evening. 🌃

day 4

Lake District Delights

morning:Embark on a scenic boat trip on Lake Hallstatt and take in the picturesque views of the surrounding mountains. Enjoy a delightful morning coffee with a view at Café Am See by the lake.

afternoon:Explore the charming village of Hallstatt and visit the Hallstatt Skywalk for stunning panoramic views. Relish in a traditional Austrian lunch at Gasthof Zauner Restaurant.

evening:Catch the sunset at the iconic Five Fingers viewing platform in the Dachstein Krippenstein area. Afterwards, head to the atmospheric Konditorei-Kaffeehaus Habersatter for a cozy and relaxed evening. 🌃

Austria's Famous Food

Delicacies in Austria you must try!

Wiener Schnitzel

A traditional Viennese dish consisting of a breaded and fried veal cutlet, often accompanied with potato salad or lingonberry jam. Enjoy authentic Wiener Schnitzel at Figlmuller, reputed for serving the best in Vienna.

Must-Try!

Sachertorte

Indulge in the famous Austrian chocolate cake, the Sachertorte, a decadent treat comprising of layers of dense chocolate cake with a thin layer of apricot jam, enveloped in dark chocolate icing. Visit the Hotel Sacher in Vienna for an unforgettable tasting experience.

Käsespätzle

A beloved comfort food, Käsespätzle is a delectable dish of soft egg noodles covered in melted cheese, often topped with crispy fried onions. Sample this delightful dish at Zum fidelen Affen in Innsbruck.

Attractions in Austria

Nice places to capture memories

Hallstatt

A charming lakeside village with stunning mountain and lake views.

Grossglockner High Alpine Road

Scenic drive offering breathtaking views of the Austrian Alps and valleys.

Innsbruck

City nestled in the Alps, offering panoramic views and picturesque architecture.

Salzburg

Historic city known for its beautiful and photogenic Old Town and fortress views.

Lake Wolfgang, St. Wolfgang

Picturesque lake surrounded by mountains, offering ideal photo opportunities.

Seasonal Advice

Best times to visit and what to expect in different seasons

Spring

Best time to visit Austria with blooming flowers, warmer weather, and outdoor activities.

Summer

Ideal for hiking, festivals, and enjoying the lakes and mountains.

Autumn

Beautiful fall foliage, wine festivals, and fewer crowds.

Winter

Perfect for skiing, snowboarding, Christmas markets, and festive atmosphere.

Outdoor Activities in Austria

Fun outdoor pursuits

Hiking

Austria is known for its stunning landscapes and offers a wide variety of hiking trails for all levels of experience, from leisurely strolls to challenging mountain hikes.

Skiing and Snowboarding

Austria's alpine regions provide excellent opportunities for winter sports, with numerous world-class ski resorts offering slopes for all skill levels.

Cycling

Austria has a well-developed network of cycling paths and routes, making it a great destination for cycling enthusiasts to explore its beautiful countryside.

Climbing

For adventure seekers, Austria offers fantastic rock climbing and alpine climbing opportunities in its mountainous regions.

Tipping & Payment

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

In Austria, tipping is common and is usually around 5-10% of the bill in restaurants and cafes. It is also customary to round up the fare in taxis and leave a small tip for good service.

Payment

Cash is widely accepted in Austria, and many small businesses and traditional establishments may prefer it. However, credit and debit cards are also widely used, especially in larger cities and tourist areas. Contactless payment methods are becoming increasingly popular.

Local Etiquette

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting etiquette

In Austria, it is customary to greet people with a firm handshake, maintain eye contact, and use formal titles like Herr (Mr.) or Frau (Mrs.) with the person's last name.

Punctuality

Being on time is important in Austrian culture. Arriving late to social or business engagements may be considered rude.

Respect for traditions

Austrians value their traditions and customs, and it is important to show respect for local traditions, such as observing religious holidays and customs.

Things to do in Austria

Unique local experiences...

Safety

Safety in Austria is generally quite high, as the country is known for its low crime rates and well-functioning public services. The cities, including Vienna, Salzburg, and Innsbruck, are considered safe for both residents and tourists. Violent crime is rare, and property crimes, such as theft, are relatively uncommon compared to other European countries. Public transport is safe and reliable, making it easy to navigate cities and travel between regions. The infrastructure is well maintained, and emergency services are efficient and accessible. In terms of natural safety, Austria's mountainous terrain means that while outdoor activities like skiing and hiking are popular, they also come with risks. It's important to be cautious and prepared when venturing into the Alps or other natural areas, especially during winter sports activities. Overall, while no place can be considered completely free of risk, precautions and awareness can help ensure a safe experience in Austria.

Nightlife in Austria

Austria's nightlife is vibrant and diverse, offering something for everyone, whether you're looking for a quiet evening in a cozy wine tavern or an all-night dance party. In cities like Vienna, Salzburg, and Graz, you'll find an array of options from sophisticated bars and chic lounges to energetic nightclubs and live music venues. Vienna, the capital, is particularly known for its elegant coffee houses that transform into trendy bars by night. Districts like the Gürtel and the Naschmarkt area are bustling with venues that cater to a wide range of tastes, from underground electronic music clubs to intimate jazz bars. For a more traditional experience, visitors can explore the Heurigen, traditional wine taverns located in the outskirts of Vienna, where you can enjoy local wine and hearty Austrian cuisine in a laid-back setting. Salzburg, famous for its musical heritage, offers a nightlife scene that is equally rich in culture. The city is home to numerous classical music performances, especially related to Mozart, as well as modern bars and clubs. The Old Town (Altstadt) is an excellent place to start, with its charming streets lined with bars, pubs, and late-night eateries. Graz, as a university city, boasts a young and dynamic nightlife scene. Trendy bars, student clubs, and live music venues are scattered throughout the city, with the area around the University of Graz being particularly lively. No matter where you go in Austria, you'll find that socializing often extends beyond just drinking; many venues also offer a range of entertainment options, including live music, DJ sets, and cultural events. Whether you're a local or a visitor, Austria's nightlife provides an exciting mix of tradition and modernity, ensuring memorable nights out.

Costs of Living

The cost of living in Austria can vary significantly depending on the city and lifestyle, but here are some average prices to give you an idea: Housing: - Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center: EUR 800 - 1,500 per month - Rent for a one-bedroom apartment outside the city center: EUR 600 - 1,000 per month - Utilities (electricity, heating, cooling, water, garbage) for a standard apartment: EUR 150 - 250 per month Food: - Meal at an inexpensive restaurant: EUR 10 - 15 - Three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant: EUR 50 - 80 - Groceries for a single person per month: EUR 250 - 400 - Milk (1 liter): EUR 1.10 - Bread (500g): EUR 1.50 - Eggs (12): EUR 3.00 - Chicken breasts (1 kg): EUR 8.00 - Apples (1 kg): EUR 2.50 - Potatoes (1 kg): EUR 1.00 Transportation: - Public transport monthly pass: EUR 50 - 70 - Single ticket (public transport): EUR 2.50 - 3.00 - Gasoline (1 liter): EUR 1.50 - 1.80 Healthcare: - Health insurance (mandatory for residents, varies by income): EUR 200 - 500 per month Childcare: - Kindergarten fees per month: EUR 200 - 400 (subsidies may apply) Leisure: - Fitness club monthly fee: EUR 30 - 50 - Cinema ticket: EUR 10 - 12 Overall, the cost of living in Austria is generally considered to be high, particularly in cities like Vienna and Salzburg, but it offers a high quality of life, good public services, and a rich cultural environment.

Pet sitters in Austria

Relax and unwind while your furry friend enjoys making a new companion!

Continue exploring Austria

Discover local cities, attractions and more!

ViennaGrazLinzLochauSalzburgInnsbruckKlagenfurtVillachWelsSankt PöltenKrems an der DonauDornbirnWiener NeustadtSteyrBregenzLeondingKlosterneuburgBadenWolfsbergLeobenTraunLustenauAmstettenKapfenbergHalleinMödling