Austria
When most people think of Austria, they think of rolling hills in Reutte, skiing, Christmas markets, and The Sound of Music in Salzburg. And while the country does have all of this, it also has so much more!
Small, landlocked Austria offers alpine scenery, world-class museums, cobbled streets, and Wiener schnitzel. Unlike Germany, its neighbour to the northwest, Austria is content to bask in its good living and elegant, wealthy past as the former head of one of Europe‘s largest empires. Austrians are relaxed, social friendly, and outgoing people who love the outdoors as much as a good cup of coffee.
No country dances so effortlessly between outdoors and urban as Austria. One day you could be hiking the alpine summits of Innsbruck, the next you’re swanning around Vienna.
Below you will find comprehensive guides to the country.
Best Time To Visit
Austria is a country with a variety of weather, so deciding on when to visit all depends on the activities on your itinerary. The best time to visit Austria is between April and May and September and October.
During the spring, you might be met with a rain shower. But it’s still a great time to explore around Vienna or Salzburg as the tourist season is just beginning. When Autumn arrives the mountains become covered in red and orange trees as the leaves change, making it one of the best times to hike and to take great photos.
Summer is high season meaning crowds and prices will double. With summer comes the heat, especially near the lakes, so to take a dip. This is also the season of the Salzburg and Vienna Festivals!
Winter in Austria can be quite cold, but you won’t mind when you are wrapped up walking around the Vienna Christmas market. If you like your skiing, this is the time to go in the Austrian Alps before relaxing in the resort bar!
What To Expect
Capital: Vienna
Language: The official language of Austria is Austrian German. ‘Hello’ and ‘Thank You’ in German: “Hallo” and “Danke”
Currency: The official currency of Austria is the Euro (EUR). £1 GBP is equivalent to 1.18 EUR. Check the latest rates here
Credit Cards & ATMs: To get the best exchange rate in Austria, it’s wise to use your credit card whenever you get the chance. There’s typically no service charge and are widely accepted throughout the country. If you need some Euros, you will find that ATMs are very prevalent in Austria. Never use Euronet ATM’s, these will charge you for withdrawals and also give you a poor exchange rate.
Plugs: In Austria, the plugs are type F, the standard voltage is 230 V. I recommend buying a universal adapter
Safety: Austria is an extremely safe country, with the most dangerous crimes being pickpocketing and petty theft. Ranked 4 on the Global Peace Index with a score of 1.29 , meaning Austria is one of the safest countries in the world
Random useful tip: If you really want to impress an Austrian, say, “Oachkatzlschwoaf”, which means ‘the squirrel’s tail.’ It doesn’t have any deeper meaning but is just something that is unique to Austrian German and is difficult to say.
Never ever: Never mention the Sound of Music. You’d think any proud Austrian would light up at the mention of this iconic film but plot-twist – no Austrian has ever seen it.
Travel Guides
Below you will find guides on places in Austria, reasons to visit Austria, and how to travel Austria on a budget.
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Top 5 Things to See and Do in Austria
Vienna, Austria’s imperial capital, seamlessly fuses its regal past with contemporary vibrancy. The historic centre, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a treasure trove of Baroque architecture, grand palaces, and iconic coffeehouses. A leisurely stroll reveals gems such as the Hofburg Palace, the former imperial residence, and St. Stephen’s Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece. No visit is complete without indulging in a slice of Sachertorte in one of the traditional coffeehouses or catching a mesmerising performance at the renowned State Opera House.
Tyrol, with its snow-laden peaks and world-class ski resorts, beckons winter sports enthusiasts from all over the globe. Resorts like St. Anton, Ischgl, and Kitzbühel promise pristine slopes catering to both beginners and seasoned skiers. Beyond the exhilarating runs, the region’s alpine charm is accentuated with cosy chalets, inviting après-ski scenes, and panoramic views of the majestic Alps. Even in the warmer months, Tyrol’s mountains provide a verdant playground for hiking, mountain biking, and paragliding.
Salzburg, the birthplace of Mozart, is not just steeped in musical heritage but also offers a harmonious blend of baroque architecture and alpine landscapes. Every summer, the city plays host to the Salzburg Festival, a world-renowned event celebrating opera, theatre, and classical concerts. Visitors can revel in top-tier performances set against the backdrop of historic venues, from the grand Felsenreitschule theatre to the intimate surrounds of the Mozarteum. The magic of music further intertwines with the city’s elegance as the melodies of Mozart and other legends waft through the streets.
The Wachau Valley, stretching along the Danube between Melk and Krems, is a testament to the beauty of the Austrian countryside. This UNESCO-listed landscape is dotted with medieval towns, imposing castles, and terraced vineyards producing exquisite white wines. Cruising on the Danube offers visitors a serene vantage point to absorb the region’s splendour. A stop at Melk Abbey, a baroque marvel perched on a rocky outcrop, further enriches the journey with its historical depth and panoramic views.
Located near Werfen, just south of Salzburg, Eisriesenwelt claims the title of the world’s largest ice cave. This natural wonder, nestled within the Tennengebirge Mountains, unveils a subterranean world of shimmering ice formations, vast caverns, and frozen waterfalls. Guided tours lead visitors through an icy labyrinth, with the cave’s sculptures illuminated by magnesium flares, creating an ethereal atmosphere. The play of light and shadow on the intricate ice patterns presents an enchanting spectacle, offering a glimpse into Austria’s hidden wonders.
Austria Travel Costs
Accommodation
- Hostel Dorms – €20–€35 / £17–30 / $22–38
- Hostel Private Rooms – €60–€90 / £52–78 / $66–99
- Budget Hotels – €70–€120 / £61–104 / $77–132
- Airbnb Private Rooms – €40–€70 / £35–61 / $44–77
- Airbnb Apartments – €90–€150 / £78–130 / $99–165
- Campsites – €10–€25 / £9–22 / $11–27
Transportation
- Local Bus, Tram, or Metro – €2–€2.50 per ride / £1.75–2.20 / $2.20–2.75
- Intercity Train – €20–€60 (depending on distance) / £17–52 / $22–66
- Taxi (per km) – €1.50–€2 / £1.30–1.75 / $1.65–2.20
- Car Rental (per day) – €40–€80 / £35–70 / $44–88
Food
- Budget Meal – €7–€12 / £6–10 / $8–13
- Mid-Range Restaurant Meal – €20–€35 / £17–30 / $22–38
- Coffee – €2.50–€4 / £2–3.50 / $2.75–4.50
- Beer – €3.50–€5 / £3–4.30 / $4–5.50
Activities
- Museum Entry – €8–€15 / £7–13 / $9–16.50
- Guided Tours – €25–€50 / £22–43 / $28–55
- Concerts or Cultural Events – €30–€80 / £26–70 / $33–88
- Ski Passes – €50–€70 per day / £43–61 / $55–77
Austria Suggested Budgets
Backpacker – €50 Per Day
(Approx. £43 / $55)
A backpacking budget allows you to stay in a hostel dorm, cook your own meals, and use public transportation like buses, trams, or trains. You can enjoy free or inexpensive activities such as hiking in the Alps, exploring parks, or visiting churches and historic squares.
If you plan to drink, add an extra €5–€10 / £4–9 / $5–11 per day for alcohol expenses. To save more, shop at supermarkets for groceries and use refillable water bottles, as tap water in Austria is safe and free.
Midrange – €120 Per Day
(Approx. £104 / $132)
A mid-range budget lets you stay in a private room at a hostel or an Airbnb. You’ll have the freedom to eat out at local restaurants, enjoy a few drinks at bars, and explore museums and cultural attractions. This budget also allows for day trips to nearby cities or scenic spots using Austria’s reliable train network.
You can take the occasional taxi for convenience and participate in guided tours or activities like a classical concert in Vienna or a visit to a thermal spa.
Upscale – €250+ Per Day
(Approx. £217+ / $275+)
A luxury budget ensures you stay in boutique hotels or high-end Airbnbs. You can dine at fine restaurants, sip cocktails at stylish bars, and enjoy exclusive experiences such as private tours, performances at the Vienna State Opera, or skiing in high-end resorts.
This budget covers seamless transportation, including car rentals, first-class train tickets, or private transfers. It allows for indulging in Austria’s top attractions, from castles and cultural events to relaxing in luxury spas.
Austria Money-Saving Tips
Austria is not the cheapest destination in Europe, but with some planning, you can still explore this beautiful country on a budget. Here are some tips to help you save money during your trip in 2025:
- Bring a Reusable Water Bottle – Austria’s tap water is some of the purest in the world and completely safe to drink. Bring a reusable water bottle and refill it at public fountains or from the tap to save money and reduce plastic waste.
- Take Free Walking Tours – Many Austrian cities, including Vienna and Salzburg, offer free walking tours that provide insights into local history and culture. While the tours are free, it’s customary to tip your guide around €5–€10 for their time and expertise.
- Cook Your Own Meals – If you’re staying in a hostel or Airbnb with a kitchen, cooking your meals can save you a lot of money. Groceries are reasonably priced, and local markets offer fresh produce, bread, and cheese for a fraction of restaurant costs.
- Stay in Budget Accommodations – Opt for hostels with Hostelworld or budget hotels instead of upscale accommodations. Many hostels in Austria have excellent facilities and offer private rooms if you prefer more privacy. Alternatively, check Airbnb for affordable private rooms.
- Use Public Transportation – Austria has an excellent public transport network. Instead of taking taxis, use local buses, trams, and metros in cities, or take trains for intercity travel. Consider getting a city travel card (like the Vienna City Card), which offers unlimited travel and discounts on attractions.
- Get an ÖBB Sparschiene Ticket – The Austrian Federal Railway (ÖBB) offers Sparschiene tickets, which are discounted fares for long-distance train travel. Book these tickets in advance to secure lower prices for travel between cities.
- Take Advantage of Free Attractions – Austria is full of stunning natural and historical attractions that cost nothing. Hike the Austrian Alps, visit public parks like Vienna’s Stadtpark, or admire architecture in cities like Graz or Innsbruck. Many churches, such as St. Stephen’s Cathedral in Vienna, offer free entry.
- Travel Off-Season – Visit Austria in the shoulder seasons (April–May or September–October) to benefit from lower accommodation prices and fewer crowds. Winter can also be more affordable outside of the Christmas market and ski season.
- Use Discount Cards – Austria offers several regional and city-specific discount cards, like the Vienna City Card or the Salzburg Card, which provide free or discounted entry to popular attractions, unlimited public transport, and other perks.
- Skip the Ski Resorts – If you’re visiting in winter, avoid the expensive ski resorts and instead explore smaller, lesser-known areas like Bad Gastein or Zell am See for more affordable options.
- Walk or Cycle – Austrian cities like Vienna and Salzburg are highly walkable and have excellent cycling infrastructure. Rent a bike or explore on foot to save money on transportation while soaking in the local atmosphere.
How to Get Around in Austria
Getting around Austria is straightforward, thanks to its well-developed and efficient transportation infrastructure. Here’s an updated guide to navigating the country affordably and efficiently:
Walking
Many Austrian cities and towns, including Vienna, Salzburg, and Innsbruck, are compact and pedestrian-friendly. Walking is the easiest way to explore historic centres, parks, and local attractions.
Public Transportation
Austria boasts an excellent public transport system in its cities. Trams, buses, and metro services are affordable and efficient.
- Single ride tickets cost €2.50–€3 / £2.15–£2.60 / $2.75–$3.30.
- Day passes or multi-day travel cards are more cost-effective for frequent travellers, costing around €8–€15 / £7–£13 / $8.75–$16.50.
Vienna’s U-Bahn (subway) and trams in cities like Graz or Linz make navigating urban areas easy and convenient.
Use BusBud for cheap bus tickets!
Airport Transfers
From Vienna International Airport, the City Airport Train (CAT) is the fastest option, costing €12 one-way / £10.30 / $13.20 and taking 16 minutes to the city centre.
Alternatively, regular trains or buses cost around €4–€6 / £3.45–£5.20 / $4.40–$6.60.
Taxis from Vienna Airport to the city centre cost approximately €40–€50 / £34–£43 / $44–$55.
Taxis
Taxis are widely available in Austria, especially in urban areas. The base fare starts at around €4 / £3.45 / $4.40, with an additional cost of €1.50–€2 per kilometre / £1.30–£1.75 / $1.65–$2.20.
Ride-hailing apps like Bolt or Uber are available in larger cities and may offer slightly cheaper options.
Buses and Intercity Travel
Austria’s buses, particularly those operated by companies like FlixBus, are an affordable option for intercity travel. Prices vary based on distance:
- Vienna to Salzburg: ~€15–€25 / £13–£22 / $16.50–$27, 3–4 hours
- Vienna to Graz: ~€12–€20 / £10–£17 / $13–$22, 2–3 hours
Buses are comfortable and equipped with Wi-Fi, making them a good alternative to trains for budget travellers.
Trains
Trains are the most popular and efficient way to travel across Austria. ÖBB (Austrian Federal Railways) runs frequent and reliable services.
- Vienna to Salzburg: €25–€50 / £22–£43 / $27.50–$55, 2.5 hours by Railjet
- Vienna to Innsbruck: €40–€70 / £34–£60 / $44–$77, 4 hours
For savings, book Sparschiene tickets in advance through ÖBB’s website. Rail passes like the Rail Europe Austria Pass are great for unlimited travel across the country.
Car Rental
Renting a car is a good option for exploring Austria’s scenic countryside, such as the Austrian Alps or the Wachau Valley. Car rentals start at €40–€80 per day / £34–£70 / $44–$88.
You’ll need an International Driving Permit (IDP), and roads are generally well-maintained. Note that highways require a vignette (toll sticker), which is included in most rentals. We highly recommend Discover Cars for car rental in Austria.
Cycling
Austria is a cyclist-friendly country with excellent bike lanes in cities and long-distance cycling routes like the Danube Cycle Path. You can rent bikes for around €10–€20 per day / £8.50–£17 / $11–$22.
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