AUSTRIA TRAVEL GUIDE
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Austria is a largely mountainous landlocked country in south central Europe. It is a stunning country with tons of history and culture all around. The capital is the historic Vienna (Wien), a city renowned for it’s architecture and in my opinion, some of the best Christmas markets in the world.
From the imperial architecture in Vienna to the snowy peaks of the Alps to sprawling vineyards to incredible opera and ballet Austria is a country that truly does have something for everyone.
Austria is perfect for every type of traveller whether you’re travelling here on a short weekend getaway, a longer holiday or backpacking through it on a longer trip.
Many people only visit Vienna when in Austria but the country has so much more to offer. Graz and Linz offer an enticing blend of well-preserved old towns and hip cafes. Salzburg, near the German border, is a picture perfect city with its charming Baroque architecture and it’s close proximity to the enchanting mountains and lakes that will remind you of ‘The Sound of Music’. Here you can enjoy summer hikes, indulge in winter skiing, and even burst into song as you frolic across the rolling hills.
AUSTRIA GENERAL INFO
Austria is one of the few landlocked countries in Central Europe. Austria shares borders with eight countries: Germany, Czechia, Slovakia, Hungary, Slovenia, Italy, Liechtenstein, Switzerland.
The longest border is shared with Germany and is about 801 km/ 497 miles in length.
Austria is a mostly mountainous country with the Alps covering the western and the southern parts and mostly gentle hills in the eastern and northern parts.
The official language is German.
Austria is well known for great musicians and composers, such as Mozart, Joseph Haydn and Johann Strauss.
HOW TO GET TO AUSTRIA
BY ROAD
If you're in a neighbouring country, you can easily drive to Austria as there are fast and well-maintained motorways throughout Central Europe. All main border check points are open day and night and are straightforward in the Schengen Area.
In general, Austrian traffic regulations and traffic signals are similar to those enforced in other European countries. Remember to check toll requirements and driving regulations. Be aware that you currently need a ‘vignette’ toll sticker to drive on Austria’s motorways and expressways. It is available at the border, at petrol stations, or online. Learn more about the toll sticker here.
If you’re travelling through Europe and want to hire a car I recommend RentalCars.com for competitive rates and excellent service.
BY RAIL
Austria has an extensive and well-connected rail network. You can travel to Austria by train from neighbouring countries like Germany, Switzerland, Italy, and Hungary.
Cities in Austria that have major train hubs are Vienna, Innsbruck, and Salzburg.
BY AIR
Vienna International Airport (Flughafen Wien-Schwechat) is the country's largest and busiest airport, with excellent international connections. Other international airports in Austria include Salzburg Airport, Innsbruck Airport, and Graz Airport. You can book flights to Austria from major cities worldwide.
BY BOAT
If you're travelling from countries along the Danube River, consider taking a river cruise. The Danube flows through several Austrian cities, including Vienna and Linz.
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT AUSTRIA
There’s not really a wrong time to visit Austria. When you choose to go depends on your preferences and the type of activities you want to experience. Austria offers something unique in each season.
Summer (June to August): This is the peak tourist season. Summer in Austria offers pleasant weather, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). It's an ideal time for outdoor activities, including hiking in the Alps, cycling, and exploring the picturesque lakes. The countryside is lush and vibrant, and many festivals and cultural events take place during this period.
Spring (April to May): Spring is a beautiful time to visit Austria as the flowers bloom, and the weather starts warming up. It's an excellent season for outdoor activities, and the cities are less crowded than in summer. You can enjoy hiking and cycling without the intense heat.
Autumn (September to October): Autumn in Austria is marked by stunning foliage, making it a great time for nature lovers and photographers. The weather remains pleasant, and the crowds begin to thin out. It's a good time for wine enthusiasts to explore the vineyards.
Winter (December to February): Austria is a winter wonderland during this season although it can get extremely cold with temperatures dropping as low as -15 °C (5°F). It's the best time for skiing and snowboarding in the Austrian Alps. Popular destinations like Innsbruck, Salzburg, and Vienna are beautifully decorated for Christmas, offering a festive atmosphere. The Christmas markets in Vienna are some of the best I’ve visited in the world.
Late Spring to Early Summer (May to early June): This period is ideal for travellers who want to avoid the peak summer crowds but still enjoy pleasant weather. You can take part in spring festivals and see the countryside coming to life.
Personally, I think the best time to visit Austria is shoulder season in the spring and autumn (April-June and September-October). It’s still warm during this time but there aren’t as many crowds. This time of year is especially good for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling.
WHAT’S THE WEATHER LIKE IN AUSTRIA RIGHT NOW?
TOP THINGS TO SEE & DO IN AUSTRIA
Walk the ringroad (Ringstrasse)
This historic loop stretches just over 5 kilometers (3 miles) and is full of beautiful architecture to marvel at. It’s here where you can find the Parliament building, City Hall, both the Museum of Art History and the National History Museum, as well as the State Opera. It’s a relaxing way to spend some time soaking up the city and admiring its history and design. It’s also a great free activity if you’re travelling in Austria on a tight budget. If you’d like to learn more about Vienna on your walk you can get a guided tour of the Ringstrasse.
Innsbruck for winter sports
Innsbruck is one of the most beautiful towns in Austria. It’s situated in the Alps and filled with cobblestone streets, a historic center and lots of great restaurants.
Innsbruck offers the most majestic views of the jagged rock spires of the Nordkette mountain range and is a great place where you can hike and camp. It’s a great city for outdoor activities any time of the year. The Golden Roof is a must visit whilst in Innsbruck as it’s an impressive alcove balcony with 2,657 copper tiles covering its roof.
You should explore Innsbruck’s young, hip areas: Mariahilf, St. Nikolaus, and Wilten square with their distinctive local shops, vegan restaurants and unique bars.
As it’s a big student town it can be a really affordable destinations in Austria.
Relax in Hallstatt and Hallstätter See
Hallstatt is only one hour from Salzburg and makes a great day trip. You can get there off your own steam if you’ve hired a car or you can take a guided tour with transport included. It’s a tiny, picturesque town with a swan-filled lake, a waterfall, and nearby mountains that are perfect for avid hikers.
It’s the perfect place to come and stay for a few days if you can and immerse yourself in the beautiful nature all around. You can take a tour of the nearby salt mines for a unique experience. Hallstatt also serves as a gateway to the Salzkammergut region, where you can find even more lakes, forested mountains, and historic villages.
Hit the slopes
Austria’s mountainous countryside offers many opportunities for skiing in the winter. The Austrian slopes are some of the best in Europe and if you’re an avid skier you should head to the Austrian Alps.
Ski and snowboard rentals start at around €60. Lift passes are around €50 - 70 per day. If you’re a beginner you may want to head to resorts such as Alpbach, Ellmau, Niederau, Lech, and Obergurgl as they all have excellent nursery slopes.
Kitzbühel and Kitzbüheler Horn are two magnificent slopes to visit.
Visit St Stephen’s Cathedral in Vienna
St. Stephen's Cathedral, located in the heart of Vienna, is a majestic masterpiece of 12th century Romanesque and Gothic architecture. Its iconic, multi-colored roof tiles and towering spire, reaching 136 meters, dominate the city's skyline. The cathedral has been destroyed and rebuilt over the years, with the current version largely initiated by Duke Rudolf IV (1339–1365). Its most recent reconstruction took place just after World War II.
You can take a tour of the cathedral, the catacombs and you can climb the 343 steps to the South Tower where you will be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views over Vienna's historic center. Under the cathedral are chambers holding the remains of over 10,000 people, including important nobility and victims of the plague.
The interior of the Stephanskirche: €6 (€2.50 children)
Guided Tour Catacombs: 6 Euro (€2.50) St. Stephen’s Catacombs can only be visited during a guided tour..
Aisle on the Steffl Tower (stairs): €5 (€1.50 children) This is the high church tower of the Stephanskirche.
Lift to the North Tower (smaller Adler Tower): €6 (€2.50) At the top is the so-called Pummerin, with a weight of about 20 tons the largest bell in Austria.
Cathedral Treasure St. Stephen’s Cathedral Vienna: €5 Euro (€1.50)
Click here to discover tours and tickets for St Stephen’s Cathedral.
Cycle the Danube
This is one of the most famous cycle routes in Europe, stretching from Passau, Germany into Austria. Since it’s also one of the most traveled, there’s no lack of tour operators offering holiday packages. Depending on where you begin and end, the entire journey can take 4-6 days. Expect to pay 400-500 EUR for a self-guided multi-day tour of the journey, which usually includes accommodation, a set of cycling maps, and daily luggage transfer. Guided tours start at about 1,000 EUR.
See a classical concert
Austria has contributed its fair share of composers to the world, so it’s no surprise that you can find plenty of opportunities to indulge in the classics here. Just going to one of the many theaters and concert halls in Vienna is an experience in and of itself as the buildings are so historic and beautifully decorated. If you’ve ever considered taking in an opera, symphony, or ballet (the Vienna State Ballet is one of the best in the world), this is the place to do it. Prices vary depending on the performance but expect to pay at least 40 EUR for standard tickets.
The Eisriesenwelt — the world's largest ice cave
Eisriesenwelt, or the "World of the Ice Giants," tucked away in the Austrian Alps, is like stepping into a frozen fairy tale. It's not your typical cave, it's an ice cave! The largest on the planet, no less. As you venture inside, you'll be greeted by a dazzling display of nature's artwork—stalactites and stalagmites transformed into magnificent ice sculptures. Guided tours, complete with theatrical lighting, add to the magic. The best part? You can only explore it in the summer when the ice melts, so it's like discovering a hidden secret. It's an adventure that'll leave you awestruck and with epic stories to tell.
Visit Graz Old Town
This UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts over 1,000 buildings, many of which date back to the Middle Ages. It’s a picturesque area worth exploring, especially if you love history and architecture. There are street cafes, art galleries, and lots of shopping opportunities here as well. If you want a guided tour of the area, they start at around 20 EUR. While Graz is the second-largest city in Austria, it sees far fewer tourists than Vienna.
Wander Hohensalzburg Castle
Standing high over the city of Salzburg, this magnificent castle dominates the city. The fortress has been in use since the 11th century, though it’s undergone several expansions and renovations. There’s a nice hike up to the castle (it takes about 30 minutes), or you can take the funicular. At the castle, there are ancient ruins, a cool historical tour, and panoramic views of the city to enjoy. The fortress also has a collection of museums, including the Marionette Museum and the Museum of the Rainer Regiment (which highlights the former Salzburg house military regiment). Admission is 13.30 EUR and includes the funicular.
Road trip on the Grossglockner High Alpine Road
Embarking on a road trip along the Grossglockner High Alpine Road in Austria is an unforgettable journey through the heart of the Hohe Tauern National Park. This iconic alpine road winds through majestic mountain landscapes, taking you to elevations that will leave you breathless in more ways than one. The route is punctuated by sweeping hairpin turns, allowing you to soak in breathtaking vistas of glaciers, emerald lakes, and rugged peaks. Along the way, charming alpine villages provide opportunities to savor traditional Austrian cuisine. Whether you're a nature enthusiast or a driving aficionado, this road trip is a thrilling adventure through pristine wilderness and alpine beauty.
Medieval Burg Hochosterwitz
Medieval Burg Hochosterwitz, tucked away in the charming Austrian countryside, is like a real-life fairy tale castle. Dating back to the 9th century, this place is loaded with history and enchantment. Picture this: you're climbing up through not one, not two, but 14 gatehouses, and each one feels like a page from a medieval adventure novel. Drawbridges, knights' tales, and the breathtaking Alpine scenery make it a real-life fantasy land. The castle is so well-preserved, and you can practically hear the echoes of the past as you explore its nooks and crannies. It's like a step back in time, and the view from the top is worth every moment of the climb.
Enjoy The Sound of Music in Salzburg
Visiting "The Sound of Music" in Salzburg is a delightful journey into the heart of this beloved cinematic classic. The hills truly come alive as you explore iconic filming locations, such as the stunning Mirabell Gardens, the grandeur of Schloss Leopoldskron, and the charming Nonnberg Abbey. You can sing along to the familiar tunes as you relive Maria's steps through this picturesque city. Join guided tours that whisk you through the film's enchanting settings and hear stories about the von Trapp family. Whether you're a lifelong fan or a first-time viewer, Salzburg's Sound of Music tour offers a chance to immerse yourself in the magic of this timeless movie.
Christmas markets in Vienna
Visiting Vienna's Christmas markets is like stepping into a festive wonderland. The city transforms into a magical realm during the holiday season, with its numerous markets offering twinkling lights, seasonal treats, and handmade crafts. The iconic Christkindlmarkt at Rathausplatz is a star attraction, with its enchanting ice rink and charming stalls. Roam the rows, sipping on fragrant mulled wine and savoring roasted chestnuts while shopping for unique gifts. The Belvedere Palace market and the romantic Spittelberg market are also not to be missed. Vienna's Christmas markets infuse the air with a heartwarming spirit, turning your winter visit into an unforgettable holiday experience.
WHERE TO STAY IN AUSTRIA
These are some of my favourite hotels in various towns and cities around Austria
Vienna
£ Space Home Apartment - City Hall is a great, budget capsule hotel, every room is fitted with a wardrobe, a flat-screen TV, a shared bathroom, bed linen and towels. You can get a double room for around £50.
££ Hotel Beethoven Wien is an elegant, 5-floor building, built in 1902 in a Neo-Renaissance style. It is in Vienna’s 6th district opposite the Theater an der Wien's famous Papageno Gate just a 5-minute walk from the Ringstraße Boulevard. A double room costs around £130
£££ The Ritz Carlton, Vienna is where to experience luxury in the heart of Vienna. The most beautiful sights can be reached in a few minutes by foot and the hotel is the perfect starting point for exploring the city. There is an indoor swiming pool, spa, saunas and steam baths. You are looking at around £350 per night for this luxury hotel.
Graz
£ Sishaus Hostel is ideally set in the centre of Graz, and features a shared lounge, free WiFi and a restaurant. The property is close to Casino Graz, Graz Clock Tower and Graz Town Hall. You can get a 3 bed bunk bed room for £40
Salzburg
£ Yoho International Youth Hostel: Budget-friendly hostel offering dormitory and private rooms, with a lively atmosphere and close to the city center.
£ Motel One Salzburg-Mirabell: Affordable hotel with modern amenities, located along the Salzach River.
££ Hotel Elefant: Historic hotel with comfortable rooms and a great location in the heart of the old town.
££ NH Collection Salzburg City: Modern hotel with stylish rooms and good amenities, located close to the Linzer Gasse shopping street.
£££ Hotel Goldener Hirsch, a Luxury Collection Hotel: Luxurious and historic hotel offering elegant rooms and fine dining, located in the old town.
Innsbruck
£ Marmota Hostel: Budget-friendly hostel offering dormitory and private rooms, with a communal kitchen and a garden, located near the Ambras Castle.
££ Hotel Innsbruck: Comfortable hotel with modern rooms, a wellness area, and a central location near the Golden Roof.
££ Austria Trend Hotel Congress Innsbruck: Modern hotel offering stylish rooms and a wellness area, located near the Congress Center and the Inn River.
£££ The Penz Hotel: Luxury hotel with contemporary rooms, a rooftop bar, and a central location near Maria-Theresien-Strasse.
EATING IN AUSTRIA
Austrian food is influenced by the neighbouring countries Hungaria, German and Italian food traditions. The cuisine in Austria is a meat-oriented one, with soups, stews, and pastries. The main dishes contain either meats, such as pork, beef and veal as well as root vegetables such as potatoes, onions, beetroots or carrots and green vegetables such as spinach or beans.
Wiener Schnitzel is considered by many the national dish of Austria.
Breakfast usually is centered on bread or rolls with cheese and cold meats.
A typical inexpensive restaurant meal of traditional cuisine like schnitzel costs around €15. If you’re having a three course meal at a mid-range restaurant expect to pay at least €30. Dessert is usually around €4-8.
If you’re on a budget, stick to eating at the local markets where you can find a great selection of traditional Austrian food (like schnitzel, goulash, sausages) as well as other cuisines like Asian or Greek. These market meals will set you back around €8-10
Fast food like McDonalds costs around €9 for a meal and a large pizza costs around €20.
If you staying somewhere with cooking faciities and you are planning to cook your own food, a week’s worth of groceries costs around €50 for basic staples like rice, pasta, vegetables, and some meat.
A large coffee: € 4.20 (£ 3.60)
A slice of cake: € 4.20 (£ 3.60)
A large slice of pizza: € 5 (£ 4.30)
A hot dog: € 3.50 (£ 3)
A beer: € 4 (£ 3.50)
Dinner for two in a restaurant: € 60 (£ 52.10) (as a minimum, without wine).
Here are my top choices of food to try when in Austria.
Wiener Schnitzel
Vienna Schnitzel is a tenderised flattened piece of veal meat coated in flour, egg and breadcrumbs and deep fried. In Austria Schnitzel are so big, they pretty much cover your plate!
Sachertorte
In English this is called Sacher cake, this is chocolate cake filled with orange marmalade and covered with a dark chocolate icing - famously prepared by Hotel Sacher in Vienna.
Strudel
This is a thin filo pastry roll usually filled with diced apples or cottage cheese and served with ice-cream or vanilla sauce.
Semmelknödel
Dumplings made with breadcrumbs, potatoes or also with mixed flour and cottage cheese are popularly served in either savoury or sweet dishes.
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