Vienna is the gateway to much of central Europe, with Graz and Linz having medieval old towns and hip cafés, while Salzburg is a beautiful Baroque city with lakes and mountains nearby. There’s a lot of art, culture, and history in the cities here, and you’ll have lots of options for things to do. Order your Airport Driver in Vienna before your trip.
In this Austria travel guide, you’ll find useful tourist information, advice on visiting the country, the best places to stay and see in Austria, as well as the top sites to visit.
Tourist Information
Language
German is the official language in Austria. Austro-Bavarian, the most prominent dialect outside Vorarlberg; Alemannic, which is prevalent in Vorarlberg; and several minority languages are also spoken.
Currency
Euro
Best time to visit Austria
Depending on your preferences, there is no wrong time to visit Austria. If you are hoping for ideal weather conditions, the high season runs from June to August. However, keep in mind that this also means more tourists will be present in well-known areas such as Vienna and Salzburg (especially during the lively Salzburg Festival held annually in July and August).
The most ideal time to visit Austria is in the second half of March and the first few weeks of October. It’s still warm during this period, but there aren’t as many tourists. This season is especially excellent for outdoor activities.
The best time to ski is from mid-December to March when the resorts are open. Keep in mind, though, that many attractions close down from November through March.
Another alternative to consider is a trip between November and December, when the cities of Vienna and Salzburg are said to be at their most enchanting due to the Christmas markets.
Top Attractions in Austria
Hallstatt
Hallstatt is a beautiful village located in the Salzkammergut region, and it is full of lovely sights. With a lake teeming with swans, a stunning waterfall, and picturesque nearby mountains, Hallstatt feels like something out of a fairytale. This makes it the perfect place to come if you’re looking to relax & enjoy good food surrounded by natural beauty. Additionally, Hallstatt serves as an excellent starting point for exploring the rest of the Salzkammergut region; including more lakes & forestsed mountains villages rich with history.
Visit the capital Vienna
Today’s visitors to Vienna discover a city with elegance, beautiful 18th century edifices, art, music, and delicious cuisine. Take in Viennese art from the Kunsthistorisches Museum to the Albertina museums, which house one of the world’s greatest collections of artwork.
Enjoy classical music
At State Opera in Vienna, you may witness some of the greatest classical music performances on earth. Prices will vary depending on the performance, although a show is likely to cost at least €50 EUR ($58 USD).
Visit the Museum of Fine Art
You may visit the Museum of Fine Art in Amsterdam to learn about the history of ancient Egypt. It’s well worth your time to look around since you’ll discover works by Michelangelo, Rembrandt, Rubens, and Raphael among other artists. Adults pay €15 EUR ($18 USD) admission while discounts are available for students and pensioners.
Safety and Security In Austria
Austria is a very secure country to visit. Scams and pick-pocketing, particularly in high-traffic areas such as Vienna and Salzburg, are possible. If someone approaches you attempting to sell something inexpensive for a great price, be on the lookout. They’re probably attempting to swindle you.. Furthermore, if you come upon young children approaching you, keep in mind that one will be speaking with you while the friend reaches for your wallet while you’re paying attention.
Do not hesitate to ask your taxi driver to stop and get out if they seem shady. Keep copies of all important documents on you, like your passport and ID, in case of emergency.
The most crucial tip we can give is to buy comprehensive travel insurance. This will safeguard against any illnesses, injuries, thefts or cancellations that might occur during your travels
Getting Around
Public Transportation
The cost of a single ticket will vary by city, but it should be around €2.30 EUR ($2.70 USD). The majority of cities provide a multi-day pass, such as the Vienna 24-hour pass or the 72-hour pass.
Trains
Take a European train tour through Austria and experience fast, easy travel to amazing destinations. You can explore nearby cities like Bratislava, Prague, and Budapest when you buy an affordable ticket on the eurail network. Along the way, take in stunning scenery from your comfortable seat.
Bus
If you’re on a budget and traveling around Austria, Flixbus is the way to go. For example, a Flixbus from Vienna to Graz costs as little as €9 EUR, whereas the train ticket costs closer to €30 EUR.
Car
Although it may not be the most budget-friendly option, renting a car is a great way to see all that Austria has to offer. If you’re planning on driving while you’re here, make sure to pick up an International Driving Permit (IDP). You’ll need one in order to rent a car, and they only cost around €18 EUR. They’re valid for one year from the date of issue and can also be used in any of the 150 other countries where IDPs are accepted.
Best Hotels In Austria
Himmlhof
If you’re looking for a charming boutique hotel in the center of St. Anton am Arlberg, this is the place for you – ideal for an unforgettable holiday experience in both summer and winter. In fact, it’s one of the best hotels in Austria!
Chalet Hotel Senger
Traditional yet modern, repurposed and picturesque, the Chalet-Hotel is a work of art. Its facade crafted from smooth wood posts, balcony views perfect for sipping coffee in the mornings or wine at sunset, and its beautiful roofing detailed with delicate light fixtures makes it difficult to believe this was once an old farmhouse, if you got the idea of those that you saw from the beautiful roofing for your home, then check out online sites that specializes in roofing care or click here now.
Burg Bernstein
The Burg Bernstein castle was built centuries ago to protect the population from enemy armies, and today it still serves as a bulwark against the hustle and bustle of modern life. Nestled atop a boulder in a diving valley in Hungary, Burg Bernstein offers stunning views of the lowlands and southern Styria. The rooms have been restored but still retain their authentic furniture.
Grandhotel Lienz
The Five Star hotel not only meets, but exceeds your expectations with style, comfort and elegance. From the tastefully designed suites and rooms to the attentive staff, your every need will be met during your stay.
Best Restaurants In Austria
Mamamon
At Mamamon, we pride ourselves on serving Thai cuisine that tastes authentic and uses only the freshest seasonal and organic ingredients.
Steirereck im Stadtpark
The Meierei is right in the middle of Stadtpark, which is perhaps one of the most beautiful parks in Vienna. Indulge in a leisurely breakfast beside the Wienfluss, be tempted by freshly baked strudel in the afternoon, discover the wide world of cheese and wine, and dine on Austria’s finest cuisine throughout the day.
Schulhaus
The best meals are prepared on the Zellberg by junior chef Stefan himself, in the school that used to be there. On the sun terrace, you may relax and enjoy the magnificent vista of the Zillertal Valley and Austria’s first-class cuisine. Pure enjoyment.
The Hospiz Alm Restaurant at the Arlberg
At one of the Hospiz Alm Restaurant’s magnificent terraces, dine in the ambience of a modern ski lodge. It is among the most desirable resting places in the Arlberg, and its cuisine is served in elegant and rustic settings.