Austria

Vienna International Airport is Austria’s main international gateway, with connections to cities across Europe and beyond. Salzburg and Innsbruck offer additional flight options, particularly for regional and seasonal travel. Austria also has excellent rail connections with neighbouring countries, making it easy to combine your visit with Germany, Switzerland, Italy, or the Czech Republic. Within the country, trains, buses, and private transfers connect major cities, lake regions, and Alpine destinations.

Austria uses the Euro (EUR), represented by the € symbol. Cards are widely accepted in hotels, larger restaurants, and shops, but cash remains useful at smaller cafés, village businesses, markets, and mountain huts. Keep some euros with you, especially when exploring rural areas.

Austria is part of the Schengen Area. Travellers from eligible countries can generally visit for up to 90 days within any 180 day period without a visa, with the allowance covering time spent across the Schengen Area. Other nationalities may need to apply for a Schengen visa before departure. Check with your nearest Austrian embassy for the requirements that apply to your passport and travel dates.

Austria experiences four distinct seasons, with conditions varying between cities, valleys, and higher mountain areas. Spring brings milder days and blossoming landscapes, while summer offers warm weather for lakeside stays, sightseeing, and mountain walks. Autumn adds golden foliage and vineyard scenery, while winter brings Christmas markets and opportunities for skiing in the Alps. Mountain weather can change quickly, so pack layers even during the warmer months.

Austria offers everything from grand heritage hotels and stylish city stays to lakeside retreats, cosy guesthouses, and Alpine chalets. In Vienna and Salzburg, a centrally located hotel puts historic sights and cafés within easy reach. In the countryside, traditional inns and mountain properties introduce you to regional hospitality and a quieter rhythm. Choosing accommodation with a sense of place can make your stay as memorable as the destinations you explore.

Politeness and punctuality are appreciated in Austria. Greet people when entering small shops or guesthouses, and use a simple “Guten Tag” or the traditional “Grüss Gott” to make a friendly connection. Keep your voice low in churches and during concerts, and follow photography guidance at cultural sites. Coffeehouse visits are an invitation to linger, so allow yourself time to enjoy the atmosphere alongside your coffee and cake.