Overview
Austria is a captivating destination known for its stunning alpine landscapes, imperial palaces, and rich cultural heritage. Whether you’re wandering through the grand streets of Vienna, skiing in the Austrian Alps, or exploring the medieval towns of Salzburg, Austria offers something for everyone. With its world-class art museums, classical music scene, and cozy cafés, Austria is a perfect blend of tradition, history, and natural beauty.
Quick Facts
- Language: German (official), with some areas speaking Austrian German and English widely understood
- Currency: Euro (EUR)
- Climate: Continental, with cold winters and warm summers, and four distinct seasons
- Best Time to Travel: May to September (spring and summer) for sightseeing, or December to March (winter) for skiing and holiday markets
- Visa: Most EU, EEA, and Swiss nationals don’t need a visa. Other nationals may need a Schengen visa for stays of up to 90 days.
- Power Plugs: Type C and F, 230V
- Time Zone: CET (Central European Time), UTC +1, CEST (Central European Summer Time) during daylight savings time
Where to Fly Into
Vienna International Airport (VIE) is the main international gateway, with major flights arriving in Salzburg (SZG) and Innsbruck (INN) as well.
Budget
- Accommodation: Budget options range from $50-100 per night, mid-range hotels range from $100-200, and luxury accommodations start at $200+ per night.
- Food: Local meals at casual restaurants cost about $10-20, while fine dining can range from $25-60 per meal.
- Transport: Public transportation is efficient and affordable, with a Vienna city travel card costing around $20 for 48 hours. Trains between cities can range from $20-60 depending on distance.
Climate
Austria has a temperate climate with snowy winters and mild summers. Winter is perfect for skiing and winter sports, while the spring and summer months provide ideal conditions for sightseeing and outdoor activities in the stunning alpine scenery.
- Average Temperature (Celsius/Fahrenheit):
- Winter (December to February): -5°C to 2°C (23°F to 36°F)
- Summer (June to August): 18°C to 25°C (64°F to 77°F)
- Spring/Autumn (March to May, September to November): 10°C to 18°C (50°F to 64°F)
Safety
Austria is very safe for travelers, with low crime rates and excellent infrastructure. However, as with any destination, it’s always wise to keep your belongings secure, especially in busy tourist areas.
Top 10 Things to Do in Austria
- Visit Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna: Explore this stunning Baroque palace and its beautiful gardens, once home to the Habsburg monarchy.
- Wander Through the Historic Streets of Vienna: Discover Vienna’s imperial past, from the Hofburg Palace to St. Stephen’s Cathedral and the grand Ringstrasse.
- Go Skiing in the Austrian Alps: Austria is a ski lover’s paradise, with top resorts in Tyrol, Salzburg, and the Arlberg region offering world-class slopes.
- Explore the Old Town of Salzburg: Visit the birthplace of Mozart and wander through the charming cobblestone streets of Salzburg’s UNESCO-listed old town.
- Take a Danube River Cruise: Experience the beauty of Austria’s landscapes from the Danube, with scenic cruises that take you through quaint towns and vineyards.
- Hike in the Austrian Alps: Whether you’re in Tyrol or Salzburg, the Austrian Alps offer countless hiking trails with breathtaking views and pristine nature.
- Tour the Hofburg Palace and Imperial Apartments: Explore Vienna’s Hofburg Palace, the former imperial residence, and discover the treasures of the Habsburg dynasty.
- Admire Art at the Belvedere Palace Museum: Visit this stunning Baroque palace, which houses an impressive collection of Austrian art, including Gustav Klimt’s “The Kiss.”
- Stroll Through the Naschmarkt: Vienna’s largest open-air market offers everything from fresh produce and gourmet food to local delicacies and international flavors.
- Discover the Austrian Wine Regions: Explore the beautiful vineyards of Austria, particularly in regions like Wachau and Burgenland, where you can enjoy local wines and stunning landscapes.