Austria Travel Guide

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Austria is a beautiful country filled with majestic mountains, lush valleys, and charming village life. It is a destination that will transport you back in time, thanks to its wealth of historical sights. But that’s not all – Austria also offers wonderful natural landscapes with its snow-capped peaks, crystal-clear lakes, and stunning meadows, making it one of the best destinations in Europe.

Dive into this Austria travel guide to explore the best of the country:

Overview of Austria

Austria is a country in Central Europe bordered by Germany, Slovakia, the Czech Republic, Hungary, Slovenia, and Italy. With more than 8 million people, Austria is one of the smaller countries in Europe. The terrain of Austria is mainly mountainous due to its location in the Alps, and it is well-known for its beautiful mountain and alpine scenery with lush rolling hills and fields dotted with farms and small villages.

Austria’s capital city, Vienna, is considered one of the most historically rich cities in Europe and boasts a combination of stunning architecture, palaces, and gardens. The city also has a nightlife that includes numerous bars and music venues, such as jazz clubs. In addition, Vienna’s old town provides visitors with an excellent shopping experience while visitors can enjoy classical music performances at the famous Opera House or visit nearby castles.

Famed for its ski resorts but also offering hikes along marked trails during summer months, Austria’s landscape has something to offer year-round travelers. Visiting UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Hallstatt or Eisriesenwelt is popular among tourists thanks to their beautifully preserved city centers and historical landmarks. Beyond cities like Salzburg and Innsbruck, which sits surrounded by mountains with easy access to extensive ski areas, many other quaint towns with excellent Alpine scenery throughout Austria appeal to tourists seeking a tranquil getaway from larger cities, as well as active adventurers who want to explore all Austria, has offer via nature trails or Alps trekking excursions.

History of Austria

Austria is a beautiful and culturally enriched nation in central Europe. Bordered by Germany, the Czech Republic, Hungary, Slovakia, Slovenia, and Italy, Austria has maintained its distinct culture due to its tumultuous history.

The seeds of the current nation-state were sown by the Bavarii tribes in the Iron Age, but it wasn’t until the Middle Ages that it first emerged on the political map of Europe. Throughout its long history, Austria was part of two major empires—the Roman Empire after Emperor Augustus annexed Noricum in 16BCE and the German-Austrian Empire during Napoleon’s dissolution of the Holy Roman Empire in 1806. Then, in 1918 after World War I, it became a republic with democratic parliament without monarchical powers.

Modern-day Austria exists as an independent nation-state with close ties to the EU. However, its essence is maintained through upholding Catholic values and Germanic culture through art gallery visits and historical sites like Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna, which serves as a reminder of how this humble nation grew into a global superpower for centuries despite invasion attempts from various empires throughout time.

Tourist Attractions

Austria is a beautiful country filled with a plethora of tourist attractions. From the stunning mountains of the Alps to the picturesque Austrian lakes, there is something for everyone to enjoy. If you’re looking for historical monuments, Austria’s capital Vienna offers a variety of castles, palaces, and churches to explore.

Whether you plan to stay in Austria for a few days or weeks, you will find something interesting. This guide will help you discover some of Austria’s most incredible tourist attractions.

Vienna

Vienna, the capital of Austria, is one of Europe’s most popular tourist destinations. From grand palaces to magnificent galleries and buzzing opera houses to picturesque public parks, there is so much to explore in Vienna.

For history enthusiasts interested in exploring the city’s vast cultural heritage and appreciating its rich architectural diversity, visiting Vienna’s top attractions is a must. Top attractions such as Schönbrunn Palace, Museum of Fine Arts, Belvedere Palace, and St. Stephen’s Cathedral offer tourists a chance to gain an insight into the city’s incredible past. In addition, art enthusiasts should visit the Leopold Museum, while nature lovers should stroll around Prater Park.

Vienna has many more activities for those looking for something different – from boutique shopping to modern music events like Donauinselfest. Tourists can enjoy all that this vibrant city has to offer without running out of things to do. And for those looking for a traditional European experience with plenty of charming coffee bars and cobblestone streets, there is no better place than Vienna’s romantic Old Town area!

Salzburg

Salzburg is one of the most visited cities in Austria and offers many exciting attractions for visitors. With its ancient fortifications, charming Baroque architecture, and picturesque lakes and mountains, Salzburg makes an ideal destination for a holiday or weekend break. From taking a stroll along the banks of the Salzach River to exploring the many castles and churches in Old Town Salzburg, there are plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained.

One of the top sights in Salzburg is Hohensalzburg Castle, which is perched atop Festungsberg (castle hill). This majestic fortress offers incredible 360-degree views over the city and a fascinating wax museum with replicas of 17th-century figures. Other popular attractions include Mirabell Palace with its beautiful gardens, Hellbrunn Palace with its trick fountains, and Mozart’s Birth Place on Getreidegasse.

The historic city center is pedestrianized, so it’s easy to explore on foot and discover all this beautiful Austrian city offers. Here you can visit the Museum der Moderne Art, where regular exhibitions are held, or take one of many walking tours throughout the city. You can even visit some of Mozart’s haunts, such as his first home at Marktplatz 3a, or take a trip to St Peter’s Cemetery, where he was buried in 1791. There’s something for everyone in Salzburg!

Innsbruck

Innsbruck is a charming alpine town with more than 500 years of history. It is located in the Tyrol region of Austria and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

Famous tourist attractions within the city include:

  • Maria-Theresien-Strasse, a pedestrian street that divides the old town into two halves and is lined with restaurants, grand Baroque buildings, and arcaded shopping centers;
  • Imperial Palace at Hofburg, an elaborate palace complex that has served as the residence and workplace of emperors since its construction in 1460;
  • Goldenes Dachl (Golden Roof), a balcony featuring about 2,657 fire-gilded copper tiles constructed for Emperor Maximilian I;
  • Hofkirche (Court Church), an elaborate monument to Emperor Maximilian I with famous exterior metal statues, including his bronze tomb;
  • The Alpsitz or Bergiseilbahn funicular, Innsbruck’s longest-running mountain transport system, takes visitors to some of the best ski areas near Innsbruck; and
  • Swarovski Kristallwelten (Crystal Worlds) is an unbelievable glass museum filled with crystal-themed exhibits and sculptures.

Visitors can also enjoy numerous outdoor activities in the area, such as skiing and hiking.

Graz

Graz is a culturally rich city located in the southeastern part of Austria. It’s the second-largest city in Austria. It is known for its beautiful old architecture, museums, art galleries, churches, universities, and Culture and Congress Centre Akzent (which houses performances of classical music and theatre).

Graz also has a range of tourist attractions to offer visitors. Popular interests in Graz include the Clock Tower at Landhaus, a 16th Century building located at the northern end of Herrengasse; the 17th Century Graz Opera House; Schlossberg Castle, a 10th-century castle with incredible views across the city; and Murinsel island – an artificial island built on top of Helmut List Hall with bridges connecting it to both sides of the river.

The city’s main shopping area can be found along Herrengasse, where you’ll find quaint shops selling knick-knacks and souvenirs. Other attractions are Schloss Eggenberg Palace, formerly used as a hunting lodge, and Schlossbergbahn cable car, which provides breathtaking views over Graz from its top station Kaiser-Franz-Josefs-Höhe.

Be sure to visit one or two of Graz’s two dozen cafés scattered throughout the city to get your caffeine fix! The oldest coffee house in Europe is located here, which dates back to 1683 – Café Hausmannstätten, which will let you experience café culture like never before. There is no better place than Graz to get an insight into Austrian traditions, so make sure you don’t miss it when visiting Austria!

Hallstatt

Hallstatt is a picturesque town in the Salzkammergut region of Austria, located in the district of Gmunden. Between the steep mountainside and clear blue lake, Hallstatt offers many activities and experiences for visitors. It is a favorite tourist destination during summertime when crystal clear waters attract sunbathers, swimmers, and sailors alike.

The area is known for its rich cultural heritage, boasting well-preserved buildings from centuries ago. Since prehistoric times, Hallstatt’s archaeological significance has been acknowledged by UNESCO, which announced it as a World Heritage Site in 1997. Visitors can marvel at centuries-old salt mines and explore charming cobblestone streets lined with traditional houses.

One of the main attractions in Hallstatt is the funicular railway that takes riders up to the Sky Walk viewing platform with spectacular views over Lake Hallstättersee and beyond. For those seeking adventure, there are plenty of activities like rock climbing or ice climbing on Kalbing mountain and paddling on lake cruises which visitors can explore at their leisure. Several hiking trails also lead to historical sites such as Salt Cathedral or Bone House. In this ancient ossuary, thousands of bones, including entire skeletons complete with clothing, have been discovered!

Hallstatt offers much more than just incredible scenery; guests can also experience unique local culture while exploring small shops selling handmade goods and tasting Austrian specialties such as ‘Kaiserschmarrn,’ trout from the lake, or delicious ‘Apfelstrudel.’ With so much to offer, it’s no wonder that Hallstatt is one of Austria’s most popular tourist destinations!

Accommodation

Austria has a wide range of accommodation choices for travelers of all budgets, from luxury resorts to hostels. With the country’s scenic views and vibrant culture, it is no wonder so many people choose to stay in Austria.

In this section, we’ll go over some of the different accommodation options available in Austria, so you can find a place that will fit your needs and budget:

Hotels

There are numerous excellent choices for travelers to Austria who prefer the comfort and convenience of hotels. From chic boutique hotels in the Vienna city center to cozy guesthouses in the country’s small towns and villages, Austria has plenty of options for accommodation.

Hotels come in all shapes and sizes, from luxurious five-star resorts with spas and swimming pools to no-frills business hotels ideal for short stays. Many larger hotels offer unique services such as onsite restaurants and bars, room service, laundry facilities, concierge desks, and much more. Prices vary according to location, style of the hotel, and season.

In addition to larger chain hotels like Hilton or Best Western, smaller independent properties abound in Austria’s cities and along its picturesque alpine landscapes. Guest houses or Gasthofs are a great way to experience true Austrian hospitality while staying at family-run establishments offering delicious local cuisine. For travelers on a tight budget, there are plenty of hostels available throughout the country and youth hostels associated with the Austrian Youth Hostel Association (ÖJHV).

Hostels

Hostels offer affordable accommodation for backpackers and those traveling on a budget. They are a great way to meet other travelers, and many have various entertainment options, such as bars, restaurants, and organized activities like movie nights or language exchanges.

Hostels in Austria often have excellent facilities, offering laundry services, free Wi-Fi, and comfortable sleeping areas, which are cheap alternatives to standard hotel accommodations.

Hostel prices can vary depending on the destination, but most often, you will get a bed in either a private or shared dorm from €12 ($14) per night, depending on where you go. The shared bathrooms tend to be cleaned daily, and towels are usually available for rent if you don’t bring your own. You can also save money by preparing your food, with kitchen access provided in most hostels in Austria.

Popular hostel chains throughout the country include Wombats Hostels, EasyHotel Austria, and Generator Vienna, providing private rooms and dorms across several cities, including Vienna, Graz, Linz, and Salzburg. These generally have an age limit of around 18-30, with some offering family-friendly options.

Airbnb

Airbnb is an online marketplace connecting travelers seeking accommodations with hosts with space to rent. Airbnb offers a variety of lodging options, from apartments and homes to castles, yurts, and other unique spaces. In addition, Airbnb listings are more affordable than traditional hotels, providing more flexibility regarding length of stay and location.

When booking an Airbnb in Austria, travelers should know that regulations vary by region. In Vienna, for example, Airbnb is legal, but it must meet certain criteria to operate. It includes having a valid business registration number and providing the Vienna Tourism Board with information about their accommodations before listing them on the site.

In addition to landlords needing a business registration number in Vienna, they must also adhere to city-specific regulations regarding the following:

  • Rental contracts.
  • Taxes such as the city’s tourist tax.

Renters should be aware that many cities require property owners to collect a local tourism tax from each guest during their stay; this tax varies by city or region, so renters should ensure they’re aware of it before signing any rental agreement.

Renters and landlords need to understand the local laws surrounding Airbnb usage before embarking on their journey; doing so reduces stress levels on both sides and increases everyone’s likelihood of having an enjoyable experience while traveling in Austria!

Transportation

Austria is known for its stunning scenery and reliable public transportation, making it a great place to explore at your own pace. The country’s rail network is extensive and runs through some of Austria’s most beautiful regions, meaning you can take in the views while traveling. Austria also has an extensive network of roads and highways, making it easy to travel by car.

Let’s explore some of the different transportation options available in Austria:

Airports

Austria is conveniently served by two international airports located in Vienna and Graz.

The Vienna International Airport (VIE) offers direct flights to major cities across Europe and the Middle East and several destinations in North America and Asia. The Graz Airport is Austria’s second busiest airline hub, serving domestic and international flights from various excellent carriers.

Vienna International Airport (VIE) handles more than 22 million passengers each year, operating nonstop flights to over 130 destinations around the globe. The airport’s modern terminal includes all the amenities you need for a comfortable journey, such as restaurants, currency exchange services, duty-free shopping, an information desk, and tourist information points.

Graz Airport is only 20 minutes away from downtown Graz by train or car and provides passengers with over 40 direct routes to locations across Europe. Of course, there are plenty of services available here, too – like currency exchange desks, cafes, and shops – not to mention plenty of parking lots for travelers that wish to leave their cars while they’re away.

If you’re traveling between European cities, you can take advantage of several discounted ‘no frills’ airlines that offer cheaper fares than larger companies. As well as scheduled airlines, numerous charter flights are available, making traveling to Austria an easier task than ever!

Trains

Trains remain one of the most popular ways to commute around Austria. The rail network is exceptionally well maintained and includes quick services to major cities, international connections, and access to a range of ski resorts in the Alps.

The Railjet, IC (Intercity), and EC (EuroCity) services are operated by ÖBB (Austrian Federal Railways). This network also serves many smaller stations that are not connected by other means of transport. The ÖBB website offers an easy-to-navigate list of timetables and tickets.

Long-distance services from neighboring countries, such as Germany, Czech Republic, and Hungary, also arrive in Austria via the following Stations: Wien Westbahnhof in Vienna; Salzburg Hauptbahnhof; Graz Hauptbahnhof; Innsbruck Hauptbahnhof; Linz Hauptbahnhof; Bregenz Bahnhof; and Klagenfurt Buchauer Strasse.

Other than regular trains, travelers can enjoy narrower gauge services run by Rostocker Local Train Network (RLBy). Furthermore, narrow gauge steam engines allow visitors to experience the grandeur of old-style rail transportation across some beautiful alpine regions like the Zillertal Railway or Molltar Railway.

Buses

For visitors exploring Austria, buses offer a convenient and budget-friendly way to get around. There have been recent investments in Austrian bus infrastructure, meaning that buses are now more comfortable and journeys are smoother. In addition, many rural areas not serviced by trains will have some form of bus connectivity.

After purchasing appropriate tickets, visitors can embark on their chosen bus route. Depending on the route and distance traveled, different tickets may be available for single or multiple trips with discounts for specific passenger categories – for example, students or older persons. The ticket must usually be visible during the journey and can be validated within the bus just as on a train. Unfortunately, many of the country’s national buses do not accept credit cards, so cash must be ready upon the ticket purchase.

For those interested in traveling outside of Austria, there is an excellent international long-distance coach service originating from most major cities in Austria to destinations across Europe like Italy, Germany, and Bulgaria. In short journeys between towns or regions, there are usually basic coach services and local services available at a lower cost than trains, so it is worth checking out all options before deciding how to travel within Austria.

Food and Drink

Austria offers a vast array of food and drink options for visitors. From traditional dishes to international cuisine, there is something for everyone.

Traditional Austrian dishes like Wiener Schnitzel, Apple Strudel, and Goulash tend to be hearty and comforting. In addition, there are numerous regional specialties and drinks, including local wines and spirits. For those looking for a more cosmopolitan atmosphere, there are plenty of international restaurants in Vienna and other cities.

Let’s look more in-depth at the food and drink offerings in Austria:

Local Cuisine

The cuisine in Austria is a mix of several influences and traditions, including its centuries-old traditional recipes. Austrian chefs have earned a great reputation for their originality and high-quality preparation techniques, drawing on culinary influences from other European countries. As with many Austrians’ homes, Austrian eateries prepare lovely homemade dishes.

There are two regional variations in Austria’s cuisine: Northern and Eastern (Bavarian). The North features traditionally heavier meals such as roasts and side dishes of noodles or potatoes. Similarly, soups accompany some main courses in the South.

Typical dishes include Wiener Schnitzel (a breaded fried veal escalope), Tafelspitz (boiled beef with potatoes), Knödel (dumplings), or Schupfnudeln (noodles) served with sauerkraut (pickled cabbage). In addition, soul-warming soups such as Grießsuppe (semolina pudding soup) or Gulaschsuppe garnished with dumplings are ideal starters to any meal.

Portions are often unexpectedly large on menu items, with deliciously creamy sauces, for example, cooked over low heat for hours to bring out fantastic flavor profiles. Popular desserts include Kaiserschmarrn, a sweet pancake pulled apart into chunks and served with fruit, or Dresdner Christstollen, a sweet fruit cake made of spices and raisins, and marzipan rolled into one delicious treat. Austrian cuisine is also home to world-renowned bakery goods like Apfelstrudel, a pastry consisting of an apple filling wrapped in dough soaked in butter.

Where to Eat

Austria offers a great variety of places to eat and drink, from traditional inns and Gasthousens to modern restaurants, cafes, and bistros. Here are some ideas for where to go for satisfying local cuisine.

Traditional Austrian Cuisine: The country’s dishes are hearty, rich in flavor, and feature many plants in the nearby countryside. Regional favorites include hearty stews such as goulash, Wiener Schnitzel made from breaded veal cutlets, roast pork with sauerkraut, Apfelstrudel (a sweet pastry), Kaiserschmarrn (pancake-like dish) and knödel (dumplings). Popular drinks include Austrian beer and the famous ‘Gemischter Satz’ wine.

Modern Austrian Food: In recent years, there has been an upsurge of modern fusion-style cuisine peppered with Asian spices and unusual combinations of traditional ingredients, such as carpaccio of deer with cranberries served on a bed of rocket salad. Austria also has a vibrant coffee culture with independent cafés serving Viennese specialties like melange (espresso topped with hot milk) or Einspänner (coffee topped with sweetened whipped cream). In addition, delicious cakes like Sachertorte – chocolate sponge neatly layered apricot jam – or Apfelstrudel are often served in Cafes or as dessert options in restaurants.

International Cuisine: International restaurants offering Thai, Chinese or Mexican flavors have become increasingly popular within Austria’s growing culinary scene. Pizza is usually available on most restaurant menus, although it is not always made using traditional Italian recipes. Vegetarian food is also easy to find in most towns, although veganism may still be more niche than elsewhere in Europe.

Where to Drink

Austria is a lovely place for an alcoholic beverage or two. Local specialties include beer, particularly bitterExport, red or gold types, and lighter Lager brands like Mühlviertler and Zipfer. Wine is an integral part of the country’s culture, with many regions dedicated to production. Austrian wines are generally of high quality and taste delicious with local cuisine. In addition, there are numerous traditional wine taverns (Heurige) where you can purchase directly from the vineyard owner (if he is not closed on Mondays!). The local spirit is called “Almdudler.” It has a sweet taste and can be served at room temperature in shot glasses.

The age limit for buying alcohol in Austria is 18 years old, though minors will be allowed in a pub if their parents accompany them. When dining, it’s not unusual to find that customers treat themselves to a bottle of beer or wine rather than ordering individual measures. In some bars, you may also find draught beers from smaller breweries (Brauhäuser), which often offer regional specialties. There are also lively wine bars favored by the young crowd where food may not be served, with the focus being centered solely on drinks selection, including various kinds of schnapps made with well-known brandies such as Williams Christ or plum brandy (Zwetschke).

Cocktails are becoming increasingly popular, and you’ll find lots of bars serving seasonal favorites and some old-school classics like Cosmopolitan, Pina Colada, or Tom Collins. Notable pubs with pool tables and Casino nights are also available in cities such as Vienna or Graz!

Safety

Austria is a safe and well-developed country and is considered one of the safest countries in Europe to visit. The police in Austria are efficient and very well-trained to handle a variety of issues. Violent crime rates in Austria are low. However, it is still important to take the necessary precautions when traveling in Austria:

  • Avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
  • Be aware of your surroundings.
  • Keep your valuables in a secure location.
  • Avoid walking alone at night.
  • Be mindful of pickpockets.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is a must-have for every traveler visiting Austria, no matter how short a trip. Whether you are partaking in activities such as skiing, hiking, cycling outdoors, or simply sightseeing in Vienna’s city center, the right travel insurance policy will protect you against unexpected illness, accidents, lost luggage, and incidents while traveling.

When choosing a travel insurance policy for Austria, it is important to ensure that your plan has adequate coverage for your specific needs. These may include coverage for:

  • emergency medical evacuations and medical expenses;
  • trip cancellation/interruption coverage; and
  • protection from delayed flights or lost/damaged luggage.

Additionally, depending on the activities you plan to partake in during your trip to Austria – such as skiing or mountain biking – many travelers purchase specialty sports accident policies that may provide additional coverages unique to these activities.

No one plans for the unexpected when traveling abroad – but having the right travel insurance policy will offer peace of mind when venturing off the beaten path to explore all that Austria has to offer!

Common Scams

Awareness of common scams can help protect you from dishonest and unethical people while visiting Austria. Unfortunately, as with any tourist destination, some individuals will always seek to take advantage of unaware visitors. Be aware of the following scams that may occur in crowded tourist areas and around popular attractions:

  1. Fake Help: Someone may offer help with a ticket purchase, tourist information, or navigating the city but then insist on being paid for their assistance after the job is done.
  2. Slippery Hands: Be wary of anyone who tries to distract you with a game or a trick to grab your wallet.
  3. Pickpocketing: The use of sleight of hand to remove an item without being detected is an ongoing problem in crowded spaces or on public transportation in Vienna and other cities in Austria. Therefore, remember always to keep your bags close by you and have control over your wallet and other valuables at all times.
  4. Petty Crimes: In some tourist areas, such as Old Town Vienna have been reports of con artists stealing items from bags outside restaurants or walking down the street while they offer unsuspecting tourists maps, souvenirs, or advice with the main goal being to sell these items to them for an exorbitant price.
  5. Fake Police: Victims are offered crime paperwork asking for a small on-the-spot fine for minor infractions such as drinking alcohol outside authorized areas or not disposing of litter correctly. It’s important not to give any money away until law enforcement officers have been verified – real police officers should be able to show photo identification that includes contact details which victims can check through official channels before paying any fines imposed by fake police officers.

Emergency Services

When traveling in Austria, it is essential to be familiar with the emergency services available. Austria boasts an extensive network of police, fire, and hospital services that can be called upon at any time of day or night.

In case of a medical emergency, dial 144 to get an ambulance dispatched to your location. Emergency staff are trained and experienced in addressing medical needs in any situation; they are on call 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

If there is a fire emergency, dial 122 to promptly reach the fire department. Fire departments across Austria are well-equipped and operational 24/7 to handle any residential or public building blaze.

Dial 133 for the police assistance line in case of an emergency involving law enforcement or another criminal investigation. The police staff is up-to-date with security measures and can assist you with filing incident reports, dealing with crime scenes, and investigating theft or assault cases.

Visitors need to be aware when traveling in another country that emergency services may operate differently than what they are used to at home – take some time before leaving home to become familiar with how services run where you plan on visiting; this could potentially save you from experiencing a stressful situation during your trip abroad!