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We're Andre & Lisa, adventurers and experienced budget travelers.

We have over two decades of travel experience and since 2018 have led a full-time nomadic lifestyle.

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AUSTRIA TRAVEL GUIDE

Country Introduction

With glorious Alpine scenery, monumental Habsburg architecture, some of Europe’s most varied museums, and contemporary architecture, Austria has it all. It was once part of the influential Austro-Hungarian Empire and has a rich musical heritage, being the birthplace of many famous composers like Mozart and Strauss. Vienna, the capital, has been a significant cultural and intellectual hub throughout history, drawing creatives and intellectuals from across Europe.

Although Austria is known as the winter sports capital of Europe, it is just as popular for summer tourists who visit its historic cities and villages and hike in the magnificent scenery of the Alps. Austria is perfect to visit any time of year and any outdoor lover's dream.

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Quick Facts

Austria is officially known as the Republic of Austria and is landlocked and bordered by eight countries, including Germany, Italy, and Switzerland.

The country's landscape is predominantly mountainous, with the majestic Alps covering a large area, and it boasts the Grossglockner as its highest peak at 3,798 meters.

The official language is German, and the currency is the Euro (€). English is widely spoken, and the only area most tourists have linguistic problems with is in translating menus. In rural places, however, older people often don't speak any English and it will help to learn a few basic German phrases if travelling to such places.
Electricity is 230V and power outlets are round two-prong sockets (type F which also accepts type C and type E).
Austria is one of the safest countries in the world with violent crime a rarity. Small towns and even uninhabited areas such as forests are incredibly safe at any time of the day. However, beware of pickpockets in crowded places. Bicycle theft can be a problem in bigger cities but is virtually absent in smaller towns. Whatever you do, don’t travel without travel insurance! We would suggest checking out World Nomads, for travel insurance as they have the best coverage for active travellers.

Fun Facts:

Austria introduced the world to the first postcards and has the oldest national flag design in the world, dating back to the 12th century.
Austria boasts the world's oldest zoo, the Tiergarten Schönbrunn founded in 1752, and the Austrian National Library, which is one of the major libraries globally.

Festivals

Many visitors come to experience Austria's rich musical heritage with especially Salzburg and Vienna offering world-renowned opera, classical music, and jazz. For some festivals, it is necessary to book tickets to events or shows well in advance. That said, outside of these locations you will still find plenty of smaller local festivals well worth experiencing.

Schubertiade: This festival is dedicated to the music of Franz Schubert and is widely regarded as the most important Schubert music festival in the world. The festival takes place every year in Hohenems during April and October and prides itself in keeping its venues small and intimate which hugely adds to its popularity.
Salzburg Festival: The Salzburger Festspiele (held annually from July to September) dates back to 1920 and is the most famous event in Austria. This festival offers both musical and theatrical performances held throughout the city of Salzburg. The festival primarily celebrates the life of Wolfgang Mozart, who was born in Salzburg.
Vienna Weihnachtsmarkt: If you find yourself in Austria during November and December, you absolutely should not miss the famous Weichnachtsmarket (Christmas Market), in Vienna. Christmas in Austria is not quite as commercial as it is in the US, but families still enjoy typical Christmas eats and drinks, such as glühwein (hot wine) and lebkuchen (gingerbread).

Donauinselfest: The Donauinselfest is an annual open-air free music festival usually held in mid-June in Vienna. This annual outdoor festival lasts for three days and is Europe's biggest open-air event and hosts top Austrian bands as well as internationally recognised musicians.
Snowbombing: This popular week-long winter sports and music festival is held annually during the spring at the Austrian ski resort of Mayrhofen. What started as a DJ and electronic dance music event now also has a host of live acts - reflecting the popularity and resurgence of indie-rock music. Winter sport is the prime focus, and the event combines popular activities (of which snowboarding seems to lead the charge) with music performances and themed parties in unusual locations.
Bregenz Festival: With a history going back 60 years, the Bregenzer Festspiele attracts opera lovers from all over the world. Spectacular, open-air operatic performances are held on a lake in the old town of Feldkirch during the summer period of July to August. Floating barges are constructed on the lake with the surrounding area transformed into a giant outdoor stage.

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SEASONS AT A GLANCE

Most destinations have different times of the year when they’re more or less popular with tourists.

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Climate Chart with avergae monthly temperatues and rainfall

BEST TIME TO VISIT AUSTRIA

Best time to visit

Peak tourist season in Austria is actually split between summer and winter and choosing the best time to visit Austria might entirely depend on your reasons for visiting and what you plan on doing during your stay.

July & August - Alpine hiking in Tyrol, lake swimming in Salzkammergut, and lots of summer festivals.
September & October - New wine in vineyards near Vienna, golden forest strolls, and fewer crowds.
December & January - Christmas markets, skiing in the Alps and Vienna, waltzing into the New Year.

Generally, winter is busier than summer when hordes of skiers and snowboarders seek out the powdery slopes over the Christmas and New Year periods.

The best time to visit Vienna and Salzberg is during spring and autumn as the weather is pleasant and you might avoid the peak tourist months of August and September when these popular cities burst at their seams. During this time most of the major music and art festivals take place and you will find limited options for accommodation and very full restaurants.

During summer months the mountain regions are very pleasant in between the odd summer shower and especially in the Alpine region, evenings can be cool.

BEST TIME FOR:

Snow Sports

Austria offers a plethora of snow sport opportunities, especially for those seeking a challenge. Resorts like St. Anton and Mayrhofen are renowned for their advanced terrain, with St. Anton boasting a range of difficult runs and Mayrhofen home to the Harakiri piste, Austria's steepest slope.

The best time for snow sports in Austria is typically January, after the holiday crowds have dissipated, providing a balance of good snow conditions and fewer people. For those looking to avoid crowds altogether, late November, early December, and the middle two weeks of March are recommended.

Hiking and trekking

Austria offers a plethora of hiking and cycling opportunities, with its picturesque landscapes and well-maintained trails. The best time for these activities is during the shoulder seasons, particularly in September and October, when the weather is mild, and the summer crowds have dissipated.

Trails like the Vienna City Hiking Trail or the panoramic Kahlenberg are perfect for hikers, while cyclists can enjoy routes like the Salzkammergut Lake District Tour. These months not only provide comfortable temperatures but also the chance to witness the stunning autumnal colours decorating the Austrian countryside.

Salzkammergut Lake District

Best Beaches

Austria, known for its picturesque landscapes, also offers a variety of beautiful beaches. Noteworthy spots include the Badestrand Hallstatt, which provides stunning views and clear waters, and the Strandbad Velden, popular for its clean facilities and family-friendly atmosphere.

The best time to visit these beaches is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm and conducive for outdoor activities. During this period, you can enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and the natural beauty of Austria's lakeside beaches.

Surfing

Austria offers unique surfing experiences despite being a landlocked country. The Eisbach River in Munich, close to the Austrian border, is a famous river surfing spot, and Vienna boasts the Citywave pool for consistent waves year-round.

For a natural setting, the Austrian Alps provide alpine surfing opportunities. The best time for surfing in Austria is typically autumn, when river waves are optimal, but facilities like Citywave allow for surfing at any time of the year.

Wind Sport

Austria offers a unique kitesurfing experience with its beautiful Alpine lakes and consistent winds, especially at Lake Neusiedl, which is known for its reliable conditions and is a popular spot for both beginners and advanced kitesurfers.

The best time for kitesurfing in Austria is from late spring to early autumn, with peak conditions from May to September, when the thermal winds provide excellent kitesurfing opportunities. Additionally, the Tyrol region offers a distinct experience with its mountainous landscapes and lakes like Achensee, which is famous for its strong thermic winds during the summer months.

For more details on kite surfing in Austria expand this section!

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AUSTRIA TRAVEL COSTS

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Consider visiting Austria during the shoulder season as prices are generally higher during the winter months when people head to the Alps for skiing. They're also higher during the mid-summer months when many families travel here on vacation. You're likely to find the best deals during the spring or fall months when tourist crowds are at a minimum and demand is at its lowest. Do not forget to consider the entry fees for museums and historical buildings in your budget as these can prove to be fairly expensive!

You should plan to spend around $120 per day on your vacation in Austria. On average, expect to spend $30 on meals for one day and $20 on local transportation. Hotels are plentiful throughout the country. Expect to pay about $50 - $60 for a simple double room outside of the touristy areas, and up to $70-$130 in the busier towns.

GETTING AROUND AUSTRIA

Rural or sparsely populated regions in Austria are easier to explore by car as bus services can be infrequent. Many popular activity spots in the mountains are really accessible only by car or on foot.

Rent a car if you plan to explore rural or mountainous areas not well-served by public transport. Book in advance to get the best rates. Opt for smaller cars to save on rental and fuel costs. If you will be driving on Austrian motorways you will be liable to pay toll fees - which are done in the form of a Vignette toll pass, which should be purchased in advance at any petrol station at the border, or online.

Intercity trains are punctual and with a comprehensive network, it covers most of Austria. Unless you are doing a lot of intercity travelling in 3 days, individual tickets are actually cheaper than the one-country pass. Comfortable and moderately priced, these trains connect major cities and many towns. Use the ÖBB for intercity travel. Book tickets online in advance for discounts.

Buses serve less significant towns and lakes, and these two forms of transport are integrated and designed to complement each other - intercity coaches exist but don't provide anywhere near the level of intercity rail service.

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TRAVEL TIPS FOR AUSTRIA

Visiting Austria for the first time can be a wonderful experience, full of beautiful landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your trip, including how to save money and navigate the country efficiently:

Saving Money in Austria

Accommodation:

Book in Advance: Secure your lodging early to get the best deals, especially during peak seasons.
Stay in Hostels or Budget Hotels: Look for hostels, guesthouses, or budget hotels. Consider using Airbnb for affordable and unique accommodations.
Stay Outside City Centers: Accommodation outside the main tourist areas is often cheaper and still well-connected by public transport.

Meals:

Eat Like a Local: Visit neighbourhood markets and grocery stores. Supermarkets like Spar, Billa, and Hofer (Aldi) offer good value.
Lunch Specials: Opt for lunches rather than dinners. Many restaurants offer cheaper lunch menus (Mittagsmenü).
Street Food and Bakeries: Have a bite at street vendors and bakeries (Bäckerei) for affordable and tasty meals.

Sightseeing:

City Cards: Many cities, like Vienna and Salzburg, offer city cards (e.g., Vienna Pass, Salzburg Card, Innsbruck City Pass) that include free or discounted entry to attractions and public transport.
Free Attractions: Explore free attractions such as parks, historical sites, and some museums. Cities like Vienna have numerous free activities.
Walking Tours: Join free walking tours (tip-based) to learn about the city’s history and culture from knowledgeable guides.

General Tips fo visiting Austria

Learn Basic German Phrases: While many Austrians speak English, knowing some basic German phrases can enhance your experience and help in rural areas.
Carry Some Cash: Smaller businesses and restaurants may prefer cash. ATMs are widely available.
Politeness and Punctuality: Austrians value politeness and punctuality. Always greet with a friendly “Grüß Gott” or “Guten Tag” and be on time for appointments and tours.

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REGIONS & HIGHLIGHTS OF AUSTRIA

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