Austria Travel Guide

Looking for an in-depth Austria travel guide?

Then you’re in the right place!

Nestled amidst the majesty of the Alps, this gem of Central Europe is a symphony of sparkling lakes, enchanting forests, and mountain vistas that will captivate your spirit and invigorate your senses.

Austria is a destination that is as diverse as it is beautiful. From the cosmopolitan allure of Vienna, a city bathed in the echoes of Mozart and Klimt, to the baroque architecture of Salzburg, the birthplace of Mozart himself.

Visit Innsbruck, where urban and alpine worlds merge seamlessly, or stroll through the charming, cobbled streets of Graz.

Each corner of Austria offers a unique tableau of experiences waiting to be discovered. This guide will offer you a peek behind the velvet curtains of Austria, providing tips to traverse its iconic landscapes, explore its vibrant cities, indulge in its world-class culinary offerings, and immerse yourself in its unique traditions.

Whether you’re a lover of the arts, an outdoor enthusiast, or a history aficionado, Austria is a country that promises to leave you with an unforgettable travel tapestry of your own.

So tighten your hiking boots or polish your opera glasses, because an Austrian adventure, brimming with magnificent sights, sounds, and tastes, awaits.

Ready to book? Keep reading to dive into resources that will help you with planning a trip to Austria in Europe.

Note: This ultimate guide to Austria travel contains affiliate links to trusted partners!

Map Of Austria

Use this Austria travel map to begin planning your trip to this incredible country!

Click here for an interactive Google Map version of the above graphic.

Austria Travel Guide

Plan an unforgettable trip to Austria with the following guides!

Europe Travel Tips

The following Europe travel advice can help you plan the perfect trip!

Best Austria Tours

Explore local culture with a Austrian tour guide through these unique excursions:

• The Original Sound of Music Tour in Salzburg
• Hallstatt and Alps Day Trip from Vienna with Skywalk
• Bavarian Mountains including Eagle’s Nest & Salt Mines from Salzburg
• Melk Abbey and Danube Valley Day Trip from Vienna
• Vienna’s Highlights: Food, Coffee & Market Walking Experience

Click here for a full list of Austria travel tours!

Renting A Car In Austria

Need a rental car for your Austria trip? Use Discover Cars to quickly compare your car rental options.

Their comparison tool does the homework for you, so there’s no need to have up 10+ tabs trying to figure out which company is the most affordable. Actually, you can save up to 70% using their tool!

Austria Train Travel

Getting around Austria by train, bus, or ferry? Omio is a must! I use this tool for all of my public transportation needs when traveling Europe.

The site is straightforward and user-friendly — and you can pre-book your tickets in advance at a discount. They even offer flight and car deals!

Austria Hotels

Click here to browse the best Austria travel hotels!

Prefer self-contained stays?

Click here to check out unique local rentals!

You can also use this map to search for local stays. It’s currently set to the Innere Stadt district of Vienna, but you can easily change it to your preferred destination:

Austria Travel Insurance

When visiting Austria — or any other country in the world — make sure to get travel insurance to protect your health and safety.

In my opinion, the best travel medical insurance for travelers is SafetyWing as they’ve got a large network and offer both short-term and long-term coverage — including coverage if you’re traveling for months as well as limited coverage in your home country).

Additionally, SafetyWing is budget-friendly and offers $250,000 worth of coverage with just one low overall deductible of $250.

With coverage, you’ll have peace of mind as you embark on your Austria travel itinerary.

Click my referral link here to price out travel insurance for your trip in just a few clicks.

Austria Travel Guide FAQ

Below, find answers to frequently asked questions about traveling in Austria.

Q: What is the best month to go to Austria?

The best time to visit Austria largely depends on the activities you’re interested in. For skiing and winter sports, December to March are ideal, while for hiking, sightseeing, and enjoying the beautiful landscapes, the milder weather in late spring to early autumn, particularly May through September, is preferable.

Q: How many days do you need for Austria?

An ideal trip to Austria, covering key destinations like Vienna, Salzburg, and Innsbruck, would typically require around 7 to 10 days. However, if you wish to explore more thoroughly, including smaller towns, natural landmarks, or engaging in activities like hiking or skiing, you may want to consider extending your stay to two weeks or more.

Q: Is it expensive to vacation in Austria?

While the cost can vary depending on your travel preferences, Austria is generally considered a moderately expensive destination. Major cities like Vienna and Salzburg can be pricier, particularly for dining and accommodation, but with careful planning, such as utilizing public transportation and choosing affordable eateries, it’s possible to manage expenses.

Q: What are some travel tips for Austria?

When in Austria, try to learn a few basic phrases in German, as it’s the country’s official language and locals appreciate the effort. Also, use public transportation, particularly the efficient train system, to get around major cities and even between towns. Finally, while Austria is famous for its cities, don’t forget to explore the countryside, where you can enjoy scenic hikes, charming villages, and renowned vineyards.

Q: Is it safe to travel in Austria?

Yes, Austria is generally considered a very safe country for travelers, with low crime rates and high levels of safety in both urban and rural areas. However, as with any travel destination, it’s advisable to stay alert, especially in crowded places, and always secure your belongings.

Q: How long can a tourist stay in Austria?

Travelers from many countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and many European countries, can stay in Austria without a visa for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. For longer stays or if you’re from a country not covered by this rule, you may need to apply for a visa. Always check the most recent visa regulations before your travel.

Q: Where is Austria?

Austria is located in Central Europe, bordered by eight countries: Germany and the Czech Republic to the north, Slovakia and Hungary to the east, Slovenia and Italy to the south, and Switzerland and Liechtenstein to the west. Its landscape is largely defined by the Eastern Alps.

Q: Are credit cards accepted in Austria?

Yes, credit cards, particularly Visa and MasterCard, are widely accepted in Austria, especially in urban areas, hotels, and most restaurants. However, it’s always a good idea to carry some cash for smaller establishments, particularly in rural areas or local markets, where card payment may not always be possible.

Q: Can you drink the tap water in Austria?

Yes, tap water in Austria is of very high quality and is safe to drink. In fact, much of the country’s tap water comes directly from spring water sources in the Alps, making it some of the cleanest and freshest water you’ll find.

What would you add to this Austria travel guide?