Things to Do in Austria

About Austria

Austria mixes imperial palaces with Alpine peaks in ways few countries can match. Mozart's music still fills Salzburg's concert halls, the Danube cuts through former empire territory, and cafés everywhere invite you to sit and practice gemütlichkeit. Worth your time. Vienna's coffeehouses feature crystal chandeliers, while Innsbruck sits beneath mountains that dominate the skyline—cultural depth meets natural drama. Tradition here is everyday life, not a museum exhibit: trams waltz through old districts each morning, and concerts happen in venues where musical legends performed. The Austrian character shows itself in small moments. Watch mist rise over Hallstatt's lake, listen to church bells bounce across Alpine meadows, or notice that time feels different when beauty this old surrounds you.

Travel Tips

Transportation: Purchase the ÖBB Vorteilscard for 50% off train fares if staying longer than a week. Austria's punctual rail system connects major cities efficiently, while regional buses serve remote alpine villages. In cities, buy day passes for trams and metros rather than single tickets.

Money: Austria uses the Euro with widespread card acceptance, but carry cash for traditional cafés, markets, and tourist tax (typically €1-4 per night). Tipping is 5-10% by rounding up the bill. ATMs are abundant, though some charge fees for foreign cards.

Cultural Respect: Address people formally with 'Sie' and titles like 'Herr/Frau' until invited otherwise. Remove hats in churches, dress modestly for religious sites, and avoid loud conversations on public transport. Austrians appreciate punctuality and quiet, respectful behavior in cultural venues.

Food Safety: Tap water is excellent throughout Austria. Traditional restaurants display menus outside—avoid touristy spots without prices listed. Try local specialties like Wiener Schnitzel and Sachertorte at established Gasthäuses. Food safety standards are very high; street food is generally safe.

When to Visit

Austria's distinct seasons each offer unique charms and considerations.Spring (April-May)brings mild temperatures of 10-20°C, blooming alpine meadows, and 30% lower accommodation prices than peak season. Expect occasional rain showers but fewer crowds at major attractions.Summer (June-August)is peak season with temperatures of 20-25°C, perfect for hiking and outdoor festivals, but expect 40-50% higher prices and crowded tourist sites. The Salzburg Festival (July-August) transforms the city into a classical music mecca.Autumn (September-October)offers ideal weather (15-20°C), impressive fall foliage, and wine harvest season in the Wachau Valley, with moderate pricing and pleasant touring conditions.Winter (November-March)divides into two experiences: December brings magical Christmas markets despite temperatures of 0-5°C and premium holiday pricing (30-40% above average), while January-March offers excellent skiing conditions in the Alps with temperatures often below freezing. Vienna's ball season (January-February) creates a romantic winter atmosphere. Budget travelers should target November or early March, while culture ensoiasts will find autumn optimal for museums and concerts without summer crowds. Outdoor adventurers should choose summer for hiking or winter for excellent skiing in Innsbruck, St. Anton, or Salzburg regions.