Austria Safety Guide
Health, security, and travel safety information
Emergency Numbers
Save these numbers before your trip.
Healthcare
What to know about medical care in Austria.
Healthcare System
Austria has a world-class universal healthcare system with excellent medical facilities and highly trained professionals. The country ranks among the top healthcare systems globally, with modern hospitals, well-equipped clinics, and comprehensive emergency services available throughout the country.
Hospitals
Major cities have multiple hospitals with emergency departments (Unfallkrankenhaus). Vienna's AKH (Allgemeines Krankenhaus) is one of Europe's largest hospitals. Private hospitals like Privatklinik Rudolfinerhaus offer services specifically catering to international patients. EU citizens with a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) can access public healthcare at reduced or no cost.
Pharmacies
Pharmacies (Apotheke) are widely available and identifiable by a red 'A' sign. Pharmacists are highly trained and can provide advice on minor ailments. Many over-the-counter medications available elsewhere require prescriptions in Austria. After-hours pharmacies (Apotheken-Bereitschaftsdienst) operate on rotation; locations are posted on pharmacy doors and available online.
Insurance
Travel insurance with comprehensive medical coverage is highly recommended for non-EU citizens, as healthcare can be expensive without insurance. EU citizens should carry their EHIC card. Travel insurance should include mountain rescue coverage if planning alpine activities, as these services can cost thousands of euros.
Healthcare Tips
- Carry your EHIC card if you're an EU citizen, or proof of travel insurance
- Mountain rescue and helicopter evacuation are not always covered by standard insurance - verify your policy includes these services
- Pharmacies cannot dispense many common medications without a prescription, so bring adequate supplies of regular medications
- Keep copies of prescriptions in English and generic drug names, as brand names may differ
- Tap water is safe to drink throughout Austria and is of excellent quality
- The Austrian healthcare system requires upfront payment in many cases, with reimbursement later, so ensure you have adequate funds or appropriate insurance
Common Risks
Be aware of these potential issues.
Pickpocketing and bag snatching occur primarily in tourist-heavy areas, public transportation, and crowded venues. Professional pickpockets often work in teams and target distracted tourists at attractions, markets, and transport hubs.
Austria has extensive cycling infrastructure, but accidents involving tourists unfamiliar with bike lanes, traffic rules, and e-scooters are increasingly common. Cyclists have right-of-way in many situations that may be unfamiliar to visitors.
Mountain activities carry inherent risks including avalanches, sudden weather changes, falls, altitude sickness, and getting lost. Many tourists underestimate alpine conditions and overestimate their abilities. Weather can change rapidly at altitude.
Ski accidents are relatively common, ranging from minor injuries to serious trauma. Collisions, loss of control, and skiing beyond ability level are primary causes. Off-piste skiing carries additional avalanche risk.
Rental cars and vehicles with foreign plates are sometimes targeted for break-ins, particularly at tourist attractions and hiking trailheads where cars are left unattended for hours.
Ticks carrying Lyme disease and tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) are present in Austria's forests and grasslands. Risk is highest from spring to autumn.
Scams to Avoid
Watch out for these common tourist scams.
Individuals posing as plainclothes police officers approach tourists, claim to be investigating counterfeit money or drugs, and ask to inspect wallets or bags. They then steal cash or cards during the 'inspection.'
Unlicensed taxi drivers or legitimate drivers take unnecessarily long routes, claim the meter is broken and charge excessive flat rates, or add fake surcharges for luggage or night service.
Some tourist-oriented restaurants add items you didn't order (bread, water, condiments) to the bill, charge for 'cover' or 'service' that isn't clearly advertised, or bring the wrong change.
Individuals approach tourists offering to tie a 'friendship bracelet' or give a 'free' flower or rosemary sprig, then aggressively demand payment once it's in your hand or on your wrist.
Exchange offices in tourist areas offer poor rates with hidden fees, use confusing calculations, or employ sleight of hand when counting money.
People with clipboards ask tourists to sign petitions (often claiming to be for deaf/mute charities), then demand donations. While you're distracted signing, accomplices may pickpocket you.
Fake hotel websites or social media ads offer too-good-to-be-true rates, collect payment, then disappear. Some scammers call hotels claiming to be guests who need to update credit card information.
Safety Tips
Practical advice to stay safe.
Public Transportation
- Vienna's public transport is very safe and efficient; validate tickets to avoid fines of €105
- Watch for pickpockets on crowded U-Bahn lines (especially U1, U3, U4) and trams during rush hour
- Keep bags in front of you and zipped closed, especially at major stations like Westbahnhof and Hauptbahnhof
- Night buses and U-Bahn services are generally safe, but stay alert late at night
- Bicycle lanes are taken seriously; pedestrians should avoid walking in them to prevent accidents
Money and Valuables
- Austria is largely cashless-friendly, but some smaller establishments, Christmas markets, and mountain huts prefer cash
- ATMs are widely available and generally safe; use machines inside banks when possible
- Credit card fraud is relatively rare, but shield your PIN when entering it
- Keep emergency cash and a backup card separate from your main wallet
- Hotel safes are generally reliable for storing passports and valuables
- Tipping is customary (5-10% in restaurants); round up for taxis and small services
Accommodation Safety
- Hotels and hostels maintain high safety standards; check for fire exits upon arrival
- Use hotel safes for passports and valuables
- Verify hotel details independently if booking through third parties to avoid scam websites
- Airbnb and vacation rentals are generally safe; read reviews carefully
- Keep your room locked and use door security features
- Be cautious of unsolicited knocks; verify staff identity before opening doors
Driving and Road Safety
- Vignette (toll sticker) is required for highways; purchase before entering motorways to avoid fines
- Winter tires are mandatory from November 1 to April 15 in winter conditions; snow chains may be required in mountains
- Speed limits are strictly enforced with cameras; fines are substantial
- Blood alcohol limit is 0.05% (0.01% for new drivers); penalties are severe
- Mountain roads can be challenging with hairpin turns and steep grades; drive cautiously
- Parking regulations are strict in cities; use paid parking or park-and-ride facilities
- Keep headlights on when driving through tunnels
- Give way to vehicles coming from the right at unmarked intersections
Outdoor Activities
- Always inform someone of your hiking plans and expected return time
- Carry the '10 essentials' including map, first aid, extra food/water, and emergency shelter
- Download offline maps as cell service can be unreliable in mountains
- Respect marked trails and private property (trespassing laws are enforced)
- Mountain huts (Hütte) provide refuge and should be used in emergencies
- Swimming in alpine lakes is at your own risk; water is very cold even in summer
- Follow via ferrata safety protocols and use proper equipment
- Be aware that mountain rescue costs can exceed €10,000 without proper insurance
Cultural Awareness
- Austrians value punctuality, quietness in public spaces, and following rules
- Sunday shopping is very limited; plan accordingly as most stores are closed
- Quiet hours (Ruhezeit) are typically 22:00-06:00 and all day Sunday; respect noise restrictions
- Greeting shopkeepers with 'Grüß Gott' or 'Guten Tag' is expected; say 'Auf Wiedersehen' when leaving
- Jaywalking is frowned upon and can result in fines; use crosswalks
- Photography may be restricted in museums and churches; ask before taking photos
- Smoking is banned in restaurants and bars, but common in outdoor seating areas
Emergency Preparedness
- Save emergency numbers in your phone: 112 (general), 133 (police), 144 (ambulance), 140 (mountain rescue)
- Keep a copy of your passport and important documents separate from originals
- Register with your embassy if staying long-term
- Download offline maps and translation apps before traveling to remote areas
- Carry a basic first aid kit, especially for outdoor activities
- Know the location of your country's embassy or consulate in Vienna
- Keep travel insurance documents and emergency contact numbers easily accessible
Information for Specific Travelers
Safety considerations for different traveler groups.
Women Travelers
Austria is very safe for women travelers, including solo female travelers. The country has low rates of harassment and violence, strong legal protections, and generally respectful social norms. Women can confidently explore cities, use public transportation at night, and dine alone without significant concerns. However, standard precautions should still be taken, particularly in nightlife areas and when consuming alcohol.
- Solo travel is very safe; women commonly travel alone in Austria without issues
- Public transportation is safe at all hours, though staying alert on late-night services is advisable
- Catcalling and harassment are relatively rare compared to many countries, but can occur in nightlife districts
- Austrians generally respect personal space; unwanted attention should be firmly declined
- Solo dining is completely normal and women won't receive unwanted attention in restaurants
- Hiking alone is generally safe on popular trails, but inform someone of your plans
- Trust your instincts; if a situation feels uncomfortable, remove yourself
- Hotel and hostel staff are professional; solo women booking rooms is completely normal
- Women-only compartments are not available on trains, but general compartments are very safe
- Emergency services are responsive and professional; don't hesitate to call if needed
- Nightlife is generally safe, but watch your drinks and stay with friends in clubs
- Dress codes are liberal; wear what you're comfortable in, though modest dress may be appreciated in rural areas and churches
LGBTQ+ Travelers
Austria has strong legal protections for LGBTQ+ individuals. Same-sex marriage has been legal since 2019, discrimination based on sexual orientation is prohibited, and Vienna is considered one of Europe's most LGBTQ+-friendly cities. The legal age of consent is equal for all orientations (14 years).
- Vienna has a vibrant LGBTQ+ scene, particularly in the Naschmarkt area and 6th district (Mariahilf)
- Same-sex couples can openly show affection in cities without significant issues
- LGBTQ+-friendly hotels and establishments are common; many display rainbow flags or Pride symbols
- The annual Vienna Pride (Rainbow Parade) in June is a major celebration
- Smaller towns and rural areas are generally tolerant but more conservative; use discretion
- LGBTQ+ travelers should feel comfortable using appropriate facilities without harassment
- Dating apps are widely used and generally safe in urban areas
- No significant safety concerns specific to LGBTQ+ travelers compared to other Western European countries
- Salzburg and Innsbruck also have active LGBTQ+ communities, though smaller than Vienna's
- Anti-discrimination laws protect LGBTQ+ individuals in employment, housing, and public services
- Trans travelers can use facilities matching their gender identity; legal gender recognition is possible
- Resources: HOSI Wien (LGBTQ+ organization), Rosa Lila Villa (community center), and Türkis Rosa Lila (LGBTQ+ counseling)
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is essential for visiting Austria, particularly for non-EU citizens who will face full healthcare costs without it. Even with Austria's excellent medical system, treatment can be extremely expensive, especially emergency procedures, hospital stays, or mountain rescue operations. Ski accidents, hiking injuries, and emergency evacuations can cost tens of thousands of euros. Insurance provides financial protection and peace of mind.
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