Welcome to Austria, a land of majestic Alpine landscapes, imperial grandeur, and a rich cultural tapestry waiting to be explored. From exhilarating winter sports to vibrant summer city life and serene shoulder-season explorations, Austria offers unforgettable experiences for every traveler.
Key takeaways for Austria: quick snapshot of costs, timing, and standout experiences.
Currency name
Euro
Currency code
EUR
Currency symbol
€
Phone code
+43
Population
9,200,931
Region
Europe
Capital
Vienna
Coordinates
47.3333, 13.3333This is peak season for skiing and snowboarding in the Alps, with resorts bustling and prices at their highest. Cities also come alive with festive Christmas markets and New Year celebrations. Expect cold temperatures, abundant snow, and significant crowds, especially during school holidays. Book accommodations and flights well in advance to secure the best rates.
Accommodation
Shared room, per person per night in a major city
High season
€30+ • per night
Dining out
Street food, Kebab, or simple fast-food
High season
€8+ • per meal
Transport
One-way fare in a major city like Vienna
High season
€2.4+ • per ride
Things to do
Entry to a major museum or attraction (e.g., Schönbrunn Palace)
High season
€18+ • per person
Accommodation
Shared room, per person per night in a major city
Hostel dorm bed
Shared room, per person per night in a major city
Mid-range hotel room
Double room, per night in a 3-4 star hotel
Budget guesthouse/apartment
Private room or small apartment, per night
Luxury hotel room
Premium double room, per night in a 5-star hotel
Dining out
Street food, Kebab, or simple fast-food
Budget meal
Street food, Kebab, or simple fast-food
Mid-range restaurant meal
Main course with a drink in a casual restaurant
Coffee and pastry
In a traditional Austrian coffee house
Local beer or wine
0.5L beer or glass of house wine in a bar/restaurant
Transport
One-way fare in a major city like Vienna
Single public transport ticket
One-way fare in a major city like Vienna
24-hour public transport pass
Unlimited rides on city transport in Vienna
Intercity train ticket
Standard class, one-way from Vienna to Salzburg (pre-booked)
Taxi fare (short ride)
Approx. 5km ride in a major city
Things to do
Entry to a major museum or attraction (e.g., Schönbrunn Palace)
Museum entrance fee
Entry to a major museum or attraction (e.g., Schönbrunn Palace)
Scenic Cable Car Ride
Round trip ticket to a mountain viewpoint in the Alps
Classical music concert ticket
Mid-range seat for an evening performance
Entry to a thermal spa
Full-day admission to a well-known thermal bath
Guided city walking tour
Per person for a 2-3 hour historical or themed tour
Prices are indicative and may change based on availability, demand, and inclusions.
Welcome to Austria, a land of majestic Alpine landscapes, imperial grandeur, and a rich cultural tapestry waiting to be explored. From exhilarating winter sports to vibrant summer city life and serene shoulder-season explorations, Austria offers unforgettable experiences for every traveler.
Budgeting for your Austrian adventure means considering seasonal variations, as prices generally fluctuate with the country's distinct high and shoulder seasons. Accommodation, especially in popular winter ski resorts or major cities like Vienna and Salzburg during summer, tends to be at its peak. During the quieter spring and autumn shoulder months, travelers can often find more favorable rates on hotels and guesthouses.
Dining experiences range from affordable traditional taverns and bustling coffee houses to upscale restaurants. While everyday expenses like groceries are comparable to many Western European nations, activities such as ski passes, concert tickets, or museum entries are significant considerations. Efficient public transport in cities and well-connected intercity trains offer reasonable travel costs, though car rental adds flexibility for exploring scenic routes.
Overall, a mid-range budget allows for comfortable travel, balancing local eateries with occasional fine dining, and taking advantage of both paid attractions and abundant free natural beauty. Travelers seeking to economize might consider self-catering in apartments or utilizing more budget-friendly accommodation and dining options, particularly during the shoulder seasons.
Austria's allure is deeply tied to its pronounced seasons, each offering a unique travel experience. The high seasons, spanning December to March for thrilling winter sports and July to August for vibrant summer city and nature activities, bring the most crowds and typically higher prices. During these months, ski resorts buzz with energy, and cities host numerous festivals and outdoor events, perfect for those seeking lively atmospheres.
For a more tranquil and often more budget-friendly visit, consider the shoulder seasons of spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November). These months feature milder weather, fewer tourists, and are ideal for cultural explorations, scenic hikes through blossoming landscapes or golden vineyards, and enjoying cities at a more relaxed pace. Events like Easter markets or harvest festivals add local charm without the peak season bustle.
Immerse yourself in Vienna's opulent past by visiting the Hofburg Palace, Schönbrunn Palace, and Belvedere. While entrance fees can add up, many museums offer free days or reduced entry with city passes. Afterwards, experience the timeless tradition of a Viennese coffee house, a UNESCO intangible cultural heritage. While some can be pricey, many offer a classic coffee and cake experience at a moderate cost, perfect for soaking in the local atmosphere.
Austria's breathtaking Alps are a hiker's paradise, especially during the spring, summer, and autumn shoulder seasons. Trails range from gentle strolls through picturesque valleys to challenging summit climbs. Access to hiking trails is generally free, and packing your own snacks and water can significantly cut costs. Consider staying in a mountain hut for a more rustic, budget-friendly overnight experience compared to resort hotels.
Beyond the tourist traps, seek out a traditional 'Beisl' (a cozy Austrian tavern) for an authentic and often more affordable culinary experience. Here you can enjoy hearty dishes like Wiener Schnitzel, Goulash, or Käsespätzle alongside local beers or wines. Prices are typically moderate, offering excellent value for a true taste of local flavor without breaking the bank.
Take a scenic train ride to Salzburg, the birthplace of Mozart and a UNESCO World Heritage site, best enjoyed during the milder spring and autumn months or vibrant summer. Explore the charming Altstadt (Old Town), visit Hohensalzburg Fortress, and stroll through Mirabell Gardens. Many attractions can be enjoyed from the outside for free, and exploring on foot is the best way to soak in the city's unique baroque atmosphere. Regional train tickets can be more economical than express services.
For significant savings, especially in cities like Vienna, Salzburg, or Innsbruck, invest in a multi-day city pass or regional transport card. These often include unlimited travel on trams, buses, and subways, plus discounts on attractions. For longer trips between cities, booking train tickets (ÖBB) in advance usually yields better rates.
Tipping (Trinkgeld) is customary but generally more modest than in some countries. For good service in restaurants, bars, and taxis, round up the bill or add 5-10%. It's common to state the total amount you wish to pay, including the tip, when paying. For example, if the bill is €18.50, you might say '20 Euros, bitte'.
While April and November mark Austria's low season, offering the best potential for budget travel, some attractions may have reduced hours. Regardless of when you visit, Austria's diverse climate ensures a captivating journey, whether you're chasing powder on the slopes, exploring imperial palaces, or hiking through breathtaking Alpine valleys.
Delve into Austria's rich cultural heritage, a tapestry woven with classical music, imperial history, and vibrant artistic traditions. From the grand opera houses and concert halls of Vienna, which echo with the legacies of Mozart and Strauss, to world-class art museums like the Belvedere, Austria offers an immersive experience for enthusiasts of fine arts and history. Exploring magnificent palaces such as Schönbrunn reveals centuries of imperial grandeur.
A quintessential Austrian experience is embracing its renowned coffee house culture, recognized by UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage. These elegant institutions serve as social hubs where locals and visitors alike can linger over a Melange, read newspapers, and savor delectable pastries like Sachertorte or Apfelstrudel. It's a tradition that invites slow, thoughtful engagement with Austrian daily life.
Austrian cuisine, hearty and comforting, perfectly complements its cultural richness. Signature dishes such as Wiener Schnitzel, Goulash, and Tafelspitz are staples, often accompanied by local wines from Wachau or Styria, or crisp Austrian beers. Exploring local markets offers a taste of regional specialties and fresh produce, providing another authentic layer to your Austrian adventure, blending culinary delights with a profound sense of place.
Austria boasts an excellent public transport system, particularly in cities like Vienna. Purchasing a multi-day pass is a budget-friendly way to navigate. For affordable eats, visit local markets such as Vienna's Naschmarkt or farmers' markets in smaller towns. You can find fresh produce, street food, and ingredients for picnic lunches, significantly cheaper than dining out for every meal.
To experience local cuisine without breaking the bank, look for 'Mittagsmenü' (lunch specials) offered by many restaurants on weekdays. These typically include a starter and a main course at a significantly reduced price compared to dinner menus, providing excellent value and a taste of authentic Austrian cooking.
In Austria, especially outside of Vienna, 'Grüß Gott' is the traditional greeting, not 'Guten Tag'. When hiking in the Alps, it's polite to greet fellow hikers with a friendly 'Servus' or 'Grüß Gott' and give way to uphill traffic. Always stay on marked trails to protect nature and ensure your safety.
While credit cards are widely accepted in larger cities and establishments, many smaller cafes, bakeries, market stalls, and remote mountain huts (Alms) still prefer or only accept cash. Always have some Euros on hand, especially when venturing into rural areas or visiting local markets.
