The Ultimate Austria Travel Guide 2023

Austria Travel Guide: When to Visit

There is no definitive answer to this question, depending on what you are hoping to see and do while in Austria, the best time to visit can vary. For example, if you are interested in skiing or other winter sports, then the best time to visit would be during the winter months. However, if you are more interested in exploring the city sights and attractions, then the best time to visit would be during the spring or summer months. However, in the summer months you will experience larger crowds. Ultimately, it depends on your personal preferences and what you hope to get out of your trip.

Austria Travel Guide: How to Get There

There are a few ways to reach Austria, depending on your location and budget. If you’re coming from Europe, you can take a train, or bus, or fly to one of Austria’s major airports. If you’re coming from further away, you’ll likely need to fly into Vienna. Once you’re in the country, you can use public transportation to get around or rent a car if you’re planning on doing some exploring. Here is a little more detail:

1. By Air: Flying is the most common and quickest way to reach Austria. The country has several international airports, with the largest being Vienna International Airport (VIE). Other significant airports include Salzburg Airport (SZG), Innsbruck Airport (INN), Graz Airport (GRZ), Klagenfurt Airport (KLU), and Linz Airport (LNZ).

2. By Train: Austria has an extensive rail network that connects it with neighboring countries, making it easy to travel by train. The national railway company, ÖBB (Austrian Federal Railways), operates domestic and international services. High-speed Railjet trains offer fast connections between major cities, while the Nightjet trains provide overnight services. Travelers can also use international services like EuroCity and InterCity Express (ICE) trains.

3. By Road: Austria is well-connected by a network of highways (Autobahnen) and expressways (Schnellstraßen) that link it to neighboring countries. Driving allows you to explore the picturesque countryside at your own pace. Many international bus companies operate services to Austria, such as FlixBus and Eurolines, providing an affordable alternative to trains and planes.

4. By Water: Though not as popular as other transportation options, you can also reach Austria by water. Several river cruise companies offer cruises along the Danube River, which passes through Austria. These cruises typically start from cities like Budapest or Passau and include stops in Vienna, Linz, and other Austrian towns along the river. This mode of transport allows travelers to enjoy the scenic beauty of the Danube Valley at a leisurely pace.A few popular river cruise companies operating in Austria include:Viking River Cruises: https://www.vikingrivercruises.com/ Avalon Waterways: https://www.avalonwaterways.com/ AmaWaterways: https://www.amawaterways.com/

Austria Travel Guide: Getting Around

There are a few different ways to get around Austria. The most common way is by car. There are also buses and trains that run between cities. If you are traveling from Vienna to another city, the best way to get there is by train. The trains in Austria are very reliable and the scenery is beautiful. You can also take a bus, but the buses can be very crowded.

Austria Travel Guide: Popular Destinations

Vienna

Vienna is the capital of Austria and one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe. The city is renowned for its museums, art galleries, opera houses, and other historical landmarks. Visitors can also enjoy the city’s many parks, gardens, and cafes.

Today, Vienna is a vibrant, cosmopolitan city with a thriving arts and culture scene. The city is also home to a number of international organizations, such as the United Nations and the International Atomic Energy Agency.

Salzburg

Salzburg was founded in the 5th century by the Bavarii tribe. In the 9th century, the town was conquered by the Franks and became part of the Holy Roman Empire. In the late Middle Ages, Salzburg was an important center of trade and culture. The city was ruled by the Prince-Archbishops of Salzburg, a position that was held by some of the most powerful figures in European history.

In the 18th century, Salzburg was annexed by Austria and became one of the country’s most important cities. The city was the center of the German Enlightenment and home to many notable thinkers and artists. Salzburg was also the site of the first public opera performance in history.

Today, Salzburg is a popular tourist destination. The city’s medieval center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is filled with historical landmarks. Salzburg is also home to a number of museums, art galleries, and theaters. There are plenty of things to see and do in Salzburg, making it the perfect place to visit for travelers of all interests.

Innsbruck

Innsbruck is the capital city of the Austrian state of Tyrol. It is located in the Inn valley at the junction of the Wipptal (Inn valley) and the Isel valley. Innsbruck is an internationally renowned winter sports center and hosted the 1964 and 1976 Winter Olympics as well as the 1984 and 1988 Winter Paralympics. The city also hosted the first Winter Youth Olympics in 2012.

Innsbruck’s history dates back to the early Middle Ages. The first mention of the city in historical records comes from the 11th century when it was known as “Villa Ipsibruck”. In 1248, the city was granted the status of a town by Duke Friedrich II. In the 14th and 15th centuries, Innsbruck became a center of trade and commerce. The city was also a favored residence of the Habsburg imperial family.

Today, Innsbruck is a vibrant, cosmopolitan city with a wide range of things to see and do. The city center is home to a number of historic buildings and monuments, while the surrounding mountains offer endless opportunities for outdoor activities. In winter, the city is a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding, while in summer it is a great base for hiking and mountain biking.

Salzkammergut

Salzkammergut is a stunning region in Austria that is known for its dramatic scenery and its many lakes. The region has a long history, dating back to the Middle Ages when it was an important center for the mining of salt. Today, Salzkammergut is a popular tourist destination, with many activities and attractions to enjoy.

Some of the top things to do in Salzkammergut include hiking in the stunning scenery, taking a dip in one of the many lakes, and exploring the region’s history in its many museums. There are also plenty of things to see in Salzkammergut, from the picturesque lakes to the towering mountains.

Zell am See

Zell am See is a beautiful town in Austria that is known for its stunning scenery and its rich history. The town is situated on the banks of Lake Zell and is surrounded by the Hohe Tauern mountains. There are many things to do in Zell am See, such as hiking, biking, and skiing. There are also many things to see in Zell am See, such as the Zeller See, the Zell am See Cathedral and the Hohe Tauern National Park.

Austria Travel Tips

If you’re planning a trip to Austria, there are a few things you should keep in mind to make the most of your experience.

For starters, Austria is a relatively expensive country, so be prepared to budget accordingly.

Additionally, while Austria is generally a safe country to travel in, it’s always a good idea to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against pickpockets and other petty crimes.

When it comes to culture, Austria is known for its rich history and beautiful architecture. Be sure to visit some of the country’s most famous landmarks, such as the Hofburg Palace and the Vienna State Opera House.

Try the local cuisine! Austrian cuisine is diverse and delicious, with many regional specialties worth trying. Don’t miss the chance to taste classic dishes like Wiener Schnitzel, Apfelstrudel, Sachertorte, and Kaiserschmarrn. For a unique experience, visit a traditional Heuriger (wine tavern) in Vienna or enjoy a meal at a local Buschenschank in Styria.

Finally, remember to pack appropriately for the season. Austria can get quite cold in the winter, so if you’re visiting during that time of year, make sure to pack plenty of warm clothes.

Use public transportation:
Austria has a well-developed and efficient public transportation system, including buses, trams, and trains. Make the most of it to save money and explore the country conveniently. Consider purchasing an ÖBB Vorteilscard for discounted train fares or a city-specific travel card (e.g., Vienna City Card) for unlimited travel on local public transportation and additional discounts on attractions.

Explore beyond major cities: While Vienna, Salzburg, and Innsbruck are popular destinations, don’t forget to visit smaller towns and rural areas. Austria is known for its picturesque landscapes, charming villages, and scenic alpine lakes. Some lesser-known gems worth exploring include Hallstatt, Zell am See, Wachau Valley, and Bregenz.

Austria Travel Guide: Typical Costs

Accommodation

The cost of accommodation in Austria can vary depending on the type of accommodation you are looking for. If you are looking for a basic hotel room, you can expect to pay around €50 per night. If you are looking for a more luxurious hotel room, you can expect to pay around €200 per night. If you are looking for an apartment, you can expect to pay around €800 per month.

Food

Food costs can vary greatly depending on your dining preferences and the establishments you choose to visit. Generally, Austrian food is moderately priced, especially when compared to other Western European countries. Inexpensive Eat and Drinks and cafes offer meals for around €10-15, while mid-range establishments may charge €20-40 per person for a three-course meal. High-end Eat and Drinks can be significantly more expensive, with meals starting at €50 and upwards. For budget-conscious travelers, options like street food, bakeries, and supermarkets provide affordable alternatives to Eat and Drink dining. Don’t forget to explore local markets, where you can find fresh produce and regional specialties at reasonable prices. Overall, Austria offers a range of dining experiences to suit various budgets, allowing travelers to enjoy its diverse and delicious cuisine without breaking the bank.

Transportation

Transportation costs in Austria can also vary depending on the mode of transport, distance, and the type of ticket or pass you choose. Public transportation within cities is quite affordable, with single tickets ranging from €2 to €3, and day passes costing between €5 and €8. Multi-day or weekly passes offer even better value for those planning to stay longer and use public transit extensively.

For intercity travel, trains are a popular and convenient option. Prices for train tickets can range from €10 for short distances on regional trains to €50 or more for longer journeys on high-speed Railjet trains. Booking in advance and taking advantage of discounts with the ÖBB Vorteilscard can significantly reduce these costs.

Long-distance buses, such as those operated by FlixBus, are often more budget-friendly than trains, with fares starting as low as €5 for short trips and €20-30 for longer routes. However, travel times may be longer compared to train journeys.

Renting a car provides flexibility and convenience, especially for exploring rural areas, but costs can add up. Daily car rental rates start at around €30 for a compact car, excluding fuel and potential toll fees on highways. Keep in mind that parking fees in cities can also be quite high.