Ultimate Travel Guide Austria
Explore the enchanting beauty of Austria with the ultimate travel guide to Austria—your gateway to a memorable Alpine adventure!
Austria, spanning 83,871 km² with a population of 8.956 million, is a predominantly mountainous, landlocked country in south-central Europe. Renowned for its unique culture, characterised by enjoying life, strong coffee, sports, and healthy lifestyles, Austria stands out among European nations.
Austria’s authenticity adds allure for those seeking a retreat from crowds. The country is a dream, with sunny alpine meadows, massive mountains, and sparkling turquoise lakes. Numerous reasons beckon visitors to Austria, including the omnipresent music, stunning architecture, diverse churches, and expansive outdoor spaces.
Discover everything you need for an amazing visit to Austria in this ultimate guide, featuring details on attractions, destinations, and more to ensure an unforgettable experience.
What to Know
Best time to visit
To avoid crowds, the best times to visit Austria are April, early May, September, and October. If you’re eager to experience the true winter wonderland, January, February, and March offer snowy seasons with near-guaranteed snowfall.
Currency and ATMs
Austria’s official currency is the Euro, and ATMs are widespread, especially in major cities like Vienna and Salzburg retail centres. Unlike many other countries, ATMs in Austria generally do not charge on-site withdrawal fees.
Safety Rank
Austria is ranked as the 5th safest of 163 countries, making it an exceptionally safe destination for travellers. The country’s high safety position ensures solo travellers a secure and enjoyable experience.
Hitchhiking
Austria is an excellent country for hitchhiking, offering breathtaking Alps views. While the primary language is German (with some regions also using Slovene, Hungarian, and Croatian), communication isn’t a problem for non-German speakers, as most Austrians have a basic understanding of English.
Visa
EEA, Swiss, and Liechtenstein passport holders enjoy visa-free entry to Austria, with unlimited stay for EU citizens. Nationals from other countries may need a visa to enter the Schengen Area or Austrian territory, so checking the specific requirements before visiting Austria is crucial.
Plugs
Austria utilises Schuko/Type F sockets, featuring the familiar 2-pin system in much of continental Europe, such as Spain, Greece, Germany, Sweden and Portugal.