Useful information before travelling to Austria

Organising a stay in Austria requires knowledge of some basic information for an unforgettable experience: this fascinating Alpine country, amidst centuries-old traditions and breathtaking landscapes, deserves careful preparation for the trip.

For the necessary documents, European citizens can simply use their identity card valid for expatriation, while non-EU travellers need a passport. The current currency is the euro, an advantage for those coming from the eurozone, which avoids exchange fees. The ideal season for visiting varies according to interest: the months of May to September are perfect for excursions and cultural tourism, while the period from December to March is ideal for snow lovers and skiers.

Austria’s transport system boasts modern and efficient trains (ÖBB) that conveniently reach every corner of the country. Remember that a vignette is compulsory on motorways. A hire car remains the best option for discovering hidden villages in the valleys or visiting historic manors. The Austrian gastronomic tradition deserves a separate chapter: from wiener schnitzel to apple strudel, from goulash to the famous sachertorte. The Viennese coffee ritual is a unique cultural experience, accompanied by the excellent local wines from the Wachau valley.

German is the national language, however English is widespread in tourist destinations, especially in the Alpine border areas. Knowing a few German expressions is always welcome. Local traditions include courtesy and respect for schedules: Austrians value politeness and precision. Formedical care, the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) ensures excellent quality care for EU citizens, as Austria has one of the most advanced healthcare systems in Europe: however, consider purchasing travel insurance.

In this section we explore all the details and essential information to perfectly organise your travel experience in Austria.