Austria Travel Guide
Austria is a country of mountain landscapes, elegant cities, and a deep appreciation for culture. From the imperial architecture of Vienna and the baroque streets of Salzburg to the alpine villages of Tyrol, Austria blends history and art with outdoor adventure.
This travel guide introduces you to the best that Austria has to offer, including its diverse regions, transportation options, and seasonal highlights. Read on for what to expect, how to get around, and the top experiences to include on your Austria itinerary.
Choose Your Own Austria Adventure
What to Expect in Austria
Weather
Best Time to Visit
Language
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Getting There
How to Get Around Austria
Austria Travel Guides
Top Experiences in Austria
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Austria FAQ
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For a trip dedicated to Austria’s highlights, plan 7 to 10 days. That allows time for Vienna’s museums, Salzburg’s music heritage, and a few days in the Alps or along scenic lake regions like Hallstatt or Zell am See. With two weeks, you can travel more slowly and include destinations such as Graz, Innsbruck, and the Wachau Valley.
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Most shops in Austria are closed on Sundays, including supermarkets and department stores. However, restaurants, cafés, and tourist attractions in larger cities and resort towns typically remain open. Train stations often have small grocery shops that operate daily. If you’re staying in a smaller town, plan to buy essentials on Saturday to avoid surprises.
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Credit cards are widely accepted in Austria, especially in cities and hotels, but smaller cafés, mountain huts, and rural guesthouses may still prefer cash. It’s smart to carry some euros for small purchases. ATMs (called Bankomats) are common, and most accept foreign cards.
“Austria is an earthly paradise of woods and lakes.“
Franz Grillparzer