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Summary
Neighboring Countries
Did you know?
World’s First Zoo – The Tiergarten Schönbrunn in Vienna is the oldest zoo in the world, founded in 1752!
Overview
Months
11. November, 10. October, 05. May, 06. June, 08. August, 02. February, 01. January, 07. July, 03. March, 09. September, 12. December, 04. April
Vacation type
Couple, Family, Nature, Party, Sightseeing, Skiing, Mountains, Hiking
Expenses
<150€, <200€, Over 200€, <100€
Temperature
0-10°C, 10-20°C, 20-25°C
Rainfall
0-50mm, 50-100mm
Safety
Very safe
Continent
Europe
Currency
Euro
Languages
German
Currency Converter
When to visit
The best time to visit Austria depends on your interests:
- Winter (December to February): Ideal for skiing and winter sports, particularly in the Alps. The festive season also brings charming Christmas markets and winter wonderlands to cities like Vienna and Salzburg.
- Spring (April to June): Offers pleasant weather and blooming landscapes, making it perfect for exploring cities, countryside, and gardens. This is also a great time to enjoy outdoor activities and avoid the summer tourist rush.
- Summer (July to August): Warm weather is excellent for hiking, outdoor festivals, and enjoying Austria’s lakes and picturesque towns. However, it’s also the peak tourist season, so expect more crowds and higher prices.
- Autumn (September to November): Provides cooler temperatures and beautiful fall foliage, ideal for sightseeing and experiencing cultural events like wine harvest festivals. It’s also less crowded and more affordable compared to summer.
Each season offers a unique experience, so the best time to visit depends on your preferences and the activities you want to enjoy.
Climate Data
Peak Season (May to September)
Average Sunny Hours per Day: Approximately 8 to 10 hours.
Rain Frequency: Rain is moderate, with occasional thunderstorms.
Rainy Hours per Day: Approximately 1 to 2 hours.
Intensity: Rain tends to be moderate, with occasional heavy downpours.
Duration: Rain events last from 30 minutes to a few hours.
Off-Peak Season (October to April)
Average Sunny Hours per Day: Approximately 4 to 6 hours.
Rain Frequency: Rain is more frequent, especially in the winter months, with snowfall in the mountains.
Rainy Hours per Day: Approximately 2 to 3 hours during off-peak months.
Intensity: Rain tends to be light to moderate, with snow in higher altitudes.
Duration: Rain or snow events can last several hours.
Climate Chart
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Data Source: Global Historical Climatology Network
ClimateCharts.net
Weather, Crowds and Costs
Per one person
Tourist Season: December-February (Winter Skiing) & June-August (Summer Hiking)
Budget Vacation ($60-100/day)
Accommodation: $20-40/night (hostels, budget inns).
Food: $15-25/day (cafes, bakeries).
Activities: $10-20/day (free museums, hiking trails).
Transportation: $10/day (buses, trains).
Other Costs: $5-10/day (souvenirs).
Mid-Range Vacation ($150-250/day)
Accommodation: $60-120/night (mid-range hotels, guesthouses).
Food: $40-60/day (restaurants, traditional meals).
Activities: $20-50/day (ski rentals, guided tours).
Transportation: $20-40/day (train passes, car rentals).
Other Costs: $10-20/day (shopping, extras).
Luxury Vacation ($300+/day)
Accommodation: $200+/night (luxury chalets, resorts).
Food: $70+/day (fine dining, wine tastings).
Activities: $100+/day (private ski lessons, premium tours).
Transportation: $50+/day (luxury cars).
Other Costs: $50+/day (luxury extras).
Off-Peak Season: March-May & September-November
Budget Vacation ($50-80/day)
Accommodation: $15-30/night (hostels).
Food: $10-20/day (local cafes).
Activities: $5-10/day (discounted museums).
Transportation: $5-10/day (public transit).
Other Costs: $5/day (minimal extras).
Mid-Range Vacation ($120-200/day)
Accommodation: $50-100/night (hotels, boutique stays).
Food: $30-50/day (mid-range restaurants).
Activities: $10-30/day (fewer crowds for tours).
Transportation: $15-30/day (car rentals).
Other Costs: $10/day (shopping).
Luxury Vacation ($250+/day)
Accommodation: $150+/night (luxury hotels).
Food: $60+/day (fine dining).
Activities: $50+/day (exclusive tours).
Transportation: $40+/day (premium rentals).
Other Costs: $20+/day (luxury indulgences).
Best Regions to visit
Cities
1. Vienna
- The capital city, Vienna, is famous for its imperial history, grand architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. Key attractions include the Schönbrunn Palace, the Hofburg Palace, St. Stephen’s Cathedral, and the Vienna State Opera. The city is also known for its coffee houses and historic museums.
2. Salzburg
- Known as the birthplace of Mozart, Salzburg is renowned for its baroque architecture and musical heritage. Key sites include the Hohensalzburg Fortress, Mirabell Palace, and the Salzburg Cathedral. The city's Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
3. Innsbruck
- Located in the Alps, Innsbruck is famous for its stunning mountain scenery and winter sports opportunities. Attractions include the Golden Roof (Goldenes Dachl), the Imperial Palace, and the nearby Stubai Glacier. Innsbruck is also known for its vibrant Christmas markets.
4. Graz
- Austria's second-largest city, Graz is known for its well-preserved medieval old town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Key attractions include the Schlossberg, the Graz Cathedral, and the Kunsthaus Graz. The city has a lively cultural scene and is known for its university atmosphere.
5. Linz
- Situated on the banks of the Danube River, Linz is known for its contemporary art scene and cultural festivals. Key sites include the Ars Electronica Center, the Linz Castle, and the Pöstlingberg. The city also offers a pleasant riverside promenade.
6. Klagenfurt
- Located near Lake Wörth, Klagenfurt is known for its charming old town and beautiful lakeside setting. Attractions include the Minimundus (a miniature park with models of famous landmarks), the Lindwurm Fountain, and the Kärnten Museum.
7. St. Pölten
- As the capital of Lower Austria, St. Pölten is known for its modern architecture and historic sites. Key attractions include the St. Pölten Cathedral, the Landesmuseum, and the nearby Wachau wine region.
8. Bregenz
- Located on the shores of Lake Constance, Bregenz is famous for its annual Bregenz Festival, which features performances on a floating stage. The city also offers scenic views from the Pfänder mountain and attractions such as the Kunsthaus Bregenz.
Vienna
Did you know?
Birthplace of Classical Music – Austria gave the world legendary composers like Mozart and Beethoven.
Islands
Austria, being a landlocked country, does not have islands within its own borders.
Bergsee Lake
Things to see
In Cities
1. Vienna's Schönbrunn Palace
- A stunning baroque palace with beautiful gardens, the former summer residence of the Habsburgs.
2. Vienna State Opera
- One of the world's leading opera houses, known for its grand architecture and world-class performances.
3. Salzburg's Hohensalzburg Fortress
- A well-preserved medieval fortress offering panoramic views of Salzburg and the surrounding Alps.
4. Innsbruck’s Golden Roof
- A historic building in the heart of Innsbruck, known for its ornate golden roof and historic significance.
5. Vienna's Belvedere Palace
- A pair of baroque palaces housing an extensive collection of Austrian art, including works by Gustav Klimt.
6. Mozart's Birthplace in Salzburg
- The birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, now a museum dedicated to his life and music.
7. Melk Abbey
- A magnificent Benedictine abbey overlooking the Danube River, known for its impressive baroque architecture and library.
8. Graz's Schlossberg
- A hill in the center of Graz with a historic clock tower and beautiful views of the city.
9. Kunsthistorisches Museum in Vienna
- One of the world’s great art museums, housing an extensive collection of art and artifacts.
10. Vienna's MuseumsQuartier
- A cultural complex featuring several museums, contemporary art spaces, and historic buildings.
In Nature
1. The Austrian Alps
- Renowned for skiing, hiking, and breathtaking views. Notable areas include the Stubai Glacier, Tirol, and the Grossglockner.
2. Hallstatt
- A picturesque village on the shores of Hallstätter See, known for its stunning lakeside setting and historic salt mines.
3. Dachstein Ice Caves
- Located near Hallstatt, these impressive ice caves feature dramatic ice formations and underground landscapes.
4. Grossglockner High Alpine Road
- A scenic mountain road offering panoramic views of Austria’s highest peak, the Grossglockner.
5. Neusiedler See
- A large steppe lake in eastern Austria, known for birdwatching, sailing, and its surrounding vineyards.
6. Zell am See
- A charming resort town by a lake, offering water activities and access to nearby mountains for skiing and hiking.
7. Krimml Waterfalls
- The highest waterfalls in Austria, located in the Hohe Tauern National Park, with stunning natural beauty.
8. Wachau Valley
- A picturesque region along the Danube River, known for its vineyards, historic castles, and charming villages.
9. Lakes of Salzkammergut
- A region known for its stunning lakes, including Wolfgangsee and Traunsee, surrounded by picturesque mountains.
10. National Park Hohe Tauern
- Austria’s largest national park, featuring rugged landscapes, glaciers, and a variety of outdoor activities.
Vienna's Schönbrunn Palace
How to get around
1. Trains
- Austria has an excellent rail network, with trains operated by ÖBB (Austrian Federal Railways) connecting major cities like Vienna, Salzburg, Innsbruck, and Graz. High-speed trains like the Railjet are fast, comfortable, and scenic for intercity travel.
2. Buses
- Buses, including regional and long-distance options, complement the rail network, serving towns and rural areas not reached by trains. Companies like FlixBus operate international and domestic routes.
3. Car Rentals
- Renting a car is great for exploring Austria’s countryside, especially in the Alps or more remote regions. Roads are well-maintained, and driving is on the right side.
4. Public Transport in Cities
- Cities like Vienna, Salzburg, and Innsbruck have extensive public transportation systems, including trams, buses, and metro (in Vienna). These are efficient and easy to navigate.
5. Taxis and Ride-Hailing
- Taxis are readily available in cities and tourist areas. Ride-hailing services like Uber also operate in major cities like Vienna.
6. Cycling
- Austria is bike-friendly, especially in cities and along scenic routes like the Danube Cycle Path. Bike rentals are common in urban areas and near tourist attractions.
For long distances, trains are the most efficient option, while public transport works well in cities. Renting a car is ideal for rural exploration.
Did you know?
The Sound of Music – The famous Sound of Music film was mostly shot in Austria, showcasing its breathtaking landscapes.
What to eat
1. Wiener Schnitzel
- A breaded and fried veal cutlet, traditionally served with lemon, potato salad, or lingonberry sauce.
2. Sachertorte
- A rich chocolate cake with a layer of apricot jam, typically topped with dark chocolate icing and served with whipped cream.
3. Apfelstrudel
- A warm pastry filled with spiced apples, raisins, and cinnamon, often served with vanilla sauce or ice cream.
4. Tafelspitz
- Boiled beef served with root vegetables and traditional accompaniments like horseradish and apple sauce.
5. Kaiserschmarrn
- Fluffy shredded pancakes caramelized with butter and sugar, usually served with fruit compote or applesauce.
Flights
Flight prices are approximate and vary by departure city, airline, and booking time. Check airlines or travel platforms for the latest details.
Main Airport: Vienna International Airport (VIE)
Flight Prices and Seasons:
From Europe
- Average Round-Trip Cost: €50 to €300.
- Cheapest Months: February, March, and November.
- Peak Prices: July to August and December.
From North America
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $700 to $1,200.
- Cheapest Months: January to March and October.
- Peak Prices: Summer and December holidays.
From Asia
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $600 to $1,000.
- Cheapest Months: Early spring and autumn.
- Peak Prices: Summer and New Year.
From Australia
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $1,200 to $1,800.
- Cheapest Months: February and November.
- Peak Prices: Summer and December holidays.
From Africa
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $700 to $1,200.
- Cheapest Months: February and October.
- Peak Prices: Summer and December.
Airport Location
Visa
1. Visa Requirement
- Many travelers can enter Austria visa-free for short stays, including citizens from the U.S., Canada, the U.K., Australia, and most EU countries.
2. Visa-Free Countries
- Citizens of Schengen Area countries and several others (like Japan and South Korea) can enter without a visa for stays of up to 90 days.
3. Schengen Visa
- Travelers from countries that require a visa must apply for a Schengen visa, which allows entry into Austria and other Schengen countries for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
4. Application Process
- Apply for a Schengen visa at the Austrian embassy or consulate in your home country.
5. Processing Time
- Visa processing can take from a few days to a few weeks, so apply well in advance.
6. Duration of Stay
- Most visa-free visitors can stay for up to 90 days; Schengen visa holders can also stay for up to 90 days.
7. Health Requirements
- No specific vaccinations are required for entry, but travel insurance is recommended.
8. COVID-19 Regulations
- Check for any current COVID-19 entry requirements before traveling, as these may change.
Important things to know
1. Payments
- The local currency is the Euro (EUR). Credit cards are widely accepted.
2. Tap Water
- Tap water is generally safe to drink.
3. Electricity
- The voltage is 230V, and plug types C and F (two round pins) are used. An adapter may be needed for devices from other regions.
4. Tipping in Restaurants
- Tipping is appreciated, with 5-10% being standard for good service in restaurants.
5. SIM Cards
- Local SIM cards can be obtained from providers like A1, Drei, and Telekom Austria. They can be purchased at stores, offering various prepaid data plans.
6. Driving Side
- In Austria, people drive on the right side of the road.
Souveniers
1. Mozartkugeln
- Chocolate and marzipan pralines named after Mozart.
2. Handmade Snow Globes
- Invented in Austria and beautifully crafted.
3. Viennese Coffee
- Specialty coffee blends from Vienna’s famous cafés.
Mozartkugeln
Location
You already visited this country? Share your experiences with others! Tell us what’s worth seeing, what to skip, the things you wish you knew before your trip, what surprised you, what do you wish you knew earlier? Leave a review and help others plan smarter. Thanks in advance! :))
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