Austria Holidays

How to reach Austria

Flight time: Flights to Vienna from London and other major UK airports take from just over 2 hours. Flights to Salzburg and Innsbruck take a similar length of time. Transfer time: From Vienna International Airport, the City Airport Train (CAT) reaches Wien Mitte in 16 minutes. From Salzburg Airport, the No. 2 or No. 10 bus gets you to the city centre in 15 to 25 minutes. Innsbruck Airport is a 20-minute ride on bus route F to the station. Price: The CAT costs €12 one-way. Salzburg's bus is €2.70. Innsbruck buses typically cost around €3.

Best time to visit Austria

Choosing the ideal time for holidays to Austria depends on your preferences for weather and activities. Austria’s diverse climate means each season offers something unique.

• April to June is an excellent time to visit, with mild weather and blooming landscapes. Average temperatures range from 10 to 20°C, with occasional showers.

• July and August are the peak of summer, perfect for hiking and enjoying outdoor festivals. Temperatures average around 25°C, and there's plenty of sunshine.

• September to November brings cooler weather, ideal for exploring cities and enjoying the autumn foliage. Temperatures drop from 20 to 5°C in some places, with some rain.

• December to March is ski season in the Alps and a memorable time to visit Austria's cities: Vienna and Salzburg's Christmas markets are particular highlights. Expect temperatures from 5° to -5°C, with some snowfall, especially in the mountains.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: German is the official language. English is widely understood in tourist areas.

• ** Local habits and customs: ** Austrians value punctuality and formality. When entering shops or restaurants, a polite greeting is expected. Tipping is customary, around 5–10 percent.

• Health and safety: Austria is very safe, but the usual precautions should be taken. Emergency numbers: Police 133, Ambulance 144, Fire 122.

• Currency: Austria uses the Euro (€). ATMs are widespread, and both debit and credit cards are accepted in most places.

• Getting around: Public transport is efficient, with buses, trams and trains running in and between most cities and towns. Ticket prices start around €2, while day passes offer good value travel and often free access to museums and attractions.

• Electricity and plug types: The standard supply is 230V with two round-pin plugs (type C and F), so an adapter is necessary for British devices.

• Time zone: Austria is on Central European Time (CET), 1 hour ahead of GMT, and observes Daylight Saving Time.

• Required travel documentation: UK travellers need a valid passport to enter Austria. No visa is required for stays of up to 90 days.

Where to stay during your holidays to Austria

Choosing the right place to stay in Austria can significantly enhance your holiday experience. Here’s a guide to some of the best destinations in Austria, each offering unique attractions and amenities.

Vienna

Vienna, Austria’s capital, is a blend of imperial history and modern culture. It’s perfect for those who enjoy art, music, and vibrant city life.

• Best for: History enthusiasts and culture lovers.

• Highlights: Schönbrunn Palace, Hofburg, and the vibrant Naschmarkt.

Discover our holiday packages to Vienna.

Salzburg

Salzburg, the birthplace of Mozart, offers a picturesque setting with its baroque architecture and alpine backdrop. It’s ideal for music lovers and history buffs.

• Best for: Music enthusiasts and history lovers.

• Highlights: Hohensalzburg Fortress, Mirabell Palace, and Mozart’s Birthplace.

Check out our holidays to Salzburg.

Hallstatt

Hallstatt, known for its stunning lakeside views, is one of the most photographed villages in Austria. It’s perfect for those seeking tranquillity and natural beauty.

• Best for: Nature lovers and photographers.

• Highlights: Hallstatt Lake, Salt Mine, and Hallstatt Museum.

Explore our holiday packages to Hallstatt.

Austrian Alps

The Austrian Alps are renowned for their breathtaking landscapes and outdoor activities. Whether you’re visiting in winter for skiing or in summer for hiking, the Alps offer something for everyone.

• Best for: Outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers.

• Highlights: Skiing in Kitzbühel, hiking in the Tyrol region, and exploring alpine villages.

Discover our holidays to the Austrian Alps.

Innsbruck

Innsbruck, the capital of Tyrol, combines urban culture with alpine adventure. It’s a great destination for both summer and winter activities.

• Best for: Sport lovers and cultural explorers.

• Highlights: Golden Roof, Nordkette Cable Car, and the Imperial Palace.

Find your holiday packages to Innsbruck.

Zell am See

Zell am See is a picturesque town set by a lake, offering year-round activities. It’s perfect for those who enjoy both water and mountain sports.

• Best for: Families and outdoor enthusiasts.

• Highlights: Lake Zell, Schmittenhöhe Mountain, and Kaprun’s Tauern Spa.

Book your holidays to Zell am See.

Mayrhofen

Mayrhofen is a lively resort town in the Zillertal Valley, known for its skiing and snowboarding in winter and hiking and biking in summer.

• Best for: Adventure seekers and young travellers.

• Highlights: Penkenbahn Cable Car, Harakiri Ski Run, and the Alpine Dairy Show Farm.

Check out our cheap holidays to Mayrhofen.

Graz

Graz, Austria’s second-largest city, offers a mix of Renaissance and modern architecture. It’s ideal for a cultural city break.

• Best for: Art lovers and city explorers.

• Highlights: Schlossberg, Kunsthaus Graz, and the Old Town.

Discover our holidays to Graz.

Ischgl

Ischgl is a top destination for skiing and snowboarding, known for its extensive ski area and vibrant après-ski scene.

• Best for: Skiers and nightlife enthusiasts.

• Highlights: Silvretta Arena, Idalp, and the Top of the Mountain Concert.

Explore our holiday packages to Ischgl.

Saalbach

Saalbach is part of the Skicircus Saalbach Hinterglemm Leogang Fieberbrunn, offering extensive skiing in winter and mountain biking in summer.

• Best for: Sports enthusiasts and active families.

• Highlights: Skicircus Saalbach, Reiterkogel, and the Saalbach Hinterglemm Bike Park.

Book your holidays to Saalbach.

Söll

Söll, located in the Tyrol region, is known for its charming village atmosphere and excellent ski facilities. It’s perfect for a relaxing yet active holiday.

• Best for: Families and beginner skiers.

• Highlights: SkiWelt Wilder Kaiser, Hexenwasser, and the panoramic gondola.

Find your holiday packages to Söll.

Choosing the right area to stay in Austria depends on your preferences and what you want to experience during your holiday. Each area offers unique attractions and amenities, ensuring your Austria holiday is memorable and enjoyable.

Best things to do in Austria

Austria is a land of majestic mountains, charming cities and rich history. Whether you're drawn to its cultural gems or outdoor adventures, Austria holidays offer all kinds of experiences.

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Schönbrunn Palace Gardens, Vienna: The Schönbrunn Palace Gardens provide stunning views over the city, especially from the Gloriette, a hilltop colonnade.

• Kitzsteinhorn: Near Zell am See, take the cable car up Kitzsteinhorn for breathtaking alpine vistas at over 3,000m.

• Grossglockner High Alpine Road: This scenic drive offers unparalleled views of Austria’s highest mountain, Grossglockner, and the Pasterze Glacier.

• Hohensalzburg Fortress, Salzburg: Perched on Festungsberg hill, this massive fortress offers stunning views over the city. You can reach it on Austria’s oldest funicular or on foot.

The best districts

• Innere Stadt, Vienna: The heart of Vienna, this district is home to major sights like St. Stephen's Cathedral, the Hofburg Palace and the Spanish Riding School.

• Altstadt (Old Town), Salzburg: Wander through the city's historic centre, now a UNESCO World Heritage site, with narrow medieval streets, squares filled with impressive architecture and Mozart’s birthplace.

• Graz City Centre: Another UNESCO World Heritage site, Graz’s centre is filled with Renaissance and Baroque architecture, charming squares, and vibrant street cafés.

Parks and gardens

• Stadtpark, Vienna: Famous for its statues, including the golden monument of Johann Strauss, and its beautifully landscaped gardens.

• Mirabell Gardens, Salzburg: Featured in "The Sound of Music", these gardens offer beautiful flowerbeds, fountains, sculptures and city views.

• Schönbrunn Palace Gardens, Vienna: These expansive gardens are perfect for a stroll. They feature elaborate landscaping, a zoo and the Gloriette hill-top colonnade with its café.

Historical monuments

• Hofburg Palace, Vienna: This sprawling, former imperial palace of the Habsburg dynasty now houses several museums and the famous Spanish Riding School.

• Schönbrunn Palace, Vienna: The summer residence of the Habsburg monarchs for 300 years, this 1441-room Baroque palace is an architectural marvel. Tours of the opulent rooms and vast gardens are available.

• Hohensalzburg Fortress, Salzburg: This hilltop medieval castle is one of the largest in Europe and Salzburg’s key landmark, providing panoramic views over the city.

• Melk Abbey: A stunning Benedictine abbey overlooking the Danube River near the Wachau Valley, known for its Baroque architecture and impressive library.

Day trips in the area

• The Wachau Valley: A picturesque region along the Danube River, perfect for wine tasting and visiting charming towns like Dürnstein and Krems.

• Hallstatt: A UNESCO World Heritage site, this lakeside village is famous for its stunning scenery and prehistoric salt mines. Arriving by train and then ferry is the most atmospheric way to take in the views.

• Innsbruck: Nestled in the Alps, Innsbruck offers a blend of historical sights and outdoor activities, including the iconic Golden Roof and the Bergisel Ski Jump.

Activities for families in Austria

Austria is a fantastic destination for families, offering a range of activities for all ages and interests.

• Interactive museums: Salzburg's Museum of Natural History and Technology (Haus der Natur) is very popular with kids and adults of all ages. It has interactive exhibits on space, the human body and dinosaurs. Go mid-week to avoid the crowds.

• Aquariums and zoos: Vienna’s Tiergarten Schönbrunn is the world's oldest zoo, home to diverse animals and an aquarium featuring a ‘walk-through’ flooded rainforest.

• Historical monuments and sites: Children will love castles like the fairytale Hohensalzburg Fortress in Salzburg, which has medieval charm and panoramic views.

• Theme parks and adventure: The historic Prater amusement park in Vienna offers various rides and attractions, including the iconic giant Ferris wheel.

Free things to do in Austria

Austria offers plenty of activities that won’t cost you a penny, perfect for those on a budget.

• Free events: Austria hosts numerous free cultural events and open-air concerts throughout the year, such as public performances during the Vienna and Salzburg Festivals.

• Free museums: Many museums in Austria offer free entry on certain days or times. Vienna Museum Karlsplatz in Vienna has free entry on the first Sunday of each month and to the permanent exhibition on any day.

• Free guided tours: Vienna offers free walking tours that explore different aspects of the city’s history and architecture, such as those around the Innere Stadt.

Wellness in Austria

• Spas and thermal baths: The Alpentherme Gastein in Bad Hofgastein offers thermal waters, saunas and wellness treatments, all set against a stunning alpine backdrop.

• Yoga and meditation: Many resorts and wellness centres in Austria, such as those in the Tyrolean Alps, offer yoga and meditation classes in tranquil, natural settings.

Nature and outdoor activities

• Hiking: Austria boasts well-marked hiking trails in numerous national parks like Hohe Tauern and Gesäuse, plus several easy walks from the city to places like Salzburg.

• Skiing and snowboarding: The Austrian Alps are renowned for their ski resorts, such as St. Anton and Kitzbühel, offering slopes for all skill levels.

• Watersports: Austria’s lakes, such as Wolfgangsee and Wörthersee, are perfect for sailing, windsurfing and stand-up paddleboarding.

• Cycling: With its extensive network of bike paths, including the Danube Cycle Path, Austria is ideal for enjoying on two wheels.

Local dishes in Austria

One of the great delights of holidays to Austria is delving into its mix of hearty traditional dishes, delectable desserts and unique local drinks. Particularly renowned for its sweet treats, Vienna is often hailed as the pastry capital of the world.

Some typical dishes

• Wienerschnitzel: A breaded and fried veal cutlet, usually served with a slice of lemon, potatoes and lingonberry jam, is a must-try for any visitor.

• Tafelspitz: Boiled beef, served with horseradish sauce and minced apples, is often accompanied by potatoes or creamed spinach.

• Kasnocken: Small dumplings served with melted cheese and crispy onions, often considered comfort food in the Alpine regions.

Meat dishes

• Schweinsbraten: Roast pork served with sauerkraut and dumplings, a Sunday lunch favourite in many Austrian households.

• Backhendl: Breaded and fried chicken, typically served with potato salad and a wedge of lemon.

• Blutwurst: Blood sausage, often served with sauerkraut and potatoes, and a must-try for those looking to experience traditional cuisine.

Fish and seafood dishes

• Forelle Müllerin: Trout prepared in a simple yet delicious way: coated in flour, pan-fried in butter, and served with parsley potatoes.

• Steckerlfisch: Grilled fish on a stick, popular at outdoor festivals and markets, especially in the Salzkammergut region.

Street food

• Käsekrainer: A type of cheese-filled sausage typically served with a bread roll and mustard at sausage stands (Würstelstände).

• Bosna: A spicy sausage sandwich with onions, mustard and curry powder, originally from Salzburg, is now a common snack nationwide.

Sweets and desserts

• Apfelstrudel: A beloved treat, this famous pastry is filled with apples, cinnamon, sugar and raisins.

• Kaiserschmarrn: For those who enjoy lighter fare, this airy and crisp shredded pancake is sprinkled with powdered sugar and served with fruit preserves.

• Sachertorte: A dense chocolate cake with a layer of apricot jam, which epitomises Viennese confectionery craftsmanship.

Local drinks

• Wine: Austria is known for its excellent wines, particularly the white Grüner Veltliner and red Blaufränkisch.

• Beer: Austrian beers are superb, with Märzen, a type of pale lager, being the most common. Local breweries produce a wide variety of beers to sample.

• Almdudler: A popular herbal soft drink that’s a perfect non-alcoholic option, often described as the "national drink" of Austria.

• Schnapps: Various fruit brandies, such as apricot (Marillen) and pear (Birnen), are widely enjoyed, especially after meals.

Sports and activities during your holidays in Austria

Austria offers a wide range of sports and activities that cater to all interests and fitness levels. Whether you're a thrill-seeker or prefer more leisurely pursuits, there's something for everyone.

Skiing and snowboarding

Austria is world-renowned for its skiing and snowboarding facilities, with the Austrian Alps being a top destination for winter sports enthusiasts.

• Top Resorts: Kitzbühel, St. Anton, Ischgl, and Saalbach-Hinterglemm.

• Best For: Skiers and snowboarders of all levels.

• Highlights: Extensive slopes, modern lift systems, and vibrant après-ski scenes.

Hiking and mountain biking

During the summer months, Austria's alpine regions transform into a paradise for hikers and mountain bikers.

• Top Locations: The Tyrol region, Zell am See, and the Hohe Tauern National Park.

• Best For: Nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.

• Highlights: Well-marked trails, scenic routes, and stunning alpine views.

Water sports

Austria’s lakes offer excellent opportunities for various water sports, including sailing, windsurfing, and kayaking.

• Top Locations: Lake Wolfgang, Lake Neusiedl, and Lake Zell.

• Best For: Water sports enthusiasts and families.

• Highlights: Clear waters, picturesque settings, and a variety of rental facilities.

Cycling

Austria is a cyclist’s dream, with numerous routes that cater to both casual riders and serious cyclists.

• Top Routes: The Danube Cycle Path, Lake Constance Cycle Path, and the Alpe-Adria Trail.

• Best For: Cyclists of all levels.

• Highlights: Scenic routes, well-maintained paths, and bike-friendly accommodations.

Climbing and Via Ferrata

For those who enjoy climbing, Austria offers some of the best via ferrata routes in Europe, combining hiking and climbing with spectacular views.

• Top Locations: The Dachstein Mountains, the Wilder Kaiser, and the Rätikon range.

• Best For: Adventurous climbers and thrill-seekers.

• Highlights: Secure routes, breathtaking landscapes, and challenging climbs.

Golf

Austria’s golf courses are set against stunning backdrops, providing a unique experience for golfers.

• Top Courses: Adamstal Golf Club, Golf Club Gut Altentann, and Zell am See-Kaprun Golf Club.

• Best For: Golf enthusiasts.

• Highlights: Beautifully maintained courses, challenging holes, and scenic views.

Paragliding and skydiving

For an adrenaline rush, try paragliding or skydiving in Austria’s breathtaking landscapes.

• Top Locations: Innsbruck, Zell am See, and the Stubai Valley.

• Best For: Adrenaline junkies.

• Highlights: Spectacular aerial views, experienced instructors, and safe conditions.

Cultural and leisure activities

If you prefer cultural activities, Austria offers a rich blend of history, music, and art.

• Top Locations: Vienna for opera and museums, Salzburg for Mozart heritage, and Graz for contemporary art.

• Best For: Culture enthusiasts and leisure travellers.

• Highlights: World-class museums, historic sites, and vibrant arts scenes.

Austria provides a diverse range of sports and activities, ensuring that every traveller can find something to enjoy. Make the most of your holiday by exploring the various opportunities for adventure and relaxation that this beautiful country has to offer.

Events to experience during your holiday to Austria

Austria is a vibrant country with a rich cultural calendar, offering numerous events and festivals throughout the year. Here are some of the top events to experience during your Austria holiday:

Vienna Festival

The Vienna Festival, held from 17 May to 23 June 2024, is a major cultural event featuring theatre, opera, music, dance, and visual arts. The festival showcases both world and Austrian premieres, transforming Vienna into a hub of artistic activity. It’s a fantastic opportunity to experience contemporary performances in various venues across the city.

Salzburg Festival

One of the most prestigious classical music festivals in the world, the Salzburg Festival runs from late July to the end of August. It features opera, drama, and concerts performed by leading artists. Highlights include performances of Mozart’s operas and other classical masterpieces in historic venues throughout Salzburg.

Vienna Pride and Rainbow Parade

Vienna Pride, running from 25 May to 9 June 2024, culminates with the Rainbow Parade on 8 June. This event celebrates the LGBTQ+ community with various activities, including parties, concerts, and cultural events, all centred around the theme of equality and diversity.

Innsbruck Crankworx

For mountain biking enthusiasts, the Crankworx Festival in Innsbruck, taking place from 16 to 18 June 2024, is a must-visit. This event is part of the world’s largest gravity-fuelled mountain biking festival, featuring competitive races, thrilling displays, and plenty of activities for spectators.

Graz Marathon

The Graz Marathon, scheduled for 11 to 14 October 2024, is a major sporting event attracting runners from around the world. The marathon offers various race categories, making it suitable for runners of all levels. The event creates a festive atmosphere in the city, with enthusiastic crowds and entertainment along the route.

Viennale Film Festival

The Viennale, from 17 October to 10 November 2024, is Austria’s most important international film event. It showcases a diverse range of films, including features, documentaries, and experimental works, providing a platform for filmmakers from around the globe. The festival takes place in various cinemas across Vienna, offering a rich cinematic experience.

Advent Markets

Austria is famous for its Christmas markets, with the Vienna Christkindlmarkt and Salzburg’s Christmas Market being particularly noteworthy. Starting from mid-November until Christmas, these markets offer festive goods, delicious food, and a magical atmosphere, making them perfect for holiday shopping and enjoying traditional Austrian holiday treats.

Attending these events will give you a deeper insight into Austria’s rich cultural heritage and vibrant community life. Plan your visit around these dates to make the most of your Austrian holiday.