Welcome to Austria

The hills are, indeed, alive in Austria, where you can dance between outdoor adventure and urban sophistication all in one day. Channel your indoor Maria (or Captain Von Trapp) as you trek through storybook alpine landscapes, wildflower-strewn meadows and deep canyons.

Not a hiker? That’s OK – there are railways that will zip you through the Alps, affording all the grand views but without as much effort. Back in the city, do as the Hapsburgs did and watch Lipizzaner stallions at the Spanish Riding School, marvel at masterpieces in Vienna’s Museums Quartier or attend any number of classical concerts, from Mozart to Mahler.

In Salzburg, climb up to the mighty Fortress Hohensalzburg and drink in the views of the city. Be sure to partake in Austria’s rich farm-to-table dining experiences, whether you’re grabbing a snack at a farmers’ market or savoring a Michelin-starred meal.

Really want to embrace that Sound of Music feeling? Climb to the Salzkammergut wilderness and sing the praises of the countless lakes and mountains that surround you.

Unique Facts

• Austria shares a border with eight other countries, despite being rather small. Those countries are Germany, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Slovenia, Italy, Switzerland and Liechtenstein.
• The best-preserved Stone Age man in the world, “Oetzi,” was found in the Oetz Valley in Tyrol. He is believed to have died around 5,300 years ago.
• In Vienna, you can walk or drive on the Ringstrasse, one of Europe’s most unusual streets. It’s a circular boulevard carved out of 16th-century fortifications.
• The world’s oldest inn and restaurant still in operation is in Austria. It’s the Haslauer and it opened in 1803. It is also the oldest company in Europe.
• There are 13 mountains in the Austrian Alps that surpass 9,800 feet and 34 that surpass 6,500 feet.

Language

Austria’s official language is German.

When To Go

The best time to go to Austria is during the shoulder seasons of spring and fall. Vienna and Salzburg can be quite crowded during July and August. If you’re visiting for the winter sports, visit from December through late March.

Airports

Vienna International Airport
Salzburg Airport
Innsbruck Airport

Passport Validity

Passport must be valid at time of entry for six months beyond arrival date.

Visa Required By US Citizen?

None for stays of 90 days or less.

Vaccinations

The CDC recommends the following vaccines for most travelers when visiting Ethiopia: Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B and Rabies.

Electrical Outlets

Power plugs and sockets: types C and F. Standard voltage: 230V. Frequency: 50Hz.

Currency

Official local currency: Euro

Getting Around

Road conditions in Austria are generally excellent. Be aware of reduced lanes in construction zones along the Autobahn. During the winter, alpine roads may be more dangerous.

Major cities are linked by a fast, efficient rail system. Within large towns and cities, public transportation options include bus and tram. Renting a car is the best way to explore outlying rural regions and the high Alps.

Driver’s License

An international driving permit is required.

US Embassy Info

U.S. Embassy Vienna
Boltzmanngasse 16
1090 Vienna, Austria
Telephone: +43-(0)1-313-390
Email: embassy@usembassy.at

Local Visitor Info

Look for offices with a large I (for Information) in front of local tourist offices in the towns and villages of Austria. The main Austrian National Tourist Office is at Margaretenstrasse 1, A-1040 Vienna (Tel: 0810/10181818).

Local Emergency Phone Numbers

Ambulance: 144
Police: 133
Fire: 122

Safety and Security

The crime rate is low in Austria. Crims of opportunities, such pickpocketing, do occur in major tourist areas, including the plaza at St. Stephen’s Cathedral and the shopping areas of Vienna’s First District. Pickpocketing is also common on public transportation. Do not leave personal belongings unattended.