Secure Cheap Flights to Austria for Your Next European Adventure

Winter is perfect for visiting Christmas markets in Vienna or hitting the slopes in the Tyrol region for world-class skiing.

Spring offers mild weather and fewer crowds, making it ideal for exploring the historic streets of Austrian cities.

Summer is the peak season for hiking in the Alps and attending world-renowned music and arts festivals.

Autumn is the time for wine festivals, golden landscapes, and comfortable temperatures for outdoor exploration.

Austria boasts one of the most efficient public transport systems in Europe. The ÖBB national rail network connects all major cities like Vienna, Salzburg, and Innsbruck with high-speed Railjet trains. Within cities, extensive tram and U-Bahn networks make navigation simple. For UK travelers, the system is remarkably punctual compared to British rail. Tickets can be purchased via mobile apps or at station kiosks; always remember to validate your ticket before boarding to avoid heavy fines. If you plan to explore the countryside or remote Alpine valleys, renting a car is a viable option, but be aware that driving is on the right side of the road. Most mountain roads are well-maintained, though winter tires are mandatory from November to April. For city-to-city travel, the train is almost always faster and more relaxing than driving.

Accommodation in Austria ranges from luxury imperial hotels to cozy mountain 'Gasthofs'. In cities, booking in advance is essential during the peak summer and Christmas market seasons. For those visiting the Alps, traditional guesthouses often offer 'half-board' options which include breakfast and dinner, providing excellent value. UK visitors will find that many Austrian hotels use the 'duvet system' with individual blankets even on double beds. Air conditioning is not as common as in the UK, especially in older buildings or mountain regions, as the thick stone walls keep interiors cool. If you are traveling on a budget, consider staying in towns just outside the main tourist hubs; the excellent rail links mean you can save significantly on room rates while still being only 20 minutes away from the city center attractions.

Austrian culture values politeness and formality. When entering a shop or restaurant, a simple 'Grüß Gott' (formal hello) or 'Guten Tag' is expected. Tipping is customary but different from the UK; rather than leaving money on the table, you should round up the bill and tell the server the total amount you wish to pay as you hand over cash or card. A tip of 5-10% is standard for good service. Austrians also value quietness, especially on Sundays and during 'Ruhezeit' (rest time) in the evenings. Unlike the UK's 24/7 culture, most shops and supermarkets are strictly closed on Sundays. Being on time is not just a suggestion; it is a sign of respect. If you have a dinner reservation or a tour booked, arriving exactly at the scheduled time is highly recommended to avoid any social friction.

Austrian food is hearty and centered around meat, potatoes, and bread. The Wiener Schnitzel is the national dish, traditionally made with veal. UK travelers will enjoy the vibrant 'Kaffeehaus' culture, where you can sit for hours with a single coffee and a slice of Sachertorte. Tap water in Austria is of exceptional quality, often sourced directly from Alpine springs, so there is no need to buy bottled water. When dining out, lunch is often the main meal of the day, and many restaurants offer a 'Mittagsmenü' (fixed-price lunch menu) which is much cheaper than the evening a la carte options. Don't be a tourist by only eating in the city centers; look for 'Beisl' (traditional bistros) in residential neighborhoods for authentic flavors and lower prices. For a unique experience, visit a Heuriger wine tavern in the outskirts of Vienna for local wine and buffet-style snacks.