Exploring Austria: Planning Your Next Holiday Getaway

Austria is an ideal holiday destination, offering impressive nature, rich culture, and delicious cuisine. Travellers can explore Alpine landscapes, historic cities, and world-class ski resorts. The country boasts a well-developed public transportation network, making it easy to navigate. However, it's important to note that Austria has strict entry and customs regulations, including passport and visa requirements. Additionally, there are specific guidelines for bringing pets into the country. Before planning your trip, be sure to check the latest travel advice and recommendations for the country.

Travel to Austria: visas, passports, and other entry requirements

Austria is a member of the Schengen Area, so Canadian citizens do not need a visa to enter the country. However, they can only stay for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. For longer stays, a visa is required. Nationals of EU countries, EEA countries, Switzerland, Australia, Japan, Canada, the US, and others do not need a visa to enter Austria. All other nationalities require a Schengen visa for stays of up to 90 days.

Your passport must meet the following requirements for entry into Austria:

• Have at least three months' validity beyond your planned departure date from the Schengen area (although six months is recommended)
• Be less than 10 years old, even if it has more than six months left until expiry

If you are travelling with children, they will each need their own identification document (identity card or passport). Entries for children in their parent's passport are no longer valid.

If you are travelling by car, note that tolls are compulsory on motorways and expressways. You will need to purchase a vignette (toll sticker) for your vehicle.

If you are travelling by plane, you can fly into one of Austria's international airports, including Vienna, Salzburg, Innsbruck, and Graz.

Transport in Austria: getting around by plane, train, bus, or car

Austria is a well-connected country with a comprehensive transport network, making it easy to get around and explore its stunning landscapes and cities. Here are some tips for getting around Austria by plane, train, bus, or car.

By plane: Austria has several international airports, making it convenient to fly into the country from overseas. The largest airport is Vienna International Airport (VIE), located about 18 km southeast of Vienna city centre. Other international airports include Salzburg Airport (SZG), Innsbruck Airport (INN), and Graz Airport (GRZ). Once you arrive at the airport, you can easily reach your final destination by train, bus, or car. For example, the City Airport Train (CAT) provides a direct link between VIE and Vienna's city centre in just 16 minutes.

By train: Travelling by train is a comfortable and scenic way to get around Austria. The country's rail network is extensive and well-maintained, with efficient long-distance trains and local services. The national railway company, Österreichische Bundesbahnen (ÖBB), offers various ticket options, including the ÖBB Vorteilscard, which provides discounts on fares for individuals or families. High-speed trains, such as the Railjet, connect major cities like Vienna, Salzburg, and Innsbruck, while regional trains serve smaller towns and villages.

By bus: Austria has a reliable and affordable bus network that complements the train system. Postbuses, operated by Österreichische Postbus AG, cover a wide range of routes, especially in rural areas where train connections may be limited. These buses are comfortable and usually synchronized with train schedules, making it convenient to transfer between the two modes of transport. Flixbus is another popular option for long-distance bus travel within Austria and to neighbouring countries.

By car: Renting a car gives you the freedom to explore Austria at your own pace. The country has an excellent network of well-maintained roads, including the Autobahn, the high-speed highway system. Tolls apply on the Autobahn for vehicles under 3.5 tonnes; you can purchase a toll sticker (Vignette) valid for 10 days, two months, or a year. Driving in Austria is generally safe, but be prepared for mountain roads and potential winter driving conditions, especially in alpine regions.

Accommodation: hotels, chalets, and ski-in-ski-out options

Austria is a fantastic destination for a holiday, offering efficient ski lift systems, excellent snowmaking, and a well-developed public transportation network. Travellers from the UK, US, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand will require an ETIAS travel authorisation from spring 2025. Other nationalities should check the relevant visa requirements.

Austria has a range of accommodation options, from hotels to chalets, with something to suit all tastes and budgets. Here is a more detailed look at some of the choices available:

Hotels

Hotels in Austria vary from luxurious to affordable, with something to suit every budget and taste. Many hotels offer ski-in-ski-out access, providing the ultimate in convenience. Oberlech, for example, offers guests direct access to the Arlberg ski region and is connected by cable car to Lech am Arlberg. The compact St Christoph am Arlberg offers slope-side and ski-in/ski-out hotels with access to the Arlberg ski area. Located high above Innsbruck, Axamer Lizum provides ski-in/ski-out accommodation amidst magical peaks.

Chalets

Austria is known for its luxury chalets, which offer a unique and authentic ski holiday experience. These chalets often feature stylish interiors, priceless views, and easy access to the slopes. Lech, part of the Arlberg ski area, is known for its glamorous chalets, while Kitzbühel, home to the world's most difficult downhill race, offers beautiful medieval chalets. Chalet Bischofer Alm and Apartment Antoinette are excellent choices for ski-in-ski-out chalets.

Ski-in-ski-out options

Several resorts in Austria provide the convenience of ski-in-ski-out access, allowing guests to maximise their time on the slopes. The highest ski resort in Austria, at 2150m, offers direct access to the Obergurgl-Hochgurgl ski area. Hochsölden, the second-highest resort, sits at 2090m in the Sölden ski area. Zürs am Arlberg offers ski-in-ski-out access to the renowned Arlberg skiing area, and with accommodation on both sides of the valley, it is a popular choice.

Activities: hiking, skiing, theme parks, and festivals

Austria is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wide range of activities, from hiking and skiing to exploring theme parks.

Hiking

Austria's diverse landscapes provide excellent hiking opportunities for all levels of walkers. The E5 Alpine Crossing is a classic multi-country trek that takes hikers through Italy, Austria, and Germany. The route includes challenging ascents and descents, with sections of rope to aid climbers, and is recommended for experienced hikers or those with a good level of fitness. The Tyrolean Alps: Garmisch to Innsbruck trail is another option that combines hiking with cultural exploration, allowing hikers to spend a night in a traditional Alpine hut. The Kitzbühel Alpine Trail offers stunning views and baroque towns, while the Salzburg Lakes provide an opportunity to combine nature and culture, strolling along lakeshores before exploring the baroque old town.

Skiing

Austria is renowned for its ski resorts, with options catering to a range of preferences and skill levels. Some notable resorts include:

• H5 Grauer Bär Studios & More in Innenstadt, Innsbruck
• Gast House Zell am See
• Apartmenthaus Nr 1 in Lienz
• Stoagas Waidblick in Sankt Michael im Lungau
• GLEMM by AvenidA Superior Hotel & Residences in Hinterglemm, Saalbach-Hinterglemm
• Carpe Solem Rauris by ALPS RESORTS in Rauris
• Stadtvilla Schladming Boutiquehotel in Schladming

Theme Parks

Austria is home to numerous theme parks that offer fun and excitement for all ages. Here are some options:

• Familypark in Burgenland, Austria's largest adventure park
• Nocky's AlmZeit in Carinthia
• Dinopark Hubhof in Lower Austria, featuring life-size prehistoric models
• Adventure Park IKUNA Naturresort in Upper Austria
• FANTASIANA Adventure Park Straßwalchen in SalzburgerLand
• Triassic Park Steinplatte Waidring in Tirol
• Summer Fun Park Fiss in Vorarlberg, accessible only by cable car
• Vienna Prater, open since 1766

Festivals

Austria also hosts a variety of festivals throughout the year, including:

• Christmas markets in late November to December
• Perchtenlaufen (winter processions) in December in the Alpine regions
• St. Nikolaus Day on December 6, featuring parades and gift-giving
• New Year's Eve celebrations, especially in Vienna, with fireworks and festivities
• Fasching (carnival season) in January-February in western Austria, including balls and parades
• Mozart Week in late January-February in Salzburg, celebrating Mozart's music
• Osterfestspiele Salzburg (Easter Music Festival) in April
• Vienna Festival of Arts and Music in May-June
• Danube Island Festival in late June, featuring music and entertainment
• Bregenzer Festspiele in July-August, showcasing theatre, opera, and orchestra concerts
• Saalfelden Jazz Festival in August, featuring jazz music and performances

Health and safety: terrorism, crime, and road safety

Austria has a well-developed institutional and legal system, and its intentional homicide rate is one of the lowest in the world. However, petty crimes such as pickpocketing and bag snatching are common, especially in crowded public areas and tourist hotspots. Here are some essential health and safety precautions to consider when travelling to Austria:

Terrorism

Austria's terrorism threat level is currently at 4, "high", on a 5-step scale. As with other European cities, there is a risk of terrorist attacks in Austria. Targets may include government buildings, transportation hubs, and tourist attractions. It is important to remain vigilant and aware of your surroundings, especially during large gatherings or celebrations. The Austrian Interior Ministry maintains a public alert system on terrorism, so it is advisable to monitor this and follow any instructions or guidance provided by the local authorities.

Crime

Austria generally has low crime rates, but petty crimes such as pickpocketing and bag snatching are prevalent in crowded areas, including tourist hotspots, public transportation, restaurants, and cafes. Residential burglaries are also a concern, especially in more affluent neighbourhoods. Be cautious when using debit or credit cards, and always keep your belongings, passport, and travel documents secure. Additionally, thieves often target international night trains travelling to and from Austria, so it is important to remain vigilant during your journey.

Road Safety

When driving in Austria, it is essential to follow the local traffic rules and regulations. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

• The use of seat belts is mandatory for drivers and passengers, except when reversing or parking, or for those exempt due to disability or size.
• The legal blood alcohol limit for driving is 0.05 per cent, and the penalties for drinking and driving are severe.
• Mobile phone use while driving is prohibited unless the phone is fitted with a hands-free device.
• Winter tyres are mandatory from 1 November to 15 April for vehicles above 3.5 tonnes and only mandatory for vehicles below 3.5 tonnes if the road is covered with snow or ice.
• High-visibility vests must be kept in the passenger compartment of the vehicle, and tyre chains should be carried when travelling on mountain roads in winter.
• Autobahn vignette (toll) stickers must be purchased for highway travel and affixed to the car's windshield. Failure to do so can result in heavy fines.
• Speed limits vary depending on the type of vehicle and road, so it is important to follow the posted signs.

Frequently asked questions