Using Credit Cards In Austria: What You Need To Know

Credit cards are widely accepted in Austria, particularly in major cities like Vienna, Salzburg, and Graz, as well as popular ski resorts. Major credit card providers such as Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Diners Club are all commonly accepted at large businesses, shops, hotels, and restaurants. However, smaller stores, markets, and restaurants may only accept cash, so it is advisable to carry enough euros when traveling throughout Austria.

Credit cards are widely accepted in Austria

ATMs are prevalent in all Austrian cities and even smaller towns, making it convenient for travelers to withdraw cash if needed. It is recommended to use ATMs within banks as they are less likely to be tampered with and if your card gets stuck, you can quickly retrieve it. It is also important to ensure that your card has a four-digit PIN as six-digit PINs are not accepted in Austria.

When using credit cards for purchases, it is common to be asked whether you want to pay in euros or your home currency. It is recommended to choose to pay in euros to avoid dynamic currency conversion (DCC), which can result in higher fees. Additionally, some retailers may enforce a minimum purchase amount for credit card transactions.

While credit cards are widely accepted in Austria, it is worth noting that debit cards are more widespread and popular. Therefore, it is advisable to carry a debit card and some cash, especially when visiting places outside of major tourist areas.

Cash is king in smaller stores

Credit cards are widely accepted in Austria, particularly in larger businesses and those that are frequented by tourists. However, it is recommended that you carry some cash, especially for smaller stores, Christmas markets, and eateries outside of tourist hotspots, as these places may not accept card payments.

While credit cards are a popular means of payment in shops, restaurants, and other commercial establishments, Austria does not have a strong tradition of credit card use. Debit cards are more widespread and preferred by locals. Credit cards are also often not accepted on public transport, and some machines are cashless. Therefore, it is always a good idea to carry cash, especially when travelling to smaller towns and rural areas, as ATMs may be harder to find.

Major credit card providers such as Visa, Mastercard, and American Express are widely accepted at major retailers, hotels, and restaurants. However, smaller stores may only accept cash, so it is important to carry enough euros with you. This is especially true outside of major cities like Vienna, Salzburg, or Graz, or popular skiing resorts.

When using your credit card in Austria, you may encounter some fees, including foreign transaction fees, merchant currency conversion fees, cash advance fees, and cash machine fees. To avoid these fees, consider taking out a credit card offering commission-free currency conversion or using a prepaid travel debit card, which usually has lower fees and exchange rates.

In addition, it is important to note that when using your credit card for cash advances or non-sterling transactions, many card issuers will start charging interest on the day your account is debited, rather than providing an interest-free period. Therefore, it is advisable to inform your bank that you will be travelling to Austria to avoid any unexpected charges or your card being blocked due to suspicious activity.

ATMs are easy to find in cities

Credit cards are widely accepted in Austria, particularly in larger businesses and those that are frequented by tourists. Major credit card providers such as Visa, Mastercard, and American Express are all widely accepted at major retailers, hotels, and restaurants.

However, ATMs are prevalent in all Austrian cities, and even in smaller towns. They can be found within banks or on the street. It is worth noting that ATMs within banks are generally safer and less likely to be tampered with. Additionally, if your card gets stuck in the machine, you can quickly retrieve it.

It is recommended to carry a backup card when travelling, in case your primary card is lost or stolen. It is also important to inform your bank that you will be travelling to Austria to avoid any potential issues with your card being deactivated due to suspicious activity.

Foreign transaction fees can add up

Credit cards are widely used across Austria and are accepted by most shops, businesses, hotels, restaurants, and other commercial establishments. Major credit card providers such as Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Diners Club are all widely accepted at major retailers, hotels, and restaurants. However, smaller stores may only accept cash, especially outside major cities like Vienna, Salzburg, or Graz, or popular ski resorts. Therefore, it is recommended to carry cash, especially for Christmas markets and when visiting smaller towns and rural areas.

• Foreign transaction fees: A non-sterling fee of around 3% per transaction can apply, depending on your credit card provider. This can amount to a significant sum, especially if you plan to make multiple purchases.
• Merchant currency conversion fees: Sometimes, a merchant may offer to charge you in pounds instead of euros. This is known as a dynamic currency conversion (DCC) and can result in higher fees than if you simply paid in the local currency. It is usually more expensive to accept DCC and pay in your home currency.
• Cash advance fees: Your card issuer may charge a fee for cash advances, which is the term for withdrawing cash using your credit card. These fees can vary depending on your card provider and the amount of cash withdrawn.
• Cash machine fees: Although it is becoming rarer, the provider of a cash machine may charge a fee if you withdraw cash using your credit card.

To avoid these fees, consider the following options:

• Get a credit card without foreign transaction fees: If you travel frequently, a credit card without foreign transaction fees can save you a significant amount of money.
• Opt for a Mastercard or Visa: These are the most widely accepted credit cards in Austria and are accepted by most ATMs.
• Carry a backup card: Always carry a backup credit or debit card when travelling abroad in case your primary card is lost, stolen, or damaged.
• Inform your bank of your travel plans: Let your bank know the dates and locations of your trip to Austria. This will help prevent your card from being blocked due to suspected fraudulent activity.
• Compare cards with fee-free currency conversion: Look for credit cards that offer fee-free currency conversion in euros to avoid paying extra charges.

Notify your bank before travelling

Credit cards are widely used in Austria and are accepted at shops, restaurants, and other commercial establishments. Major credit card providers such as Visa, Mastercard, and American Express are all widely accepted at major retailers, hotels, and restaurants. However, smaller stores may only accept cash, so it is a good idea to carry some euros with you, especially outside major cities like Vienna, Salzburg, or Graz, or popular ski resorts.

To ensure a smooth transaction process when travelling to Austria, it is highly recommended to notify your bank before your trip. Here are some reasons why:

• Credit card companies monitor cardholders' accounts for any unusual or suspicious activity. If they notice a transaction from a different location, they may flag it as suspicious and decline the charge. By informing your bank about your travel plans, you can avoid this inconvenience.
• If you don't notify your bank and they suspect fraudulent charges, they may put your account on hold, preventing you from making purchases until you can authorize the transactions. This can be a hassle, especially if you are in a different country with poor cell service or if you haven't set up international calling.
• Some banks may require a travel notice to be set up for your credit card. This is usually done online or through a mobile app, where you log in to your account and provide details about your travel destination and duration.
• Notifying your bank about your travel plans can also help them monitor your account for any fraudulent activity. They can send you alerts if they detect any suspicious activity, giving you peace of mind during your trip.
• In case of an emergency, such as a lost or stolen card, having notified your bank in advance can help expedite the process of cancelling and replacing your card.

Frequently asked questions