Austria's Safety: A Comprehensive Overview

Austria is considered one of the safest countries in the world. Violent crimes are rare, and robbery, assault, and car theft rates are among the lowest in the developed world. Even small towns and uninhabited areas are very safe at any time of the day. However, tourists should remain vigilant, as petty crimes such as pickpocketing and bag snatching are common in tourist landmarks and crowded areas.

Transport safety

Transport in Austria is generally safe and reliable. However, there are a few things to be aware of when using different modes of transport in the country.

Public Transport

Public transportation in Austria is considered safe, but it is where most pickpocketing incidents occur. Pickpocketing and bag snatching are common in tourist landmarks, crowded areas, and on public transportation, especially international night trains travelling to and from Austria. To avoid becoming a victim of theft, it is important to be vigilant and cautious when using public transport. Keep your belongings secure and out of plain sight at all times, and be aware of your surroundings.

Driving

When driving in Austria, it is important to follow the local driving laws and regulations. Driving laws in Austria can be complex, especially for caravans and motorhomes. All drivers must carry insurance and vehicle ownership documents, and it is mandatory to have a vignette (sticker) displayed inside your windscreen when using Austrian motorways. Vignettes can be purchased at border crossings, gas stations, and small tobacco shops. Failure to display a vignette can result in a fine.

It is also important to note that the use of mobile phones while driving is prohibited unless a hands-free device is used. Winter tires are mandatory from November 1 to April 15, and all vehicles must carry high-visibility vests, which should be kept in the passenger compartment rather than the trunk.

Outdoor Activities and Adventure Sports

For outdoor activities and adventure sports, it is recommended to use a well-established company and ensure that your insurance covers your specific activity. Certain activities, such as off-piste skiing, are very dangerous and may not be covered by your travel insurance. It is important to follow safety instructions and go with a qualified guide. Additionally, always check weather forecasts and conditions, and ensure you are properly equipped with items such as a map, compass, GPS, and telecommunications equipment.

Pickpocketing

Pickpockets tend to target tourists, so it's important to remain vigilant in popular visitor areas. In Vienna, the Ringstrasse, which circles the city centre, is a hotspot for pickpockets, as are the city's largest train stations. The busy square Karlsplatz in Wieden is another area to be cautious of, as it attracts many tourists during the day, but becomes a haven for drug addicts at night. The Prater, a family amusement park, is also frequented by criminals looking for easy targets.

In Salzburg, Getreidegasse, a shopping strip where Mozart's house is located, is another place to be cautious of. The train from Prague to Vienna has also been flagged as a place where travellers' pockets and bags have been slashed, and their passports and wallets taken.

To avoid becoming a victim of pickpocketing, it's recommended to avoid keeping your wallet in your back pocket, and to keep your bag in front of your body. Be wary of people trying to distract you, and always keep a tight hold of your belongings in crowded areas. It's also advised to keep your passport and other valuables in a safe place, such as a hotel safe, rather than carrying them around with you.

Natural disasters

Austria is considered a safe country, but like any other place, it is not without its dangers. One of the natural risks in Austria is the threat of natural disasters. The country is prone to flooding, landslides, and avalanches, particularly in the alpine areas.

Flooding

Austria has experienced several extreme flood events in recent years, causing significant damage to infrastructure and endangering lives. The country's topography and geography, with its abundance of rivers, streams, and bodies of water, make it vulnerable to long-lasting and extensive floods. The Northern centre territory is particularly prone to flash flooding, and the states of Salzburg, Voralberg, Styria, and Tirol have been impacted by large-scale flooding events. The government has implemented flood protection measures and invested in protection infrastructure, but the threat of flooding remains.

Landslides

Landslides often accompany heavy rains and flooding, and Austria's mountainous regions are susceptible to this natural disaster. Landslides can be triggered by heavy rainfall or snowmelt, and they can cause significant damage to infrastructure and block roads.

Avalanches

The alpine areas of Austria, such as Salzburg, Styria, Tyrol, and Vorarlberg, are prone to avalanches, especially following heavy snowfalls. Avalanches pose a significant risk to skiers and mountaineers and residents of these regions.

While the overall risk of natural disasters in Austria is considered low, it is important for travellers and residents to stay informed about weather conditions and follow the advice of local authorities to ensure their safety.

Terrorism threat

Austria is considered one of the safest countries in the world. However, there is a threat of terrorism in Europe, and terrorists have carried out attacks in several European cities. Targets could include government buildings, airports, transportation hubs, tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, and shopping centres, among others.

Austria's Interior Ministry maintains a public alert system on terrorism, and the country's current threat level is "high" (4 out of 5). In 2020, a 20-year-old Austrian of North Macedonia origin killed four people and injured 23 others in a terrorist attack in downtown Vienna. The attacker was convicted of trying to travel to Syria to join ISIS. In response to the attack, the Austrian government submitted changes to strengthen existing counterterrorism legislation on associations, weapons, and terrorism financing. The government also pledged €8 million for post-prison programs to prevent re-radicalization to violence.

Austrian authorities monitor an estimated 100 people who returned to Austria from conflict zones, with about 70 believed to still be in the country. The government estimated that about 100 Austrian Foreign Terrorist Fighters (FTFs) were still in conflict zones in Syria and Iraq as of 2022. However, overall, Austrian officials note that "Islamist terrorist" mobilization substantially declined after 2015. There were no terrorist attacks recorded in Austria in 2022.

Austria is a member of the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS and has contributed to the EU's training and civil crisis management programs in the framework of counter-terrorism. As a member of the Financial Action Task Force, Austria helps develop international standards to counter the financing of terrorism and ensure national authorities take action to combat money laundering. Austria is also strongly committed to the Global Coalition against Daesh, primarily in the area of "stabilization" and supporting the development of state infrastructure in areas previously occupied by the Islamic State.

Women's safety

Austria is considered one of the safest countries for women, with a low crime rate and laws and regulations that are strictly enforced. The country has a strong rule of law, and authorities are helpful and trustworthy. Austria is known for its high safety standards and is usually very safe to walk around at night. The level of street harassment is also comparatively low, and the population is respectful.

However, it is important to remain aware of your surroundings and take standard safety precautions, especially at night and in crowded areas. Some areas of cities such as Vienna are considered less safe than others, and it is recommended to avoid walking alone at night in these districts. These include the 10th, 12th, 15th, and 21st districts, as well as areas around train or subway stations.

Instances of domestic violence do occur, and police lines operate 24/7 to support victims. There are also several women's shelters and helplines available across the country.

In terms of women's rights, Austria ranks highly globally, coming in sixth place in an American study from 2019. However, there is still room for improvement in achieving true gender equality. For example, the current government approved a 12-hour working day in 2019, presenting challenges for single parents and working families. Additionally, Austria has one of the highest gender pay gaps in the EU, and women are overrepresented in part-time work.

Despite these issues, Austria has taken steps to promote gender equality and protect women's rights. The country has committed to eliminating child marriage by 2030 and has implemented legislation to increase the representation of women in leadership positions. Overall, Austria is a relatively safe country for women, with a strong legal framework and support system in place.

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