Exploring Austria: An Affordable Adventure?

Planning a trip to Austria? It's important to consider your budget. While the country is not a budget destination, with some smart planning, you can make your money go further.

The average daily cost per person is around €150-€175, but this can vary depending on your travel style. For example, budget travellers can spend as little as €69 per day, while luxury travellers may spend over €400 per day.

Accommodation is a significant factor in determining the overall cost of your trip. In Austria, you can find budget hotels starting from €50 per night, mid-range options averaging €100-€150, and luxury hotels that can cost over €200 per night. Vacation rentals are also available, typically ranging from €30 to €60 per night.

When it comes to food, Austrian cuisine offers a range of options to suit different budgets. You can enjoy local delicacies like Wiener Schnitzel for around €10-€15 per meal, or indulge in gourmet dining experiences that can exceed €50 per person. Street food and markets offer more affordable choices, while a cup of coffee will cost you around €3.50-€4.50.

Transportation costs are relatively inexpensive, with a one-way ticket on public transport costing around €2.40, and daily travel cards priced at less than €10. Exploring the country by train is also a cost-effective option, with advance tickets offering significant savings.

So, while Austria may not be the cheapest destination, with careful planning and consideration of your budget, you can certainly make the most of your trip without breaking the bank.

Daily budget for meals

The daily food budget for one person in Austria can vary depending on their preferences and budget. Here is a breakdown of what you can expect to spend on meals during your trip:

Budget Travellers

For those on a tight budget, it is possible to spend as little as $25 per day on meals. This may involve eating at inexpensive restaurants, street food vendors, or fast-food joints. A typical meal at a local eatery serving Wiener Schnitzel and other Austrian delicacies will cost around €10-€15. Street food options like sausages and kebabs can be found for less than €10, and a cup of coffee at a coffee house will cost approximately €3.50.

Mid-Range Travellers

Mid-range travellers can expect to spend around $65 per day on meals. This allows for more flexibility in dining options, including both casual and nicer restaurants. A typical daily food budget for this range includes breakfast options ranging from $12 to $20, and dinner at a restaurant for about $25 per person.

Luxury Travellers

Luxury travellers can expect to spend upwards of $100 per day on meals. This budget allows for gourmet dining experiences in high-end restaurants, where meals can cost €50 or more per person. Indulging in a traditional coffee with cream in a Viennese coffee house will cost between €3 and €7.

Additional Considerations

• Take advantage of supermarkets and markets for budget-friendly meals and snacks.
• Look for end-of-day deals at supermarkets and download the Too Good to Go app for last-minute food bundles.
• Consider eating breakfast at a bakery instead of a hotel to save money.
• Book accommodation that includes breakfast to save on meal costs.
• Avoid dining out for every meal by cooking your own meals if you have access to a kitchen.
• Take advantage of free walking tours and other activities that include food, such as food tours or cooking classes, to save on meal costs while still experiencing the local cuisine.

Public transport costs

Austria's public transport system is efficient and budget-friendly. The country's transport network includes buses, city trains, and trams, with prices varying depending on the type of ticket and the city. A one-way ticket typically costs around €2.40, while a city card for unlimited travel within the capital city, Vienna, ranges from €17.10 for a 48-hour pass to €24.90 for a 72-hour pass.

In big cities, a single ride on public transport might cost as little as €2.40, but it is more economical to purchase a 24-hour pass, which costs less than €10. For example, in Vienna, a single ride on public transport costs €2.40, while a 24-hour ticket costs €8.

When it comes to train travel, purchasing tickets in advance can result in significant savings. The national rail operator, ÖBB, offers Sparschiene tickets with discounts of up to 50% for fixed-departure times. Alternatively, private rail operator WESTbahn, which connects Vienna to other major cities, offers supersaver and flexible tickets. For frequent travellers, a Eurail Austria pass, starting at €144 for three days, may be a more cost-effective option.

For those planning to explore multiple cities or travel extensively within Austria, city tourism cards can provide additional savings. These cards include public transportation and discounts for attractions, such as the Schlossbergbahn in Graz. The Vienna City Card includes a 20% discount on participating hotels and restaurants, while the Graz Card offers free travel on the Schlossbergbahn and the Schlossberglift, as well as an old town tour. The Salzburg Card offers particularly good value for money, providing one night of accommodation and free admission to all city tourist attractions and museums.

Overall, public transport in Austria is relatively inexpensive, making it a great option for budget-conscious travellers. By taking advantage of advance booking, city cards, and tourism passes, visitors can further reduce their transportation costs and make the most of their time in this beautiful country.

Accommodation costs

The cost of accommodation in Austria varies depending on factors such as location, season, and level of luxury. Here is a breakdown of what you can expect to pay for accommodation in Austria:

Budget Hotels

Budget hotels in Austria typically start from €50 per night. These hotels offer basic amenities and may not include additional services such as complimentary breakfast or room service. However, they provide a cost-effective option for travellers on a tight budget.

Mid-Range Hotels

For travellers seeking more comfort and amenities, mid-range hotels in Austria average €100-€150 per night. These hotels often provide better locations, larger rooms, and additional facilities such as restaurants, gyms, or swimming pools. They cater to families, couples, and those looking for a more well-rounded experience.

Luxury Hotels

Luxury hotels in Austria offer opulent experiences and can easily exceed €200 per night. These hotels are typically located in city centres or exclusive areas, providing easy access to popular attractions. They feature luxurious rooms, fine dining options, and exceptional service. Luxury hotels cater to travellers seeking a high-end experience and are willing to pay a premium for it.

Vacation Rentals

Vacation rentals are also a popular option in Austria, with prices ranging from €30 to €60 per night for budget-friendly choices and €170 to €510 per night for more upscale rentals. These rentals often include multiple bedrooms, kitchens, and living areas, making them ideal for families, groups, or longer stays.

Hostels

For the budget-conscious traveller, hostels offer dorm beds at around €30 per night. This option is perfect for those who don't mind sharing a room with other travellers and are looking for the most affordable accommodation.

Seasonal Variations

It is important to consider seasonal variations when planning your trip to Austria. Peak seasons, such as summer and Christmas, tend to have higher accommodation prices, with rates potentially increasing by 50%. On the other hand, visiting during the shoulder season (spring and autumn) can result in more affordable options, with discounts of up to 30% on accommodations.

Location-Specific Prices

Accommodation prices also vary depending on the location within Austria. Here are some location-specific prices for reference:

• Vienna: €59-€280 per night, depending on the season
• Graz: €83-€155 per night, with four-star hotels ranging from €93 to €174
• Linz: €62-€230 per night, offering a wide range of options

Planning Tips

To find the best deals and save money on accommodation in Austria, consider the following tips:

• Book in advance: Planning your trip early and booking accommodations in advance can help you secure better rates, especially during peak seasons.
• Compare prices: Utilise online tools and websites to compare prices across different accommodation options and locations. This allows you to find the best value for your budget.
• Consider alternative accommodations: Vacation rentals, hostels, or budget hotels can provide more affordable options without compromising on comfort.
• Be flexible with travel dates: Travelling during the shoulder season or off-peak months can result in significant savings on accommodations.

Flight costs

The cost of your flight to Austria will depend on a number of factors, including the time of year, your class of travel, and where you are flying from.

Seasonal Variation

Flight prices to Austria are, on average, at their highest in early to mid-July, with a median price of $798. The lowest average price is in mid-January, when flights can be as cheap as $669.

The cheapest times to fly to Austria are usually between 8 January and 1 April, and 10 September and 9 December. The absolute cheapest time to take a vacation in Austria is often mid-January.

Class of Travel

Economy flights to Austria range from $669 to $1,016 per person, while first-class flights can cost between $2,101 and $3,190.

Family Costs

For a family of four, economy flights can cost between $1,400 and $3,315, while first-class flights can be as expensive as $8,408.

Sightseeing and activities

Austria has a wide range of sightseeing opportunities and activities, from historical landmarks to natural wonders. Here is a detailed breakdown of what you can expect in terms of sightseeing and activities on your trip to Austria:

Historical Landmarks and Cultural Attractions

Austria is known for its rich history and cultural offerings, including:

• Mirabell Garden: This beautiful garden in Salzburg offers free entry and is a great place to stroll and enjoy the outdoors.
• Museums: Austria has numerous museums that provide insights into its cultural heritage. Entry fees typically range from €8 to €15, and many museums offer free entry on certain days or discounted tickets for students and seniors. For example, the Wien Museum Karlsplatz in Vienna offers free admission and showcases over one million objects from the city's history.
• Fortress Hohensalzburg: Located in Salzburg, this 12th-century fortress sits atop the Festungsberg mountain and is one of the largest castles in Europe.
• Schloss Schönbrunn: This imperial Baroque palace in Vienna has been a popular tourist destination since the 1960s.
• Classical Music Venues: Austria is famous for its classical music scene, with Vienna and Salzburg being cultural epicentres. Attending a performance at the Vienna State Opera can range from €50 for standard tickets to over €200 for premium seats.
• Film and Music Events: Throughout the year, Austria hosts various free film and music events, such as the Summer Night Concert in Schönbrunn Palace (Vienna) in June and the Vienna Film Festival from June to September.

Natural Wonders and Outdoor Activities

Austria's natural landscape is dominated by the stunning Austrian Alps, which offer a range of outdoor activities:

• Skiing and Winter Sports: Austria is a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts, with world-class ski resorts and winter sports activities. Daily ski passes average €50-€60.
• Hiking: During the summer months, the Austrian Alps offer incredible hiking opportunities. Exploring the Alpine lakes and taking boat rides can also be done at a reasonable cost, with boat rental prices starting around €20-€30.
• Mountain Lift Passes: Mountain lift passes can be expensive, but discounts are often available for children, students, and seniors.
• Botanical Gardens: Visiting a botanical garden is a great way to experience nature and can cost as little as €5-€10.
• Lakes: Swimming in Vienna's Alte Donau or Salzburg's Almkanal is a refreshing way to cool off during the summer months.

Food and Dining

Austrian cuisine offers a range of delicious options to suit all budgets:

• Street Food: Street food vendors and markets offer meals at reasonable prices, typically ranging from €10-€15 per meal. A typical late-night snack is a Käsekrainer (a sausage stuffed with cheese) and a beer, costing less than €10.
• Gourmet Dining: For a more indulgent experience, gourmet restaurants offer culinary delights that can exceed €50 per person.
• Coffee Houses: Austria is famous for its coffee houses, where you can enjoy a cup of coffee for approximately €3.50-€7.
• Local Specialties: Trying local specialties such as Wiener Schnitzel and Apfelstrudel is a must when visiting Austria.

Transportation

Austria has an efficient and budget-friendly public transportation system:

• Public Transport: A one-way ticket typically costs around €2.40, while a city card for unlimited travel within Vienna ranges from €17.10 (48-hour pass) to €24.90 (72-hour pass).
• Train Travel: Purchasing train tickets in advance can save you money. The national rail operator, ÖBB, offers Sparschiene tickets at a discount, and private rail operators like WESTbahn offer supersaver and flexible tickets.
• City Tourism Cards: These cards offer free or discounted rates for attractions and public transportation. For example, the Salzburg Card offers free admission to all city tourist attractions and museums.

Frequently asked questions