Exploring Austria: Is It An Affordable Vacation Spot?

Austria is a moderately-priced destination to visit, with prices for food, accommodation, and transportation all being fairly reasonable.

According to one source, the average daily cost per person is $191 (€175), including $68 (€62) on meals, $28 (€25) on local transportation, and $176 (€162) on hotels. However, this can vary depending on your travel style and speed. For example, budget travellers spend $76 (€69) per person per day, while luxury travellers spend around $483 (€442).

Compared to other European countries, Austria is less expensive than Switzerland, France, and Italy, but more expensive than Belgium, Portugal, and Croatia. Vienna, the capital, is also more affordable than cities like London.

There are ways to visit Austria on a budget. For example, you can find budget flights to Vienna and Salzburg, or fly to Munich or Prague and take a budget bus to Austria. Staying in a hotel outside of the major cities, or in a hostel, campsite, or Airbnb, can also help reduce costs. Eating at supermarkets or street food vendors, taking public transit, and enjoying free activities like hiking are other ways to save money.

Overall, with some careful planning, it is possible to visit Austria without breaking the bank.

Food and drink

Austria is a moderately priced destination for food and drink. The average traveller spends around 30 EUR (33 USD) a day on food, and a meal at an inexpensive restaurant costs around 12 EUR per person. In Vienna, there are plenty of takeaway food stands, with smaller dishes costing under 5 EUR.

Some traditional Austrian dishes to try include:

• Wiener Schnitzel: a breaded meat dish, usually served with potatoes.
• Apfelstrudel: apple strudel is a pastry dessert filled with apples and sprinkled with cinnamon and powdered sugar, often served with cream.
• Tafelspitz: a boiled beef dish cooked with root vegetables and served with spices, sliced potatoes, apple sauce, and sour cream.

In terms of drinks, a 500ml glass of local beer in a restaurant will cost around 3.90 EUR, while a 330ml bottle of imported beer will be around 4 EUR. It is much cheaper to buy beer from a grocery store, where a 500ml bottle of local beer will cost just over 1 EUR.

Coffee is the national drink, and prices can vary depending on where you are. In Vienna, a single espresso is 2.80 EUR, and a cappuccino is 4.50 EUR. However, in very central traditional coffee houses, prices can be much higher.

Transport

Austria has an excellent transport system, with an outstanding train system that connects you to almost anywhere in the country. The prices are quite reasonable, and the rides are both fast and comfortable. When rail lines don't reach your destination, long-distance and regional buses can step in.

For those looking to save money, utilising public transit is a great option. Many areas offer dependable public transportation systems, with some of the best found in Vienna and Salzburg. Additionally, walking is a more personal way to explore and is a preferred option in Vienna and Graz.

In larger urban areas like Vienna and Salzburg, it's advisable to invest in a multi-day pass if you plan to use public transit frequently. Depending on your travel patterns, this could save you a lot compared to individual ticket purchases.

If your plans include a trip to the countryside, renting a car is recommended. Remember that most vehicles in Europe are equipped with a manual transmission, and choosing an automatic will likely increase the cost. Be sure to book in advance, as the more economical choices can disappear quickly.

If you have a car while staying in a larger city, it's wise to confirm the parking arrangements with your hotel before arrival, as parking fees may apply. Sometimes, parking further from the city centre can be a more cost-effective option.

On average, past travellers have spent $28 (€25) per person, per day, on local transportation in Austria. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Austria is significantly more than public transportation.

• Buy train tickets in advance: The Austrian trains can be pricey if you wait until the last minute. One of the cheapest ways to travel around Austria is by train, as long as you can get a Sparschiene ticket from the national carrier ÖBB. These tickets are heavily discounted, but they come with several restrictions and are bound to specific routes and connections.
• Take the Westbahn: The Westbahn is a private train company that operates between Salzburg, Linz, and Vienna. They offer rates as low as 9 euros between some cities.
• Consider renting a car: If you plan to do outdoor activities or stay outside of major cities, having a car can be a huge asset. It can help you cut accommodation costs and access cheaper supermarkets. However, most major cities don't provide free parking, so expect to pay accordingly.
• Find free parking: You can generally find free street parking in most Austrian cities in the evenings (after 10 pm) and on Sundays.

Overall, transportation in Austria is relatively affordable, especially when compared to other Western European countries. With a bit of planning and flexibility, you can explore the country without breaking the bank.

Accommodation

Average Costs

According to Budget Your Trip, the average price paid in Austria for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $176 (€162) per night. For one person sharing a room, the average price is $88 (€81) per night. However, these prices can vary depending on location, date, season, and level of luxury.

Budget Options

For those looking for cheaper options, Vienna offers dorm beds in hostels from as little as $22 per night. Graz and Linz, two other popular destinations, offer dorm beds for around $13 and $42 respectively.

If you're willing to stay a little outside the major cities, you can find more affordable options. For example, rooms 20-30 minutes outside of Salzburg or Hallstatt can be as low as $49 per night. Alternatively, campsites are available from as little as $20-50 per night.

Luxury Options

For travellers seeking a more luxurious experience, there are plenty of high-end hotels and resorts to choose from. During the peak season, hotel prices in Vienna can range from $280 per night for a boutique hotel to $59 for a budget option. In Graz, prices range from $155 in the busy season to $83 in the low season. Linz offers a wide range of options, from $62 to $230 per night.

Booking Tips

To get the best deals, it is recommended to book your accommodation in advance, especially if you are visiting during the peak season. Prices tend to increase significantly during the summer and winter months, so consider visiting during the shoulder or low seasons when prices are more reasonable.

Apartment Rentals

For longer stays or for those travelling in larger groups, apartment or vacation rentals can be a more cost-effective option. This is especially useful for families or groups who can cook their own meals instead of dining out for every meal.

Other Considerations

When considering accommodation options, it is important to factor in other costs such as transportation and parking. Major cities like Vienna and Salzburg typically charge for parking, so staying outside the city centre or utilizing public transportation can help save money.

Overall

While accommodation in Austria can vary in price, there are options available for all budgets. By planning ahead and considering different types of lodging, travellers can find suitable options that fit within their financial plans.

Skiing

Ski Resort Costs:

The cost of ski resorts in Austria can vary depending on the location and amenities offered. According to TripAdvisor, the average daily cost per person for a ski resort in Austria is around $174. Here are some price ranges for different types of ski resorts in Austria:

• Luxury Resorts: $483 per day
• Mid-Range Resorts: $192 per day
• Budget-Friendly Options: $76 per day

Ski Lift Passes:

The price of ski lift passes in Austria depends on the resort and the type of pass. Here are some options:

• Season Pass: This is often the best choice for avid skiers, as it offers the best value. A season pass typically pays for itself after a few days on the slopes.
• Daily Lift Tickets: Prices vary based on dates, age, and the number of days. Early bird and late-season lift tickets usually offer the best prices.

Top Ski Resorts in Austria:

According to Skiresort.info, here are some of the top ski resorts in Austria with their respective day ticket prices during the main season:

• SkiWelt Wilder Kaiser-Brixental: €73
• Serfaus-Fiss-Ladis: €74
• KitzSki – Kitzbühel/Kirchberg: €76
• Hoch-Imst – Imst: €42.20
• Venet – Landeck/Zams/Fliess: €42
• Glungezer – Tulfes: €48

Accommodation:

Accommodation costs can vary depending on the location and type of accommodation. Here are some tips for finding affordable options:

• Book in Advance: It is recommended to book your accommodation early, especially if visiting during peak season.
• Stay Outside Major Cities: Consider staying in towns or villages located 15-20 minutes outside popular ski resorts to find more affordable options.
• Campsites and Hostels: For budget-friendly options, look for campsites or hostels, which can cost between €20 and €50 per night.

Transportation:

Transportation costs in Austria can be high, especially for taxi or private car rentals. Here are some tips to save money on transportation:

• Train Travel: The Austrian trains offer Sparschiene tickets, which are discounted train tickets for specific routes and connections. These tickets are limited and must be purchased in advance.
• Westbahn: This private train company offers low-cost travel between Salzburg, Linz, and Vienna, with rates as low as €9.
• Free Parking: Consider renting a car to access free parking options in the evenings and on Sundays in most Austrian cities.

Food and Drinks:

Food and drinks in Austria can be expensive, but there are ways to save money:

• Supermarkets: Shop at supermarkets like Hofer, Billa, Spar, Lidl, and Penny for affordable food and drinks. Spar is recommended for a wider assortment of products.
• Budget-Friendly Meals: Look for traditional Austrian meals like pancake soup (frittatensuppe) or goulash, which are typically cheaper options.
• Beer and Wine: Buy beer and wine from supermarkets or gas stations, where you can find local craft beer and decent wine for under €7.

Other Tips:

• Free Attractions: Explore free attractions like castle ruins and churches, or take advantage of free walking tours and hiking trails.
• Shoulder Season: Visit during the shoulder season (spring or fall) to find lower accommodation rates and fewer crowds.
• Compare Prices: Compare prices for ski resorts, transportation, and attractions to find the best deals.

Sightseeing

Austria is a wonderful country to visit, with its cities oozing culture and its countryside full of breathtaking scenery. It is not the cheapest place to visit, but it can be done on a reasonable budget. The average cost of a holiday in Austria for a couple is 1,644 EUR a week, but this can vary depending on your spending habits.

Vienna

• The standard adult entrance ticket to the zoo is €27, while children aged 6-18 pay €15.50.
• Entrance to the Kunsthistorisches Museum is €21.
• Entrance to the Albertina art museum and staterooms is €19.90.
• A self-guided grand tour of Schönbrunn Palace is €32, while the cheapest self-guided option is €22.
• A ride on the Giant Ferris Wheel is €14.
• Movie tickets at an English-language cinema start at around €8.90-€10.90.
• Theatre and opera tickets can range from the price of a cup of coffee if you stand, to over €50 or even €200 for the best seats.
• Classical concerts can start from around €30 and go up to four figures for the best seats at the New Year's concert.
• A 24-hour travel card for Vienna is €8, while a 7-day travel pass is €19.70 (personalised) or €22.60 (valid for the bearer).
• A return ticket to/from the airport on a dedicated non-stop express train is €24.90, while a return trip on a standard S-Bahn train is around €9.

Salzburg

• The city of Salzburg is the setting for the classic film "The Sound of Music".
• It is also the birthplace of Mozart, and there are several museums dedicated to his life.

Innsbruck

• Innsbruck is a beautiful city to visit any time of the year.
• In the summer, you can lounge outside and people-watch in the beautiful old town.
• In the winter, Innsbruck offers access to world-class winter sports.
• The city is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and laid-back travellers.

Kitzbuhel

• Kitzbuhel is a world-class ski resort that attracts international travellers for its winter sports and impressive slopes.
• During the summer, there is impressive hiking and other outdoor adventure activities.
• The village also has award-winning restaurants and plenty of shopping opportunities.

Graz

• Graz has one of the largest and most impressive old towns in Europe.
• At the heart of Graz is Hauptplatz, a medieval square surrounded by great restaurants and charming shops.
• Graz is also known for its food scene, with a huge focus on sustainable dining and local ingredients.

Hallstatt

• Hallstatt is a beautiful Austrian city with countless pastel buildings and reasonable restaurants.
• The St. Florian Abbey, with its perfectly preserved library, is a cheaper and less crowded alternative to Melk Abbey.

St. Gilgen

St. Gilgen is another beautiful city to visit, offering similar attractions to Hallstatt but with fewer crowds.

Wachau Valley

In the Wachau valley, you can explore castle ruins such as Ruine Dürnstein and Ruine Hinterhaus, which provide scenic views of the vineyards, the Danube, and the charming towns.

Linz

Burgruine Schaunberg, located near Linz, is a stunning castle with amazing views.

Austrian Alps

• The Austrian Alps cover three-quarters of the country and are a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts.
• From downhill skiing to snowboarding and ice skating, there are plenty of activities to enjoy.
• During the summer months, the Alps offer excellent hiking opportunities and the chance to explore charming villages and historic cities.

Frequently asked questions