Austria: Safe Haven For Travelers?

Austria is considered a safe country to travel to, with normal security precautions recommended. The country has one of the lowest crime rates in Europe, and violent crime is rare. However, tourists should be vigilant in public places, especially in crowded areas, on public transport, and in areas popular with tourists, as petty crimes such as pickpocketing and bag snatching are common. Terrorism is also a potential threat, with targets including tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, shops, and hotels. Additionally, Austria has strict laws regarding drug possession and face coverings, and land border checks are common.

Terrorism threats and attacks

Terrorist attacks in Austria cannot be ruled out. While there were no terrorist attacks in Austria in 2022, there was a 2020 attack by an ISIS sympathizer in Vienna. The terrorist carried out the attack alone but received encouragement and support from other ISIS sympathizers. Six suspected accomplices were charged and their trial began in October 2022.

Austrian authorities monitor an estimated 100 people who returned to Austria from conflict zones. About 70 of them are believed to still be in the country, and seven are serving prison sentences. The government estimated that about 100 AustrianFTFs were still in conflict zones. Overall, Austrian officials note that “Islamist terrorist” mobilization substantially declined after 2015.

Austria has passed new anti-terrorism legislation regarding the imprisonment of those convicted twice for terrorism offenses. The country has also implemented reforms that replaced the Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution and Counterterrorism, Austria’s key counterterrorism agency within the Interior Ministry, with the Directorate for State Security and Intelligence.

Austria is a member of the Financial Action Task Force and contributes to the development of international standards to counter the financing of terrorism. The country is also strongly committed to ensuring that national authorities take action to combat money laundering and terrorist financing. Austria's national action plan on "Extremism Prevention and Deradicalization" calls for improved networking among law enforcement agencies and civil society institutions, extension of exit programs for individuals radicalized to violence, and better "transition management" through the decoupling of terrorism convicts from their terrorist communities, among other measures.

The U.S. Department of State has issued a Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions travel advisory for Austria. It is recommended that travelers to Austria enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts and make it easier to be located in an emergency. It is also advised to follow the Department of State on social media, review the Country Security Report for Austria, and prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations.

Petty crime and theft

Austria has one of the lowest crime rates in Europe, and violent crime is rare. However, tourists should be aware of the risk of petty crime and theft, particularly in crowded public areas and tourist hotspots.

Pickpocketing and bag snatching are common occurrences in Austria, especially in busy areas such as pedestrian shopping districts, restaurants, cafes, and on public transportation. International night trains travelling to and from the country are also popular targets for thieves. To protect yourself, keep your belongings secure at all times and be extra vigilant in crowded places and at night.

When using ATMs, be cautious to avoid card fraud, especially in Vienna. Pay close attention when others are handling your cards, use ATMs in well-lit and secure locations, avoid unusual card readers, and cover the keypad when entering your PIN.

It is also important to keep your passport and other travel documents secure. Do not leave bags unattended, and consider locking your passport in a hotel safe when sightseeing within Vienna. Carry a photocopy of your passport and a secondary form of ID, such as a driver's license, with you at all times.

Natural disasters and climate

Austria belongs to the central European transitional climatic zone, and its climate is influenced by the Alps, which are situated in a transitional area of the Mediterranean, the Atlantic Ocean, and continental Europe. The country can be divided into three climatic zones. The eastern part of Austria has a continental Pannonian climate, with a mean temperature for July usually above 19°C and annual rainfall often less than 800 mm. The central Alpine region has an Alpine Climate, characterised by high precipitation, short summers, and long winters. The remaining part of the country belongs to the transitional central European climatic zone, which is characterised by a wet and temperate climate.

The prevailing wind in Austria is from the west, and humidity is highest in the west, diminishing towards the east. The western regions of the country have an Atlantic climate with a yearly rainfall of about 40 inches (1,000 mm), while the eastern regions have less precipitation, influenced by the more continental type of climate.

In the lowlands and hilly eastern regions, the temperature ranges from about 30 °F (−1 °C) in January to about 68 °F (20 °C) in July. In regions above 10,000 feet (3,000 meters), the temperature range is between about 12 °F (−11 °C) in January, with a snow cover of approximately 10 feet (3 meters), and about 36 °F (2 °C) in July, with roughly 5 feet (1.5 meters) of snow cover.

Austria has experienced several natural disasters in recent years, including:

• 2024 Central European floods
• 2024 European floods
• 2023 Slovenia floods
• 2016 Geier avalanche
• 2009 Schalfkogel avalanche
• 1999 Pentecost flood

Health and safety

Austria has one of the lowest crime rates in Europe, and violent crime is rare. However, tourists should be aware of petty crimes such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, which can occur in crowded public areas like pedestrian shopping areas, restaurants, cafés, and public transportation. It is recommended to always carry your belongings, including your passport, on your person and be vigilant of your surroundings.

Terrorism is a threat in Europe, and Austria is no exception. Terrorists have targeted European cities, including Vienna, and may target crowded places such as music and cultural events, festivals, tourist areas, transport hubs, and other public areas. It is advised to be vigilant in public places, follow local authorities' instructions, and report any suspicious activities or items to the police.

When visiting alpine areas in Austria, it is important to monitor local weather conditions and follow the advice of local authorities. Avalanches, flash floods, and mudslides can occur, so it is recommended to stick to marked slopes and trails when skiing, hiking, or mountain climbing. Additionally, ticks carrying encephalitis can be found in forests and rural areas, so it is important to take precautions such as using insect repellent and checking your body for ticks.

Austria has world-class healthcare facilities, and medical services are available throughout the country. However, medical care can be expensive, so it is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical evacuation and hospital stays. Most doctors speak English, and many medications that are common in the United States are illegal in Austria, even with a prescription. Always carry your prescription medication in its original packaging, along with your doctor's prescription.

When driving in Austria, be aware of the strict traffic laws and road safety regulations. It is illegal to use a handheld cell phone while driving, and you must display an "autobahn vignette" highway tax sticker on your vehicle. Winter tires are mandatory during certain months, and you may need to carry snow chains if driving in mountainous areas.

Local laws

Austria is considered a safe country to travel to, with a low rate of serious crime. However, it is important to be aware of local laws to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Here are some key points regarding local laws and regulations in Austria:

Identification and Face Coverings:

It is mandatory to carry a valid form of identification, such as a passport, at all times in Austria. Keep a photocopy or digital copy of your passport secure in case of loss or theft. Additionally, it is illegal to cover your face in public places, and failure to comply can result in heavy fines.

Drug Possession and Trafficking:

Austria has strict laws regarding illegal drugs. Possessing, using, or trafficking illegal substances can lead to severe penalties, including heavy fines and imprisonment. Even small amounts of drugs can result in prison sentences.

Driving and Transportation:

If you plan to drive in Austria, there are several important regulations to keep in mind. Here are the key points:

• An international driving permit or a German translation of your driver's license is required if you are not an Austrian resident.
• Winter tires are mandatory from November 1 to April 15.
• All vehicles must carry high-visibility vests, warning triangles, and other specified safety equipment.
• Using a handheld cell phone while driving is prohibited.
• Right turns at red lights are not allowed.
• Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is strictly prohibited and can result in heavy fines and license confiscation. The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.05%.
• Autobahn vignette (highway toll sticker) is required for driving on motorways, and random checks are conducted.

Drone Operation:

Austria has regulations in place for recreational and commercial drone use. You must register as a drone operator with the Austrian authorities, and certain areas are restricted or off-limits for drone flights. Failure to comply may result in fines and confiscation of your drone.

Visa and Entry Requirements:

Austria is part of the Schengen area, which allows visa-free travel for stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period for citizens of many countries. However, always check the specific entry and exit requirements for your country of origin, as these can change. Additionally, all visitors must carry their passports when crossing borders, including within the Schengen area.

Medical Insurance and Medication:

Austria has excellent medical facilities, but medical care can be expensive. Ensure that you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical evacuation and hospital stays. If you require specific medications, always carry them in their original packaging, along with a doctor's prescription. Check with the Austrian Ministry of Health to ensure your medication is permitted in the country.

COVID-19 Requirements:

At the time of writing, there are no COVID-related entry requirements for U.S. citizens. However, COVID-19 tests and vaccines are widely available in Austria, and costs may need to be covered upfront by visitors.

Frequently asked questions