Austria Travel Safety: Is It Safe To Visit?

Austria is considered a safe country to travel to, with normal security precautions recommended. However, it is important to be vigilant, especially in crowded public areas, as petty crimes such as pickpocketing and bag snatching are common, and tourists are often targeted. Additionally, there is a threat of terrorism in Europe, and Austria has experienced terrorist attacks in the past. It is also important to be aware of natural disasters and climate risks, such as avalanches, flash floods, and landslides, especially in alpine regions. Overall, by staying alert and following local authorities' advice, travellers can minimise risks and have a safe and enjoyable experience in Austria.

Crime and personal 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 are common in crowded public areas like tourist hotspots, public transport, and stations. Criminals often work in groups and use distraction tactics to target victims, so it is important to be vigilant and keep your belongings secure.

In Vienna, petty crime is particularly common in the city centre, near St. Stephen's Cathedral, and in and around the major rail stations, the Hauptbahnhof and Westbahnhof. International trains travelling to and from Austria are also high-risk for theft. It is recommended that you do not carry large sums of cash or valuables unnecessarily, and that you keep your passport locked in your hotel safe when sightseeing within Vienna, carrying a photocopy of your passport and another form of ID instead.

Cybercrime, malware attacks, and online extortion are also prevalent in Austria, with criminals compromising public Wi-Fi networks to steal personal data and credit card information. It is advised that you use secure public Wi-Fi networks and are cautious about what information you share on social media.

Drink spiking is another issue to be aware of, especially in popular nightclubs, as this can lead to sexual assault and robbery. Never leave your drink unattended, and stick with people you trust when out in bars and clubs.

There is also a threat of terrorism in Austria, as in the rest of Europe. Terrorists have carried out attacks in several European cities, including Vienna, and further attacks are likely. Targets could include government buildings, schools, transport hubs, tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, shopping centres, and hotels. It is important to always be aware of your surroundings and follow the advice of local authorities.

Terrorism threat

Austria has a threat level of 4, "high", on a 5-step scale. This means that there is a high risk of terrorism in the country, and travellers should be vigilant in public places, following local authority advice and staying away from areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place.

Terrorists have targeted European cities, including Vienna, and are likely to continue doing so. Crowded places such as music and cultural events, festivals, Pride events, tourist areas, Christmas markets, shopping areas, transport hubs, and major sporting events are possible targets.

Terrorists often target places of worship, hotels, clubs, restaurants, cafes, markets, shopping malls, outdoor recreation events, and public transport. They may also target places frequented by foreigners and where large crowds gather. In November 2020, four people were killed in an attack in Vienna.

To protect yourself, be aware of your surroundings, particularly in busy tourist areas. Avoid isolated places after dark and always keep your vehicle and accommodation locked. Leave an area if you think there may be danger, and monitor local media for new safety risks.

Natural disasters

Austria has been hit by a series of extreme weather events in recent years, including flooding and landslides. The country's unique topography and geographical position make it particularly vulnerable to flooding. Its mountainous regions are susceptible to long-lasting and extensive flooding, which can cause severe damage to infrastructure and endanger human lives.

Some of the areas most prone to flooding include the Northern centre territory, where flash flooding is a concern, as well as the East and Northwest regions of Tyrol and Voralberg. Salzburg is another flood hotspot and has been at the epicentre of the last three large-scale flooding events in the country.

The Alpine Lech Valley is also vulnerable to flooding due to land-use changes and the decline of agriculturally used grassland areas, which has increased the potential for damage to residential areas.

In addition to flooding, Austria also experiences landslides and avalanches. Avalanches are a particular concern in the alpine areas of Salzburg, Styria, Tyrol, and Vorarlberg. Several avalanches have been recorded in recent years, including the 2009 Schalfkogel avalanche and the 2016 Geier avalanche, both of which caused fatalities.

To mitigate the impact of these natural disasters, the Austrian government has implemented various measures. They have invested in flood protection, drafted the Waterways Act to regulate flood protection measures, and established a "catastrophe fund" to finance protection infrastructure and compensate households for flood damage. However, despite these efforts, large-scale flooding events continue to occur, causing significant damage to infrastructure.

Health and medical care

Austria has world-class healthcare facilities throughout the country. Medical facilities and staff are generally excellent, and emergency services are available countrywide. Ambulance services are widely available, and local hospitals will provide emergency or life-saving medical treatment regardless of the patient's ability to pay. However, patients are expected to pay the hospital bill and later claim reimbursement from their insurance carrier.

Most doctors speak English, and many hospitals and doctors require payment upfront or proof of adequate health insurance prior to service or admission. It is recommended that you have travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Some medications that are common in the United States are illegal in Austria, even with a prescription. Austria does not allow the importation of any pharmaceuticals that contain narcotic drugs or psychotropic substances. Check with the Austrian Ministry of Health to ensure that your medication is legal in Austria, and always carry your prescription medication in its original packaging, along with your doctor's prescription.

Tick-borne encephalitis is a risk in forested and rural areas, especially during spring and autumn. To protect yourself, use insect repellent, wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing, and check your body for ticks during and after visiting forests. Remove ticks as soon as possible and monitor the site for signs of infection.

Cases of West Nile Virus have been reported in Austria, and measles outbreaks have occurred in the past, so ensure your vaccinations are up-to-date before travelling.

Driving and transport

If you're planning on driving in Austria, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. Firstly, you must be 18 years old to drive in the country. Secondly, the legal blood alcohol limit is low, at 0.05%, and the penalties for drinking and driving are severe. You can expect heavy fines, and local authorities can confiscate your driver's licence immediately. It is also illegal to turn right on a red light, and a blinking green light is equivalent to an amber light. Winter tires are mandatory from 1 November to 15 April, and you must carry snow chains if you're driving in mountainous areas during winter.

When driving on the motorways (autobahn), you must display a current highway toll sticker called a vignette on the inside of your vehicle's windshield. Vignettes can be purchased at petrol stations near the border, as well as at gas stations and convenience stores across Austria. Random vignette checks do occur, and you will be fined if you don't have one.

It is also important to note that some mountain roads may be closed for extended periods due to hazardous winter conditions, snow, ice, or avalanches.

In terms of public transport, Austria has a well-developed and reliable network. All major cities have excellent public transportation systems, and Austrian Federal Railways offers train service to all major towns in the country and major cities in Europe. There is also an extensive network of Österreichische Post bus lines. However, it is important to be vigilant when using public transport, as petty crimes such as pickpocketing and bag snatching commonly occur on buses, trains, and in train stations.

Frequently asked questions