Renting A Car In Austria: Is It Worth It?

Austria is known for its picturesque destinations, from imperial Vienna to the majestic Alps. Many famous mountain and nature destinations are easiest to access by car, and having your own vehicle is also the smoothest way to travel between Austrian cities or even take a quick trip over the border to Switzerland, Italy, or Germany. However, some say that having a car in most European cities is a hassle due to limited parking. Austria is not the cheapest country in Europe for renting a car, but there are ways to reduce costs, such as booking early, picking up a car at the airport, and travelling for multiple days.

Public transport vs car

Austria has a terrific public transport system, and it is easy to get around the country without renting a car. Trains and buses are a good option for travelling between cities, and some sources suggest that having a car in European cities is a hassle due to limited parking.

However, if you are looking to explore smaller towns and the countryside, a car may be a better option. Many famous mountain and nature destinations are easiest to access by car, and having your own vehicle is the smoothest way to travel between Austrian cities. It also gives you the freedom to manage your own time and route.

If you do decide to rent a car, it is important to note that Austria is not the cheapest country in Europe for car rentals. There are several ways to reduce costs, such as booking early, picking up the car at the airport, travelling for multiple days, and choosing a smaller vehicle.

It is also worth noting that an International Driving Permit is required in Austria, and drivers under 25 may incur a young driver surcharge.

Cost of renting a car

The cost of renting a car in Austria depends on several factors, including the type of car, rental company, rental duration, and driver's age. Here is a breakdown of the costs and some important considerations:

Rental Rates

On average, a rental car in Austria costs around $45 per day. However, this price can vary depending on the car type and rental company. Economy cars are typically the most cost-effective option, with rates up to 56% cheaper than other car types. For example, KAYAK users have found rental cars in Austria for $37 or less per day.

Some of the cheapest rental cars in Austria can be found at SURPRICE CAR RENTAL ($5/day), Dryyve ($7/day), and U-Save ($8/day). On the other hand, Sixt, a highly-rated rental company, offers premium vehicles with rates varying based on car category and rental duration.

Age-Related Charges

If you are under 25 years old, expect to pay a young driver surcharge, which can increase the cost of your rental. Additionally, some rental companies have a higher minimum age requirement for certain car categories.

Insurance and Protection Packages

While insurance is not mandatory, purchasing additional coverage can reduce your liability in the event of an accident or theft. Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and theft protection are typically included in the rental rate at a discount. However, these coverages may have deductibles, and the cost can vary depending on the vehicle type and rental company.

Tolls and Parking

When driving on the autobahn or motorways in Austria, you must display a toll sticker (vignette) on your vehicle, which can be purchased at gas stations or borders when entering the country. Rental companies may charge around $10 per day for this toll sticker.

Parking in Austria can also add to your costs. "Blue Zones" designated by blue lines on the road have a three-hour parking limit, and you must purchase and display a parking disc, available at convenience stores, banks, or from electronic machines in the parking area.

Fuel Costs

Fuel prices in Austria are relatively high compared to other countries. The average price of gasoline is approximately 1.25 € (around $1.41) per liter or about $5.40 per gallon. Diesel fuel costs about the same, at 1.25 € (approximately $1.41) per liter or $5.36 per gallon.

One-Way Rentals

If you plan to return your rental car to a different location within Austria, be aware of potential one-way rental fees. These fees can vary depending on the rental company and vehicle type.

In summary, the cost of renting a car in Austria can vary significantly depending on your specific needs and choices. While daily rental rates can be as low as $5, additional costs for insurance, tolls, parking, fuel, and age-related surcharges can increase the overall expense. It is essential to consider your itinerary, budget, and preferences when deciding whether to rent a car in Austria.

Cost of fuel

As of 30 December 2024, the current price of gasoline in Austria is €1.52 per litre or $1.58 per litre. This is higher than the average price of gasoline worldwide, which is $1.14 per litre.

The average price of gasoline in Austria between 19 January 2015 and 30 December 2024 was €1.33 per litre, with a minimum of €0.99 on 18 May 2020 and a maximum of €2.10 on 11 July 2022.

The price of fuel in Austria has fluctuated in recent years. On 10 February 2017, it was €0.659 per litre, and on 4 January 2016, it was €0.489 per litre. In the years that followed, the price of fuel increased. On 16 April 2023, it was €1.40 per litre, and on 19 February 2022, it was €2.152 per litre.

If you are considering renting a car in Austria, it is important to factor in the cost of fuel, which can vary over time. Additionally, keep in mind that some cities in Austria, such as Salzburg and Vienna, are not car-friendly due to limited parking options. Public transportation, including trains and buses, is generally a convenient option for getting around the country.

Car insurance

Car rental insurance varies widely, so it is important to review the information below before making your reservation. Regulations of the country where you rent the car will be in effect for the duration of your rental.

All rental car rates in Austria include fire and third-party liability insurance. Inclusive rates also provide collision and/or theft coverage at an advance purchase discount. You may elect to decline collision and theft coverage. If you plan to take advantage of coverage offered by your credit card, contact your card issuer directly for details. Specific insurance information for your reservation will be printed on your confirmation voucher.

The following guidelines apply to rentals commencing in Austria:

• Fire and third-party liability insurance is mandatory and is included in all rentals. Third-party liability insurance covers damage caused to others in an accident.
• Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and/or theft protection are included in our inclusive rates at a discount. The CDW and theft coverage will carry deductibles depending on the vehicle type. If CDW is purchased at the rental counter, the cost varies depending on the car class. If theft protection is purchased at the rental counter, the cost depends on the car class.
• Personal Accident Insurance (PAI) is available at the rental counter.
• Super CDW may be offered locally to reduce the collision deductible to as low as zero.
• Optional insurance coverage is available with select suppliers only, and rates are subject to change without notice.

Third-party liability insurance is the only compulsory insurance in Austria. The other two types, partial coverage and full coverage, are optional but often advisable. Partial coverage includes damages to your car from events such as break-ins, shattered glass, and damages while parked, such as animal damage, fire, and theft. Full coverage includes all of the above as well as damages to your car after accidents.

The legally prescribed minimum insured sum for passenger cars in Austria is €7.6 million. Of this sum, €6.3 million is set aside for personal injury, and €1.3 million for damage to property. If the actual damage amounts to more than the insured sum, the driver responsible must pay the difference. Many insurance policies allow you to increase the insured sum by paying a higher premium. In some cases, an increased insured sum is offered without the need to pay a higher premium.

Austrian insurance companies work with the Bonus-Malus system, under which claim-free years reduce the charged premium (no-claims bonus). In contrast, if claims are reported, a higher premium will be charged. Usually, if you are at fault for an accident, your own third-party liability insurance will cover the cost of the damage incurred by the other driver, but not your own damage costs. In order to gain compensation for these damages, you require fully comprehensive insurance.

Driving laws

Austria's road rules are similar to those in the rest of the European Union, but there are some quirks to be aware of. Driving is on the right side of the road, and motorists tend to drive reasonably fast, especially on Autobahns. However, strict regulations mean they generally obey road rules.

Driver's License

To drive in Austria, you need a valid driver's license. If you have a foreign license, you can usually drive with this for up to six months, depending on your circumstances. It is best to switch to an Austrian license as soon as possible. If your license is not in German, you must have an international driver's permit, as well as an official translation.

Driving Rules

• Keep your registration papers and driver's license in the car
• Drive on the right and overtake on the left
• Use indicators for overtaking or changing lanes
• All drivers and passengers must wear seat belts
• Maintain a distance of at least 20 meters behind rail vehicles
• Mobile phones can only be used with a hands-free car kit
• Carry suitable warning signs, reflective clothing, and a first aid kit in case of accidents
• Use winter tires (or snow chains) between 1 November and 15 April

Speed Limits

It is important to follow the local speed limits:

• Residential/urban areas: 50km/h unless posted otherwise
• Freeways (Bundesstraße): 100km/h
• Highways (Autobahn): 130km/h

Driving Under the Influence

In Austria, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs carries severe punishments. The maximum permissible blood alcohol level for driving is 0.05%. New drivers with a license for less than two years are subject to a lower limit of 0.01%.

Road Signs

Road signs are usually placed on the right, either next to or above the road. Signs for warnings or prohibitions have white backgrounds and red ages, similar to the rest of Europe.

Traffic Information

You can expect the most traffic in Vienna and other major urban centers. There may also be some traffic on popular mountain roads. ASFiNAG is a good source of up-to-date traffic information, with a website and app that offers live-cam views of road conditions and advice.

Parking

Vienna and other major cities have plenty of short-stay parking zones. You will need to pay for a parking ticket, which usually costs €1.10 for 30 minutes. Be careful where you park, as the signage can be unclear, and you could end up with a fine and your car being towed.

Frequently asked questions