Lexi Webster
Austria is a country with a rich cultural heritage and a high quality of life. An average day in Austria might involve visiting one of the country's many lakes, such as Lake Hallstatt or Lake Schlegeis, or exploring the mountainous regions, which offer ample opportunities for hiking and winter sports. Austrians value their work-life balance, with businesses generally closing early and remaining shut on Sundays, so you'll find plenty of time to relax in one of Vienna's famous coffee houses or attend a classical music concert. With excellent public transport, a high-quality education system, and a strong sense of national pride, Austria is a great place to live and work, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural sophistication.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Average daily cost for budget travelers | $50 to 73 |
| Average daily cost for mid-range travelers | $100 to 184 |
| Average daily cost for luxury travelers | 464 |
| Average daily food cost | $65 to 67 |
| Average hotel cost in major cities | $100 to $200 |
| Average meal cost in budget restaurants | $10 to $20 |
| Average meal cost for street food | $5 to $10 |
| Coffee or water cost | $2 to $5 |
| Alcoholic beverage cost | $5 to $10 |
| Vienna State Opera or Mozart concert ticket cost | $50 to $100 |
| St. Stephen's Cathedral, Schönbrunn Palace Gardens, and Belvedere Gardens entrance fee | $5 to $10 |
| Internet cost | $5 to $15 per day |
| SIM card cost | $10 to $30 |
| Best time to visit for outdoor activities | June to August |
| Best time to visit for winter sports | December to February |
| Cities | Vienna, Salzburg, Innsbruck, Linz, Munich, Graz, Bratislava, Melk, Krems, Mauthausen, Berchtesgaden, Hallstatt, Prague, Budapest |
| Regions | Tyrol, Wachau Valley, Danube Valley, Bavarian Alps, Italian Dolomites |
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What You'll Learn
Daily expenses
The daily expenses of an average person in Austria can vary depending on their lifestyle, location, and spending habits. Here is a breakdown of some typical daily expenses:
Housing
Housing costs in Austria vary significantly between different cities and districts. In Vienna, a one-bedroom apartment in the central districts can rent for 1,000–1,400 EUR per month, while similar accommodations in the outer districts range from 700–900 EUR. Other major cities like Graz or Salzburg offer somewhat lower prices, with city-centre apartments typically costing 800–1,100 EUR per month. The rental market is highly regulated, often requiring a deposit of three months' rent, and utilities are usually charged separately.
Food
The average daily cost of food in Austria is about $65 (€62) per person when dining out, with previous travellers spending between $26 and $157 per day. Breakfast and lunch generally cost less than dinner, and dining at less expensive restaurants or taking advantage of lunch specials can help reduce food expenses. Grocery shopping in Austria is straightforward, with major supermarkets like Spar, Billa, Hofer (Aldi), and Lidl offering a wide range of products, and local markets providing fresh and affordable produce.
Transportation
Public transportation in Austrian cities is efficient and relatively affordable. In Vienna, an annual pass for all public transport costs 365 EUR (approximately 1 EUR per day), while monthly passes cost 51 EUR. Similar systems exist in other cities, usually at lower prices. Intercity travel through ÖBB (Austrian Federal Railways) offers various discount options for regular travellers. Taxis and ride-sharing services are available but tend to be expensive, with a 5km journey costing around 12–15 EUR.
Utilities
Utility costs in Austria fluctuate seasonally, with higher expenses during the winter months. Monthly utilities, including electricity, heating, water, and garbage collection, for a typical apartment, range from 150–250 EUR depending on usage and season. Internet services are reasonably priced, with high-speed connections typically costing 30–45 EUR per month, and mobile phone plans with decent data allowances ranging from 15–25 EUR per month.
Healthcare
Healthcare in Austria is provided through a mandatory public insurance system, with contributions deducted directly from employees' salaries (approximately 7.65% of gross salary). Most medical services require minimal out-of-pocket expenses for those with public insurance. Private insurance, often chosen by expatriates, typically costs 100–300 EUR per month, depending on age and coverage.
Entertainment and Leisure
Austria offers a range of entertainment and leisure activities to suit different budgets. Free activities, such as exploring the country's beautiful landscapes or visiting free museums and attractions, can be enjoyed without incurring additional expenses.
In summary, while living costs in Austria can be substantial, particularly in cities like Vienna, careful management of expenses, such as choosing affordable housing and transportation options, can help make living in Austria more affordable.
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Transportation
Austria has one of the most highly developed transport networks in the European Union, with an extensive bus and rail network. The country's capital, Vienna, has the best transport system in the country, including buses, trams, trains, a metro, and bike-sharing services. Wiener Linien is the main transport company in Vienna, operating five underground lines and 29 trams, some of which function as night lines. Tickets for Wiener Linien are valid on all streetcars, buses, night buses, subway trains, and commuter trains (S-Bahn) in the Vienna core zone. A single ticket for Wiener Linien costs €2.40 for adults and €1.20 for children, while a flexible 7-day ticket costs €22.60 for a paper ticket and €19.70 for a digital ticket. The Vienna City Card combines transport services with discounts for tourists, starting at €17 for 24 hours.
In addition to Vienna, other large Austrian cities like Graz, Linz, Salzburg, and Innsbruck have their own train and tram networks. Salzburg, for example, has an eco-friendly transport system consisting of electric trams and buses, which run every 10 minutes during the day and less frequently at night. Graz has six tram lines operating from 05:00 to midnight, with intervals ranging from five to 20 minutes.
For long-distance travel within Austria, trains are the primary mode of transportation. The national rail company, ÖBB, operates various international and national routes, including connections to other European cities. ÖBB offers weekly and monthly tickets for all regional public transport networks in Austria, as well as discount cards for seniors, families, and frequent travellers. Another train company, Westbahn, provides routes to smaller towns within the country.
Buses are also an important part of the Austrian transport system, especially for night services and routes to smaller towns. Postbus, an ÖBB subsidiary, operates many regional buses in Austria, offering good-quality service with air conditioning.
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Food and drink
Austrian cuisine is known for its hearty and indulgent dishes, with a generous use of meats and root vegetables. The country's food culture has been influenced by other countries, including Germany, Hungary, and Italy. Austrian meals tend to last for hours, with conversation lingering over sweets, coffee, or an aperitif. This lounge time is referred to as "gemuetlichkeit", reflecting a happy and socially accepted mood. Drinking alcoholic beverages with friends and family while eating is a common practice in Austria.
When it comes to specific dishes, Vienna is famous for its Wiener Schnitzel, a cornerstone of Austrian cuisine consisting of a thin slice of breaded and fried veal or pork. Other classic Austrian dishes include Tiroler Gröstl, a filling dish from the Tyrol region made with sliced potatoes, onions, and bits of beef or pork, typically served with a fried egg on top. Tafelspitz, the country's national dish, is a hearty and comforting option, featuring boiled beef in broth served with minced apples and horseradish. For a sweet treat, Austrians enjoy Apfelstrudel, a flaky pastry stuffed with apples, as well as Linzer Torte, an almond flour cake with cinnamon, cloves, and currant or cherry jam, topped with a lattice pastry. Kaiserschmarrn, a fluffy caramelized pancake served with a side of apple or plum compote, is another popular dessert.
In terms of beverages, Austria has a strong wine tradition, with vineyards deeply rooted in the country's landscape, culture, and daily life. Eastern Austria is particularly known for its exquisite Riesling and Veltliner wines. Beer is also widely consumed, with popular brands such as Stiegl, Ottakringer, Egger Bier, and Zillertal Bier. Zillertal Bier takes a unique approach by aging their brews for at least eight weeks. For a non-alcoholic option, Austrians indulge in specialty coffee, with Vienna being world-famous for its coffeehouses and cafe culture.
Austria also offers a variety of street food and quick dining options. Pretzels, especially the classic salted variety or those filled with cheese or chocolate, are a must-try when in Vienna. Kiachl, a traditional Austrian treat similar to a doughnut pastry, can be enjoyed sweet with cranberry jam or savoury with sauerkraut.
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Accommodation
Austria offers a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. The cost of accommodation can vary depending on factors such as location, season, and the type of accommodation.
For those seeking a luxurious experience, hotels in major cities like Vienna, Salzburg, and Innsbruck can cost upwards of $300 per night. These cities offer convenient access to popular attractions and a vibrant city life. On average, luxury travellers can expect to spend around $464 (€442) per day, including accommodation, fine dining, exclusive excursions, and private transportation.
Mid-range hotels, suitable for families or couples, are also available in these cities, with prices ranging from $100 to $200 per night. For budget-conscious travellers, hostels in Vienna, Innsbruck, and Salzburg provide more affordable options, with prices starting at around $50 per night.
Travellers can save costs by visiting during the off-peak season, such as October, when there are fewer tourists, or taking advantage of the efficient public transportation system. Additionally, free Wi-Fi hotspots and complimentary Wi-Fi services provided by many hotels can help reduce expenses.
For a more comprehensive trip, consider pairing your stay in Austria with neighbouring countries like Germany, Switzerland, or the Czech Republic, offering easy access to cities like Munich, Prague, and Budapest.
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Activities
Austria is a country with something for every type of traveller. From its pastoral landscapes to its lively viticulture and gastronomy, renowned art and music scene, and winter sports, there are plenty of activities to keep you busy. Here is a list of activities to do and see in Austria:
Outdoor Activities
Austria is known for its stunning natural scenery, including the Alps and other mountain ranges, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The best time to visit for outdoor activities is during the summer months, between June and August. Here are some outdoor activities to enjoy:
- Hiking: Explore the mountains, such as the Alps, or the lakes district.
- Boating: Take a boat ride down the Danube River, which passes through scenic destinations like the Wachau Valley wine region, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its medieval architecture and picturesque views.
- Winter sports: During the winter months, between December and February, you can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, and sledding in the snowy Alpine peaks.
- Mountain biking: If you're looking for a more adventurous activity, consider exploring the mountain trails on a bike.
City Exploration
Austria is home to several charming cities that offer a wealth of cultural and historical experiences. Here are some activities to enjoy in the cities:
- Vienna: Spend a few days exploring the capital city, including attractions such as St. Stephen's Cathedral, Schönbrunn Palace Gardens, and the Belvedere Gardens. Enjoy the music scene, cafes, and wine gardens. Take a boat ride on the Danube River or visit the Vienna State Opera.
- Salzburg: Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, Salzburg offers musical experiences, nearby sights, and day trips to places like Berchtesgaden and Mauthausen.
- Innsbruck: Located in the historic Tyrol region, Innsbruck is a great destination for couples and families, offering a mix of history and outdoor activities.
- Linz: Explore the city of Linz, known for its cultural and architectural landmarks.
- Bratislava: Just over the Slovakian border from Vienna, Bratislava offers a surprising and quirky experience with plenty of cultural thrills.
Culinary Experiences
Austria is renowned for its gastronomy, and you can find a range of culinary experiences to suit different budgets. Here are some options:
- Enjoy budget-friendly meals at local restaurants, with prices ranging from $10 to $20 per meal.
- Try street food and convenience store meals for even more affordable options.
- Indulge in the local coffee culture, with a cup of coffee typically costing around $2 to $5.
- Sample the local wine: Consider a day trip to the Wachau Valley wine region or explore the wine gardens of Vienna.
- Splurge on fine dining: For a more luxurious experience, dine in five-star restaurants, with daily food costs averaging around $65 per person.
Transportation
Austria has an excellent transportation system, making it easy to get around the country:
- Take advantage of the outstanding train system, which offers reasonable prices and comfortable rides.
- Use long-distance and regional buses to reach areas not served by rail.
- Explore on foot: Many travellers prefer to wander through neighbourhoods and experience the local culture up close, especially in cities like Vienna and Graz.
- Utilize public transportation in larger urban areas like Vienna and Salzburg, with multi-day passes offering better value than individual tickets.
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Frequently asked questions
Austria has something for every type of traveller. You can visit Vienna, Salzburg, Linz, and Innsbruck. You can also visit the Wachau Valley wine region, a UNESCO World Heritage site. If you're into winter sports, you can ski or snowboard in the Alps. If you're visiting in the summer, you can hike or boat.
This depends on your travel style. A budget traveller can expect to spend around $50 to $70 per day, including accommodation, meals, transportation, and activities. A mid-range traveller can expect to spend around $100 to $150 per day. A luxury traveller can expect to spend around $464 per day.
Austria has an outstanding train system that is both reasonably priced and comfortable. You can also use long-distance and regional buses to get around. Many areas also offer dependable public transportation systems, with some of the best found in Vienna and Salzburg.
