Ruqayyah Snyder
Austria is a small country in southern Central Europe, known for its breathtaking scenery, charming towns, and romantic cities. The country is heavily wooded, with around 50% of the country covered in forests. It is also home to some of the finest mountains in Central Europe, including the Central Alps, the Verwall Alps, and the Ennstal Alps. Austria's largest city, Vienna, is known for its stunning architecture, from the Vienna State Opera to the Hofburg Palace. Beyond its natural beauty, Austria has a lot to offer, from its famous ski resorts to its delicious fruit brandy, Schnaps. If you're planning a trip to Austria, you'll find plenty of transportation options, from buses and trains to rental cars.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Legal opening times for retail outlets | Monday to Friday 5 am - 9 pm, Saturday until 6 pm |
| Shop opening hours | Most shops open from 9 am to 6 pm (grocery stores from 8 am) and on Saturdays until 1 pm or 5 pm |
| Tourist locations | Allowed longer opening hours |
| Shops in stations and airports | Open during travelling times (often until 11 pm) |
| Stores open on Sundays and public holidays | Food and essential household items, such as bakeries, convenience stores, and pharmacies, with a sales area of less than 400 square meters |
| Stores open on Sundays and public holidays | Stores that are open for cultural or entertainment purposes, such as museums, theatres, and cinemas |
| Stores open on Easter Sunday and Easter Monday | Some restaurants, cafes, shops in tourist areas or larger cities, hospitals, smaller grocery shops, public transportation services, and some museums or tourist attractions |
| Restaurants, hotels, and culture facilities | Only allowed to let in a limited number of customers, who upon entry have to present proof of vaccination, a negative COVID-19 test, or that they were previously infected with the virus |
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What You'll Learn
- Ski resorts remained open during the pandemic
- Shops are generally closed on Sundays and public holidays
- Stores that sell food and essential household items can open on Sundays
- Stores open for cultural or entertainment purposes on Sundays include museums and cinemas
- The hospitality sector has experienced profound changes due to the pandemic
Ski resorts remained open during the pandemic
Austria is known for its ski resorts, which attract millions of tourists each year. The ski season is a major economic driver for the country, bringing in billions of dollars in revenue. However, during the COVID-19 pandemic, the country faced a difficult decision regarding the opening of its ski resorts.
Initially, Austria was reluctant to shut down its winter tourism season, which brings in an estimated $18 billion annually. However, as infections spread, the country eventually closed down hotels and restaurants, limiting skiing to locals and a few lucky foreigners living in the country. While ski lifts remained operational, the resorts themselves became ""ghost towns", with only a handful of skiers and snowboarders taking to the slopes.
The decision to keep the ski lifts open drew criticism from other European leaders, who believed it was foolish and could lead to a wider spread of the virus. Austria's ski resorts, particularly Ischgl, were blamed for being a major source of infection during the first wave of the pandemic. Despite this, the Austrian government defended its decision by arguing that ski lifts are a form of public transportation and that skiing provides preventive health benefits.
During the pandemic, those who were able to ski experienced a rare sense of solitude on the slopes. Skiers were required to wear masks on lifts, and seating inside gondolas was limited to ensure proper ventilation and social distancing. While the resorts were operating well below their capacity, it was still a bittersweet experience for those who were able to enjoy the perfect snow conditions and sunny weather.
The pandemic significantly impacted the usual buzz and lively atmosphere of the ski resorts, with après-ski huts remaining closed and chairlifts sitting empty. The lack of tourists also dealt a heavy blow to the local economy, with businesses and communities relying heavily on the annual influx of visitors. Overall, while the ski resorts technically remained open during the pandemic, the experience was vastly different from the typical bustling and vibrant season that Austria is known for.
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Shops are generally closed on Sundays and public holidays
In Austria, shops are generally closed on Sundays and public holidays. However, there are some exceptions to this rule. For example, shops that sell food and essential household items, such as bakeries, convenience stores, and pharmacies, are allowed to operate on Sundays and public holidays, provided they have a sales area of less than 400 square meters. Additionally, stores that are open for cultural or entertainment purposes, such as museums, theatres, and cinemas, are also permitted to open during these times. Despite this, these exceptions are subject to strict rules regarding opening hours and conditions for operation. Generally, these stores are only allowed to be open for a limited time, typically between 6 a.m. and 7 p.m. Employees who work during these periods are entitled to extra pay or a compensatory day off.
While Sunday is not an official holiday in Austria, it is treated as one, with most shops and businesses closed. This tradition dates back to ancient Rome, when Emperor Constantin introduced Sunday as a day for people to attend church. Today, it serves as a rest day to promote a healthy work-life balance for Austrians. Although shops are mostly closed on Sundays, there are some exceptions, such as supermarkets at train stations and minimarkets at gas stations, which are permitted to sell groceries. Additionally, some bakeries with open coffee shops can also be found.
During public holidays in Austria, most businesses are closed, and employees are entitled to holiday pay if the holiday falls on a regular working day. However, if a public holiday occurs on a typical day of rest, such as a Sunday, it is not considered a paid holiday. Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, and Easter Monday are often celebrated as holidays in Austria, along with Christmas and New Year's Eve, although these days are not officially recognised as national holidays. Each province also has a national holiday dedicated to their patron saint, which is only celebrated within that specific province.
It is worth noting that opening hours may vary between stores and between rural and urban areas. Therefore, it is always a good idea to check the opening hours of specific shops, restaurants, or services before planning a visit, especially during Sundays and public holidays when options may be more limited.
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Stores that sell food and essential household items can open on Sundays
In Austria, shops are usually closed on Sundays and public holidays. However, there are a few exceptions to this rule. Stores that sell food and essential household items, such as bakeries, convenience stores, and pharmacies, are allowed to operate on Sundays, provided their sales area is less than 400 square meters. These smaller stores, often connected to fuel stations or public transit hubs, ensure that residents have access to essential goods even when larger supermarkets and grocery stores are closed.
Bakeries are a notable example of food retailers that are commonly open on Sundays in Austria. You can expect to find fresh rolls, croissants, and even chocolate muffins at these establishments. Additionally, some supermarkets near popular tourist areas or train and fuel stations may also be open, although they may offer a reduced range of products to comply with the law.
Convenience stores at gas stations can be a convenient option for purchasing food and drinks on Sundays. These stores often have extended opening hours and can be a good alternative for late-night shopping. However, it is worth noting that prices at these convenience stores may be higher than at regular supermarkets.
While these exceptions provide some flexibility, the regulations for opening hours in Austria are generally strict. Employees who work on Sundays and public holidays are entitled to extra pay or a compensatory day off. Overall, the tradition of keeping shops closed on Sundays is deeply valued in Austria, with many Austrians prioritising family, culture, nature, and rest on this day.
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Stores open for cultural or entertainment purposes on Sundays include museums and cinemas
In Austria, stores are usually closed on Sundays by law. However, there are exceptions for cultural and entertainment venues, including museums and cinemas, which are often open.
Museums in Austria are typically open on Sundays, providing an opportunity for locals and tourists alike to explore the country's rich cultural heritage. Many museums in Austria showcase a diverse range of exhibitions, from art and history to science and technology.
Cinemas are also usually open on Sundays in Austria. Going to the movies is a popular pastime for Austrians, and many cinemas offer a mix of Hollywood blockbusters and independent films. Some cinemas may also host special events or film festivals on Sundays, providing a unique cultural experience.
In addition to museums and cinemas, some other entertainment venues may be open on Sundays. For example, bowling alleys, arcades, and theatres may operate on this day. These venues offer interactive and engaging experiences, making them popular choices for families and groups of friends looking for a fun activity.
While most stores are closed on Sundays in Austria, there are specific types of businesses that are allowed to operate, including supermarkets in train stations and mini-markets at gas stations. These shops provide essential goods and services to those who may have been unable to shop during the week. However, the selection of items available in these stores may be limited by law. Additionally, bakeries and restaurants may be open, although opening hours vary between rural and urban areas. For those seeking a more active Sunday, Vienna offers walking tours, bike rentals, and boat rides along the Danube. Finally, employees who work on Sundays and public holidays are entitled to extra pay or a compensatory day off.
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The hospitality sector has experienced profound changes due to the pandemic
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on the hospitality sector in Austria, causing severe disruptions to businesses and significant changes in operations. During the initial lockdown in spring 2020, overnight stays in Austria dropped by a staggering 100%, dealing a heavy blow to the tourism industry, which contributes significantly to the country's economy. A second lockdown in November 2020 led to the closure of accommodation establishments and restaurants, causing a further decline in overnight stays. The pandemic has also accelerated existing trends, such as the rise of telework and the push for digital transformation, which has increased the demand for digital skills.
The hospitality sector, particularly tourism, has been one of the hardest-hit industries by the pandemic. With travel restrictions and social distancing measures in place, tourist hotspots in Austria transformed into ghost towns. Ski resorts, which once buzzed with activity, saw a significant drop in visitors, with only locals within driving distance able to enjoy the slopes. The pandemic also highlighted the reliance of the industry on migrant workers, who were disproportionately affected by layoffs, salary reductions, and income loss.
The pandemic has forced businesses in the hospitality sector to adapt and implement new measures to ensure survival. To restore confidence in travel, hotels and restaurants had to adhere to strict safety and health protocols, including social distancing and enhanced sanitation procedures. Additionally, with the rise of remote work, hotels began offering tailored packages to cater to digital nomads, providing extended stays with enhanced amenities like dedicated workspaces and high-speed internet.
Furthermore, the pandemic accelerated the adoption of digital technologies in the hospitality sector. Businesses invested in digital infrastructure, improved their online presence, and offered contactless services to meet changing consumer preferences and expectations. The integration of technology also enhanced operational efficiency, with automated check-ins, digital menus, and online booking systems becoming more prevalent.
While the pandemic caused significant challenges, it also presented opportunities for innovation and growth in the hospitality sector. Businesses that embraced digital transformation, adapted their business models, and prioritized the safety and well-being of their guests were better positioned to navigate the crisis and emerge more resilient. As the industry continues to recover, there is a heightened focus on sustainability, personalized experiences, and leveraging technology to enhance the guest experience.
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Frequently asked questions
Retail outlets are open Monday to Friday from 5 am to 9 pm and on Saturdays until 6 pm. However, most shops are open from 9 am to 6 pm (8 am for grocery stores) and on Saturdays until 1 pm or 5 pm.
Shops in stations and airports are often open until 11 pm.
On Sundays and public holidays, only certain categories of stores are allowed to operate, including:
- Food and essential household items stores, such as bakeries, convenience stores, and pharmacies, with a sales area of less than 400 square meters
- Stores open for cultural or entertainment purposes, such as museums, theatres, and cinemas
During the COVID-19 pandemic, ski resorts in Austria remained open, but with hotels and restaurants closed.
Austria is also home to many markets, including Christmas markets, and farmers' markets.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Austria implemented lockdowns and social distancing measures, including mandatory mask-wearing.
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the local gastronomy sector, with many establishments experiencing closures and reduced tourism. The pandemic has also affected the quality of life of the Austrian population, particularly women and young people.
