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Austria is a backpacker's dream, offering a range of geographical, cultural, and sporting experiences. The country is open to backpackers all year round, but the activities you can do will depend on the season. In winter, you can ski and snowboard at resorts like Pitztal, Sölden, Stubai, and Hintertux, while summer is the perfect time for hiking in the mountains. Austria is home to the largest portion of the Alps of the eight alpine countries, covering 60% of the country's territory. The mountain area is dotted with trails of different difficulty levels and over 500 mountain huts. The 6-stage Karwendel High Trail is a hut-to-hut hike in the Karwendel Mountains of Tyrol, accessible by public transit from Innsbruck or Seefeld in Tirol, Austria, or Munich in Germany. The Emperor's Crown is another popular hiking trail, a 5-stage, 65-km circuit of the Wilder Kaiser massif in Tyrol. For those who enjoy water sports and bathing, there are crystal-clear mountain lakes surrounded by snow-capped peaks. Austria is also a gourmet's delight, with unique specialties like Sachertorte and Mozartkugeln. The country's wine regions, such as Burgenland and Lower Austria, are also worth visiting. When it comes to transportation, Austria has a reliable rail system, and buses are a more economical option for long-distance travel. So, whether you're exploring the historic old towns of Graz and Linz, admiring the Baroque architecture of Salzburg, or taking in the grandeur of Vienna, Austria has something for every backpacker.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Season | Austria is open for backpackers year-round, but the best time to visit is during summer. The hiking season in Austria lasts from mid-June to mid-late September. |
| Transport | The Austrian Rail system is run by ÖBB, with a punctuality score of 97%Trains are comfortable, fast, and reasonably priced.</co: 10> Buses are a cheaper alternative for long-distance travel. |
| Accommodation | There are over 500 mountain huts available for accommodation during hiking trips. |
| Food | Most mountain lodges serve traditional Austrian food. Breakfast is usually standardized, but lunch and dinner options vary. |
| Activities | Austria offers plenty of opportunities for hiking, skiing, snowboarding, cycling, water sports, and bathing. |
| Attractions | Attractions include the Stephansdom cathedral in Vienna, the historic old towns of Graz and Linz, the picturesque city of Salzburg, and the Grossglockner mountain in Carinthia. |
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What You'll Learn
Getting to Austria: transport options and costs
Austria is a landlocked country in central Europe, with an extensive and efficient transport system. The country is easily accessible by plane, train, bus, or car.
By Plane
Austria has three main airports: Vienna, Salzburg, and Innsbruck, all of which are easily connected to the country's railway network. Vienna Airport is the main flight hub for Eastern Austria, with connections to and from numerous cities worldwide. For Western Austria, it may be more convenient to fly into Zurich or Munich and take a connecting train to your destination in Austria. Vienna Airport is connected to the city centre by the City Airport Train (CAT), which takes just 16 minutes. The rapid transit train (S-Bahn) is another option, taking around 25 minutes from Wien Mitte and running every 30 minutes.
By Train
Austria's rail network is one of the most expansive in Europe, with over 5,000km of track connecting the nine federal states. The national operator, ÖBB, has a reputation for great service, with a punctuality rate of 97%. Rail travel is a popular choice for both locals and tourists, with comfortable and punctual trains. High-speed trains connect major cities within Austria and to neighbouring countries. The Railjet (RJ) trains are ideal for travelling across the country, while the faster Xpress (RJX) stops only at main city stations. The Semmering Railway, running southwest from Vienna towards Graz and Klagenfurt, is a favourite route for its picturesque scenery.
By Bus
Buses are an important part of the Austrian transport system, offering night services and routes to smaller towns. The national bus company, Postbus, a subsidiary of ÖBB, often combines bus travel with rail transfers to reach more remote areas. For international bus routes, FlixBus offers connections to and from Austria.
By Car
Austria's highways offer scenic road trips, such as the Romantic Road to the vineyards of Wachau Valley and the Grossglockner High Alpine Road through the Hohe Tauern National Park. However, when driving on motorways, a Vignette toll sticker is required, which can be purchased physically or digitally. Short-term parking zones across the country are pay-and-display.
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Where to stay: accommodation options and prices
Austria is not a cheap destination, but it is not more expensive than other European countries. During the high season, prices can rise in tourist resorts, but that is a common occurrence worldwide. You should budget between 35 and 60 Euros per day to cover all your expenses, including museums, and live comfortably.
If you are backpacking in Austria, hostels are the most affordable accommodation option in bigger cities. They are clean, and even the shared bathrooms are well-maintained. Hostels are also great places to meet other backpackers. Websites like HostelPass offer discounts of up to 20% on hostels across Europe. Camping is another budget-friendly option, with campsites and basic cabins available for as low as €20 EUR ($23 USD) per night for two people, and closer to €25 EUR ($29 USD) during peak season. Large campsites on the outskirts of cities like Vienna are a good choice if you want to save money. If you prefer more luxurious accommodations, glamping sites are also available in Austria.
Public transportation in Austria is safe and reliable, making it easy to get around without the need for a car. The Austrian Rail system, ÖBB, is one of the most reliable in Europe, with a punctuality score of 97%. Trains are comfortable, fast, and reasonably priced. They are also the best way to reach high-altitude destinations, as cable cars and gondolas are often used to access these areas. If you plan to take multiple train journeys, consider purchasing a Rail Pass from Eurail to save money. Alternatively, you can use the Bundesbus for local trips on a tight budget, although it is not recommended for long-distance travel.
For those who want more flexibility, renting a car is an option. Websites like DiscoverCars allow you to compare offers from major car rental agencies in the region. ShareNow is another option, a car-sharing app that allows you to rent a car for as little as 2 minutes or up to 2 weeks within Vienna.
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Food and drink: culinary delights and traditional dishes
Austria has a lot to offer food-wise, from traditional dishes to cakes and pastries, with Vienna, Graz, and Linz offering historic old towns and funky cafes.
Austria is famous for its Wiener Schnitzel, a classic Austrian recipe with roots in Venice. The Austrian version is traditionally made with veal, but chicken and pork are also popular. Krautfleisch is another ragout-style Austrian dish, made with pork and sauerkraut. Krautspatzle is a similar dish, consisting of small noodles and cabbage.
Austria also has a variety of sausages, such as Frankfurter, Käsekrainer, and Burenwurst. The Bosna or Bosner, a spiced bratwurst in a hot dog roll, is an integral part of the menu at Austria's sausage stands. Most Austrian sausages contain pork, and the country also has many dishes using offal and other parts of the pig, such as the snout and trotters.
Austrian cakes and pastries are also well-known, with the Sachertorte being one of the most famous. This chocolate cake with apricot jam is traditionally eaten with whipped cream. The Linzer Torte, a shortcake pastry filled with redcurrant jam, is another classic, said to be the oldest cake in the world. Other favourites include the caramel-flavoured Dobostorte and the Esterhazy Torte, a delicate layered cake. Austrian pastries also include the Punschkrapfen, a cake filled with cake crumbs, nougat chocolate, and apricot jam, soaked in rum.
For those with a sweet tooth, there are also traditional Austrian funnel cakes, known as Strauben, which are made with a simple batter of flour, egg yolks, salt, and white wine, fried until golden brown and dusted with powdered sugar. Apfelradln, or "apple wheels," are another sweet treat, with slices of apple dipped in batter and fried. Zillertaler Krapfen, a speciality from the Zillertal Valley, features a savoury grey cheese filling in a crispy shell.
Austria also has a vibrant wine scene, with regions such as Burgenland and Lower Austria within easy reach of Vienna. You can sample reds, whites, and Sekt, Austria’s sparkling wine.
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Activities: hiking, biking, skiing and more
Austria is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with its breathtaking landscapes, majestic mountains, and sparkling lakes. Here are some activities to consider when backpacking in Austria:
Hiking
Austria is a hiker's paradise, with its majestic mountains, lush valleys, and pristine nature. The country encompasses about 29% of the Alps, which cover 60% of its territory. The Austrian Alps offer a vast network of hiking trails, ranging from comfortable to challenging. The hiking season typically lasts from mid-June to mid-late September.
One popular option is hut-to-hut hiking, where hikers can explore the Alps while staying in mountain huts along the way. The Stubaier Höhenweg trail in Tyrol is a demanding yet scenic high-altitude hike that takes you through stunning glaciers. The Hohe Tauern National Park is another favourite, with its scenic "normal route" to the Grossglockner summit and over 300 three-thousanders to explore. For a challenging hike, consider the Ötscher trail in southwestern Lower Austria, which features deep gorges, wide valleys, and a diverse range of flora and fauna.
Biking
Austria also offers an extensive network of cycling paths that cater to all skill levels. The Mur cycle path combines historic towns, cultural landmarks, and culinary delights. The Tauern cycle trail, stretching 300 km at the foot of the Hohe Tauern mountain range, offers breathtaking scenery alongside the Salzach and Saalach rivers. The Königstour Bike connects the beautiful valley towns of Maria Alm, Dienten, and Mühlbach. The Schladming-Dachstein bike region caters to all ages with its varied programme, including uphill flow trails and junior trails.
For a challenging mountain bike experience, the Alps offer a 147 km trail through spectacular landscapes. The Murau region provides a varied route network, fun downhills, and magnificent views. Southern Styria boasts vineyards and three scenic bike routes that showcase the region's beauty. The Hochsteiermark region has cycle routes for all ages and skill levels, with options to push your limits or simply enjoy the scenery.
Skiing
Austria is renowned as one of the best backcountry skiing destinations in Europe. The country offers breathtaking alpine scenery, with snow-capped forests, mountains, and peaceful glacial lakes. The heavy snowfall and cold temperatures during winter create ideal skiing conditions. The region around Lake Achensee in Tyrol is a well-known cross-country skiing centre.
Austria's villages, towns, and cities also offer a rich cultural experience. The capital, Vienna, is a cultural hub with museums, art galleries, parks, and music halls. Other cities like Salzburg and Innsbruck charm visitors with their historical and architectural delights.
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Seasonal considerations: what to do and when to go
Austria is open for backpackers year-round, but the activities you can enjoy will depend on the season.
Spring and Summer
Spring and summer are excellent times to go backpacking in Austria. If you visit between late winter and early spring, expect cold temperatures. In summer, you can hike in the mountains, swim in crystal-clear mountain lakes, and enjoy the blooming trees and flowers. However, summer is the peak season, so expect higher prices for flights and accommodation, and prepare for crowds in popular destinations. If you're looking for a quieter experience, consider visiting in spring instead.
The hiking season in Austria typically lasts from mid-June to mid-late September. During this time, you can explore the Austrian Alps, which cover 60% of the country's territory. There are numerous hut-to-hut hiking trails, such as the 6-stage Karwendel High Trail in the Karwendel Mountains of Tyrol, that offer comfortable and accessible hiking experiences with stunning views.
For music lovers, the Salzburg Festival takes place during the summer. It is one of the world's biggest and best classical music festivals, featuring drama, concerts, and opera over five to six weeks.
Autumn
Although not mentioned as frequently as spring and summer, autumn in Austria is likely to offer pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds, making it an ideal time for hiking and exploring without the peak season prices.
Winter
Winters in Austria are cold and perfect for winter sports like skiing and snowboarding. The Austrian Alps, as well as other mountainous regions, offer plenty of opportunities for these activities. St. Anton, for example, is known for its challenging slopes and off-piste opportunities. If you're looking for a more relaxed winter activity, you can visit the Christmas markets in Vienna or explore the picturesque Baroque city of Salzburg.
No matter the season, Austria has much to offer backpackers, from geographical marvels and sporting activities to cultural highlights and culinary delights.
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Frequently asked questions
Austria is a great country to explore by backpack, with its mix of cities, mountains and lakes. The capital, Vienna, is a must-see, with its ornate architecture and summer pop-up bars and clubs on the Danube. The cities of Graz, Linz and Salzburg are also popular, with their historic old towns, funky cafes and Baroque architecture. If you're looking for a smaller town, try St. Anton, a picturesque summer spot that's also a great base for skiing in the winter.
Austria is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with its mountains, lakes and extensive rail network. The Austrian Alps make up 60% of the country's territory, offering plenty of opportunities for hiking and skiing. The country also has a vibrant wine scene, with beautiful wine regions such as Burgenland and Lower Austria within easy reach of Vienna.
The essentials for a backpacking trip to Austria include hiking shoes or boots, a waterproof jacket, and other adventure equipment. It's also important to be prepared for the weather, as the summer months can be busy and crowded, while the winters are cold and ideal for winter sports.
