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Austria and Germany are geographically close countries that share a border. They have similar cultures, sights, food, and languages. However, there are some differences between the two countries that may help you decide which is better suited to your travel preferences.
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What You'll Learn
Cost of living
The cost of living in Austria and Germany is comparable, with only slight differences in the costs of food, housing, transportation, and entertainment.
Food
In terms of food, eating out in Austria is relatively cheap compared to Germany. A meal in an inexpensive Austrian restaurant costs around €12, while a three-course dinner for two at a mid-range restaurant costs around €50. In Germany, a casual restaurant meal costs between €10 and €15. Groceries in Austria are also said to be slightly more expensive than in Germany, but prices can vary depending on the region and food habits.
Housing
Housing costs vary significantly between cities in Austria and Germany. For example, renting a one-bedroom apartment in Vienna, Austria's capital, costs an average of €1,000 per month, with utilities (heating, electricity, and water) costing an additional €200 to €300. In comparison, renting a one-bedroom flat in Munich, Germany's most expensive city, costs between €1,200 and €1,500 per month, with utilities costing about €250.
Transportation and Entertainment
Transportation and entertainment costs are not significantly different between the two countries. However, Germany's larger size means that travelling across the country can be more expensive and time-consuming.
Overall Costs
A week in Austria costs approximately €822 per person, while a week in Germany costs about €849. This slight difference in overall cost is likely due to the higher cost of housing and food in Austria.
When deciding between the two countries, it is essential to consider not only the cost of living but also other factors such as cultural preferences, job opportunities, and personal priorities.
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Studying
When it comes to studying in Austria or Germany, there are several factors to consider. Both countries offer a high standard of education, but there are some key differences between the two.
Austria has 74 higher education institutions, including 35 public and private universities, 21 Fachhochschulen (universities of applied sciences), and 14 Pädagogische Hochschulen (teacher training colleges). The Austrian university system is known for being relaxed, with free education and no time limit on degree completion. This means that students can take their time and explore creative and experimental paths. Austria's population is around 8.7 million, and its cities are generally quieter and less polluted than those in Germany. International students make up about 29% of all students in Austria, with almost 29% of those coming from Germany. Tuition fees in public universities are free for EU and non-EU students, but non-EU/EEA students must pay a tuition fee of 726.72-727.72 EUR per semester. There is an option to request enrolment in the national insurance scheme if staying for more than six months. International students are allowed to work, but only if they are from certain nationalities, and there are limits on working hours.
On the other hand, Germany has a larger population and more diverse cities. It offers a wide range of universities, including public and private institutions. While tuition fees in public universities are free for EU and non-EU students, private universities can cost over 20,000 EUR per year. Germany has a financial support program called BAföG, which provides funding for students enrolled in degree courses. This includes a monthly stipend of up to 670 EUR per month. In terms of work options, Germany is more flexible, allowing all international students to work part-time for 240 days or full-time for 120 days per year. Germany is also known for its rich culture and history, offering a vibrant student experience.
Both countries have excellent health systems and are considered safe, with low crime rates. However, petty crimes such as pickpocketing and theft are more common in big German cities. When deciding between the two, it is essential to consider factors such as tuition fees, living costs, work options, cultural aspects, and personal preferences. It is worth noting that Austrians have their own distinct culture and traditions, which should be respected and acknowledged.
In conclusion, both Austria and Germany offer excellent opportunities for international students. Austria may be preferable for those seeking a relaxed academic environment, smaller cities, and free public university education. On the other hand, Germany could be more suitable for those seeking a wider range of university options, financial support, and more flexible work opportunities during their studies. Ultimately, the decision should be based on individual preferences, academic goals, and financial considerations.
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Scenery
Germany and Austria both offer a lot in terms of scenery. Germany is one of the largest countries in Europe and offers a mix of history, art, culture, and modern attractions. The country is known for its efficient transportation system and larger cities spread across the country. Germany has a diverse countryside with wine regions, mountains, rivers, national parks, and historic towns. The country has 16 national parks, including Berchtesgaden National Park in Bavaria, Jasmund National Park in the northeast, Kellerwald-Edersee National Park, and Black Forest National Park. These parks offer a range of landscapes, from mountains to forests, and are popular for hiking, horseback riding, camping, and bird watching. Germany also has popular Christmas markets in cities like Cologne, offering ice skating, curling, warm drinks, and local dishes.
Austria, on the other hand, is known for its breathtaking natural scenery, including the beautiful Alps in the west and historic cities like Vienna, Salzburg, and Innsbruck. The country has a more laid-back atmosphere and a slower pace of life. Austria has 6 national parks, including the oldest, Hohe Tauern National Park, where you can find wildlife such as marmots and golden eagles, as well as waterfalls and glaciers. Other national parks like Donau-Auen and Neusiedler See-Seewinkel offer lowland scenery with lakes and forests. Gesause and Kalkalpen national parks are known for their gorgeous mountain scenery and hiking trails. Austria also has popular Christmas markets in Vienna, Salzburg, and smaller towns, where you can find crafts, food, and festive decorations.
In terms of scenery, both countries offer stunning natural landscapes and a mix of historic and modern attractions. Germany's larger size and diverse countryside give it an edge in terms of variety, while Austria's smaller area is packed with breathtaking beauty, from mountains to quaint villages. The choice between the two countries depends on personal preferences for scenery, with Germany offering a mix of landscapes and efficient city life, while Austria provides a more relaxed atmosphere and a concentration of natural beauty.
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Culture
Austria and Germany are neighbouring countries that share many cultural similarities, but also have some distinct differences. Both countries speak German, but with some differences in vocabulary and pronunciation. For example, a "Pfannkuchen" (pancake) in Germany becomes a "Palatschinken" in Austria, and "whipped cream" becomes "Schlagsahne". Austrians are said to speak a softer and more melodious form of German, which is influenced by their theatre tradition and the country's mountainous landscape.
In terms of humour, Austrians often tell jokes with a straight face, leaving Germans unsure if they are being serious or funny. Germans, on the other hand, are known for their dry and direct sense of humour. Austrians are also perceived to be more social, friendly, and open-minded than Germans, who are seen as more cold and reserved. Austrians are proud of their country and enjoy sharing their culture with visitors, whereas Germans may overestimate their hosting abilities.
There are also differences in the way business is conducted in the two countries. Germans prefer clear hierarchies and strict decision-making processes, while Austrians are more fluid and flexible, often making decisions over a business lunch in a cafe. Germans tend to be more formal, using the "Sie" form to maintain emotional distance, while Austrians are more likely to use the confidential "Du".
When it comes to food, there are some notable differences between Austria and Germany. For example, in Austria, you would ask for "Erdäpfelsalat" when ordering potato salad, while in Germany, you would ask for "Kartoffelsalat". Austrians also tend to dress more casually than Germans, who are known for their formal attire.
Despite these differences, there is a lot of cross-cultural exchange between the two countries, with many German artists and musicians working in Austria and vice versa. Germany, as one of the largest economies in the world, plays a more assertive role in global affairs than Austria. However, Austria is a very popular tourist destination for Germans, offering both winter sports and summer vacations.
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Work
When it comes to work, there are several factors to consider when comparing Austria and Germany. Both countries offer distinct opportunities and have unique cultural attitudes towards work and leisure.
Austria has a strong focus on work-life balance, with a culture that emphasizes leisure and enjoying outdoor activities. This is reflected in practices such as long lunch breaks, early Fridays, and extended holiday periods. Austria's smaller economy presents opportunities in sectors like tourism, healthcare, and education. The country is also known for its stunning natural scenery, which attracts tourists and provides a relaxed atmosphere. Austria is generally welcoming to immigrants, offering various types of visas and allowing international students to work with certain restrictions. If you are an international student, you can only work a limited number of hours per week, which differs depending on your degree level. For example, Bachelor's degree students can work up to 10 hours per week, while Master's students can work up to 20 hours per week. Additionally, Austria's income tax can reach up to 55%, which is higher than Germany's.
On the other hand, Germany has a reputation for its strong work ethic, efficiency, and productivity. Germany's larger and more diverse economy offers more job opportunities for expatriates, especially in fields like engineering, IT, and healthcare. Germany attracts a larger number of international students, providing a more diverse experience. While Germany also values leisure activities, the country's larger cities and higher cost of living in certain areas, such as housing, contribute to a generally higher cost of living compared to Austria. However, Germany offers simplified work regulations for international students, allowing them to work part-time for 240 days or full-time for 120 days per year, regardless of their degree level.
In summary, both countries offer unique opportunities and have distinct work cultures. Austria may be preferable if you prioritize work-life balance, a relaxed atmosphere, and opportunities in tourism, healthcare, or education. Germany, with its strong economy and diverse job market, could be more suitable if you seek a wider range of career options and are attracted to the country's efficient and productive work culture. Ultimately, the decision depends on your industry, career goals, and personal preferences for work-life balance.
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Frequently asked questions
Both countries have a lot to offer international students, but there are some key differences to consider. Germany has more than triple the number of international students compared to Austria, so you're likely to meet more international students and have a broader range of courses to choose from. Germany also allows all international students to work part-time or full-time, whereas in Austria, only international students from certain nationalities are allowed to work, and there are stricter limits on working hours. Student visas are generally processed faster in Austria (2-4 weeks) than in Germany (6-12 weeks).
Germany has more large cities and more professional opportunities. In Austria, you will likely encounter a more relaxed work culture, with a healthy work-life balance, but also a lack of urgency in official matters. Germany has a higher income threshold before you start paying the top rate of tax, and the top rate is lower than in Austria.
Austria is known for its breathtaking natural beauty, especially in the Austrian Alps. Germany also has impressive scenery, including the Black Forest and the Bavarian Forest.
Vienna is celebrated as the world capital of music, with classical music at its heart. Many famous composers, including Mozart, Beethoven and Gustav Mahler, have lived and worked in the city. However, German composers such as Bach and Handel have also shaped classical music history.
Austria has a reputation for cleanliness, with Vienna's clean streets and accurate waste management becoming a landmark. Austrian drinking water is also of excellent quality. While German cities such as Munich and Hamburg share a focus on cleanliness, other cities like Berlin fall short.
