Austria holidays

All your questions about entry requirements, visas, passports or health information are answered on our Travel Advice page.

When visiting Austria, you'll need two-pin European style plugs, known as Type C or Type F. Most UK electrical devices will require an adapter. While some hotels may have UK-style sockets, it's best to bring adapters for all your devices.

Traditional Austrian cuisine is widely available throughout the country. In Vienna, try classic dishes at historic cafes like Café Central or restaurants in the Innere Stadt. In smaller towns, look for family-run Gasthäuser for authentic local specialties. Don't miss trying Wiener Schnitzel, Tafelspitz, or Apfelstrudel during your visit.

Tipping is common in Austria, but not mandatory. In restaurants, it's customary to round up the bill or add about 5-10% for good service. For other services like taxis or hotels, rounding up or giving a small tip is appreciated but not expected.

Austria is a landlocked country, so it doesn't have coastal beaches. However, you'll find beautiful lakeside beaches at places like Wörthersee, Attersee, and Mondsee. These lakes offer crystal-clear waters and stunning Alpine scenery for a refreshing summer experience.

For Austria, pack comfortable walking shoes for exploring cities and hiking trails. Bring layers for variable weather, including a waterproof jacket. Don't forget sunglasses, sunscreen, and a daypack for sightseeing. Include smart-casual outfits for dining in restaurants.

Austria's nightlife varies by city. Vienna offers a mix of trendy bars, classical concerts, and clubs. Innsbruck and Salzburg have lively student scenes with pubs and music venues. In ski resorts, après-ski bars and cosy lounges are popular, with many places closing earlier than in other European countries, typically around midnight or 1am.

When visiting Austria, greet with "guten tag" or "grüß gott" in more traditional areas, and use formal titles until invited otherwise. Punctuality is important, and quiet behaviour is expected in public spaces. At religious sites, cover shoulders and knees, and remove hats when entering churches.

When shopping in Vienna, you'll find luxury brands on Karntner Strasse and independent boutiques in the Neubau district. Innsbruck's Maria-Theresien-Strasse is great for both international and local shops. For traditional crafts and souvenirs, we recommend visiting local markets in towns across the country.