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Austria
What to see, when to go and how to travel on a budget – a practical guide from places we’ve explored ourselves.
Austria is an ideal year-round destination – in summer it draws you to alpine lakes, mountains and cities, in winter to top-class ski resorts. It’s close, easy to reach by car or train, and offers reliable service and stunning nature. In this guide you’ll find where to go, when to travel and how to enjoy the trip without unnecessary spending.
We come back to Austria every year. It’s a country close to its neighbours that offers plenty of beautiful places – Vienna, Salzburg and the mountains. Together we most enjoy heading into the cities to taste the local schnitzel, visit a historic landmark or head out into the surrounding nature and mountain views. Our experience is that people here are welcoming and kind, so we happily drop into the local spots where the locals go.
When to go to Austria
Austria has two seasons. For cities, lakes and mountains, May to September is best. The ski season runs December to March. Spring and autumn are ideal for sightseeing without the crowds.
What to see in Austria
What to see in Vienna: 60+ tips for a trip to the Austrian capital 2026
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ReadBest regions & cities
Where to spend your time, depending on what you are after.
Carinthia & lakes
Lake Wörthersee and warm alpine lakes – swimming with mountain views.
Coming soonThree days in Austria
For three days in Austria we love heading to Salzburg and combining city culture with the surrounding nature – such as a visit to the salt mine just outside the city. You’ll get not only the bars, landmarks and atmosphere, but also a pleasant walk in nature. On our list for next time is Eisriesenwelt – the world’s largest ice caves in Werfen.
Salzburg
In Salzburg we first head up to Hohensalzburg Fortress – it’s a pleasant walk and we buy tickets on GetYourGuide to skip the queue. The tour takes 2 – 3 hours depending on how long you linger at each part; we really enjoyed the interactive fortress museum. For lunch and dinner we love the Austrian restaurant Zwettler’s Wirtshaus at Kaigasse 3. Great atmosphere, and the schnitzel is fantastic – we agreed it’s among the best we’ve ever had.
Salt mine, markets or Hangar-7
You can spend the second day strolling through central Salzburg – especially if you come during the Christmas markets – or use it to visit the salt mine, just 20 minutes by car from Salzburg (buy tickets on GetYourGuide). If you like unusual exhibitions with a nice place to sit and a bar, drop by Red Bull Hangar-7, where you’ll see Formula 1 cars and aircraft on display and can enjoy a great drink. The big plus: entry is free and you can stay as long as you like.
Český Krumlov
Salzburg has the advantage of being close to Prague, Český Krumlov, Munich, Innsbruck and many other cities. On the way home we love stopping in Český Krumlov, a historic gem in southern Bohemia. You’ll find the full details in our Český Krumlov guide.
Before you go
Getting around
By car it’s close from Central Europe. For motorways you need a vignette (toll sticker).
- Buy the vignette in advance, only from the official asfinag.at (beware of resellers)
- Some tunnels and mountain roads have separate tolls
- ÖBB trains connect cities quickly and comfortably
Where to stay
In peak season (summer by the lakes, winter in the mountains) book well ahead – prices rise fastest then.
- Guesthouses and apartments outside the centres are usually cheaper
- Check ratings and reviews
Money-saving tips
- Travel outside peak season
- ÖBB regional and family tickets are worth it
- The lunch menu (Mittagsmenü) is cheaper than dinner
How much a trip to Austria costs
Rough prices per person per day (2026). Actual costs depend on the region and season – treat the numbers below as a guide.
Austria articles
What to see in Vienna: 60+ tips for a trip to the Austrian capital 2026
Visit Vienna and check out our 60+ tips on what to see in this metropolis. From museums, zoos, hotels to restaurants and parking. Complete guide here.
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ReadQuestions about Austria
Do I need a motorway vignette for Austria?
Yes. A vignette applies on motorways and expressways. For a car up to 3.5 t it costs €9.60 for 1 day, €12.80 for 10 days, €32 for 2 months and €106.80 for a year. Always buy it only from the official site asfinag.at – many resellers add a fake markup. You can get it digitally (linked to your plate) or as a sticker. Prices change slightly each year; find the current ones at asfinag.at. Some tunnels and mountain roads have separate tolls.
When is the best time to visit Austria?
For cities, lakes and mountains, May to September; for skiing, December to March. Spring and autumn are great for sightseeing without the crowds.
Do they use the euro in Austria?
Yes, the currency is the euro. Cards are accepted almost everywhere; a little cash is handy for mountain huts and small businesses.
How long should I go to Austria for?
2-3 days is enough for Vienna or one lake. Combining a city with the mountains or lakes works best over 4-6 days.
Plan your trip to Austria
Browse our guides and itineraries – so you know exactly where to go and what not to miss.