Discover Tailor-Made Austria Vacations

The shoulder seasons of spring and autumn offer pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices, making them ideal for sightseeing. Summer is perfect for activities like hiking and enjoying the countryside, while winter is best for snow sports and Christmas markets. 

During the shoulder seasons of fall and spring, temperatures can be rather pleasant. This makes it the perfect time for exploring cities like Vienna and Salzburg, wine tasting in the Wachau Valley, or hiking amid budding spring flowers or the colours of fall. Part of the allure of these seasons is the bonus of fewer crowds and cheaper prices.

Summer is Austria’s peak tourist season, with warm weather and long daylight hours, making it ideal for outdoor adventures. Exploring the mountains, hiking and biking, swimming in alpine lakes, and attending festivals are at their best during this time. Take in events such as the Salzburg Music Festival or escape to the mountains near Hallstatt to explore the lakes and mountains. 

Winter in Austria is ideal for winter sports like skiing and snowboarding at such world-class resorts as St. Anton and Kitzbuhl. Numerous cities such as Vienna and Salzburg come alive during the Christmas season with lights, festivals, and markets. 

Whatever the time of year, Austria offers up magic. Check out our guide to the Best Time to Visit and let us help you choose the ideal season for your Austrian adventure.

Emerging alongside its politics was its world-renowned artistic output. In particular, Austria has a deep connection to classical music, being the birthplace of composers like Mozart and Strauss and the historic home of figures such as Beethoven. During the 20th century, the country also produced such unique visual artists as Klimt and Schiele. Today, classical-music buffs can immerse themselves in the country’s rich musical heritage at events such as the Vienna Opera Ball or the Salzburg Music Festival. Fans of Austrian art can visit such world-class Viennese museums as the Albertina, the Belvedere, the Kunsthistorisches, and the Leopold.

As an Alpine country, Austria is also renowned for its love of and prowess in a range of winter sports. Both downhill and cross-country skiing are popular pastimes among locals and visitors alike. Skating, sledding, and mountaineering are equally revered.

To experience Austria’s timeless culture book a bespoke vacation with one of our Destination Specialists today.

Across the country, from Vienna’s elegant cafés to Graz’s contemporary farm-to-table restaurants, food reflects both history and innovation, inviting travellers to savour flavours rooted in the land and shaped by centuries of culture.

The national dish, tafelspitz, perfectly embodies Austria’s heartiness—tender beef simmered in broth and served with horseradish and chive sauce. Equally iconic is the wiener schnitzel, golden and crisp, accompanied by parsley potatoes or tangy lingonberry jam. Sausage lovers will find delight in the many würstelstands that line city streets, where frankfurters, bratwurst, and käsekrainer are served late into the night. For dessert, few can resist a slice of sachertorte, a glossy chocolate cake with apricot jam, or the light, torn pancake kaiserschmarrn, best shared with a warm fruit compote.

Modern coffeehouse culture all but started in Vienna, where it remains an important social institution. In opulent old-world cafes as well as modern ones, patrons linger for hours over a “melange” (similar to cappuccino), reading, writing, and engaging in deep conversation. In 2011, the distinctive scene was added to UNESCO’s list of Intangible Cultural Heritage. 

Meals in Austria are as much about atmosphere as taste. Dining is unhurried, and conversation flows as freely as coffee or wine. Punctuated by a toast of prost and the spirit of gemütlichkeit—a sense of belonging and warmth—meals often end with a sip of schnaps or a creamy espresso. Regional wines, particularly Grüner Veltliner and Riesling, pair beautifully with both rustic and refined dishes.

While traditional fare celebrates meat and dairy, most restaurants now cater to vegetarian, vegan, and halal diets, especially in cities. Whether sampling street food or indulging in a multi-course meal, Austrian cuisine remains a journey through history, hospitality, and the joy of slowing down to truly taste.

Whether you’re dreaming of mountain vistas, imperial palaces, or cosy taverns, a bit of preparation ensures your Austrian adventure unfolds effortlessly.

Travellers from the United States or Canada can visit Austria visa-free for up to 90 days, provided their passport is valid for at least six months beyond their stay. Beginning in 2025, visitors must complete the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) form online before arrival—a quick process designed to streamline entry into the Schengen Area. The official currency is the euro (EUR), and while cards are widely accepted, having cash on hand is useful for small cafés, markets, and rural areas.

Getting around is easy thanks to Austria’s efficient public transport network. High-speed trains glide between cities like Vienna, Salzburg, and Innsbruck, offering breathtaking alpine views, while the Viennese metro makes city travel simple. Tipping is modest—around 10 percent at restaurants or rounding up fares in taxis.

Budget-wise, expect daily costs of around USD $250–500 per person, depending on your travel style and season. Shoulder months such as April, May, and October bring gentler prices and fewer crowds. Austria is also one of Europe’s most inclusive destinations—LGBTQ+ travellers will find a welcoming atmosphere and vibrant nightlife, especially in Vienna. With a little planning and the right paperwork, you’ll be ready to explore Austria’s blend of history, art, and alpine serenity with ease.