Travel to and around Austria
Wanting to visit Austria? Here are my top tips and info on travel to Austria; from flying to driving. As well as how to travel around Austria, either by public transport or car...
Flying to Austria
There are several international airports in Austria. Vienna, Salzburg, and Innsbruck are the three major airports, although there are also international flights available to Linz and Graz. Vienna's Schwechat International Airport also offers connections to Asia and the Middle East.
With the flight time from London to Austria is only 2 hours on average, it is an ideal destination for a short break-away!
Public Transport
Think about your carbon footprint and try taking the more environmentally-friendly route of travel. It can be a slower way to get around, but take that bit of extra time to have a complete break! And for a city break in Austria, I would definitely recommend you to use public transport all the way...
Travel by Train and Rail
If traveling from central Europe then taking the train can be a no-brainer. You can also enjoy the picturesque scenery whilst on the train.
- InterRail (for European citizens or residents) To cover all of Austria by train, then look at getting the Interrail Country Pass for unlimited travel by train in Austria for either 3, 4, 5, 6, or 8 non-consecutive days of your choice within 1 month. An adult ticket (28 years +) for 3 days within 1 month is €146. If you're looking to travel across Europe by train, then opt for the Global Pass which provides access to train travel in 33 countries across Europe, including Austria!
- EURail (for non-European citizens or residents) EUrail is essentially the same as InterRail but is for non-European citizens or residents. It also offers both country-specific and Global Passes.
- ÖBB Railjet - ÖBB Austrian railway offers great ticket options for traveling through Austria by train, especially when planning your trip and booking tickets in advance. For example, a second class train ticket from Vienna to Graz can be as low as €9 per person, each way. Visit their website for more info and to book tickets online.
Travel by Bus
Traveling by bus doesn't just stop within Austria, but you can also get a coach service which runs from the UK to Austria!
Travel by Boat
Although Austria is land-locked, it is possible to travel by boat from neighbouring countries via the Danube river. The river cuts across Northern Austria from Germany, through Linz to Vienna and along into Slovakia. DDSG Blue Danube runs regular passenger boat services along the Danube from mid-May to mid-September.
Dachstein Mountain, Austria
Traditional alpine chalets in Hallstatt
Lakes of Salzkammergut, Austria
Driving Austria
As much as I like to encourage more sustainable travel options, seeing the Austrian countryside and mountains can be easier to do via car instead.
Driving to Austria from the UK
Due to the fast and well-maintained motorways throughout Central Europe, the drive from the UK to the Austrian border is surprisingly quick at only around 10 - 11 hours, with a distance of approximately 650 miles.
However, I wouldn't recommend driving it in one hit! Instead, extend your road trip and spend a couple of days stopping off at some of the towns in Belgium and Germany on your way.
Tip: If driving from the UK to Austria - I would recommend going via Belgium and then through Germany, as the roads tend to be quicker and they don't have toll fees* compared to going through France.
* Motorcycles, cars and trucks up to 7,5 tons can use motorways in Germany for free.
Austrian Tolls
All Austrian motorways (Autobahn) and 'S' roads are subject to tolls. Read my top things to remember:
- You must display a Motorway Vignette (toll sticker)on the inside of your windscreen upon entering Austria. Vignettes can be obtained from post offices, newsagents, and petrol stations, as well as those in neighbouring countries and at the Austrian border.
- Note that cars rented in neighbouring countries may not be equipped with a Vignetter, so remember to obtain one from your car rental before leaving.
- Vignettes are also available to purchase online or from the ASFINAG mobile app.
- How much does a Vignette cost? Well a 10-day Vignette for vehicles up to 3.5t is €9.40, and for motorcycles is €5.40
Hiring a car in Austria
If you're flying to Austria but would still like to explore by car, then look at hiring a car. All major car hire companies operate in Austria, with cars available from airports or major cities, such as Vienna and Salzburg.
Visiting Austria - Overview
If you're a nature lover and outdoor enthusiast, then head to Austria to explore the beautiful alpine hills and mountains!
- Spend either a long holiday here in the Salzkammergut region, or visit one of Austria's beautiful cities for a short break away - More on the best places to visit in Austria.
- Visit Austria either in Spring or Autumn, to avoid the high season of summer and the crowds of holiday-makers - More on weather in Austria and when it's best to visit.
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Remember to try some of Austria's traditional cuisine - from the Wiener Schnitzel to Apple Strudel and coffee!
- If you're driving in Austria, then don't forget your Vignette toll sticker to go on the inside of your windscreen - More about traveling to and getting around Austria.
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