Getting Around

Getting Around Austria

There are 5 international airports in Austria with scheduled flights, the most important of which is Vienna, which has connections to all major airports of the world as well as domestic flights. Other international airports include Graz, Innsbruck Klagenfurt, Linz, and Salzburg, which provide domestic flights as well as connections to some European countries.

Because inter-city coaches are not common in Austria. traveling between cities by train is an ideal way to see the country in a leisurely way. The trains are comfortable and moderately priced and integrate well will local bus services which serve villages and lakes. If traveling in a group of between 2-5 people, special ERT discounts are available for traveling on local regional trains in off peak periods. Additionally, for travelers under 26, a special scheme called the Vorteils card offers discounts of up to 45% on all trains.

Traveling by car allows extra flexibility when exploring rural and sparsely populated regions, especially in the alpine regions. The roads are generally in very good condition and the scenery often spectacular. Most of the the motorways in Austria are toll roads and a toll pass or “Vignette” must be purchased in advance. These are reasonably priced and available at any petrol station or at the border. Traveling on toll roads without a pass illegal and carries a hefty fine. Some mountain passes also require payment of an additional toll, which should be paid in banknotes rather than coins. Foreign nationals require an international Driving License to drive in Austria, in addition to their own national drivers license.

In winter conditions the use of four winter tires or snow chains on at least two tires is now mandatory in Austria between 1 November and 15 April. Snow chains must also be carried during this time. These new provisions are strictly enforced and control points are common. New regulations also require that a reflective jacket in the car. Bear in mind that requirements are obligatory and negligence is subject to fines up to EUR 5000. If you are renting a car, make sure to check with your rental company prior to your arrival.

Car rental companies abound in Austria and most offer good prices for booking direct before arrival.

Another popular and more active way of exploring scenic and historic Austria is by taking a bike tour. Although much of Austria is mountainous, cycle routes along rivers are generally flat or gently downhill, and suitable for all ages and fitness levels. The most famous cycle routes is the Danube cycle path, which runs from Passau to Vienna, This is one of the most popular cycle paths in Europe, attracting cyclists from all over the world in the summer months. Other rivers with good cycle routes are the Inn, Drau, Moell and Mur. Most routes consist of cycle paths, quiet rural roads, and traffic calmed roads, and are ideal for family groups.