Everything you need to know for Austria
Geographical Position and Climate of Austria
Austria is a landlocked country located in Central Europe, bordered by Germany and the Czech Republic to the north, Slovakia and Hungary to the east, Slovenia and Italy to the south, and Switzerland and Liechtenstein to the west. The country is predominantly mountainous due to the presence of the Alps; however, the Austrian landscape also includes flat plains and rolling hills.
Austria experiences a temperate continental climate with four distinct seasons. The climate can vary considerably from region to region due to the topography. The areas in the Alpine regions are colder with longer and more severe winters than the lowland areas in the east of the country, which have hotter summers and cold but less harsh winters.
Brief History of Austria
Long before the notion of a nation called Austria emerged, the region was home to Celtic tribes, known for their artistry and warrior culture. The Romans, drawn by the area’s wealth in resources, conquered it in the 1st century BC, incorporating it into their empire as the province of Noricum.
With the fall of Rome, the stage was set for a series of invasions by Germanic tribes, Slavs, and Magyars. It wasn’t until the Babenberg dynasty that the region began to coalesce into a recognizable entity in the 10th century. This period saw the growth of monasticism and the arts under the patronage of the ruling class.
The death of the last Babenberg in the mid-13th century left a power vacuum that the Habsburgs filled. They would rule Austria for over six centuries, shaping its destiny profoundly. Under their reign, Austria became the nucleus of the Holy Roman Empire, with Vienna blossoming into a cultural and intellectual beacon by the Renaissance.
The 19th century brought tumult and transformation. The Napoleonic Wars saw the dissolution of the Holy Roman Empire and the rise of the Austrian Empire. The Habsburgs’ grip on power was challenged, leading to the Compromise of 1867, which created the dual monarchy of Austria-Hungary.
The assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand in 1914 plunged Europe into World War I. The defeat of the Central Powers spelled the end of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. In its ashes rose the First Austrian Republic, but economic hardship and political instability paved the way for the Anschluss, Austria’s annexation by Nazi Germany in 1938.
World War II left Austria divided and occupied by the Allies. The Austrian State Treaty of 1955 marked the birth of the Second Republic and a commitment to neutrality, forbidding alliances with military blocs.
Post-war Austria embarked on a journey of reconstruction, developing a robust social market economy. Cultural life flourished once again, echoing the country’s historical role as a patron of the arts. In 1995, Austria joined the European Union, embracing a new role in a united Europe while maintaining its unique identity shaped by a millennium of history.
Today, Austria stands as a testament to its imperial legacy, a modern nation proud of its past and confident in its place in the world.
Religion of Austria
The majority of Austrians are Roman Catholic. There are also smaller Protestant, Muslim and Orthodox communities.
Language of Austria
The country’s official language is German. Minority groups also speak Turkish, Serbian and Croatian.
Austria is a prime European destination renowned for its stunning Alpine scenery, rich cultural heritage, and historical landmarks. Visitors are drawn to its picturesque cities like Vienna, with its imperial palaces and vibrant music scene, and Salzburg, the birthplace of Mozart and the setting for “The Sound of Music.”
Places You Must Visit
Before You Visit Austria
Travel to Austria
By Air
- Major Airports: Vienna International Airport (VIE) is the main gateway, with other significant airports in Salzburg (SZG), Innsbruck (INN), and Graz (GRZ).
- Airlines: Many international airlines operate flights to Austria, including the country’s flagship carrier, Austrian Airlines.
With Train
- International Rail Links: Austria has excellent rail connections with neighboring countries like Germany, Switzerland, Italy, Hungary, and the Czech Republic.
- ÖBB (Austrian Federal Railways): Offers extensive domestic services and international routes, including high-speed Railjet trains.
By Road
- Buses: International bus services connect Austria with many European cities.
- Car: Well-maintained highways and scenic routes make driving into Austria a pleasant experience. Border crossings from neighboring countries are straightforward.
By Water
- River Cruises: The Danube River is a popular route for river cruises, offering an alternative and scenic way to arrive in Austria.
Visas for Austria
Austria is a member of the European Union and part of the Schengen Area, which means that visa policies are in line with the Schengen Agreement. Here’s an overview of visa requirements for Austria:
Schengen Visa
- Short Stays: Non-EU citizens who wish to stay in Austria for up to 90 days within a 180-day period for tourism, business, or visiting family/friends may need a Schengen visa.
- Application: The visa application should be submitted to the Austrian embassy or consulate in the applicant’s home country.
Visa Exemptions
- EU/EEA/Swiss Citizens: Do not require a visa to enter Austria and can stay and work without restrictions.
- Visa Waiver Countries: Citizens from countries like the USA, Canada, Australia, Japan, South Korea, and Brazil do not need a visa for short stays.
National Visas (D-Visa)
- Long Stays: For stays longer than 90 days, such as for work, study, or family reunification, a national visa (D-visa) is required.
- Residence Permits: After entering Austria with a D-visa, individuals must apply for a residence permit for longer-term stays.
Best time to visit Austria
The best time to visit Austria largely depends on the activities you’re interested in:
Winter Sports
- December to March: This is the peak season for skiing and snowboarding, with reliable snow cover in the Alps.
Sightseeing and Culture
- April to June: Spring brings warmer weather and blooming landscapes, ideal for city tours and countryside excursions.
- September to October: Fall offers pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds, perfect for enjoying cultural events and the wine harvest season.
Warm Weather Activities
- July to August: These are the warmest months, suitable for hiking, swimming in lakes, and attending numerous music festivals.
Keep in mind that July and August are also the busiest months for tourism, so booking accommodations in advance is recommended. Additionally, while summer offers the most daylight hours for activities, it can also bring occasional rain showers.
Important Information:
Capital – Vienna
Territory – 83,879 km2
Currency – Euro
Time Zone – UTC+1 (CET) / UTC+2 (CEST)
Population – 9,027,999
Demonym – Austrian