AUSTRIA
Austria is often distinguished by its rolling hills, towering mountains, and flowing rivers. Any nature-lover can spend weeks here without seeing the same landscape twice. This classy country is also no stranger to lavish living as demonstrated by its baroque architecture and fancy palaces. Not sure when to visit? No worries; there is no “wrong time” as every season has plenty to offer!
Updated COVID-19 Travel Information:
Currency:
The official currency of Austria is the Euro (EUR) (€)
$1 USD = €0.85
Pricing for Leisure Travelers:
Average Hotel Expenses = €71-€83/Night ($85-$100 USD/Night)
Average Food/Drink Expenses = €25-€37/Day ($30-$45 USD/Day)
Pricing for Backpackers:
Average Hostel Expenses = €10-€18/Night ($12-$22 USD/Night)
Average Food/Drink Expenses = €11-€19/Day ($13-$23 USD/Day)
Communication:
German is the official language of Austria. Most locals can very easily navigate a conversation in English, too.
Transportation:
Train: My recommendation for travel throughout Austria. Rail Europe’s website is very user-friendly. If you plan to make multiple trips to different cities in Austria within the same month, it may be cost-effective to buy a rail pass (a 3 ride Eurail Austria pass is €130). You can also look into the Eurail Global Pass which has many different options depending on your destinations and length of travel.
Bus: Tickets will be less expensive than the train but you will be traveling for a longer period of time. Neither mode of transport is right or wrong; just different. You can book bus tickets through your hostel or via Busbud.
Airplane: Flying across Europe can be expensive when you factor in baggage fees. You also have to take into account getting to and from the airport on both legs of your journey. I would recommend train or bus travel over flying because airfare is generally more expensive and comes with more restrictions.
Miscellaneous:
Public transportation in Austria is on the honor system; there are no gates, barriers, or people whom you need to show your ticket before boarding. You’re more than welcome to test your luck without paying, but if ticket inspectors come on board, they won’t be shy about giving you an €80 fine. One-way tickets in Vienna are roughly €2.40.
Austria and Germany may be neighbors but that doesn’t mean they like being confused for each other. Both countries are very proud of their histories so do your best not to confuse the two!
