Austria / Republik Österreich – Let’s explore here
What’s it like in Austria?
Austria is an outrageously beautiful, landlocked, mountainous country the sits entirely within the Alps within central Europe. It’s so mountainous that only about a quarter of the country is flat enough to live in, making it quite an expensive place to both visit and to live in. The highest point in Austria is Mount Großglockner, at 12,461 ft (3,798 m) above sea level. The Großglockner alpine pass is the second most visited attraction in Austria, and is absolutely beautiful.
In the west, the country is very narrow, and the valleys particularly exacerbate this, leading to spectacular mountainous scenery. In the east, the plains widen out into farmland and major population centres.
Austria is about the same size as Scotland, and has a population of around nine million people (2023), about one in three of whom live in the metropolitan area of the capital, Vienna. It’s bordered by Germany, Czechia, Slovakia, Hungary, Slovenia, Italy, Switzerland and Liechtenstein.
A bit about the history of Austria
Austria has a rich history, shaped by its central position in Europe and its role as a major power in European affairs.
Early History and the Holy Roman Empire
Austria’s history dates back to the Roman Empire, when it was part of the province of Noricum. In the Middle Ages, the region became part of the Holy Roman Empire. By the 12th century, the House of Habsburg rose to power, and Austria became a leading territory within the empire.
Habsburg Empire
The Habsburg dynasty ruled Austria for centuries, and the country became a dominant European power. The Habsburgs controlled a vast empire, which at its height included Austria, Hungary, and much of central and eastern Europe, as well as territories in Italy and Spain. This period is known as the Austro-Hungarian Empire (1867–1918), a multi-ethnic empire that was one of Europe’s leading powers.
World War I and Collapse of the Austro-Hungarian Empire
Following Austria-Hungary’s defeat in World War I, the empire collapsed in 1918. Austria became a republic, the First Austrian Republic, but it faced economic difficulties and political instability. The Treaty of Saint-Germain (1919) formally disbanded the empire and reduced Austria to its present size.
Interwar Period and Nazi Era
Austria was politically unstable during the inter-war years. In 1938, Austria was annexed by Nazi Germany in the Anschluss, effectively erasing Austria as an independent state. The country became a part of the Third Reich until the end of World War II in 1945.
Post-War Austria and Neutrality
After World War II, Austria was occupied by the Allies but regained its independence in 1955 with the Austrian State Treaty. Austria declared its permanent neutrality, a position it has maintained since, avoiding military alliances like NATO. In the following decades, Austria rebuilt its economy and became a prosperous, democratic country.
Modern Austria
Austria joined the European Union in 1995 and has become a stable, highly developed country with a strong economy, known for its cultural heritage in music, arts, and philosophy. Today, Austria remains a neutral, democratic republic with a high standard of living and a central role in European diplomacy.
Austria road trip
Our Austrian road trip was part of a much larger European road trip.
The Tyrol
On our 2024 road trip through Austria, we travelled up from Italy via the outstanding Tyrol mountain area. The Tyrol provides some really outstanding views and there are loads of lovely towns and villages to explore on the way.
The big one again!
We couldn’t resist driving over the simply amazing Großglockner Pass, but heading in the reverse direction from the previous year. This pass is an absolutely must for anyone in the area, despite the cost!
Central Austria
Driving behaviour in Austria is so very different from Italy, and we immediately started to relax 😉 as we stopped over in several beautiful villages east of Krimml. We especially liked Neukirchen am Großvenediger, and its super friendly inhabitants who all greet you in passing 🙂
Central Austria mountain passes and waterfalls
We decided this time to hike up the stunning Krimmler waterfall, before travelling across the lovely Gerlos pass, with its views of stupendous mountains and outrageously steep farms that line the pass. At the end of the pass lies the lovely Austrian town, Zell am Ziller, which is the start of the Zillertaler Höhenstraße mountain pass – a private road atop the mountains.
The capital
From there we moved on to fantastic Innsbruck again, before heading towards Switzerland in order to travel the Norbertshöhe and the Albula mountain passes.
Map of our road trip through Austria in 2024
This is a map of the road trip that we took through Austria on our travels in 2024, from Italy to Switzerland.
The route took us from Sillian – Großkirchheim – Großglockner pass – Neukirchen am Großvenediger – Krimmler waterfall – Gerlospass – Zillertaler Höhenstraße – Innsbruck – Norbertshöhe – and down to the Albula pass in Switzerland via the Martina Pfunds border crossing
Previous road trips through Austria
Our Albanian road trip was part of a much larger European road trip.
Western Austria
On our 2023 road trip through Austria we entered the country via Liechtenstein, driving through Feldkirch to Nenzing in Austria. Some of these small towns in Austria that are less well known are really excellent places to stop over in, and people tend to be so friendly.
West Austrian Mountain passes
This road trip crossed over the absolutely stunning Silvretta-Hochalpenstraße (High Apline road) towards Innsbruck. Although it costs to drive the Silvretta, it’s an absolute must – one of the best roads in the Alps in our opinion.
The capital
Driving on through the non-toll roads to the capital, Innsbruck is a superb drive. The views are amazing and when you arrive, you’re blown away by how pretty the city is, and how super friendly everyone is.
Central mountain passes and waterfalls
We then travelled over the Gerlos pass and its pretty mountain views, past Europe’s highest waterfall – the Krimmler Waterfall, and on stay for a few days in the fantastic lakeside town, Zell am See, one of the most relaxing places in Europe!
The big one!
Another of the best mountain passes in the Alps is the Großglockner Hochalpenstraße, one of Europe’s highest roads. It too is a toll road, but again, well worth the cost. You can get discounts for these mountain passes via the ‘Sommer card’ (see below).
Historic towns
We then headed north over towards the amzing city of Salzburg, before travelling east to the pretty lakeside towns of Hallstatt, Salzkammergut and Grundlsee, when we camped in the icy cold … brrr 🙂
Southern Austria
From there we headed south east down to the university city off Graz, before heading on to Slovenia.
We learnt a lot more about this stunning country and met some really interesting people. It really is quite different from Switzerland and Liechtenstein, particularly in the east of the country.
Map of our road trip through Austria in 2023
This is a map of the road trip that we took through Austria on our travels in 2023, from Switzerland and Liechtenstein to Slovenia.
Our route took us from Feldkirch – Lustenau – Bregenz. Nenzing – Silvretta-Hochalpenstraße – Innsbruck – Telfes im Stubai – Gerlospass – Krimmler waterfall – Zell am See – Großglockner Pass – Salzburg – Salzkammergut – Hallstatt – Grundlsee – Graz
Our favourite places in Austria
These are some of the best places that we explored on our road trip through Austria. We’ve put them in alphabetical order.
Mountain Passes
Two of the most famous mountain passes in the world are in Austria – the Großglockner Hochalpenstraße and the Silvretta-Hochalpenstraße. Austria really does have some of the best roads on the continent of Europe. However it should be noted that the majority of Austrian mountain passes are toll roads, and thus there are fees to pay (unless you have a Sommer card) – and they’re not inconsiderable! Whether this is considered a tax or to help with climate change, the high cost excludes many from travelling these routes.
That said, each of the mountain passes that we drove have stunning views! The Großglockner was reduced by €10 to €33 when we visited in 2024, due to it being the end of season. In fact, it was meant to be closed, but due to the fine weather it was open for an extra week 🙂
The Sommer card
There are also some hotel and guesthouses that offer a free pass on the alpine passes, called a ‘Sommer card’. This is well worth having, and will enable reduced costs and free passes to a whole host of activities.
Gerlos pass
Running from Krimml to Zell am Ziller in the mid-west of the country, the Gerlos pass is a stunning mountain road that’s definitely worth a visit. The road was built in the 1960s and replaced the old Gerlos alpine pass, now named the Krimmler Landesstraße. Situated at an altitude of 1,630 meters, it offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, lush valleys, and alpine landscapes. The people farm the land on the steepest of slopes and the views are magnificent.
The pass is a popular route for travelers heading to the Zillertal Arena, one of Austria’s largest ski resorts, making it a key access point for winter sports enthusiasts. In the warmer months, Gerlos Pass becomes a haven for hikers, cyclists, and nature lovers. With its breathtaking scenery and outdoor activities, Gerlos Pass is a must-visit destination in Austria.
The Sommer card provides free passage for what normally costs €12 (2024).
Großglockner Hochalpenstraße
The Großglockner Hochalpenstraße is the highest road in Austria and passes the Großglockner mountain, the highest point in Austria, 12,461 ft (3,798 m) above sea level. The road travels from Heiligenblut in the south to Bruck in the north, near to Zell am Zee. From the south there are two branches, one of which takes you west to a stunning view of the Großglockner mountain at the Kaiser-Franz-Josefs-Höhe visitors centre, with the other route taking you north across stunning landscape and lots of beautiful hairpin bends.
The Großglockner Hochalpenstraße is Austria’s most visited place after Vienna, offering stunning views of the Alps. Stretching for 30 Miles (48 km), the road passes through the Hohe Tauern National Park. The route features 36 hairpin bends, alpine meadows, and glaciers, and along the way, you can stop at various viewpoints and enjoy breathtaking panoramas of snow-capped mountains, making it a must-see for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.
The Sommer card provides free passage for what normally costs €43 (2024).
Großglockner Hochalpenstraße
Krimmler Landesstraße
The Krimmler Landesstraße is the old Gerlos alpine pass, that runs from part way along the current Gerlos pass (near Königsleiten) to Wald im Pinzgau. As it is in an elevated position, it affords some great views towards Krimml and the Krimmler waterfall. It was replaced as the main Gerlos pass when the new road was opened in the 1960s.
Silvretta-Hochalpenstraße
The Silvretta-Hochalpenstraße is a spectacular high-altitude mountain road in Austria, 6,666 ft (2,032 m) above sea level. It provides breathtaking views of rugged peaks, glaciers, and alpine meadows. Running through the Silvretta Alps, it spans 14 miles (22 km) through 34 hairpin bends, connecting the towns of Partenen and Galtür in the Paznaun Valley.
The toll booths are at Partenen in the west and Galtür to the east. About half way along there is a lake with restaurants and views over the magnificent Piz Buin mountain.
Silvretta-Hochalpenstraße from the west
Zillertaler Höhenstraße
The Zillertaler Höhenstraße is a lovely alpine pass located above and to the west of Zell am Ziller, close to the Gerlos Pass. Reaching up to 6,627 ft (2,020 m) above sea level, it provides stunning views of the Zillertal Valley and surrounding peaks, and stretches for 30 miles (48 km). It connects the town of Strass in Zillertal with the Hintertux Glacier, and at the summit is a private road, with a cost of €10 (2024) associated with travelling on it.
Some of our favourite Austrian towns
Graz
Located in the south eastern part of the country, Graz is the second largest city in Austria, with a population around 300,000 people. Similarly to Salzburg, there are a massive amount of students, due to its four universities, giving it a particularly vibrant atmosphere. The city’s medieval old town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, features beautiful Renaissance and Baroque architecture, including the iconic Graz Castle and the clock tower on Schlossberg hill.
Grundlsee lake
Grundlsee Lake is a stunning alpine lake located in the Ausseerland region of Austria, surrounded by the majestic Dachstein Mountains. Known as the “Sea of Aussee,” the lake is the largest in the Salzkammergut region and offers crystal-clear waters and picturesque landscapes. Located to the south of the Dead Mountains, it’s 2323ft (708m) above sea level, and is 3.6 miles (5.8 km) long and 3008ft (917m) wide.
Its serene setting is perfect for outdoor activities such as swimming, boating, hiking, and fishing. The lovely village of Grundlsee, located on the lake’s shore, adds to the area’s appeal, with traditional wooden houses and a peaceful atmosphere.
It’s a popular place during peak summer months, and there are plenty of accommodation options available. We stayed at the super friendly Camping Gößl site at the eastern end of the lake. In mid October; the temperature was -3°C (26°F) overnight; the locals called us hardy! 🙂
Hallstatt
Hallstatt is a picturesque, small town in the Salzkammergut region, which is the origin of the Hallstatt culture – linking to early Celtic people of the Early Iron Age in Europe, c. 800–450 BC. It’s dominated by the Dachstein massif and sits in front of the Hallstätter See. Unfortunately, it suffers heavily from over tourism due to being linked to viral posts naming it the most Instgrammable town in the world.
Dachstein massif
Imst
Imst is a charming town located in the Tyrol region of Austria, nestled in the picturesque Imst Valley. Located 2,717 feet (828 m) above sea level, it’s known for its stunning Alpine scenery and majestic mountains, making it a popular base for outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and mountain biking. Imst is rich in history, with landmarks such as the medieval town center, the Church of St. Nicholas, and the nearby Rosengarten Gorge. The area is also famous for the ‘Alpine Coaster’, one of the longest summer toboggan runs in the world.
Innsbruck
Innsbruck is a fantastic, small city in the west of Austria that sits between two sets of high mountains. As such, it’s known as a world class winter sports centre. The population is around 135,000 people. there’s absolutely loads to see and do in Innsbruck, and it’s a really friendly and safe city.
The city is famous for landmarks like the Golden Roof, a symbol of its medieval history, and the Imperial Palace. Innsbruck is also a top destination for winter sports, hosting the Winter Olympics twice, and offers year-round activities such as skiing, hiking, and mountain biking. With its beautiful old town, lively atmosphere, and proximity to the mountains, Innsbruck is an ideal destination for all types of travellers.
As a major tourist resort, it’s well set up with hotels, restaurants, cafés, museums, shops etc. We camped nearby at the SonnenCamping Stubai camp site, which has excellent views, great showers, and is highly recommended.
Krimml & Krimmler waterfall
The Krimmler waterfall (Krimmler Wasserfälle) is located near the village of Krimml, in the Hohe Tauern National Park. It’s also close to the Gerlos pass and the Krimmler Landesstraße . As the highest waterfall in Austria, it’s a fairly spectacular sight, dropping 1250ft (380m) in three stages. There’s a well-maintained hiking trail that leads to various viewpoints up the waterfall, offering breathtaking views of the cascading water.
The Sommer card provides free passage for what normally costs €14.90 (2024) and free car parking close to the falls.
Nenzing
Nenzing is a small town located in the state of Vorarlberg, in western Austria, nestled at the foot of the striking Verwall Mountains. Known for its picturesque alpine setting, Nenzing offers a tranquil atmosphere and stunning natural landscapes. The town is a great base for outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and skiing in the nearby Montafon Valley. Nenzing also features historical landmarks like the Church of St. Martin and traditional Tyrolean architecture.
It’s is a lovely town close to the border with Liechtenstein, offering better value for money. We stayed at the Gasthaus Rössle, which was superb – both the rooms and the restaurant – although not cheap! The morning beckons an overzealous campanologist in the church next door however – over 200 bell rings every quarter of an hour from 6 – 7:45am. Just laughable! Luckily I’m an early riser 🙂
Prutz
Prutz in a small town in west Austria, with a beautiful blue river, called the Inn. It’s not far from the Swiss border. Most of the sledges made in Austria come from Prutz.
It’s a picturesque town located in the Tyrol region of Austria, nestled in the Upper Inntal Valley. Surrounded by stunning alpine landscapes, Prutz offers breathtaking views of the nearby mountains, including the Kaunergrat and Ötztal Alps. The town is a popular base for outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and mountain biking, with easy access to the nearby Fendels Ski Resort.
Salzburg
Salzburg is a small but historically important city in the north west of Austria, near the German border. Similarly to Graz, there are a massive amount of students, due to its three universities, giving it a particularly vibrant atmosphere.
Famous for its baroque architecture and stunning alpine surroundings, Salzburg is best known as the birthplace of composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, and is renowned for its vibrant music scene, especially during the annual Salzburg Festival. The city has some lovely iconic landmarks such as the Mirabell Palace and the Salzburg Cathedral, and is is dominated by the massive 11th century Hohensalzburg Fortress.
Salzkammergut
Salzkammergut is an area of small but very beautiful glacial lakes, east of Salzburg. Located in the heart of the country, it stretches across Upper Austria, Styria, and Salzburg. The area is famous for its lovely towns like Hallstatt, Bad Ischl, and St. Wolfgang, each offering a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature. Known as the ‘Salzburg Lake District’, the region is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering hiking, boating, and skiing opportunities. The area is serene and outside of tourist season is an amazing place to visit.
Schruns
Schruns is a lovely little village in a pretty valley in the west of Austria, dominated by mountains and forests on both sides of the road. Mount Zimba towers over the town, at 8,678 ft (2,645m), and is a great place to check out some hiking and climbing.
It’s a picturesque town located in the Montafon Valley in the Tyrol region of Austria. Surrounded by the majestic Silvretta and Rätikon mountain ranges, Schruns is a popular destination for outdoor activities year-round. In winter, it offers easy access to ski resorts like the Silvretta Montafon, attracting skiers and snowboarders. During the warmer months, you can enjoy hiking, cycling, and exploring the breathtaking alpine landscapes. The town itself has lovely Tyrolean architecture, cozy restaurants, and a peaceful atmosphere.
Telfes im Stubai
Telfes im Stubai is a charming village located in the Stubai Valley of Tyrol, to the south of Innsbruck, surrounded by the stunning Stubai Alps. Known for its picturesque alpine setting, Telfes offers a peaceful escape while providing access to a variety of outdoor activities. In winter, the village is close to the Stubai Glacier, making it a great destination for skiing and snowboarding. During summer, you can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and exploring the valley’s natural beauty.
We camped nearby at the SonnenCamping Stubai camp site, which has excellent views, great showers, and is highly recommended.
Zell am See
Zell am See is a small, pretty town on the banks of the spectacular Lake Zell. The lake is 2½ miles (4km) long and 1 mile (1.5km) wide. The lake freezes over in winter. The von Trapp family (think the Sound of Music) regularly played in Zell am See.
Due to the inclement weather, We stayed at the Nikolaus by Avenida hotel, which had rooms with panoramic views over the lake and each room had its own private sauna! Whilst we were there we learnt that over the last decade, many of the hotel staff have learned Arabic due to the large numbers of west Asian citizens that delight in frequenting the town.
What’s it like to drive in Austria?
They drive on the right hand side of the road in Austria. There aren’t that many large cities, and traffic tends to always be very ordered and polite. We found that drivers are not aggressive, and tend not to use a car horn unless absolutely necessary. Road signage is very good. Tunnels are well lit and spotlessly clean.
For the most part driving in Austria is a fairly laid-back affair with everyone adhering to speed limits. Speeding is heavily fined in Austria!
Driving in the mountains
We’ve found that when driving on mountain passes, roads can be single track making conditions difficult – particularly in the rain. Plus, roads are not always open due to snow.
Toll roads in Austria
There are many toll roads in Austria, and using them without paying will cost you heavily. That said, we found it quite easy to traverse the country without using any of the toll roads.
Do you require an international driving permit in Austria?
We’ve created a dedicated page to driving abroad, which answers this question, and more, which you might find helpful.
Can you use your UK driving license when driving through Austria?
We’ve created a dedicated page to driving abroad, which answers this question, and more, which you might find helpful.
Do I need a carnet de passages to drive in Austria?
We’ve created a dedicated page to driving abroad, which answers this question, and more, which you might find helpful.
What are the speed limits in Austria?
The speed limits for cars in Austria are:
- 30 mph (50 km/h) for urban driving
- 60 mph (100 km/h) outside of built up areas
- 60 mph (100 km/h) on dual carriageways
- 80 mph (130 km/h) on motorways
What currency do they use in Austria?
In Austria they use the Euro. The use of credit / debit cards is now widespread. Travellers cheques are accepted. There are lots of ATMs.
You should make yourself aware of the amount that your bank charges you for using credit and debit cards abroad. Often credit cards are cheaper for purchasing items directly, and for withdrawing cash from ATMs.
What language do they speak in Austria?
They speak German in Austria. We found that some speak English, although mostly only in very touristy places and in hotels.
What time zone is Austria in?
Remember, when you’re planning your next trip to take a look at what time zone it’s in.
Do I need a visa to visit Austria?
We’ve created a dedicated, more comprehensive page on visas, which you should find helpful. Check it out!
Is wild camping legal in Austria?
Yes and no, wild camping is legal in some states of Austria, but illegal in others. The map below shows which states it’s illegal and which states it’s not, with the conditions listed to the side.
Burgenland: wild camp for up to three nights
Oberösterreich: camp above the tree line
Salzburg: camp above the tree line
Steiermark: wild camping permitted
Vorarlberg: camp above the tree line
What plug / socket type do they use in Austria?
In Austria they use plug / socket type F.
Health issues in Austria
Is it safe to drink water in Austria?
Yes, it is safe to drink tap water in Austria. Bottled water is also readily available across the country.
What vaccinations are required for Austria?
This NHS website is kept up to date with all relevant information on vaccinations in Austria.
Phones in Austria
What is the country calling code for Andorra?
The country calling code for Andorra is +43
What are the emergency phone numbers in Austria?
- The emergency number for police in Austria is: 112 / 133
- In Austria, the emergency number for ambulance is: 144
- The emergency number for fire in Austria is: 122
If you’ve got some useful info that you’d like to share, let us know!
Don’t forget to check out all the other pictures!