Austria is a country of many charms. Popular for its roots in classical music, this country offers a unique glimpse into the heart of European culture and history.
Although winter is known to be the best season to visit Austria and explore the snowy Alps, the summers will leave you with unforgettable excitement from the lively festivals and events.
Do you want to immerse yourself in the imperial history of Vienna or Plan your winter holidays for a ski trip in the Australian Alps? This guide will help you plan your journey efficiently to ensure a delightful travel experience.
Here are more details on the best time to visit Austria, depending on your travel preferences.
When is the Best Time to Visit Austria?
If you want to experience the picturesque Alpine landscapes in Salzburg or take a trip to Vienna to immerse yourself in the country's rich history, understanding the seasonal variations will help you plan your trip more effectively.
Peak Season - Summers
Summer in Austria, from June to August, is the peak season for travellers.
This is the best season to visit Austria, with warm weather that is perfect for exploring alpine regions, hiking, and enjoying crystal-clear lakes.
Cities like Vienna and Salzburg are vibrant, with cultural festivals, open-air concerts, and local markets showcasing Austrian hospitality.
July and August see the highest tourist influx, leading to crowded destinations and higher accommodation prices.
Booking accommodation in advance is recommended to secure the best deals and avoid last-minute issues.
Off-Season - Winters
Austria's off-season is winter, from December to February.
Temperatures range from -1°C to 5°C, making travel challenging. However, Austria’s winter charm is undeniable.
Heavy snowfall creates a picturesque Alpine winter wonderland. Christmas markets in cities and villages like Alpbach and Feldkirch become vibrant attractions, offering local treats like Germknödel.
Winter is a good time to visit Austria for adventure enthusiasts seeking skiing and snowboarding. Prepare for sub-zero temperatures with warm layers and accessible accommodations.
Shoulder Season - Autumn
The autumn months of September and October are Austria’s shoulder season.
Autumn in Austria offers stunning autumn colours and ideal conditions for cycling and hiking in the alpine hills.
It’s a perfect time to enjoy Vienna’s wine culture and Heuriger. Cultural enthusiasts can attend Vienna Fashion Week and The Viennale Film Festival.
November marks the traditional ball season with events like the Philharmonic Ball. This season offers lower accommodation costs and fewer crowds, making it easier to explore cities and the countryside.
Austrian Seasons - Temperature Guide
Seasons |
Weather |
Temperatures |
Spring | Pleasant and breezy | 9°C to 15°C |
Summer | Warm weather with rainfall | 17°C to 22°C |
Autumn | Pleasantly chilly | 10°C to 15°C |
Winter | Extremely Cold | -7°C to 5°C |
Month-by-Month Austria Travel Guide
Austria in March to May - Spring
March, April and May mark the spring season in Austria. With the temperatures getting warmer, April is the best month to visit Austria for flower viewing, exploring the natural landscapes and enjoying the bustling city life.
The pleasant weather is a great escape from the frosty winter in Austria and is ideal for visitors wanting to avoid the tourist rush during the peak season.
Moreover, this is the perfect time to hike around the natural wonders of the country.
It is more convenient to hike during this season as the snow starts melting from the mesmerising waterfalls like the Großer Riesachfall and Grawa Waterfall, opening up the trails for hikers to explore the streams up close.
Events & Festivals: Osterfestspiele Salzburg, Schubertiade Festival, May Day and the Vienna Festival of Arts and Music.
Best Places to Visit: Volksgarten in Vienna, Danube Valley, Salzburg.
Best Activities to Do:
Hike through the alpine forest and to stunning waterfalls in Styria and Tyrol that are brimming with melting snow water.
Take a Sound Of Music Tour in Salzburg.
Travel On Austria’s Steepest Steam Railway.
What to Know Before Visiting: The spring weather in Austria can be unpredictable. It is advisable to pack warmer layers and prepare for occasional rain showers.
Cost: Accommodation costs are lower during this time of year than during the peak season, making it ideal for budget travellers. The Average cost of flight tickets ranges between ₹25,600 and ₹26,700.
Austria in June to August - Summers
The summers mark the peak tourist season in Austria. Austria experiences the warmest climate during June, July and August.
This makes it the ideal time of the year for outdoor activities like hiking the Austrian Alps, kayaking in the lively rivers, cycling along iconic trails and swimming in the crystal-clear waters of Austria.
It is also a good time to tour Vienna, which is known to be one of the
most beautiful cities in Europe. From the Schlumberger Wine Cellar tours to a visit to the Belvedere Palace, the city offers an immersive experience of the history and traditions of the country.
Moreover, Austria also celebrates a variety of festivals from June to August, offering visitors a closer glimpse of Austrian culture and traditions. Most events and popular destinations during this period may be crowded due to the festivities as well as the tourist influx, particularly in July and August.
Events & Festivals:
Best Places to Visit:
Best Activities to Do:
See a performance at the Vienna Opera House and the Spanish Riding School.
Attend the floating opera on Lake Constance.
Tour the Schönbrunn Palace.
Visit the Kunsthistorisches Museum in Vienna.
Tour the Baroque palace and its art museum.
Visit the Swarovski Crystal World Museum.
Kayak the Danube River.
What to Know Before Visiting:
Rainfall is quite frequent during summers in Austria, so it is advisable to pack layers of clothing, including shorts, t-shirts and light rain jackets, along with party outfits for festivals and events.
Outdoor activities can tire you out; it is important to stay hydrated to avoid fainting spells. Carry reusable water bottles with you at all times.
Popular tourist attractions, especially those in Salzburg and Vienna, can be crowded during these months. Plan your visits earlier or later in the day to avoid peak crowds.
Although most Austrians speak English, it is advisable to learn a few basic German phrases to enhance your travel experience and show some respect.
Cost:
Hence, it is advisable to book your accommodation well in advance to avoid any last-minute hunts for costly hotels.
Austria in September to November - Autumn
Autumn in Austria fills the landscape with a vibrant range of hues. As the temperatures drop all over the country, the Autumn festivals and events are in full swing to celebrate the year’s fresh harvest.
Moreover, with Halloween celebrations in October and ball season approaching in November, visitors can expect many exciting experiences during this season.
The pleasant weather also makes it a favourable time for outdoor activities and exploration. Moreover, with the peak season coming to an end, the popular destinations are seen with fewer crowds, which makes touring around the country even more enjoyable.
Events & Festivals:
Ars Electronica Festival
St. Rupert's Fair
Salzburg Kulturtage
Almabtrieb processions
Referendum Day
Austrian National Day
All Saints' Day
St. Martin's Day
St. Leopold's Day
Best Places to Visit:
Best Activities to Do:
Vienna Wine Hiking
Attend the Snowbombing Festival in Mayrhofen
Attend the Herbstfestat at Schloss Hof
Visit the Belvedere Schlossgarten for a stroll
Go for a hike at Kahlenberg
Visit Zentralfriedhof
Visit the Narrenturm
Enjoy a show at Theater an der Josefstadt
Attend a concert at Wiener Konzerthaus
What to Know Before Visiting:
Although the climate during the day remains pleasant, the temperatures can drop during the later hours. It is advisable to pack layers of clothing to stay comfortable and warm.
Autumn is an excellent time to visit the countryside and experience the local harvest festivals and celebrations.
Cost:
The cost of accommodation in Autumn is considerably lower than during the prior peak tourism months. However, it is advisable to book accommodations in advance to avoid the stress of last-minute resort hunting.
The average cost of flight tickets during these months ranges between ₹17,000 to ₹20,650
Austria in December to February - Winters
December marks the beginning of harsh winters in Austria. Despite the freezing weather, many visitors flock to the Alps to indulge in exciting winter activities.
The Alpen Ski resorts are some of the most popular places to visit in Austria in December. Apart from skiing, visitors can engage in a variety of winter sports and activities and enjoy the snow-clad peaks of the Austrian Alps.
However, the mountains are not the only popular Austrian places to visit in winter. The picturesque frozen lakes all over the country are bustling with visitors during this season.
If you are not interested in winter sports, there are various hiking tours with routes along pristine frozen lakes and snow-clad alpine forests.
Apart from outdoor activities, you can also enjoy the festive Christmas markets in Salzburg or Vienna, which feature some Austrian delicacies and specialities. Be sure to try some warm Mulled wine on an evening stroll through a Christmas Market.
Events & Festivals:
Best Places to Visit:
St. Stephen’s Cathedral
Lake Hallstatt
UNESCO Old Town
Alpbach
Christmas markets
Bregenzerwald
Lake Weissensee
Lake Fuschlsee
Lake Pillersee
Gailtal valley
Best Activities to Do:
Skiing
Snowboarding
Winter Hiking
Snowshoeing
Ice Skating
Curling
Alpaca Excursions
Dog Sledding
Tobogganing
Torchlight Walking
Horse-drawn Sleigh Rides
Igloo Building
What to Know Before Visiting:
- Austrian winters can be extremely cold. To stay comfortable outdoors, it is advisable to pack warm clothes, including thermal inners, sweaters, a thick coat, gloves, a scarf and a hat.
- If you plan on engaging in winter sports activities such as skiing or snowboarding, consider renting equipment locally to save luggage space and ensure you have the right gear for the weather conditions.
Cost:
The cost of accommodation during this season can be higher due to upcoming festivities and winter sports tourism. It is advisable to book accommodations that are known to be accessible despite heavy snowfall.
The average cost of flight tickets during this season ranges from ₹23,000 to ₹27,000
Do I Need Travel Insurance for Austria?
Being a part of the Schengen Region, Austria has to follow visa requirements as per the Schengen Area guidelines. This requires all foreign tourists, including Indian nationals, to obtain
Schengen travel insurance to acquire a valid visa to enter the country.
Beyond regulatory compliance, travel insurance plans offer indispensable coverage against various travel contingencies that may arise during your international trip to Austria. This includes medical emergencies, loss of baggage, flight delays or cancellations, and other unforeseen circumstances.
Reliance General Insurance provides
International Travel Insurance plans designed to meet your travel needs. Whether you travel for business or leisure, our plans ensure you can focus on enjoying your journey without having to worry about potential disruptions that can cause financial distress.
Plan your future adventures with Reliance General travel insurance policies and embark on every journey confidently.
Conclusion
Austria is a breathtaking destination with a variety of experiences to offer. Planning your trip according to the seasons will ensure that the activities you want to engage in and the locations you want to visit are accessible.
Furthermore, investing in an international travel insurance plan will offer crucial peace of mind during your trip so you can have the most unforgettable Austrian experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some must-try foods in an Austrian Chrismas Market?
Maroni, sweet and delectable Bauernkrapfen, savoury Langos and warm Glühwein are some must-try Austrian specialities when visiting a Chrismas Market.
Is public transport in Austria a good option for travelling?
Yes, public transport in Austria is an excellent option for travelling. The transportation network is not only reliable but also safe, extensive and affordable.
With its well-developed infrastructure, it is easy to reach almost any destination seamlessly. It is the ideal option for budget travellers.
What are some things that one should do when visiting Austria?
Carry cash everywhere. Most local shops or restaurants tend not to accept cards or online payments.
Although not mandatory, try and tip around 5 % to 20 % at restaurants to be polite.
Sunday is a day off for everyone. Most shops, including supermarkets, are closed on Sundays. Make sure you are stocked with necessities in advance.
Try the bakes at local Austrian bakeries.
Try learning and speaking some basic German phrases.
Indulge in the culture at every given opportunity.
What are some things that one should not do when visiting Austria?
Do not order a Schnitzel with sauce, and indulge in some local lingonberry instead.
Do not compare Austrians with Germans.
Do not speak too loudly or shout in public spaces, except for concerts or events.
Do not click pictures of locals without their consent.
Do not be late for tours or booked appointments.
Do not make loud noises after 10 pm.