Foreign travel advice

Austria

Safety and security

Terrorism

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.

Terrorism in Austria

Terrorists are likely to try and carry out attacks in Austria.

Political demonstrations

Demonstrations may occur with little or no warning in cities. Avoid any protests, political gatherings or marches. Follow the advice of local authorities.

Crime

Crime levels are generally low. However, there are higher levels of petty crime, particularly pickpocketing, in the big city centres and city parks after dark. Thieves use a variety of methods to distract people.

Protecting your belongings

Take care on public transport and in crowded areas in city centres including main stations. Be particularly careful with your belongings on international trains to and from Austria, and when taking your baggage from trains and coaches.

Drink and food spiking

Drinks served in bars overseas are often stronger than those in the UK. Be careful about taking drinks from strangers or leaving your drinks unattended. Victims of spiked drinks have been robbed and sometimes assaulted.

Laws and cultural differences

Personal ID

By law, you must have your passport easily accessible at all times. If you do not carry your passport, it must be in the same district as you and accessible within a short time. A photocopy of the data page of your passport can be helpful. A UK driving licence is not recognised as official ID.

Drugs

Drug laws are similar to the UK. Possessing or trafficking drugs is dealt with severely.

Dress

It’s generally illegal to wear any clothing or object in public that covers your face. You could be fined up to 150 euro. See the See the Austrian government website information on the law and a list of exemptions.

Public transport

Tickets on public transport must be validated in a ticket machine before you start a journey. Failure to do so can result in an on the spot fine of 100 to 500 euros.

Outdoor activities and adventure tourism

Hiking, mountaineering and other adventure sports can be risky.

Check that the company is well- established in the industry and that you’ve arranged for your insurance to cover this specific activity.

For sports activities like skiing, potholing and mountaineering, and for sports classed as particularly dangerous (for example off-piste skiing, mountain biking, climbing, paragliding or BASE jumping), your insurance should include:

  • mountain rescue services

  • helicopter costs
  • repatriation to your country of residence or possible transfer to neighbouring countries for treatment

Check weather forecasts and conditions. Make sure you’re properly equipped for the worst-case scenario with items such as a map, compass, GPS and telecommunication equipment.

Risks are greater if you undertake any activity alone. You may want to hire a guide for expert advice. Always leave copies of your itinerary with someone.

Skiing

Read FCDO advice about staying safe while skiing and preparing for winter sports abroad.

Take advice on weather and avalanche conditions before you travel and familiarise yourself with local skiing laws and regulations.

Off-piste skiing is very dangerous. There are dangers of avalanches in some areas. Follow all safety instructions meticulously and go with a qualified guide. For more information about the avalanche risk, visit the European Avalanche Warning Service or the Austrian Avalanche Warning Service.

Transport risks

Road travel

There are complex driving laws in Austria, especially for caravan and motor-home drivers. If you are planning to drive in Austria, see information on driving abroad and read the RAC advice for driving in Austria.

You may also want to look at the European Commission and Austrian government advice on driving in Austria.

Licences and permits

To drive in Austria, you must be 18 years or over with a full UK driving licence, and have insurance and vehicle ownership documents.

If you’re living in Austria or planning to live there check the Living in Austria guide for information on requirements for residents.

Motorway travel

All vehicles on motorways, expressways and section toll segments in Austria are subject to tolls. If you use Austrian motorways you must display a vignette (sticker) inside your windscreen. You could be fined it you do not follow the rules. For more information visit the Austrian Official Travel Portal.