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 to carry out attacks in Austria.
Political demonstrations
Demonstrations may happen with little or no warning in cities. 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 city centres including main stations. Be particularly careful with your belongings on international trains and when you take your baggage from trains and coaches.
Drink 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. Criminals have robbed and assaulted people after spiking their drinks.
Laws and cultural differences
Personal ID
By law, you must always have easy access to your passport. If you do not carry your passport, it must be in the same district as you, and you must be able to get it quickly. It can be helpful to carry a copy of the photo page. The Austrian authorities do not accept a UK driving licence as official ID.
Drugs
Drug laws are similar to the UK. Possessing or trafficking drugs is dealt with severely.
Face-covering ban
It’s generally illegal to wear any clothing or object in public that covers your face. You could get a fine of up to 150 euros. See information on Austria’s face-covering ban, including a list of exemptions.
Public transport
You must validate your ticket in a ticket machine before starting a journey on public transport. If you do not, you could get a 100 to 500 euro on-the-spot fine.
Outdoor activities and adventure tourism
For outdoor activities and adventure sports, make sure:
- you use a well-established company
- your insurance covers your 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 or paragliding), your insurance should include:
- mountain rescue services
- helicopter costs
- repatriation to your country of residence
- 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 telecommunications equipment.
Adventure sports and activities are riskier if you’re alone. Consider hiring a guide for expert advice. Always leave details of your itinerary with someone.
Skiing
See preparing for winter sports abroad.
Take advice on weather and avalanche conditions before you travel. Follow local skiing laws and regulations.
Off-piste skiing is very dangerous and can invalidate your travel insurance. Avalanches are a risk in some areas. Follow safety instructions carefully and go with a qualified guide. See European Avalanche Warning Service and the Austrian Avalanche Warning Service (in German).
Transport risks
Road travel
If you are planning to drive in Austria, see information on driving abroad and check the rules of the road in the RAC’s Austria guide. The guide lists driving regulations and other legal requirements you need to be aware of.
Driving laws in Austria can be complex, especially for caravan and motorhomes. For more information, see EU road rules and safety and Austrian vehicle laws.
You can use a UK photocard driving licence to drive in Austria if you are aged 18 or over. If you still have a paper driving licence, you may need to update it to a photocard licence.
Hire car companies often have stricter requirements for their customers, such as a year of driving experience and a higher minimum age.
You must carry insurance and vehicle ownership documents.
There is also guidance on driving if you’re living in Austria.
Motorway tolls
All vehicles on motorways and expressways in Austria are subject to tolls. If you use Austrian motorways, you must display a vignette (sticker) inside your windscreen. You could get a fine if you do not.