AUSTRIA

TRAVEL MAGAZINE
destinations
art & architecture
music
nature
wine travel
winter
travel tips
events
1

2 3 4
PHOTOS: 1) AND 3) AUSTRIAN TOURIST OFFICE; 2) TVBI / STEFAN DAUTH;

-| 1 Picturesque landscape in Tirol

-| 2 Innsbruck boasts cutting-edge architecture such as Zaha Hadid’s funicular station
-| 3 Traditional costumes with detailed ornaments are still worn for special occasions
4) WIENTOURISMUS / CLAUDIO ALESSANDRI

-| 4 Vienna has the largest wine growing area of any European capital
-| 5 The Lippizan stallions of the Spanish Riding School
-| 6 Schönbrunn Palace was the summer residence of the former Imperial Family
-| 7 The Kunsthaus Graz perfectly blends architectural styles

2 www.austria.info
 Editorial

Michael Gigl, Director,

Austrian Tourist Office North America

Dear Traveler:
First and foremost, thank you for your interest in visiting Austria. A unique and
charming country, Austria is a combination of pristine landscapes and bustling cities,
historic town centers and cutting-edge architecture, love of tradition and thirst for the
new. These exciting contrasts are part of the reason that veteran travelers report about
their Austria experiences in such glowing terms. What keeps them coming back,
though, is the famous Austrian hospitality, and that sense of “Gemütlichkeit”: a lifestyle
that celebrates the finer moments in life, such as a good meal in the company of
friends, a nice long conversation over a cup of coffee, or a long walk through the crisp
mountain air, with the sun warming your cheeks and the smell of melting snow and
fresh grass in the air.
Our “Austria Travel Magazine” gives you an overview of the various things to experience
in our country. You will find many practical travel tips, information on well-known
resorts, and sights, as well as hotel information and a calendar with annual events
worth planning a trip around. Read about Austrian history, must-see museums and
festivals, or Austrian wine culture and cuisine.
We hope that this magazine will whet your appetite for a one-of-a-kind travel
experience. Let us know if we can be of any further assistance with your travel plans,
and be sure to visit www.austria.info for even more helpful information.
Sincerely yours, Michael Gigl

Map Food & Wine

Austria at a Glance When Modern Meets Classical

History Nature Paradise

Experience Austria’s Imperial Past Ideas for Idyllic Nature Experiences

Vienna The Arlberg

Enjoy Vienna throughout the Seasons The Cradle of Skiing

Music Winter Magic

Austria’s Top 11 Music Festivals By Roger Toll, Former Editor of Snow Country Magazine

Salzburg Christmas Markets

Explore the Wonders of Salzburg and the SalzburgerLand Where to Find the Most Charming Christmas Markets in Austria

Art & Design Event Highlights

From Old Masters to Postmodernists The Best Annual Festivals, Concerts and Events at a Glance

Modern Architecture Travel Tips

A Short Tour of Austria’s Architecture Highlights Useful Information for Planning your Trip to Austria

5 6 7

Austrian Tourist Office Inc. Disclaimer

P.O. Box 1142, New York, NY 10108-1142 “Austria Travel Magazine” is an official publication of the Austria Tourist Office Inc., New York, NY. The
Canada Tel: (416) 967 3381 Austrian Tourist Office does not endorse any products or services in this Travel Planner.
US Tel: (212) 944-6880 • US Fax: (212) 730-4568 The descriptions are provided as a guide only. Always check the descriptions and timetables with the
PHOTOS: AUSTRIAN TOURIST OFFICE:

www.austria.info supplier before relying on them to make travel plans. The Austrian Tourist Office does not accept
responsibility of liability for any claims arising out of the descriptions or information supplied to it. Any
Executive Editor rights conferred by any other legislation which cannot be excluded, limited or modified are not affected
Michael Gigl by this disclaimer.
Managing Editor
Teresa Faudon

w w w.fsc.org / SGS- COC-003717 - SGS- COC-003710

www.austria.info 3
 Map

Austria
at a glance

BREGENZ INNSBRUCK KLAGENFURT SALZBURG GRAZ

GENERAL INFORMATION
FACTS ON AUSTRIA

AREA 32,383 mi2

POPULATION 8.2 m.

CAPITAL VIENNA

LANGUAGE GERMAN

TIME ZONE CENTRAL EUROPE TIME (CET) Germany

CURRENCY € = 100 CENT)
EURO (1€

FEDERAL STATES POPULATION STATE CAPITAL AREAS

VIENNA 1.66 m. VIENNA 160 mi2

Vorarlberg
LOWER AUSTRIA 1.59 m. ST. PÖLTEN 7,403 mi2

BURGENLAND 280,300 EISENSTADT 1,531 mi2 Tirol

STYRIA 1.20 m. GRAZ 6,329 mi2
Liechtenstein
PHOTOS: AUSTRIAN TOURIST OFFICE; LINZ TOURISM

UPPER AUSTRIA 1.40 m. LINZ 4,626 mi2

SALZBURG 529,600 SALZBURG 2,762 mi2

CARINTHIA 560,400 KLAGENFURT 3,682 mi2

Switzerland Italy
TIROL 700,400 INNSBRUCK 4,883 mi2

VORARLBERG 364,900 BREGENZ 1,004 mi2

4 www.austria.info
 Map

LINZ ST. PÖLTEN EISENSTADT VIENNA AUSTRIA

Czech Republic

Slovakia
Upper Austria

Lower Austria

Hungary
nd
enla

Styria
Burg

Salzburg

East Tirol
Carinthia

Slovenia www.austria.info 5
History
2 3
996 976-1246
Austria’s name appears in “Ostarrichi” document The Babenbergs expand their territory
Experience Austria’s Imperial Past
ustria is the perfect place to experience history first hand. From archaeological
A excavations to open-air museums and countless exhibitions, Austria’s eventful
history from the Roman era to the present day is apparent everywhere. Not only
are the Austrians acutely aware of their heritage, they also incorporate it into everyday
life through cherished traditions and stories that are passed on from generation to
generation. As a result, the country’s historical artifacts, buildings and sites are
painstakingly preserved and renovated, offering visitors and everyone interested a
glimpse into an exciting and varied past.
6 www.austria.info
4 5
1278 1438-1806
Austria is hereditary fief of the Habsburgs Habsburgs rule the Holy Roman Empire
In 1991, the discovery of a mummified Stone Age man frozen in an Alpine glacier,
whom the Austrians lovingly call “Ötzi”, made it very clear that Austria’s history truly
is ancient. From the 7th century B.C., the territory of today’s Austria was regularly
raided and populated by belligerent Celts and Germanic tribes. Later, Romans settled
in the area, and many of today’s cities stand on Roman civil or military settlements.
PHOTOS: AUSTRIAN TOURIST OFFICE
After the collapse of the Roman Empire, Germanic tribes, Slavs, and Avars settled in
the region. Charlemagne, the first Holy Roman Emperor, established a provincial
outpost in the territory to protect his empire from eastern Magyar invaders. Over the
years, the region gained in importance and not only as a defensive bulwark. Two
dynasties, first the Babenbergs and later the Habsburgs, added territories to their main

lands through strategic marriages, heritage contracts, and
political cunning. Under Habsburg rule, the Austrian lands
eventually spanned half the globe, including Spain and its
territories in the New World. Consequently, the country
adopted many new customs and ideas, many of which thrive
today in Austrian culture.
The rule of the Habsburg ended only with World War I, and it
took the country a while to form a new identity after centuries
of belonging to an ethnically diverse empire. After the dark
years of World War II, when Austria was part of the Third
Reich, the Second Republic was formed in 1955 and in the
50 years that followed, Austria established itself as a stable
and peaceful country rich in culture and history.
You can experience some of Austria’s history yourself when
you visit the various historical sites in Austria. The Wachau
Region, for example, is the site of one of the most famous
archaeological finds in Austria, a famous figurine named the
Venus of Willendorf, which was created around 25,000 BC.
Hallstatt, a picturesque lakeside town, was the main site of an
Iron Age culture with the same name. The Roman civilization left
its traces as well. You can visit excavation sites in Vienna, or at
the nearby Open Air Museum Petronell, the site of a former
Roman army camp and important civilian town.
While the remnants of ancient Rome are impressive to visit,
the medieval castles that are scattered all across the country
will transport you back to a time when knights in shining
armor were supposed to defend their ladies and peasant
servants from hostile invaders. Mostly though, they fortified
their castles, not only to ward off Turkish armies, but also to
protect their interests from equally ambitious political
enemies. The ruins of Duernstein Castle, where Richard the
Lionhearted was held captive, overlook the picturesque
Wachau Valley, which was then a major thoroughfare for
knights on their way to some Crusade or other.
6 7
1804 20th Century 2001
Franz I assumes the title of Austrian Emperor Austria finds a new identity after two world wars Austria adopts the EURO
-| 1 Baroque library at Admont Monastery, Styria
-| 2 Ostarrichi document at the National Library, Vienna
-| 3 Klosterneuburg: Babenberg family tree
-| 4 The Golden Roof in Innsbruck, seat of Emperor Maximilian I.
-| 5 Schönbrunn Palace, Vienna; Former summer residence of the Habsburgs
PHOTOS: AUSTRIAN TOURIST OFFICE
-| 6 Crown of the Austrian Empire at the Secular Imperial Treasury, Vienna
-| 7 Old meets new when a medieval roofscape contrasts the futuristic Kunsthaus in Graz
History
Castles, however, are not the only remnants of the Middle
Ages worth visiting. Hall in Tirol, for example, used to be an
important mining town and the site of the royal mint. Here the
first Thaler was minted, in its day, it was one of the most
important coins in Europe. Learned monks vast libraries in
abbeys and monasteries, which held vast libraries. Many of
those monasteries have been altered over time, but original
structures can still be made out, and the libraries, such as
the one in the imposing Melk Abbey, display examples of
particularly valuable hand-painted manuscripts.
When the emperor of the Holy Roman Empire, Franz II,
pronounced himself Emperor of Austria, the hereditary
Austrian Empire was established. Our cities still display the
splendor and romance of these times. You can visit the
palaces, where the ruling families lived, treaties were signed,
and history was made. The spires of impressive cathedrals
give the skylines a distinctive look, and the stucco facades of
Biedermeier houses reveal glimpses of earlier lifestyles.
The prime example for a city that has preserved its historical
character to this day is, of course, Vienna. By the turn of the
21st century, Vienna has established itself as a trendsetting
metropolis with a cultural life that shows its influence all over
Europe. When you visit Vienna today, you can tour Schönbrunn
palace, the summer residence of the Imperial family, or have
a look at the formidable Neoclassical buildings, such as the
State Opera or the Parliament, that stand where the former
city wall used to be. You can walk past the Viennese
Secession buildings of Adolf Loos and Otto Wagner, visit
exhibitions of Wiener Werkstätte furniture, or dance to Johann
Strauss’s waltzes at one of the countless Viennese balls. You
will notice that the Viennese live and love their history as
much as they embrace innovation and change.
Spectacular Castles in Austria
• Ambras Palace, Innsbruck
The beautiful Renaissance palace accommodates the
oldest art and armory collection of Europe.
www.khm.at/en/ambras-castle
• Hochosterwitz Castle, Carinthia
Carinthia’s landmark, an extraordinary enclosure with
14 castle gates, was first documented in 860.
www.burg-hochosterwitz.or.at
• Hohenwerfen Castle, SalzburgerLand
Built in the 11th century, the former archbishop’s defense
fortress houses a museum and falconry.
www.salzburg-burgen.at/en/werfen
• Riegersburg, Styria
This mighty castle thrones on a 482 meter high volcano.
Built in the 11th century, the Riegersburg has never been
conquered. www.riegersburg.com
www.austria.info 7
Vienna Editor’s Pick: Take the time to enjoy the atmosphere of a typical Viennese coffeehouse.
These Viennese institutions are known for their many varieties of coffee and exquisite
pastries. There is scarcely a guest who hasn’t, at least once, lost track of time because he
grew immersed in his newspaper or became involved in lively conversation. It was because
of this atmosphere that many famous Austrian writers such as Karl Kraus did most of their
writing at the coffeehouse.

www.wiener-kaffeehaus.at

PHOTOS: EDITOR’S PICK: AUSTRIAN TOURIST OFFICE; FOLLOWING PAGE: VIENNA TOURIST BOARD/ROBERT OSMARK

8 www.austria.info
 Editor’s Pick: Vienna’s very walkable city center has various shopping areas, each with a
unique flair. Stroll along the Graben and the Kärntnerstrasse to find design stores and fashion
boutiques. It will be worth your while to explore the side streets, as this is where many out-
Vienna
of-the-ordinary shops and outlets have sprung up recently.

To find your way around this and other shopping areas, go to www.vienna.info.

Take
Skrein
www.skrein.at
Vienna
Home!
Join us on a tour through our beautiful Danube metropolis
and discover the secret of Vienna’s charming atmosphere.
Experience the fascinating world of music, culture, joie de
vivre, style, and charm that makes Vienna so special.
Engage all your senses and enjoy everything Vienna has A. E. Köchert Juweliere
to offer! www.koechert.com

Whether you are looking for a souvenir to bring back

home, or just want to pamper yourself with a well-
deserved present, look for the label WIEN PRODUCTS to
Augarten find high-quality products with a distinct Viennese touch.
www.augarten.at
WIEN PRODUCTS stands for a variety of Viennese
companies that subscribe to the same philosophy: they all
emphasize the importance of outstanding craftsmanship,
Mühlbauer
Österreichische Werkstätten the highest standards of quality, and outstanding design. www.muehlbauer.at
www.austrianarts.com

Their products range from precious and custom-made

jewelry to stylish accessories and exquisite china, from
highest quality furniture to culinary delicacies. Even
several Vienna cultural institutions, such as the Viennese
Boys Choir and the Spanish Riding School are part of the
WIEN PRODUCTS brand.

The wonderful thing about WIEN PRODUCTS is that no

L. Jarosinski & J. Vaugoin matter what product you decide on, you can be sure that it
www.vaugoin.com
represents part of the fascinating aura of Vienna, so you can
take a piece of Vienna with you, wherever you go.

WIEN PRODUCTS is a project of the Vienna Chamber of

Commerce & Industry. It was founded in 1995 with the goal
of supporting the export efforts of selected Viennese
consumer goods manufacturers. The 55 companies Ludwig Reiter
www.ludwigreiter.at
currently associated with WIEN PRODUCTS produce goods
of outstanding quality, provide excellent service, and seek to
incorporate Vienna’s unique flair and sense of aesthetics in
their products.

Further information about

Florian Ladstätter
WIEN PRODUCTS
www.beatica.com is available on the Internet at
www.wienproducts.at or from the
WIEN PRODUCTS Service Center,
TAKE VIENNA HOME
tel.: +011 43 1 51450 1517

J. & L. Lobmeyr
www.lobmeyr.at 9

www.wienproducts.at
Vienna
Love Life, Live Creativity in Vienna
Throughout the Seasons
Emotion, creativity, and tradition – this unmistakable “Viennese mix” awaits visitors of Vienna in every season. Tradition and modernity harmonize here as in no
other city, turning Vienna into a paradise for people who love to explore and enjoy life.
Winter: Vienna hosts more than 300
balls every year such as the Imperial
Ball, the Coffee Brewers’ Ball, and the
world-famous Opera Ball. And it is not
only about the traditional waltz—
contemporary sounds also have their
place. A break at a cozy Viennese coffee
house during a leisurely shopping trip in
the city is highly recommended, as is
the princely service at the imperial and
royal (k.u.k.) court pastry shop Demel or
at one of the many other former
purveyors to the court. Enter the “shop
& win” campaign in January and
February, and you might win first prize:
a luxury trip to Vienna for two and
10,000 Euros in spending money. There
are also instant prizes for anyone
turning the wheel of fortune at the
Tourist Information Office.
10 www.austria.info
“Vienna has succeeded in preserving its traditions and combining them with the spirit of modern
times.” Elisabeth Gürtler, owner of the legendary Hotel Sacher.
Spring: A burst of colors and creation
can be found not only in Vienna’s parks
and markets but also in fashion
boutiques and modern galleries of the
new artists’ neighborhood around
Vienna’s Naschmarkt. Fans of imperial
splendor will love Schönbrunn Palace—
Empress Sissi’s former summer
residence. Spring is perfect for exploring
this Baroque complex, which contains
an enchanting park, the Palm House,
the elevated Gloriette, and a beautiful
zoo which dates back to 1752. Athletes
can demonstrate their hiking, skating,
and biking skills or participate in the
Vienna City Marathon.
Summer: The action in Vienna is on the
streets, during events at the
MuseumsQuartier and on the city
beaches, cycling paths and recreational
areas along the Danube Canal. And, of
course, during Europe’s largest party,
the Danube Island Festival at the end of
June, and at the Music Film Festival on
Rathausplatz, one of the hot spots in
July and August, where you can sample
local and international cuisine and view
classical music performances on a huge
outdoor screen. Admirers of the old
masters will be fascinated by the
collections in the Albertina and the
Museum of Fine Arts.
PHOTOS: MRS. GUERTLER © WIENTOURISMUS / HERTHA HURNAUS; SCHOENBRUNN © WIEN TOURISMUS/ MAXUM; MUSEUMSQUARTIER © WIENTOURISMUS/ ULLI KOSCHER; CITY HALL © WIENTOURISMUS/KARL THOMAS
Autumn: During the “vienna, wine &
design” campaign in October and
November, an extensive program
including a game with prizes—all
about Viennese wines and young
Viennese design—make autumn even
more attractive. A hot tip: During
Blickfang (literally: “eye catcher”), the
Museum for Applied Arts (MAK) turns into
a design department store for three days.
Starting in mid-November, the Magic of
Advent in front of City Hall and many
other Christmas Markets offer delicious
punch as well as arts and crafts. And on
the New Year’s Eve Path, the New Year
starts exceptionally well.
 Editor's Pick: Be sure to purchase a Vienna Card, which grants you 72 hours of free public
transportation and reduced entry to a lot of museums and other attractions. Vienna
www.wienkarte.at/EN/

DON’T MISS:
• Vienna Boys’ Choir
The famous boys’ choir (founded in 1498!) has delighted
audiences the world over for more than 500 years.
www.wsk.at
PHOTOS: WINE CELLAR © WIENTOURISMUS/ LUKAS BECK; VIENNA BOY’S CHOIR © WIENTOURISMUS/ CLAUDIO ALESSANDRI; ALBERTINA © WIENTOURISMUS / LOIS LAMMERHUBER
• Museum of Fine Arts
The Museum of Fine Arts houses one of the world’s
foremost art collections, including the largest collection of
Bruegels in the world.

• Albertina
The Albertina boasts an exceptional collection of graphic
arts, with over 60,000 drawings and a million prints.
www.albertina.at
• MuseumsQuartier (MQ)
Modern art in the former Imperial Stables and
contemporary museum buildings, with the world’s largest
Egon Schiele collection in the Leopold Museum.
www.mqw.at
• Museum for Applied Art / Contemporary Art (MAK)
Design is the main focus of the MAK. Furniture, glass, china,
silver, and textiles from the Middle Ages to the present day,
crafts from the Wiener Werkstätte, bentwood furniture by
Thonet and Art Nouveau highlights are on display.
www.mak.at
• Belvedere Palace
This Baroque jewel actually consists of two palaces, and
houses the Austrian Gallery, where you can admire
Gustav Klimt’s masterpiece “The Kiss”.
ww.belvedere.at
• Vienna State Opera
One of the world’s leading opera houses—an architectural
masterpiece and home to every star of the international
world of opera.
www.wiener-staatsoper.at
www.khm.at
• Giant Ferris Wheel
The Giant Ferris Wheel in the Vienna Prater—made
famous by Harry Lime in Carol Reed’s filming of “The
Third Man”—is open all year long.
www.wienerriesenrad.com
• Imperial Palace
The Imperial Apartments, the Sissy Museum, the Imperial Contact:
Silver Collection and the Spanish Riding School can all Vienna Tourist Board
be seen at Vienna’s Imperial Palace.
www.hofburg-wien.at
1020 Vienna
• St. Stephen’s Cathedral
St. Stephen’s Cathedral, Austria’s most eminent Gothic Tel: +011 43 1 24 555
edifice, houses a wealth of art treasures. Climb the 343 Fax: +011 43 1 24 555-666
steps to the tower-keeper’s room of St. Stephen’s and
enjoy a truly breathtaking view. info@vienna.info
www.stephanskirche.at www.vienna.info
• Tip: In 2009, Vienna commemorates the 200th
anniversary of the death of Joseph Haydn, who started
his career as a member of the Vienna Boys’ Choir.
Authentic sights and performances at the highest level
are guaranteed. And in 2010-2011, Vienna will
celebrate the life and work of another world-famous
composer who lived and worked in Vienna:
Gustav Mahler.

www.austria.info 11
Vienna Editor’s Pick: The famous Spanish Riding School in Vienna is the only institution in the
world that has cultivated classical equitation for over 430 years. Their evening performances
are a must-see. Alternatively, you can also visit their morning exercises, when riders put the
Lipizzan stallions through their paces.

www.srs.at

Hotel am Brillantengrund
Our hotel is located in a charming Biedermeier building in a quiet
Vienna Residence Orchestra
residential area of Vienna, only a short walk from the shopping
district of the Mariahilfer Strasse and other major sights of the city.
Mozart & Strauss Concert
The little garden in our courtyard is the perfect place to have One of the best orchestras of Vienna’s music world will take you on
breakfast or just relax after a city tour or business meeting. a journey through time back to the days of Imperial Vienna. The
concerts are held at beautiful historic locations such as the
Bed & Breakfast Prices: Winter Summer venerable Palais Auersperg.
Single room €69 to 156 €76 to 156
DAILY • 6:30 PM • 8:15 PM
Double room €79 to 200 €88 to 200
Auersperg Palace
Contact Information: Auerspergstrasse 1, 1080 Wien
Hotel am Brillantengrund*** Phone: +43 1 817 21 78
A-1070 Vienna, Bandgasse 4 Fax: +43 1 813 28 65
Phone: +43 1 523 3662 • Fax: +43 1 523 3662 83 E-Mail: konzert@residenzorchester.at
E-Mail: am.brillantengrund@chello.at www.wro.at
www.brillantengrund.at

12 www.austria.info

PHOTOS: AUSTRIAN TOURIST OFFICE; GRAFENEGG PALACE © PETER RIGAUD; BREGENZ FESTIVAL © ROBERT FORSTER
Austria’s Top
11 Music Fesitvals
Immerse yourself in the magical atmosphere of
Austria’s great festivals
Music
Castle Grafenegg Music Festival – Every year in August,
audiences flock to hear performances by the London Symphony
Orchestra and the likes amid the beautiful setting of a centuries-old
castle and adjacent park. www.grafenegg.at
Innsbruck Summer Festival – Historically informed
performances of Old Music are the focus of this festival in the
Tirolean capital. www.altemusik.at
Styriarte – Famed conductor Nikolaus Harnoncourt is the father
of this festival which features performances of the Concentus
Musicus Wien, an ensemble performing Early Music on period
instruments and the extraordinarily dynamic Chamber Orchestra of
Europe. www.styriarte.com
Continued on page 14
www.austria.info 13
Music Editor’s Pick: For a special travel experience, consider a ride on the "Majestic Imperator
Train de Luxe," a veritable palace on rails, built according to the original plans of the Imperial
Train from 1891. The European Imperial Train is the perfect way to travel between Austrian
cities, while the Imperial Dinner Train is perfect for gourmet excursions outside of Vienna.

www.imperialtrain.com

Austria’s Top 11 Music Festivals Continued

Salzburg Festival – Featuring opera, concerts and drama, the Salzburg Festival Operafestival St. Margarethen – An old Roman quarry is the setting for this
enjoys worldwide recognition as one of the most outstanding classical music events exciting summer festival in Burgenland. International stars and popular operas
today. www.salzburgfestival.at guarantee a spectacular experience. www.ofs.at

Summer Festival at Lake Constance – Known as the “Bregenzer Festspiele”, Mörbisch Festival on the Lake – The picturesque town of Mörbisch is the
this event draws crowds with opera and concert performances by the Vienna location of the world’s greatest operetta Festival. Once you have seen the
Symphonic Orchestra and the largest floating stage in the world. impressive open air stage you will be captivated.
www.bregenzerfestspiele.com http://www.seefestspiele-moerbisch.at
Tirolean Festival Erl – With the Tirolean mountains as an impressive backdrop,
Hadyn Festival – The works of Joseph Haydn are at the heart of the festival in
the performances of Wagner’s oeuvre are truly awe-inspiring and receive
Eisenstadt, where Hayden was head of the court ensemble at the Esterhazy castle.
outstanding reviews. www.tirolerfestspiele.at
www.haydnfestival.at
Schubertiade Schwarzenberg – The annual meeting place for an international
The Linz Klangwolke (Cloud of Sound) – The opening event for the Bruckner
audience that seeks an exceptional cultural experience: hearing music performed
Festival in Linz is a spectacle of pioneering classical music performances and
by outstanding artists in idyllic surroundings. www.schubertiade.at
electronic visualization. www.klangwolke.at
Vienna Festival Weeks – Encompassing everything from symphonic concerts
and opera to theater performances and exhibitions, this significant festival spices
up Vienna’s cultural life during the summer. www.festwochen.at

PHOTOS: AUSTRIAN TOURIST OFFICE; EDITOR’S PICK: IMPERIAL TRAIN

14 www.austria.info
 Editor’s Pick: If you plan on doing a lot of sightseeing, the Salzburg Card and the
SalzburgerLand Card are great money savers: For a small fee, you get free public
transportation plus free access to major museums and attractions. The cards are available
Salzburg
at many hotels, ticket shops, and all of the local Tourist Information offices.

For more information, go to www.salzburg.info and www.salzburgerlandcard.com.

Music, Mountains, and More…

Explore the wonders of Salzburg and the SalzburgerLand
he beauty of its landscape and outstanding Baroque cathedral in which many of his works were first The beauty of Salzburg city and the surrounding

T cultural events are what make this province and

its capital a visitor magnet second only to
Vienna. A region of mountains, charming Alpine lakes,
and rolling hills, SalzburgerLand is located right in the
heart of Austria, with Salzburg City only a short train
ride away from both Munich and Vienna.
A walk through Salzburg City
A jewel of Baroque architecture, Salzburg City is
nestled between the foothills of the Alps, where rich
salt deposits made it an important and prosperous
trading site. Today, a walk through Salzburg City feels
like a walk back in time, thanks to its well-preserved
Old Town and extensive pedestrian areas. Accents of
PHOTOS: TOURISMUS SALZBURG GMBH; SALZBURGERLAND TOURISMUS GES.M.B.H.
performed, or simply soak up the city’s atmosphere,
which still conveys some of the spirit of his time.
Salzburg is also known around the world for its
countryside has been captured in the acclaimed
motion picture “The Sound of Music” and special
tours take you to the movie’s different locations, such
sophisticated cultural offerings with more than 4,000 as the Nonnberg Convent, the Mirabell Gardens, the
events throughout the year, most notably the Sound of Music Gazebo in Hellbrunn. It is the perfect
renowned Salzburg Festival, the Mozart Week and the way to get a glimpse of the region’s culture and enjoy
Easter and Whitsun Festivals. the breathtaking scenery.
TOURISMUS SALZBURG GMBH
SalzburgerLand – where the Sound Salzburg Information
of Music is still alive Auerspergstraße 6, A-5020 Salzburg
Mountains, lakes, rivers, forests, picturesque villages, Tel. +011 43 662 88987 0
and affluent towns characterize the province of Fax: +011 43 662 88987 32
SalzburgerLand. Each region, from the foothills of the tourist@salzburg.info
http://www.salzburg.info

Alps to the Hohe Tauern National Park, is special in its

modern architecture perfectly contrast the Baroque
cityscape and give it a touch of cosmopolitan flair.
The majestic fortress Hohensalzburg, for example,
which dates back to the Middle Ages, is perched on
a mountain directly opposite of the Mönchsberg,
where the renowned Museum of Modern Art
overlooks the entire city.
Salzburg is full of performing spaces for classical
music, and each day, at least one of them seems to
resonate with the music of Mozart. Walk in Mozart’s
footsteps and visit his birthplace, see the remarkable
own way. Preserving and protecting this natural SalzburgerLand
beauty is a great tradition in the SalzburgerLand. The Tourismus Ges.m.b.H.
farmers there have known for ages that they must Wiener Bundesstr. 23
care for the land, which is the basis of their existence. A-5300 Hallwang bei Salzburg
This is the reason why in all of Europe, Tel. +011 43 662 6688 0
Fax +011 43 662 6688 66
SalzburgerLand has the highest number of farmers
info@salzburgerland.com
who employ organic farming techniques.
www.salzburgerland.com
In the vicinity of the city, discover the crystal clear
lakes in Salzkammergut Lake District, the world’s
largest ice caves, the salt mines, the Celtic town of
Hallein, and the thermal springs in the Gastein Valley.

www.austria.info 15
Art & Design
2 3
Art & Design
Pass from the old masters to the postmodernists on a tour of Austria’s most important
museums and galleries.
he 2004 enlargement of the European Union placed Austria and its people at the
T center of the continent’s economic system and cultural scene, making the
country one of the great contemporary art centers of the world. Everywhere you
go, you’ll find artists and craftspeople building a new lexicon upon the old. Easily and
efficiently traversed by train, car, or foot, the famously beautiful cities and breathtaking
landscapes of Austria offer the traveler old-world charm and new-world excitement.
Starting in Vienna, you’ll experience a unique confluence of the old and new art worlds.
The city boasts the greatest density of art museums and galleries in Austria. Check
into a hotel and spend days viewing dozens of major collections all within ten minute’s
16 www.austria.info
4 5
PHOTOS: 1) OLAFUR ELIASSON, THE MEDIATED MOTION, 2001; 2) HOTEL ALTSTADT 3) EGON SCHIELE @ LEOPOLD
walking distance of one another. And be sure bring to your appetite. The museums and
their award-winning restaurants feed body and soul alike. Be sure to parade from one
MUSEUM, WIEN; 4) AND 5) AUSTRIAN TOURIST OFFICE
gallery to the next in Vienna’s celebrated “Gallery Walkabout” in which several galleries
host exhibitions on the same night.
When you’re ready for a beautiful trip into the country, follow the Danube a few miles
north of Vienna and visit the Essl Museum, an impressive exhibition space designed by
Heinz Tesar. Its 6,000 images constitute the most comprehensive collection of postwar
Austrian paintings. After strolling through the museum, conclude your daytrip with a tour
of Klosterneuburg. The neighboring grand monastery abounds in cultural treasures.

In Linz European Capital of Culture 2009, you’ll encounter the
Ars Electronica Center, or the “Museum of the Future,” as it
is called. Fifty interactive exhibits demonstrate how electronic
technology produces moving, cutting-edge art.
Famous for its music and Baroque architecture, beautiful
Salzburg also boasts an important collection of modern art,
including works by Klimt and Kokoschka. In 2004, the Museum
der Moderne expanded significantly. Perched atop the
Mönchsberg, the marble-clad building offers views of the
Salzach Valley and is a unique setting for this vibrant new gallery.
Farther west, in Vorarlberg’s capital Bregenz, you’ll find one
of Europe’s premier museums of contemporary art, Kunsthaus
Bregenz. There, sunlight filters through glass-paneled ceilings
into serene, polished-concrete chambers to illuminate works
by internationally renowned artists. A dialogue exists between
the paintings and the exhibition space, out of which has
grown a truly unique experience of contemporary art.
Similarly, Austrian design is experiencing a veritable surge in
popularity. You’ll find magnificently designed wares in shops
throughout the country, but be sure to visit the factories too,
where you can meet and watch the craftspeople at work.
Discover a wide range of ornamental products at Swarovski,
the Tirolean manufacturer famous for its endlessly inventive
use of crystal. Visit the Swarovski Crystal Worlds near
Innsbruck and immerse yourself in this sparkling world. In
nearby Kufstein, a picturesque town near Innsbruck, watch
Riedel glassblowers craft what Robert Parker in The Wine
Advocate calls, “The finest glasses for both technical and
hedonistic purposes.” Claus Riedel went down in history when
he designed this mouthblown glass that captures the aroma
of wine in a balloon-shaped bowl.
In Vienna you’ll find Wiener Werkstätte, founded in 1903 by
Josef Hoffmann and Koloman Moser to develop and execute
6 7
PHOTOS: 6) WIEN PRODUCTS / BACKHAUSEN INTERIOR TEXTILES; 7) ARS ELECTRONICA CENTER EXHIBITION; DIE TITANEN;
-| 1 Installation by Olafur Eliasson at the KUB
-| 2 Room designed by Matteo Thun at the Hotel Altstadt
-| 3 Egon Schiele at the Leopold Museum, Vienna
-| 4 Inside the Museum of Fine Arts, Vienna
-| 5 Hand-painted Augarten figurines
-| 6 High-quality upholstery fabrics by Backhausen are used all over the world
ZEITGENOSSEN (AT) SOURCE: RUBA.
-| 7 Façade of the Ars Electronica Center in Linz
Art & Design
designs on the guiding principles of elegance, precision, and
function. The products of the Wiener Werkstätte—whether
couches, lamps or handbags—remain classics of modern
design even today.
It is remarkable how many Austrian companies continue to
produce locally. The Austrian porcelain manufacturer Augarten
looks back on a history of almost 300 years of producing
tableware. Made in Vienna, this porcelain is famous for its
filigree shapes and exquisite details. Vienna also produces
musical instruments of the highest quality. Devotees of the
Bösendorfer piano’s dark, rich, sound should tour its Vienna
salon to play every model—from the awe-inspiring Imperial
Grand to the dainty Upright. The production facility south of
the city is open to visitors.
When it’s time to take a rest, sip on some Viennese coffee
and enjoy the sublime comfort of Austrian functional design.
Viennese craftsman Michael Thonet’s bentwood chairs furnish
many of the country’s cafes and coffee houses, providing
comfort and a simple grace that prompted Le Corbusier to
remark, “Never has anything been created more elegant and
better in its conception, more precise in its execution, and
more excellently functional.”
Austria was not only setting the pace for style and design 100
years ago; it still does so today, and this is reflected in the
VIENNA DESIGN WEEK, where a vast variety of works by
domestic designers is on display. The event is held annually,
with exhibitions, events, and discussions that attract more
than 10,000 visitors.
Austria offers so much in contemporary design and art; you
could spend a lifetime exploring. Learn more by visiting
www.austria.info/art and see what Austrian destinations
have to offer.
Design Finds at Vienna’s
Museum Shops
• The MQ Shop at the MuseumsQuartier offers a wide
selection of Viennese design pieces and original gift
items. www.mqw.at
• The shop at the Albertina offers postcards and
prints with motifs from its famous graphics collection
as well as clothing, jewelry, and design products.
www.albertina.at
• The Museum of Applied Arts presents highlights of
applied art throughout history. Its MAK Design Shop
commissions objects from artists and supplies prints
on demand. www.makdesignshop.at
• The objects presented at the KunstHausWien
MuseumShop were designed using only ecologically
acceptable materials. www.kunsthauswien.com
www.austria.info 17
Modern Architecture
A Short Architecture
Tour Through Austria
ustria’s major architectural attractions are an open invitation to travel back

A through the ages. The country is strewn with castles, palaces, and monasteries,
silent witnesses to a colorful past. Architecture enthusiasts travel to Austria to
experience brilliant modern architecture in dramatic landscapes and historic settings.
At the same time, Austria is a pioneer of ecological building. While the architectural
themes may vary from province to province, these buildings all address the problem
of relating to the natural surroundings and to the existing architecture.
In Vorarlberg (1), the country’s westernmost state, one finds a veritable Alpine
laboratory of new design and construction. The most conspicuous features of
contemporary building here are the rational use of resources and a continuity that
goes back directly to longheld traditions.
Given that Tirol is known for its hospitality, most of the exciting new buildings here
1 cater to the needs of visitors. Highlights are Zaha Hadid’s Bergisel ski jump (2) and
the new Hungerburgbahn mountain railway in Innsbruck, the branches of the
MPreis supermarket chain (which have garnered numerous architectural awards),
and the Ötztal’s Aquadome, one of Tirol’s premiere spas.
A stroll through the Old Town of Krems can become a time warp to the Middle
Ages, while the town’s “Kunsthalle” exhibition facility brings you right back to the
present. Lower Austria’s most spectacular architectural gem is undoubtedly the
Loisium (3), a sprawling multimedia wine museum with an adjoining designer
hotel, the work of architect Steven Holl.
Upper Austria’s outstanding contemporary building is the Lentos Art Museum (4)
beside the Danube in Linz, European Capital of Culture 2009. An incisive building
with clear-cut lines, the Lentos features a kind of larger-than-life 130-meter wide
bridge harboring a space for art that reflects the waters of the Danube.
In Vienna, the wealth of opulent public architecture testifies to the city’s erstwhile
2 3
status as the capital of a vast empire. That it has mastered the leap into the
twenty-first century with aplomb is demonstrated by, for instance, Hans Hollein’s
Haas Haus, a post-modernist commercial center facing St. Stephen’s Cathedral
(5), the most venerable architectural monument in the city. Be sure to visit the

PHOTOS: 1) METZLER KAESE MOLKE EGG © FOTO FELDER; 3) LOISIUM/ROBERT HERBSI; 4) LINZ TOURISM; 6) GRAZ TOURISM; 2 AND 5) AUSTRIAN TOURIST OFFICE
MuseumsQuartier—once the Imperial Stables—which continues the debate
between the proponents of traditional and innovative architecture.
South of Vienna lies the city of Graz (6), a renaissance jewel on the Mur River. Though
not as well known as Prague, it is every bit as enchanting as the Czech capital. But
visit the Kunsthaus to see just how starkly modern architecture contrasts the
4 traditional cityscape. Its bubble-glass skin has earned it the
nickname “Friendly Alien.”
For more information on art, architecture and design in
Austria, go to www.austria.info/art.

18 www.austria.info
 Editor’s Pick: Getting around Austria is easy with the highly convenient public transportation
system. A train ride from Vienna to Graz, for example, takes only two hours and thirty
minutes. And while you can relax in a comfortable seat, you can enjoy the beautiful
landscape of the Semmering.

For train schedules and fares within Austria, go to www.oebb.at.

The Austrian Tourist Office Recommends

Unique Travel Ideas at the
Austria Travel Boutique
Austria offers many unforgettable vacation experiences. Discover
a selected few in our Travel Boutique that go far beyond the
ordinary. These selected travel programs will allow you to
experience some of the best Austria has to offer and are operated
by some of our most trusted travel partners. With prices starting at
US$ 690, our selection also fits your budget.
• Walking & Hiking • Historic Cities & Towns
• Wine & Gourmet • Biking in Austria

www.austria.info/bestof

How about a New Passion?

graz.
You won’t find many cities with a southern feel
and lots of sunshine that offers as much variety
in such a conveniently small area.
Modern architecture contrasts beautifully with
the charming alleys and squares of the medieval
city center. Around each corner you’ll discover
PHOTOS: EDITOR’S PICK: AUSTRIAN TOURIST OFFICE
Apart from a fantastic blend of Renaissance, Contact Information:
Gothic and Baroque buildings with ones Graz Tourist Information Office
exhibiting cutting edge architecture, such as the Herrengasse 16
bubble-like structure housing a new art- 8010 Graz / Austria
exhibition space, you will also find that Graz
offers many outstanding culinary and cultural Tel: +011 43 316 8075 0

hidden lanes, picturesque courtyards and ornate
facades. This is why the core of the city has
been added to the UNESCO list of World Cultural
Heritage Sites as “Central Europe’s best
preserved city center”.
experiences. Try some of the local delicacies, Fax: +011 43 316 8075 15
and make sure to include a visit to the wine info@graztourismus.at
regions around Graz to round out your stay. But
be warned: a short, harmless fling with Graz can www.visitgraz.com
turn into a serious relationship. Because once
you’ve fallen in love with Graz, you’ll come back
again and again.

www.austria.info 19
Food & Wine
1 2
3 4
When Modern Meets Classical
Futuristic Wines in a Storybook Land
n 2009, Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate awarded an Austrian Blaufränkisch
I 95 points—the varietal’s first-ever rating of “extraordinary.”
That the 2006 wine from Austria achieved this milestone is no surprise: the
country’s distinctive red wines have been rocketing steadily up the charts for a
decade—catching up to their well-regarded white counterparts. What is
surprising is how Austria’s wine region—with its outstanding Rieslings, Grüner
Veltliners, Zweigelts, and other unique varietals—continues to remain a
deliciously best-kept secret.
20 www.austria.info
5 6
PHOTOS: 1 © ULRICH SCHWARZ; 2 © SABINE JACKSON; 3 © LOISIUM/R. HERBST; 4 © AWMB/KOHL;
5 © JÜRGEN SKARWAN; 6 © AWMB / FABER; 7 © AWMB/ LUKAN; 8 © KRACHER WINERY
Indeed, Austrian Wine Country is boundless and untrammeled—despite its
accessibility. Burgenland—home to Blaufränkisch (earthy reds), Zweigelt (rich,
gamy reds), and Trockenbeerenauslese (spine-tingling dessert wines)—lies one
hour southeast of Vienna. Situated around Lake Neusiedl/Neusiedlersee
(pronounced “noy-zeed-ler-zay”), Burgenland is lush, green, flat, and wonderfully
alive. Storks abound, nesting alongside steeples and pointed roofs.
Burgenland’s historic villages step straight out of a storybook, but a new horizon
is emerging, too. It’s clear in the region’s finer restaurants, where compulsively
fresh, local ingredients (i.e. delicate lake fish, fork-tender rabbit) and traditional

preparations undergo modernization—a foam here, a sprig
of micro-greens there.
Change is evident in the landscape, too. Dramatic, stark
monoliths rise high above the green fields—marring their
storybook simplicity. Head toward these modern marvels:
they represent some of Burgenland’s best wineries and
vinotheks (tasting rooms). Make an afternoon of it: go to a
vinothek, taste the day’s selections, pick out a bottle, and
set up a picnic. Don’t forget your binoculars!
Vienna is no slouch when it comes to wine, either. Mozart
and Klimt remain powerful draws to this great cultural
capital, but the city is fast-becoming a wine destination,
filled with ultra-hip wine bars, cozy heurigen (family-run
taverns), and temples of Modern Austrian Cuisine. The most
famous among these is Steirereck, and it demonstrates
precisely how well the region’s natural abundance—such
as a lean, juicy cut of Alpine ox—pairs with Austrian
varietals. Wine even stars in Vienna’s hotels, such as at
Hotel Rathaus Wein & Design, where each of the
streamlined boutique-style rooms is named after an
Austrian winery.
Ninety minutes west of Vienna is a different wine region
entirely. Wachau and Kamp Valleys line the Danube. Like
the rice terraces of Asia, their terrain is steep, breathtaking,
and vividly green. Rather than flatlands, here are tier upon
tier of grapevines—a dramatic backdrop for quaint villages,
deep blue water, and the occasional castle rising into the
clouds. Explore this scenery on bicycle or foot—or float
from Krems to Melk on a majestic riverboat.
7 8
-| 1 Liszt Center Raiding
-| 2 Winemaker H. Schröck
-| 3 Loisium Cellar World
-| 4 Wiener Schnitzel
-| 5 Klosterneuburg Abbey
-| 6 Wine tavern
-| 7 Grape
PHOTO: MAP © OEWM
-| 8 Lake Neusiedl
Food & Wine
A new generation of superstars have inherited the scenery
and craft, and their white wines are so lively that it’s safe
to say they dance in the mouth. The most famous among
them—Grüner Veltliner—are peppery enough to tickle your
tongue, ears, and throat. But overlooking the Riesling of this
mineral-driven soil—characteristically puckering, tart, and
insistent—would be a crime.
The picture-book countryside is sprinkled with architectural
feats. Designed by New York-based architect Steven Holl,
the Loisium combines a luxury resort with an Aveda spa, a
vinothek for wines from nearby Kamptal, astounding
cheeses, and a multi-level, sensory museum. Sound, sight,
smell, touch, and taste are all evoked in a tale that’s equal
parts mystical, historical, and imaginative.
If Burgenland is flat and the Wachau steep, Styria—to the
south of Vienna—is rolling green slopes dotted with
wineries. Find a Buschenschanken (rural café) and order a
platter of charcuterie: then sit on a veranda and with a glass
of Styrian Sauvignon Blanc.
To learn more about the regions, events, and wines
themselves, go to www.austria.info/wine
Jean Tang, a New York-based food writer, discovered the
Austrian wine country in 2005, and fell in love. Ms. Tang
also writes for The New York Times, New York Magazine,
and other publications. Read her work at jean-tang.com.
www.austria.info 21
Nature Paradise

2 3 4

Alpine Vistas
Recharge Your Batteries Vacationing Amid Austria’s Famously Idyllic Landscapes

wim in crystal clear lakes, enjoy a homemade meal in a cozy wine tavern in front wild, steppe like fields and rolling hills, marvel at the majestic peaks of the Alps and

S of sun-drenched vineyards, take a deep breath of fresh mountain air on top of

one of the majestic peaks of the Alps, or relax in a deck chair on board a Danube
sightseeing cruise and take in the view of hundreds of apricot trees in full bloom.
Austria’s landscapes are incredibly varied and the options are endless. It takes only
stretch your legs while walking along the even banks of Lake Constance.
And just like the open prairie and the Rockies shaped American culture and history,
Austria’s varied landscape is an inextricable part of Austrian culture. Hence the
profound respect for the environment, deep appreciation of nature and generous
PHOTOS: AUSTRIAN TOURIST OFFICE

seven hours to drive from the easternmost part of Austria to the western border with hospitality that make an Austria vacation special. It is not an accident that many
Hungary, roughly the same time it takes one to get from New York City to Pittsburgh, families have lived in a particular village or town for centuries, and hotels and
Pennsylvania. Yet, in these seven hours, you drive through several climate zones, pass guesthouses are run by the third or fourth generation of innkeepers.

22 www.austria.info

Austrian lakes have drinking water-quality, a full 13% of
farming is now organic, and many resorts introduced
ecologically responsible measures that ensure the protection
of Austria’s pristine environment.
Austria’s nature reserves are visitor magnets in which you
can ramble, cycle and explore. The majority of National Parks
are located in sparsely populated areas and provide a habitat
for a vast profusion of indigenous flora and fauna. The
National Parks’ unspoiled environment also benefits people in
search of quality rest and recreation.
One of the most notable parks is the Donau-Auen National
Park between Vienna and Bratislava, one of the few remaining
floodplain landscapes in central Europe. This “green
wilderness“ is a delightful natural environment which you
can explore on foot or by boat and encounter more than 60
species of fish, eagles, beavers and rare orchids.
Another highlight is the Hohe Tauern National Park. The
largest National Park in central Europe covers territory in the
provinces of Carinthia, Salzburg and Tirol. With mighty
mountain peaks such as the Grossglockner (Austria’s highest
peak), vast glaciers and spectacular waterfalls, the Hohe
Tauern National Park is a many-faceted natural wonder.
Explore either one of 26 rambles on themes such as “life on
an Alpine farm” and “on the trail of smugglers.”
Covering over 80% of the country, the Alps provide the ideal
backdrop for a walking tour. Austria is a paradise for leisurely
walkers, and you will find more than 31,000 miles of trails for
outdoor enthusiasts of all proficiency levels. Let your senses take
in all the different smells, sights and sounds as you wander along
hillsides splashed with the colors of wildflowers. Be sure to rest
your legs once in a while and stop at one of the many mountain
huts to enjoy the cozy atmosphere, chat with the locals and taste
some of the local specialties.
5 6
-| 1 Picturesque Hallstatt is a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site
Ideas for Great Nature Experiences
-| 2 Relaxing under a tree
• For Hikers and Outdoor Enthusiasts
-| 3 Landscape near Guessing, Burgenland
-| 4 On a bicycle tour in Lermoos, Tirol
• Explore the Danube Region on Two Wheels
-| 5 Mountain spring: Austria is famous for its excellent drinking water
-| 6 Kaiser mountain range near Kufstein, Tirol
• A Nature Paradise for Gourmets
PHOTOS: AUSTRIAN TOURIST OFFICE
Nature Paradise
Innsbruck, the capital of Tirol, is particularly charming with its
medieval flair. Architectural highlights from past and present
can be found at every corner. Its surrounding holiday villages
are a walker’s dream come true. Let a cable car whisk you up
the Patscherkofel Mountain and walk the popular Pine Tree
Trail locally known as Zirbenweg, a 4-mile-long panorama
promenade in the midst of a nature preserve. Another option
is the “Almenweg”, an exciting path that starts off as a forest
track and follows a level or gently ascending gradient between
alpine meadows and pastures.
While the Alps are also a mecca for Mountain bikers, with
Tirol and Vorarlberg offering great trails of various difficulty
levels, the gentle inclines of Upper Austria and Lower Austria
and the wide open landscapes around Lake Neusidel are the
perfect location for leisurely bike trips both long or short.
Sunny Burgenland is great for excursions on asphalt tracks
such as the Red Wine Path, or the Nature Reserve Path; or a
two day trip for a round circuit of the Neusiedler See through
reed beds, past wine cellars and to idyllic little villages. The
wine district to the north of Vienna is also ideally suited to
leisurely biking: unspoilt nature wherever you look, the cycling
paths are all dotted with inviting places to stop for a break.
Without significant gradients, the Wine Cycle Paths lead
through picturesque vineyards, away from busy roads, to
castles, palaces, museums and romantic wine cellars.
All the while, you are never far from historic city centers,
cultural events and gourmet restaurants, which makes
Austria’s provinces the ideal location for family vacations and
sophisticated outdoor adventures.
Free guided hikes are run by the famous Innsbruck Alpine
School, which even provides hiking boots and a stylish
rucksack. www.innsbruck.info
The Danube biking trail provides easy riverbank cycling.
Always close to the mighty waters of the Danube, your
path is dotted with castles, monasteries and picturesque
villages. www.donauradweg.at
Following the Cheese Route through the Bregenzerwald
of Vorarlberg is the ideal way to explore this lovely
region and its traditional—and excellent—cheeses.
www.bregenzerwald.at
www.austria.info 23
Tours
Book your Austria Vacation with
Herzerl Tours
A Taste of Vienna
A hands-on culinary tour for gourmets
The Sound of Austrian Music
Must-see attractions for classical music lovers
Wine Tasting in Austria
Walking/bus tours in Austria’s wine country.
Group Tours/Mini Groups/FIT
Susanne Servin
Tel: +800 684 8488 • Fax: +914 771 5844
Email: sms@herzerltours.com
www.herzerltours.com
24 www.austria.info
Editor’s Pick: If you want to enjoy fresh mountain air and the fantastic views over Austria’s peaks,
but don’t feel like skiing or hiking, simply take the cable car or chair lifts to get up and down the
mountain. Winter and summer, you can relax in a lounge chair on the terrace of one of the cozy
mountain huts, bask in the warm midday sun, and enjoy excellent food and refreshments.
Exquisite Austria Experiences with
Patrician Journeys
• Music Tours featuring Mozart, Haydn and Strauss
• Custom Designed Museum Experiences
• Cuisine & Wine Hotel Zuerserhof *****
• Family & Small Group Holidays Right next to the ski slopes near the exclusive village
• Honeymoons & Vow Renewals
• Charming Romantic Villages off the Beaten Path
of Zürs, our hotel offers elegant rooms and suites with
beautiful views of the breathtaking mountain
• Imperial Cities landscape. Numerous well-being facilities and
• 4* and 5* Properties or Family Owned Country Hotels excellent cuisine make both winter sports fans and
those looking for relaxation feel at home.
• Abbeys, Monasteries & Shrines
Familie Skardarasy
A-6763 Zürs am Arlberg
Patrician Journeys, Inc. Österreich – Austria
Austrian Certified Travel Specialists Tel. +011 43 5583 / 2513 0
Tel: +800 344 1443 Fax: +973 992 9804 Fax: +011 43 5583 / 3165
Email: info@patricianjourneys.com Email: hotel@zuerserhof.at
www.patricianjourneys.com www.zuerserhof.at
PHOTOS: EDITOR’S PICK: TOURISM ASSOCIATION SAALBACH HINTERGLEMM
 How to Get There: Connecting to the Arlberg is easy. Besides excellent public transportation
options (www.oebb.at), there is the Arlberg Express. During the winter season, the company
offers a shuttle service that takes you from the international airport in Zurich, Switzerland, directly
Arlberg
to all Arlberg resorts.

www.arlbergexpress.com

The Stars of the Arlberg

More than 100 years ago, the Arlberg made history as the cradle of Alpine skiing. Ever since, its five charming
villages have impressed many a visitor with their individual characters: luxurious Lech, sophisticated Zürs, cozy
Stuben, exclusive St. Christoph, and cosmopolitan St. Anton.

The Cradle of Skiing The Arlberg Gene Arlberg Cuisine

The Arlberg is undoubtedly one of the best skiing
areas worldwide. If there were a “walk of fame” for
ski regions, the star for the Arlberg would most
certainly have impressive dimensions. Inspiring
views over majestic mountain ranges, a seemingly
endless galaxy of glorious pistes, 85 cable cars and
chairlifts, and 280 kilometers of marked runs make
for delightful adventures. In addition, powder-snow
enthusiasts can look forward to 180 kilometers of
off-piste runs. No wonder that free riders view the
Arlberg as the European standard for backcountry
skiing! Between 4,200 feet and 9,200 feet above sea
level, the winter season lasts from the end of
November until the beginning of May, and excellent
snow conditions are guaranteed!
PHOTOS: HOW TO GET THERE: TOURIST OFFICE
The Arlberg gene must be the reason for the great The Arlberg has the highest density of Gault Millau
success of the region in international winter-sports toques in Europe. However, visitors to the chic ski
competitions. Its effect: To give one’s utmost, not only region not only appreciate the high quality of
when it comes to skiing. This urge has inspired skiing gastronomy when it comes to top-class and star
professionals from the pioneer of modern skiing restaurants, but also the excellent standard of the ski
Hannes Schneider, to the legendary skier Karl huts, après-ski clubs, and snack bars.
Schranz and Olympic champion Patrick Ortlieb. The
same driving force also inspires to achieve new
heights in hospitality and service. The Arlberg region
delights with an exceptional concentration of four-
and five-star hotels and award-winning restaurants.
Despite the rich diversity of the five communities,
they all have in common an uncompromising
commitment to exclusivity, which makes the cradle
of Alpine skiing a legend even in our times.

Lech Zürs Tourismus GmbH Tourismusbüro Stuben Tourismusverband

St. Anton/St. Christoph
A-6764 Lech am Arlberg A-6762 Stuben am Arlberg A-6580 St. Anton am Arlberg
Phone: +011 43 5583 2161 0 Phone: +011 43 5582 399 Phone: +011 43 5446 22690
Fax: +011 43 5583 3155 Fax: +011 43 5582 3994 Fax: +011 43 5446 2532

info@lech-zuers.at info@stuben.at info@stantonamarlberg.com

www.lech-zuers.at www.stuben.com www.stantonamarlberg.com
www.austria.info 25
Winter

2 3 4 5

Winter Magic
By Roger Toll

he jagged spine of the Alps soars skyward from the heart of Austria just as it drawn sleigh glides by silently but for the bells on the horse’s yoke. The warm interiors

T sinks deep into its national culture. This is where modern skiing was born and
from where America’s first generation of ski instructors emerged to teach the
New World the Arlberg technique, named for a region of Austria whose towns carry
of restaurants gleam through frosted windows.

such legendary names as St. Anton, St. Christoph, Zürs, and Lech.
People have been navigating the peaks and deep valleys of the Austrian Alps for
millennia. The carved-wood balconies and pastel-painted motifs on village chalets are
the inspiration behind many American ski resorts’ replications of that original Alpine
They call it Gemütlichkeit, this friendly twinkle in the eye, the warm greeting, the offer
of refreshments when you stop by an old chalet high on a mountain slope to ask
directions to a lift in the morning light.
You return for lunch, when Gemütlichkeit is in full flower. It’s as if skiing is prelude to
the real fun: the warmth of friendship, laughter, a cozy meal on a sunny terrace, below
CREDITS

charm. Under five feet of fresh snow, Austria’s mountain towns turn magical. A horse- soaring peaks, rocky arêtes, and fields of snow that surround you. Waiters squeeze

26 www.austria.info

past the wooden benches ferrying plates of dried meats,
venison carpaccio, all kinds of dumplings, plates of regional
cheeses and the occasional glass of wine or beer. Ask Austrians
what the best part of the ski day was, and they point to lunch
with their friends and family. The simple enjoyments of life.
This camaraderie built around skiing is part of the national
culture. A string of picturesque villages tucked into wooded
valleys links the skiing areas of western Austria. There,
children aspire to be ski champions, not football stars. The
annual race of the Hahnenkamm in the fashionable town of
Kitzbühel is the Super Bowl of ski racing, and fans from
throughout Europe turn the long weekend into one of the
world’s great street parties. High above the town, however,
90 miles of groomed trails across valleys and passes beckon,
a seemingly endless terrain of white landscapes and
mountain peaks.
At the bigger areas that interconnect numerous towns, skiing
becomes an adventure stretching across vast networks of lifts
that lead to distant villages. In Europe, skiing can feel like
treks of discovery. Plan where you want to go in the morning,
then ski to distant villages, stopping along the way for a hot
chocolate or even a schnapps. If hidden powder is what you
seek, hire a mountain guide for the day—at more accessible
prices than you’d pay on this side of the Atlantic—and he’ll
lead you into secret stashes far from the groomers, perhaps
still untracked days after the last snowfall.
There are about 700 ski areas in Austria, but foreign visitors
do best concentrating on the larger, more famous resorts of
the provinces Vorarlberg, Tirol and Salzburg. Transportation
connections are easy and everything is close, no more than a
6 7
-| 1 Snow shoe hikes in untouched landscapes
-| 2 A view of the snow covered church steeples of Salzburg City
-| 3 Rustic mountain huts are the perfect place to take a break from skiing
-| 4 A fun winter adventure: toboganning
-| 5 Enjoy a sleigh ride in Ramsau am Dachstein, Styria
-| 6 Quaint Kitzbühel is a paradise for skiers
-| 7 Breathtaking views from the Top Mountain Star in the Oetztal
CREDITS
Winter
few hours between them by comfortable, efficient trains.
Everybody in the service industry invariably speaks English, and
it’s easy to get the right advice on traveling from here to there.
For lodging, pick a hotel at the center of the town you choose,
or at a gasthaus—an Austrian B&B. Free bus systems pick up
skiers and carry them to any of a variety of lifts from which
they can access different mountains. Soon you are talking
with others on the bus, exchanging information, feeling a part
of local knowledge. The towns are fun to walk through and
discover, the shopping is good, and the people are always
friendly. There are snowshoe trails, sleigh rides, cross-country
skiing and an array of snow toys—from snow scooters and
bikes to skateboards and pontoons—that are unknown in our
more litigious North America.
If the beauty of the Alps and the gemütlich pleasures of an
Alpine holiday are not tempting enough to seal the deal,
consider exploring Vienna, one of Europe’s great capitals,
where during the mid winter months you can get tickets to
one of the fairy-tale-like Viennese balls, where everyone
dances the waltz. Or spend a few days in the beautiful
Baroque city of Salzburg, Mozart’s birthplace. Each is a
museum in itself, with glorious churches, palaces, priceless
art galleries and traditional coffee houses.
Roger Toll, former editor of Snow Country magazine and a
travel writer and photographer, is a frequent visitor to Austria.
www.rogertoll.com
Our Top Winter Resorts
• The Arlberg
For excellent skiing visit upscale Lech and Zürs, or St.
Anton with its bustling nightlife and international flair.
www.arlberg.net
• Innsbruck
This historic town is the winter destination for overseas
travelers. You can’t beat the value and easy access to ski
slopes and sightseeing highlights. www.innsbruck.info
• Ötztal Valley
The village of Obergurgl at the very end of Ötztal is a
vacation paradise for families, while Sölden has two glacier
ski areas for year-round winter fun. www.oetztal.com
• Kitzbühel
A picture perfect town center and the world’s most
famous ski race define this center of Alpine skiing.
www.kitzbuehel.com
www.austria.info 27
Winter

Christmas Markets
During the four weeks leading up to Christmas Eve, Christmas Markets spring up in every town, big and small, all over the country. They are an important part of
the longstanding traditions observed during the Advent season and contribute to the almost tangible aura of expectation that lies over the land. Emanating a warm
and cozy atmosphere, these markets offer all kinds of handicrafts and Christmas decorations: handmade toys and local art, dolls and marionettes, spice bouquets,
candles, ceramics, crèches and crèche figurines. Mulled wine and delicious foods draw crowds, and many Christmas Markets become a gathering spot where
people meet to chat and enjoy the festive mood. Here is a short list of the most popular markets across Austria:

• VIENNA – “The Magic of Advent” • Salzburg – Hellbrunner Advent Magic • LINZ

The Christmas Market held in front of the City Hall can
be traced back to the year 1298. Today, 140 stalls
offer a variety of seasonal food and drink as well as
handicrafts and Christmas decorations. For children,
there is even a Christmas workshop, where they can
make trinkets and bake cookies.
www.christkindlmarkt.at
• VIENNA – Schönbrunn Christmas Market
Vienna’s most scenic and cozy Christmas Market is
held directly in front of Schönbrunn Palace. With daily
concerts, the scent of mulled wine and gingerbread in
the air, and the beautiful Christmas tree to admire, you
can’t help being in a festive mood.
www.weihnachtsmarkt.co.at
One of the most perfect locations for a traditional
Christmas Market is the charming Hellbrunn Castle
near Salzburg. Come to soak up the fairy-tale
atmosphere, shop for local handicrafts, and listen to
traditional music while sipping a cup of special
Christmas coffee.
www.hellbrunneradventzauber.at
• Innsbruck Christmas Markets
The medieval square in front of the Golden Roof is
transformed into a traditional Austrian Christmas
Market, where you can sample Tirolean fare and buy
Christmas presents. In fact, the entire town center is
so beautifully decorated, it seems like one big
Christmas Market. The snow-capped mountains in the
background provide the perfect seasonal atmosphere.
The Christmas Markets in Linz are held on the
Baroque main square and in the Volksgarten. The Linz
City Express takes you from one market to the next, so
you can enjoy typical arts and crafts, hot punch, and
performances by brass orchestras and choirs without
having to walk far. Linz also features a special
Christmas and crèche exhibition and workshops,
where you can create your own Christmas presents.
www.linz.at
• Rattenberger Advent
A medieval city with only 439 inhabitants and covering
an area of 11 hectares, Rattenberg is the perfect
backdrop for an authentic Advent experience. Be sure
to check your calendar, Austria’s smallest city holds
its lovely Christmas Market only on certain weekends PHOTOS: AUSTRIAN TOURIST OFFICE, INNSBRUCK TOURIST OFFICE, TOURISMUS SALZBURG GMBH, LINZ TOURISMUS

• Christmas in Salzburg www.christkindlmarkt.cc/ in December! www.rattenberg.at

The romantic Christmas Market on Cathedral Square
right in the heart of Salzburg dates back to the 15th
century. The tree vendors occupy the Residenzplatz
on the side of the huge Baroque building. Several folk
groups perform traditional Salzburg Christmas carols,
all designed to conjure the true Christmas spirit.
www.christkindlmarkt.co.at
• GRAZ Advent Markets
A romantic tour is the best way to experience the
magical atmosphere of the various Christmas Markets
in Graz. Nestled between medieval buildings or spread
out right in front of the festively adorned City Hall, the
various stalls beckon with glittering trinkets, local
handicrafts, and delicious foods.
www.graztourismus.at
• Mariazell – Advent Austria
For centuries, Mariazell has been a spiritual center and
favorite destination of pilgrims and vacationers from all
over the world. Against the picturesque backdrop of
the basilica, in the midst of the wintry mountains of
the Mariazell region, it is the magic and tranquility of
Advent that come to the fore. Every weekend in
December, authentic Christmas customs and regional
delicacies delight adults and children alike.
www.advent-austria.at

28 www.austria.info

PHOTOS: AUSTRIAN TOURIST OFFICE; NEW YEAR’S EVE @ WIENTOURISMUS / GERHARD WEINKIRN ; FLOATING STAGE / BREGENZ FESTIVAL; GROSSER SAAL WIENER KONZERTHAUS / HERBERT SCHWINGENSCHLOEGL; HAYDNSAAL ESTERHAZY PALACE / MANFRED HORVATH; HAYDN PHILHARMONIE / BERNHARD WOLFF
Yearly Event Highlights
If you want to know what not to miss while you are in Austria, we have compiled a list of the country’s most notable events throughout the year. People have been
known to travel across the Atlantic for these events alone. . . .
JANUARY______________________________
Mozart Week, Salzburg Every year around Mozart’s
birthday on January 27, Salzburg honors its most
beloved son with a series of performances featuring
world-renowned artists.
Hahnenkamm Race, Kitzbühel The Hahnenkamm
Downhill Race is the unofficial highlight of the
championship skiing season. Daredevil skiers excel on
the slopes, and Kitzbühel is party central for days.
Resonanzen in the Konzerthaus, Vienna Vienna’s
festival of ancient music in the Konzerthaus features
compositions ranging from the Middle Ages to the
Baroque period.
FEBRUARY_______________________________
Opera Ball, Vienna The Vienna State Opera is the
venerable venue for the top social event of Vienna’s
Ball season.
MARCH_________________________________
Easter Festivals in Vienna, Salzburg and Innsbruck
The very popular Easter Festivals give new impetus to
the cities' cultural scenes and focus on solemn and
joyful music fit for the occasion.
APRIL__________________________________
Spring Festival, Vienna Masterpieces of classical
music, performed by well-known interpreters at the
Vienna Musikverein, with focus on compositions by
Dvořák and Janáček.
MAY____________________________________
Life Ball, Vienna Life Ball is one of Europe’s most fun
and flamboyant AIDS charity events and has grown to
be a renowned society gathering.
Narzissen Fest, Bad Aussee In two traditional
parades, one on the road, the other by boat, the
participants—dressed in traditional costumes—display
beautiful creations made entirely of daffodils.
Vienna Festival The concerts and performances of the
Vienna Festival are the true highlights of Vienna’s concert
and performing art season.
Schubertiade, Schwarzenberg A series of high-level
orchestral and chamber music concerts, piano, and
lieder evenings amid the charming setting of
the Bregenzerwald.
JUNE___________________________________
Styriarte, Graz The involvement of star conductor
Nikolaus Harnoncourt guarantees exceptional
musical experiences.
Danube Island Festival, Vienna This has become the
largest youth festival in central Europe. People from all
over the world are expected at the largest summer
recreation paradise in Europe to enjoy a weekend of
entertainment and music.
Vienna Music Film Festival Famous concert, opera,
and ballet performances are shown on a huge screen
every evening under the summer sky against the
splendid backdrop of Vienna's City Hall. Food and drink
are served at food stands, the entertainment is free.
Opera in Summer Concert and opera highlights at the
Theater an der Wien, outside of the regular opera season.
JULY___________________________________
Ambras Castle Concerts and Festival
Weeks in Innsbruck One of the most important
festivals of music from the Middle Ages, the
Renaissance, Baroque and Classic periods performed
on original instruments.
Bregenz Festival Since 1946 music theater has been
performed in the unique atmosphere of the largest
lakeside stage in the world.
Innsbruck Summer Festival Workshop and
performances with international artists.
AUGUST_________________________________
Salzburg Festival The Salzburg Festival is one of the
most important music and theater festivals in the world,
featuring drama, concerts, and opera since 1920.
SEPTEMBER_____________________________
Haydn Festival, Eisenstadt The program includes
opera, concerts, masses, and lieder evenings performed
in the concert hall at Esterházy Castle.
Event Calendar
Bruckner Festival, Linz Numerous classical concerts
honor Linz’s famous son, composer Anton Bruckner. The
festival is ushered in every year with the spectacular
“Classical Sound Cloud” on the banks of the River Danube.
OCTOBER________________________________
Steirischer Herbst, Graz At the heart of this innovative
contemporary art festival is the interplay of music,
performance, creative arts, literature, and new media.
Three Country Marathon Each year runners pass
through Germany and Switzerland on their way around
Lake Constance to the finish line of this scenic marathon
in Bregenz, Vorarlberg.
NOVEMBER______________________________
Winter Opening Arlberg There is no better place to
start the winter season than the resorts of the Arlberg.
Salzburg Jazz Autumn, Salzburg The Salzburg Jazz
Autumn has been staged since November 1996 with
international stars and artists.
DECEMBER______________________________
Christmas Markets
Sparkling Christmas lights and decorations adorn the
streets of Austria’s cities and villages.
For a comprehensive calendar of events, with
detailed information on dates, times and venues of
cultural events, please call or e-mail the
Austrian Tourist Office
and ask for your copy of the “Culture Guide.”
US Tel: 212 944 6880
CAN Tel: 416 967 3381
travel@austria.info
www.austria.info
www.austria.info 29
Travel Tips

PHOTOS: WIENTOURISMUS/ GERHARD WEINKIRN; AUSTRIAN TOURIST OFFICE; HOTEL ALTSTADT VIENNA; WINE CELLARS / ÖWM / ANNA STÖCHER;
2 3 4 5

Travel Tips
Our Insider’s Guide to Traveling in Austria.

Plan before you go
Travel planning is a fun and entertaining task, a period of anticipation and excitement.
Good travel planning makes a great trip even better. We highly recommend the use of
a professional who can help you in this endeavor. In this guide you will find information
about leading travel companies with a vast expertise in planning and operating trips
to Austria.
If you need a good travel agent, let us assist you. The Austrian Tourist Office
continuously trains and educates professional travel agents in the US and Canada.
Quite a few of them have completed our “Austria Expert” program. Look for an Austria
Certified Travel Specialist near you at www.austria.info or call us at 212 944 6880 in
the US or 416 967 3381 in Canada.

30 www.austria.info

READ ALL ABOUT IT
For your convenience we have put together a selection of Austria travel guides, CDs,
cook books, fiction and much more which is available at www.amazon.com. Just
go to www.austria.info/us to access the list of Austria related literature.
GETTING THERE
Austria is located in the very center of Europe, therefore easily accessible from all
directions. Austria has six international airports: Vienna, Salzburg, Innsbruck, Linz, Graz
and Klagenfurt. Vienna is served by about 30 international airlines. Our national carrier
Austrian Airlines (a member of the Star Alliance) offers non-stop connections from the
United States and Canada to Vienna. Visit www.austrianair.com for more information.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
Citizens of the United States and Canada simply need a valid passport to visit Austria
for up to 90 days. For citizens of other countries, we advise to check with the nearest
Austrian Consulate in the US or with the Austrian Embassy in Canada.
Consular Section of the Embassy, Washington, D.C.: 202 895 6700
Austrian Consulate General, New York: 212 737 6400
Austrian Consulate General, Los Angeles: 310 444 9310
Austrian Consulate General, Chicago: 312 222 1515
Austrian Embassy, Ottawa, Canada: 613 789 1444
VAT TAX REFUND
Citizens of countries not belonging to the European Union may obtain a refund on the
VAT they pay on single purchases totaling more than EUR 75—if these goods are
taken out of the country and the necessary customs formalities are completed. The
required forms are available at stores that are marked with a TAX FREE sticker.
For detailed information visit www.globalrefund.com.
PHONE CALLS TO AND WITHIN AUSTRIA:
If you are planning on calling the US or Canada please check with your long distance
carrier whether they have a special service (access codes) for phone calls from Europe.
If you are using MCI or AT&T phone cards, you will only have to pay for local phone
charges in Austria, the rest will be billed to your phone bill at home.
• The country code for Austria is +43; the area code for Vienna is 1, for Salzburg it
is 662 and for Innsbruck 512.
• When calling a local number in Austria, dial a 0 and then the area code (skip the area
code if you are calling from the same town)
• To call the US from Austria, dial 001 and then the area code and number
DRIVING IN AUSTRIA
International and local car rental companies have offices at airports, key rail stations
and in major cities. Traffic regulations are similar to those in the United States and
Canada, with some important considerations: no right turn on red, no passing on the
right on highways and expressways and a lights-on-at-all-times rule. Also, all vehicles
on Austrian roads have to carry a “security vest”, a light, neon-colored vest that has
to be worn for better visibility in case the driver has to leave the vehicle while on the
highway. Security vests can be obtained at any gas station. Driving in Austria requires
an International Drivers License, which can be obtained at your local AAA and CAA.
-| 1 Vienna offers a colorful mix of cultural events
-| 2 Austria offers 6,200 miles of clearly signposted trails for cyclists and
mountain bikers
-| 3 Shopping in Austria is a pleasure, especially knowing that you can get a
VAT refund for many purchases above 75 €.
-| 4 Hotel prices always include taxes and service charges
-| 5 Make the most of your city stay by booking day trips to nearby regions
such as Lower Austria’s wine country.
Travel Tips
IMPORTANT FREEWAY TOLL REGULATION
Driving on Austria’s expressways (Autobahn) requires the use of a paid toll sticker
which needs to be attached to the windshield. If you rent your car in Austria, it will likely
already have such a sticker attached, not, however, if you rent in another country. The
required toll is rather inexpensive (a ten-day visitor sticker will cost €7.70), the
penalties for being caught without one, however, tend to be rather stiff. Toll stickers
are available at gas stations (in Austria and abroad in close border proximity), autoclub
offices, post offices, tobacco shops.
TRAIN TRAVEL
Rail service in Austria is comfortable and reliable, connecting all major cities and many
resort towns and regions with over 3,600 miles of rail system. A train ride From Vienna
to Salzburg takes approximately 3 hours; from Vienna to Innsbruck, it’s a five hour
ride. Austrian Rail is part of the Eurail system, with easy connections from neighboring
countries. For information on Rail Passes for Austria and neighboring countries, as
well as ticket reservations, please visit www.austria.info.
CLIMATE
Austria enjoys pleasant, moderate weather with distinct seasonal changes. Summers
can be hot with temperatures occasionally reaching above 86° Fahrenheit (30°
Celsius), summer evenings are usually cool. Don’t be afraid of the occasional rain
shower, with rain falls heaviest in April and November. The driest periods tend to be
from September through early October. Winter temperatures typically fall just around
freezing with the occasional cold spell.
MONEY MATTERS
Austria is part of the EURO (€) Zone limiting the need for currency exchange when
traveling to many neighboring countries. Credit cards are widely accepted, though
some restaurants, shops and private pensions still insist on cash payments. We
recommend exchanging US or Canadian Dollars at banks, as exchange rates at hotels
and currency exchange offices tend to be less advantageous. You can also access
your personal bank accounts at many ATM teller machines, if your bank is part of the
Plus, Cirrus, Maestro or Star systems. A word of caution, remember your PIN code in
a numeric format as the keypad does not show letters.
TIPPING
All service industries in Austria already include a basic service charge with their bill.
However, for good service it is customary to tip about 10% of the bill amount for waiters,
taxi drivers, hairdressers. Porters will appreciate about 1€ per piece of luggage.
For additional information on Austria—including travel information—
please call or e-mail the Austrian Tourist Office:
US Tel: 212 944 6880 travel@austria.info
CAN Tel: 416 967 3381 www.austria.info
Become a fan of "Austria. Official Travel Info" and
> Post comments
> Share videos and photos
> Be a part of our community on Facebook
We would like to hear what you think.
www.austria.info 31
:PVS
"VTUSJBO

WBDBUJPO
CFHJOT

XIFO
ZPV
TUFQ

POCPBSE
From our New York, Washington D.C. and Toronto gateways, Austrian Airlines flies nonstop to Vienna,
our hub. We offer excellent connections within Austria and to many other European destinations.
Onboard, we treat our guests to elegant dining and numerous entertainment choices. But the real
difference is our European flair. It is reflected in everything we do, from our attention to detail to the
pleasure we get from a job well done.

For information & reservations call 800.843.0002 or visit www.austrian.com.

Earn miles with Miles&More, Mileage Plus and Aeroplan.

www.austrian.com