Austrian Culture and Etiquette: A Visitor's Guide to Customs in Austria

First impressions matter

Austrians value courtesy, punctuality and a certain formality that can feel reserved at first. Politeness is never wasted here, and a little effort with local custom goes a long way.

Greetings and titles

• The standard greeting is Grüß Gott (literally "greet God"), used across most of the country, especially in the west and rural areas.
• In Vienna you will also hear Servus among friends and Hallo in casual settings.
• Shake hands firmly, make eye contact and greet the most senior person first.
• Titles matter. Address people as Herr or Frau plus their surname, and use professional titles like Doktor or Magister when you know them.
• Use the formal Sie until you are invited to switch to the informal du.

Punctuality and social rules

• Be on time. Arriving even ten minutes late to a dinner or appointment is considered rude.
• Austrians can seem direct and reserved; this is not coldness but a respect for personal space.
• Keep your voice down on public transport and in restaurants.
• Jaywalking is frowned upon. Wait for the green pedestrian light even on an empty street.

Dining and coffee house culture

• The Viennese coffee house is an institution. Order a Melange or a Großer Brauner, take your time, and never feel rushed.
• Wait for the host to say Mahlzeit or Guten Appetit before eating.
• Keep both hands visible on the table, wrists resting on the edge.
• When toasting with wine or beer, say Prost, make eye contact and clink glasses.

Tipping norms

• Tipping is customary but modest. Round up or add about 5 to 10 percent in restaurants.
• Tell the waiter the total amount you want to pay rather than leaving coins on the table. For a 18.50 euro bill, hand over 20 euros and say "twenty."
• Round up for taxis and leave a euro or two for hotel staff.

Things to avoid

• Do not bring up the Nazi era casually or make light of it; it is a serious subject.
• Never call an Austrian German. Austria has its own proud identity.
• Avoid loud, boisterous behaviour and excessive familiarity with strangers.

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