Plugs and voltage
Austria runs on 230V at 50Hz with Type C and Type F sockets (the round two-pin European plug). UK, US and Australian devices need an adapter; US gadgets also need a voltage converter unless they are dual-voltage (most phones and laptops are). A single multi-country travel adapter covers your whole trip.
Language basics
German is the official language, but English is widely spoken in Vienna, Salzburg and tourist areas. A few words go a long way:
- Grüß Gott or Hallo for hello
- Danke for thank you
- Bitte for please or you're welcome
- Zahlen, bitte to ask for the bill
Austrians appreciate the effort, and a polite greeting opens doors.
What to pack
Weather changes fast, especially near the mountains. Bring layers even in summer, a light rain jacket, and comfortable shoes for cobblestone old towns. For winter sports near Innsbruck or Kitzbühel, pack proper thermal gear. Carry some cash too: while cards are common, many small cafes, bakeries and rural spots still prefer euros.
Connectivity
Free Wi-Fi is easy to find in hotels, cafes and on many ÖBB trains, but it is patchy in alpine areas. An eSIM gives you reliable mobile data the moment you land at Vienna or Salzburg airport, so you can use maps, translation and ticket apps without hunting for hotspots.
Quick tips
- Use the ÖBB and public transport Vienna's U-Bahn, trams and buses are excellent. Buy a 24/48/72-hour Vienna pass or use the ÖBB app for intercity trains.
- Validate your ticket On some trams and regional services you must stamp or activate tickets before boarding.
- Tap water is excellent Vienna's comes straight from alpine springs, so refill your bottle for free.
- Tipping is modest Round up or add about 5 to 10 percent; tell the server the total when you pay.
- Shops close Sundays Plan groceries ahead; supermarkets and most stores shut, though train-station shops stay open.
- Carry ID Police can ask for it, and it speeds up tax-free shopping refunds.
- Mind quiet hours Austrians value quiet, especially Sunday and after 10pm in apartments.
- Book Alps trains early Scenic routes and ski-season tickets sell out fast.
Stay connected in Austria
A HelloSIM eSIM keeps you online the second you arrive, so maps, translation and bookings just work with no roaming bills. Activate it before you fly and skip the airport SIM queues.
Get your Austria eSIM in 30 seconds
Instant delivery, 4G/5G speeds, no roaming bills.
View Austria plans →