Save 112 (European emergency number) and review local medical/hospital options. Austria is generally very safe, but have travel insurance and keep copies of your passport and important documents.
Plan around Sundays
Outside major cities many shops and services close or reduce hours on Sundays. If you’ll be outside Vienna, stock up or plan activities that don’t require shopping on Sundays.
Carry some cash
Many markets (especially Christmas markets) and some small cafés or vendor stalls prefer cash. Cards are widely accepted in cities, but bring euros for rural areas and markets.
Use and buy local transit passes
Public transit is reliable. Buy a Wiener Linien (Vienna) day/week ticket for metro, trams and buses; note the airport train often costs extra. S7 local trains are cheaper than the City Airport Train (CAT).
Book cultural tickets early and dress smartly
Popular concerts, opera and museum slots can sell out—buy ahead. Expect coat checks at some venues; bring comfortable shoes and consider a mask for crowded performances.
Don’t miss Austrian food and cafés
Try a Kaffeehaus (coffeehouse), Sacher torte, local breads and regional specialties. Visit bakeries and local restaurants rather than only tourist spots for better food experiences.
Choose your towns with purpose — mountains vs. cities
Austria has diverse regions: Vienna for museums and culture; Salzburg, Hallstatt, Innsbruck and the lake/Alps areas for mountains and scenery. Hallstatt can be very crowded — consider staying overnight nearby or choose St. Wolfgang or other less-touristed bases.
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