|
| Essential Info for Austria |
|
|
| | |
|
|
Safety: although Austria has a low crime rate, like anywhere, crimes against tourists involving theft of valuables through pick pocketing and bag snatching is on the increase. Vigilance and common sense is a necessity for not becoming a victim of crime, especially in tourist hotspots, which mainly include St Stephan's Cathedral in Vienna, the nearby shopping areas, and the two largest train stations. When to go: the high season runs from April to October in Vienna and much of Austria, with July and August being the busiest times. In addition, December to March is also very busy in the ski resorts and hotel bookings at these times should be made way in advance. Money: as a member of the EU, Austria has opted for the Euro and the best exchange rates can be found in the banks. Prices are inline with Western Europe and the US, although major tourist destinations, like Vienna, Tyrol, and Salzburg are a lot more expensive for hotels and restaurants. Credit cards are not as widely accepted in Austria as with other European countries, although ATMs (Bankomat) are widespread, even in rural villages, and many shops and restaurants will accept direct payment with an ATM card. Most foreign cash cards are accepted at ATMs. Visitors will also encounter other languages in Austria in certain regions, such as Hungarian in Burgenland (south Austria), and some Slavic languages in eastern Austria. Emergency: Austria is efficient in most areas and its emergency services are very fast reliable.
Ambulance: 144
Police: 133
Recommended hospital:
Vienna General Hospital – Wahringer Gurtel 18-20 (emergency number: +43 40 400 0) Typical business hours:
- Government departments: 09:00 to 18:00 (may vary slightly).
- Retail: 08:00 to 18:00 (later in malls), every day – shops open to noon on Saturdays and close on Sundays.
- Banking: 08:00 to 12:30 and 13:30 to 15:00, Monday to Friday (Thursday open until 17:30).
| |
| |
|
|
|
|
|
|
