Austria Currency Guide
Austria, a gem nestled in the heart of Europe, beckons you to experience its breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and storied history. As you traverse the majestic Alpine peaks, immerse yourself in the vibrant arts scene of Vienna and explore charming medieval towns, you'll quickly realize that Austria is more than just a destination; it's a symphony of unforgettable moments. Whether you're an adventure seeker, a history enthusiast, or simply longing for a taste of world-renowned cuisine, Austria offers an unparalleled experience that will leave you yearning for more.
Taking Travel Money to Austria
If you're travelling to Austria, you'll need to exchange your Australian dollar (AUD) for Euro (Euro). Get information on how to exchange your AUD to EUR in our guide below.
Is it better to convert currency in Australia or Austria?
It’s best to convert your currency in Australia before travelling to Austria, as the Australian Dollar (AUD) is considered an exotic currency in Europe. This often means higher fees and less favourable rates when exchanging AUD overseas. By securing Euros at home, you’ll benefit from a better rate and avoid the hassle of finding an exchange willing to take AUD. With your travel funds ready, you’ll have more confidence in your budget and more to spend on enjoying your trip.
How much cash can I take to Austria?
In Austria, there's no set limit on how much you can take with you. However, it's important to keep in mind that if you're carrying €10,000 or more in cash or its equivalent in another currency, you'll need to declare it at Customs when entering or leaving the European Union. It may seem like a hassle, but it's a legal obligation, so make sure to follow the rules. Otherwise, enjoy your trip to Austria and all the fun adventures that await you.
Where to convert currency?
Crown Currency Exchange is Australia’s largest and leading foreign exchange provider. With over 20 years of experience in ensuring our customers have the exact currencies needed to get the most from their travel adventures, we offer great rates on foreign currency and exceptional customer service. You can collect your foreign currencies from over 60 stores across Australia and get your travel money on the spot, locking in a fantastic exchange rate. Our stores are located nationwide in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Canberra, Adelaide, Tasmania & Perth.
What should you budget per day?
Budget
Travelling to Austria on a budget doesn't have to mean sacrificing all of the fun activities or experiences. You can easily enjoy your trip while sticking to a daily budget of €80. Opt for a hostel dorm instead of a hotel, and cook your own meals instead of eating out at restaurants. With this budget, you can visit a few museums, take a free walking tour, and get around using public transportation. If you're planning on indulging in some drinks during your trip, make sure to add an extra €10 to your daily budget to cover the cost.
Moderate
If you're looking to stretch your funds while still experiencing all the wonderful things the country has to offer, a moderate budget of around €160 per day should do the trick. With this budget, you can opt for an Airbnb or private hostel room while still having the flexibility to eat out for some of your meals and enjoy a few drinks at the bar. Plus, you'll be able to afford more museum and palace visits, take a day trip to nearby Bratislava, and even snag the occasional taxi ride to make getting around a bit easier.
Luxury
For a truly indulgent experience, you'll need around €320+ per day. With this amount, you can indulge in all the finer things that Austria has to offer. Stay in a luxurious hotel, dine out for all meals, savour drinks at the bar to your heart's desire, and even have a private guided tour of some of Austria's most iconic spots. You can also rent a car or take taxis for comfortable transportation and visit more palaces or attend the opera. However, the beauty of this luxury budget is that the sky is the limit, so you can add on more magic and extravagance to make your Austrian getaway even more memorable.
What is ATM access like in Austria?
If you're looking for easy access to cash in Austria, you'll be glad to know that ATMs are almost everywhere you turn, especially in bigger cities like Vienna and Salzburg. Whether withdrawing from a foreign bank account or using a debit card, having your pin number is all you need to get started. And if you're worried about being able to use your international cards at local retailers, rest assured that it's not a problem.
Is tipping customary in Austria? How much is expected?
Tipping in Austria is a customary practice that shows appreciation for exceptional service. While not strictly mandatory, it's always a thoughtful gesture to tip those who have provided you with great service throughout your stay. Here's a quick guide to tipping in various settings across Austria, complete with scenarios to help you make the best decision.
Restaurants: When dining in Austrian restaurants, consider tipping around 10-15% of your bill. The exact tip amount may vary depending on the venue, occasion, and size of your order. Remember, those servers often share their tips with kitchen staff, so it's courteous to tip them slightly more than bartenders. For instance, if you're celebrating a special event and the waiter goes above and beyond to ensure an unforgettable evening, it's appropriate to tip generously.
Bars and Cafes: In Austrian bars and cafes, feel free to round up the bill to the next significant amount or leave a small tip each time you order a drink. If you find yourself in an upscale cocktail bar where mixology is an art form, or if a talented barista crafts your cappuccino to perfection, consider leaving a larger tip to show your appreciation.
Housekeeping: Hotel housekeepers and maids work tirelessly to keep your room clean and comfortable. A daily tip of around €5-10 is a common way to express gratitude for excellent service. For example, if the housekeeping staff goes the extra mile to accommodate special requests or ensure your room is immaculate, a tip would be a kind gesture.
Taxis: For taxi rides, simply round up to the nearest euro or tip up to 10% of the final fare for exceptional service. If the driver helps you with your luggage or provides valuable local insights during your journey, don't hesitate to tip a bit more.
Salon: If you're thrilled with your new hairstyle, show your appreciation by tipping your stylist 10% of the final bill. A great tip is warranted when your hairdresser goes out of their way to accommodate your preferences or offers expert advice to help you achieve the perfect look.
Spas: At spas, a service charge may already be included in the price. However, if the staff goes above and beyond your expectations, feel free to leave an additional tip of up to 5%. For instance, if your massage therapist tailors the treatment to your specific needs or provides helpful aftercare advice, a tip would be a thoughtful way to show your gratitude.
Must-Do's in Austria
1
Visit Schonbrunn Palace
Schonbrunn Palace is a great place to start your Austrian adventure. This UNESCO World Heritage Site was once the summer residence of Austria's royal family, but now attracts millions of visitors every year. The stunning palace's lavish rooms, landscaped gardens, and zoo are worth exploring for a day. We recommend taking one of the palace's guided tours to learn about the history and culture of Austria.
2
Attend a Classical Concert
Austria has been home to some of the world's greatest classical composers, such as Mozart, Beethoven and Strauss. What better way to honour the country's musical heritage than to attend a classical concert? You can attend performances at the Vienna State Opera or the Musikverein Concert Hall. Most concerts offer a pre-concert talk and a glass of wine, so you can get into the spirit of the music too.
3
Try Traditional Austrian Cuisine
Austria is home to some of the most famous dishes in the world, including Wiener Schnitzel and Apfelstrudel. Food is an essential part of the country's culture. We recommend trying traditional dishes at local taverns like Plachutta Wollzeile or Griechenbeisl in Vienna. Don't leave Austria without trying a glass of its famous wine; Grüner Veltliner is a favourite amongst locals and tourists alike.
4
Take a Scenic Train Ride
Austria's stunning natural beauty can be fully appreciated through its extensive train network. One of the most scenic routes is the Salzburg-Tyrol Railway, which passes through snow-capped peaks, turquoise lakes and charming villages. The Semmering Railway is another option that takes you through the picturesque region of Semmering.
5
Go Skiing
Austria is a winter wonderland, and skiing is one of the best ways to explore its snowy landscapes. There are many ski resorts throughout the country that cater to all levels of skiers, from beginner to expert. The Arlberg region is Austria's largest ski area and is home to resorts like St. Anton and Lech-Zürs. Other popular ski destinations include Kitzbühel and Innsbruck.