How to get there
You can get to Austria through several modes of transportation. Here are the main options:
By Airplane
Austria has several international airports, with Vienna International Airport being the largest. Other notable airports include those in Salzburg, Innsbruck, and Graz. Direct flights are available from many major cities worldwide.
By Train
Austria has a well-developed rail network operated by ÖBB (Austrian Federal Railways) and Westbahn, providing efficient connections from neighboring countries. The ÖBB Nightjet offers overnight train services to various destinations, making it a comfortable option for longer journeys.
By Car
Austria is accessible by car, with a comprehensive road network. Please note that tolls are required on motorways, and a vignette (toll sticker) must be purchased for highway use.
By Bus
Various bus companies operate routes into Austria from surrounding countries, often at lower prices than trains. This can be a budget-friendly option if you are on a budget.
How to get around
Trains
The most common way to get around the country are the train. The main train operator is the ÖBB (Austrian Federal Railways), offering extensive national and international connections. Another option is the Westbahn, a private company that operates on key routes, particularly between Vienna and Salzburg. It often provides competitive pricing compared to ÖBB.
Buses
There are bus services that connect smaller towns and rural areas that may not be accessible by trains, such as Postbus. In addition there ar also International Bus Services like FlixBus that offer connections to major European cities.
Urban Transport
In Vienna there is a comprehensive public transport system managed by Wiener Linien, including buses, trams, and a metro (U-Bahn). Tickets can be purchased at machines or online, with prices starting at €2.40 for a single journey. Cities like Graz and Salzburg have their own tram networks and bus services that operate frequently throughout the day.
Bicycles
Cycling is also popular in Austria, especially in cities like Vienna, where public bike-sharing systems are available.
Taxis
Taxis are also available in cities, though they can be more expensive than public transport.
Car Rentals
Renting a car is an option if you want to explore the countryside or less accessible regions. However, parking can be costly in urban areas, and driving in cities may be challenging due to traffic and narrow streets.
Sim card
There are several SIM card options available if you are visiting Austria, including both physical SIM cards and eSIMs.
Physical SIM Cards
1. A1 Telekom
A1 offers various prepaid plans, such as:
- A1 SIMply S: €19.90 for 120 GB of mobile data, unlimited calls and texts within Austria and the EU.
- A1 SIMply L: €24.90 for 24 GB of mobile data with unlimited calls and texts.
A1 has extensive coverage across Austria, including rural areas.
2. Magenta Telekom (formerly T-Mobile)
Magenta Telekom is ecommended for tourists:
- Klax M: €14.90 for 2000 minutes/SMS and 40 GB data valid for 28 days.
- Klax Unlimited: €29.90 for unlimited calls/SMS and unlimited data.
Magenta Telekom is known for its reliable 4G/5G network, especially in urban areas.
3. Drei (3)
It offers competitive prepaid options:
- 20 GB Data Pack: €20 for 30 days, including 2000 minutes and SMS.
- 30 GB Data Pack: €30 for 30 days with similar benefits.
They have good coverage in cities and fast data speeds.
eSIM Options
Airalo
It offers an eSIM specifically for Austria starting at $12 for 20 GB of data. The activation is easy via QR code; no need to visit a store.
