Vienna, Austria

What to wear in Vienna, Austria

The cosmopolitan capital of Central Europe has a very well dressed population that wear suits and gowns for nights at the theater or opera. Casual wear will work in the daytime, but for Vienna this means trendy and fashionable. A warm, rainproof overcoat is essential for autumn through early spring, and heavy boots are a must in the winter. Comfortable walking shoes that can stand up to the cobblestone streets are necessary to see the Old City on foot.

Spoken language in Vienna, Austria

Though German is the official language of Austria, and spoken throughout Vienna, most people speak, or at least understand English, as it is taught in every high school.

Electricity in Vienna, Austria

Austria is slowly converting to the standard European Union, EU-230 voltage, but most of Vienna operates on 220 volts/50 cycles AC. Most appliances from the United States will need a converter (also called a transformer), though some hotels will have adapter plugs for the two-prong outlets.

Customs information for Vienna, Austria visitors

We strongly suggest that you verify with a consulate for the most current and complete rendering of the information outlined below.

Entry

A valid passport is required to enter Austria, but not a visa.

Austria Customs

Visitors from age 17 can bring to Austria 200 cigarettes, 50 cigars, or 250 grams of tobacco. Alcoholic beverages are limited to one liter of spirits over 44 proof, or two liters of spirits of 22 proof or less, including sparkling wines, liquor wines, or a proportionate combination. Besides medication for personal use during the trip, visitors can bring up to 50 grams of perfume and 0.25 liters eau de toilette. Other commodities are duty free up to a value of $150.

US Customs

Returning US citizens who have been away for 48 hours or more are allowed to bring back, once every 30 days, $800 worth of merchandise duty-free. You'll be charged a flat rate of 10% duty on the next $1,000 worth of purchases. Be sure to have your receipts handy. On gifts, the duty-free limit is $100. You cannot bring fresh foodstuffs into the United States; tinned foods, however, are allowed.

US Embassy

Gartenbaupromenade 2, A-1010 Vienna, Austria, phone 43-1-31339, fax 406 52 60, e-mail usis@usia.co.at.

Advising for Vienna, Austria visitors

We strongly advise that you confirm the following information and regard this only as a basic guide.

Drinking

The legal age for buying and ordering alcohol is eighteen, but wine with meals is a normal part of everyday life. Alcohol is sold throughout the year all, and there are few restrictions. When drinking wine, be aware of the surprisingly strong alcohol content.

Rest Rooms

Public rest rooms in Eastern Europe are clean and safe because they often have attendants who expect to be tipped at least 5 AS (forty cents) for each use.

Safety

As with most tourist centers in Europe, pickpockets have flocked to Vienna in recent years, especially in the area around St. Stephan's Cathedral. Small children are used as diversions while adults grab wallets and flee. Unaccompanied women are the most at risk, and pocketbooks should not be opened in public.