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Vienna International Guide - Austrian Lifestyle, Travel, Arts, Culture
Get updated news about developments in Vienna's inter-cultural environment: lifestyle, travel destinations, art exhibitions, restaurant- & event-suggestions
Controversy Over FPÖ Candidacy for Yad Vashem Board Shakes Jewish Communities
The nomination of Wels Mayor Andreas Rabl of the Freedom Party of Austria (FPÖ) for a position on the board of the "Austrian Friends of Yad Vashem" has triggered a broad wave of outrage and criticism that reaches far beyond Austria's borders. Rabl's candidacy, known for his affiliation with a party that is often criticized for its extreme right-wing tendencies, was met with staunch opposition from renowned institutions and personalities.
February 22, 2024
Austria and USA Launch New Exchange Program for Young Professionals and Students
In a new step to deepen transatlantic relations, Austria and the United States have launched a new Working Holiday Program (WHP) that offers young people from both nations the opportunity to experience each other's culture, everyday life, and the working world.
February 21, 2024
Vienna Selected as European Capital of Democracy 2024/25
Vienna, the Austrian capital, will hold the prestigious title of "European Capital of Democracy" for one year from October 2024. This award follows a decision by a Europe-wide online vote, in which Vienna prevailed against cities such as Bratislava, Leipzig, Gdansk, and Izmir. The awarding of the title, which was previously held by Barcelona, was initiated by the non-profit organization European Capital of Democracy.
February 20, 2024
"Shaping Europe together": EBÖ Launches Second Workshop in the Run-Up to the 2024 EU Elections
The European Movement Austria (EBÖ) is intensifying its efforts to actively involve companies and associations in shaping the future of Europe. Under the motto "Shaping Europe together", the second workshop in this series will take place on March 18, 2024, at the House of the European Union in Vienna. The aim is to give participants a comprehensive insight into EU policy and enable them to play a greater role.
February 20, 2024
Michelin Guide Puts Austria's Cuisine Back on the Map
The MICHELIN Guide, one of the world's most renowned institutions for restaurant ratings, has announced that it will once again publish an Austria-wide selection of top restaurants from 2025.
February 15, 2024
Vienna Airport Focuses on Expansion: 420-Million-Euro Terminal Expansion Project Launched
The foundation stone for a comprehensive terminal expansion has been laid at Vienna Airport Schwechat. With a budget of 420 million euros, the airport will not only become larger but also more modern and customer-friendly by 2027.
February 14, 2024
Austrian President Van der Bellen Visits Pioneering Integration Project "NACHBARINNEN in Vienna"
Federal President Alexander Van der Bellen emphasized the importance of integration and empowerment during his visit to the sewing workshop of the "NACHBARINNEN in Wien" association. The association, known for its successful work with migrant women, relies on the principle of self-empowerment and role models from their own culture to bring women and families with a migration background out of isolation.
February 7, 2024
Order of Malta Strengthens Diplomacy for Humanitarian Aid
A major international conference in Rome, attended by the Sovereign Order of Malta's Ambassador to the Republic of Austria, H.E. DI Sebastian Prince von Schoenaich-Carolath, has strengthened the role of the Order of Malta's diplomatic service in the international community. The event included an audience with Pope Francis and provided a platform for exchange on ways to intensify international cooperation.
February 6, 2024
Africa Day 2024: Austria Looks to Africa's Future Markets
This year's Africa Day was all about Africa's future markets and offered a platform to strengthen economic relations between Austrian and African companies. Organized by the Austrian Federal Economic Chamber (WKÖ), the event attracted more than 1,200 participants from Austria, over 30 African countries, and guests from Europe, Asia, and the USA.
February 5, 2024
Austrian Foreign Minister Schallenberg Thanks Descendants of Nazi Expellees for Regaining Austrian Citizenship
Together with the President of the Jewish Community Vienna, Oskar Deutsch, the Austrian Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg presented the new publication "Wir und Österreich - Austria and us". This moving publication tells the stories of 15 descendants of victims of National Socialism who share their memories, feelings, hopes, and expectations in connection with regaining Austrian citizenship.
February 4, 2024
Austria United in Remembrance: Joint Remembrance on International Holocaust Remembrance Day
In an impressive sign of solidarity and remembrance, representatives of the Jewish Community, Roma, Austria's political leaders, and members of the democratic opposition came together in Vienna to commemorate the millions of victims of the Shoah.
January 30, 2024
Saudi Arabia Allows Alcohol Sales to Foreign Diplomats for the First Time
In a significant change to its long-standing policy, Saudi Arabia has decided to allow the public sale of alcohol to "non-Muslim diplomats". This marks a historic departure from the country's strict alcohol ban.
January 25, 2024
International Flair at the 75th Officers' Ball in Vienna
The Officers' Ball in Vienna attracted not only local guests but also an impressive number of international guests, underlining the importance of the event in the diplomatic calendar.
January 24, 2024
Promotion of Democracy in the Age of AI by the U.S. Embassy in Vienna
The U.S. Embassy in Austria, in cooperation with the Austrian Federal Ministry for European and International Affairs (BMEIA), recently hosted renowned AI ethics and policy expert Merve Hickok for an important dialog on global challenges. This initiative is part of the "U.S.-Austria Citizen Dialogue on Global Challenges".
January 22, 2024
"Africa! Africa!" Enchants Vienna with a Spectacular Show
"Africa! Africa!" has now also captivated audiences in Vienna after its impressive success in several Austrian cities. The premiere, which took place on January 19, 2024, in the St. Marx circus tent, was a feast for the senses and cultures that delighted the guests of honor and spectators alike.
January 22, 2024
Intercultural Achievement Award 2024 of the Austrian Foreign Ministry
The Federal Ministry for European and International Affairs invites organizations from Austria and abroad to apply for the Intercultural Achievement Award 2024. This prestigious award, now in its eleventh year, recognizes outstanding intercultural and interreligious projects that contribute to global dialogue and mutual understanding. The deadline for project proposals is March 17, 2024.
January 18, 2024
Jonas Kaufmann and Elisabeth Engelbrechtsmüller-Strauss Awarded the French Legion of Honor
The awards of the French Legion of Honor to Jonas Kaufmann and Elisabeth Engelbrechtsmüller-Strauss underline the importance of their artistic and business activities. Kaufmann's contribution to the world of opera and music and Engelbrechtsmüller-Strauss' successful management of an international technology group as well as her social commitment reflect France's appreciation of outstanding achievements in culture and business.
January 18, 2024
DHK New Year's Reception 2024: Business and Politics in Dialog
The traditional New Year's reception of the German Chamber of Commerce in Austria (DHK) took place in Graz, set against the historic backdrop of the auditorium of the Old University.
January 17, 2024
25th Savaball: A Celebration of Serbian Culture at the Vienna Hofburg
The 25th anniversary of the Savaball at the Vienna Hofburg will be a great celebration of Serbian culture and tradition. With high-caliber guests from politics and show business, international artists, and a social commitment, the ball promises to be a great celebration of Serbian culture and tradition.
January 17, 2024
Austria's Graz Supports Lviv in Building an Artistic Library
In a remarkable gesture of cultural cooperation, the Austrian city of Graz has agreed to support the Ukrainian city of Lviv in the construction of a new Artistic Library. This decision strengthens the already existing historical ties between the two cities and marks an important step in their cultural cooperation.
January 16, 2024
60 Years of the Documentation Archive of Austrian Resistance
The Documentation Centre of Austrian Resistance (DÖW), an important institution in the reappraisal of Austria's Nazi past, is celebrating its 60th anniversary. Founded in 1963 by former resistance fighters and victims of Nazi persecution as well as committed academics, the DÖW has played a central role in researching and communicating the history of resistance against the Nazi regime.
January 15, 2024
Austrians Show Trust in the Euro, Skepticism Towards its Digital Counterpart
According to a recent survey by the Austrian Society for European Politics (ÖGfE), 54% of Austrians trust the euro as a currency, while the digital euro is still awaiting broad acceptance. Paul Schmidt, Secretary General of the ÖGfE, analyzed these results in the context of the 25-year history of the euro and current European monetary policy.
January 10, 2024
Westbahn Maintains Service Between Vienna and Munich During GDL Strike
Despite the announced three-day strike by the German Train Drivers' Union (GDL), which will take place from Wednesday, January 10 to Friday, January 12, 2024, WESTbahn confirms that its train services to and from Rosenheim and Munich will continue to run as planned.
January 9, 2024
Viennese Air Quality 2023: Compliance with all Pollutant Limits
Air quality in Vienna in 2023 shows a significant improvement and continues the trend of recent years. Despite increased particulate matter levels due to New Year's Eve fireworks, the legal limits for pollutants were met at all measuring points.
January 4, 2024
French-Austrian Cultural Exchange: Costa-Gavras Honors Vienna with an Inspiring Visit
Vienna was enriched by a visit from the renowned Franco-Greek director Costa-Gavras. Accompanied by his wife Michèle, the award-winning cineaste enjoyed a day full of cultural highlights in the Austrian capital. The visit concluded with a meeting between Costa-Gavras and leading representatives of the Austrian film at the French Embassy.
December 27, 2023
Eurobarometer Survey: Growing EU Support in Austria
A recent Eurobarometer survey reveals a remarkable trend: support and a positive image of the European Union (EU) have increased in Austria and across Europe. According to Martin Selmayr, Head of the European Commission Representation in Austria, the mood towards the EU in Austria is "better than often assumed."
December 26, 2023
New Second Home Tax in Vienna in 2025
Vienna is implementing new measures to regulate second homes. From 2025, an annual tax will be introduced for people who have a secondary residence in Vienna but do not have their main residence there.
December 21, 2023
Controversy and Approval: Ümit Vural's Re-election as IGGÖ President
The re-election of Ümit Vural as President of the Islamic Religious Community in Austria (IGGÖ) shows both strong approval and significant controversy.
December 11, 2023
Israel Raises Travel Warnings: Tightened Security Situation in Austria and Europe
In a significant security measure, Israel's National Security Staff has increased travel warnings for its citizens in several countries, including Austria, Germany, France and the UK. The decision follows growing threats from Iran and its allies, as well as an increase in anti-Semitism worldwide.
December 4, 2023
75 Years of Human Rights: Vienna's Public Transportation as a Stage for the United Nations
In 2023, a special event will mark the awareness of human rights in Austria, Slovakia, and Hungary. To mark the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the principles of "human dignity, freedom, and justice for all" will be highlighted in a campaign that will take place on public transport in these countries.
November 28, 2023
Austria in the Fight Against Violence Against Women
In Austria and around the world, the fight against violence against women and girls is being pursued with vigor. This is reflected in various initiatives and events that raise awareness of this important issue and promote concrete measures to combat such violence.
November 28, 2023
Revolutionizing E-Mobility in Austria: Introduction of the E-Control Tariff Calculator for E-Charging Stations
In a new initiative to promote e-mobility, the Austrian regulatory authority E-Control has introduced a new comparison calculator for public e-charging points.
November 23, 2023
Natural History Collections Document Loss of Biodiversity
Natural history collections are not only valuable cultural archives but also crucial research infrastructures that document the Earth's biodiversity and its loss. In a time of global change, these collections are becoming increasingly important.
November 15, 2023
Austria Intensifies its Fight Against Anti-Semitism: New Legal Reforms and Culture of Remembrance
On the occasion of the Remembrance Day of the November protests and at a time of global unrest and growing anti-Semitic tendencies, Austria has taken decisive steps to intensify the fight against anti-Semitism. This commitment manifests itself in a series of initiatives ranging from the reform of existing laws to the promotion of an active culture of remembrance.
November 13, 2023
Vienna Mutfluencer Project: An Example of European Solidarity Awarded the Citizens' Prize
In a time of global challenges, the Viennese social project "Mutfluencer*innen" has received significant recognition for its commitment by being awarded the European Citizen's Prize 2023. The initiative, which was launched in the summer of 2021, aims to empower young people - especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds - to face the challenges of crises, isolation, and fears for the future.
November 7, 2023
"Peace" Exhibition at the Jewish Museum Vienna: A Sign of Hope in Times of Conflict
In the heart of Vienna, the Jewish Museum Vienna, part of Wien Holding, is opening an exhibition dedicated entirely to peace - a bold statement at a time when the echo of war can be felt both in Israel and in Europe. Under the honorable patronage of Federal President Dr. Alexander Van der Bellen, the exhibition will be presented to the public at the Museum Judenplatz.
November 7, 2023
Vienna Pioneer for Circular Economy: Climate Lab as a Spark for Climate Transformation
In the heart of Vienna, more precisely at the Climate Lab in Vienna Spittelau, an innovative movement has emerged that has the potential to fundamentally change the way Austria's economy deals with its resources. Climate Protection Minister Leonore Gewessler and the top representatives of Austria's largest companies came together to drive forward a sustainable transformation of Austria as a business location, with the Climate Lab playing a key role.
November 5, 2023
Austrian Blue Helmet Forum and Association of Austrian Peacekeepers
The significant gathering of civilian and military experts at the "Blue Helmet Forum" hosted by the "Association of Austrian Peacekeepers" at the National Defense Academy showcased Austria's international commitment to peace and conflict resolution.
October 30, 2023
Discussion on European Elections 2024 with Prominent Guests
In Vienna, a significant event was held at the House of the European Union to kick off the 2024 European elections. Among the renowned speakers were Dr. Othmar Karas, First Vice President of the European Parliament, Dr. Thomas Zehetner from WWF, and Dr. Clemens Pig from the Austria Press Agency (APA). The discussion focused on four central topics: Democracy, Climate Protection, Digitalization, and Education. In parallel, the new initiative "gemeinsamfuer.eu" was presented.
October 30, 2023
Austria's National Day: A Look Back and an Appeal for the Future
On October 26, Austria celebrates its National Day, a date deeply rooted in the country's history and at the same time an opportunity to look to the future. The day marks the anniversary of the proclamation of perpetual neutrality in 1955, a pivotal moment in Austria's postwar history. But what does this day mean to the people of Austria and how does it connect to the challenges of the present?
October 26, 2023
Democracy in Crisis: How Austria's Democracy Index Reveals Alarming Trends
In recent years, democracy in Austria seemed to be on a good path. But the current Democracy Index raises eyebrows: The state of the democratic infrastructure is stagnating, and in some areas, there has even been regression. There is particular cause for concern in the areas of fundamental rights and the media landscape. But why is that and what can be done to counteract it?
October 26, 2023
75 Years of Human Rights: A Light Art Celebration in the Heart of Vienna
The Parliament in Vienna will become a radiant work of light art between November 2023 and January 2024 to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the signing of the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Austrian artist Victoria Coeln, known for her impressive light installations in world-famous locations, will transform the facade of the Parliament into a shining symbol of diversity, freedom, dignity, and rights for all.
October 24, 2023
Vienna's Mayor Establishes "Council of Religions" to Foster Interfaith Dialogue and Peace
Vienna's Mayor, Michael Ludwig, convened a significant meeting at the cityhall, bringing together representatives from diverse religious groups in response to recent developments in the Middle East. These events underscore the vital role of religious tolerance and understanding in maintaining peaceful coexistence in society.
October 19, 2023
Explore a World of Opportunities at Diplomatische Akademie Wien's Open House 2023
The Diplomatic Academy of Vienna – Vienna School of International Studies invites aspiring graduate students from Austria and around the world to discover a world of academic and career possibilities at its Open House event on Wednesday, November 15, 2023.
October 19, 2023
Fulbright Scholars and Gilman Scholars: Exchange, Knowledge and Connection
U.S. Ambassador Victoria Kennedy opened the doors of her residence to welcome returning Austrian Fulbright Scholars, newly arrived U.S. Fulbright students and scholars, board members, program partners, distinguished alumni, and also the Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship Program.
October 15, 2023
Othmar Karas' Reckoning with the ÖVP
For about 25 years, Othmar Karas, the first vice president of the EU Parliament, was a weighty member of the Austrian People's Party (ÖVP) in the European context. His withdrawal from the EU election and the associated clear criticism of his party caused a political stir in Austria.
October 12, 2023
Louise Bourgeois: Unwavering Resistance at the Belvedere
At the Belvedere Museum, the exhibition is dedicated to the renowned artist Louise Bourgeois and was opened with a festive vernissage. Present were the French ambassador Gilles Pécout, the general director of the Belvedere Stella Rollig, and the curators Sabine Fellner and Johanna Hofer.
October 8, 2023
Austria Wants to Be One of the Most Sustainable Destinations in the World
The extent to which the issue of climate change now affects all areas of our lives was also evident at this year's Expo Real in Munich.
Birgit Adelsberger · October 8, 2023
Austrian Group Shows at Expo Real 2023 how Sustainable Real Estate Works
Sustainability was a big topic at this year's Expo Real in Munich. Many of the conferences, which again featured high-caliber participants, addressed the topic of ESG (Environmental Social Governance) in connection with the various aspects of the real estate industry.
Birgit Adelsberger · October 8, 2023
The Red Carpet for Art: Fair for Art Vienna 2023
From October 7 to 15, 2023 the "Fair for Art Vienna", the platform for modern and contemporary art, rolls out the red carpet for art again. For the seventh time, the art fair invites to the Aula der Wissenschaften in Vienna's Wollzeile, where more than 40 renowned art experts from Austria and Germany gather for a joint sales show.
September 15, 2023 · Updated: October 6, 2023; 10:09 · Sponsored Content