Vienna International Guide to Lifestyle, Travel, Arts & Culture & More

Find additional ways to spend your time in Vienna: Local Austrian culture, international culture, style, books, fashion, arts, theaters, exhibitions, movies

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

"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

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

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

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

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

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

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

"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

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

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

Nobel Prize in Physics 2023: Ferenc Krausz - From Vienna to Global Fame

The 2023 Nobel Prize in Physics has been awarded to Hungarian-Austrian physicist Ferenc Krausz, in recognition of his outstanding contributions to particle research and attosecond physics. The Nobel Committee made the announcement recently in Stockholm. Krausz shares the prestigious prize with his colleague Anne L'Huillier and his colleague Pierre Agostini.

October 4, 2023

Vienna Wins the "EU Organic Award": "Wiener Gusto" Named Best Organic Brand

The city of Vienna once again has a reason to celebrate. At this year's European Union Organic Awards, the city's food brand "Wiener Gusto" was named "Best Organic City". This important "EU Organic Award" was presented by the European Commission in a festive ceremony in Brussels. As a representative of the City of Vienna, Climate City Councillor Jürgen Czernohorszky proudly accepted the award.

September 26, 2023

New Start for the Repair Bonus: Safer, but with Longer Waiting Times

After an abrupt halt in the summer due to fraud, the repair bonus is now returning. In a revised version aimed at preventing fraud, customers can now apply for the bonus again. However, the security measures are associated with longer waiting times.

September 24, 2023

Vienna Wine Hiking Day: Pleasurable Hikes Through Vienna's Picturesque Vineyards

The autumnal splendor of Vienna's vineyards is calling! On September 23 and 24, 2023, the City of Vienna will once again open the doors to its traditional Wine Walk Day, a feast for all the senses. Learn more about Vienna wine culture!

September 18, 2023

Discrimination on the Housing Market: A Growing Problem in Austria

A recent SORA study conducted on behalf of the Ombud for Equal Treatment highlights a serious problem in Austria's real estate market: racism and discrimination. People with foreign-sounding names or accents have significantly fewer chances of being invited to view an apartment compared to people with typical Austrian names.

September 14, 2023

Green Peak Festival 2023: Austria's Pioneer for Climate Protection and Entrepreneurship

The renowned Green Peak Festival, which has established itself in the heart of Vienna as Austria's flagship event for sustainability and entrepreneurship, impressed once again. For the second year in a row, over 800 participants gathered to network, exchange ideas and discuss the latest developments in sustainability. The project was supported this year by the Embassy of Israel.

September 11, 2023

New Regulations in Vienna: Year-round Outdoor Cafés and Green Parklets

In an innovative response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the City of Vienna has adopted new regulations for catering establishments and public lounges. Both Schanigärten (Viennese Outdoor Cafés) and the green parklets known as "Grätzloasen" are now allowed to remain in public spaces all year round.

September 10, 2023

Austria's Foreign Cultural Conference 2023: A Look into the Past and the Future

The Austrian Foreign Ministry is celebrating a special anniversary. For 50 years, half a century, it has represented Austria's cultural heritage and current artistic developments abroad. At this year's Foreign Cultural Conference reception, the focus was not only on the past but above all on the future.

September 10, 2023

Israeli Ambassador Received Federal Association Medal for Services to the Jewish Community in Austria

In a moving ceremony, Israeli Ambassador Mordechai Rodgold was awarded the "Great Golden Medal of Honor" by the Federal Association of Jewish Communities in Austria. This honor not only marked a remarkable recognition of his work but was also the first time that an Israeli ambassador was awarded this medal. In the presence of leading community representatives and dignitaries, the award ceremony became both an emotional farewell and a celebration of the close ties between Ambassador Rodgold and the communities in Vienna and throughout Austria.

September 6, 2023

House of History Austria Sets an Example with Special Guided Tours to the "Hitler Balcony"

The House of Austrian History (hdgö) is adding two special tours at short notice to its program, which will take a look at the so-called "Hitler Balcony". The tours will take place on September 7 and 14, 2023, and will be led by Director Monika Sommer under the title "(K)ein Hitler-Balkon" (No Hitler Balcony).

September 4, 2023

Austria's Positive Path Towards Citizenship for Descendants of National Socialism Victims

Austria took an important step in October 2019 to live up to its historical responsibility. Parliament made it possible for the descendants of persecutees of National Socialism to obtain citizenship through a "notification". This significant amendment to the Citizenship Law came into force on September 1, 2020. In view of the third anniversary of this change, Foreign Minister Schallenberg draws a positive conclusion.

September 3, 2023

Ceremonial Reception for the Armed Forces Day of the Republic of Türkiye

Given the Armed Forces Day of the Republic of Türkiye, the Ambassador of the Republic of Turkey, H.E. Ozan Ceyhun, and Military Attaché Colonel Serdar Mercan invited to a reception. The event took place at the Turkish Embassy in Vienna and also marked the first diplomatic meeting after the summer break.

August 31, 2023

Austrian Integration Fund Language Portal: Innovative German Learning with over 5,000 Exercises

The newly launched ÖIF language portal presents itself as the largest learning platform in the German-speaking world. Over 25,000 people use the services of the Austrian Integration Fund (ÖIF) every day to improve their German language skills.

August 23, 2023

Mowing Sheep Enrich Flora and Fauna of Vienna's Danube Island

As part of a pioneering EU project, the Danube Island's new and gentle inhabitants have proven to be surprisingly efficient lawnmowers. Around 70 sheep find a temporary home on the Danube Island during the summer months. As natural lawnmowers, they help to revitalize the island's flora and fauna and promote biodiversity.

August 21, 2023

Europe's Largest Flower Show: 70 Years of Floral Art in Tulln

A tradition that began 70 years ago with a flower parade on Tulln's main square has developed into Europe's largest flower show: The International Horticultural Fair Tulln, which takes place from August 31 to September 4, celebrates the anniversary under the motto "The best of 70 years - the great anniversary flower show".

August 17, 2023