Vienna International Travel Guide
Find the best travel activities in Vienna and Austria
Lufthansa Centralizes Power: AUA Loses Authority, But Expects Positive Effects
The Lufthansa Group, which also includes Austrian Airlines (AUA), is planning a far-reaching restructuring of the group that will concentrate more power at its Frankfurt headquarters. Following the plan, the subsidiaries, including Swiss and Brussels Airlines, will relinquish responsibilities starting at the beginning of next year.
August 25, 2025
Eurovision Song Contest 2026: Vienna Prepares, Economy Benefits
The Eurovision Song Contest (ESC) 2026 promises to be not only a musical highlight but also a powerful economic boost for the Austrian capital. According to a recent study by the economic research institute ECO Austria, demand is expected to increase by 57 million euros.
August 21, 2025
Austria Calls for “Roam Like at Home” for the Western Balkans Too
Austrian state secretaries are calling for equal treatment in roaming charges and appealing to the EU to include the countries of the Western Balkans in the upcoming roaming regulations. Similar to Ukraine, which is to be integrated into the EU roaming area from 2026, the Austrian representatives see the need to give the accession candidates in the Western Balkans a clear perspective in everyday digital life.
August 11, 2025
Just in Time for the End of Summer: Vienna Public Transportation Ends Summer Construction Projects
The major summer construction spurt at Wiener Linien is coming to an end. Just in time for the start of school on September 1, numerous restrictions on the tram and subway network will be lifted. According to Wiener Linien, the extensive modernization work, which is intended to strengthen the backbone of public transport in the Danube metropolis, is on schedule.
August 10, 2025
Politics and Culture in Focus: Salzburg Festival 2025 Opens with International Guests and Political Debates
The 105th Salzburg Festival opened with high-ranking state guests and political debates. The focus was on the opening speech by Federal President Alexander Van der Bellen, the keynote speech by award-winning journalist Anne Applebaum, and a state visit by Romanian President Nicușor-Daniel Dan.
August 4, 2025 · Sponsored Content
AUA Resumes Flights to Tel Aviv in August
Austrian Airlines (AUA) will resume flights to the Israeli metropolis of Tel Aviv on August 1. The Lufthansa subsidiary announced this decision following a “thorough security assessment.”
July 25, 2025
Austrian Government Opens Bregenz Festival 2025 with Appeal for Visionary and Responsible "Mindset"
The Bregenz Festival 2025 had been officially opened. The opening ceremony, which attracted high-ranking representatives from politics and culture, focused on Austrian President Alexander Van der Bellen and Austrian Vice-Chancellor Andreas Babler. Both argued in their speeches that we are living in a forward-looking and critical time, emphasizing the importance of showing courage and responsibility.
July 21, 2025
Vienna Airport Defies Global Challenges with Strong Half-Year Results
Vienna International Airport (VIE) experienced solid passenger growth in the first half of 2025, despite a slight decline in June, attributed to the ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel. A total of 14.7 million passengers traveled through Vienna Airport between January and June, representing a 2.4 percent increase compared to the same period last year.
July 15, 2025
Prix Ars Electronica 2025: Robotics and AI in the Spotlight of Media Art
The renowned Prix Ars Electronica has announced its winning projects for 2025, with robotics and artificial intelligence (AI) playing a particularly prominent role. From nearly 4,000 submissions from 98 countries, four Golden Nicas and numerous other awards were presented, underscoring the diversity and innovative power of the media art scene worldwide.
July 7, 2025
Vienna: Still Among the World's Leading Conference Cities
Vienna consolidates its position as a leading global conference destination: after taking first place in the prestigious ranking of the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) in May, the city has now achieved second place worldwide for the third time in a row in the latest congress ranking of the Union of International Associations (UIA) for 2024.
July 4, 2025
Vienna Public Transport Company Opts for Air Conditioning and Increased Comfort for Passengers
Wiener Linien has recorded a record number of air-conditioned vehicles in its public transport network. According to the company, three out of four journeys on buses, subways, and trams are already air-conditioned. This is intended to make travel more comfortable for passengers, even on hot days.
July 4, 2025
Vienna No Longer the Most Livable City in the World: Copenhagen Takes Top Spot
After three years, Vienna has lost its top position in the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU) Global Liveability Index 2025 to Copenhagen. The Austrian capital now shares second place with Zurich. The main reason for Vienna's decline is a loss of points in the area of stability, influenced by foiled terrorist attacks.
July 1, 2025
Summer Night Concert at Schönbrunn: Premieres, Commemorations, and a Musical Journey
The idyllic Schönbrunn Palace will be the venue for the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra's annual Summer Night Concert this evening. Under a bright blue sky and against the majestic backdrop of the illuminated palace, thousands of music lovers gathered to enjoy an evening full of musical highlights. This year's concert featured numerous premieres, a touching minute of silence, and a musical journey across Europe.
June 13, 2025
Monaco’s Club Allemand International Uncovers Treasure in Vienna's Imperial Archives
What began as the annual cultural excursion for Monaco's Club Allemand International (International German Club) transformed into a historical discovery of significant proportions. During their recent trip to Vienna, members of the club unearthed a remarkable historical document about the Principality of Monaco, hidden for centuries within the imperial archives of the Hofburg Palace.
June 12, 2025
Sara James Concert Concludes the Cultural Program of the Polish Embassy in Vienna
The Embassy of the Republic of Poland in Austria, in cooperation with the Polish Institute in Vienna, organized an extraordinary concert by Sara James to mark the conclusion of the cultural program within the framework of the Polish Presidency of the Council of the European Union.
June 10, 2025
French Art History Festival: Austrian Cultural Diplomacy on Display
Austria was the guest country at this year's renowned “Festival of Art History,” which attracted up to 10,000 visitors and took place at the Palace of Fontainebleau, around 70 km south of Paris. The importance of cultural diplomacy for Austria was once again emphasized.
June 10, 2025
The MQ Summer Stage 2025 Kicks Off with Art, Music and Social Reflection
The MQ Summer Stage started its new season with a powerful mix of performance, music, and public art. The main courtyard of Vienna's MuseumsQuartier will once again be transformed into a stage for a diverse, freely accessible cultural program until the end of September - a venue that brings art, society, and the public together in a special way.
May 21, 2025
Thai Anantara Celebrates Debut in Austria with New Luxury Resort in Vienna
With the reopening of the Anantara Palais Hansen Vienna, the Thai hotel group Anantara Hotels & Resorts opened its first hotel in Austria in May 2025. The historic building on Schottenring, originally designed by architect Theophil Edvard von Hansen for the 1873 World Exhibition, has been extensively renovated over the past 18 months and repositioned as an urban luxury resort.
May 20, 2025
New Panda Ambassadors in Vienna: Chinas “Fluffy Diplomats” Renew Friendship with Austria
The two giant pandas “Lan Yun” and “He Feng” were officially welcomed to Schönbrunn Zoo with much media attention and political prominence. Federal President Alexander Van der Bellen, Federal Chancellor Christian Stocker, and Li Hongzhong, Vice President of the National People's Congress of the People's Republic of China, participated in the ceremony - a strong diplomatic signal in a globally complex time.
May 18, 2025
Concordia Ball 2025: An Anniversary Celebration for Freedom of the Press and Waltz Tradition
On May 23, 2025, Vienna City Hall will again be transformed into a glittering ballroom when the 125th Concordia Ball takes place. Organized by the Concordia Press Club, this traditional ball is dedicated to freedom of the press and at the same time honors Vienna's musical heritage.
April 29, 2025 · Sponsored Content
Vienna Plans Traffic-Restricted Inner City with Camera-Based Access Control
After years of discussion, the traffic restriction measures in Vienna's inner city are about to be implemented. A planned amendment to the Road Traffic Act (StVO) is to create the legal framework for automated camera access management. This amendment is being submitted to the government by Transport Minister Peter Hanke (SPÖ) and is due to come into force on January 1, 2026.
April 6, 2025
Beware of Online Fraud when Buying Vignettes
Beware when buying highway vignettes online: Fraudsters shamelessly exploit the search for cheap offers. Drivers are increasingly falling for fraudulent websites when purchasing vignettes, sometimes losing huge sums of money in the process. ASFINAG is now issuing another urgent warning about fake stores and giving important tips on how to protect yourself from such scams.
March 26, 2025
Expressionism in a New Light: Schiele Meets Nosferatu at the Heidi Horten Collection
With the exhibition “Experiment Expressionism - Schiele meets Nosferatu”, the Heidi Horten Collection in Vienna is opening an impressive show that brings painting and film art into a fascinating dialog.
March 23, 2025
Westbahn Expands: New high-speed Connection on the Southern Line From 2026
Westbahn is taking the next big step: From March 1, 2026, the private railroad company will offer five daily train connections between Vienna and Villach via the newly constructed Koralm Railway. With modern high-speed trains and a fast direct connection, Westbahn represents a serious alternative to ÖBB - especially for commuters and business travelers.
March 13, 2025
New Exhibition at the Wien Museum: “Reality as an Attitude. Viennese Realism after 1950”
At a time when the art world was increasingly moving in abstract and avant-garde directions, an artistic movement emerged in Vienna that consciously opposed this development: Viennese Realism after 1950. The Wien Museum is now dedicating a comprehensive exhibition to this often overlooked but important art movement entitled “Reality as an attitude: Viennese Realism after 1950,” seen at Musa from March 20 to August 17, 2025.
March 10, 2025
German Warning Strikes also Affect Air Traffic in Austria
A day-long warning strike at the most important German airports will not only bring air traffic in Germany to a standstill but will also have a significant impact on Austria. The German trade union ver.di has called for work stoppages at a total of 13 airports, including Munich, Stuttgart, Frankfurt, Cologne/Bonn, Düsseldorf, Dortmund, Hanover, Bremen, Hamburg, Berlin-Brandenburg and Leipzig-Halle. Public service and ground handling employees are affected.
March 9, 2025
Austrian Airlines Reports Weaker Result Despite Passenger Growth
Austrian Airlines (AUA) was able to increase its passenger numbers, the number of flights, and revenue by five percent in 2024. Nevertheless, the airline recorded a significant decline in its adjusted operating result (Adjusted EBIT), which fell by 40 percent to EUR 76 million. The Lufthansa subsidiary explained this with special one-off effects such as strikes in the first quarter and high costs as a result of geopolitical developments.
March 6, 2025
WIKAM 2025: A Celebration of Art in the Heart of Vienna
The Vienna International Art and Antiques Fair (WIKAM) will again open its doors at the historic Palais Ferstel from March 8 to 16, 2025. As one of Austria's most renowned art fairs, it offers art lovers and collectors an exquisite selection of works ranging from classical to modern art.
March 6, 2025 · Sponsored Content
New General Manager at Park Hyatt Vienna: Bastian Baumann Takes Over the Luxury Hotel
The renowned Park Hyatt Vienna will have a new General Manager from the beginning of 2025: Styrian-born Bastian Baumann will take over the management of the luxury hotel, bringing with him an impressive international career. After several positions in the Middle East, Asia, and Europe, he is now returning to Austria to lead the Hotel am Hof into the future with fresh ideas and a clear focus on the highest quality of service.
March 3, 2025
Glitter, Waltzes and Celebrities: The Vienna Opera Ball 2025 as a Social Highlight
The Vienna State Opera was again transformed into a magnificent ballroom and offered over 5,000 guests a glittering ball night that lasted until the early morning hours. This year, the Vienna Opera Ball 2025 was dedicated to the 200th birthday of Johann Strauss, the “Waltz King”, and offered a glamorous mix of top-class artistic performances, celebrity guests, and festive elegance.
February 28, 2025
Austria Welcomes the World: FIS Alpine Ski World Championships 2025 Kick Off in Saalbach
Saalbach-Hinterglemm has once again become the epicenter of the alpine skiing world as the FIS Alpine Ski World Championships 2025 officially begin. With athletes, fans, and officials from across the globe gathering in the Austrian Alps, the event promises thrilling races, unforgettable moments, and a celebration of winter sports excellence.
February 4, 2025
AUA to Fly to Tel Aviv Again from February
After a longer break, Austrian Airlines (AUA) will resume flight operations to Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv from February 1, 2025. This decision was announced in a company press release on Thursday and affects the entire Lufthansa Group, which includes Lufthansa, Swiss, Brussels Airlines, and Eurowings in addition to AUA. The resumption of flights to Tel Aviv signals a certain easing of the security situation in the region but remains characterized by caution.
January 21, 2025
Greens Launch Petition for the Preservation of the Climate Ticket
The Greens have today launched a petition to preserve the climate ticket in its current form. The background to this is speculation that a possible FPÖ-ÖVP coalition is planning to cancel or restrict the annual ticket for Austria's public transport system.
January 15, 2025
Vienna's Club Scene Between Crisis and Innovation: Saving the Capital's Nightlife from Dying Clubs
Vienna's club scene is coming under increasing pressure: rising prices, new nightlife habits, and the densification of urban space are creating an uncertain future. At the same time, local players are focusing on creative approaches to preserve the diversity of nightlife culture and offer clubs a future. A detailed look at the current challenges and planned measures shows how fragile and at the same time adaptable Vienna's nightlife is.
January 7, 2025
Westbahn Expands Offer: New Overnight Connection from Vienna to Salzburg
With the timetable change on December 15, 2024, the Westbahn is introducing a significant innovation: a daily night connection from Vienna to Salzburg. This additional late-night connection is aimed in particular at commuters, night owls, and travelers who want to travel comfortably from Vienna to the West even late at night.
December 16, 2024
Vienna's MA 35: Progress at the Dreaded Office, but Challenges Remain
Vienna's MA 35, responsible for immigration and citizenship, has long been regarded as a symbol of inefficient administration and endless waiting times. The City of Vienna wants to counteract this image with a comprehensive reform process. Initial successes have been achieved, but not all problems have been solved.
November 13, 2024
AUA Flights to Tel Aviv and Tehran Remain Suspended Due to Escalating Tensions
Austrian Airlines (AUA) is extending the suspension of flights to Tel Aviv and Tehran due to the uncertain situation in the Middle East. Connections to the Israeli coastal city of Tel Aviv are expected to remain suspended until November 25, while flights to Tehran will be canceled until the end of November.
October 28, 2024
ÖBB Increases Ticket Prices by 4.9 Percent
ÖBB announced that prices for standard tickets will increase by an average of 4.9 percent from December 15, 2024, in parallel with the winter timetable. This is the first price increase in 18 months. However, numerous tickets, including the popular Sparschiene tickets and seat reservations, will remain unaffected by the price adjustment.
October 17, 2024
Austrian Airlines Extends Flight Suspension to Tehran and Tel Aviv
Due to the ongoing tensions in the Middle East, Austrian Airlines (AUA) has decided to suspend flights to Tehran and Tel Aviv until at least the end of October.
October 15, 2024
Vienna: The Best City Destination in Europe for Americans
Vienna has once again proven that it is undisputed as a world-class travel destination. Readers of the renowned luxury and lifestyle magazine “Condé Nast Traveler” voted the Austrian capital the best European travel destination in this year's “Readers' Choice Awards” 2024.
October 5, 2024
Subway Lines in Vienna Back in Operation after Flooding - Delays with U6
Following the massive flooding and flood protection measures in Vienna, subway services are slowly returning to normal. From Wednesday morning, September 18, 2024, the U2, U3, and U4 lines will be fully operational again. However, there are still restrictions on the U6, as the line between Längenfeldgasse and Niederhofstraße is impaired due to water ingress.
September 17, 2024
Taylor Swift Concerts in Vienna Canceled Due to Suspected Terrorism - What Fans Need to Know Now
The cancellation of the Taylor Swift concerts in Vienna has left many fans disappointed and perplexed. After two suspected terrorists were arrested who had possibly planned an attack on the upcoming concerts, the organizer Barracuda Music decided to cancel the events. Fans are now wondering what costs will be reimbursed and how to proceed.
August 8, 2024
New Silent Villas at Therme Laa: Luxury in the Weinviertel Region
Therme Laa an der Thaya, a well-known recreational destination in Lower Austria, reached a new milestone. With the ceremonial opening of the ten new “Silent Villas”, the thermal spa is expanding its offer with an exclusive retreat for adults. The ceremony was attended by numerous representatives from tourism, business, and politics, including Governor Johanna Mikl-Leitner, who emphasized the importance of this expansion for the region.
July 31, 2024
Simpsons Cartoon Art: Unique Exhibition at the Caricature Museum Krems
To mark the 35th anniversary of the cult series “The Simpsons”, the Caricature Museum Krems is the first in Europe to present a special exhibition entitled “Here comes Bart! Simpsons Cartoon Art from the William Heeter and Kristi Correa Collection”.
July 16, 2024
Vienna Once Again Named the World's Most Liveable City
Vienna has done it again: for the third time in a row, the Austrian capital has been named the most liveable city in the world by the British "Economist" group. In the annual "Global Liveability Ranking", Vienna beat 172 other cities to take the top spot once again.
June 27, 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
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
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
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
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