Traveling to Austria from the UK? Let’s Plan Your Itinerary

Why Visit Austria in 2025 and How to Get There

Austria remains one of the most refined yet approachable European destinations. In 2025, enhanced rail connections, expanded cultural festivals, and a continued focus on sustainable tourism make it an excellent choice for UK holidaymakers.

Flights from London, Manchester, Edinburgh, and Birmingham reach Vienna, Salzburg, and Innsbruck in under two and a half hours. Airlines such as British Airways, Ryanair, Jet2, and Austrian Airlines provide frequent services. For those preferring overland travel, Eurostar and ÖBB Railjet trains allow seamless journeys via Brussels and Munich into Austria.

Austria vacation packages from the UK often include return flights, hotel stays, airport transfers, and optional excursions—ideal for city-based or multi-stop holidays.

What to Do with 3 Days in Austria

A short trip is best centred around Vienna, the capital known for baroque streetscapes, classical music, and coffeehouse culture.

Spend your first day visiting Schönbrunn Palace, the Hofburg, and the historic centre. Enjoy an evening concert at the Vienna State Opera or Musikverein.

On day two, explore the Kunsthistorisches Museum and Belvedere Palace. Relax with a slice of Sachertorte in a traditional café before strolling through the Naschmarkt.

For day three, take a half-day trip to the Vienna Woods or travel to Bratislava, which is just over an hour away by train or boat.

This itinerary fits well within 3 day Austria vacation packages that include central hotel stays, museum tickets, and cultural experiences.

How to Spend 7 Days in Austria

A week-long journey allows you to combine city culture with natural beauty. Begin with three nights in Vienna, covering palaces, galleries, and concert halls.

On day four, take the train to Salzburg. Spend two days exploring Mozart’s birthplace, the hilltop fortress, and Mirabell Gardens. Consider a Sound of Music tour or a river cruise on the Salzach.

For the final two days, head to Hallstatt or the Salzkammergut lake district. Enjoy alpine villages, boat rides, and scenic hikes before returning to Vienna or Salzburg for your flight home.

Many 7 day Austria vacation packages from the UK include transport, centrally located hotels, and guided sightseeing in each destination.

All Inclusive and Senior Friendly Packages

Austria is exceptionally senior-friendly thanks to its clean cities, accessible attractions, and reliable public transport. All inclusive Austria holidays often bundle cultural outings, meals, and comfortable accommodation into one price.

Senior travellers can opt for slow-paced itineraries with escorted walking tours, classical concerts, and wellness stays in thermal spa towns like Bad Ischl or Bad Gastein. Packages typically feature:

– 4-star accommodation with elevators and quiet surroundings

– English-speaking guides and 24/7 local assistance

– Scenic rail transfers with luggage support

– Flexible schedules with rest time and light activities

UK tour providers like Riviera Travel, Saga Holidays, and Titan Travel specialise in Austria holidays tailored to older travellers—often with added perks like skip-the-line access and cultural extras.

How to Get Around and Where to Stay

Austria’s national railway (ÖBB) offers punctual and scenic connections between cities, lakes, and alpine towns. Train stations are centrally located and easy to navigate. For regional travel, buses and trams are clean and tourist-friendly.

Vienna’s U-Bahn and Salzburg’s trolleybus system make inner-city exploration straightforward. Day passes and group tickets are available at a discount.

In Vienna, stay in the Innere Stadt or MuseumsQuartier for proximity to landmarks. Salzburg’s Old Town offers heritage hotels and boutique guesthouses. Hallstatt and Zell am See feature alpine lodges and lakeside resorts for a tranquil experience.

Platforms like Jet2holidays, Trailfinders, and Expedia offer Austria vacation packages with hotel and transport from the UK. For escorted or senior-focused travel, Titan Travel and Great Rail Journeys offer curated, multi-day options.

FAQs & Final Thoughts

Do UK travellers need a visa to visit Austria?

No. UK citizens can stay up to 90 days in Austria without a visa.

Is Austria part of the EU and Schengen Zone?

Yes. It uses the Euro and follows Schengen travel rules.

What’s the best time to visit Austria?

April to June and September to early November offer mild weather and cultural events. December is ideal for festive markets. January to March suits ski trips.

Is Austria safe for solo or senior travellers?

Yes. It’s one of the safest and cleanest countries in Europe.

Can I use my UK mobile phone in Austria?

Yes. EU roaming rules apply, but confirm with your provider post-Brexit for any new charges.

Do people speak English in Austria?

Yes, especially in tourist areas. Staff in hotels, restaurants, and transport hubs often speak good English.

Is tap water safe to drink?

Absolutely. Austria’s tap water is among the purest in the world.

What currency is used?

The Euro (EUR). Most places accept cards, but small cash amounts are useful in markets and rural towns.

Are Austria’s rail stations accessible?

Yes. Major stations have elevators, ramps, and customer service for assistance.

Do I need to tip in Austria?

Yes, but modestly. Round up in cafés and leave around 5–10% in restaurants.

Final Thoughts

Austria offers a harmonious mix of tradition, elegance, and natural beauty—all easily reached from the UK. Whether you’re seeking a cultural city break, a scenic rail trip, or a senior-friendly all inclusive holiday, Austria’s well-structured tourism makes it simple to build your ideal itinerary. With reliable transport, beautiful scenery, and rich heritage, Austria is ready to welcome UK travellers in 2025 with comfort and charm.