Official Name: Republic of Austria
Capital: Vienna
Size: 83 879 km²
Population: 8,623,073 (2015 estimate)
Official language: German
EU member state since: 1 January 1995
Currency: Euro
Austria lies in Central Europe, most of its terrain, about 70% is mountainous and over 500m. It borders Slovakia and Hungary to the east, Slovenia and Italy to the south, Lichtenstein and Switzerland to the west and Germany and Czech Republic to the north.
Austria is famous from its remarkable mountain landscape. It is the winter sports capital of Europe, but you won’t be disappointed if you visit during the summer months as the historic cities and villages are great tourist attractions. The Alps – the biggest mountains in Europe – offer you great scenery and hiking tours in summertime. Austria has got 9 federal states and they all have their separate and inimitable culture, therefore they are hard to classify. The typical beer drinking, yodelling stereotype does not match the majority of the population.
The official language in Austria is German which is known as Austrian German as there are some differences both in vocabulary and pronunciation not to mention the distinct accents of the different regions. English is widely spoken in most known/visited tourist regions. If you visit the countryside you will find that the over 50s rarely speak English, therefore it is recommended that you learn a few useful phrases or carry a pocket phrasebook with you.
Austria has got 6 airports they all have connections to other European countries via low cost carriers. The most important airport for international travellers is Vienna, you can find flights from here to most major airports of the world.
www.austria-tourism.at
Forget the stereotypical images of Austria of yodelling, Lederhosen and the Sound of Music!
Welcome to a whole new world of fun-filled holidays, from blissful relaxation to action-packed adventure.
In winter, Austria adopts the motto “from the slopes to the spas” and becomes a vast winter playground of fun!
Visit one of Austria’s many Christmas markets and sample the mulled wine, ski openings and to explore the magic of snow on and off piste… and Austria’s great value will astound you!