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The Best & Worst Times to Visit Austria in 2024 (Our Take)

The Best & Worst Times to Visit Austria in 2024 (Our Take)

What's the best time to visit Austria?

The best time to visit Austria is in the spring shoulder months of April and May when temperatures are comfortable, averaging around 61°F (16°C), and the Alps still boast snow caps, making it ideal for skiing or snowboarding.

This period also hosts numerous outdoor events, including concerts and festivals, as the warmer weather draws people outside. April and May in Austria offer a balanced experience with moderate weather, fewer crowds, and a range of activities.

Austria receives billions of dollars each year from its tourism industry, and it’s easy to see why. From stunning mountain ranges to crystal-clear lakes, the country is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.

There are also lasting cultural traditions, a great food scene, fun nightlife, and a range of cities, towns, and villages to explore. But when is the best time to visit Austria? That’ll largely depend on what you’re looking for.

But don’t worry — we’ll share what people often consider the best and worst times and why so that you can factor in your preferences, budget, interests, and availability to make the best decision for your Austrian exploration.

Overall Best Time to Visit Austria

Very green landscape of the vineyards of Gamlitz in Eckberg pictured during the spring, the overall best time to plan a trip to Austria

Przemek Iciak/Shutterstock

The best time to visit Austria is typically during the spring shoulder months, between April and May. During this time, the weather is warming up, with highs hovering around 61°F (16°C), and the Alps are still snow-capped.

This is a great time to go skiing or snowboarding in the Alps because the weather isn’t so cold that you’ll be freezing the whole time, but it’s still cold enough in the mountains for snow-filled adventures.

You can also enjoy various events that take place all over the country at this time, such as outdoor concerts and festivals, as the weather is heating up and people are heading outside more often.

Overall, it’s hard not to love Austria in April and May because it’s not the sunniest, but it’s also not the most crowded or most expensive. You can also do a variety of activities during just one vacation if you go during this shoulder season.

Cheapest Time to Visit Austria

Neat statue in the middle of the town square in Innsbruck in Tyrol during the early winter, one of the cheapest times to visit Austria

Boris Stroujko/Shutterstock

The cheapest time to visit Austria is in October and November. This is the second shoulder season, in which the weather is starting to get chilly in preparation for Austrian winter.

This period is a great one for scoring deals on flights, accommodation, tickets, and excursions because the demand drops significantly from the peak tourist season in the summer (June through August).

Plus, you can still enjoy plenty of events and festivals during this time, such as Viennale, an international film festival.

These two months might be optimal for people who don’t mind the weather getting colder, want to explore the town by foot without heating up too much, or simply want to save hundreds of dollars on their trip and can forgo the perfect summer weather to do so.

Least Busy Time to Visit Austria

The historic town of Graz pictured toward the end of winter in March during the least busy time to visit Austria

Rene Walter/Shutterstock

The least busy time to visit Austria is during the low season, which is from November to March, with the exception of December and early January for the holiday season.

During this period, temperatures can plummet to as low as negative 4°F (minus 20°C), so if you’re not a fan of cold weather, this wouldn’t be the best time for you.

However, there are still plenty of events and festivals to experience, like Christmas markets, the Vienna Jazz Festival, and Easter markets.

This season is perfect for those looking to take advantage of lower prices or simply want to enjoy the country without the usual hustle and bustle. It’s a great time to explore Vienna by car and take in all of its beauty while avoiding the summer crowds.

Of course, the winter is also an ideal time to visit Austria if you’re interested in snowboarding and skiing, as the Alps are blanketed with a thick layer of snow. Overall, the least busy time to visit Austria still offers plenty of activities and has its special appeal.

Worst Time to Visit Austria

Salzburg Christmas Market pictured in the middle of November during the overall worst time to visit Austria

Calin Stan/Shutterstock

While up for debate depending on your preferences, the worst time to visit Austria is in November. Fewer events are going on, and it’s one of the rainiest months in Austria, right beside April.

Plus, you might have to start dealing with the colder temperatures of Austria without getting the benefit of this weather. For example, the Christmas markets start in mid-November, so if you go in early November, you might miss out on them.

Additionally, it might be cold enough to start bundling up but not cold enough or snowy enough to go skiing or snowboarding at every resort just yet.

Even still, visiting Austria in November may be ideal for someone who wants to prioritize avoiding large crowds so they can see the biggest sights in peace or save money.

Best Time to Visit Austria: Climate & Activities

Amazing view of Mirabell Gardens with Fortress Hohensalzburg in the background during the best time to visit Austria

Canadastock/Shutterstock

Still unsure about the best time to visit Austria? Take a look at our summary of the weather and climate by month below:

January

January in Austria is cold, with snow-covered landscapes ideal for winter sports. Visit ski resorts like St. Anton or Kitzbühel for world-class skiing, enjoy the beautiful Christmas markets in Vienna and Salzburg, and experience the traditional Viennese Ball season.

February

February continues with chilly weather, perfect for winter sports in Tyrol and Vorarlberg. Attend the elegant Opera Ball in Vienna, explore the historic streets of Graz, and enjoy warming Austrian cuisine like Wiener Schnitzel and Apfelstrudel.

March

As winter slowly transitions to spring, March temperatures in Austria are still cool. This month is great for late-season skiing in places like Innsbruck, visiting the Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna, and exploring the blooming Alpine gardens.

April

In April, Austria has milder weather with temperatures around 6 to 15°C (43-59°F). Visit the vibrant city of Linz, explore the Wachau Valley for wine tasting, and experience the Salzburg Easter Festival.

May

May sees warmer temperatures from 11 to 20°C (52-68°F). It’s an excellent time for hiking in the Austrian Alps, exploring the lakes of the Salzkammergut region, and enjoying the Vienna Festival with its cultural performances.

June

June brings pleasant weather, with temperatures between 15 to 25°C (59-77°F). Explore Vienna’s outdoor cafes and parks, attend the Midsummer Night’s Concert by the Vienna Philharmonic, and visit the historic town of Hallstatt.

July

July is warm, with temperatures from 17 to 27°C (63-81°F). Enjoy the vibrant Bregenzer Festspiele (Bregenz Festival) on Lake Constance, take scenic boat trips on Lake Wolfgang, and explore the picturesque city of Innsbruck.

August

August continues with warm weather, offering temperatures from 17 to 27°C (63-81°F). Visit the Salzburg Festival for music and drama, explore the Baroque architecture of Graz, and enjoy hiking in the Hohe Tauern National Park.

September

As fall begins in September, temperatures in Austria range from 13 to 22°C (55-72°F). September is perfect for wine festivals in the Lower Austria region, exploring the historic city of Salzburg, and enjoying the autumn colors in the Vienna Woods.

October

October sees cooler temperatures from 7 to 15°C (45-59°F). Visit the traditional Almabtrieb cattle parades in Tyrol, explore the museums and art galleries of Vienna, and enjoy the colorful fall foliage in the Austrian Alps.

November

Fall temperatures in November range from 2 to 8°C (36-46°F). This month is ideal for visiting the thermal spas of Bad Gastein and exploring Vienna’s coffee culture.

December

In December, Austria experiences colder temperatures ranging from -1 to 5°C (30-41°F). December is festive with Christmas markets across Austria, especially in Vienna, Salzburg, and Innsbruck, and offers excellent skiing and Christmas concerts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Neat cable car making its way up the hill to Salzwelten, Hallstatt, pictured during the best time to go to Austria

Gokcentunc/Shutterstock

Need a bit more info on Austria? Here are our answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about the visiting the country:

Is Austria better in summer or winter?

It depends on what type of activities you’d like to engage in. If you’re into skiing and snowboarding, then winter is your best bet. If you want to explore cities, take in the sights, and enjoy warmer temperatures, then summer is ideal.

How many days do you need in Austria?

How many days you should spend in Austria depends on your itinerary and what type of activities you plan to partake in. Generally speaking, it can take 5-7 days to get a good sense of the country and its culture.

However, if your plans are more ambitious, you want to spend an extended time in the mountains, or you want to explore neighboring countries as well, then you might want to carve out two weeks or longer.

When is the best time of year to visit Salzburg, Austria?

Salzburg is a beautiful city year-round, but the ideal time to visit is during the summer months when temperatures are pleasant and outdoor activities are in full swing. That said, the winter months are also quite popular, as Salzburg is a prime destination for skiing and snowboarding.

What is the hottest month in Austria?

July is the hottest month in Austria, with temperatures normally reaching the 70s Fahrenheit (mid-20s Celsius).

Is Austria nice in April?

Yes, Austria is quite pleasant in April, especially if you don’t mind wearing layers to stay warm. April is a great month to explore Austria outdoors, as temperatures are still cool enough for hiking. Plus, there’s little to no snow on the ground you’ll walk n, but the Alps still have picturesque blankets of snow on top.

Is Salzburg better than Vienna?

It’s hard to say which one between Salzburg and Vienna is better as it comes down to personal preference. Both cities have their own unique charms and attractions that make them worth exploring.

Salzburg is a smaller city with a more traditional feel and its own unique culture, while Vienna is the capital and is more cosmopolitan.

Is Austria worth visiting in the summer?

Unless you despise any form of crowds, Austria is certainly worth visiting in the summer. Yes, it’s the priciest time to go, and you may have to wait in line or deal with large tour groups.

But the natural beauty of Austria’s mountains, lakes, and cities will be worth it. Plus, there are plenty of outdoor activities in the summer months that you won’t be able to do in the winter.

What is there to do in Austria in December?

If you’re looking for things to do in Austria in December, there are plenty of festive activities that you can partake in. Head over to cities like Salzburg and Vienna to check out their Christmas markets, enjoy the festive decorations and lights, or sip on a cup of Glühwein.

You can also ski or snowboard in the Alps, take an ice skating lesson, or go for a horse-drawn sleigh ride. The possibilities are endless!

What should I not miss in Austria?

Whether you’re visiting in summer or winter, there’s plenty to do and see in Austria. Some of the highlights include exploring Vienna’s stunning architecture, visiting the Schönbrunn Palace, marveling at the artwork in the Klimt Museum, and taking a stroll around Hallstatt Lake.

Other must-dos include tasting the traditional cuisine, attending a local festival or event, and enjoying some of the country’s natural beauty.

So, What’s the Best Time to Visit Austria?

👍 Best Time to VisitApril-May
💲 Cheapest Time to VisitOctober-November
🗓️ Least Busy Time to VisitNovember-March
👎 Worst Time to VisitNovember

Overall, with its stunning nature, fascinating culture, opportunities for adventure, and delicious cuisine, Austria has so much to offer.

The best time to visit Austria is from April through May for agreeable weather without too many crowds. But no matter when you visit, Austria promises to delight. Happy travels!