Austria
Is Austria safe to visit? Advice, scams and health
Yes, Austria is safe for tourists, with low violent crime and reliable emergency services. The main risks are petty theft in crowded tourist spots, winter sports accidents and mountain weather. Use common sense, watch your belongings in Vienna and Salzburg, and check the latest government advisories before you go.
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Key facts
- Overall riskcheck
- Low; violent crime is rare, petty theft is the main concern
- Emergency numbers
- 112 · 133 police · 144 ambulance · 122 fire · 140 mountain rescue
- Common scams
- Pickpocketing, fake charity collectors, overcharging in tourist areas
- Winter sports
- Follow marked trails and check avalanche reports; accidents are the leading risk
- Mountain weather
- Can change fast; carry layers and check forecasts
- Government advisories
- Most countries rate Austria as low risk; check your own government's advice
Quick answer
Austria is safe for tourists. Violent crime is rare, and the main risks are petty theft in crowded places like Vienna's Stephansplatz and Salzburg's Getreidegasse, plus winter sports accidents and sudden mountain weather. Use common sense, keep valuables close, and check your government's travel advisory before you go.
Summary by risk
| Risk | Level | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Petty crime | Low to moderate | Watch bags in crowds; use hotel safes |
| Violent crime | Very low | Standard precautions; avoid late-night confrontations |
| Winter sports | Moderate | Follow marked runs; check avalanche reports |
| Mountain weather | Moderate | Check forecasts; carry layers and water |
| Road safety | Low | Obey speed limits; carry a vignette on motorways |
Levels are general guidance, not guarantees. Check your government's advisory for updates.
Common scams and how to avoid them
The most common scams in Austria are pickpocketing in tourist-heavy areas, fake charity collectors, and overcharging at restaurants or taxis in tourist zones. Keep your wallet in a front pocket, avoid engaging with strangers who approach you with petitions or sob stories, and confirm prices before ordering or getting into a taxi.
In Vienna, be extra careful on the U-Bahn and at major sights like Schönbrunn Palace. In Salzburg, watch your belongings on the Getreidegasse and near the fortress funicular. Use licensed taxis or ride-hailing apps, and always ask for a receipt.
- Pickpocketing: keep valuables in a money belt or front pocket in crowds.
- Fake charity collectors: ignore anyone asking for donations on the street.
- Overcharging: confirm menu prices and taxi fares before you commit.
- ATM skimming: use ATMs inside banks, not standalone machines.
Health and emergencies
Austria has excellent healthcare, but it is not free for visitors. Travel insurance is essential; it covers medical treatment, evacuation and winter sports injuries. The emergency numbers are 112 (general), 133 (police), 144 (ambulance), 122 (fire) and 140 (mountain rescue).
For winter sports, follow marked runs and heed avalanche warnings. In the mountains, check weather forecasts and carry appropriate gear. Tap water is safe to drink throughout Austria.
What government travel advisories say
Most governments, including the US, UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and Ireland, rate Austria as a low-risk destination. They note the usual precautions: watch for petty crime, be careful on the roads in winter, and check mountain conditions. Always check your own government's advisory for the latest updates before you travel.
FAQ
Sources and verification
Questions people ask
Is Austria safe for tourists?
Yes. Austria has low crime rates, and violent crime is rare. The main risks are petty theft in crowded tourist areas, winter sports accidents and mountain weather. Use common sense and check your government's advisory.
What are the most common scams in Austria?
Pickpocketing in tourist spots, fake charity collectors, and overcharging at restaurants or taxis. Keep valuables secure, ignore street solicitors, and confirm prices before you commit.
What do government travel advisories say about Austria?
Most governments rate Austria as low risk. They advise standard precautions against petty crime, caution on winter roads, and checking mountain conditions. Always check your own government's advisory for updates.
Is tap water safe to drink in Austria?
Yes, tap water is safe to drink throughout Austria. It meets high quality standards, and you can refill bottles at public fountains.
What should I do in a medical emergency?
Call 144 for an ambulance or 112 for general emergencies. Austria has excellent healthcare, but it is not free for visitors, so travel insurance is essential.
Are winter sports risky in Austria?
Winter sports carry some risk, mainly from accidents and avalanches. Follow marked runs, heed warnings, and check avalanche reports. Insurance covering winter sports is recommended.
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