A valid Schengen visa is required to visit Austria. A short term visa is needed if somebody wishes to stay for less than 3 months. Passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of return.
Since the country is landlocked and bordered by eight other countries with their own distinctive cultures, the people of each province tend to be different. Surrounded by so many other cultures, Austria has often been subjected to cultural "invasions," which are a source of the differences among the provinces. Many people fled to Austria from the former Czechoslovakia and Hungary.
Although the Austrian population is strongly homogeneous, there are sizable Croatian, Slovene, Hungarian, Czech, and Slovak minorities, and the preservation of their language and culture is guaranteed by Austria's constitutional law. Tourism contributes a substantial portion to the economy, especially ski resorts in the Alps and cultural attractions in Vienna and Salzburg.
Vienna boasts one of the world's most famous culinary traditions. A diverse yet delectably harmonious range of dishes reflects the city's mix of nationalities and food cultures through the centuries, and inspires visitors from all over the globe.
Austrian food is probably at its most creative when it comes to bread spreads. They are closely connected to Viennese, Lower Austrian, and Styrian wineries, which traditionally serve them. The more sophisticated variations include chopped pickled gherkins, onions and anchovies. Other popular bread spreads include the Styrian Verhackertâs, based on finely chopped bacon.
Austrians in general love to enrich clear soups with all sorts of solid ingredients, some of which differ by region. Semolina balls, liver dumplings, bacon dumplings, strips of pancake, soup pearls, and egg puffs are the most popular add-ons. You will find almost all of them in every decent Austrian restaurant.
Austria has a rich culture and history which is celebrated throughout the country in many different ways. A visit to Austria during a holiday can enhance your vacation and add even more unforgettable experiences.
Christmas is a special time in Austria and a wonderful time to visit the country, whether you are skiing in the Alps, touring, or staying in a city. It is a really important festival there, and a special time for families. If you get the chance to stay in one of the Austrian zimmers around the country, you may even be lucky enough to take part in the celebrations.
If you travel to Austria during the Easter holidays you will have the opportunity to visit a number of festivals. The Salzburg Easter Festival is a well-known annual event. Featuring opera and classical music, with the Berliner Philharmonic orchestra, this attracts many visitors to the city. Easter markets also open in many towns and cities, with the biggest one in Vienna.
Czech Republic and Austria of Eastern Europe (6 Nights / 7 Days)
Netherlands with Austria (7 Nights / 8 Days)
Eastern Paradise (9 Nights / 10 Days)
Eastern Europe (11 Nights / 12 Days)
Eastern Capitals (9 Nights / 10 Days)
Central European Escapades (16 Nights / 17 Days)
Eastern Paradise with Italy (14 Nights / 15 Days)