Vienna, important visitor information

Climate
Austria enjoys a temperate Central European climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are hot with cool nights. In Vienna and other low-lying cities temperatures during the day can get uncomfortably hot over July and August. Winters are cold, below freezing in January and February. The ski season in the Alps runs from December to April but the mountains are also popular with hikers and climbers over the summer when the weather is usually warm and bright.

Time
GMT +1 (GMT +2 from the last Sunday in March to the last Sunday in October).

Electricity
Electrical current is 220 volts, 50Hz. The European round 2-pin plugs are standard.

Money
The unit of currency is the Euro (€), which is divided into 100 cents. Currency can be exchanged at banks and bureaux de change available in all towns, but it may be easier to use the ATMs. Banks are closed on Saturdays and Sundays, but exchange offices at airports and major city rail terminals are open seven days a week. Major credit and debit cards are widely accepted though some small hotels and restaurants may only accept cash. Travellers cheques are also accepted.

Language
The official language is German.

Entry requirements for UK nationals
UK passport holders do not require a visa for travel to Austria . Those with passports designated 'British National (Overseas) do require a visa. A passport is required.

Health
No vaccinations are necessary for business visits or general tourism. There is, however, a risk of tick-borne encephalitis for long-term visitors who expect to be visiting rural or forested areas in spring or summer. These travellers should consider vaccination and ensure they take precautions against tick infestation. Water and food are safe. Medical facilities are excellent. Medical insurance is advised unless from the UK - citizens of EU countries can get free medical treatment at public hospitals in Austria on production of passport.

Tipping
A 10-15% service charge is automatically added to hotel and restaurant bills, but it is usual to leave another 5% if satisfied with the service. It is customary to give the money to the waiter rather than leave it on the table. It is usual to leave small change for most service personnel. Taxis expect a 10% tip.

Safety
Travel to Austria is generally trouble-free, however visitors are advised to take sensible safety precautions particularly in larger cities.

Communications
The international access code for Austria is +43. The outgoing code is 00 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 0044 for the United Kingdom ). Public telephone boxes can be used for direct dial calls within the country and overseas. Internet cafes are widely available.

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