The best time to visit Austria for outdoor activities like hiking and boating is during their summer, between June and August. There are more crowds than in other seasons, but these are less overwhelming than those you鈥檒l find in destinations like France or Italy.
The best time to visit Austria for winter sports is between December and February. There are ample opportunities to ski or snowboard in the lofty Alpine peaks, where you can admire the snowy mountainscapes. The cities and villages blossom with Christmas markets, bringing lights and festivities each December.
Austria has hot summers, with temperatures in the early-to-mid twenties, and cold winters of around 0°C-3°C. Between these two seasons, you鈥檒l find months with lighter crowds, and cool daytime temperatures that become chilly in the evenings. However, it鈥檚 rarely too sweltering or biting to enjoy the region, making it a year-round destination.
Month-by-month guide for travelling in Austria
Visiting Austria in January - February
Snow turns the Alps into a playground for winter sports, including ice skating, sledding and cross-country skiing. You can visit a variety of competitions. The weather in the higher elevations is very cold and windy, so pack accordingly.
In the cities, the weather is more moderate, with temperatures usually above freezing during the day. Hearty visitors there to see the cultural sights will find good value at hotels, thin crowds and cityscapes transformed by the snow.
Visiting Austria in March - May
The weather is still chilly this time of year, with daytime temperatures hovering between 10°C and 17°C (50s and 60s °F) in the cities. This translates to thinner crowds, meaning the hotels offer good value. Winter sports are less certain in the mountains, but it’s a lovely time to explore the cities.
Visiting Austria in June - August
The summer months are hot but not sweltering and offer ample opportunity for outdoor adventures. Venture to the mountains for hiking and the lake district towns of Saint Wolfgang and Hallstatt to enjoy the water. You鈥檒l find plenty of other visitors, both international and local, but the crowds are bustling rather than pressing.
Visiting Austria in September - November
Summer crowds thin as the temperatures start to dip, making this a good time to enjoy both the cities and countryside. You鈥檒l find better value at hotels and the atmosphere is a bit quieter with fewer visitors.
Visiting Austria in December
Despite the cold weather and snow, December is often one of the busiest months in Austria thanks to the wealth of Christkindlmarkts. Stalls strung with festive lights pop up in cities and towns across the country, selling seasonal food and drink, as well as Christmas gifts. There鈥檚 often entertainment, as well.
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Travel advice
Practical tips for travelling to Austria, from social protocols to guidance on money matters, with a link to the latest FCDO travel advice.