Things Not To Do in Austria: Stay Clear of These Cultural Mistakes

Austria combines beautiful Alpine scenery with imperial grandeur, classical music tradition, and remarkable cultural heritage. But traveling to this Central European country comes with its own set of unwritten rules and customs that differ significantly from Indian norms.

Here’s a comprehensive guide to things not to do in Austria that will help you blend in like a seasoned traveler rather than standing out as a confused tourist.

1. Don’t Confuse Austria with Germany or Australia

Confusing Austria with Germany or Australia annoys locals. Though Austrians speak German, they have a distinct identity and culture. Tired kangaroo jokes don’t help. Austria is a Central European Alpine country- nowhere near Australia. Don’t assume Austrian culture is identical to German; locals are proud of their unique traditions.

Also Read: Austria Visa for Indians

2. Don’t Assume Everyone Speaks English

In cities, English is common, but assuming everyone speaks it, especially in rural areas, is a mistake. Learn a few basic German phrases like “Guten Tag” or “Danke.” Even a small effort shows respect. Indian tourists often find warmer responses when they try simple German greetings before switching to English.

3. Don’t Skip Polite Greetings (e.g., “Grüß Gott”, “Guten Tag”)

Always greet when entering shops or restaurants. In southern Austria, say “Grüß Gott”; elsewhere, use “Guten Tag” or “Servus.” When leaving, say “Auf Wiedersehen.” Silent shopping is seen as rude. In Austria, not greeting staff can offend, unlike in countries like India, where this isn’t customary.

4. Don’t Be Late: Punctuality is Essential

Being late is considered disrespectful. Austrians expect you to arrive 5–10 minutes early. Call ahead if delayed. Tardiness, especially for dinner or reservations, is among the biggest tourist faux pas. Indian travelers used to “flexible” timing should adjust to Austria’s strict standards of punctuality.

5. Don’t Skip Saying Goodbye When Leaving Shops or Social Gatherings

Always say goodbye (“Auf Wiedersehen” or “Schönen Tag noch”) when leaving shops or social events. Don’t sneak out. At parties, thank the host and say bye to guests. This polite farewell mirrors the importance of greetings and shows appreciation for time and service.

6. Don’t Take Photos of People Without Permission

Photography etiquette is strict. Don’t photograph people, especially kids, without asking. Privacy is taken seriously and laws protect it. This also applies in museums, restaurants, and homes. Indian tourists should ask before snapping pictures. Being respectful avoids awkward moments or even legal trouble.

Also Read: Top Austria Famous Foods You Must Try

7. Don’t Ignore Formal Titles or Use First Names Prematurely

Use formal titles like “Herr” or “Frau,” especially in professional settings. Academic and professional titles matter. Don’t use first names until invited. Being overly familiar too soon can feel intrusive. This formality is important and one of the top things tourists often overlook.

8. Don’t Make Loud Noises in Public or on Public Transport

Austrians value quiet in public. Loud conversations, phone calls, or noisy behavior in restaurants or transport are frowned upon. Keep your voice down. This contrasts with livelier public settings in India and is an essential adjustment for respectful travel in Austria.

9. Don’t Jaywalk—Always Wait for the Green Pedestrian Light

Jaywalking is illegal and socially unacceptable. Even without traffic, Austrians wait for the green pedestrian light. Police may fine offenders, especially in cities like Vienna. Parents teach kids by example. Following traffic rules is a must-do for respectful and lawful tourism.

Also Read: How to Book an Austria Visa Appointment?

10. Don’t Ignore Quiet Hours (Especially After 10 PM)

Austria enforces quiet hours from 10 PM to 6 AM and all day on Sundays. Avoid noise like music, loud conversation, or using appliances. Apartment buildings especially require silence. Neighbors may report violations. Respecting quiet times helps avoid conflicts and fines.

11. Don’t Skip Tipping in Restaurants and Cafés

Service is included, but tipping 5–10% is customary. Don’t leave coins on the table: round up the total and say “Stimmt so.” Not tipping suggests poor service. It’s a valued courtesy. Ignoring this is one of the most common ways to offend locals.

12. Don’t Drink Excessively or Behave Disruptively in Public

Austria has a strong drink culture, but excess is frowned upon. Avoid loud, drunken behavior, especially at festivals. Authorities may intervene. Austrians value order in public spaces. Among the top local pet peeves: public intoxication. Know your limit and stay respectful while drinking.

13. Don’t Rest Elbows on the Table During Meals

Keep your wrists on the edge of the table, not your elbows. It’s bad manners to lean in. Follow other etiquette too: don’t reach across, use utensils properly, break bread with hands, and keep napkins on laps. These simple steps show proper dining respect.

14. Don’t Touch Historical Artefacts or Displays in Museums

Austria is serious about preserving heritage. Don’t touch museum exhibits or palace interiors. Most sites have signs or guards. Even decorative elements are off-limits. This applies to churches and historical buildings. Touching displays is a major mistake first-time visitors should avoid.

Also Read: How to Check Austria Visa Status in India

15. Don’t Smoke in Non-Smoking Areas

Austria bans smoking in most indoor public places, including restaurants and transit. Follow signs and use designated smoking areas. Fines apply. Even if locals break rules, don’t copy them. As a tourist, you’re expected to follow smoking laws strictly and respectfully.

16. Don’t Litter or Ignore Recycling Rules

Austria’s recycling system is strict. Littering is fined and frowned upon. Use correct bins for paper, plastic, metal, glass, and organic waste. Mistakes in sorting can upset locals. Respecting recycling rules shows care for Austria’s environment and avoids unnecessary trouble as a visitor.

Also Read: Austria Visa Photo Size Requirement & Specification Guide

17. Don’t Discuss Sensitive Topics (e.g., WWII, Politics, Migration)

Avoid casual talk about WWII, politics, or immigration. These are sensitive issues tied to Austria’s history. If the topic comes up, listen respectfully. Don’t joke or judge. Keep such discussions for deeper, trusted conversations—not casual chats with shopkeepers or strangers.

18. Don’t Ask Personal Questions Too Soon

Privacy is important in Austria. Avoid asking about salaries, kids, relationships, or politics right away. Build rapport before going personal. Start with safe topics like food or travel. For Indian tourists used to open conversation, this cultural boundary is key to observe.

19. Don’t Assume Shops Are Open on Sundays

Retail shops usually close Sundays and holidays. Only airport, train station, and some tourist-area stores open. Plan shopping in advance. This reflects Austria’s work-life balance. For Indian tourists used to everyday mall access, it’s a big shift—don’t expect to shop on Sundays.

20. Don’t Show Up Ungroomed—Appearances Matter

Clean, neat appearance is expected in Austria. Casual is fine, but always tidy. Avoid revealing clothes in churches or formal venues. Fine dining and cultural spots often require formal wear. Indian travelers should pack versatile outfits, including one formal set for special occasions.

Why Choose OneVasco?

OneVasco makes visa applications effortless. Our expert team manages the entire process, allowing you to focus on your journey. 

• Enjoy stress-free travel with fast visa approvals.

• Expert and Personalized Support 

• Efficient and Hassle-Free Process 

• Real-Time Tracking and Updates 

• Transparent Communication 

• Trusted by Millions

FAQs

What are the essential things not to do in Austria?

Things not to do in Austria include confusing it with Germany or Australia, skipping formal greetings, being late to appointments, jaywalking, speaking loudly in public, and ignoring recycling rules. Austrians value punctuality, formality, orderliness, and environmental responsibility.

What are the common mistakes to avoid in Austria?

Common mistakes to avoid in Austria include assuming everyone speaks English, using first names without invitation, wearing inappropriate clothing to cultural venues, littering, and expecting shops to be open on Sundays. Learning basic German phrases and respecting local customs prevents these missteps.

What clothing should I avoid wearing in Austria?

What not to wear in Austria includes overly casual or revealing clothing when visiting churches, formal restaurants, or cultural venues like the opera. Austrians generally dress neatly even for casual occasions. Pack versatile, presentable clothing and at least one formal outfit for special experiences.

What behaviors offend Austrians the most?

Things that offend locals in Austria include confusing their country with Germany or Australia, ignoring formal titles, being excessively loud, failing to greet people, and disrespecting environmental rules. Austrians particularly value orderliness, respect for privacy, and social formality.

What should first-time visitors never do in Austria?

Things not to do in Austria for first timers include skipping greetings when entering shops, assuming cultural similarities with Germany, ignoring pedestrian signals, and being too loud in public spaces. First-time visitors should research basic cultural norms before arrival.