Diving into the Austrian way of living…

11 interesting facts to know before coming to AUSTRIA

Austria has some unique cultural quirks that can surprise even those who’ve lived here for decades, like us. We constantly find ourselves learning new things about Austrian habits, despite our 30 years of experience in the country.

Today, we're diving into 11 interesting facts that make Austria stand out. This list will help both visitors and expats who plan to live in Vienna, the world’s most livable city.

Let's start with a fun fact:

1. Friday is the best workday:

Ask any Austrian, and they’ll tell you that Friday is their favorite working day. Many offices wrap up by 2 PM, giving people a head start on their weekend. This doesn't always apply to retail or restaurant workers, but for those in corporate jobs, it’s a beloved tradition. Meetings are rare on Friday afternoon, making it a relaxing end to the workweek. Depending on your role, this could be a pro or con, but most people enjoy the early start to their weekend.

2. Lunch at 11:30

While many countries have lunch around noon or later, in Austria, it’s common for lunch to start as early as 11:30 AM, which is way too early for many other cultures. Exactly because of this reason many companies have a more flexible lunch regulation and you can go for lunch during a specific time period - normally around 11:30 and 2 PM, which gives everybody more freedom to choose what time their want to take their lunch break.

Furthermore in Austria it’s common to have a hearty and heavy lunch, as it’s often the only hearty meal of the day. Dinner in Austria is normally kept very light with either soups or cold platters with bread, spreads and cold cuts.

For us, an Indian and Iranian couple, this required some adjustment. We were used to heavier dinners, so we quickly found out for ourselves that balancing meals was essential. We either opted for a lighter lunch or adjusted dinner to maintain energy levels. It's all about finding what works best for you—whether that means sticking to the Austrian norm or adapting it to suit your lifestyle. Don't be afraid to experiment and see which eating habits help you feel your best.

3. Direct communication:

Austrians tend to be straightforward in their communication. They value honesty and clarity, so don’t be surprised if feedback or opinions are given directly. This might seem blunt if you’re used to more indirect communication styles, but it’s just the Austrian way of being clear and efficient. Over time, you’ll come to appreciate this approach as it will help everybody to get to the point more efficiently. At the same time, they also tend to be very formal, which brings us to No. 4

4. Austrian Formality:

Austrians can be very formal, especially in the way they address people. It’s common to use titles and last names in professional settings until you’re invited to switch to a first-name basis. Do note that this invitation normally needs to be given by the elder one in the conversation or whoever ranks higher in position in a professional setting. This formality extends to social situations as well, where politeness and respect are highly valued. If you’re unsure how to address someone, it’s always the safer option to address them with their last name and use the salutation - So for example: Herr Prof. Schneider or Frau Dr. Schneider.
Over time, you’ll get a feel for when it’s appropriate to be more casual. This aspect of Austrian culture may seem rigid at first, but it’s a sign of respect. Especially people coming from US seem to have a tough time to get used to this cultural switch :D

5. Sunday is a Day of Rest

In Austria, Sundays are considered a day of rest, and most shops and businesses are closed. This tradition is deeply ingrained in Austrian culture, giving people a chance to relax and spend time with their families. While this might seem inconvenient if you’re used to 24/7 availability of services, it’s an opportunity to slow down and enjoy a more peaceful pace of life. Planning ahead for your shopping needs and embracing the quietness of Sunday can help you adjust to this aspect of Austrian living.

6. Love for Winter Sports

Austria is a paradise for winter sports enthusiasts. Skiing, snowboarding, and ice skating are popular activities, especially in the mountain regions. Even if you’re not into winter sports, the culture around it is infectious, and you might find yourself wanting to try it out. The Alps offer some of the best ski resorts in the world, and Austrians take full advantage of the winter season. For expats, joining in on winter activities can be a great way to integrate into local culture and enjoy Austria’s natural beauty. Upcoming Winter we’re planning to take you guys on a snowshoe hiking trip. Make sure to subscribe to the channel so you don’t miss out on this adventure.

7. Love for Nature:

Austrians have a deep connection to nature, and outdoor activities are a big part of life here. From hiking in the Alps to swimming in crystal-clear lakes, Austrians make the most of their stunning natural surroundings. If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, you’ll feel right at home in Austria. Even if you’re not, you might find yourself drawn to the country’s natural beauty and developing a newfound appreciation for outdoor adventures. Many other cultures like to spend their weekends shopping, whereas in Austria weekends are mainly used to either get some rest and relax or get into the woods and enjoy nature. It’s not only cheaper but also the more rewarding option and we have learned to love this cultural aspect.

8. Environmentalism

Austrians are highly environmentally conscious and the country aims to meet 100% of its electricity needs from renewable sources by 2030, significantly outperforming EU guidelines.

Wind energy plays a crucial role in this plan, with over 1,300 wind turbines generating about 14% of Austria's electricity. Driving through Austria, especially in regions like Burgenland or the route from Vienna to Bratislava, you'll witness the impressive wind farms that symbolize Austria's commitment to a sustainable future.

9. Strong Community Bonds:

In Austria, community is important, and people often have strong ties to their local neighborhoods and social circles. Whether it’s participating in local events, volunteering, or simply gathering at a local Heuriger (wine tavern) with friends, Austrians value a sense of belonging. For example it’s particularly impressive to see how many volunteer firemen are operating vs. Paid firemen. For every paid firemen there are almost 10 volunteer firemen operating in Austria, which is truly impressive and a true testament to the community spirit. For expats, getting involved in local events is a great way to build connections. Also in smaller towns you will find many different types of festivals organised by the locals celebrating different occasions and this is the perfect way for expats to integrate and get to know the Austrian culture.

10. Tipping Culture:

Tipping is customary in Austria, but it’s not as high as in some other countries. In restaurants, rounding up the bill or leaving a tip of about 5-10% is standard. For taxi drivers and hotel staff, small tips are also appreciated. While tipping is expected, it’s not obligatory, and you won’t offend anyone if you choose not to tip. Especially if you haven’t received an adequate service quality. If you want get more details on this topic, make sure to watch our dedicated video on the new Tipping Problem in Vienna.

11. Incredible Road Trip Opportunities: With Austria's central location surrounded by countries like Switzerland, Italy, Germany, Slovenia, Czech Republic and even Croatia, it’s an ideal launchpad for road trips. We particularly enjoy starting our journeys from Vienna, thanks to the efficient highway system that connects us seamlessly to major destinations without the hassle of air travel. We can easily make spontaneous stops to visit attractions, enjoy picturesque views, or simply explore interesting places along the way. If you’re living in Austria, be sure to take advantage of these fantastic road trip opportunities and discover the beautiful neighboring countries.

So guys, understanding these aspects of Austrian life not only helps visitors and expats navigate their new environment but also enhances the experience of living in one of the world’s most livable cities. By adapting to local customs and embracing the culture, one can truly immerse themselves in Austrian living  and enjoy all the benefits that come with it. So, whether you’re exploring the Alps, engaging in community activities, or simply adjusting to the unique dining habits, Austria offers a wealth of experiences that make it a fascinating place to call home.

Check out the FULL VIDEO on YouTube.