Transportation
By AirWith change sweeping away old borders throughout Europe, Austria has become an important airport hub. Since 1989 Austrian Airlines (Tel. 800-843-0002) has offered nonstop service from New York or Chicago to Vienna. Equipped with a relatively new fleet of planes, Austrian Airlines also offers a code-sharing, block-seat arrangement with Delta Airlines, making getting there even more convenient for North American travelers.
Although flight schedules vary, many U.S. carriers require passengers to change planes in London or Frankfurt. International carriers, such as Lüftthansa and British Airways, also offer an extensive Austrian service.
Inside Austria, the national airline provides service throughout the country, Europe, and points beyond. Austrian Air Services (a subsidiary of Austrian Airlines) and Tyrolean Airways (jointly owned by the national carrier) link Austria's cities.
By Train
Comprehensive service, efficient schedules, and competitive fares make train travel the hands-down choice for thousands of Austrians and visitors alike. If you don't want to drive, the trains will take you almost anywhere in Austria, and train schedules take into account bus line, cable car, and even boat tour timetables. Eurail Passes are valid in Austria, and senior citizens can obtain an ID Card for AS260 (about US$26), enabling them to ride at 50 percent reduction in first or second class. Cars and bicycles can be rented through rail agents and returned at a dozen Austrian stations.
By Bus
Bus routes cover some 30,600 kilometers (19,000 miles) of road, linking rail stations with outlying villages. Buses also ferry passengers (plus their luggage and ski equipment) from the valley floor to the loftier ski resorts and alpine hamlets. Discounts for children are substantial. For information, call 0222-1101, but note that if you're placed on hold, the wait can be long.
Taxis
In the cities, taxis are designated by official seals on the taxi meters. Surcharges should be posted inside the vehicle, and supplements are charged for luggage stowed in the trunk. Set charges are the rule in many resort areas.
Driving and Roads
Austria is easily accessible by car. Main roads are hard surfaced, and four-lane autobahns link Salzburg and Vienna, while a six-lane autobahn links Vienna with Ediltz. Mountain driving is the main challenge, with steep gradients (6–16 percent, or even more). Although the impressive Arlberg tunnel, which is nearly 14 kilometers (9 miles) long, makes it easier to reach ski destinations, even if you are an experienced alpine driver you may want to take the train or bus to reach points at higher elevations.
Car Rental
To rent a car, you'll need your passport, a valid driver's license, and, for convenience, a major credit card. But you should know that car rentals are subject to a whopping tax as high as 21.2 percent. In addition, you must figure in airport surcharges—6 percent for any car rented at a municipal airport. When checking rates, make sure you know whether the price includes all applicable taxes. Budget Rent A Car, Avis, and Hertz all operate in Austria.
For an extra US$21 a day, you can purchase a "loss-damage-waiver" that protects you against all financial responsibility for possible damage to your car, even if you are at fault. Drivers who pass up this coverage may be liable for up to the full value of the car in the event of an accident. Some credit cards offer loss-damage waivers as a benefit, which could mean a savings for you. The best advice is to plan your car-rental strategy well in advance.
Boats
Touring Austria by boat is a splendid way to take in the scenery. Cruising the Danube can be accomplished by luxury craft, steamship, or ferry. Enjoy a seven-day tour, a river-boat shuttle, or an evening dinner cruise. Other possibilities include trips on the Rhine, the Drau, or one of Austria's lakes. For luxury cruises on the Danube, contact Europamerica Cruises (Tel. 800-221-4770). For excursions on Lake Constance call 05574-42868. Lake Wolfgang and its sights are linked by the Austrian Federal Railway boat system; they can be contacted at 06138-2231.
Bicycles
Bicycle touring through the cities on miles of designated paths is another great way to see the country. From the beginning of April until November, you can rent bikes and procure passes to take your bike on most trains (the bikes ride in a special car). The cost is less than US$10 a day, with substantial reductions if you're taking the train to your destination. Rented bikes can be returned to almost any train station in Austria.