Driving in Austria: A Tourist Guide
Austria, with its breathtaking landscapes, charming towns, and well-preserved history, is a dream destination for travelers. Whether you're cruising through the scenic Alps, visiting historic villages, or heading to world-class vineyards near Vienna, exploring the country by car offers unparalleled freedom. In this "Driving in Austria" tourist
guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to
know about driving a car in Austria and highlight how
Orcar Rental can make your experience seamless
with its convenient services.
- Popular excursion destinations
- Legal regulations
- Book vehicle
Table of contents
Table of contents
What You Need to Know About Driving in Austria
Before you hit the road in Austria, there are a few key details and regulations you should be aware of to ensure a smooth driving experience. Austria is known for its well-maintained roads, but having an understanding of local rules will make your journey even more enjoyable.
Driving License Requirements
Visitors from the EU or EEA can use their domestic driving license in Austria. Non-EU tourists, including those from the US, Canada, and Australia, can also drive with their domestic license, but it’s advisable to carry an International Driving Permit (IDP).
Tolls and the Austrian Vignette
To use Austria’s highways (Autobahnen), you’ll need to display a toll sticker, called a Vignette. This sticker is mandatory and is available for different durations (10 days, 2 months, or a year). However, if you rent a car from Orcar Rental, the Vignette is already included with your vehicle, so you don’t need to worry about purchasing it separately.
Additionally, some alpine roads and tunnels, like the Arlberg Tunnel, may have extra toll fees, so be prepared with cash or a card. But rest assured, with Orcar Rental’s included Vignette, most of your toll costs are already covered.
Speed Limits
The speed limits in Austria are strictly enforced, and you’ll notice numerous speed cameras on austrian Roads:
- Urban areas: maximum speed: 50 km/h (31 mph)
- Rural roads: maximum speed: 100 km/h (62 mph)
- Highways: maximum speed: 130 km/h (80 mph), minimum speed: 60 km/h (38 mph)
Alcohol Limits
Austria has strict drink-driving laws. The legal blood alcohol limit is 0,5‰, and for drivers with less than two years of experience, it’s 0,1‰. Given these strict laws, it’s best to avoid drinking altogether if you’re driving.
Parking
Parking in Austrian cities, particularly in Vienna, can be tricky. Most areas of Vienna are a short-term parking zone (Kurzparkzone) and parking permits are required. Fortunately, when you rent a car from Orcar Rental, you can purchase these parking permits (Parkscheine) directly from us, saving you time and effort. No need to search for kiosks or ticket machines—just pick up your permit with your car, and you’re good to go!
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Top Destinations Near Vienna for Scenic Drives
Renting a car gives you the freedom to explore Austria’s top destinations, many of which are easily accessible from Vienna. Here are some beautiful spots you can visit, all within a short drive of the capital.
The Wachau Valley
One of Austria’s most stunning regions, the Wachau Valley is just an hour’s drive from Vienna. Known for its lush vineyards and historic towns, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is perfect for a day trip. The region is famous for its white wines, especially Grüner Veltliner and Riesling. Be sure to stop at one of the local wineries for a tasting.
The medieval town of Dürnstein, with its hilltop castle ruins, is a must-visit. The valley also offers stunning driving routes along the Danube, where you can take in the beautiful countryside. Renting a car from Orcar Rental means you can explore at your own pace, with GPS navigation included in every vehicle to guide you through this scenic region.
Lake Neusiedl
Less than an hour from Vienna, Lake Neusiedl is a haven for nature lovers, cyclists, and birdwatchers. Known as the “Steppe Lake,” it’s one of the largest in Central Europe and offers activities such as sailing, windsurfing, and hiking.
The lake area, located in Burgenland, is also home to several excellent wineries, known for their robust red wines. Rust, a nearby town, is famed for its wine and is home to Austria’s best storks, which nest atop the town’s historic houses.
Semmering Pass
For a scenic drive through Austria’s famous alpine landscape, head to the Semmering Pass, located about an hour from Vienna. The Semmering region is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers incredible views, winding mountain roads, and the historic Semmering Railway.
In winter, the area is a favorite for skiing, while in summer, it’s ideal for hiking and exploring the natural beauty of the Alps.
Laxenburg Castle
Located just 20 kilometers from Vienna, Laxenburg Castle is a fantastic option for a relaxing day trip. The castle, once a summer residence for the Habsburg family, is surrounded by expansive parkland, perfect for leisurely walks and picnics.
Carnuntum Archaeological Park
For history enthusiasts, a trip to Carnuntum offers a fascinating look into Austria’s Roman past. Just 50 kilometers from Vienna, the archaeological park features reconstructed Roman villas, public baths, and ancient ruins. Spend the day exploring the ruins and learning about the Roman Empire’s influence on Austrian history.
Book Your Car with Orcar Rental Today!
Austria is a country made for road trips, and having a rental car is the best way to experience its beauty and history. Whether you’re visiting for business or leisure, Orcar Rental provides everything you need for a stress-free journey. From cars equipped with Vignette toll stickers to GPS navigation and parking permits for city exploration, we make sure your trip is smooth from start to finish.
Don’t wait—book your car for your next vacation now with Orcar Rental. Our user-friendly online booking system makes it easy to reserve the perfect vehicle for your trip. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway to the Wachau Valley or a week-long tour through the Austrian Alps, Orcar Rental has the right car for you. With transparent pricing, no hidden fees, and top-notch customer service, your Austrian adventure is just a click away!
Book your car for your vacation now