Austria

Recommended Vaccinations For Austria

For Most Travellers

Hepatitis B Vaccine

There is a low risk of infection with hepatitis B in Austria. Vaccination is recommended for unvaccinated travelers younger than 60 years old.

For Some Travellers

Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) Vaccine

A dose of Measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is recommended for infants aged 6 to 11 months.

Rabies Vaccine

Rabies vaccination is recommended for travellers who may come in contact with bats (i. e. cavers, adventure travellers, researchers, and anyone working with bats).

Tick-Borne Encephalitis Vaccine

There is a risk of Tick-Borne Encephalitis in all areas of this country. The main affected areas are the provinces of Tirol and Oberösterreich. The transmission season varies, however, ticks are most active during early spring to late autumn. A vaccination is recommended.

Recommended Medications For Austria

There are no recommendations for Austria at this time.

Diseases To Be Aware of for Austria

For Most Travellers

Hepatitis B

There is a low risk of infection with hepatitis B for this country.

For Some Travellers

Rabies

Rabies may be present in bats in this country.

Measles

There is a risk of Measles in this country, especially in infants aged 6 to 11 months.

Tuberculosis

Travellers to this country are at risk for tuberculosis if visiting sick friends or family, working in the healthcare field, or having close prolonged contact with the general population.

Hanta Virus

There is a risk of acquiring Hantavirus in this country through the consumption of food and water contaminated by an infected rodent or through rodent bites.

Tick-Borne Encephalitis

There is a risk of Measles in this country, especially in infants aged 6 to 11 months.

Safety & Security in Austria

Personal Safety

Austria ranks as one of the safest countries in Europe for visitors. The 2025 Global Peace Index placed Austria fourth globally, and crime rates remain consistently low. Pickpocketing represents the most common risk, particularly in busy areas like train stations, shopping districts, and Christmas markets in Vienna. Thieves use distraction techniques, so you should keep bags zipped and avoid displaying valuables openly. Violent crime against tourists is extremely uncommon, though caution is advisable in poorly lit areas after dark and avoid city parks late at night. Be wary of individuals claiming to be plainclothes police officers, especially in tourist areas, and always request official identification before handing over documents. ATM fraud occurs occasionally, so shield your PIN and keep cards secure. Public transport remains safe even at night, though standard precautions apply on crowded trams and buses. Austria maintains heightened security awareness following a November 2020 terrorism incident in Vienna that killed four people. In February 2025, a knife attack in Villach killed one person and injured five others, with authorities identifying an Islamic terror motive. Security presence has increased at major landmarks and public spaces. It’s generally illegal to wear any clothing or object in public that covers your face. You could get a fine of up to 150 euros.

Extreme Violence

Austria has experienced isolated incidents of terrorism in recent years. The most significant incident occurred in November 2020, when a gunman killed four people and injured several others in central Vienna before being shot by police. In February 2025, a knife attack in central Villach, Carinthia, killed one person and injured five. Austrian authorities have assessed the current terrorism threat level as high, the second highest on a five-step scale. The Austrian government maintains heightened vigilance, with visible police patrols around public areas, landmarks, and major events. While the threat of terrorism persists, attacks are infrequent, and Austrian security services cooperate closely with international partners to prevent further incidents. The overall crime rate remains low, and violent crime against visitors is rare. Travellers should stay alert in crowded public places and follow the advice of local authorities.

Political Unrest

Demonstrations may occur in Austrian cities with little or no warning. Protests in Vienna are usually held around the Ring Road and on the Mariahilfer Strasse shopping street. While many remain peaceful, they can disrupt traffic and public transport and may turn violent. Travellers should avoid protest areas, follow instructions issued by local authorities, and monitor local media for updates.

Areas To Avoid

Vienna is considered a very safe city. Despite this, petty crime such as pickpocketing and bag-snatching are noted in larger train stations and tourist areas. Hotspots for crime include Vienna’s largest train stations (Hauptbahnhof, Westbahnhof, Meidling and Praterstern), international trains and buses, tourist attractions, including St Stephen’s Cathedral, the Imperial Palace (the Hofburg) and shopping areas. Take care on public transport and in crowded city centres, including main stations. Be particularly careful with your belongings on international trains and when you take your baggage from trains and coaches. When in higher-risk areas, avoid unlit streets and parks after dark, use public transportation or taxis instead of walking alone late at night, and keep valuables secure.