Saint Stephen's Day

📣 Traveler notes

Austria is a major, landlocked, German-speaking tourist destination in Central Europe, known for both Alpine summer hiking and winter sports. It experiences high rates of international visitation.

• Using formal titles when addressing older or respected individuals is appreciated.
• The distinction between formal (Sie) and informal (Du) address forms is important.
• Austrians generally prefer not to be referred to as 'Germans.'
• Standard European table manners are observed (e.g., knife in the right hand).
• Smoking is generally prohibited in indoor and public venues.
• Business communication tends to be formal and politically careful.
• Use formal greetings (e.g., 'Grüß Gott') and farewells in public. When meeting people, shake hands, maintain eye contact, and use the formal address (Sie) with strangers or elders. It is customary to remove shoes when entering many homes. Eye contact is required when making toasts.