St. Stephen's Day

📣 Traveler notes

Austria is a landlocked, German-speaking Central European country, recognized for its historic cities, villages, and Alpine scenery. It is a major tourist destination that receives a high volume of international visitors despite its relatively small population (approximately 9 million).

• Formal titles (e.g., Prof., Dr.) are highly respected, particularly by older residents.
• Use formal language (Sie) instead of informal (Du) when addressing strangers or elders.
• Private homes typically require guests to remove outer shoes.
• Physical displays of affection in public may draw attention.
• Public smoking is prohibited in most indoor and many outdoor areas.
• Be aware of legal restrictions regarding anti-Nazi symbols and phrases.
• Use formal greetings like 'Grüß Gott' (entering a shop) or 'Auf Wiedersehen' (leaving). Informal greetings include 'Servus.' When toasting, make eye contact and say 'prost.' General etiquette requires avoiding public shouting or anger, always shaking hands and maintaining eye contact when introduced. Remove shoes when entering many homes. Note that displaying anti-Nazi symbols is legally prohibited.