Shops and businesses close
Wander round any Austrian town or city in August and you're sure to find many independent shops and businesses with their shutters down and a sign on the window that says: "Wir sind im Urlaub" (we are on holiday).
That's because typically August is a time for vacationing and relaxing. Businesses – such as hairdressers, bakeries or restaurants – may take two-three weeks off during this time, sometimes more.
The establishments that close tend to be independent or family-run – larger businesses that can cover the summer period with extra staff don't usually shut up shop.
It's no wonder then that neighbourhoods get quiet. For this reason, it's quite a pleasant time to be in the thick of local life in Austria. You can practice your German and have a longer conversation with the barista at the cafe that's open or chat to anyone who's spending August in the city.
READ ALSO: Inside Austria - why the country slows down for summer and how to prepare
Be prepared to wait
Similarly, don't expect to get too much done in August.
August is the month when Austrians tend to take their longest vacations, which means your bureaucratic tasks or everyday activities will take longer.
If you're trying to get a hold of someone for work or for a personal matter, expect an Abwesenheitsnotiz (out of office message) in reply to your email.
Unless the matter is urgent, we suggest you simply wait until September. Austrian society kicks back into action at the end of the summer period.
Yet it's peak tourist season
Austria is full of contradictions, because although August is a quiet month, it's also peak season for tourism.
That means towns like Hallstatt and Salzburg are packed with people (sometimes controversially so). Areas like central Vienna are also busier than ever as tourists flock to popular destinations like Schönbrunn Palace.
Businesses that rake in the cash from tourists will not close during this time. In fact, they may even extend their opening hours for summer. You'll find this is the case with ice cream parlours in particular.
Lakes are packed
Another place where you'll find lots of people is the lakes. Both Austrians and tourists – many of whom arrive from nearby Germany – head to the lakeside beaches to make the most of the late summer period when the water is warmest.
Whether it's a day trip or a staycation, Austrians will get their swimwear on (or indeed go nude) and enjoy water-based activities from the morning 'till night at spots like Lake Achensee and Attersee.
Make like the Austrians are come prepared. That means you pack plenty of sunscreen, coverups, healthy snacks, water and tons of beach activities.
READ ALSO: The Austrian eating habits the world could learn from
Events galore
From festivals to parties via outdoor theatre and films, Austrians love open-air culture in August.
Big events that draw crowds include the Salzburg Festival and the Bregenz Festival. This year there's also the UEFA Super Cup at the Red Bull Arena in Salzburg between Paris Saint-Germain and Aston Villa on August 12th.
In cities, too, there's plenty of action, such as the Gürtel Nightwalk in Vienna, which sees a party atmosphere on the streets.
READ ALSO:
- The best events in each Austrian province in August 2026
- Highlights - the best events in Vienna in August 2026
Heatwaves and unpredictable storms
One thing about summer in Austria is that the weather is intense – and this is only getting worse with climate change.
From unbearable heat (some parts of Austria are set to see nearly 40C this week) to heavy downpours and thunderstorms, you have to adapt to the various extremes.
Keep an eye on Geosphere Austria (and The Local) for the latest weather alerts.
READ ALSO: How long will Austria's extreme heat spell last?
Construction sites are everywhere
While we say nothing gets done in Austria in August, one thing you can expect is plenty of construction sites and roadworks.
Whether it's train route closures or lane shutdowns and diversions, August can be a tricky month for navigating the road and public transport network.
LISTED: Which new Vienna roadworks start this week
Wine season is coming into sight
From late August and early September Austria is the place to be for wine.
Harvests come in and you'll even get to try Sturm, a sweet and semi-fermented alcoholic drink made from the first grapes.
Our tip? Head to a Heuriger – a wine tavern – where local winemakers serve their own wine. These establishments are on the outskirts of eastern cities, including Vienna.
In other parts of Austria, you're more likely to find a similar (but slightly different) wine tavern called a Buschenschank.
READ ALSO: Sturm - why you should try Austria's traditional autumn drink
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