Learn about Austria
Everything you need to understand Austria and the Austrian people, as well as the culture, customs and history of the country.
Four things foreigners in Austria need to know about the education system
Every country has its own structure for an education system, and it might be one of the most daunting things for immigrants, especially those with children, to navigate. Here are the basics of Austria's education system.
Why is Austria so resistant towards relaxing dual citizenship rules?
Germany's 2024 citizenship reform made it easier for people to hold two nationalities, but Austria has kept its restrictive approach. Why has Austria been so reluctant to follow its neighbour?
The rules and customs of Austrian saunas foreigners need to know
Saunas are a cornerstone of Austrian culture, and the country is full of public places where people can try them relatively cheaply. However, foreigners should be aware of some specific rules both written and unwritten.
EXPLAINED: What are Krampustag and Nikolaustag in Austria?
Each December 6th, children in Austria celebrate St Nikolaus Day. But why does the Santa lookalike come so early, why do some children put their shoes outside on the evening of December 5th, known as Krampustag, and who is Nikolaus's frightening companion?
How can your employment contract end in Austria?
Whether a probationary period is unsuccessful or you're taking time out to start a family, there are very specific terms for ending a work contract in Austria. These are the key ones to know and how they can affect your rights.
What kind of kindergartens can you choose from in Vienna?
Vienna offers a wide range of affordable childcare options. Here’s what international parents need to know about the different types of kindergartens and how they work.
Reader question: What happens in Austria when a holiday falls on a weekend?
Austria has 13 public holidays, but some fall on weekends. Do workers get an extra day off when that happens?
Austrian myths, legends and traditions you should know about
Every country has its own folklore and Austria is no exception. Get ready to impress your Austrian friends with knowledge about the country’s unique and mysterious legends.
QUIZ: Can you pass the Austrian citizenship politics and history test?
In most cases, people applying for Austrian citizenship through the naturalisation process must pass a general social, political and history test. Would you pass?
8 Austrian TV series to watch to improve your (Austrian) German
Ahead of the third and final season of Netflix's German-language biopic on Empress Elizabeth of Austria in November, we've rounded up some other very watchable Austrian TV series that showcase Austrian dialects.
The ten weirdest taboos you must never break in Austria
Blending in with the locals in a new country can be challenging. We will guide you through some Austrian taboos to keep in mind.
Five surprising Austrian citizenship rules you should know about
Getting - and sometimes even keeping - Austrian citizenship is not always so easy to figure out. Here are five interesting facts you might not yet know about becoming Austrian.
Six things you need to know about salaries in Austria
If you're considering working in Austria, there are a few salary rules and conventions that may surprise you. Here's what you need to know about wages before taking a job in the country.
Sturm: Why you should try Austria's traditional autumn drink
Wine harvesting season is underway in Austria, and that means the time window is open to try the sweet and semi-fermented alcoholic drink called Sturm. The Local spoke to a wine expert to find out more about Sturm season.
Are these the 5 best parks in Vienna?
Vienna has many options when it comes to green places to enjoy the spring and summer sun. Here are some of the best parks in the capital.
Train travel in Austria: The best day trips from Vienna
If you want to get out of Vienna for the day, there are many interesting, beautiful, and exciting places to explore just a short train ride away.
How can I find volunteer work in Austria?
Volunteering is an essential part of life in Austria with hundreds of thousands of people carrying out voluntary work on a regular basis. But where can you find opportunities to help?
Five of the best destinations for an autumn break in Austria
Make the most of the autumn season by visiting some of the most beautiful places in Austria.
Why August 15th is a public holiday in Austria
It might feel like most people in Austria are still on their summer holidays, but August 15th is also a nationwide public holiday. In 2026 it falls on a Saturday - here's why the date matters.
Five perfect places in Austria to escape the heat you can reach by train
With Austria reaching increasingly high temperatures, here are some perfect places you can reach by train to cool down.
Hugo, Almdudler and Radler: 5 drinks to try in Austria this summer
It is easier to face the summer heat with a proper cold drink in your hands. Austrians know that well and have created (or made popular) several delicious alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. Here are five you should try.
Heatwave: Nine of the coolest places in Austria
As summer temperatures reach Austria, bringing temperatures well above 30C, there are a few places you can go to help you cool down.
The essential tax dates to remember in Austria in 2026
Austria’s tax system runs on strict timelines and a few recurring dates. These are the key deadlines you will want on your 2026 calendar.