Banks & Money
Austria has used the Euro (€) since 2002. Travelers from Germany and other Euro countries avoid exchange fees. Swiss must exchange francs for euros — cheapest at exchange offices in border towns or by credit card.
Cash
Austrians love cash — significantly more than Germans. In many traditional inns, mountain huts, farmers' markets, and small shops, cash is the only accepted payment. Even in Vienna, there are places that do not accept cards. Rule: Always have at least 100 € in cash.
ATMs
ATMs (Bankomaten) are widespread — in cities on every corner, in villages usually at the bank or Raiffeisenkasse. For EU citizens with a Euro account: no fees for withdrawals (SEPA). Swiss and non-EU citizens pay 2–5 € per withdrawal, depending on the bank.
Card Payment
Bankomatkarte (debit card/EC card) is the most widely accepted. Visa and Mastercard work in hotels, larger restaurants, and shops. American Express is less commonly accepted. Contactless payment (NFC) is now standard.
Bank Branches
Opening hours: Mon–Fri 8:00–12:30 and 13:30–15:00, Thursdays until 17:30. Closed on weekends.
💡 Tipp
In Alpine Club mountain huts, payment is generally cash only. Toll stations, parking meters in small towns, and farmers' market stands are often cashless. Bring enough cash when you go to the mountains!
