Planning a trip to Austria and want to experience more than just the sights? We’ll tell you when to visit the top 10 places to see in Austria during the most interesting holidays and festivals. We’ve prepared a guide to Austrian culture and customs, helping you plan your trip based on the authentic experiences you want to enjoy. From spooky parades to elegant balls—Austrian history lives on in its traditions to this day.
While cities like Vienna and Salzburg dazzle visitors with their architecture, you will discover the true soul of Austria in its living traditions. This Alpine country perfectly blends the legacy of the Habsburg monarchy with the folk customs of its mountain valleys. It is this unique mix that creates the unmistakable character of Austrian culture and traditions.
Traditional Austrian Traditions You Shouldn’t Miss
Let’s start with the most frightening—Krampus. This Alpine tradition features parades of demonic creatures wearing hand-carved masks (see the introductory image) who roam the streets on the eve of St. Nicholas Day. The most authentic experience can be found in the Tyrol region, where some masks boast a history of over a century.
A much more elegant side of Austrian tradition is represented by the ball season. From January to March, more than 450 balls take place in Vienna. The most prestigious of these, the Opernball, attracts the global elite to the halls of the State Opera House.
What you absolutely must see in Austria? Spring brings the unique Narcissus Festival in the Ausseerland region. Locals create stunning sculptures and patterns from white flowers. The festival combines traditional crafts with a celebration of the natural beauty of the Salzkammergut.
One of the most fascinating places to see in Austria is undoubtedly the Gosau region, where the traditional Almabtrieb—the return of cattle from alpine pastures—takes place every September. The parade of decorated cows marks the peak of the herding season, and locals celebrate it with folk music, traditional dishes, and craft markets. Detailed information about this event and other interesting places in Austria can be found at https://www.nextleveloftravel.com/austria/a-detailed-10-day-austria-itinerary/.
Seasonal Highlights for Every Traveler
Austria’s festivals reflect the changing seasons, making it a destination worth visiting year-round. In winter, the advent markets are magical, offering handmade crafts, mulled wine, and traditional holiday treats. Spring brings new life with Easter markets and colorful egg displays, especially in Salzburg. Summer shines with open-air concerts and vineyard festivals, while autumn harvests highlight wine tastings and regional culinary events.
What to Keep in Mind at Traditional Events
Attending traditional celebrations requires some preparation. Krampus parades offer an intense experience—the masks are frightening, and participants in the parade may occasionally touch the visitors. Therefore, consider whether they are suitable for small children or more sensitive individuals.
On the other end of the social spectrum are the aforementioned balls, which require appropriate attire. Gentlemen should opt for a tuxedo or tailcoat, while ladies should wear a long evening gown. Don’t forget to book your tickets in advance—the most prestigious balls are often sold out a year ahead.
Tips for Experiencing Austria’s Festivals
- Plan ahead: Research the dates of key events and book accommodations early.
- Dress appropriately: Follow local customs, especially for formal events like balls.
- Engage with locals: Participate in activities like folk dances or traditional craft-making.
- Capture memories: Bring a camera, but respect local rules regarding photography.
- Taste regional foods: Don’t miss specialty dishes tied to specific festivals.
Regional Specifics That May Surprise You
Each region of Austria maintains its own unique identity. Tyrol is famous not only for its Krampus parades but also for its carnival celebrations. Locals wear wooden masks called Schemenlaufen and dance in the streets to chase away winter. This tradition has been passed down from generation to generation since the Middle Ages.
Carinthia, on the other hand, will captivate lovers of folk music. During the Advent season, you can hear the unique four-part singing without musical accompaniment. This style has even been added to the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list.
Austrian culture and traditions are best experienced through dining. In the alpine regions, try almjause—a traditional shepherd’s snack made from homemade cheeses, sausages, and bread. In Vienna, don’t miss a visit to a traditional café for punch cake and strudel made from recipes of old master confectioners. And you can’t skip the obligatory Sacher Torte—no place makes it better than the original in Vienna.
Hidden Gems of Austrian Traditions
Austria’s famous festivals often take the spotlight, but it’s the lesser-known traditions that truly reveal its cultural soul. One captivating example is the Glöcklerlauf in Upper Austria. Held every January, this event feels almost magical. Imagine groups of locals parading through the streets at night, wearing enormous, intricately crafted hats that glow with light.
The hats, shaped like stars, houses, or even geometric patterns, are handmade works of art. The parade’s purpose is as symbolic as it is visually stunning—it’s meant to chase away the darkness of winter and welcome the hope of longer, brighter days. Experiencing it feels like stepping into a living fairytale.
Another treasure lies in Burgenland, where the Martiniloben festival puts wine at the center of the celebration. Held in early November, this is more than just a wine tasting; it’s an invitation into the heart of Austria’s wine culture. Winemakers open their cellars, offering visitors a chance to sample their latest vintages while sharing stories about their craft. Picture yourself wandering through candlelit cellars, sipping on locally produced reds and whites, while hearing about the passion and patience behind each bottle. It’s not just about the wine—it’s about connection, history, and a genuine love for tradition.
Both events, while smaller in scale compared to Austria’s grander festivities, offer something deeply personal and authentic. These hidden gems let you step away from the crowds and experience Austria in a way that feels intimate and unique, making them unforgettable highlights of any trip.
Experiences for the Whole Year
Whether you’re planning a trip to Austria in any season, you’ll almost always encounter a traditional celebration. In the summer, for example, you can experience the Solstice Fires, where the people of Tyrol light fires on mountain ridges in the shapes of crosses, hearts, or the current year’s date. This ancient custom creates a stunning light show visible for miles at night. While what you can see in Austria in 3 days often limits you to the main landmarks, we recommend planning your visit around traditional events—the experiences will be much more authentic.