Do I need a visa to go to Vienna from the UK?

No, UK citizens do not need a visa for short tourist, family, or business trips to Vienna (Austria), as you can stay visa-free for up to 90 days within any 180-day period in the Schengen Area, which includes Austria. However, your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure from the EU, issued within the last 10 years, and you might need proof of funds or a return ticket.

Do UK citizens need a visa to visit Vienna?

Guide for British citizens:

If you're a tourist, you will not need a visa for short trips to Austria. You will be able to stay for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. You may need to renew your British passport.

What do I need to enter Vienna?

Quick Facts

1. PASSPORT VALIDITY: Six months validity recommended, at least 3 months validity beyond your planned date of departure from the Schengen area is required.
2. BLANK PASSPORT PAGES: Two pages required for entry stamp.
3. TOURIST VISA REQUIRED: Not required for stays under 90 days within each 180-day period.

What date does ETIAS start for the UK?

ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) is expected to start for UK travelers in late 2026 (Q4), with a transitional period before it becomes mandatory in 2027, allowing for delays and setup, so you won't need it for trips in early 2026, but be prepared to apply via the official travel-europe.europa.eu/etias website for travel from late 2026 onwards. 

When in 2025 will ETIAS start?

When will ETIAS go into effect? ETIAS is scheduled to be introduced in the last quarter of 2026. The exact date will be announced at least six (6) months before the system enters into operation. The Entry/Exit System (explained further) will begin on October 12, 2025.

5 BIG CHANGES for Travel to Europe in 2026 | EU EES, ETIAS, UK ETA & More

How far in advance is ETIAS?

You should apply for an ETIAS authorization well in advance of your trip, ideally before booking your ticket or accommodation. While most applications are processed within minutes, in some cases, additional documents or an interview may be required, which can extend the process by up to 30 days.

Is Vienna visa free?

For Indians, Austria does not allow visa-free access, hence visa application is a must. The Austria visa requirements are clear, and the most common is the short-stay Type C visa. Eligibility: An Indian passport is required, which is valid for at least 3 months beyond your Schengen departure date.

Do you need to carry cash in Vienna?

The euro is the currency of Austria. You can also pay for your purchases without problem by card. The most popular credits are usually accepted in Vienna, although sometimes their use is subject to a minimum purchase amount.

What is free to visit in Vienna?

Best Free Things to Do in Vienna

• Stroll Through the Schönbrunn Palace and Gardens. ...
• Admire the Hofburg Palace. ...
• Visit St. ...
• Walk Through the Belvedere Gardens. ...
• Join a Free Walking Tour. ...
• Explore the Prater Park. ...
• Relax at Donauinsel. ...
• See the City From Kahlenberg Hill.

Do British citizens need a visa for Europe in 2025?

Once approved, the ETIAS visa waiver is linked to the electronic chip inside the traveler's passport. The EU visa waiver will be verified when the passport is scanned at the exterior border. ETIAS will be a mandatory entry requirement for UK nationals once it becomes available in mid-2025.

How do I apply for ETIAS online?

Step-by-Step Process to Apply for ETIAS

1. Step 1: Access the Official ETIAS Website. To begin, visit the official ETIAS portal. ...
2. Step 2: Complete the ETIAS Application Form. ...
3. Step 3: Pay the ETIAS Application Fee. ...
4. Step 4: Submit Your Application and Wait for Processing. ...
5. Step 5: Receive and Use Your ETIAS Authorization.

How much will ETIAS cost?

An ETIAS will cost €20 (£17ish currently), though it'll be free for anyone under the age of 18 and those who are aged 71 and over. It will last for three years. You will be able to travel on multiple trips during those three years with the same ETIAS.

What's the best time to go to Vienna?

The best time to visit Vienna for a balance of good weather and fewer crowds is May, September, or early October, offering mild temperatures and vibrant events like festivals and outdoor activities without peak summer congestion. Summer (June-August) brings warmth and festivals but more tourists and higher prices; winter (Nov-Dec) is magical for Christmas markets but chilly; and spring (April-May) offers blossoms, fewer crowds, and milder days, making it ideal for cultural exploration and avoiding peak tourist season. 

Which countries can British go without a visa?

UK passport holders can travel visa-free to many destinations, including most of Europe (Schengen Area, EU), North America (Canada, Mexico for short stays), parts of Asia (Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, Hong Kong), and South America (Brazil, Argentina, Colombia), plus countries like South Africa, Barbados, and the UAE, but always check specific entry requirements, as rules change and many places offer visa-on-arrival or e-Visa options for stays up to 90 days or more.

What to know before traveling to Austria?

15 things you need to know before going to Austria

• Spend at least a week in Austria. ...
• Skip Vienna's CAT and take the local train instead. ...
• Consider arriving by (night) train. ...
• An ÖBB Vorteilscard will save you lots when planning a train-based trip. ...
• Always buy a ticket for public transportation. ...
• Head to a local bakery.

How much money do I need for 3 days in Vienna?

A typical tourist can expect to spend between €70-180 per day depending on travel style, with budget travelers managing on €70, mid-range travelers spending around €180, and luxury travelers spending upwards of €500 daily.

Can you drink tap water in Vienna?

Tap water is drinkable in Vienna and even comes out of the faucet ice-cool. In many places across the city, drinking fountains stand at the ready to quench the thirst in summer. Simply turn on the faucet and enjoy mountain spring water?

Do British passport holders need a visa for Vienna?

Visa requirements

You can travel without a visa to the Schengen area, which includes Austria, for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. This applies if you travel: as a tourist. to visit family or friends.

When can I apply for ETIAS in 2025?

After the EES becomes operational first in October 2025, ETIAS is expected to follow in the last quarter of 2026. ETIAS is the new travel authorisation requirement for nationals of 59 visa-exempt countries and territories around the world.

What happens if you don't have ETIAS?

Yes. Unless you fall under one of the exceptions, you are required to have a valid ETIAS travel authorisation to enter any of the European countries requiring ETIAS. Travellers without such authorisation will be refused entry at the border.