# data[].attributes.body
Austrian family values are super important. They are usually small families, due to lack of migration. Weekends are mostly devoted for family activities such as outdoor activities. Eating dinner together is the norm. And Sundays are for spending the day with grandparents, or taking a hike with the family.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
You will gain an understanding of a number of key areas including:

Language

Religion and beliefs

Culture & society

Social etiquette and customs

Business protocol and work culture

Gain an Expert Understanding
Once you've read this guide, ensure the success of your Austrian business venture by:
Stereotyping

Remember this is only a very basic level introduction to Austrian culture and the people; it cannot account for the diversity within Austrian society and is not meant in any way to stereotype all Austrian people you may meet!

Facts and Statistics

Location: Landlocked country in Central Europe with nine federated states. Austria is north of Italy and Slovenia bordering Czech Republic 362 km, Germany 784 km, Hungary 366 km, Italy 430 km, Liechtenstein 35 km, Slovakia 91 km, Slovenia 330 km, Switzerland 164 km

Capital: Vienna

Climate: temperate; continental, cloudy; cold winters with frequent rain and some snow in lowlands and snow in mountains; moderate summers with occasional showers

Population: 9.01 million (2020)

Ethnic Make-up: German 88.5%, indigenous minorities 1.5% (includes Croatians, Slovenes, Hungarians, Czechs, Slovaks, Roma), recent immigrant groups 10% (includes Turks, Bosnians, Serbians, Croatians) (2018)

Religions: Roman Catholic 74%, Protestant 5%, Muslim 4%, other 17%

Government: Federal Parliamentary Republic

Language in Austria

German is the official language spoken by 98% of the population as mother tongue.

There are distinct differences between the many regional dialects, and also a wide variation in the 'standard' Hochdeutsch spoken from region to region.

Slovene is an official language in the southern province of Carinthia.

Other minority languages include Croatian (0.5%) and Hungarian (0.1%). All three languages are taught alongside German in some bilingual schools.

Austrian Society & Culture
As with other landlocked countries, the culture of Austria has been influenced greatly by the cultures of surrounding countries. The culture of Austria has also been significantly shaped by its leading position within the historic Austra-Hungarian Empire which, at one time, included Bosnia, the Czech Republic, Croatia, Herzegovina, Italy, Poland, Romania, Slovakia and Slovenia. The empire held considerable power in Europe between 1867 until the time of its dissolution in WWI. A common error is to assume that the Austrian culture mirrors that of Germany. However, Austrian specific historical episodes (such as its annexation by the Third Reich during WWII) have contributed to a very Austrian centric culture. When looking at the culture of Austrian society, it's important to recognise that Austria is also divided into nine 'Bundeslander'. The geographical, political and other regional differences between these areas have nurtured in a degree of cultural diversity within the country. This cultural diversity is evident in differences in dialect, food, customs and architecture.
Austrian Family Values

The family forms the basis of the Austrian social structure.

The family is generally small and, due to lack of migration, generally closely knit within a certain town or village.

Weekends are generally devoted to family activities such as outdoor activities.

Eating dinner together in the evening is very much the norm.

Sundays re usually bookmarked for visiting grandparents for dinner, and/or, enjoying a hike in the country together.

The Austrian Home

Austrians take much pride in their homes, keeping them neat and tidy.

In a formal culture such as theirs, the home is the place where people relax and let their hair down.

Only close friends and relatives are invited into the house, so it is a place where more informal communication may occur.

Neighbourly etiquette also has its rules that must be observed. It is imperative that common areas such as sidewalks, pavements, corridors (in flats), and steps be kept clean at all times by all associated with them.

Conservatism

Austrians are generally conservative people.

They are prudent and moderate in their behaviour.

'Regimentation' and 'compartmentalization' are a useful ways of describing how they organise their lives.

They extend social invitations in advance of the event, and the more formal the occasion the greater the time between the invitation and the event itself, so that they can be certain that their guests do not have a prior engagement.

Appearances Matter

Presentation and dressing well are important to Austrians.

Even when dressed informally, they are neat and conservative; their clothes are never ostentatious.

There is sometimes a strict protocol for dressing appropriately in different situations: formal wear for the theatre or a concert, and semiformal wear for better restaurants.

Some high level events may have a dress code and will turn away patrons who are not dressed properly.

Most Austrian women dress up to go shopping, since they dress elegantly, if conservatively, at all times, especially when they will be public.

Austrian Etiquette & Customs

Etiquette in Austria

Greetings are formal.

A quick, firm handshake is the traditional greeting.

Maintain eye contact during the greeting.

Some Austrian men, particularly those who are older, may kiss the hand of a female.

A male from another country should not kiss an Austrian woman's hand.

Women may also kiss men, but men never kiss other men.

Titles are very important and denote respect. Use a person's title and their surname until invited to use their first name.

When entering a room, shake hands with everyone individually, including children.

Gift Giving Etiquette

In general, Austrians exchange gifts with family and close friends at Christmas (generally Christmas Eve) and birthdays.

Children receive gifts on December 6th, the feast of St. Nicholas

If invited to dinner at an Austrian's house, bring a small gift of consumables such as chocolates.

If giving flowers, always give an odd number as except for 12, even numbers mean bad luck.

Do not give red carnations, lilies, or chrysanthemums.

Gifts should be nicely wrapped.

Gifts are usually opened when received.

Dining Etiquette

If you are invited to an Austrian's house:

Arrive on time. Punctuality is a sign of respect.

Dress conservatively and elegantly.

In some houses you may be asked to remove your shoes, although the custom is not as prevalent as it once was.

Watch your table manners!

Remain standing until invited to sit down. You may be shown to a particular seat.

Table manners are Continental -- the fork is held in the left hand and the knife in the right while eating.

Put your napkin on your lap as soon as you sit down.

Do not begin eating until the hostess says 'mahlzeit' or 'Guten Appetit'.

Cut as much of your food with your fork as possible, since this compliments the cook by saying the food is very tender.

Finish everything on your plate.

Indicate you have finished eating by laying your knife and fork parallel on your plate with the handles facing to the right.

The host gives the first toast. Everyone lifts and clinks glasses, looks the person making the toast in the eye and says, 'Prost!'.

An honoured guest offers a toast of thanks to the host at the end of the meal.

Business Etiquette and Protocol in Austria

Relationships & Communication

First impressions are important and you will be judged on your clothing and demeanour.

Although Austrians prefer third-party introductions, they do not need a personal relationship in order to do business.

They will be interested in any advanced university degrees you might have as well as the amount of time your company has been in business.

Austrians show deference to people in authority, so it is imperative that they understand your level relative to their own.

It is imperative that you exercise good manners in all your business interactions.

There is little joking or small talk in the office as they are serious and focused on accomplishing business objectives/goals.

Communication is formal and follows strict rules of protocol.

Always use the formal word for you 'sie' unless invited to use the informal 'du'. Address people by their academic title and surname.

You may be referred to simply by your surname. This is not a culture that uses first names except with family and close friends.

Austrians are suspicious of hyperbole, promises that sound too good to be true, or displays of emotion.

In many situations, Austrians will be direct to the point of bluntness. This is not an attempt to be rude, it is simply indicative of their desire to move the discussion along.

Expect a great deal of written communication, both to back up decisions and to maintain a record of discussions and outcomes.

Business Meeting Etiquette

Appointments are necessary and should be made 3 to 4 weeks in advance when meeting with private companies.

Do not try to schedule meetings in August, the two weeks surrounding Christmas, or the week before Easter.

Punctuality is taken extremely seriously. If you expect to be delayed, telephone immediately and offer an explanation.

It is extremely rude to cancel a meeting at the last minute and it could ruin your business relationship.

Meetings are formal.

Presentations should be accurate and precise.

Have back-up material and be prepared to defend everything: Austrians are meticulous about details.

Meetings adhere to strict agendas, including starting and ending times. If you have an agenda, it will be followed.

Follow-up with a letter outlining what was agreed, what the next steps are, and who is the responsible party.Business Negotiation

Do not sit until invited and told where to sit. There is a rigid protocol to be followed.

Meetings adhere to strict agendas, including starting and ending times.

A small amount of getting-to- know-you conversation may take place before the business conversation begins.

Austrians are more concerned with long-term relationships than making a quick sale.

Rank and position are important. Since most companies are relatively small, it is often quite easy to meet with the decision- maker.

Business is conducted slowly. You will have to be patient and not appear ruffled by the strict adherence to protocol.

Austrians are very detail- oriented and want to understand every innuendo before coming to agreement.

Avoid confrontational behaviour or high-pressure tactics. It can work against you.

Business dress is conservative and follows most European conventions.

Men should wear dark coloured, conservative business suits with white shirts.

Women should wear either business suits or conservative dresses, complimented with elegant accessories.

What to Wear?

Business cards are exchanged without formal ritual.

Have one side of your card translated into German. Although not a business necessity, it demonstrates an attention to detail.

Include any advanced academic degrees or honours on your business card.

If your company has been in business for a long time, include the founding date on your card as it demonstrates stability.

Business Cards

Useful Blogs about Austria
Please see below examples.
Do you need to cite this page for school or university research?

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Austria - Language, Culture, Customs and Etiquette

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
You will gain an understanding of a number of key areas including: Language Religion and beliefs Culture & society Social etiquette and customs Business protocol and work culture Once you've read this guide, ensure the success of your Austrian business venture by: Remember this is only a very basic level introduction to Austrian culture and the people; it cannot account for the diversity within Austrian society and is not meant in any way to stereotype all Austrian people you may meet!

# data[].attributes.body
5 interesting facts about Austria
- Austria's flag is one of the nations oldest flags.
- The first postcards were used in Austria
- 62% of Austria is covered by the Austrian Alps.
- The sewing machine was invented by a Austrian.
- One quarter of the population of Austria lives in Vienna, Austria.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Here at Leger Holidays we love an Alpine escape, in fact our very first tour was to Austria back in 1983, and it's still one of our top holiday destinations! So what is it that makes you all so interested in Austria? Whether you're researching for your next holiday or simply want to brush up on a few facts, we've compiled a list...

The name Austria derives from a Germanic word 'austro' which means 'east'.

The Austrian flag is one of the oldest national flags in the world.

The sewing machine was invented by Austrian Josef Madersperger.

Approximately one quarter of the population of Austria lives in Vienna.

Vienna has the oldest zoo in the world which was founded in 1752.

Austria is known for its mountain railways and trains such as the Giselabahn.

Ferdinand Porsche, the founder of the German sports car company 'Porsche', was from Austria.

Former Hollywood actor Arnold Schwarzenegger grew up in Austria.

62% of Austria is covered by the Austrian Alps.

The first postcards used were in Austria.

Do you know any more interesting facts about Austria? Or have any stories of your trips to Austria? Please share them in the comments section below.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
10 Interesting Facts about Austria | Leger Holidays

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Here at Leger Holidays we love an Alpine escape, in fact our very first tour was to Austria back in 1983, and it's still one of our top holiday destinations! So what is it that makes you all so interested in Austria?

# data[].attributes.body
Austria's government is a representative democratic republic. Austria is a Federal government is the federal chancellor. Similar to Germany, the Chancellor is the most powerful position in national politics.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Background:
Once the center of power for the large Austro-Hungarian Empire, Austria was reduced to a small republic after its defeat in World War I. Following annexation by Nazi Germany in 1938 and subsequent occupation by the victorious Allies.

Austria's 1955 State Treaty declared the country "permanently neutral" as a condition of Soviet military withdrawal.

Neutrality, once ingrained as part of the Austrian cultural identity, has been called into question since the Soviet collapse of 1991 and Austria's increasingly prominent role in European affairs.

Austria joined the European Union in 1995 and the euro monetary system in 1999.

Official Name:
Republik Österreich
short form: Österreich
int'l long form: Federal Republic of Austria
int'l short form: Austria

ISO Country Code: at, aut
Actual Time: Thu-Oct-22 17:34
Local Time = UTC +1h
Daylight Saving Time (DST) March - October (UTC +2)

Country Calling Code: +43

Capital City:Wien (Vienna) (pop. 1.5 million)

Major Cities:
Bregenz, Graz, Innsbruck, Klagenfurt, Linz, Salzburg.

Government:
Parliamentary democracy.
Constitution: 1920; revised 1929 (reinstated May 1, 1945).

Geography:
Location: Central Europe
Area: 83,871 km² (32,382 sq. mi.)
Terrain: Alpine (64%), northern highlands that form part of the Bohemian Massif (10%), lowlands to the east (26%).

Climate: Continental temperate.

People:
Nationality: Noun and adjective--Austrian(s).
Population: 8.6 million (2016)
GNI per capita PPP: $ 32 962 (year)
Ethnic groups: 81.1% Austrians, 2.7% Germans, 2.2% Turks; other recognized minorities include Hungarians, Czechs, Slovaks, and Roma.
Religions: Roman Catholic 73.6%, Lutheran 4.7%, Muslim 4.2%, other 5.5, no confession 12.0%.
Language: German 92%.
Literacy: 98%.

Economy:
Natural resources: Iron ore, crude oil, natural gas, timber, tungsten, magnesite, lignite, cement.

Agriculture products: Drains, potatoes, sugar beets, wine, fruit; dairy products, cattle, pigs, poultry; lumber.

Industries: Construction, machinery, vehicles and parts, food, chemicals, lumber and wood processing, paper and paperboard, communications equipment, tourism.

Exports - commodities: machinery and equipment, motor vehicles and parts, paper and paperboard, metal goods, chemicals, iron and steel, textiles, foodstuffs.

Exports partners: Germany 29.9%, USA 6.3%, Italy 6.2%, Switzerland 5.7%, Slovakia 4.4% (2016)

Imports - commodities: machinery and equipment, motor vehicles, chemicals, metal goods, oil and oil products; foodstuffs.

Imports partners: Germany 42.5%, Italy 6%, Switzerland 5.6%, Czech Republic 4.4%, Netherlands 4% (2016)

Currency: Euro (EUR)

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Austria - Country Profile - Nations Online Project

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Background: Once the center of power for the large Austro-Hungarian Empire, Austria was reduced to a small republic after its defeat in World War I. Following annexation by Nazi Germany in 1938 and subsequent occupation by the victorious Allies. Austria's 1955 State Treaty declared the country "permanently neutral" as a condition of Soviet military withdrawal.

# data[].attributes.body
There are many tourist attractions in Austria. One of the coolest ones was absolutely destroyed in WW1. The colorful mosaic roof was the main reason why. This attraction shows Austria breathtaking natural beauty on the 117-km hiking trail overlooks the winding river, Danube.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Lake Attersee

The largest lake in Upper Austria, Lake Attersee is a hotspot for water-sports junkies - attracting swimmers, windsurfers and sailors in the summer months.

Ars Electronica Center

Citing itself as "the museum of the future", this museum explores science, art and technology in a range of mediums.

Rogner Bad Blumau

There is nothing better than a day at the spa on an icy day. The thermal spa at Rogner Bad Blumau Hotel, in Styria, is one of the most picturesque.

Lentos Kunstmuseum

Austria's finest museum of modern art, the Lentos Museum - which opened in 2003 - has a strong collection of works, including many European masterpieces.

Wachau

Experience Austria's breathtaking natural beauty on this 177-km (110-mile) hiking trail that overlooks the winding River Danube.

Belvedere Palace

There are many assets to this imperial attraction, including the incredible Botanic Gardens and a delightful view of the city from the top of the hill.

Mumok

Museum, Architectural Landmark

This museum of modern art is located in the cultural hub of the Museum Quarter - a must-see for contemporary art lovers.

Kunsthistorisches Museum

One of the most impressive buildings in the Ringstraße area of Vienna, this museum houses an impressive collection of historical artworks, many from the House of Habsburg.

St Stephen's Cathedral

A magnificent gothic masterpiece, this famous building was almost entirely destroyed during WWII. The colourful mosaic roof is especially impressive.

The Bathing House

Lake Constance borders Germany, Austria and Switzerland. This bathing house, located at the Seehotel, gives fabulous views of this natural wonder.

Bregenzerwald Cheese Road

Farmers' Market, Austrian

Sample the regional speciality, Bergkäse (mountain cheese) in Vorarlberg, which has over 40 varieties of cheese.

Café Central

Vienna is extremely proud of its coffee-house culture, a tradition that dates back to the 16th century. Café Central is one of the most authentic and delightful locations to enjoy a cup.

Zwölferkopf Mountain

Most Austrians head to the hills to ski during the winter break. This area is one of the most incredible.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The largest lake in Upper Austria, Lake Attersee is a hotspot for water-sports junkies - attracting swimmers, windsurfers and sailors in the summer months. Citing itself as "the museum of the future", this museum explores science, art and technology in a range of mediums. There is nothing better than a day at the spa on an icy day.