Currency

The official currency in Austria is the Euro (EUR, €). Like in other 'euro zone' countries, the notes come in denominations of €5, €10, €20, €50, €100, €200 and €500. The denominations of coins are: 1, 2, 5, 10, 20 and 50 cents and €1 and €2.

Currently the 'euro zone' consists of the following European countries: Austria, Belgium, Cyprus, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia and Spain. In addition to the above, the euro is officially used in Andorra, Kosovo, Monaco, Montenegro, San Marino and Vatican.

Foreign Currency Exchange

Foreign currency can be exchanged at banks or independent money exchange offices (Wechselstuben) that are located at airports, railway stations and throughout cities. Banks usually offer best rates. Commonly a fee of €2 to €4 per transaction applies for money change.

ATMs

ATMs (called Bankomaten) are widespread in Austria and easily recognizable by marked green and blue stripes. They are usually accessible until midnight, but some may work 24/7. Typical withdrawal limit is €400 with credit and debit cards and regardless of bank they belong to, they don't charge any fee for transaction.

Credit Cards

All major credit cards, like Visa, MasterCard, American Express and Diners Club, are accepted in larger cities, larger shops, restaurants or hotels. A lot of smaller establishments do not accept any credit cards and only accept cash.

Traveler's Checks

Traveler's checks are widely accepted in Austria and can be cashed in banks, exchange offices or major hotels. Checks in US dollars, euros or British punds will give the best exchange rates. Depending on a type of check, its currency or the exchange place, a commission of €5 to €10 per check is typically charged.

Tipping

Tipping in restaurants, bars, cafes and for taxis is common and expected tip is about 10% of the bill. For other services, like hotel porters, cleaning staff or tour guides, one or two euros tip is also customary.

Taxes

The value-added tax (Mehrwertsteuer - MWST) of 20% is included in the price of most goods. Travelers from outside of European Union can claim a tax refund on a single purchase of €75 or more when leaving the EU. In order to do this, a form must be completed by the store at the time of purchase and then submitted to the tax claim counter at the airport or border crossing when leaving the EU. Purchased goods must be taken out of the EU withing three months of the purchase. Some commissions and fees apply so the total refund amount is usually less than 20%.

Current Euro Rates

For other currencies or conversion amounts go to Currency Converter