Inside Austria is our weekly look at some of the news, talking points, and gossip in Austria that you might not have heard about. It’s published each Saturday, and members can receive it directly in their inbox by going to their newsletter preferences or adding their email to the sign-up box in this article.
Where Austrians are heading for their summer holidays
Italy and Croatia remain the top summer destinations for Austrians in 2025, according to the latest ÖAMTC travel monitoring survey. Around 60 percent of respondents said they planned to spend their holidays by the sea, with classic southern spots continuing to dominate.
Italy remains the favourite, but travel expert Yvette Polasek warns that drivers should prepare in advance. Some routes near Milan use a “free flow” toll system where payment must be made electronically — either by registering in advance or paying retroactively within 15 days. Many Italian cities also enforce “ZTL” low-traffic zones, and drivers without the proper permit could face fines of around €100. If your hotel is inside one of these zones, you’ll need to arrange special access ahead of time.
Cyclists taking bikes on rear racks are reminded to attach a visible warning sign, and anyone tempted to pocket sand or shells as souvenirs should be aware that it’s illegal under Italian law.
Croatia came in second in the rankings. Toll roads and strict parking enforcement mean that receipts and paid tickets should be kept, even for up to five years. Truffles and certain seashells are protected and cannot be brought back as souvenirs without permission. Similar to most of Austria, wild camping is banned — campers must stick to designated sites.
For both countries, ÖAMTC recommends using their online route planner to estimate fuel and toll costs before hitting the road.
The buzz around Vienna’s summer cinema season
From grand productions at Rathausplatz to quirky screenings in city parks, Vienna’s open-air cinema scene is back in full swing. Whether you’re a fan of arthouse films or Hollywood blockbusters, there’s something on offer nearly every night of the week.
Rathausplatz kicks things off in July with its annual Film Festival, a mix of opera, concerts and classic performances on a giant screen, all free to watch. VOLXkino, Vienna’s roaming cinema, has already started its summer run, popping up in parks, courtyards and along the Gürtel with cult films and international favourites.
Don’t forget to bring a blanket or camping chair, and maybe a jacket — summer nights can still get chilly. Most venues are free, and some offer snacks and drinks on-site. It’s one of Vienna’s best warm-weather traditions, and a perfect way to unwind after a hot day.
What else?
Here’s a quick round-up of some of this week’s key stories from around Austria:
- Austria’s deadly heat trend
A major national climate report confirmed Austria has already warmed by 3.1C since 1900 – faster than the global average. Scientists warn that unless billions are invested in adaptation and emissions cuts, the country faces rising deaths, economic losses and a climate future it’s not prepared for.
We have to act fast: Austria feels the heat from global warming - Europe’s biggest free festival returns to Vienna
Donauinselfest is back this weekend, with feminist opera, podcast tapings, children’s programming and more than 200 concerts across 16 stages. New this year: a “Democracy Island” with EU games and political discussion.
Donauinselfest 2025: Opera, pop, and democracy on Vienna’s Danube Island - Austria mourns Alfred Brendel
The legendary pianist, known for his humble brilliance and self-taught path, has died aged 94. A towering figure in classical music, Brendel inspired generations with his interpretations of Mozart and Beethoven — and his quiet refusal to follow the rules.
Austria mourns Alfred Brendel, one of the 20th century’s greatest pianists - Why Vienna slipped in the liveability rankings
Vienna is no longer the world’s most liveable city – and not because of housing or healthcare. The reason? Stability. Two foiled terror attacks this year knocked the city down to second place, just behind Copenhagen.
Why Vienna is no longer the world’s most liveable city in 2025 - Austria announces new gun laws after Graz tragedy
The government has unveiled a package of reforms following the Graz school shooting, including stricter gun licensing, support for victims' families, and mandatory psychological services for students at risk.
Austria plans to toughen laws in response to Graz school shooting
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