Austria uses the Euro (€) as its official currency. The Euro is strong, stable, and trusted across Europe. If you plan to travel, study, work, or do business in Austria, you must clearly understand how the Austrian currency system works. This guide explains everything in simple English, without confusion.
Official Currency of Austria
Austria’s official currency is the Euro (EUR).
Austria adopted the Euro on 1 January 1999 for electronic transactions and on 1 January 2002 for cash use.
Before the Euro, Austria used the Austrian Schilling (ATS). The Schilling is no longer valid for payments, but the Austrian National Bank still exchanges old Schilling notes in limited cases.
Currency code: EUR
Symbol: €
Subdivision: 1 Euro = 100 cents
Euro Coins and Notes Used in Austria
Austria uses the same Euro notes as other Eurozone countries, but coins have Austrian designs on one side.
Euro Coins
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1 cent
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2 cents
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5 cents
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10 cents
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20 cents
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50 cents
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€1
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€2
Austrian coins show famous buildings, flowers, and historical figures. These coins are valid in all Eurozone countries.
Euro Notes
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€5
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€10
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€20
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€50
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€100
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€200
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€500 (rarely used now)
€500 notes are mostly discontinued in daily use due to security reasons.
Who Controls Currency in Austria?
The Austrian National Bank (OeNB) manages Austria’s currency system.
It works under the European Central Bank (ECB), which controls Euro monetary policy for all Eurozone countries.
The ECB decides:
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Interest rates
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Inflation control
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Money supply
This system keeps the Euro strong and reliable.
Cash vs Digital Payments in Austria
Austria still respects cash culture. Many local shops, bakeries, and cafés prefer cash payments.
However, digital payments are growing fast.
Common payment methods:
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Cash (widely accepted)
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Debit cards (EC card)
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Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard)
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Mobile payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay)
Important truth:
Do not depend only on cards. Always carry some cash in Austria.
Currency Exchange in Austria
You can exchange money at:
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Banks
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Currency exchange offices
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Airports
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Major railway stations
Banks offer better rates than airport exchange counters.
Advice:
Avoid exchanging large amounts at airports. Rates are usually high.
ATMs are easily available across Austria. International debit and credit cards work smoothly.
Cost of Living and Currency Value
Austria is not cheap, but it offers good value for money.
Approximate daily costs (per person):
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Meal at a normal restaurant: €12–€20
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Coffee: €3–€4
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Public transport ticket: €2.40–€2.60
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Hotel (mid-range): €90–€150 per night
The Euro is strong against many Asian currencies. Visitors from India should plan budgets carefully.
Using Indian Rupees in Austria
Indian Rupees (INR) are not accepted in Austria.
You must:
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Convert INR to EUR before travel, or
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Use international debit/credit cards, or
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Withdraw Euros from ATMs in Austria
Best practice:
Carry some Euros from India and use ATMs for additional cash.
Tax and Pricing System
Prices in Austria include VAT (Value Added Tax).
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Standard VAT rate: 20%
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Reduced VAT (food, books, hotels): 10–13%
The price you see is usually the final price. There are no hidden charges.
Tourists can claim VAT refund on shopping above a minimum amount, if they carry goods out of the EU.
Is Austria a Safe Country for Money?
Yes. Austria is one of the safest countries in Europe.
Still, follow basic rules:
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Do not keep all cash in one place
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Use hotel safes
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Be alert in crowded tourist areas
Pickpocketing is rare but possible in busy cities like Vienna.
Important Facts About Austria Currency
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Austria uses the Euro like Germany, France, and Italy
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One currency works across multiple European countries
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Stable economy supports a strong currency
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Easy banking system for foreigners
Austria respects financial discipline. Cash handling, receipts, and pricing are taken seriously.
Final Words
The Euro in Austria is simple, stable, and easy to use. Whether you are a tourist, student, or business visitor, understanding Austria’s currency system helps you avoid mistakes and extra costs.
Plan your money properly. Carry cash. Use banks and ATMs wisely. Respect local payment habits.
That is the correct way to handle money in Austria.
