Austria: Explore the Culture & Beauty of Austria

Exploring the Culture of Austria

Throughout history, Austria has always played a special role in the center of Europe: as a bridge-builder, meeting place, and venue for cultural exchange. Austria is a country of diverse possibilities, from historic cities like Vienna to the stunning views of the Alps. Austrian culture is known for its characteristic way of enjoying life (Gemutlichkeit), art, strong coffee, healthy lifestyles, and sports. Popular national pastimes include attending concerts, playing music, and taking walks (Spaziergänge).

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Family Dynamic

In the culture of Austria, a typical person could be described as open-hearted, but cautious in dealing with unfamiliar things. Austrians don’t mind working hard, to satisfy their basic needs and in order to be able to design their surroundings according to their wishes. A lot of time and effort is invested in making a cozy “nest.” Austrians want to be proud of the home they have created for themselves and they like showing it to others. Austrians also value their country’s beautiful landscape and work hard to preserve it.

Most host families live in suburban areas. Mealtime is a family affair and a time for family members to share their day. As both parents often work, shared meals are extremely important. Older children are expected to know how to prepare their own lunch.

Teenage Life in Austria

Austrians love sports and Spaziergänge (taking walks). Soccer and biking are popular, but the country is most famous for winter sports like alpine skiing. Outside of school, students have a good amount of free time (although a big chunk of it is dedicated to homework). Most of this time is dedicated to family and after-school activities. On the weekends, it’s common for teenagers to participate in youth and community activities, or just take off on their own to hang out in local cafés.

Austrian teenagers enjoy visiting each other’s houses, relaxing and chatting in the beautiful local cafes, watching movies and going out to dance clubs. As Mozart’s homeland, music is highly appreciated, and many people play music or attend concerts. Soccer is the favorite sport, although winter sports obviously have an important role.

Official Language

The official language of Austria is High German, although each region also has its own dialect. Other languages spoken are Turkish, Serbian, Slovene, Croatian, and Hungarian.

Communication Styles in Austria

A typical Austrian could be described as open-hearted, but cautious in dealing with unfamiliar things. Although they put a lot of emphasis on punctuality, orderliness, and thoroughness, they also like life to be social, warm-hearted, and lively. Austrians tend to be direct communicators, and don’t usually “beat around the bush.” They prefer speaking honestly and clearly to arrive at a point. At first, they may appear reserved and value modesty in most interactions. In the culture of Austria, maintaining eye contact during conservation is considered polite and respectful. Austrians usually dress well and take pride in their appearance.

The Austrian Diet

In the culture of Austria, people love rich food and drink! Back in the days of the mighty Austro-Hungarian Empire, the Austrian people picked up dishes from places like Italy and Eastern Europe. Popular foods include wiener schnitzel (a breaded veal or pork cutlet), sausages, and goulash (a stew made of meat and vegetables). For dessert, you won’t want to miss Austria’s cakes and pastries, such as the mouth-watering apple strudel or the classic sachertorte (a chocolate cake with jam and icing). The country also has a historic kaffeehaus (coffeehouse) culture, so many an afternoon can be spent lingering for hours in a café and sipping a hot drink!