Today’s Best Car Rental Deals in Austria
Unlock Alpine Adventures with a Rental Car in Austria
Free Cancellation
Change of plans? Rent with confidence, cancel anytime. No fee. Final Rentals does not believe in charging any cancellation fee.
No Hidden Charges
Pay full rental amount at the counter. No need to pay online. We work on clear pricing policy, what you see is what you pay.
Fair Fuel Policy
You can return the car at the same fuel level as it was handed over to you and there will be no charges at all.
What You Need to Know Before Hiring a Car in Austria
Flexible Travel
Having a rental car in Austria gives you the freedom to go beyond tourist trails. From the alpine routes of Tyrol to the vineyard valleys of Styria, a self-drive journey allows you to explore Austria’s rich heritage and stunning natural landscapes at your own pace. Whether you're skiing in Innsbruck or driving along the Danube, having a rental car makes every experience more flexible and memorable.
Documents for Tourists
To rent a car in Austria, international travelers must present a valid passport and a full driver’s license from their home country. If your license is not in Latin script (e.g., Cyrillic, Chinese, Arabic), an International Driving Permit (IDP) is required. Drivers must usually be 21 years or older and have held a license for at least 12 months, though age minimums may be higher for certain car classes.
Documents for Residents
Austrian residents renting vehicles need a valid Austrian driving license, an official government ID, and a local address. Proof of address may be requested when booking, especially for premium vehicles or long-term rentals.
Credit Card Requirement
Most rental agencies in Austria require a credit card in the main driver's name to hold a security deposit. This is standard for processing payments, insurance holds, or damages. While some providers accept debit cards, credit cards offer a smoother experience, especially at airport rental counters.
Driving Regulations
In Austria, you drive on the right-hand side. Seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers. Speed limits are: 130 km/h on motorways 100 km/h on rural roads 50 km/h in urban areas Radar and speed cameras are widespread. Always carry your license, IDP (if applicable), insurance papers, and vehicle documents while driving.
Child Seat Regulations
Children under 14 years old or under 135 cm in height must be seated in appropriate child safety or booster seats. It's illegal for children to travel in the front seat without proper restraint systems. Most rental companies offer child seats and boosters upon request for an extra fee.
Traffic Rules
Austria has a strict blood alcohol limit of 0.05%, and for new drivers (less than 2 years), it's 0.01%. Using a handheld phone while driving is prohibited unless you’re using a hands-free system. Parking in city centers may require a “parking disc” or a ticket from machines. Be aware of priority rules at intersections, and always yield to the right unless otherwise indicated.
Toll Roads and Fuel Costs
Austria uses a vignette (toll sticker) system for highways. Ensure your rental includes a valid vignette (usually placed on the windshield) if you plan to drive on motorways. If not, you’ll need to buy one at a gas station or border crossing. Fuel prices are moderate, and petrol stations are abundant—even in mountainous areas. Both credit cards and cash are widely accepted.
Navigation and Parking
Apps like Google Maps and Waze work well in Austria, though signal loss may occur in alpine tunnels. Parking is regulated, especially in cities like Vienna, Salzburg, and Graz. Look for color-coded zones (blue for short-term parking). Parking garages and Park & Ride lots are good alternatives when exploring on foot.
Driving Conditions and Insurance
Austria’s road infrastructure is excellent, with well-paved highways, rural roads, and scenic alpine routes. However, during winter months, snow chains or winter tires are mandatory in some regions. Consider adding CDW (Collision Damage Waiver) and theft protection for peace of mind. Always double-check your policy for deductibles and roadside assistance coverage.
Rent a Car at Vienna International Airport
Best Time to Rent a Car in Austria
Low Season Rentals Provide the Best Value
November to March (excluding holidays) is considered the low season, especially outside ski resorts. Rental prices are generally lower, and tourist crowds are minimal—perfect for exploring cities, thermal spas, and Christmas markets.
Shoulder Seasons for Ideal Road Trips
April to June and September to mid-October bring mild weather, blooming countryside, and fewer crowds. These months are ideal for scenic drives through wine regions, castles, and lake towns like Hallstatt or Zell am See.
Summer Is Popular but Pricier
From late June through August, Austria welcomes peak tourism. Expect higher prices for both accommodation and car rentals. Major destinations like Vienna, Salzkammergut, and alpine villages get crowded. Booking early is essential to secure availability and better rates.
