Wine & drink in Austria
Including Neusiedlersee Wine Region, Salzburg Beer Culture Quarter, and Styria (Steiermark) Wine Region. On the map.
The vibe
Wine and beer here echo centuries of craftsmanship, from crisp whites of the Wachau to robust reds of Burgenland. The best time for wine is late summer and early fall, and beer festivals peak in spring. Tasting rooms are welcoming, yet many locals enjoy their drinks in informal pubs, giving a laid‑back feel.
Neusiedlersee Wine Region, Burgenland
Burgenland
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Located around the shallow Lake Neusiedl, this region is famous for its powerful red wines and world-renowned sweet dessert wines (Trockenbeerenauslese). The warm Pannonian climate creates a unique environment for wine production that attracts enthusiasts from across Europe.
Access. Located about an hour from Vienna; best explored by car or bicycle around the lake perimeter.
Notes. The region is flat and ideal for cycling between wineries.
Salzburg Beer Culture Quarter
Salzburg
Robert Wetzlmayr / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Salzburg is considered the beer capital of Austria, boasting a centuries-old brewing tradition and the highest density of breweries in the country. Visitors explore historic monastery breweries like Augustiner Bräu and local craft spots that define the city's deep-rooted beer identity.
Access. The city is highly walkable; most historic breweries are located within the Old Town and the Mülln district.
Notes. Augustiner Bräu is a must-visit for its traditional beer hall atmosphere.
Styria (Steiermark) Wine Region
Styria
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Often called the 'Tuscany of Austria,' the rolling hills of Southern Styria are celebrated for their aromatic Sauvignon Blanc and Muskateller. The region offers a relaxed tasting vibe with numerous 'Buschenschank' (wine taverns) nestled among the steep, picturesque vineyards.
Access. Best explored by car from Graz; the South Styrian Wine Road (Südsteirische Weinstraße) is the primary route for cellar door hopping.
Notes. The landscape is hilly and best navigated by private vehicle or organized wine tours.
Vienna Heuriger Wine District
Vienna
GuentherZ / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 3.0)
Vienna is the only world capital with significant viticulture within its city limits, centered around the hills of the 19th district. Travelers visit traditional 'Heuriger' (wine taverns) in areas like Grinzing and Neustift am Walde to drink local Gemischter Satz wine directly from the producers.
Access. Easily reached by Vienna's public tram and bus network; many taverns are located within walking distance of the tram termini.
Notes. Check seasonal opening times for individual Heuriger, as many operate on a rotating schedule.
Wachau Valley Wine Region
Lower Austria
Priwo / Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)
A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Wachau Valley is Austria's most prestigious white wine region, famous for its world-class Riesling and Grüner Veltliner. Travelers explore terraced vineyards and historic wine villages along the Danube River, enjoying tastings in centuries-old cellars.
Access. Accessible by train or boat from Vienna to Krems or Melk; the valley is best explored by bicycle or car along the Danube river road.
Notes. Best visited from late spring to early autumn; harvest season in autumn is particularly vibrant.