Weather
August is the pinnacle of summer in Austria. Expect temperatures of around 80°F (27°C) at lower altitudes and a few degrees cooler in the mountains, while larger cities, like Vienna, may be hotter. August is a bit more humid than the preceding summer months, making outdoor activities feel sticky at lower elevations. And though rainfall isn't high in August, thunderstorms can occur. Take shelter and avoid being outdoors if a storm hits—mountainous areas have some of the highest rates of lightning strikes in Europe.
Another feature of Austrian summers is the long days: the sun won't set until after 9 pm, which is ideal for evening walks, parties, and picnics.
Crowds & Costs
August is the peak season for travel to Austria, so expect higher prices and crowds in many parts of the country, from the cities to the mountains and lake areas. Many Austrians and other Europeans take their summer vacations in July and August, as do travelers from North America. Austria doesn't get as busy as some neighboring countries, such as Italy, so you may not find the crowds too problematic.
Book transport and accommodation as far in advance as possible if you're planning to travel to Austria in August. This is even more important if you want to travel to Salzburg. The Salzburger Festspiele in July and August is a major fixture of the international classical music circuit, and the city books up at this time. Further, three major Viennese institutions shutter in July and August: the Boys' Choir, the State Opera, and the Spanish Riding School. Nevertheless, August is a good time to visit Vienna as it's relatively quiet, with locals leaving the city on vacation.
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Where to Go
Austria offers an abundance of entertainment in the summer months, and wherever you travel, you won't be far from a music festival of some sort. One appealing location is Bregenz, which hosts the Bregenz Summer Festival from mid-July to mid-August. The western city is on the shores of pretty Lake Constance, which also borders Germany and Switzerland. A floating stage is set up on Lake Constance for the festival. You can take culinary tours on the lake, go sailing or boating, and swim between concerts.
And while in the west, the city of Innsbruck is an ideal destination if you're part of a group with varied interests (such as a family) or want a good mix of nature and culture. Austria's fifth-largest city has beautiful imperial and modern architecture, a funicular railway that takes you up into the mountains, and plenty of hiking and even mountaineering options nearby. Innsbruck is a handy base for exploring the Austrian countryside, and it's also a summer destination in its own right.
What to Do
The hot temperatures of August make outdoor swimming an appealing pastime in Austria. Although the country lacks a coastline, it has thousands of lakes, rivers, and even lidos (a public open-air swimming pool) to suit. Head to the Salzkammergut lake and alpine region near Salzburg for a refreshing swim, particularly in Lake Hallstatt and Lake Wolfgangsee.
If you're feeling more adventurous, cool off while whitewater rafting in Tyrol. The rivers Inn, Ötztaler Ache, and Isel offer rapids that are suitable for both beginners and more advanced rafters. Alternatively, active travelers may want to hike in the Austrian Alps, and summer is an ideal time to do so, with clearer weather and dry, snow-free trails (watch out for those thunderstorms). The High Tauern National Park (also called the Hohe Tauern) is Austria's largest national park and has a good network of hiking trails. Hike past glaciers, mountain lakes, and waterfalls, and keep an eye out for birds and wildlife.
Events in August
ImPulsTanz Vienna International Dance Festival, Vienna. Five weeks of performances, research projects, and workshops occur from early July to August.
Carinthian Summer, Ossiach. Both traditional and contemporary music events take place in the towns of Ossiach and Villach throughout July and August.
Innsbruck Festival of Early Music, Innsbruck. Another festival running throughout July and August, this one focuses on Baroque music.
Salzburg Summer Festival, Salzburg. One of the biggest classical music and drama events in Austria is held in Mozart's hometown from mid-July until the end of August.
Bregenzer Festspiele, Bregenz. Western Bregenz, on the shores of Lake Constance, hosts this festival of theater, opera, and orchestra concerts from mid to late July until mid to late August.
Grafenegg Music Festival, Vienna. This classical music festival is world-renowned for its open-air acoustics and stunning scenery on castle grounds. It usually starts in mid-August.
More Helpful Information
Austria in July
Austria in September
Best Time of Year to Visit Austria
How Many Days to Spend in Austria