Great question — Vienna runs on a mix of Austrian traditions and Central European etiquette, and knowing a few local customs will make your stay smoother (and win you goodwill). Here’s a breakdown:
🤝 Greetings & Politeness #
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Greetings matter: Austrians value polite hellos and goodbyes, even in shops.
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Use “Grüß Gott” (formal, literally “God greet you”) or “Hallo”.
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Say “Auf Wiedersehen” when leaving.
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Handshakes: A brief, firm handshake with eye contact is standard in formal or business settings.
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First names vs. titles: Use Herr (Mr.) or Frau (Ms./Mrs.) plus last name in formal contexts until invited to use first names.
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Thank you: “Danke” (thank you), “Bitte” (please/you’re welcome).
🕰️ Quiet Hours #
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Residential respect:
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Official quiet hours (Nachtruhe) are generally 22:00–06:00.
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Sundays and public holidays are especially quiet — most shops close, and DIY noise (drilling, mowing) is frowned upon.
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Apartments & hotels: Keep noise low late at night, especially in shared stairwells or courtyards.
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Public transport: Locals tend to keep a low volume on the U-Bahn, trams, and buses.
♻️ Recycling & Environmental Etiquette #
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Strict recycling rules:
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Yellow bin → plastics, cans, packaging.
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Blue bin → paper & cardboard.
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Brown bin → organic waste.
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Glass → separate containers for white and colored glass (found on many street corners).
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Black bin → general waste.
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Bottles & cans: No national deposit system like Germany, but supermarkets have clear recycling stations.
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Tap water: Always drinkable — no need for bottled water. Carry a refillable bottle.
🍽️ Dining Etiquette #
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Table manners: Keep both hands (not elbows) on the table.
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Tipping: Round up the bill (5–10%). Say “Danke, passt so” (thanks, keep the change).
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Reservations: Common for popular cafés and restaurants.
🚋 Public Behavior #
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Tickets: Always buy and validate before boarding (no turnstiles, but inspectors are frequent).
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Escalators: Stand on the right, walk on the left.
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Cycling lanes: Don’t walk in them — cyclists will ring!
✅ Quick Dos & Don’ts #
✔️ Do greet shopkeepers when entering and leaving.
✔️ Do recycle carefully — bins are well-labeled.
✔️ Do respect Sunday quietness.
❌ Don’t assume everyone will switch to English immediately — start with a German hello.
❌ Don’t be loud on late-night public transport.