For the most part, Vienna is a safe city, and most visitors shouldn't encounter problems. There have, however, been some reports of pickpocketing in high season near the two main train stations, so do take care when in those areas. It is never advisable to carry large amounts of cash and other valuables when they can easily be left in the hotel safe. Also, never leave any bags or luggage unattended. For lost objects, visit any Municipal District Office, which handle lost-and-found items in Vienna. For inquiries, you can also telephone the hotline at 4000-8091 Monday-Wednesday 8 am-2:30 pm and Thursday 8 am-5:30 pm.
The center of Vienna is generally considered safe even at night, because—especially on Karntner Strasse, Kohlmarkt or the Graben—there are always people visiting the bars and restaurants. However, it is advisable not to walk through the parks at night. The Gurtel is Vienna's red-light district, where most of the city's strip clubs and prostitutes are found. However, this area is changing, as new trendy cafes and bars push the red-light business into the background. Still, women venturing out there alone might feel uneasy, but it's not really unsafe. And we recommend visiting the Prater area outside of the amusement park only during the day. Be aware that, as in many urban centers, the larger subway stations in Vienna can be hangouts for drug addicts and the homeless.
For police assistance, phone 133.
For more information, contact your country's travel-advisory agency.
Dos & Don'ts
Do spend a few romantic hours or even a night in the Hotel Orient in Tiefer Graben 30, which definitely has a naughty history. Today its great
fin de siecle style makes it a great venue for film and model shootings.
Do use the public toilets on the Graben in the heart of Vienna. You won't find many places like these in the world in authentic art-nouveau style.
Do dress up for the opera and upscale nightlife venues. Note that some restaurants and bars will refuse entry to men who don't wear a tie.
Don't go on an organized heurige tour to Grinzing; you will miss out on the intimate atmosphere that those places have. Do prefer places where the tour buses don't go.
Do remember that the Viennese speak a very distinct dialect from Germans, so even if you speak German, communications still may be difficult. Don't worry; many Germans share the problem.
Don't mind too much if the locals sound unfriendly at times. The Viennese love to grumble a bit at all times, a pastime that is called raunzen.
Don't correct a Viennese when he addresses you as Herr Professor or Frau Doktor. Viennese love to liberally bestow titles on people who just look like they might qualify for one.
