If in most countries transport passages are a way to get from one point to another, then the roads in Austria sometimes seem to be created to surprise and amaze visitors with the beauty of the views. Few country can match the Republic of Austria for its incredible combination of majestic Alpine mountains and picturesque blue lakes. To see and truly appreciate all the beauty of the local nature, it is worth making an independent trip by car. Moreover, you can rent a car here almost everywhere and quite inexpensively.
Road network in Austria
Despite the difficult mountainous terrain, the entire territory of this country is dotted with roads. According to the tradition that has developed throughout Europe, there is both a large network of national and minor roads, as well as high-speed highways, which have to be paid for. All Austrian toll roads can be divided into three categories:
- numerous highways with a speed limit of 130 km / h, for which you need to buy a "pass" for a certain time - the so-called "vignettes";
- certain sections, as well as some tunnels and bridges, for travel on which you have to pay separately, even with a vignette;
- the famous Grossglockner highway, which will be discussed below.
It should be noted that those who travel in a rented Austrian car no longer need to buy a vignette - it is included in the rental price.
As in neighboring Germany, special attention is paid to the quality of Austrian roads. Here, even small rural driveways are distinguished by the highest level of coverage and maximum comfort for travelers. A traveler can always find a well-equipped place to relax with dry closets next to a road of any level.
Mountain roads of Austria
A significant part of the country's territory is covered with mountain ranges of the Alpine. And therefore, many roads here are mountainous with all the ensuing consequences. Firstly, there are many winding serpentines, which require some practice to ride. And secondly, difficult terrain often leads to the destruction of the road surface. Subsidence or rock falls can block the road. In this case, you will have to use bypass routes.
The Großglockner Highway is also worth noting. The road leading to Austria's highest mountain with the corresponding name is a stunning mountain serpentine almost 50 km long, offering incredible panoramic views that will forever remain in the memory of the traveler. This is one of those must-see places, although it is not always possible. The fact is that due to weather conditions, this highway often becomes impassable.
In rural areas and in the foothills, there are usually few cars. But large cities, primarily the famous Vienna and Salzburg, are very popular with tourists, and their population is decent here. Therefore, there is much more transport in these places. Traffic jams often occur.
However, exceptional order reigns everywhere, both on uncrowded roads and on busy city highways. Local drivers are extremely polite and always follow the traffic regulations. Together with an excellent road surface and ease of driving on it, this makes a trip to Austria extremely convenient and comfortable.
