Setting up a home in a new city is one of life's big steps, especially when it's in another country. And if you're relocating to Vienna, the excitement is even greater. A rich cultural heritage, excellent public transport, and plenty of personal and professional opportunities await you there. It's no coincidence that Austria's capital is often ranked as one of the best cities to live in, especially for families. Like any significant challenge, however, it requires planning and preparation, and the Movega Removals team will help you through every stage of the relocation process. Whether you're settling in Vienna for work, joining the family or looking for a fresh start, this guide offers everything you need to know to achieve a seamless transition.
Starting your journey in Vienna
What will you encounter in Vienna at the very beginning? You might be surprised to find excellent coffee shops around every corner—the city is famous for its coffee culture. You'll be impressed by the picturesque parks bringing tranquillity, as well as the vibrant neighbourhoods, each with a different character. The locals are welcoming to newcomers who respect their way of life. Vienna also offers excellent infrastructure. The city boasts a reliable public transport system, excellent healthcare and safe living conditions. For many, the first impressions are a sense of order and a feeling of security.
Understanding Vienna’s Districts
Vienna's housing market offers a wide range of options, from high-end luxury apartments to affordable rentals. Renting is the most common choice for newcomers, with properties listed on platforms such as Willhaben, Immowelt, or through real estate agents. Be prepared to pay a deposit of two to three months' rent and be aware that long-term rentals often require comprehensive documentation, such as proof of income and a valid "Meldezettel" (you'll read about this in the next section). For those interested in buying a property, Vienna offers everything from modern apartments to historic townhouses. Prices vary greatly depending on the area, with the 1st district being the most expensive. Mortgage options are available for expats. It is advisable to consult a local financial advisor to make the process go smoother.
Vienna is divided into 23 districts or "Bezirke", each offering different features and benefits depending on your lifestyle and priorities. Let's dive into a few popular ones:
1st district: Inere Stadt
Known as the historical and cultural centre of Vienna, the 1st district is home to iconic landmarks such as St. Stephen's Cathedral and the Hofburg Palace. It's ideal for those who love the vibrant city life, but housing here comes at a premium price.
2nd District: Leopoldstadt
Leopoldstadt gets its name from Emperor Leopold I and features family-friendly amenities, including the expansive Prater Park. This district combines the positive aspects of modern and traditional living. It is an excellent choice for young families as well as for people seeking career development.
7th District: Neubau
Neubau, which translates as "new building", is known as the creative centre of Vienna. Characterised by boutiques, trendy cafes and art galleries, it is a favourite among young professionals and creative individuals due to its lively atmosphere.
13th District: Hietzing
Hietzing is known for its proximity to Schönbrunn Palace and large green spaces. It is a good choice for families looking for a more relaxed life in a suburb.
10th District: Favoriten
The 10th District is a diverse and budget area. It is popular with students and foreigners. It is undergoing significant development, offering a mix of older buildings and new residential projects.
Registering your address when relocating to Vienna
Navigating the administrative requirements when relocating to Vienna can seem exhausting. That's why it's good to learn what you'll need to save time and stress. One of the most important tasks upon arrival is completing your Meldezettel registration, a mandatory requirement for all residents that establishes your official address in Austria.
With this step-by-step guide, you'll understand how to go about it:
Secure your accommodation
Before you can register, you must have a confirmed place to stay. This can be a rental property, a purchased home or even a temporary residence where the owner allows registration. Make sure that your rental contract specifies all the necessary details for Meldezettel.
Prepare the necessary documents
You will need a valid passport or ID card, your rental contract or proof of residency, a completed Meldezettel form, which you can download from the website of the municipality of Vienna or pick up at the Meldeservice (municipal office).
Find the right office
The Meldeservice office you visit will depend on your area of residence. Do your research beforehand to find the most convenient location and check whether you need to book an appointment.
Submit your registration
Bring your documents to the Meldeservice office and submit them for processing. You will receive an official confirmation of your registration. Keep this document in a safe place as it is needed for tasks such as opening a bank account, signing up for utilities or applying for visas.
Typically, offices are busiest at the beginning and end of the month. Aim for mid-month visits to avoid long waits. Make sure each section is accurately completed to prevent delays. Many staff members speak English, but having a German-speaking friend to accompany you can make the process smoother.
Public transport and cycling in Vienna
Vienna's transport network is one of the most efficient and reliable in Europe, making it easy for newcomers to get around. Whether you prefer public transport, cycling or a combination of the two, Vienna offers well maintained infrastructure and affordable options. Download the WienMobil app for real-time transport updates, route planning and ticket purchasing.
Public transport
The city's public transport system includes trams, buses and the U-Bahn (underground), all operated by Wiener Linien. Tickets are valid for all modes of transport. Here's what else you need to know:
Ticket options
In 2025, a single ticket costs €2.40, while an annual pass is priced at €365, offering unlimited travel throughout the year.
How to buy
Tickets are available at ticket machines, online or via the Wiener Linien app. Don't forget to validate your ticket before boarding.
Accessibility
Most stations and trams are wheelchair and pushchair friendly, with lifts and ramps for easy access.
Cycling
Vienna is a bike-friendly city. It has more than 1,300 km of cycle lanes. Cycling is not only environmentally friendly but also a great way to explore the city's neighbourhoods and green spaces. You can rent bikes through CityBike.
Cultural etiquette when relocating to Vienna
Adjusting to local cultural norms is key to feeling at home in Vienna. Austrians are known for their politeness, respect for order and respect for tradition. Here are some practical tips:
Greet people properly
Austrians usually greet people with a formal "Grüss Gott" or "Hallo". When meeting someone for the first time, a firm handshake with eye contact is customary. In an informal setting you may hear "Servus", a casual greeting often used among friends.
Austrians value punctuality
Lateness is considered disrespectful. Whether it's a social gathering or a business meeting, always aim to arrive on time.
Understand dining etiquette
In restaurants, it is polite to say "Mahlzeit" (enjoy your meal) to those dining with you. Additionally, tips are common but modest. Rounding up the bill or leaving about 10% is enough.
Comply with recycling rules
Vienna has a strict recycling system with colour-coded bins for paper, plastic, glass, metal, and organic waste. Knowing the rules shows respect for local environmental efforts.
Learn basic German
While many Austrians speak English, learning a few basic German phrases will go a long way toward better communication and winning friends. You can start with phrases like "Danke" (thank you) and "Bitte" (welcome).
Be aware of quiet times
Austrians value peace, especially in residential areas. Observe "Ruhezeiten" (quiet hours), usually from 22:00 to 06:00 in the morning, avoiding loud noises.
Tips for job seekers in Vienna
Finding a job in Vienna can be an exciting but difficult process. The city's strong economy is driven by industries such as technology, engineering, pharmaceuticals, tourism and education, offering plenty of opportunities for skilled professionals. To make your job search as effective as possible, here are a few practical approaches:
Networking is key
In Austria, networking often plays a vital role in securing work. Attend events organised by groups such as Internations or Vienna Expats to meet professionals in your field. Joining LinkedIn groups related to your industry can also open doors.
Personalise your CV and cover letter
Austrian employers value attention to detail, so make sure your CV is well organised and tailored to the job you're applying for. Highlight your relevant skills and achievements and include a professional photo, which is common in Austria.
Use job portals
Use online platforms such as StepStone, Karriere.at and LinkedIn to search for vacancies. Many companies also post roles directly on their websites, so it's worth checking.
Healthcare
Austria's healthcare system is recognised as one of the best in the world, offering high-quality care to all residents. As a newcomer to Vienna, understanding how the system works will help you access the care you need. Austria has a universal health care system funded primarily through mandatory social security contributions. If you are employed, a portion of your salary is automatically deducted for health insurance, giving you access to public health services. Public healthcare includes visits to GPs, specialists, hospital stays and even some dental care. Most doctors work within this system, so you'll have many options. A lot of residents opt for additional private insurance to improve their coverage. Private insurance can provide faster access to specialists, private rooms during hospital stays and a wider selection of doctors.
Education
Relocating to Vienna with children? The city offers an excellent education system that caters for a variety of needs, from local state schools to international institutions.
Vienna offers both public and private kindergartens. Public options are often free or cheap, but there may be waiting lists. Enrol your child early to secure a spot. Private kindergartens may offer bilingual programs, including English and German, providing a more relevant educational experience.
Public schools in Vienna are free and provide a high-quality education. However, the main language of instruction is German. For younger children, immersion in the local language can be a great way to integrate into the community. Schools follow Austria's national curriculum, which emphasizes a balanced education, including academic subjects, sports, and the arts.
Vienna offers a range of excellent international schools for families looking for English or multilingual education. These schools typically follow curricula such as the International Baccalaureate (IB), British, or American systems. Popular options include Vienna International School, American International School Vienna, and Danube International School. Keep in mind that tuition fees at international schools can be high, so it's worth including this in your relocation budget.
Moving to Vienna is an opportunity to immerse yourself in a city that combines history, culture, and modern life. Despite the initial challenges, the city's charm will quickly win you over.
At Movega Removals, we understand how difficult it can be to make a home in a new city. Through our experience in international relocations in Europe, we are here to make the process simpler and easier. Contact us through our contact form or through the convenient chat bot on our website to get a quote!
