Culture and Language

As a newcomer to Linz, expect to experience a blend of Austrian cultures.
People in Linz are generally friendly, polite and value punctuality. Respect their customs and traditions, such as removing your shoes when entering someone’s home or using formal titles when addressing someone you don’t know well. When attending social events, it is customary to bring a small gift such as flowers or chocolates.
Austrians value work-life balance, so it is important to respect their boundaries outside of working hours. Learn basic German phrases to help you navigate the city and communicate with locals. Joining local groups or clubs is also a great way to meet new people and immerse yourself in the culture.

‍Learning the Language

Learning German can be challenging. To improve your skills, use language exchange programs or hire a tutor. Additionally, you can attend language cafes or events organized by language schools or community centers to practice speaking with native speakers. Some examples include Tandem Linz (tandem-linz.net) and My Language Exchange (mylanguageexchange.com/city/Linz__Austria.asp), both language exchange programs that match people who want to learn each other's languages. Alternatively, Volkshochschule Linz (wissensturm.linz.at) is a community center that offers language courses and language cafes, not to mention community events and activities. Practicing your German will help you become a more confident speaker! One recommended language school in Linz is the Berlitz Language Center (berlitz.at), which offers a variety of private lessons, group classes and online courses. Another excellent option is the Inlingua Language School (inlingua-linz.at), which has been providing language courses for over fifty years and offers a range of language courses, including German for business purposes.