Starting November 1, tourists in Carinthia can access free public transport across the state. Following Salzburg's lead, Carinthia is the second federal state to launch a nationwide guest card, covering buses, trains, and micro-public transport services.
Visitors receive a digital ticket code at check-in via a mobile app. The initiative is funded by a new residence tax of 4.50 euros per night, replacing the 2.70 euro local tax. Tourism Referent Sebastian Schuschnig noted 90 cents per night funds mobility.
The guest card covers nearly the entire network, including S-Bahn travel to Lienz. While special trains and bicycle transport are excluded, the reform establishes a new infrastructure fund supported by an expected nine million taxable overnight stays annually.