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Many visitors get caught by the frequent ticket inspector checks for failing to validate their ticket by putting it into the slot at one of the blue machines at the entrances to underground stations or on buses or trams. Fines for first-time offenders are as much as €60.

The wheel clamp and tow-away system has not been privatized so is not as enthusiastic as it is in other European capitals, yet the Viennese are fast to do their civic duty and report anyone blocking driveways. If your car is seized or caught in a clamp after a short but illegal stay, the police are the first port of call. Make sure you have the registration and street address to hand.

Vienna increasingly is suffering the same problems of street crime experienced in all major cities. In addition to the usual precautions, the Prater theme park should be avoided in winter when it is deserted. Visitors shouldn’t linger in certain underground stations, such as Karlsplatz and Praterstern/Wien Nord, for longer than it takes to get on and off the train.

Tipping in Austria is a way of showing that you were happy with the service and is not included in the price. Saying thank you (Danke ) when handing over the cash means “keep the change”. A good rule of thumb is to tip 10 per cent of the total bill. A smaller tip is acceptable, but no tip means the service was bad and is seen as a way of complaining.

Viennese have no concept of how to behave in a queue so the “everyone for themselves” rule applies. Particularly annoying are banks and post offices where it’s hit-and-miss whether you join the right queue and don’t get stuck behind someone arguing for the next hour.

The Viennese frown on petty lawbreakers as though they were major criminals. They follow the most little-known rules such as “don’t walk on the grass” even when walking home drunk in the early hours of the morning. Crossing on a red light will risk a fine even if there’s not a car in sight. Older Viennese are frequently seen chastizing others over anything from walking on the grass to making too much noise.

The traditional coffee shops in Vienna are famous not only for their drinks but also for their grumpy and usually slow waiters. This is a part of the city’s charm, but if you are in a hurry pay when the drink or snack turns up - or else expect a long wait.

Don’t expect to be able to use your credit cards as easily as back home. Some restaurants and small shops don’t regard the number of credit cards used worth the investment in the equipment. Check whether you can use your card before running up a large bill.

Sunday is still seen as a holy day in Catholic Austria, which means shops stay closed. Some bakeries have now been granted exemption and there are supermarkets open at the Westbahnhof and shops at larger petrol stations.

Countless forms and official applications need to be filled out before achieving anything, from obtaining a monthly ticket for the underground to filing a complaint with an official body. This creates long waiting times and can be very tiring.