Understanding dress codes in the German and Austrian spa towns

Codes vary by room, not by property

A single property in the German and Austrian spa towns may operate three different standards: relaxed on the main floor, smart casual in the restaurants, and formal in a private room or a signature dining space. Assuming one code covers the building is the most common mistake visitors make.

Where a venue publishes a code, it is enforced at the entrance. Staff have no discretion, and a return trip to change is the usual outcome.

What smart casual actually means here

The standard tightens after around six in the evening at most properties, and considerably further on weekends. If you are unsure, dress to the later standard.

Across most of the German and Austrian spa towns, smart casual means a collared shirt or equivalent, full-length trousers or a dress, and closed shoes. It excludes beachwear, sports kit, flip-flops, and in several venues, shorts of any kind after early evening.

• A collared shirt or an equivalent top; sleeveless is refused in several rooms.
• Full-length trousers, skirt, or dress rather than shorts, especially after early evening.
• Closed shoes; sandals and flip-flops are the most frequent cause of refused entry.
• No sportswear, beachwear, or branded athletic kit in restaurants or private rooms.

Admission and identification

Photo identification is required for admission to gaming areas throughout the German and Austrian spa towns, regardless of apparent age, and a photocopy is not accepted. Carry a passport or a national identity document rather than a driving licence where you are travelling internationally.

Members' clubs, which are common in some of the markets we cover, may require registration in advance or a short waiting period before first admission. Check this before assuming you can walk in.

Floor etiquette

Table seats are for players. Standing behind a seated companion is normal; occupying a seat without playing is not, and at busy periods you will be asked to move.

Photography is prohibited on gaming floors almost everywhere in the German and Austrian spa towns, and staff enforce it consistently. Mobile telephones are generally tolerated in walkways but not at tables.