Want to watch? free TV channels in Austria? Discover the best Austrian apps and channels to enjoy movies, soap operas and news without paying anything!
If there's one thing I never give up, no matter where I am in the world, it's watching good TV at the end of the day.
Whether it's a local newspaper, a relaxing soap opera, or even a random cooking show, I've always liked to feel connected to the place I am.
And here in Austria, one of the main questions is: “Is it possible to watch TV for free around here?”
Spoiler: Yes, it is possible! And with plenty of options!
I confess that I thought it was complicated, full of bureaucracy, or that everything was blocked for those who didn't have a subscription.
But, fortunately, I found several very accessible paths – and the best part: 100% free – to watch Austrian channels and enjoy local programming directly from your cell phone or computer.
So, if you are in Austria or are going to visit the country and want to know how to watch free-to-air TV without paying anything, this article is for you.
How it all began: My mission for free entertainment
My life is very busy, trying to balance work, home, family and leisure.
But when I have downtime, all I want to do is lie on the couch and watch something that makes me feel “at home.”
I researched, tested some websites, installed apps, got frustrated with some that only worked with a VPN… until, little by little, I discovered where to watch Free TV in Austria, with quality and practicality.
Where to watch Austrian TV for free
So after much trial and error, I separated the main free channels and apps that work super well. I'll tell you the best ones now:
1. ORF TVthek
If you want to really feel like you're part of Austria, the first name you need to know is ORF.
THE ORF (Österreichischer Rundfunk) is the country's main public broadcaster. And the app ORF TVthek It's simply wonderful. In it, you can watch:
- Live News (ZIB)
- Variety shows
- Local series and films
- Sports coverage
- Austrian documentaries
The platform has an easy interface and, in addition, it works on Android and iOS cell phones, and much of the content is live and on demand.
All for free. I use it all the time, mainly to keep myself updated.
2. ZAPPN TV
If you like zapping (you know that habit of changing channels until you find something good?), ZAPPN TV will win you over!
Because this app is like a pocket TV. It brings together several Austrian free-to-air TV channels, such as:
- Pulse 4
- ATV
- ServusTV
- ProSieben Austria
- Sat.1 Austria
- Cable One Austria
- And many others
Best of all? You don't need to pay anything or create an account. Just download and start watching.
I usually use ZAPPN when I'm on public transport or waiting for something on the street.
Because it works really well with mobile internet and the content is quite varied: from reality shows and movies to funny programs and local series.
3. ServusTV
This is one of my favorites! ServusTV is an independent channel, based in Salzburg, and has a more informative and cultural focus.
On the app or website, you can watch live or choose specific programs on demand. Highlights include:
- Programs about nature and science
- Special reports
- Sporting events
- Interviews with public figures
Plus, the app's look is super clean and pleasant. It even makes you want to binge-watch documentaries. And all without having to put in your credit card, you know?
4. Joyn AT
THE Joyn Austria is another platform that combines live TV channels with on-demand content. It is a perfect option for those who enjoy a varied schedule.
On Joyn you can watch:
- Austrian and German Live Channels
- Series and reality shows
- Free movies
It requires registration, but everything is free. The catalog changes a lot, so there's always something new. I once found a German soap opera dubbed in Austrian that kept me hooked for days. It's addictive!
Why is it worth watching Austrian TV?
For me, watching local TV has become a way to relax and entertain myself in a light and fun way.
In addition to being an economical option – since I don’t spend anything on cable TV – I also learned new expressions, different customs and even discovered that we Austrians LOVE debates about cooking!
So, if you live in Austria, even for a while, it is VERY worth it:
- Save money with free entertainment
- Train the language naturally
- Connect with local culture
- Follow the country's news and events in real time
Free TV, yes sir!
So that's it! If you were looking for ways to watch TV for free in Austria, now you have a complete map in your hands.
Be it by ORF TVthek, ZAPPN, ServusTV or Joyn, you can enjoy a varied, quality program at no cost.
So get involved, explore the channels, discover new programs and enjoy the best of Austrian television without spending a penny!
And tell me in the comments: which of these apps did you already know? Do you have any others to recommend?
Oh, and if this article helped you, share with more people that is here in Austria!
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She’s practically an app detective—she tests, explores, tries out and gives us her honest opinion on each app. A technology addict and a review “expert,” she separates the apps that are pure hype from those that really make a difference. If there’s something new in the tech world, you can bet she’s already tried it before anyone else!
