austria trip in 10 days

• The Perfect 10 Day Austria Road Trip Itinerary

With its outstanding natural beauty and sophisticated cities that fuse old with new, Austria is one of the most enchanting countries to visit in Europe. As there are so many pristine lakes, rivers, and mountain ranges to explore in between the urban areas, the best way to experience the place has to be with an epic Austrian road trip.

Renting a car and hitting the road in Austria gives you so much freedom to pick and choose which places you get to visit. No matter where you drive, you will find yourself surrounded by incredible landscapes the whole time, without even needing to leave the car.

If you’re not sure where to begin, then my 10 day Austria road trip itinerary is here to help! This guide contains all the practical information you need as well as the most impressive destinations that let you experience a bit of everything that Austria is known for.

* Disclosure: This post contains a few affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through my link. *

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Table of Contents

Useful Info for Your Austria Road Trip

How to get to austria .

This Austria road trip itinerary is designed to start in either Vienna or Innsbruck. My guide starts in the east, in Vienna, and concludes in the west, at Innsbruck. However, you can flip it and do it in reverse if that suits you better!

Both Vienna and Innsbruck are served by an international airport. As the Austrian capital and largest city, Vienna International Airport (Flughafen Wien) connects nonstop to the vast majority of European cities. You can also find direct flights from the US, Canada, the Middle East, and some Asian cities.

As a smaller airport, there are fewer direct flights to Innsbruck Airport (Flughafen Innsbruck). However, you can fly nonstop from other Austrian airports as well as from a select number of European destinations including Germany, the United Kingdom, and the Netherlands.

Best time to visit Austria 

Austria experiences the four distinct seasons as per the Northern Hemisphere and other Central European nations, so the best time to visit Austria really depends on the type of experience you are after. The climate and temperatures differ depending on the altitude, so during the course of this road trip in Austria, you should expect the weather to fluctuate somewhat. 

The peak travel season is the summer months of July and August when the temperatures are at their hottest, reaching typically 27-29°C (80-84°F) or sometimes even higher. Meanwhile, winter brings snowfall to the mountains and sees the ski resorts open up for the season.

In terms of the best time to visit Austria as part of a road trip, the shoulder seasons of late spring and autumn are the most pleasant overall. Temperatures are at their most comfortable, you will have less competition for accommodation and parking space, and tours and hotels will be a fraction cheaper. And to be honest, when you’re up in the mountains you will likely still see dustings of snow on the peaks.

Car rental in Austria

No matter which airport you fly to (Vienna or Innsbruck), there are car rental agencies located at both of the airports and in the cities themselves.

I recommend booking your rental well in advance to get the best deals. Prices can be pretty inflated during the summer months so the earlier you book, the better deals you can snag.

Driving tips for Austria 

Driving in Austria is a doddle, providing that you follow the rules and understand the local road rules. Naturally, you must wear a seatbelt at all times, not drive while under the influence, or when using your mobile phone. Here are a few more driving tips for your Austria road trip itinerary: 

• During the summer season and warmer months, Austrian roads are a joy to drive. They are paved and well maintained. However, between December and March, snow and ice is likely at higher altitudes so you will need to ensure that your rental is fitted with winter tires and that you have snow chains in the boot. 
• To drive in Austria, you must possess a full driving license from your home country as well as an International Driver’s Permit (IDP). You will need to arrange this documentation prior to arriving in the country to start your Austria road trip. If your driving license was issued by one of the member states of the European Economic Area, you will not need the IDP as your license is valid in Austria.
• Traffic rules and regulations are comparable to other European countries. In general, the speed limit is 100 km/h (62 mph) on Bundesstraße (freeways) and S Roads (expressways) and 130 km/h (81 mph) on Autobahn (highways). When driving through residential areas and inner cities, the speed limit is usually 50 km/h (31 mph), but you should stay alert for signs.
• In order to drive on the Austrian Autobahn and S Roads, your rental must display a vignette toll sticker. If your rental car doesn’t have one, you must purchase a vignette before hitting the highways. For this Austria road trip itinerary, purchasing a 10-day vignette is the best option which costs €9.90. You can buy the vignette at any of the petrol stations and then stick it to your windshield.
• Driving with your headlights on is optional during daylight hours and compulsory at night in Austria. 
• ÖAMTC and ARBÖ are the two major breakdown assistance services in Austria and both operate 24/7. The numbers are 120 and 123, respectively. As a non-member, you will be liable to pay a fee if you use this service. 
• This itinerary for Austria includes a generous amount of hiking so it’s really important to have some sturdy hiking boots in your rental that you can throw on whenever you reach the trails. You should also have a significant stash of water ready for the hikes. 

Overview of Your 10 Day Austria Road Trip Itinerary

Breakdown of your 10 days in austria.

This is your itinerary at a glance, with details about where you will need to book accommodation for each of the 10 nights. Remember, you can do the route in reverse if it suits your travel plans better.

• Day 1-2: Two full days in Vienna (overnight in Vienna)
• Day 3: Grüner See, Admont Abbey Library, arriving in Hallstatt (overnight in Hallstatt)
• Day 4: Full day in Hallstatt (overnight in Hallstatt)
• Day 5: 5 Fingers Viewing Platform (Dachstein), Gosauseen, arriving in Salzburg (overnight in Salzburg)
• Day 6: Full day in Salzburg (overnight in Salzburg)
• Day 7: Gollinger Wasserfall, Bluntauseen, Hohenwerfen Castle, arriving in Zell am See (overnight in Zell am See)
• Day 8: Stausee Mooserboden, Sigmund-Thun Klamm, Alpine Coaster Maisiflitzer Kaprun, Mitterberghof Jausenstation (overnight in Zell am See)
• Day 9: Krimml Waterfalls, arriving in Mayrhofen (overnight in Mayrhofen)
• Day 10: Olpererhütte, Innsbruck (overnight in Innsbruck)

Map for your Austria road trip

Below you can find a customized map that includes all the locations you’re going to visit on this Austria road trip itinerary. I marked the different parts of the road trip with different colors so you can easily see which places you’re going to visit each day.

If you open up this post on your phone and you click on the bracket in the upper right corner of the map, it will automatically save this map to your Google Maps app so you can always have it with you. Super convenient, right?

Day 1-2: Vienna

Number one on your Austria itinerary is Vienna, the capital and largest city in the country, located in the northeast. The oldest part of the city and its most central district is the Innere Stadt, which is contained by a ring road.

Within this neighborhood, you will find the majority of the key attractions and majestic architecture, including Baroque palaces and gardens, museums, and concert halls. No wonder that Vienna is considered one of the most beautiful cities in Europe !

Vienna is synonymous with classical music and was the home of musical masters including Mozart and Beethoven so you will find numerous references and recitals in town.

Two days in Vienna is plenty of time to explore the major landmarks of this elegant city. You will not need a car for these two days as it’s easier to get around the city via public transport and walking so you can pick up your rental car after your two days in Vienna are over.

Where to stay in Vienna

If this is your first time visiting Vienna then I recommend staying in the Innere Stadt. Hotels are more expensive but deals can always be found. Alternatively, you can choose accommodation in one of the outlying neighborhoods and connect to the Old Town easily by metro.

Trendy Wieden has affordable accommodation which is convenient for seeing the sights featured on this road trip in Austria. Landstrasse, to the east of the Innere Stadt, is another alternative for budget hotels. As you will not pick up your rental until the third day, you don’t need to worry about finding a hotel with parking.

Below you can find my suggestions for the best places to stay in Vienna for 2 nights.

LUXURY – Palais Hansen Kempinski Vienna

Built as a hotel for the World Exhibition in Vienna in 1873, the luxurious Palais Hansen Kempinski Vienna can be found right on the famous Ringstraße boulevard in the heart of the city. The hotel features 2 restaurants, a bar, and an exclusive spa and fitness center.

MID-RANGE – Hilton Vienna Plaza

Located on the historic Ringstraße in the Innere Stand, the city center of Vienna, Hilton Vienna Plaza combines modern and Art Déco design elements. The elegantly decorated rooms come with marble bathrooms and offer amazing views of the city from their large windows.

BUDGET – K+K Palais Hotel

Centrally located in the quiet part of Vienna’s city center, K+K Palais Hotel is a total steal. Boasting fully air-conditioned rooms and state-of-the-art amenities, the property is in close proximity to many major sights, such as the St. Stephen’s Cathedral.

Best things to do in Vienna 

Explore the innere stadt.

Vienna’s old town is brimming with museums, monuments, and landmarks that you can explore on foot. Slip into your sneakers and spend a day touring the key sights.

Look out for the ornate Anker Clock, the commanding Rathaus (city hall), the manicured Volksgarten, and the Wiener Minoritenkirche which features a mosaic of Da Vinci’s Last Supper.

Hundertwasserhaus

Perhaps the most unusual building you’ll see during your Austria road trip, the Hundertwasserhaus was conceived by the artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser and architect Joseph Krawina in 1985.

The concept was to create a space in harmony with nature and highlights include the grass on the roof and the trees that grow freely through the floors. Thanks to its vibrant colors, it’s definitely one of the best Vienna Instagram spots !

Classical concert

In a city famed for its lineage of classic music, you might want to book tickets to catch a show for yourself. There are various concert halls scattered throughout the Innere Stadt.

Once you’ve confirmed the dates for your itinerary for Austria, check out what’s on at the Wiener Musikverein, Wiener Konzerthaus, and the Vienna State Opera House . The main season runs from September to June.

Schönbrunn Palace

This 18th-century palace and gardens are located southwest of the Innere Stadt. Once the summer residence of the Habsburg royal family, this colossal complex is now the star attraction in Vienna. Queues are always long so I recommend booking a skip-the-line tour of Schönbrunn Palace to save time.

Hofburg Palace

Another palace for your list, this one was built during the 13th century and has been restored and expanded in the following centuries. Originally the winter home of the Austro-Hungarian Empire leaders, the property is now the office of the Austrian president.

Vergnügungspark

One of the most fun things to do in Vienna at night is to visit the Prater amusement park. The star attraction is the giant Ferris wheel which has been rotating since 1897 but there are plenty of other rides to satisfy all thrill-seekers.

Where to eat in Vienna

• Honu Tiki Bowls : Colorful cuisine in an equally colorful setting! You can select one of the signature bowls or customize your own. There are plenty of options to satisfy vegans, carnivores and seafood lovers.
• Das LOFT : Dine high above the rooftops of Vienna at this upscale restaurant that serves contemporary Viennese dishes, quality wines, and delectable cocktails. They’re also open for breakfast.
• Café Anzengruber : Located in the foodie haven that is Wieden, the 4th District, this is one of the best places for authentic schnitzel, goulash, and other traditional Austrian plates you must try during your 10 days in Austria.
• Restaurant Ofenloch : Another option for classic Austrian food this time in the heart of the Innere Stadt. This historic venue has an irresistible ambiance and an expansive menu. 

Day 3: Vienna to Hallstatt

Pick up your rental and ready your playlist, your Austria road trip officially begins today as you journey into the mountainous state of Styria! The total drive time to today’s final destination, Hallstatt, is around 5 hours and the distance is 340 km (211 miles).

But you will stop along the way before reaching your hotel in Hallstatt so allow extra time to visit the destinations listed below.

Once in Hallstatt, you will need to book 2 nights of accommodation. Refer to the next day if you want to learn about my recommendations for where to stay in Hallstatt!

Grüner See

Driving time: 2 hours and 15 minutes (175 km/110 miles) from Vienna to Grüner See

Leaving the city behind, Grüner See in an unbelievably beautiful pool of water formed by the snowmelt of the surrounding karst mountains. Translating into ‘Green Lake’, the water is an ethereal emerald hue.

There is a huge parking lot at the entrance of the lake but since it’s a popular place among locals and tourists alike, it’s better to go early to secure a parking spot. Parking is €6 for a full day (there is no hourly parking option) and you can only pay with cash.

It takes around 20 minutes to reach the lake from the parking lot on a gravel road, the trail is completely flat and very easy. You can walk around the lake in its entirety in around 30 minutes to appreciate the viewpoints and take photos.

There is a small restaurant next to the lake if you need lunch or you can prepare a picnic to enjoy by the water. Note that swimming is not permitted in the lake due to conservation efforts.

Admont Abbey Library

Driving time: 1 hour and 40 minutes (87 km/54 miles) from Grüner See to Admont Abbey Library

The next scenic stop on today’s journey is a sensational library situated inside Admont Abbey. Stepping into the library feels as if you would enter the library from the Beauty and the Beast !

The archive represents the largest monastic library in the world and the works span architecture, frescoes, sculptures, manuscripts, and printed tomes. Constructed by the architect Josef Hueber, the library hall was completed in 1776.

It registers 70 meters (230 feet) in length, 13 meters (43 feet) in height, and features seven ceiling frescoes that represent the Enlightenment. These were composed by the painter Bartolomeo Altomonte who was 80 years old at the time!

70,000 volumes are stored in the hall while the abbey in total contains around 200,000 books and manuscripts, with some dating as far back as the 8th century AD.

There’s a huge parking lot right next to the Abbey where you can leave your car while you explore the inside.

A ticket to Admont Abbey Library costs €16.50 and it also includes entrance to a bunch of museums such as the Museum of Fine Arts or the Natural History Museum. I’m not a museum kind of girl myself but I really enjoyed wandering around these museums so definitely give them a try!

Depending on how many museums you want to visit, you can easily spend 2-3 hours inside. If you happen to visit at 11 am or 2 pm, you can also take part in a guided tour of the library which lasts for 40 minutes (it’s already included in your ticket price).

Please note that the library only operates on a limited opening time. As of March 2023, according to the official website it’s closed and will be open from April to May between 10.30 am to 3.30 pm and it’s completely closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. From June to October it will be open every day from 10 am to 5 pm. In November you can count on the same opening hours as in April and May. From the second half of December the library is going to be closed.

The official website doesn’t get updated that much so if you want to go for sure, it’s worth calling them in advance about the current opening hours. We almost missed our chance to visit this masterpiece because of the incorrect opening hours on the website so if you want to avoid the struggle, make a call!

Outside of the library, it’s also worth taking a stroll around the beautiful gardens and popping into the Abbey itself (it’s free to visit). Admont itself is situated on the banks of the Enns River right in the middle of the Ennstal Alps so if you have more time, it’s also worth taking a wander around this picturesque town to savor the incredible scenery. 

Arriving in Hallstatt

Driving time: 1 hour and 30 minutes (78 km/48 miles) from Admont Abbey Library to Hallstatt

After wandering around Admont and taking in the scenic views, pop back into your car and drive all the way to Hallstatt. It takes around 1.5 hours to reach this fairytale town from Admont. In case you’re not staying directly in Hallstatt, you might need to calculate different driving times depending on where you’ll stay.

Day 4: Full day in Hallstatt 

Hallstatt is a quaint lakeside village located in the mountainous region of Salzkammergut. It is known for its salt mining heritage and historic center which is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Hallstatt’s setting on the shore of Hallstätter See (Hallstatt Lake) means that you have arresting views in all directions which really do look like something you’d see on a postcard. This is easily one of the prettiest places you’ll stay during your Austria road trip.

Cars are not allowed in Hallstatt Zentrum. So, you will need to leave your car at the parking lot suggested by your hotel while you carry on with your one day in Hallstatt . 

Where to stay in Hallstatt 

As Halsttatt is a small village, accommodation options are limited and it’s essential to book far in advance. However, as you will have your own car you can also consider staying further out of the village in either Obertraun or one of the other nearby hamlets. These are my suggestions for where to stay in Hallstatt for your two nights.

LUXURY – Hallstatt Hideaway

This adults-only resort is located right on the waterfront and comprises a deluxe portfolio of suites that offer lake views. Modern interiors feature a rustic twist and the most decadent options come with additional features ranging from private patios to private spa pools.

MID-RANGE – Heritage Hotel Hallstatt

All rooms and suites at this 4-star hotel provide lake views and are equipped with a private bathroom, coffee maker, and homely touches. The accommodation spans three buildings and there is also a restaurant and sauna on site.

BUDGET – Gasthof Bergfried

This centrally located guest house features compact rooms with en suite bathrooms with the option to upgrade to a balcony suite. The property offers a shared relaxation area with a spa and sauna.

Alternatively, if you have a car, you might want to stay a little further out of town in one of the surrounding hamlets. One of the best options is Obertraun, from where you can reach Hallstatt within 10 minutes by car or you can also take advantage of the ferry.

We stayed at  Haus Salzkammergut  on our second visit to Hallstatt and absolutely loved everything about the hotel! Great location, amazing views from the balcony, lovely owners, cute doggie, and delicious breakfast. I can only recommend this place!

In case the hotel is full or you’re looking for something else, you can  check all the accommodation options in Obertraun here .

Best things to do in Hallstatt 

Hallstatt zentrum.

The center of Hallstatt is totally walkable and you can spend the morning exploring the main sites. Roam the Marktplatz Hallstatt with your camera, take in sweeping views from the top of Evangelisches Pfarramt and visit the ossuary (bone cemetery) at Michaelskapelle. You can also walk down to Small Island and head north of the village to appreciate the scenic viewpoints of Hallstatt.

Ride the ferry

Whether you stay in Hallstatt Zentrum or Obertraun‎, it is worth hopping on the ferry that connects the two towns in order to experience a different perspective of the river. The crossing takes around 25 minutes.

Hallstatt Skywalk

Ride the Salzbergbahn funicular up to this observation deck that rises 350 meters (1,148 feet) above the village and provides sensational views of the alpine landscape. You can also walk up but it is very steep and takes around 1.5 hours. The compromise is that you ride the funicular up and walk back down!

Salzbergwerk Hallstatt

Take a tour of this 7,000 year old salt mine which includes exploring on foot and by traditional mine train. The mine is only accessible via the 90 minutes guided tour which you can book online in advance to secure your spot. Access to the attraction is also via the funicular so you can plan these two activities for the same time.

Hallstatt Waterfall

A shorter waterfall option: you can walk to the Hallstatt Waterfall from Marktplatz in around 20 minutes. It gushes out from the vegetation and is a great way to warm up for a day of sightseeing or cool down in the spray during summer. 

Waldbachstrub Waterfall Hike

It takes around 40 minutes to hike to the Waldbachstrub Waterfall from Parkplatz Echerntal or just over 1 hour from Hallstatt Zentrum. This is an easy trail with minimal incline and is a great way to experience the local nature and warm up for some more challenging hikes later in the Austria itinerary.

Gletschergarten (Glacier Garden) Hike

The Glacier Garden is another wonderful hike that you can do from Hallstatt or Parkplatz Echerntal. This assemblage of rocks and streams formed during the last Ice Age as the local glacier receded from the gorge. It takes 2-3 hours to cover the entire complex and it isn’t too demanding.

Where to eat in Hallstatt

• Restaurant Rudolfsturm : Located within a medieval tower, this place is worth it for the views alone. The menu is typically Austrian and they also do a great apple strudel. 
• Restaurant Am See : This lakeside eatery offers charming views and the menu is rich with local dishes and fresh fish dishes. 
• Pizzeria Kegelbahn : Situated across the lake in Obertraun, this Italian restaurant serves good quality pizza and pasta alongside soups, salads, and Austrian fare. 

Day 5: Hallstatt to Salzburg 

Today you’ll need to check out of your hotel in Hallstatt as it’s time to head to your next destination: Salzburg! You’re going to have two stops along the way so your driving time will be around 2 hours including both stops.

I recommend starting the day as early as you can as you’ll have some exciting plans for the day!

5 Fingers Viewing Platform (Dachstein)

Driving time: 10 minutes (7 km/4.5 miles) from Hallstatt to Dachstein Krippenstein

Your first stop today is going to be the slopes of the Dachstein massif, a dramatic glacial mountain range that rises 2,700 meters (8,858 feet) in the region south of Hallstatt. Once you reach the summit, you can explore the 5 Fingers lookout, an ice cave, and 360° views.

You can park at the cable car, Dachstein Krippenstein, and then hop on the gondola up the mountain to experience incredible views as you soar. The ticket price depends on which attractions you’re planning to visit, you can check the different options here .

For reference, if you only want to visit the 5 Fingers platform, you’ll need to purchase a Panorama ticket that costs €35.30, while the all-inclusive ticket costs €52.20 which includes a visit to the caves as well.

In a remarkable feat of engineering, the 5 Fingers observation platform protrudes 400 meters (1,312 feet) above the ground below and is shaped in the form of a hand with 5 ‘fingers’ stretching out to grasp the cool mountain air.

Once you leave the cable car at Krippenstein (section 2), you’ll need to hike around 25-30 minutes to get to the viewing platform.

The hike is really easy and well-marked so it shouldn’t be a challenge even if you’re not in the best shape. And the views along the way are out of this world!

Within the same area as the lookout, you will also find the Dachstein Giant Ice Cave. Entering this huge cavern, you will encounter stalactites of all different colors before you catch sight of the massive wedge of ice filling the chasm.

Guided tours of the ice cave last 50 minutes and require a 15-minute walk from the cable car station, Schönbergalm (section 1). If you do want to explore the cave, you will need to dress warmly as the average temperature inside is -2 °C (26.6 °F), even during summer. Make sure you pack layers for your 10 days in Austria!

You can find another cave at Schönbergalm (section 1) called Mammut Cave. It’s known as one of the largest karst caves in the world, hence the name. It takes around 15-20 minutes to reach the cave from the cable car station and as with the Giant Ice Cave, a guided tour lasts for 50 minutes as well.

Depending on how much time you have, you can visit either of the caves or both, or you can just go for the 5 Fingers platform for the panorama – it’s completely up to you!

Gosauseen 

Driving time: 30 minutes (27 km/17 miles) from Dachstein Krippenstein to Gosauseen

Gosauseen is a cluster of three beautiful lakes located in the Alps of Upper Austria. You can drive to the Gosausee Parking lot and park your car here while you explore, or you can park near the Gosaukammbahn cable car station and ride up to the lakes this way instead if you prefer.

There are a series of hiking trails that connect the lakes and give you the chance to explore phenomenal nature.

The shortest option is to just walk around the first of the three lakes, Vorderer Gosausee, which takes around 1-1.5 hours in total. The more challenging options take you to the middle lake, Gosaulacke, as well as the third and final lake, Hinterer Gosausee.

To visit all three bodies of water, you will need to allow around 5 hours. As the drive time today is around 3 hours, this is feasible if you depart from Hallstatt as early as possible and skip the caves at Dachstein.

If you don’t want to fully drain your batteries, my recommendation is to visit only the first lake and rest a little bit after you arrive in Salzburg.

Arriving in Salzburg

Driving time: 1 hour and 10 minutes (80 km/50 miles) from Gosauseen to Salzburg

After exploring the lakes, you’ll need to drive around 1 hour to get to Salzburg, which will be the next destination on your Austria road trip itinerary. Once in the city, you’ll need to stay for 2 nights to be able to spend one full day in Salzburg.

If you need recommendations of where to stay in Salzburg, check the next section for my tips!

Day 6: Full day in Salzburg

Salzburg presses its way up against the border with Germany in Western Austria and affords some of the finest views of the Eastern Alps. The Salzach River flows through the center of the city, with the Salzburg Alstadt (Old Town) resting on the left bank.

As the birthplace of the legendary composer, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, much of the culture of the city revolves around his lineage.

Fans will no doubt want to visit both Mozart’s Birthplace and Mozart’s Residence and catch a recital while in town. But Salzburg is also abundant in museums, galleries, stately residences, and gardens, restaurants, and shops, and it’s really not a place to skip off your Austria road trip.

You can easily spend one day in Salzburg exploring the delights of this UNESCO World Heritage Site and strolling along the riverside. 

Where to stay in Salzburg

As with Vienna, it makes sense to book accommodation as centrally as your budget allows. Hotels in Salzburg Altstadt are priced higher and you should expect to pay around €15 per day for parking so do factor that into your plans and budget.

If you stay further out in areas such as Itzling, Maxglan or Taxham then you will find that accommodation rates drop and you can transfer into the city center efficiently via bus.

These are my suggestions for where to stay in Salzburg for your two nights.

LUXURY – Small Luxury Hotel Goldgasse

All suites at this deluxe hotel are artistically presented and some feature a private terrace. The property is situated in Salzburg Altstadt within walking distance to all the major landmarks and has a wonderful restaurant on the premises. 

MID-RANGE – Hotel Wolf

Colorful rooms are comfortably designed with eclectic furnishings and immaculate bathrooms. The hotel is positioned within a building that dates back to 1429 and is located in the heart of Salzburg Altstadt. A fantastic breakfast is included in the rate. 

BUDGET – Hotel-Flair

Rooms at this budget hotel in Salzburg are clean with plenty of space and each comes with a private bathroom. The property is conveniently located for walking to and from Salzburg Central Station and is a 30-minute walk into Altstadt Salzburg. 

Best things to do in Salzburg

Salzburg alstadt.

As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Salzburg Alstadt is where you will find the most historic buildings and streets in the city, as well as museums, public squares, shops, and cafes.

You can call in at the shops on Getreidegasse, stroll down Sigmund-Haffner-Gasse, tour Mozart’s Birthplace, or dip into one of the Salzburg Museum institutions. 

Mirabell Palace & Gardens

This resplendent palace dates back to 1606 when the prince-archbishop Wolf Dietrich commissioned and gifted the residence to his mistress, Salome Alt. You can explore the sprawling gardens and peer into the public rooms of the estate.

If you are a fan of The Sound of Music then this place will be familiar to you already!

Kapuzinerkloster Viewpoint

This viewpoint is accessible via a climb up 260 steps to the Aussicht Kapuzinerberg. Your reward is the scenic views across the city towards Hohensalzburg Castle from the deck and they are worth the effort, I’d say they’re the best in town. 

Hohensalzburg Castle

Ride the funicular up the mountain to get up close to the defining emblem of Salzburg, and one of Austria’s most iconic sights.

Hohensalzburg Castle, the largest fully preserved castle in Central Europe, is home to a portfolio of museums that you can take your pick from. However, it’s the views of the city and the looming alps that more than justify making the journey. 

Where to eat in Salzburg

• Imlauer SkyBar : Located on the sixth floor of the Imlauer Hotel, this swanky restaurant is the perfect place to start your day in Salzburg with brunch or wrap up a perfect day of sightseeing with a decadent dinner!
• Café Bazar : After tackling the viewpoint climb, you can recoup your energy at this historic cafe that looks across at Salzburg Altstadt. Considered the home of artists and poets, the menu spans lunchtime specials, sweet treats, and moreish specialty coffees. 
• S’Kloane Brauhaus : Slip inside this 400 year old building and you will be greeted with the scents of traditional Austrian delicacies. The friendly staff are on hand to guide you through the menu to find your perfect dish!
• Lazarte : It might feel odd to dine on Latin American food during your Austria itinerary, but Lazarte delivers the real deal. Add a dash of spice to your trip and experience the flavors of Mexico, Peru, and beyond at this top rated restaurant. 

Day 7: Salzburg to Zell am See 

The distance from Salzburg to Zell am See via the specified attractions is 120 km (75 miles) and the drive time is approximately 2 hours. Tonight you will need to book accommodation in the little town of Zell am See-Kaprun for 2 nights.

Gollinger Waterfall 

Driving time: 35 minutes (28 km/17 miles) from Salzburg to Gollinger Waterfall

Head to Parkplatz Gollinger Wasserfall where you can leave your car and walk to this remarkable 75 meter (246 feet) waterfall which forms two tiers as it crashes down the cliff from the forest.

Between the months of May and October, you must pay €5 to visit the waterfalls on top of the parking fee which is also €5. You’ll need to drive around 35 minutes to get to the waterfall from Salzburg which makes it one of the best day trips from Salzburg.

There are different viewpoints along the waterfall and you can even hike to the top which I 100% recommend! It takes around 10-15 minutes to reach the lower viewpoint while it will take you approximately 35-40 minutes if you want to go all the way to the top.

The waterfall is super strong so be prepared to get a little bit wet! If you decide to go up, you’ll find a bridge that crosses over the water so that you can get very close to the water spray. It’s recommended to wear sneakers or hiking boots as the trail gets wet and slippery due to the mist.

Driving time: 7 minutes (3.5 km/2 miles) from Gollinger Waterfall to Parkplatz Bluntautal

Another day, another magical lake nestled between mountains and forestry to add to your Austrian road trip! Bluntausee changes color depending on the time of day you visit and what the weather is doing, so it might be emerald or sapphire tinted.

You can follow the hiking trail around the perimeter in less than one hour however swimming in the water is forbidden.

Since it’s only 3.5 km (2 miles) from Gollinger Waterfall, you can easily walk from one place to the other but if you’d rather drive, you can leave your car at Parkplatz Bluntautal which is the closest parking lot to Bluntausee. From the parking lot you’ll need to hike for around 30 minutes to reach the lake.

The trail is completely flat so the hike itself is really easy and it goes through a beautiful forest and crosses a crystal clear river. It’s absolutely worth visiting Bluntausee just for the scenery alone!

Hohenwerfen Castle

Driving time: 20 minutes (18 km/11 miles) from Parkplatz Bluntautal to Hohenwerfen Castle

In a country that is overflowing with beautiful castles, this one really takes the biscuit and is an essential sight during your 10 days in Austria! The hilltop fortress of Hohenwerfen Castle has stood in this spot for over 900 years and from the complex, you can look down at the Salzach River and across at the surrounding mountains and woodland. 

Access to the castle is via funicular or a short but steep 25-minute hike. Once at the fortress, you can observe a demonstration of the resident birds of prey in addition to exploring the museums.

There are always a number of temporary exhibitions which change throughout the year and seasonal events are hosted on the grounds. Entrance to the castle costs €10.40 and if you want to take advantage of the elevator, you can buy a combo ticket for €14.40.

Zell am See-Kaprun

Driving time: 50 minutes (57 km/35 miles) from Hohenwerfen Castle to Zell am See-Kaprun

Today’s final destination is Zell am See-Kaprun, a small town that sits on the shore of Lake Zell (Zeller See). The town is the gateway to the ski resorts and slopes of the Schmittenhöhe mountain that looms over the town and is accessible via cable car if you wish to take in the views.

You can go for a walk or hire some bicycles and cycle along the esplanade that begins at the southwest of the lake and skirts the circumference of the water.

Down at the south corner, you also have the option to rent kayaks or stand up paddleboard and float your way across the lake. There are a number of pretty parks dotted along the lakeside where you can enjoy a picnic and the town has a good spread of restaurants and hotels.

Where to stay in Zell am See

Zell am See-Kaprun is small but it does have a substantial number of hotels and guesthouses. As with Hallstatt, I encourage you to book accommodation way ahead of your Austria road trip and look further out of town if needs be.

Here are my recommendations for where to stay in Zell am See-Kaprun for two nights.

LUXURY – Salzburgerhof Wellness-, Golf- und Genießerhotel

This luxurious, family-run spa, golf, and pleasure hotel offers unique holiday experiences in a beautiful location in Zell am See. Surrounded by a splendid natural landscape, the Salzburgerhof combines 5-star comfort with 4 lilies in the Relax Guide for its spa quality and the culinary pleasures of 3 toques by Gault Millau.

MID-RANGE – Hotel Neue Post

Only a 3-minute walk away from the Zeller Bergbahn cable car, which provides access to the Schmittenhöhe skiing and hiking area, Hotel Neue Post enjoys an exceptional location in the heart of the old town of Zell am See.

BUDGET – Hotel Glasererhaus

Just a 5-minute walk from the shore of Lake Zell in the heart of Zell am See, Hotel Glasererhaus offers individually furnished rooms, a wellness area, and free WiFi. Most rooms additionally come with a balcony featuring a seating area.

Day 8: Highlights of the Kaprun Valley 

Today you will explore the attractions of the Kaprun Valley before returning to your Zell am See accommodation for a second evening.

Stausee Mooserboden

Driving time: 20 minutes (16.5 km/10 miles) from Zell am See-Kaprun to Kaprun Stauseen Parkhaus

Stausee Mooseroden is one of two high-altitude reservoirs and dams in the Kaprun Valley that resemble fjords. At 2,000 meters (6,562 feet) above sea level, the water is a startling shade of turquoise that contrasts against the circling cliffs and snow-capped peaks.

The dam wall at the Moserboden is 107 meters (351 feet) high and almost 500 meters (1,640 feet) long.

Unfortunately, you can’t drive all the way up to Stausee Mooserboden, so you’ll need to leave your car at Kaprun Stauseen Parkhaus (it’s free) and use the shuttle buses from there.

The parking house has 11 floors and if there’s enough free space, it’s worth driving all the way to the top because that’s the direction you’ll need to go in order to find the ticket office and the shuttle buses. If you park on the lower levels, you’ll need to climb up the stairs to get to the top of the parking lot.

Once you purchase your ticket, you’ll need to get on the shuttle bus which will take you to a very cool open-air lift. This is the largest open lift in Europe and it will take you up on the 431 meters (1,414 feet) incline within minutes.

After that, you’ll need to board another shuttle bus which will take you all the way to the reservoir. The whole process takes around 45 minutes and a return ticket costs €28 per person.

During your exploration, you can follow short hiking trails to get a full perspective on this dramatic landscape from the surrounding viewpoints. If you’re up for a challenge, you can also try some of the via ferrata routes but for that, you’ll need to have the proper gear.

If you want something easier, you can just hike up to the upper viewpoint which takes 10-15 minutes and it’s fairly easy. The route is quite narrow and steep so it’s best to wear sturdy shoes and watch out for your steps.

Sigmund-Thun Klamm

Driving time: 6 minutes (4.5 km/3 miles) from Kaprun Stauseen Parkhaus to Sigmund-Thun Klamm

Once you’re reunited with your rental you can drive 5 minutes along the road to the next attraction on your Austrian road trip itinerary.

Sigmund-Thun Klamm is a stunning ravine with an excellent wooden track that lets you walk past the water that thunders through the narrow chasm before culminating in a massive waterfall that falls like a veil.

You’ll find a couple of parking lots near Sigmund-Thun Klamm, the closest one is right at the crossing of Kesselfallstrasse and Klammweg. Once you park your car, you have to follow Klammweg and around 5 minutes later you’ll come across the ticket office which marks the entrance of Sigmund-Thun Klamm (an entrance ticket costs €6.50).

It takes around 20-30 minutes to go through the gorge and it’s important to note that the wooden track is one way only, you will have to take another road to get back to your car.

At the end of the trail you will reach another gorgeous lake called Klammsee that you can then complete a lap around. The lake is quite small and the trail around the lake is only 1.8 km (1.1 miles) so you can walk around the whole lake in 30 minutes.

All in all, you should factor around 1.5-2 hours to fully explore Sigmund-Thun Klamm and Klammsee together. There are few places where you can experience such an extraordinary spectacle of nature and it’s worth taking the time to complete the full route.

Alpine Coaster Maisiflitzer Kaprun

Driving time: 6 minutes (4 km/2.5 miles) from Sigmund-Thun Klamm to Alpine Coaster Maisiflitzer Kaprun

The next item on today’s agenda isn’t one for the fainthearted but it’s great fun! The Alpine Coaster Maisiflitzer Kaprun is essentially a rollercoaster combined with a toboggan.

Once comfortable in your two-seater sled, you will charge down the track reaching speeds of up to 40 km/h (25 mph), and screaming is fully acceptable.

The ride is open year-round and you can opt for a single ride for €14 or pay for 5 for €59.50.

Dinner at Mitterberghof Jausenstation

Driving time: 25 minutes (15 km/9.5 miles) from Alpine Coaster Maisiflitzer Kaprun to Mitterberghof Jausenstation, then 15 minutes (9 km/5.5 miles) back to Zell am See-Kaprun

After a fairly strenuous and hair-raising eighth day of your Austria road trip, you might just want to flop into your hotel bed. However, if you can summon the energy to drive a little bit more, this awesome restaurant is worth the 15-minute drive, especially on a balmy evening.

From the outdoor dining terrace, you can drink up views across the Kaprun Valley and Zeller See. Although, on overcast days you might be seated above the clouds!

You’ll find wholesome Austrian fare on the menu as well as an excellent variety of desserts. The restaurant is actually part of a family-run inn and you could even choose to stay here rather than in Zell am See if you prefer.

In case you’re not hungry or you have other dinner plans, it’s still worth driving up to the restaurant for the view alone.

Day 9: Zell am See to Mayrhofen 

The journey time from Zell am See to Mayrhofen via the below attractions is just shy of 2 hours, and the distance covered is 100 km (62 miles). You will need to book one night of accommodation in Mayrhofen for the penultimate evening of your Austria road trip itinerary.

Krimml Waterfalls 

Driving time: 55 minutes (55 km/34 miles) from Zell am See-Kaprun to Krimml Waterfalls

If you were impressed by the ravine yesterday then just wait until you clap your eyes on what is said to be the highest and most powerful waterfall in Europe!

You’ll find plenty of parking lots near the Krimml Waterfalls, the closest one is P4 so if you find free space there, go for it! There is a small tunnel going under the main road right next to the P4 parking lot, you’ll need to follow this road to get to the ticket office.

An entrance ticket costs €10.20 and if you want to visit the nearby Water Worlds Krimml museum as well, you can purchase a combo ticket for €13.90.

The Krimml waterfalls tumble over several layers and you can decide how far you want to hike. The first viewpoint is accessible via a 15-minute walk from the parking and this alone is impressive.

However, if you want to walk all the way to the summit of the falls, it will take 2-2.5 hours to complete the 380 meters (1,250 feet) hiking trail, and then you’ll need to climb back down so factor in a 5-hour round trip. It does get steep and slippery due to the spray, so excellent hiking boots and a reasonable level of fitness are required.

Driving time: 55 minutes (44 km/27 miles) from Krimml Waterfalls to Mayrhofen

After an intense morning, you can look forward to checking into your hotel in Mayrhofen and taking a leisurely afternoon. It’s a further hour to reach Mayrhofen from the waterfalls if you take Gerlos Strasse.

Since this is a private road, you’ll need to pay €11 per car for the road usage. Sometimes this road gets closed due to weather circumstances so it’s worth checking it in Google Maps in advance before you go in that direction.

If the road is closed or you don’t want to pay, you can take a detour and use another road to get to Mayrhofen, but it will take you 2 hour and 15 minutes this way.

Situated in the Zillertal Valley, in the province of Tyrol, Mayrhofen is another feeder town for the local ski resorts. You can ride the gondolas from the town up to the resorts where you’ll find loads of hiking trails if you have the energy, but the views are lovely on their own.

The Pfarrkirche Mayrhofen is a cute church and you can take a stroll along the river in town.

If you need a restaurant recommendation for dinner, check out Goldkind . They’re the number one restaurant in Mayrhofen according to TripAdvisor and let me tell you, they’re not wrong! The restaurant caters to everyone from vegans and vegetarians to meat lovers.

All the meals we tasted there were super delicious and the prices were reasonable as well (nothing too fancy or expensive). Give them a try, you won’t regret it!

Where to stay in Mayrhofen

As a lively ski town, Mayrhofen features a good spread of accommodation options. The following places are all centrally located and provide free on-site parking which is perfect for your one night in Mayrhofen.

LUXURY – Huber’s Boutique Hotel

This stylish hotel comes with all the luxury trimmings including a pool, spa, and scrumptious breakfast. The top-tier suites feature idyllic freestanding bathtubs and spacious balconies.

MID-RANGE – Gut Stiluppe

This beautiful lodge offers a spread of rooms and suites, including ‘Romantic’ and ‘Royal’ themed choices. There is a pool, sauna, spa, and garden terrace where you can unwind.

BUDGET – Brugger ApartHotel

Rooms at this inviting hotel are decorated in traditional Tyrolean style with wooden furnishings and feature a balcony, a private bathroom, and a seating area. Breakfast is included and the price is happily affordable.

Day 10: Mayrhofen to Innsbruck 

Can you believe that it’s the final day of your Austrian road trip already? Today your final destination will be Innsbruck but first you’re going to take a little detour to reach one of the most epic viewpoints in Austria.

Once you get to Innsbruck, you’ll need to book a hotel for one night.

Olpererhütte 

Driving time: 40 minutes (25 km/15.5 miles) from Mayrhofen to Parkplatz Schlegeis Stausee (Olpererhütte)

First up on the agenda today is a demanding hike up to Olpererhütte, a mountain refuge that sits 2,388 meters (1,273 feet) above sea level.

Olpererhütte is a 30-minute drive southwest of Mayrhofen. There is a parking lot marked as Parkplatz Schlegeis Stausee where you can leave your car as you tackle the Olpererhütte trailhead which starts a few minutes walk from the parking area.

This is another occasion where hiking boots are essential as the trail is steep and strewn with rocks and even some streams that trickle down the mountain which you’ll have to wade through.

The hike up will take between 2-2.5 hours and then you’ll need to make your way down carefully as well so you can factor in 4-5 hours for the whole hike. This is by far the most challenging hike on your Austria road trip itinerary but trust me, it’s so worth it for the views!

Once you reach the summit you are rewarded with breathtaking views of the landscape. You can appreciate the scenery from the Panoramabrücke Olpererhütte, which is a suspension bridge that overlooks the valley and turquoise Schlegeisspeicher down below. And of course, you can get a much-needed drink and snack at the hut.

If you do not fancy the hike then you can enjoy a more relaxing walk around the shore of Schlegeisspeicher, or even head straight to Innsbruck and spend longer there.

Ps: Before you think I’m crazy, I just wanted to let you know that I obviously did not hike up to Olpererhütte in a skirt! I was wearing proper hiking shoes with leggings and a top and I just changed to this red skirt at the bridge for the photos. Don’t underestimate this hike and please don’t try to complete it in pretty dresses!

Driving time: 1 hour and 40 minutes (92 km/57 miles) from Parkplatz Schlegeis Stausee (Olpererhütte) to Innsbruck

The final destination on your Austria road trip (or first, if you’ve flipped the itinerary) is the colorful city of Innsbruck, the capital of the Tyrol province. Most of the touristic attractions are situated within the Altstadt (Old Town) and you will find monuments, museums, and restaurants galore here.

Notable sights include the 16th-century palace, the Hofburg, and the Roman-style Triumphpforte which was erected in 1765. You can walk along the River Inn or hire a bicycle while a series of cable cars whisk you away high into the Nordkette mountain range which is situated in the Karwendel Nature Park.

If you completed the whole Olpererhütte hike then you’ll probably feel super tired so I recommend just casually strolling around the Old Town and finding a great restaurant for dinner.

My personal recommendation is Gasthof Goldener Adler, which is allegedly the oldest restaurant in Innsbruck. They have a really nice terrace right in the heart of the historic old town and their menu is full of authentic Austrian delicacies.

Where to stay in Innsbruck

Innsbruck is teeming with budget-friendly and luxury hotels and you can find decent deals in the city or elect to stay further afield if you are keeping your rental for the final night. Here are my top picks for where to stay in Innsbruck.

LUXURY – aDLERS Hotel Innsbruck

Being the tallest hotel in Innsbruck, aDLERS Hotel Innsbruck offers a breathtaking panorama from its stylish rooms. There is also a spa area on the 11th floor and guests can dine at the Panorama Restaurant and Bar on the 12th floor.

MID-RANGE – Faktorei

Sophisticated rooms weave minimalism with a rustic touch and a number are equipped with a balcony. On site you will find a bohemian cafe and a lovely bar where you can toast the end of your trip!

BUDGET – Hotel Garni Römerhof

Combining modern facilities with a traditional style, Hotel Römerhof enjoys a quiet location only 8 km from the center of Innsbruck. Stylish rooms offer amazing views of the surrounding woods and meadows and there is also a spa area on site.

Planning a trip to Austria?

Then you might want to take a look at all our other travel guides about Austria. I promise, they are just as awesome as this article was!

• Where to Stay in Vienna: 7 Best Areas & Hotels
• 2 Days in Vienna Itinerary: The Perfect Weekend in Vienna
• 19 Stunning Vienna Instagram Spots You Can’t Miss
• How to Spend One Day in Salzburg, Austria
• One Day in Hallstatt Itinerary: The Perfect Hallstatt Day Trip
• Hotel Review: Das Edelweiss Salzburg Mountain Resort
• Hotel Review: Hotel Post Lermoos, Austria

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8 thoughts on “The Perfect 10 Day Austria Road Trip Itinerary”

Hi, we are planning to visit Austria from 26 Nov- 3rd Dec and kind of follow this itinerary. However, could you please tick-off routes and places to be avoided during this time of the year?

I’ve never been to Austria during that time of year so unfortunately I don’t have any first hand experience to help with.

Some good advice but all of these places can be visited by train without adding to green house gasses. I can only hope that this ridiculous trend of travel bloggers posing in long dresses and skirts is dead soon. Seriously, posing in a flowing dress on a hanging bridge or hiking trail just distracts from your articles. It also clogs up travel spots for the rest of us travelers as we have to wait around while you get the perfect photo. Isn’t this blog to serve other travelers? Help with our trips? You’re doing the opposite. Please. Just stop.

Well, yes, most of these places can be visited with a train but then you’ll need a lot more time and wouldn’t be able to complete this itinerary in 10 days. But if you have more free time, go for it! I’m sorry if the pictures bothered you but at the end of the day, did you find the information on this blog helpful? Did it help you to plan your trip? If yes, you are welcome, if you found it useless, then you can just click away and read another blog. I don’t think that by sharing some pictures I like makes the article unhelpful but again, sorry if you feel that way.

Hi! I have been to Austria a few time and I still learned a lot from this blog. Some I have done before and I totally agree with your suggestions so I trust the many suggestions and ideas that I have not heard of or tried. Thank you for your thorough research and clear, well thought out itinerary. I picked and chose what I liked from it and will definitely use it on my trip in May. Really great job. Glad I came across your page. Thank you. Thank you!

Thank you so much for your lovely comment, it really means a lot and I’m so happy I was able to help you plan your trip. Have fun in Austria in May!

Can You tell me please which time have you visited. Because the flow of waterfalls is insane. To witness the same experience I’m asking your travel month. And yes i love your article so much that everyday i come and read your blogs.

Sure! We’ve been to Austria multiple times but most of these photos were taken on a road trip in the middle of June. Hope that helps!

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Austria Itinerary: Best of Austria in 10 Days

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Planning to spend 10 days in Austria? Our perfect Austria Itinerary for 10 days includes all the best things to do in Austria and detailed info about when to go, how to get around, where to stay, and more. You’ll find practical tips sprinkled all through the post. Plus, I’ve also included an interactive map for your ease.

Austria Itinerary: An Introduction

From the famously imperial and elegant capital of Vienna to the UNESCO World Heritage region of Wachau to the city of Music, Salzburg to the beautiful Alpine city of Innsbruck to the fairytale village of Hallstatt to the city of culture, Graz – Austria effortlessly charms its visitors.

Austria is full of beautiful places and experiences and I know it can get a bit overwhelming, yet, if you make the right use of your time and resources and plan your trip well, I’m sure you gonna ace the trip.

I believe the key to a perfect trip lies not just in ticking off the major attractions but in allowing yourself to pause, wander, discover, and connect. Instead of cramming too many places into your trip, pick a few places as per your interest, and take your time to explore them immersing yourself in each experience.

The secret to experiencing the best without feeling rushed or missing out is a well-thought-out itinerary. I’ve done the groundwork for you.

Here I give you the epic ten-day itinerary that lets you discover the best of Austria without the rush.

What’s so epic about it?

Well, we crafted our Austria itinerary in a way that’d allow you to get a taste of the iconic Austrian cities and breathtaking Austrian countryside. The best of both worlds, eh?

ℹ️ This itinerary perfectly fits families and couples who love road-tripping. Having said that, you need to rent a car to explore Austria. We love Discover Cars when it comes to renting a car anywhere in the world.

Planning A Trip To Austria: Travel Tips

Now that you have already made up your mind to visit Austria and are in the process of designing an itinerary that fits your interests, it’s vital to know the trip planning essentials like when to go, how to get to, how to get around, and more before you set off.

Best Time to Visit Austria

I often find myself suggesting trips during the shoulder months—April, May, September, and October. These months boast pleasant weather (perfect for outdoor fun), fewer crowds, and bargain prices. I visited Austria during the peak month of June and the quieter month of September too.

I enjoyed both times, yet, there’s something special about the off-season. It brings a unique charm, where you can slow down, and discover the more intimate side of the country. Austria is super busy and hot during the summer months of June, July, and August, so it’s best to avoid them.

If you don’t mind the cold, winter is a great time to soak in the festive spirit. Vienna and Salzburg are known for their Christmas markets . Plus, Hallstatt is one of the most beautiful winter wonderlands in Europe . And if you love winter adventure, Austria has some of the best spots for skiing, snowboarding, and winter hiking such as St. Anton am Arlberg , Kitzbuhel , Ischgl , and Solden . Winter is also a good time to experience one of the thermal spas in the country like Aqua Dome.

My favorite months to visit Austria are March and September. March brings spring with its wildflowers, green meadows, and stunning mountain views. September is perfect for witnessing the beautiful fall colors and exploring the wine regions.

You can also time your visit around the cultural experiences like Almabtrieb, Vienna Spring Festival, and The Donauinselfest.

Editor’s Note: This itinerary is versatile so you can tailor it to enjoy it in any season. If you need help customizing it, give me a shout-out.

How to Get to Austria?

Vienna International Airport is a perfect gateway to Austria from all the countries across the world and Austrian Airlines is the major airline carrier with a vast global network. Direct flights are available from famous cities in the USA, UK, rest of Europe, and India while one-stop flights operate from Australia. You can use Skyscanner or WayAway to get great deals on flights.

Vienna Airport Transfer

You can travel between the airport and the city through public transport (City Airport Train – CAT,  S7 Schnellbahn, Local Train – S-Bahn, ÖBB railjet train) or, airport shuttle – Vienna Airport Lines (scheduled around flight arrival times), or a taxi.

For a truly hassle-free experience, you can pre-book the fast and reliable private transfer from Vienna International Airport to your hotel or a vacation rental in Vienna .

Getting Around Austria

It’s easy to get around Austria. From domestic flights, trains, buses, taxis, and cars – there are innumerable options depending on your travel style and time. The public transportation system in Austria is robust. We haven’t used it, so can’t comment on the price point.

If you are traveling as a family (like we do), we recommend renting a car because it’s cheaper than the other options for group travelers or families and gives you much-needed comfort and freedom to explore the new country.

You can choose a car of your choice from hundreds of options at Discover Cars , an excellent and reliable car rental reservation platform.

Driving in Austria

If you’re driving into Austria from a neighboring European country, you must (without fail) buy a vignette or toll sticker and display it on the inside of your windscreen to navigate the motorways and expressways in the country.

A 10-day vignette costs € 9,90. You can buy it here . Also, make sure you read our guide to renting a car in Europe .

During our trip, we found that the prices for petrol and diesel in Austria were quite reasonable, often much lower than in other EU countries. However, I’m not up to date on the latest price changes.

🚘 Looking for reliable & affordable car hire in Austria?

We trust and recommend Discover Cars , a leader in online car rental bookings! It promises transparency, security, convenience, and incredible savings.

Is Austria Expensive to Visit?

For real. After all, it’s one of the top 10 most expensive countries in Europe, yet it’s somewhat more affordable compared to Denmark , Norway , and Switzerland.

So, I’d say, when compared to other European countries, Austria is moderately expensive. Costs for accommodations, dining out, and attractions can add up, particularly in popular tourist cities like Vienna and Salzburg.

But, you can save money by traveling during the off-peak season for better deals on places to stay and things to do, visiting free attractions, eating at local spots, staying in places where you can cook your own food, shopping for groceries at supermarkets, and getting city cards for discounts.

10 Days in Austria Itinerary Map

Austria Road Trip Itinerary: An Overview

This 10-day Austria itinerary starts and ends in Vienna and covers the cities of Vienna, Melk, Salzburg, Hallstatt, Graz, and Eisenstadt along with little countryside towns and a classic alpine pass road drive.

Just So You Know: We wanted to but couldn’t explore Innsbruck due to a time crunch. You can add the beautiful capital of Tyrol, Innsbruck to this itinerary for Austria with additional (2 or more days) time on hand.

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Detailed Austria Itinerary: Best of Austria in 10 Days

Day 0: arrive in vienna | day at leisure.

Your Austrian odyssey begins in Vienna, Austria’s capital and the largest city. It has to be one of my favorite cities in Europe. Why? You’ll see it for yourself!

Depending upon when you arrive in Vienna , you can plan your day accordingly.

We recommend checking out the Fenster Cafe for the best coffee in the town and Figlmueller for the traditional  Weiner schnitzel .

Austria’s love for coffee and cake is worth mentioning here. Viennese passion for coffee was recognized by UNESCO and it listed the Viennese Coffee House Culture on its Intangible Cultural Heritage list.

So, when in Vienna , you must not miss tasting one of the finest coffee cultures in the world . Make your way to Café Central , one of the most iconic coffee houses in Europe .

The interior is like stepping back in time, and the pastries? They’re like heavenly bites of Austria!

You can stroll the lovely streets of Vienna to get acquainted with it to understand its pulse before you start exploring the next day.

Day 1: Explore Vienna (Free Walking Tour, St. Stephen’s Cathedral, Naschmarkt, Schonbrunn Palace, Hundertwasser House, & Prater Wien)

Well rested, all rejuvenated, today you’ll tour the beautiful city of Vienna. Don’t rush around. You miss out on all the fun when you try to see or do everything. Remember, less is more.

We’d suggest taking a free walking tour that takes you through about 20 most important sights in the old town of Vienna. The tours start at Albertina Square and end at St. Stephen’s Cathedral and last for 2 hours.

We found it a nice way to explore a city if you just have a day or two in a city.

They’ll take you around Albertina Square, Monument against War and Fascism, Vienna State Opera House, Burggarten, Hofburg Palace, Graben, Mozart House, and all the lovely squares and parks.

For a sneak peek into the imperial history of Vienna, you can plan a visit to Hofburg Palace. The palace complex is home to many museums, a church, and chapel, the Spanish Riding School , and the Austrian National Library . The three most-visited places within the complex are the Imperial Apartments , the Imperial Siver Collection , and the Sisi Museum .

The guide is usually knowledgeable and interestingly narrates the history. You can tip him or her at the end of the tour as per your choice. Tourists usually tip from €10 to €30.

If you prefer a private walking tour, we recommend this tour which includes all the highlights of the Old Town. It’s loved and rated highly by travelers. Check the availability and book in advance !

Once you’re done with the walking tour, we recommend climbing the South Tower (Steffl) of St. Stephen’s Cathedral aka Stephansdom Cathedral to enjoy the wonderful view over Vienna. It costs €5.50 per adult and €2 per child aged 6 to 14 years.

Like Vienna’s big old heart, standing tall and proud in the city’s center, Stephansdom has been around since the 12th century—talk about being ancient! Imagine a giant, gothic cake made of stone, complete with lacy spires and a roof that looks like a colorful tile puzzle.

PS: You can buy an all-inclusive ticket for €20 per adult and €5 per child aged 6 to 14 years that includes a visit to the cathedral, catacomb tour, north tower, and south tower. Check the official website for more details.

After relishing the beautiful views, it’s time to relish the good food. Head to Naschmarkt . It’s about a 10-minute walk from St. Stephen’s Cathedral.

Naschmarkt is a destination in itself. Stands are selling fresh, fruits, vegetables, and local delicacies and then there are restaurants serving Viennese, Italian, Mediterranean, Indian, Thai, Vietnamese, and whatnot cuisines.

If you go by our suggestion, go to Gasthaus Zur Eisernen Zeit to enjoy the local cuisine. It’s one of the best places in Vienna to try traditional Austrian food because tasting traditional cuisine is a window into the culture of the place!

Once done with lunch, make your way to Karlsplatz U-Bahn station and board the U4 to Schönbrunn Palace , the summer palace of Hapsburg.

The palace is grand and beautiful, so much so, it feels like stepping into your most extravagant dreams. No wonder, it’s one of the best things to do in Vienna .

You can walk the gardens and admire the palace from outside for free. Or you can take one of the guided tours of the palace to see the rooms of the palace. And there’s even a zoo to delight the young visitors!

Click here for more information on opening and closing hours, tours, and tickets.

Take a U-Bahn (U4) to Landstraße and walk a bit to Hundertwasser’s House . Admire the unusually beautiful house of Austria’s artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser and know more about the artist at Kunst Haus Wien .

Hundertwasser House looks like a rebel kid who has refused to follow the straight and narrow. He’s like – Who needs rules? Imagine a building doodled by a daydreaming artist—no straight lines, just wavy walls, uneven floors, and a roof teeming with trees and plants. I call this living, breathing piece of art an architectural smile 🙂

Take tram 1 to reach Prater Wien , the world’s oldest amusement park.

It’s a place where both the young and the young at heart come to let loose. You can spend an entire day hopping from one ride to another and gorging on delicious food, still not get bored here.

The park is open 24/7 and entry is free. The individual attractions and rides are charged. Vienna Giant Ferris Wheel (Riesenrad) is Vienna’s trademark and a must-take ride at Prater. The ride costs €13.50 per adult and €6.50 per child.

End your day with dinner at Rollercoaster Restaurant . It’s unique and one of the best places in Vienna to dine with kids.

Day 2: Explore Vienna (Belvedere Palace, House of Music, Vienna Woods, or Stadtpark & MuseumQuartier, and Vienna State Opera)

Start your day 2 with a visit to the Belvedere Palace , a masterpiece of Baroque architecture and home to an extensive collection of Austrian art.

This place is a feast for your eyes both inside and out! The palace has two main buildings: Upper and Lower Belvedere .

Upper Belvedere houses the famous The Kiss by Gustav Klimt , among other art treasures. Trust me, you won’t want to miss this!

How about a second round with Vienna’s famous coffee scene? Trust me, it’s like an encore performance you won’t want to miss!

You’ve experienced the classic – Cafe Central. This time around, try Cafe Sacher . Not just a cafe, it’s an institution in Vienna!

This iconic spot is home to the famous Sacher-Torte , a delectable chocolate cake that pairs perfectly with your coffee.

Now that you’re caffeinated, head over to the House of Music .

This interactive sound museum gives you a crash course in the evolution of music, especially focusing on Austria’s classical music heritage. Tap, beat, and compose—this is a hands-on experience!

All soaked in the timeless Viennese charm, it’s time to continue your love affair with the city, but through food. I’d recommend Plachutta Wollzeile , a perfect place to indulge in traditional Austrian cuisine. With warm, old-world charm, the restaurant is known to serve the best Tafelspitz in Vienna.

If you or someone in your crew leans more towards plant-based delights, Tian Bistro am Spittelberg offers a menu that’s an artistic take on vegetarian and vegan dishes. Go try it!

If you’re in for some lush scenery, the Vienna Woods are an absolute treasure. Known as the Lungs of Vienna , these woods offer a fresh, tranquil break from city life.

But if you’d rather not stray too far from the city’s heartbeat, Stadtpark is your urban oasis right in the heart of Vienna.

And, if you’re looking to mix some culture with your fresh air, the MuseumsQuartier is where it’s at! With its artsy, hip vibe, MuseumsQuartier isn’t just a cultural cornerstone—it’s also a social hotspot.

Home to some of Vienna’s most prestigious museums and exhibitions, the area thrives with outdoor cafes, funky art installations, and even impromptu street performances. It’s a bustling space where locals and tourists alike can get their fill of art, food, and Vienna’s inimitable style.

You sure wouldn’t find it difficult to find a place to dine in Vienna – a city bursting with culinary creativity, however, if you need my recommendation – how about Steirereck ? One of the best restaurants in Austria, it offers a modern twist on Austrian cuisine.

It’s time to watch an opera or a concert at the renowned Vienna State Opera House – a classic Viennese experience you can’t miss.

You must check the schedule and book your tickets online on their official website well ahead of time, as these shows often sell out. Ticket prices can range from a budget-friendly €15 for standing-room spots to splurges of €200+ for premium seats.

If opera isn’t your jam, Vienna’s nightlife is just as enchanting. Feel free to explore a Viennese night adventure that aligns with your vibe and interests.

Read More: How to Spend 10 Days in Europe: Perfect Europe Itineraries

With More Time in Vienna

If you find yourself with extra time in Vienna, there are so many hidden gems in and around the city and a lot of day trip options to keep you busy and happy.

You can visit Zentralfriedhof aka the Central Cemetery, one of the largest cemeteries in the world. Located in the 2nd district, Leopoldstadt, Karmeliterviertel is a quaint neighborhood that is a window into the Jewish life in Vienna. If you are here on a Saturday, make sure to soak the local life at Karmelitermarkt .

You can drive to the outskirts of Vienna and visit Lainzer Tiergarten to spend a day amidst peaceful nature.

Where to Stay in Vienna

We stayed at the Hotel Altstadt Vienna . It’s about 1.6 km (1 mile) from the center and is a great place for families and couples to stay.

Here are the other hotel recommendations in Vienna:

Hotel Sacher Wien: Located close to Hofburg and the State Opera, the Hotel Sacher is the best when it comes to luxury. It’s also known for being the birthplace of the original Sachertorte.

Hotel Beethoven Wien: With historic charm, a family-run Hotel Beethoven is the best mid-range accommodation you can get in Vienna.

Motel One Wien-Staatsoper: Just a few steps from the Vienna State Opera and the Ringstrasse, Motel One Wien-Staatsoper is great if you are looking for affordable yet stylish accommodation.

Der Wilhelmshof: Located in a quiet area close to the Prater Amusement Park, Der Wilhelmshof is perfect for families. With spacious rooms and suites, it can accommodate families of various sizes.

Hotel Imperial: In existence since 1873, Hotel Imperial is the symbol of the royal history of Vienna, making it a timeless choice for history and culture travelers.

I have a guide to the best neighborhoods with the best hotels in each neighborhood in Vienna to make choosing an accommodation easy for you.

How to Get Around Vienna

Vienna has an extensive public transportation network that makes getting around the city easy and efficient.

You can use a combination of buses, trains, trams, subway (U-Bahn), and regional trains (S-Bahn).

You can access the transport maps posted at U-Bahn stations, bus stops, and tram stops. Wiener Linien information offices at U-Bahn stations offer free maps.

The tickets and passes can be bought at U-Bahn stations and Tabak Trafik kiosks or on tramcars and buses.

A single ticket costs about €2.40 and a bit more when purchased on trams and buses. You can also buy 24-hour, 48-hour, 72-hour, or, weekly tickets that save you some Euros if you are planning on using public transportation expensively for your stay in Vienna.

Do consider buying a Vienna Pass or Vienna City Card (both are different) if you’ve more than 2 days in Vienna as they save a lot of money, time, and hassle.

Vienna Pass offers:

• Free entry to 60+ attractions
• Fast-track entry to many attractions
• Unlimited access to Hop on Hop off Buses
• Free guidebook and map
• Travelcard that gives unlimited access to public transport at an additional cost

Vienna City Card offers:

• Free Unlimited travel on public transport in Vienna
• Discounts in museums, tourist attractions, restaurants, and shopping

The city card has different options viz. Vienna City Card (public transport and discounts), Vienna City Card public transport, discounts, and 24h Hop-On Hop-Off Big Bus), Vienna City Card Transfer (public transport, discounts, and Airport Transfer), and Vienna City Card Transfer + Tour (public transport, discounts, 24h Hop-On Hop-Off Big Bus, and Airport Transfer).

We purchased the Vienna City Card for 48 hours.

Get your Vienna City Card here

Vienna Pass is only worth it if you want to cram a lot of museums and attractions during your short stay (2 or 3 days) in Vienna.

We usually love to wander around the city while visiting 2 to 3 attractions and trying local cuisines rather than running around to cover a larger chunk of them. So, Vienna Pass will be a waste of money for people like us.

Vienna Pass would add value to people who want to see all or at least most of the popular attractions in the city.

Buy your Vienna Pass here

Unique Local Experiences in Vienna

• Attend a classical music concert in a historic venue such as the Musikverein, the Vienna State Opera, or Schönbrunn Palace Orangery • Experience the UNESCO-listed Viennese coffee house culture by spending time in one of the city’s traditional coffee houses like Café Central, Café Sperl, or Café Demel • Indulge in local wine tasting in a Heuriger (traditional Austrian wine tavern) in one of the neighborhoods famous for their Heurigen such as neighborhoods of Grinzing, Heiligenstadt, Nussdorf, and Stammersdorf • Participate in a traditional workshop at the Augarten Porcelain Manufactory , one of the oldest porcelain manufacturers in Europe. • Take a cooking class to learn how to prepare traditional Austrian dishes such as Wiener Schnitzel, Apfelstrudel, or Sachertorte. • If you’re visiting during the ball season (November to February), attend a traditional Viennese ball at one of the most beautiful balls in Vienna like the Vienna Opera Ball and the Ball of the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. • Sample local food at Naschmarket , the largest and most famous market in Vienna • Join a magical Christmas tour around Vienna • Try the local delicacies of Wiener Schnitzel at Figlmuller, Apfelstrudel and Kaiserschmarrn at Cafe Landtmann, and Sachertorte at Sacher Cafe

Day 3: Day Trip to Bratislava from Vienna

How about taking a day trip to another country?

You can take day trips to Budapest (Hungary), Prague (Czech Republic), and Bratislava (Slovakia) from Vienna.

As we had Budapest and Prague already on our Central Europe itinerary , we chose Bratislava as our day trip destination over them.

Why did we choose Bratislava as a day trip from Vienna? Well, Budapest is about 3 hours and Prague is about 4 hours away from Vienna compared to Bratislava that’s just about an hour’s drive. Also, Bratislava is compact enough to be explored in a day but Prague and Budapest need more time.

The drive from Vienna to Bratislava is a breeze. You wouldn’t know when you crossed the border into another country.

The must-see sights in Bratislava in a day include Bratislava Castle, St. Martin’s Cathedral, Old Town Hall, Primate’s Palace, Michael’s Gate, Blue Church, Slavin, and UFO .

Oh! And don’t forget to get clicked with weird but interesting statues in Bratislava Old Town .

Finally, you can’t leave Bratislava before you dine at Bratislava Flagship Restaurant . It’s one of Europe’s largest restaurants and is known for local Bratislava cuisine and traditional Slovak dishes. Bryndzove halusky (potato dumplings with sheep cheese) and kapustnica (sauerkraut soup) are must-tries.

You can also join a food tour to explore the traditional Slovak cuisine.

Where to Stay in Bratislava

If you plan to extend your visit to Bratislava and want to spend a night there, we suggest LOFT Hotel Bratislava or Apartment Alex .

How to Get Around Bratislava

Bratislava has an extensive network of trams, buses, and trolleybuses. Though, you’d rarely find a need to use public transport except for Bratislava Castle and Petržalka.

Bratislava Old Town is compact and can pretty much be explored on foot.

Bus 93 goes to Petržalka while Trolleybus 207 goes to Bratislava. You can catch them from Hodžovo námestie, the main square in Bratislava. Tickets can be purchased at stops, newsstands, and tourist information centers.

We walked the old town and used a small tourist city train ( Prešporáčik Oldtimer ) to see other major landmarks that can’t be explored on foot.

Book your Bratislava City Tour by Prešporáčik Oldtimer here

PS: The Bratislava Card offers unlimited travel by public transportation in Bratislava, free entry to about 14 museums and galleries, a free guided tour of Bratislava, and 100+ discounts on many attractions and restaurants.

Head to the Danube Tower while returning from Bratislava to enjoy dinner with a view. Danube Tower (Donauturm), the tallest structure in Austria offers panoramic views across Danube Park, Vienna’s old town, and Vienna woods.

A bit expensive in terms of food, 360˚ rotating restaurant, Turmrestaurant offers views that leave you breathless.

With More Time in Bratislava

If you extend your time in Bratislava, you can explore the ruins of Devin Castle . It affords beautiful views over the Danube and Morava rivers. This day trip combines wine tasting along with a visit to the castle.

You can take a Bratislava post-communism tour to learn more about the political history of Slovakia.

The Little Carpathians have some amazing hiking trails offering beautiful views of the vineyards, forests, and even Bratislava from afar. The region is also known for its wine production, so you can consider a wine-tasting tour.

Day 4: Drive from Vienna to Wachau Valley | Explore Wachau Valley

It’s time to say auf wiedersehen to Vienna and hallo to the Austrian countryside.

Today you’ll enjoy a beautiful drive to Danube Valley (Wachau) . It’s a beautiful stretch between the towns of Krems and Melk.

A drive from Vienna to Melk takes just around an hour but as there are amazing sights and attractions along the way, the drive will take longer depending on how much time you spend at each place.

The main points of Interest on the way from Vienna to Wachau:

• Aggsbach Markt
• Schloss Schönbühel
• Melk/Melk Abbey

Melk Abbey   (Stift Melk) , a major attraction in Wachau is a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site and one of the biggest Baroque monasteries in Europe. Once you’re done touring Melk Abbey, enjoy your dinner at Stiftsrestaurant .

The road trip ends in Melk. You’ll spend a night in Melk.

Where to Stay in Melk (Wachau Valley)

We stayed at Ferienwohnung im Cottageviertel and you know, couldn’t get enough of it. It’s that lovely!

Find out the cheap deals on the best places to stay in Melk

How to Get Around Wachau

The most efficient way to get around Wachau is by rental car. Our Austria itinerary urges you to rent a car to explore Austria. Find cheap and best car rental here.

If you plan to explore Wacahu on a day trip from Vienna , you can book this full-day Danube Valley Bus and Boat Tour from Vienna.

Unique Local Experiences in Wachau

• Sample local wines at one of the historic vineyards like Gruner Veltliner and Riesling • Take a bike tour to explore Wachau Valley. • You can visit a local apricot orchard (Wachau is famous for apricots) to taste fresh apricots, apricot liqueurs, jams, and other products made from this delicious local fruit. • For a unique cultural experience, attend one of the local festivals that celebrate the region’s wine, apricots, and local culture such as the Apricot Blossom Festival in spring and the Wachau Gourmet Festival • Discover the region’s beauty on a ride on a traditional wooden boat known as Zille on the Danube • Explore the Wachau World Heritage Museum for deeper insights into the region’s significance

Day 5: Drive from Melk to Salzburg | Explore Salzburg

It’s time to head to the city of Mozart, Salzburg. From Melk to Salzburg it’s a little less than 2 hours of drive.

Like a postcard coming to life, Salzburg is such a beautiful little town. It’s the birthplace of the famous composer, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart , so you can imagine that music is in the soul of the city. The Hollywood classic, The Sound of Music , which brought even more musical fame to its streets, was also filmed here.

And the host of cozy cafes and stunning baroque buildings dotting the music-filled cobbled streets add to the vibe. I’m not exaggerating when I’m saying that the Old Town of Salzburg aka Altstadt feels like stepping into a living museum. There’s a reason it’s listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Getreidegasse, a street full of antique shops with traditional wrought-iron signs, is the most beautiful part of the Old Town. You’ll find a super pretty canary-yellow color building here, that’s Mozart’s birthplace!

With its striking dome and twin towers, the Salzburg Cathedral is another landmark in the Old Town that holds great spiritual, cultural, and historical significance. Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was baptized here.

There is also a majestic fortress sitting on a hill above the city. It elegantly defines the city’s skyline (view of the fortress from the musical steps of Mirabell Gardens is my favorite) and when climbed, offers you views so breathtaking, they’ll etch themselves in your heart.

To sum up, the major attractions in Salzburg include Mirabell Palace and Gardens, Mozart Wohnhaus, Love Locks Bridge, Getreidegasse, Old City Hall, Grunmarkt, Alter Markt, DomQuartier, ResidenzPlatz, MozartPlatz, KapitalPlatz, Fortress Hoehnsalzburg, Mönchsberg, St. Peter’s cemetery, Hellbrunn Palace, and Kapuzinerberg.

Salzburg is compact enough to be explored on foot. You’ll be able to see most of the sights without rushing. That’s the beauty of Salzburg.

Have dinner at Bärenwirt before you check into your hotel.

With More Time in Salzburg

If you want to extend your visit, you can take a day trip to Hohenwerfen Castle aka Burg Hohenwerfen in Werfen. About an hour’s drive away, this 900-year-old castle is perched like a crown above the Salzach Valley and is hugged by the Berchtesgaden Alps and the adjoining Tennen Mountains. Considering the location, you can imagine the view it affords. Plus, the falcon show here is the absolute highlight, especially for the kids.

While here, you can take on The Sound of Music Trail , a scenic walking path that takes you through some of the iconic filming locations from the 1965 classic, The Sound of Music, including the meadow where the famous Do-Re-Mi song was shot. If you have watched the movie (I’m sure you’ve), you won’t need them, just so you know, you’ll find the Informational panels that tell point out each location where specific scenes were filmed.

You can also plan a day or two in Innsbruck , the Capital of the Alps. An easy 2.5-hour drive from Salzburg, its Old Town is one of the most beautiful historic town centers in Europe. Some of the most famous landmarks include the Golden Roof (Goldenes Dachl), the Hofburg Imperial Palace and Ambras Castle , and Casa Helbling .

Proud host of the Winter Olympics twice, Innsbruck is a haven for winter sports enthusiasts, offering world-class skiing, snowboarding, and bobsledding.

Where to Stay in Salzburg

We stayed at an Airbnb apartment in Ainring, Germany. It’s around 7 km from the center of Salzburg. Gerhard was an amazing host and the apartment was sparklingly clean with a beautiful view of the mountains.

If you want the comfort of a hotel, here are a few of my top picks:

Hotel Sacher Salzburg : Famous for its original Sacher Torte, the Hotel Sacher is strategically located on the banks of the lovely Salzach River. In existence since 1866, it holds out luxury with a side of history.

Hotel Goldener Hirsch : We chose Hotel Goldener Hirsch , a traditional luxury hotel, on our second visit to Salzburg and absolutely loved our decision. Right on Getreidegasse, in the heart of the Old Town, their location is on point! I loved their classic Austrian-style decor.

Hotel & Villa Auersperg : Within walking distance of the Old Town, Hotel & Villa Auersperg is a family-run boutique hotel that is a secluded retreat right in the middle of the city.

Meininger Hotel Salzburg City Center : If you are looking for a budget stay, Meininger offers great value. It’s a bit outside the city center but well-connected by public transport.

IMLAUER HOTEL PITTER Salzburg: This one’s great for families. IMLAUER has spacious family rooms and is equipped with kid-friendly amenities.

Check our guide to the best hotels in Salzburg for more inspiration.

Grab the best deals on hotels in Salzburg

How to Get Around Salzburg

Salzburg has an efficient public transportation system consisting of buses, trams, and bus taxis but we recommend getting around on foot. The city is pretty walkable. In fact, you’d explore more on foot.

The bike is another great option to discover the city of Salzburg. You can rent a bike or join a bike tour to enjoy Salzburg.

There are many guided group tours and private tours available like this , this , and this one . You can choose one of them to cover the highlights of Salzburg.

Get advantage of free and unlimited access to public transport, free entry to top attractions and sights, and additional discounts and perks with the Salzburg Card .

Unique Local Experiences in Salzburg

• Walk in the footsteps of the musical genius, Mozart • Take the Sound of Music Tour • Attend the Salzburg Festival which celebrates the city’s rich musical heritage • Explore Salzburg on the Salzach River Boat Tour • Salzburg is home to some of the oldest breweries in the world and a perfect place to experience the rich beer culture of Austria . Augustiner Brau is where beer is still served from wooden barrels in a traditional beer hall or garden • Watch a performance showcasing intricate puppetry art at a historic Salzburg Marionette Theatre • Relish the original Sacher-Torte at Sacher Cafe • Taste the sausage culture at Salzburger Wurstelkonigin • Take the Christmas market tour

Day 6: Day Trip to Hallstatt from Salzburg

Today, you’ll take a day trip to the charming tiny town of Hallstatt. It’s around a 1 hour 30 minutes easy drive from Salzburg to Hallstatt.

You can also take a half-day guided tour to Hallstatt from Salzburg .

Easily one of the most beautiful places in Austria, there’s nothing much to do in Hallstatt but to pause and enjoy the beauty of it.

It’s a teeny-weeny Alpine Valley village that literally looks like it’s straight out of a fairy tale. Its setting by the lake ( Lake Hallstatt ), with mountains ( Dachstein Alps ) all around, makes it super pretty. It’s so tiny that you can walk around the entire village in less than 2 hours.

As I walked along the lake promenade, I couldn’t stop taking pictures. With the stunning lake on one side and the historic, colorful houses on the other, every moment was picture-perfect.

You are sure to notice a simple yet elegant building with a striking spire that adds to Hallstatt’s fairy-tale skyline, it’s the Evangelical Church . Don’t just admire it from the outside, go inside and experience the peaceful beauty of the place.

Tucked against the mountain, the Catholic parish church , along with the world-famous Ossuary (charnel house) and the peaceful cemetery are also worth visiting attractions in Hallstatt.

You’ll find a lot of cozy cafes to relax in at the historic square, Market Square . Or you might choose to sit at one of the lakeside cafes with a cup of coffee.

If you plan a visit during Christmastime, the square is alive with the beautiful Hallstatt Christmas Market.

You might also enjoy taking a walk along the upper path , where you can catch glimpses of the lake peeking through Hallstatt’s rooftops.

You can also enjoy a boat ride on Lake Hallstatt to appreciate the different perspectives of the town.

Once you’ve walked the town, ride the funicular that takes you to Salzwelten Hallstatt aka Hallstatt Salt Mine , the oldest known salt mine in the world where you can learn how salt was mined thousands of years ago.

After exploring the salt mine, gather some energy to hike up to a panoramic viewpoint that floats in the air,  Hallstatt Skywalk which offers a bird’s-eye view of Hallstatt and its stunning surroundings.

If you have time and preferably, the comfort of your car, you can also add Dachstein Krippenstein to your itinerary for Hallstatt. Less than 7 km (4 miles) from the center of Hallstatt, it’s a Dachstein massif within the Salzkammergut region of Upper Austria. Outdoor lovers can hike, ski, or snowboard here.

For me, the  5 Fingers viewing platform stood out. It extends out over a cliff like a hand (I was scared)  and gives stunning views of the Alps.

You can also plan to explore the underground world of ice and stone at Dachstein Ice Cave and Mammoth Cave .

I’d not recommend eating in Hallstatt. I didn’t find good places to eat in Hallstatt. I’d suggest making a stop (of course, if you have your own car) at Fuschl or Bad Ischl on the way from Hallstatt and Salzburg. We ate at BRUNNWIRT ESSEN und WOHNEN in Fuschl and really liked it.

Looking for offbeat stays? Check out the best places to stay in the Salzkammergut region of Austria.

With More Time in Hallstatt Dachstein Salzkammergut

I had no idea that the World Heritage region of Hallstatt Dachstein Salzkammergut is a gold mine of experiences. Be it nature, culture, history, or wellness – it has something for everyone. I promised myself to come back to Austria and spend a week or more here to explore it all.

The region is a sweet treat for travelers who love the outdoors! There are endless numbers (there are over 76) of lakes such as Attersee , Traunsee , Gosausee , Mondsee , Altaussee , Grundlsee , and Wolfgangsee , all known for their crystal-clear water. You can drive around the region exploring the stunning lakes and spending time sunbathing by the lakeshores or trying out water sports.

The area is also dotted with more than 4,150 kilometers of trails for hiking and biking. There are trails of different levels such as Giglachseen Trail , a moderately challenging 5.4-mile (or 8.6 km) loop trail near Schladming, an easy 2.6-mile (or 4.2 km) Plombergstein Trail that’s perfect for families, or Echern Valley Loop , a 4-mile (or 7 km) trail that takes you to the unique glacial gardens and the beautiful Waldbachstrub waterfall.

There are charming towns of Bad Ischl , St. Gilgen , and Gmunden in Salzkammergut that are perfect for families who love culture and history. They are home to iconic castles, museums, galleries, and theatres. The historic wellness and spa town of Bad Ischl is also known for its therapeutic thermal springs. Felsentherme Bad Gastein is one of the most famous thermal spas here.

Where to Stay in Hallstatt

If you decide to extend your time in Hallstatt, you’ll need these recommendations. There are not many accommodation options in Hallstatt and if not booked in advance, already few options are also full.

If they are already booked, you can choose to stay in one of the charming towns nearby such as Obertraun , Bad Goisern , Bad Ischl , and Gosau .

Hallstatt: Heritage Hotel Hallstatt , Seehotel Grüner Baum , and Fenix Hall

Obertraun : Haus Salzkammergut , Apartmenthaus Simmer , and Landhaus Osborne

Bad Goisern : Hotel Moserwirt , Pension Maria Theresia

Bad Ischl : EurothermenResort Bad Ischl Hotel Royal , Villa Seilern Vital Resort , Pension Waldesruh , and Landhaus Fay

Gosau: Landhaus Koller

How to Get Around Hallstatt

Hallstatt is a tiny village with just one street along the lake. You can walk the entire length in just about 10 to 15 minutes.

You can drive or catch bus 542 or 543 from Hallstatt Bus Station to Dachstein Krippenstein.

Day 7: Drive Grossglockner High Alpine Road

It’s time to drive one of the most beautiful and epic roads in Austria – Grossglockner High Alpine Road. You’d love everything about it.

The Grossglockner, named after Austria’s highest mountain is one of the highest alpine roads in Europe. The road leads through Austria’s Oldest National Park, Hohe Tauern National Park .

Spanning 48 kilometers from Bruck an der Großglocknerstraße in Salzburg to Heiligenblut am Grossglockner in Carinthia, this stunning road climbs more than 3,000 feet, weaving through a thrilling series of 36 hairpin bends.

It’s not just a road trip but offers several amazing attractions and activities on the way. I have a detailed post about this exhilarating road trip that you can check out.

There are many restaurants and cafes along the road for you to eat or just relax with a cup of coffee and cake.

Be aware, the road operates within specific months due to weather conditions. Typically, it’s open from early May to early November. Always check the current opening times before planning your trip, as these can vary based on snow levels and maintenance work.

Where to Stay Along the Grossglockner High Alpine Road

You’ll spend a night at Lienz .

We stayed at Parkhotel Tristachersee in Lienz. It’s awesome in every aspect. The view of Lienz Dolomites and exceptionally peaceful surroundings make it desirable.

Check out the amazing deals on hotels in Lienz

Day 8: Drive from Lienz to Graz | Explore Graz

Often overlooked, Graz is Austria’s second-largest city and the capital city of Styria. Named the European Capital of Culture (2003) and City of Design (2009), Graz has so much to offer in terms of art, design, architecture, and culture.

The heart of the city, Hauptplatz is full of historic architecture. Graz is also home to the Kunsthaus Graz (Art Museum) and the futuristic Murinsel , an artificial island on the Mur River.

With its beautifully landscaped gardens, The Eggenberg Palace is a fine example of baroque architecture that makes it a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Schlossberg is a hill in the city center that you can climb to take in the panoramic views. It’s accessible by foot, elevator, or funicular. At the top, you’ll find the Uhrturm (clock tower), Graz’s iconic symbol, and beautiful gardens.

I was fascinated by Graz’s cultural richness. Plus, it’s not as crowded as some other famous cities in Austria, so you can take your time and enjoy everything at your own pace.

The best places to eat and drink in Graz are dreizehn by Gauster , Schmidhofer im Palais , Ginko , Tribeka , and Cafe Fotter .

Where to Stay in Graz

We stayed at Schlossberghotel – Das Kunsthotel . Located near the base of the Schlossberg hill, it’s like an art extravaganza. It’s a delight to see the art pieces displayed throughout their public areas and rooms.

Some other nice accommodation options include:

Grand Hotel Wiesler Graz : This one’s placed along the Mur River and the charm of Grand Hotel Wiesler lies in the way it combines a historic exterior with modern, design-focused interiors.

Hotel Weitzer Graz : Located near the Graz Hauptplatz and the Schlossberg, Hotel Weitzer is one of the largest hotels in the city. It’s known for its traditional Styrian hospitality and elaborate breakfast buffet.

Lendhotel : A newer addition to Graz’s hotel scene, Lendhotel is a unique boutique hotel that stands out for its artsy design and decor.

Find out the best deals on hotels in Graz

How to Get Around Graz

Graz’s public transport system includes buses, trams, old town trams, the Schlossbergbahn funicular, and the Schlossberg lift. Flat-fare tickets are valid for all buses, trams, and Schlossbergbahn funiculars.

You can buy tickets from the bus driver, ticket machines in the tram, ticket machines at certain train stations, TicketApp, and Tabak/Trafik kiosks.

Unique Local Experiences in Graz

• Visit local vineyards or wine bars in the city to taste a Styrian wine like Sauvignon Blanc • Enjoy a traditional meal with local wine at Buschenschank (a traditional Styrian wine tavern) • Sample local produce, cheeses, meats, and other Styrian specialties at local farmers markets such as Lendplatz and Kaiser-Josef-Platz

Day 9: Drive from Graz to Eisenstadt | Lake Neusiedl (Burgenland)

Today you’re traversing through Burgenland while driving from Graz to Vienna.

Burgenland is a region to the southeast of Vienna that borders three countries – Hungary (east), Slovakia (north), and Slovenia (south).

It, in fact, feels like traversing different countries on one road trip.

We recommend exploring the towns of Eisenstadt and Neusiedl am See.

Eisenstadt is a small but charming city that showcases the diverse heritage of Austria. Talking about the main attractions here, Esterhazy Palace , a former residence of the influential Esterhazy family, is one of them. The palace is famous for its beautiful baroque architecture and huge gardens. It’s also a major cultural venue, notably associated with the composer Joseph Haydn , who worked there for many years.

Inside the palace complex, you’ll also find the Haydn Church (Bergkirche), where the composer’s tomb is located, and the Haydn House , a museum dedicated to his life and work.

The most relaxed way to explore the city is to walk its pedestrian-friendly streets, stop by the charming main square, and enjoy a cup of coffee at one of the cafes lining the streets.

Located right on the shores of Lake Neusiedl, Neusiedl am See is a haven for birdwatchers, nature, and outdoor lovers. You can indulge in sailing, windsurfing, and cycling (there’s an extensive network of bike paths around the lake). The town is part of a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its special steppe lake and nearby wetlands full of a diverse range of flora and fauna.

You have the option to spend a night at Neusiedl am See or drive an hour to Vienna.

Find out the best places to stay in Neusiedl am See

Day 10: Fly Back Home

Day 10 – your last in Austria – is completely yours to spend however you want to.

A museum? Just strolling the streets? Shopping for souvenirs? The last cup of Viennese coffee at one of the historic cafes in Europe , Cafe Central?

And yes, make sure to reach the airport on time considering you’ve to drop your rental car at the airport depot before beginning your journey back home.

A trip through Austria is definitely going to be a trip to remember for you!

Have you ever been to Austria? How did you like it? We’d love to hear from you. Followed this itinerary and enjoyed it? Share it with the world. Pretty please?

Essential Resources for Visiting Austria Here are the essential resources I personally use and recommend for planning a trip to Austria. Visa for Austria: Please check if you need a visa or not for Austria on the   website of the Federal Ministry of the Interior . We have a complete guide to walk you through the Schengen Visa process. For a hassle-free experience, you can delegate your visa application process to iVisa . For travel insurance:   Heymondo . It’s the most affordable travel insurance with maximum coverage. You get 5% off if you use my link. For Connectivity:   Airalo . It’s the first-ever eSIM global website where you can buy an eSIM at affordable prices and stay connected while traveling. For booking flights:   Skyscanner  and  WayAway . They are the best search/comparison flight booking sites that help you find the best and cheapest flight deals. And with the  WayAway  membership plan, you’ll get cashback for every booking. Plus, with the special promo code “MELODIES” a 10% discount is activated. International money transfer & currency exchange:   Wise . With competitive exchange rates, fast transfers, and a 9.1/10 rating on TrustPilot, it’s the only service you should use every time you transfer and exchange internationally. For finding accommodations:   Booking.com  and  Agoda . They are the pioneers among hotel booking websites that give you a lot of choices with their huge selection of properties reviewed by travelers. For rental car:   Discover Cars . It’s the best international car rental platform for all your car rental needs. For ground transport:   Omio ,  RailEurope , and  Bookaway . Best sites for booking bus and train tickets in Austria. For tours & day trips:   Viator ,  Get Your Guide , and  Klook . They offer the best city tours and day excursions in Austria. For guidance on the go: A Lonely Planet Guidebook for Austria comes in handy here. It has been our trusted travel friend for years now for the most relevant and up-to-date recommendations on what to do and what not.

Recommended Reading: Renting a Car in Europe Schengen Visa for Europe How to Plan a Trip to Europe Gorgeous Places to Visit in Austria Best Things to Do in Austria 10-Day Central Europe Itinerary Things to do in Vienna, Austria Where to Stay in Vienna, Austria Best Day Trips from Vienna, Austria Vienna Quotes Wachau Valley, Austria Things to do in Salzburg, Austria Best Hotels in Salzburg Things to do in Hallstatt Grossglockner High Alpine Road

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Anjali Chawla

2 thoughts on “Austria Itinerary: Best of Austria in 10 Days”

Hi … loved ur Austria itinerary We are a group of 5 adults ages – 56-60 yrs wanting to travel Austria & south Germany sometime in 1st week of june’23

Can u help ? And we don’t want to drive . Looking at a car with guide cum driver . Do let me know .

Glad you loved our post. June is a peak season so make sure you book everything well in advance. There are several car rental companies in Austria that offer chauffeur-driven cars. You can check with autoeurope. Also, you can check with the hotel concierge, they might help you get good service at a great price.

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A Detailed 10-Day Austria Itinerary

I’m convinced that the best part of Austria is its nature. The Alps with their amazing viewpoints, deep gorges and cool waterfalls are a huge part of this Austria itinerary, though I’ll take you to a handful of towns and cities as well.  

You’ll be changing hotels a few times and sleeping in Vienna, Hallstatt, Zell am See and Innsbruck and using them as a base to explore the incredible surroundings.  

You might also be interested in reading:

• 3 Days in Vienna: The Ultimate Itinerary
• What is Austria Known For? 13 Tips and Tricks for Your Vacation
• 9 Unusual Things to do in Vienna
• 7 Top Tourist Cities in Austria: Highlights, Trips, Hotels, and More

Austria itinerary map and overview  

At the beginning of each the description of each day you’ll find a map, a list of the main stops of the day, my restaurant tips , and some links to my other articles where you can read up on further details.  

I’ve also tried to save you a chunk of time by recommending hotels in each city, all from my personal experience.   

This Austria itinerary expects you to be renting a car . You can read what I think about driving in Austria at the end of this article.  

This is the itinerary route:  

Day 1: Vienna (sleep in Vienna) Day 2: Vienna (sleep in Vienna) Day 3: Schloss Ort, Salzburg (sleep in Hallstatt) Day 4: Hallstat  (sleep in Hallstatt) Day 5: Dachstein (sleep in Hallstatt) Day 6: Hohenwerfen Castle, Liechtenstein Gorge, Zell am See (sleep in Zell am See) Day 7: Grossglockner, Zell am See boat tour, Bad Gastein (sleep in Zell am See) Day 8: Kitzsteinhorn, around Kaprun (sleep in Zell am See) Day 9: Krimmler Waterfalls, Swarovski Kristalwelten, Innsbruck (sleep in Innsbruck) Day 10: 007 elements (Museum of James bond) (back to Vienna or sleep in Innsbruck)  

Day 1 of itinerary for Austria: Vienna 

Main sites visited on day 1: Stephansdom, Anker Clock, Cafe Sacher, Belvedere, Karlskirche, Rathausplatz, Hundertwasser House, Kunst Haus Wien Restaurant tips: KLYO | Superfood Deli | Dogenhof | Taeko Ramen | Café Sacher Hotel recommendations: Boutiquehotel Das Tyrol | Steigenberger Hotel Herrenhof Further reading: Vienna 3 day itinerary | Austria in a Nutshell | Know Before You Go: Austria

You’ll kick off your Austria itinerary with a wander around Vienna, the country’s capital. I already have a full Vienna 3 day itinerary written up with extensive details of visiting every single spot, so I will keep it simple here and you can go check out more details in the other article if you need to.  

First things first though- you need a place to sleep in Vienna.   

Your hotel in Vienna  

I’ll give you two tips on places to stay, each different in style so everyone can choose their favorite.  

First is the cheaper of the two, the 4-star Boutiquehotel Das Tyrol. It’ very artsy fartsy—pieces from Vienna’s best designers decorate the interior. It’s located on Mariahilfer Straße shopping street .   

The beds in this hotel are uber-comfortable, the staff goes above and beyond and Prosseco is served with breakfast. Nuff said.  

Prices start from EUR 180 per night.  The second hotel is one star more expensive: Steigenberger Hotel Herrenhof, but it’s smack in the middle of Vienna’s center. It has probably the best price/quality/location ratio out of all of Vienna’s hotels.   

The rooms in this historical building are pleasantly modern (with AC), with 21 st century interpretations of various styles.  

Two whole floors of the hotel are dedicated to a spa and fitness center . So instead of artsy fartsy, you can be... working out.  

Prices start from EUR 250 per night. 

Day 1—Vienna—stop 1: Stephansdom  

Time spent here: 20 minutes to 1.5 hours   

Every Vienna visit starts with St. Stephen’s Cathedral (Stephansdom), which stands prominently on Stephansplatz —even a bit too prominently, because it takes up the whole square!  

You can see the main length and some smaller chapels of the Stephansdom for free , but you do need a ticket to go further into the church and see the alter, for instance.  

I recommend at least paying to go up the north tower for the best views of those tiles that are so inconveniently on the rooftop, and also Vienna’s largest bell, the Pummerin.  

Another hidden option is touring the catacombs (only with guide), where you’ll be in the company of the bones of 11,000 people, including some very high-ranking Habsburgs (actually, Stephansdom only has their internal organs, but more about that on the tour).   

Tickets can’t be bought online on the official site. Buy tickets at the ticket desk in person, they take cash only !   

• Stephansdom official website   
• Google Maps link   
• Open Monday to Saturday 9am–11:30 am and 1 pm–4:30 pm, Sundays and public holidays from 1 pm–4:30 pm. Check the website for detailed opening times for each section though.   
• Tickets EUR 20 for all inclusive, EUR 6 for cathedral audio guide, EUR 6 for each of the towers and the catacomb tour.   

Day 1 —Vienna— stop 2: Ankeruhr (Anchor Clock)   

Time spent here : 10 minutes   

Now take a little quick stroll through the streets off of Stephansplatz. A couple blocks north is the Anker Clock, built in Art Nouveau design in 1914.   

It forms a bridge between two buildings, with 12 figures “walking” through the little windows, each being showcased for 1 hour and accompanied by music on the hour every hour.   

The main attraction is at noon when all 12 figures form a parade for all of the tourists on the street below. It takes about 10 minutes, so prepare for your neck to ache afterwards!   

• Google Maps link to Anker Clock    

Day 1—Vienna—stop 3: Time for sacher!

Time spent here : 1 hour    

Is it ever too early for cake? Nah, and this one is a Viennese classic—Sachertorte is a  decadent chocolate cake with apricot jam  in the middle.  

The home of Sachertorte is  Café Sacher , a café with a typical Viennese coffeehouse atmosphere. It’s part of  Hotel Sacher Wien , which is a fabulous, very Viennese and very expensive 5-star hotel in the center of Vienna. If you book a stay there using my affiliate link , I will love you forever. I get a bit of commission at no extra cost to you, so all you’ll feel is a sense of fulfilment and joy.   

You can walk to Hotel Sacher Wien from Stephansplatz in about 10 minutes using the pedestrian street called Kärntner Straße.   

Café Sacher offers sacher from an original 1832 recipe , so go and try the famous cake at its original home. It sits across from the State Opera , so you can get a glimpse of that on the way, too.    

Making reservations is strongly recommended.  

• Café Sacher   
• Google Maps link   
• Open daily 8 am–8 pm   

Day 1—Vienna—stop 4: Belvedere   

Time spent here : 2 hours to see at least one museum, min. 4 hours for everything  

The Belvedere consists of the Upper Belvedere Palace (in the south), the Lower Belvedere Palace (in the north), and the 600 m (0.4 mile) long garden that’s between them, plus the Belvedere 21 art space.   

It’s a big place and you won’t have time to see everything unless you really prioritize it in your itinerary.  

The Upper Belvedere is the main palace, bigger and grander, and houses a large Gustav Klimt collection , including his most famous work, “The Kiss”. Plus works by Schiele, Funke, Messerschmidt and van Gogh.   

The Lower Belvedere and stables show special exhibitions and art from all periods. The palace is overall smaller and less grand, but still nice. It’s where Prince Eugene used to live, so it’s not ordinary in the slightest.   

If you’re more into contemporary art or think palaces are boring, visit the Belvedere 21 instead. It belongs under the Belveder umbrella, but it’s a “vibrant urban hub” just a bit further south from the Upper Palace.  

The main garden is free to enter, as is the botanical garden. The Privy Garden is free if you have the palace ticket. Then there’s Europe’s oldest Alpine garden with over 100 bonsais and the main attraction— rhododendrons that blossom starting in April. You pay EUR 4 to see those (this garden is only open from the end of March to the beginning of August).   

I love rhododendrons, as I’ve mentioned in some other articles (l ike this one about Scotland’s best castles —see Dunvegan Castle), so I’d certainly try to see the Alpine Garden if you’re visiting in the time when you can see the flowers in full bloom, it’s just spectacular.   

• Belvedere   
• Google Maps link   
• Open daily 10 am–6 pm  
• Tickets available online , EUR 15.90 for just the Upper Belvedere, EUR 22.90 for Upper and Lower Belvedere. See website for other combinations.   

Day 1—Vienna—stop 5: Karlskirche   

Time spent here : 20 minutes  

Just a 10-minut walk back towards Vienna’s historic center is the Karlskirche, aka St. Charles Church. It’s considered the best Baroque church in Vienna , but is actually a mix of styles: Byzantine, Renaissance, and Baroque with Greek and Roman elements. You’ll see what I mean when you see the two huge columns in the front.   

There’s a slightly out-of-place metal elevator in the middle of the church that takes you up to the dome so you can stare at the ceiling frescos from way up close.  

You can also go outside on the terrace for a nice view of the city and the fountain and park in front.    

• Karlskirche official website   
• Google Maps link    
• Open Monday to Saturday 9 am–6 pm, Sundays 12 pm–7 pm  
• Tickets cost EUR 8  

Day 1—Vienna—stop 6: Rathausplatz and Town Hall   

Now I suggest hopping on a tram on Oper, Karlsplatz and getting off 4 stops later at Rathausplatz .  

Rathausplatz is the square and park that’s always bustling with people and, especially in the summer and winter, plenty of events. The main focus point is the massive city hall, or Rathaus .   

The town hall’s façade is apparently modeled after Brussels’ Town Hall , which is the most eye-catching building on the already fabulous Grand Place in Belgium’s capital. Read more about Brussels’ highlights (including the Town Hall) .   

You can visit the Rathaus interiors (or some of the representative halls at least) on a guided tour, but it is mostly offices full of officials that are going about their daily business. I prefer just seeing it from the outside.   

If there’s nothing special going on when you’re visiting, you’ll only need a few minutes to take a look around.   

Day 1—Vienna—stops 7+8: Hundertwasser House and Kunst Haus Wien   

Hop back on the tram (no. 1 takes you there directly) and go to Hertzgasse .   

Hundertwasser House looks like you let kindergarten kids paint the façade, but in fact, it’s an architectural highlight, built in 1983–1985.  

It’s an apartment building   designed by Friedensreich Hundertwasser, a famed Austrian painter. He was given complete free reign in the design of the house, and his style is loud and clear . You will see bold colors, swirling designs, and grass and trees everywhere.    

The building is still used as a residence , so you can only look at it from the outside.   

• Hundertwasser House is on  Kegelgasse 37–39  ( Google Maps link )  
• Opening hours of the Hundertwasser museum: 10am-6pm  
• Tickets cost around 9,5 EUR and are available here   

Time spent here : 1 hour  

A couple blocks down the road is the similarly quirky  Kunst Haus Wien . This building was also designed by Friedensreich Hundertwasser. Inside, you can admire some top international exhibitions with a  focus on photography , and it also serves as the  Hundertwasser Museum.    

Stick around at the café downstairs for more artsy vibes. You can also buy some souvenirs at the gift shop.   

Tip:  If you like weird, organic architecture, take a  trip to Barcelona  and see Gaudí’s best work!    

• Kunst Haus Wien   
• Google Maps link    
• Open daily 10 am–6 pm   
• Tickets cost €12    

Day 2 of itinerary for Austria: More of Vienna 

Main sites visited on day 2 : Schönbrunn Palace and Gardens, Museum Quartier, Hofburg Palace and Heldenplatz, Prater’s Giant Ferris Wheel Restaurant tips: KLYO | Superfood Deli | Dogenhof | Taeko Ramen Hotel recommendations : Boutiquehotel Das Tyro l | Steigenberger Hotel Herrenhof Further reading: Unusual places in Vienna | Vienna 3 day itinerary | Know Before You Go: Austria   

Today you’ll do a bit of a combination of days 2 and 3 of my Vienna 3 day itinerary . You’ll start at Schönbrunn Palace, spend some time in Vienna’s museums in the center, and end your day at the funnest place in town, Prater.  

Day 2 —Vienna— stop 1: Schönbrunn Palace and Gardens   

Time spent here : 2 hours minimum 

Right away I have to warn you that the gardens are so vast that if you wanted to visit everything there (like the Palm House and Zoo), you’d have trouble to see it all in a full day . So come here ready to just get a taste of Schönbrunn.   

Schönbrunn Palace is an imperial summer residence in Baroque style, kind of like the Austrian version of Versailles.  

A visit to Schönbrunn is easily worth it even if you decide against visiting the palace interiors. The gardens are huge and are worth visiting in their own right. There are fountains, lakes, statues, ruins, a rose garden, and many beautiful avenues to walk through.  

Entrance to the Schönbrunn gardens is free .   

I recommend that you stop at  Gloriette Viewing Terrace  ( Gloriette Schloss ). Not only is it pretty on its own, especially when viewed from over the lake, but the entrance is free and you can get the perfect photos of Schönbrunn Palace from there. You’ll get the palace gardens in front and the city in the background, it’s pretty cool.   

If you want to see the interiors, Schönbrunn offers a good variety of tours , like the Imperial Tour that takes you through 22 rooms with an audio guide and takes just about 30 minutes .  

Make sure to book tickets in advance . Especially in the summer months, there can be crowds trying to get in, and they do limit the number of people inside, which results in hours of waiting.  

Schönbrunn’s located a bit of a ways away from the city center, but you can easily get there by tram, bus or metro (Schloss Schönbrunn is the stop you’re looking for), and obviously by taxi too. If you have your own car, there is a parking lot ready to babysit your vehicle for EUR 4 per hour.     

• Schönbrunn Palace and Gardens website   
• Google Maps link .  
• Open daily 8:30 am–5:30 pm most of the year for the palace, 6:30 am–8 pm for the gardens (shorter opening times in the winter, check website for details)  
• Entrance to the gardens is free. Tickets to the palace vary depending on which tour you choose. For example, the Imperial Tour costs EUR 22 including audio guide.   

Day 2 —Vienna—s top 2: Museum Quartier and some museums  

Time spent here : 2 hours 

Go back to Vienna’s city center to the Museum Quartier, a museum neighborhood that’s a pleasant combination of historical buildings, modern architecture and (sometimes strange) art. 

You can stroll around Museum Quartier, looking at the outdoor art and popping in for a coffee if you feel like it. There are several restaurants/ cafes right in the main courtyard, and most museums have their own coffee offering as well.   

Tip: If you are a book nerd, stop by the Buchhandlung Walther König. It’s a cool little book shop with tons or art books.   

Most of the museums here are art galleries focusing on modern art . Choose one based on your interests.  

The mumok is the big, grey, windowless one that screams “I’m a contemporary art museum”. It has some very wacky pieces that you’ll either love or hate.  

Alternatively, try the Austrian Architecture Museum , the Leopold Museum (Austrian modern art), international contemporary art at the Kunsthalle , or the interactive children’s museum called ZOOM .  

If none of that sounds interesting and you’d like to step back in time instead of into the future, you can head across the street to the Kunsthistorisches Museum , aka Vienna’s Art History Museum. Even if you just take a minute to look at the incredibly ornate dome in the entrance hall, it’s worth a stop.  

Day 2—Vienna—stop 3: Hofburg Palace and Heldenplatz   

Time spent here : 1–2 hours for just the exteriors    

The next spot you’ll want to visit is one of the biggest palace complexes in the world : Hofburg Palace. It might sound surprising since it’s in the middle of Vienna, but the place is vast!   

Having said that, visiting all the interiors in the Hofburg complex would take you all day, so for this visit, I recommend just spending time outside. There’s still a lot to see. 

Hofburg is where the Habsburg Empire was ruled from for centuries. The kings moved out in 1918, but Austria’s president still takes care of all his boss duties from there to this day.   

Aside from being a place to manage an empire (or country) from, Hofburg serves as a place of many museums. There’s also the Imperial Chapel , Austrian National Library, the Imperial Treasury and even the Spanish Riding Schoo l.  

Tip: I’ve included the Spanish Riding School in my article about unusual places to visit in Vienna . It’s home to the Lipizzaner stallions and is the oldest classical horse-riding school in the world.     

If you do visit the interiors of Hofburg Palace, you’ll be able to see the private apartments and representative rooms of Emperor Franz Joseph and Empress Elisabeth and get a feel for what it was like to be part of the imperial family.   

The square in front of the Imperial Palace is called Heldenplatz . You get the best views of the palace from there, along with some statues of important men on horses.   

Walking away from the palace, the square turns into the Volksgarten , a large, regal public park which includes fountains, manicured flower gardens, a rose garden, and even a replica of a Greek temple.    

• Hofburg Palace website   
• Opening times vary from building to building, but in general, 10 am–6 pm daily should get you into most places.   
• Tickets to the apartments, the Sisi Museum and the Silver Collection cost EUR 16. Other ticket options are available. Just walking around the complex and gardens is free.   

Day 2—Vienna—stop 4: Prater’s Giant Ferris Wheel   

Time spent here : However long you wish; the ride itself takes about 15 minutes 

The day is almost at it’s end, so it’s time for some fun! Hop in a taxi and head out to one of Vienna’s most prominent symbols, the Ferris Wheel (“ Wiener Riesenrad” ).   

Located in Prater Amusement Park to the north of Vienna’s city center, The Giant Ferris Wheel. It’s been adorning Vienna’s skyline for over 100 years .   

You can either just take a ride in one of the wooden cabins—that takes about 15 minutes—, or, turn it into an extra special experience:    

For a kick of adrenaline, hop on Platform 9. You’ll get a harness and then you’ll be strapped onto a simple steel construction with a glass floor! Up you go! Tickets cost EUR 89 .   

For a culinary experience, buy tickets (in advance) to one of the gourmet wagons and go round and round while you eat! It won’t come cheap though— a dinner for 2 starts at EUR 260 .   

Before or after your ride, visit the Panorama at the foot of the Ferris Wheel to learn about the history of the Wheel through audio-visual installations in eight Ferris Wheel cabins.   

Of course, the rest of Prater is right there, so if you’re up for it, continue your evening on some fun rides! Each ride is paid for separately , so you can even just wander around and enjoy the atmosphere without paying any kind of entrance fee.   

• Giant Ferris Wheel website   
• Open (almost) daily year-round, mostly morning until midnight. Check opening hours here .   
• Tickets cost EUR 13.50 for adults.   

Day 3 of itinerary for Austria: Schloss Ort, Salzburg

Main sites visited on day 3 : Schloss Ort, Salzburg Fortress, Salzburg Old Town Restaurant tips : Marc's Restaurant-Bar in Salzburg | Rudolsfturm | Seecafé Hallstatt Hotel recommendations : COOEE Alpin Hotel in Gosau Further reading: Best places to visit in Salzburg | Best places in Hallstatt  

Today you’ll be driving to Salzburg, stopping at a water castle, and ending your day in your hotel in Hallstatt –that's right, not in Salzburg. It’s because Salzburg is boring and Hallstatt is not.  

Your hotel in Hallstatt...sort of  

I’ve taken extra care to recommend really good hotels in this super cute town, so feel free to make use of those affiliate links! You pay nothing extra and I get a small commission if you do.  

When I say “in” Hallstatt, I don’t necessarily mean “in” Hallstatt—any of the neighboring villages will do. If you want to take my advice, stay where I stayed :  

The COOEE Alpin Hotel in Gosau was an amazing place. Nice, spacious bedrooms, wonderful breakfast, and awesome location. There is also a sauna at the hotel and free parking.   

Prices start at EUR 150 per night with breakfast.  

Day 3, stop 1: Schloss Ort  

Time spent here: 1 hour   

The drive to Salzburg from Vienna takes 3.5 hours without stops, so you’ll want to break that up a bit. Austria’s lakes make for the perfect excuse to get out of the car and stretch your legs.  

At Schloss Ort in a town called Gmunden, you can get amazing views of the lake and the Alps from a tiny island, and with a small castle to boot. It’s about 2.5 hours into your drive.  

To set expectations straight, the castle is fun to visit because there is a narrow wooden walkway out onto the lake to it, and the views are fantastic from there and the peninsula that it leads from. The castle isn’t an actual tourist site apart from the courtyard with a small museum about peasant life. You par EUR 5 to walk inside even just the courtyard.  

The only other way to see more of the inside of the castle is to have a wedding there, and there’s no time for that on this Austria itinerary! This isn’t Vegas ok.  

You can take advantage of the onsite café (accessible without paying the entrance fee) and take in those views with a mélange in your hand.  

The little island that the castle sits on is reached by walking across a bridge from the peninsula that includes a nice park area called Toscanapark.   

Park your car on the large and free parking lot right at the start of the peninsula.  

• Schloss Ort website  
• Parking lot map 
• Open daily 10 am–5 pm 

Day 3, stop 2: Salzburg Fortress and the city  

Time spent here: 2 hours for the fortress, indefinite for the city 

I’m not a huge Salzburg fan (boring!), so think you don’t need to kill yourself trying to see the entire town if you’re short on time or energy. The one part I do recommend visiting is the fortress— Festung Hohensalzburg . But even that isn’t that amazing. Not inside at least.  

Salzburg’s fortress is an eye-catching part of Salzburg’s skyline, because it site perched atop a hill right above the city center. It’s one of the largest (still existing) 11th-century fortress complexes in Europe.   

There are several options of tickets for Salzburg Fortress , so just choose what sounds most appealing. I thought the interiors weren’t the greatest, aside for maybe the armory. The private bathroom in the Archbishop’s bedroom was a unique sight, too!  

If you buy your tickets online, you skip the inevitable lines at the entrance.  

How to get to Salzburg Fortress  

You have to leave your car under the hill somewhere in the city. The closest and most convenient parking for Salzburg Fortress is at Mönchsberggarage . It’s underground and there’s enough space for everyone. If you get your parking ticket stamped at the fortress , you only pay EUR 4 for under 4 hours, EUR 6 for longer.  

You can either hike for 15 minutes to get up to the fortress, or hop on the funicular at Festungsgasse 4 . The ride up only takes a minute. The funicular price is included in the fortress ticket , so buy it as a combination. If you only want to take the cable car up the hill, it costs something like EUR 4.5.  

If you get stuck in cable car traffic, don’t be afraid to tuck into the li ttle café right by the bottom station . It’s a simple place that serves simple food at good prices.  

Right when you get out of the funicular, turn right and head to the terrace . You’ll get views of the city and of the mountains and it’s arguably the most impressive part of Festung Hohensalzburg.  

• Salzburg Fortress official website  
• Google Maps link 
• Open daily 8:30 am–8 pm between May and September ( check opening times for other months here)  
• Ticket prices start at EUR 13.30 for the basic pathway with funicular included 

What to see in Salzburg in one day  

Other than the Salzburg fortress, I have a whole article on what to see in Salzburg that also includes an itinerary for a 1- and 2-day trip, so jump on over to that for details of other spots that you might want to see in the city. 

For example, you might want to visit the Salzburger Weihnachtsmuseum . A small museum with a historical collection of Christmas decorations, toys, and various Christmas-related this and that.  

Besides the fortress and some Christmas fun, you can spend some time around Residenzplatz (the Residence Square), with all the mandatory sights at your fingertips:  Salzburg Cathedral , DomQuarter/Alte Residenz , Neue Residenz  with the famous  Glockenspiel  (nowadays home of the  Salzburg Museum ), St. Peter’s Monastery , Cemetery, and Catacombs .  

Once you’re done in Salzburg, drive the 1 hour to my favorite Austrian city—Hallstatt . It’s more of a village, but you’ll love it, I’m sure of it!  

Day 4 of itinerary for Austria: Hallstatt 

Main sites visited on day 4 : Salt mines, Skywalk, the church and ossuary, Hallstatt Museum, boat tour Restaurant tips : Rudolsfturm | Seecafé Hallstatt Hotel recommendations : COOEE Alpin Hotel in Gosau | Fenix Hall Boutique Hotel Hallstatt Further reading : Best places to visit in Hallstatt | Austria background | Top cities in Austria

Today you’ll stay put in Hallstatt , my favorite Austrian village.  It’s small, but it certainly warrants a full day to visit!  

Get up bright and early and head out to explore the cutesy alleys of Hallstatt before the rest of the hordes of tourists do. You can literally see the whole thing in 20 minutes, so just take a wander. Don’t forget to make your way out to this viewpoint north of town for the best photo ops.  

Day 4—Hallstatt—stops 1+2: Salt mines and Skywalk  

Time spent here: 2 hours + time for lunch

Take the funicular up the mountain so you can head into the salt mines— Salzwelten Hallstatt .  

Hallstatt gained its glory mainly for salt mining, are the Hallstatt Salt Mines (Salzwelten). It’s the oldest salt mine in the world with 7,000-year history. The ancient tribes were working in these mines 7,000 years ago, which means the mines are older than the Egyptian pyramids !  

The tour of the salt mines is super fun—it starts with a train ride and includes going between the individual floors on wooden slides ! You can get details of my visit to the salt mines in my Hallstatt article .  

The salt mine combination ticket ( EUR 36 ) also gets you into the second-best experience in Hallstatt—the Hallstatt Skywalk ( Welterbeblick ).  

The same Salzbergbahn funicular will take you up 838 m (2,750 ft) onto the mountain. Then, cross the suspension bridge leading to the Rudolf’s tower and right under the tower, you will see the viewpoint platform .    

Yes, the platform hangs there as if in thin air , and yes, the views are spectacular. 

If you grab lunch at Rudolfsturm Restaurant (at the aforementioned Rudolf’s Tower), you’ll be eating with the best views far and wide!  

• Hallstatt Salt Mines   
• Skywalk aka Welterbeblick  
• Open daily 9:30 am–4 pm between April and November ( check opening times for other months here ) 
• Tickets cost EUR 36 for the salt mines and funicular that takes you to both the mines and the Skywalk 

Day 4—Hallstatt—stop 3: The church and the ossuary

Time spent here : 1 hour 

On the hill a little ways over the city, the Catholic church called Pfarrkirche Mariä Himmelfahrt guards the ancient cemetery. As you can see immediately, the cemetery is rather small, so the residents decided to make an ossuary in the small chapel of St. Michael to store the remains of their ancestors .  

In the Beinhaus (the “bone house”), there are more than 1,200 skulls, and around 600 of these are hand-painted with names and ornaments.    

• The ossuary is open Wednesday to Sunday 11:30 am–3:30 pm  
• There is a EUR 1.50 entrance fee  

Day 4—Hallstatt—stop 4 : The museum and excavations

Time spent here: 1 hour 

Next, visit Hallstatt’s Welterbemuseum to learn more about its history from its salt mining days until more recent history.  

It’s a nice little museum that gives you some extra appreciation of the city. You can be in and out in 30 minutes unless you are really interested in all the exhibits.  

• Museum Hallstatt official website (German only) 
• Google Maps link  
• Open daily 10 am – 6 pm (May to September; check website for opening times in other months) 
• Tickets cost EUR 10 

Just a few steps from the museum, across the little square, there is a sport equipment store . And no, I’m not telling you to go buy tennis shoes.  There’s an   excavation site under the store !  

It was discovered by accident, when the owner of the house wanted to build a boiler room under the store. The archeologists and student from the University of Vienna were summoned to explore the site and today  you can see a number of excavation pieces and ancient walls  from different parts of Hallstatt rich history.   

It’s open daily from 9 am to 6 pm and costs absolutely nothing.  

Day 4—Hallstatt—stop 5: Boat trip on the lake  

As the evening nears, I thought it would be a nice touch to get another perspective over Hallstatt from the lake— on a boat tour .  

But skip the tourist boats and stay away from the rude boat rental places in the village center and rent your own little electric boat from this place . Yes, you yourself will be the captain, and don’t worry, it’s easy enough!  

There’s room for 4 people and the price for a 1-hour rental is EUR 27. Take cash, they don’t accept cards!  

Day 5 of itinerary for Austria: Dachstein Krippenstein

Day 5—Dachstein—stop 1: Caves  

Time spent here: 2 hours 

The entire region Hallstatt-Dachstein/Salzkammergut is on the UNESCO list as a cultural landscape , so there’s a lot to explore. 

Across the Hallstättersee from Hallstatt lies Obertraun village, and behind the village there is a large cave complex inside the Dachstein Krippenstein Mountains (a popular ski resort in the winter).  

There are several caves you can explore , so decide on a plan ahead of time so you know which cable car station to get off at.  

There is a huge Mammut cave, one of the largest karst caves in the world, the Koppenbrüller cave with an underground lake and my favorite, the Giant Ice Cave (I already covered this one in my article about 11 Top Tourist Attractions in Austria ). Roam the caves and sink in the mysterious atmosphere of the underground kingdom. 

The opening times of the caves are tied to the operation of the cable car, which rides every 15 minutes. Check ticket prices at Dachstein Krippenstein Official Websites. Prices just for the cable car start at EUR 35, tickets that also include a cave start at EUR 40.  

You can park your car at the huge parking lot by the bottom cable car station.  

Day 5—Dachstein—stop 2: 5Fingers viewing platform  

Time spent here: 30 minutes 

Continue up from the caves by cable car to reach the 5fingers viewing platform.  

Located over 400 m (1,312 ft) drop, it offers spectacular view over Hallstatt, the Hallstättersee and the mighty mountain range .   

There are 5 different fingers that you can stand in on the viewing platform.  

If you continue to hike a little further you reach the World Heritage Spiral (Welterbespirale), a  at 2,100 m (6 890 ft), you get a 360° view of the Dachstain and Salzkammergut region.  

And if it’s still not enough for you, you can choose one of the official Dachstein hiking trails .  

Day 5—Dachstein—stop 3: The other side of the mountain  

For this next bit, you’ll need to drive around to the other side of the mountain to find a different gondola. It’ll take you about 1.5 hours (it’s about 90 km/55 miles).  

Don’t be deterred by the EUR 20 toll for the last part of the road that leads to the parking lot. Just make sure you get your toll ticket validated at the cable car ticket office and then your toll will be waved.  

The views from the gondola are already stunning, but when you get to the top, it’s like a mountain Disneyland ! I mean that in the best way possible.  

In the altitude of almost 3,000 m (9,840 ft) several attractions await, one more exciting than the other. First, you can try the Sky Walk —a glass viewing platform on the top of the 250-meters (820 ft) long vertical rock face. Followed by the Suspension Bridge and the Stairway to Nothingness.  

For normal people, it's a breathtaking experience. If you fear heights, it might be a heart-attack experience .  The bridge takes you to the final 14 narrow steps down to a glass platform in the middle of nowhere, so you might feel like you’re just hovering in the air above the mountain peaks. There’s also an Ice Palace on the top, a restaurant and of course several slopes for skiing. 

The steep cable car price of EUR 47 takes you up and down Dachstein and already includes all of the attractions, so if you feel it’s too much, you need to stare out at the views some more. It’s worth it!  

In the “summer” months (May to September), it’s advised to make a gondola reservation , because the crowds that want to go up the mountain are a little too much for the capacity of the gondolas.  

Make sure to b ring warm jackets and good shoes even in the summer!  

Get detailed info on the Dachstein official website .  

Day 6 of itinerary for Austria: Between Hallstatt and Zell am See

Main sites visited on day 6 : Hohenwerfen Castle, Liechtenstein Gorge, Zell am See Restaurant tips: Seebar | Kraftwerk restaurant & winebar | Deins & Meins Hotel recommendation : Elements Resort Zell am See; BW Signature Collection Further reading : Best things to do in Zell am See | Best places in Austria

Today you’ll be changing hotels . Your base for the next 3 nights will be in Zell am See.  

The hotel I’d recommend, Elements Resort Zell am See; BW Signature Collection,   is like a cross between a cozy mountain chalet and a cool designer hotel —I say perfect!  

There’s a sauna to warm you up and a (heated) pool to cool you down just a bit.  

I’m not into self-catering if I can help it, but the Elements Resort has apartments with kitchens if you really insist on spending your vacation making your own meals. For the rest of us, the the onsite restaurant is a godsend.  

Prices start at EUR 160 per night with breakfast.  

But! Before you get to Zell am See , there’s still a ton to see. 

Day 6, stop 1: Hohenwerfen Castle   

Time spent here: 1.5–3 hours depending on the tour you choose 

Hohenwerfen is one of the must-see places in Austria for people who love medieval architecture. This mighty fortress sits on top of the hill about an hour’s drive from Hallstatt, and you don’t need to worry about getting lost as you can see it from afar.   

It’s an impressive structure in a beautiful location. Admittedly, the interior of the castle isn’t all that. What I enjoyed is the Mythos Jackl exhibition dedicated to witches’ and wizards’ history in Austria. 

Mythos Jackl is an interactive presentation with 3D holographic prisoners and many other intriguing artifacts of this gruesome era in Austrian history. Apart from the real witch cases, we enjoyed the display dedicated to Germanic/Central-European myths and mythical creatures.   

There is free parking under the hill right at the funicular station and at the beginning of the forest route leading to the castle. That’s in case you want to save EUR 3.50 for the short ride up and instead walk up to Hohenwerfen in about 20 minutes or so.  

• Hohenwerfen official website  
• Open daily except for Mondays from 9 am–anytime between 4 and 6 pm depending on the month ( details of opening times by month here ).  
• Tickets for the full tour cost EUR 17.40 including the cable car. Other prices online .  

Day 6, stop 2: Liechtenstein Gorge  

Time spent here: 2 hours  

Liechtensteinklamm aka Liechtenstein Gorge is a gorge that you go into by walking down a huge spiral staircase and then, at the end of the walk (I wouldn’t call it a hike by any means), is a waterfall. An enjoyable way to spend 1.5 hours in “civilized nature”.  

If you visit in the summer season, be prepared to share this experience with tons of other tourists. If you visit in the winter, it’ll be closed (that is November to end of April).  

The path through Liechtenstein Gorge is about 1.5 km (1 mile) long and is out-and-back.   

There is ample parking that is free of charge. It’s about 300 m (1000 ft) from the ticket desk of the gorge.  

• Liechtensteinklamm official website  
• Open daily May through end of October from 9 am to 6 pm (only until 4 pm in October). 
• Tickets cost EUR 12. 

Day 6, stop 3: Zell am See  

Time spent here : the rest of the day 

Last but not least, get yourself over to your base for the next night or two, Zell am See.   

Long story short, it has a marvelous setting. Not only that the town itself is adorable, but there are plenty of great places to see nearby. You’ll see what I mean in the next days.  

Zell am See’s Old Town is small and there’s not much to see, however, the restaurants are good and in the summer months, you can take a dip in the lake (the underwater springs make it warmer than you’d expect!).  

There are literally just three sights in the town worth mentioning, but that’s ok, since you’re done enough touristing today already.  

• The Rathaus (town hall) which resides in the former castle of Rosenberg brothers— Schloss Rosenberg —built in 1583.  
• Vogtturm (Vogt tower) Stadtmuseum: The oldest building in the town, first mentioned in 926. Nowadays, there is a four-story museum of local history and culture together with geographical exhibits.  
• The 13th-century parish church of St. Hyppolitus , richly decorated with original medieval frescoes. 

Day 7 of itinerary for Austria: Grossglockner

Main sites visited on day 7: Grossglockner High Alpine Road, glacier hike, Zell Lake boat tour, Bad Gastein for dinner Restaurant tips : La Pizzeria Napoletana | Gatz Tapas & Steaks | Moons Pub Gastein Hotel recommendation : Elements Resort Zell am See; BW Signature Collection Further reading : Best things to do in Zell am See | Best places in Austria

The main reason you’re staying in Zell am See are the gorgeous mountains all around. And today, you’re in for a special treat— G rossglockner , otherwise known as the most beautiful place in Austria (at least in my mind)!  

Day 7—Grossglockner—stop 1: High Alpine Road   

Time spent here: 1–2 hours  

The Grossglockner is the highest mountain in Austria at 3,798 m (12,461 ft).  

The High Alpine Road leads you through the mountain range at around 2,500 m (8,215 ft). For us, it was a whole-day trip, but it depends on how much you want to explore the surroundings.  

The 48 km (30 mile) scenic route starts in Bruck an der Grossglocknerstrasse and leads to Heiligenblut.  On the way, there are numerous parking lots with hiking trails leading to the most popular lakes and peaks. Or, you can just stop for photos . 

Beware the Großglockner Hochalpenstraße has opening times! Or rather that it’s closed in the winters altogether, which is generally from November to the beginning of May. You can check if the road is open on the Großglockner Hochalpenstraße official website .  

Tickets cost EUR 40 per vehicle.  

Day 7— Grossglockner— stop 2: Glacier hike  

Time spent here: 3 hours 

Now it’s time to leave your vehicle and walk. You can choose any of the hikes, but this one to the glacier is one I think is the most badass. But it’s not for couch potatoes or those not ready to scramble!  

Hike length : 6 km/3.7 miles (loop)  Hike duration : 2.5 hours  Elevation gain: 430 m/1400 ft  Difficulty: Hard 

This hike will take you from Kaiser Franz Joseph Höhe to the Pasterze, the largest glacier in the Eastern Alps. It’s not long, but it’s quite hard just due to the trail being a little hard to follow, the steep descent at the beginning and the rocks that you sometimes need to hold on to cables to get over safely.  

Read reviews on Alltrails to find tips and even some recommendations on alternate (less crazy) routes, like taking the cable car part of the way.  

You can easily park (for free) in what’s probably the most scenic parking garage I’ve ever seen. There’s also an information center there which could be useful when you’re deciding on a hiking route.  

Day 7—Zell am See—stop 3: Lake Zell boat tour  

You deserve a breather. But if you’re like me, you don’t just want to plop onto your hotel bed , you’d be missing all the amazingness out there !  

So, I’ve got a better plan for you—rest, don’t move a muscle and still explore while on a boat tour around Lake Zell . They do all the work for you, but you’re still out and about. Great, idea, right? I know, I’ll take a bow now.  

There are several ships that tour the lake, so you can be certain there’s one leaving at almost any time you’re ready. Here are the departure times and details .  

A boat tour will generally take about 45 minutes, the base price is EUR 17 for adults . On some boats, you can pay extra for a spot on the sun deck.  

Day 7—Bad Gastein—stop 4: Dinner    

Why Bad Gastein? Because this is the Alps so it’s only appropriate to have a meal in a town with a huge waterfall gushing down the middle of it !  

The villas and hotels in Bad Gastein are built on the slopes of the mountains, partly hidden in the forest, but definitely not hidden from tourists—it's a popular ski resort in the winter and hiking/spa/forest bathing (you read that right) destination in the summer.  

You’ll get a glimpse of this unique location with a [ fill in dinner of choice here ] stuffed in your mouth. 

The obvious choice here is to find a restaurant right next to the waterfall . If pizza sounds good just about now, La Pizzeria Napoletana is probably the best option in town. That little terrace on the waterfall is a winner. If you don’t feel like pizza, at least stop by for an ice cream with a view (and possibly a spray, because the water is THAT close).  

If you’re happy to swap the view for a big fat steak , head away from the falls to Gatz Tapas & Steaks.  

And if you aren’t happy until you get a cocktail, Moons Pub Gastein  has got you covered.  

If you’re intrigued by Bad Gastein, or rather it’s natural splendor, see what else I think is worth exploring in and around it in my article about my 7 favorite Austrian cities .  

Day 8 of itinerary for Austria: Kitzsteinhorn and around Kaprun

Main sites visited on day 8 : Sigmund Thun Gorge, Kitzsteinhorn and Gipfelwelt 3000, Kaprun dam Restaurant tips : Gipfel Restaurant at Kitzsteinhorn | Bergrestaurant Mooserboden at Karpun Dam Hotel recommendations : Elements Resort Zell am See; BW Signature Collection Further reading: Best things to do in Zell am See | Best places in Austria  

Day 8, stop 1: The Sigmund Thun Gorge Waterfall  

Time spent here: 2–3 hours 

The Sigmund Thun Gorge (Sigmund Thun Klamm in German) is a wonderful world of narrow zig-zag paths and walkways through the cliffs where you can admire the crystal-clear waterfalls and moss-covered stones . Just look at the photos!  

Take at least two hours to walk the route.  

The roaring river forces its way through the valley meandering and offering a magnificent view from the narrow and slippery boardwalks and bridges (proper footwear essential!). It kind of reminded me of the Hobbit barrel scene, where the dwarves escape from the elves.  

The parking lot is free of charge and is close to the visitor center.  

• Sigmund Thun Gorge official website  
• Open roughly between May and end of October, daily from either 9 or 9:30 am to 5:30 or 7 pm ( check website for exact times based on month ).  
• Tickets cost EUR 6.50 for adults 

Day 8, stop 2: Kitzsteinhorn and Gipfelwelt 3000  

Another day, another glacier! Kitzsteinerhorn Mountain is at the altitude of 3,203 m (10,508 ft) and is a landmark of the Hohe Tauern National Park (just like Grossglockner).  

The absolute top of the glacier is reserved for professional climbers, but there’s Gipfelwelt 3 000 Center at 3,029 m (9,880 ft) that has its arms wide open to tourists of all fitness levels. Even if you have a fitness level of zero, you can still come up here and stare out from the viewpoint , visit the Gipfel Restaurant and cinema. If you do have some stamina, go over to the Ice Arena.  

To get up to Kitzsteinhorn’s Gipfelwelt 3 000 , you can either take a hike up, but I’ll take a wild guess and give you the information for the cable car .  

It’s not cheap, with up-and-down tickets at EUR 50 per adult, but hey, it’s pretty up there and you’re too lazy to walk.    

Leave your car at one of the spacious parking lots (free of charge) but be ready for it to be very busy if you wait until 10 am to get there. 

Day 8, stop 2: Kaprun dam    

About 13 km (8.2 miles) further south from the Sigmund Thun Gorge lies the Kaprun Dam . 

The technical marvel is at an altitude of around 2,000 m (6,500 ft) and provides electricity for the whole Zell am See-Kaprun region. The bonus is it also looks fantastic!  

There are two mountain reservoirs, a restaurant, and plenty of hiking options . Just be mindful of the rapid elevation gain (around 1,500 m/4,900 ft) which may cause trouble with breathing or dizziness .  

Getting to Kaprun Dam is simple, but you need to board a bus. There are no cars allowed. Yikes!  

Park your car by the ticket office, from which you will be taken by bus to a huge platform that creeps up the mountain, then you’ll be stuffed onto a crowded bus once again , and then you’ll have finally reached the reservoirs at the dam. The entire journey will take about 30 minutes and cost EUR 25.   

The inclined elevator is an interesting experience by itself, the bus is more a pain, but there’s no other way.  

Or, you could take a 2-hour hike. Up to you.  

If you are so inclined, make sure to also book a tour of the power plant when you’re buying your tickets (EUR 6). 

There’s no exact timetable , but the buses leave continuously every 15 minutes or so throughout the day. 

Once at the dam, you can choose to walk a 45-minute walk on the educational trail and, whatever you do, make sure to reach this viewpoint .  

Or, if you need adrenaline to feel alive, make like Spiderman and climb the actual dam wall! The MOBO 107 via ferrata will be an experience to remember.  

Day 9 of itinerary for Austria: Between Zell am See and Innsbruck

Main sites visited on day 9 : Krimml Waterfalls, Schwaz Silver Mines, Swarovski Kristalwelten, Innsbruck  Restaurant tips : Gaia Cuisine | Akropolis | Woodfire Steak&More (all in Innsbruck) Hotel recommendations : Hotel Innsbruck   Further reading: What to see in Innsbruck  

Your final destination today is Innsbruck, but you’ll be making a couple of stops on the way to break up the 2.5-hour drive in some pretty spectacular spots. Think waterfalls, silver mines and a crystal world. 

Day 9, stop 1: Krimml Waterfalls  

Time spent there: 2.5 hours 

The first stop, at about the halfway point in the journey to Innsbruck, is none other than Europe’s tallest waterfalls — Krimml Waterfalls ( Krimmler Wasserfälle ) .  

Walk the 4 km (2.5 mile) long trail with many viewpoints and platforms leading you up to the top through the Krimml Ache Valley along the numerous waterfalls. The overall altitude gain is 431 m (1,414 ft), and the trail takes about two hours up and down . You reach the first waterfall in about 15 minutes.  

There are several parking lots near the town by the falls, so you should be able to find a spot even on the busiest days. Parking is—you guessed it—free.  

Get your tickets at the ticket desk , along with souvenirs, maps, and even food.  

• Krimml Waterfalls website  
• Krimml Waterfalls are open daily from mid-April to the end of October.  
• Tickets cost EUR 8 for adults.  

Day 9, stop 2: Schwaz Silver Mine  

Time spent here: 1.5 hours 

Another hour’s worth of driving and you arrive at the Schwaz Silver Mines, a big deal of a place where you can discover how they mined silver and copper 500 years ago. It wasn’t just a random mine—it was where 85% of the silver in the Middle Ages came from!   

The tour starts and ends with a ride on a little miners’ train , so no need to walk in and out of the depth of 800 m (2,600 ft). It feels like a claustrophobic Disneyland ride in the dark.  

You’ll get a raincoat and hardhat before you enter, but make sure you also have some warm clothes on and some proper shoes. The temperature below is 12°C (53°F) and it’s wet and slippery in parts.  

Once you leave the train, you walk around with a German-speaking guide for about an hour. If you nicht sprechen Deutch, you can download their app for English explanations, but definitely bring headphones .  

Guides are great, but the ladies at the ticket desk can be a bit of a mood-buster . You can avoid dealing with them if you book your ticket online .  

Overall, I would’ve loved more details on the technology back then, but maybe that’s just me. If you have 1.5 hours to spend walking around in a damp underground tunnel, go for it.  

There’s a silver shop where you can get something for your grandma back home.  

Tours keep going throughout the day based on how many people are interested, so you might have to wait a while either because there are too many people or not enough people.  

• Schwaz Silver Mine official website  
• Open daily 9 am–5 pm during May to September, 10 am–4 pm in other months. Tours leave every 30 to 60 minutes throughout the day.  
• Tickets cost EUR 18 (or EUR 20 online) 

Day 9, stop 3: Swarovski Kristalwelten  

Time spent there: 2 hours minimum 

Experiencing this Swarovski wonderland is like taking Alice in Wonderland and blinging her up !  

This place is a stark contrast to the silver mines you just visited. Everything is beautiful, magical, mesmerizing and clean! No damp tunnels at the Swarovski Kristalwelten!    

So what is this place? Yes, it’s a big Swarovski store, but it’s also an indoor and outdoor exhibition space that any fancy man or woman will enjoy and leave with a twinkle in their eye.  

The gardens and the 18 Chambers of Wonder were put together by internationally recognized artists and architects. The centerpiece is the Giant spitting out water, but you can also hop on a carousel if you’re head is spinning from all the glitz and you need to sit down for a bit. Wait, that won’t help...  

Obviously, there are crystals everywhere , and I date you to leave without buying yourself something shiny.  

Parking is free of charge. Audio guides are available in many languages. Get your tickets online to avoid lines at the ticket desk (especially if visiting on a weekend).  

• Swarovski Kristalwelten official website  
• Open daily 9 am–6 pm 
• Tickets cost EUR 23 + EUR 2 for audio guide 

Day 9, stop 4: Innsbruck  

After getting your bling on at Swarovski, you’re just a 15-minute drive to your last overnight stop on this 10-day Austria itinerary:  Innsbruck, also known as my second-favorite city in Austria .  

After the long day you’ve had, especially if you managed to visit every spot I recommended, you’re probably ready to call it a day and hit the hotel bar. OR, get naked and hit the rooftops!   

…let me explain:  

Hotel Innsbruck, which is where I stayed and would stay again, has a nude area in its Panorama Wellness with huge windows and even a sun terrace with views over the roofs of Innsbruck’s Old Town. So throw away your worries and your undies and take your first peek at Innsbruck in your birthday suit!  

The only slight nuisance here is that unless you grab a reservation for the limited parking spots in the hotel garage you need to park in the public parking garages. Granted, they’re only like 3 minutes away on foot, but I thought I’d mention it so you aren’t surprised. You can unload your luggage at the hotel before heading to the garage.  

Otherwise, Hotel Innsbruck was the perfect spot to explore the city from.  

Prices start at EUR 200 per night with breakfast.  

Exploring Innsbruck’s Old Town  

If you’re the type that tirelessly explores every destination and you don’t want to give up on the day just yet, take a stroll through Old Town, either before or after your evening in Hotel Innsbruck’s amazing spa and pool area.  

Check out my article dedicated to all things Innsbruck to read up on what there is to see. The Stadtturm (tower) is right around the corner from the hotel, as is the Golden Roof . And also a Swarovski store, just in case you’re wondering if you should’ve bought that other necklace at Swarovski Kristalwelten.  

I love Innsbruck because there isn't stupid Baroque everywhere. The streets of Innsbruck Old Town are filled with medieval houses and surrounded by majestic alpine landscape , and that’s something hard to beat.    

Across the river from the Old Town lies Mariahilfestrasse with the famous colorful houses . The photo of the houses clutched between the river Inn and the mountains is a must-have in Innsbruck.  

Day 10 of itinerary for Austria: James Bond Museum 

Main sites visited on day 10: 007 Elements Restaurant tips : Restaurant ice Q | Restaurant Ad Vinum Hotel recommendations: Hotel Innsbruck Further reading: What to see in Innsbruck | Know Before You Go: Austria | Vienna 3 day itinerary  

Day 10, stop 1: 007 Elements (Museum of James Bond)  

Time spent here: 3 hours plus time for lunch 

It’s the last day on this Austria itinerary, and you’ll be heading out even further from Vienna! Sound like a excruciating drive back to the capital? You’re right! But it’s a high-tech James Bond museum inside a mountain summit—you can and will do this!   

Drive a little less than 1.5 hours from Innsbruck to Sölden and visit the James Bond Museum called 007 Elements. You leave your car at the parking garage at the base of the Gaislachkogl Mountain and then take the gondola up the mountain .  

You’re surely bought your combination ticket online in advance , so you already have your ride up and down paid for. Just make sure to allow 30 minutes for the gondola ride so you get to 007 Elements in your time slot.  

The cinematic installation takes you through the major moments of James Bond movies, with special emphasis on Spectre , which was shot at Sölden.  

It might sound random, but it’s a must-see stop for fans of classy cars and badass agents . You will see how the tricks in the movie were done, an exhibition dedicated to action scenes, the hall of James Bond’s legacy, and more in a total of 9 exhibition rooms. All are superbly well done, it really is a cool place. You’ll need 2 hours to enjoy everything. 

When you’re ready for lunch, head to the on-site Restaurant ice Q . The food is delicious, the view is breathtaking... and so is the bill.   

• 007 Elements official website  
• Open daily 
• Combination ticket (museum + gondola) costs EUR 54 

If you’re heading back to Vienna today, get ready for the 6-hour minimum drive if you’re going from Sölden. If you have extra time, just stay another night in Hotel Innsbruck so you have more time to explore this amazing Alpine city and shorten your drive to the capital to a doable 5 hours.  

Driving in Austria 

While it may pay off to travel by public transport in the big cities (especially if you have a city card), it can turn into a nightmare in the country areas. Renting a car is a great way to make the most out of Austria. The views are breathtaking and if you have a car, you can easily see the whole of Austria in just a few days. That is particularly relevant in the mountain areas , where it might be complicated to travel by public transport. However… 

Driving in Austria can be a nightmare. Not that the roads aren’t in good condition or anything—they are. Even the signs are well posted. But I’ve been driving in South Africa and it was much more disciplined there!  

Austrian drivers are madmen amd are always driving in the left lane even though they know it serves for overtaking. However, to my big surprise, they do respect the speed limit (which I tend to forget about sometimes). 

What are speed limits in Austria?  

• In towns: 50 km/h (31 mph) 
• Country roads: 100 km/h (62 mph) 
• Highways: 130 km/h (80 mph) 

Also remember that in Austria, they drive on the right side and wearing a seatbelt is required by law . 

I’m doing personal research on driving in different destinations (because I always rent a car wherever I travel, with the small exception of Belgium ). Here are some of my findings:  

• Driving in Scotland  
• Driving in Mexico  
• Driving in Peru  

  This post contains affiliate links. I earn a small commission if you make bookings through my links, at no additional cost to you. This helps keep this blog free, thank you!      

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Thoughts? Give us a shout!

Hi! I’m Jan. I live in Prague, Czech Republic. I try to experience the best the world has to offer, and I don’t cease to be impressed. But if I’m not, I’m sure going to tell you! You can count on my full honesty and real opinions here. No bullcrap. I own and run several companies, which gives me great (but not unlimited) freedom to roam the world.  

I was first inspired to start this blog by my own experience of researching for upcoming trips—I often struggle with a lack of good information, accuracy, and authenticity of resources. You wouldn’t believe how many “travel bloggers” don’t even visit the destinations they write about! 

My goal with this blog is to provide you with complex and practical information so that you can plan your own vacation, complete with insights you’d only get if you visited the place. I also put together itineraries that are fully planned out trip guides.

Another aspect that drives this platform is my curiosity about the history, geography, politics, and economy of each country I visit, so I try to include this information in my articles, too. It’s always great to get the bigger picture, right? 

And just to be clear, I am not trying to compete with backpacking blogs or provide hacks for an economical and affordable experience. My vacations follow the standard pattern of traveling by plane, staying in good hotels, and renting a car on the spot to get around. I’m also always up for a fantastic meal, though I don’t shy away from local delicacies and street food, either.  

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Epic Austria Road Trip: 7, 10, 14 Days In Austria [2024]

• Post author: Nicoletta
• Reading time: 87 mins read
• Post last modified: January 26, 2024
• Post comments: 18 Comments

Austria is a hidden gem of Central Europe. Most travelers head to Switzerland or the Dolomites, but Austria also deserves more attention.

I spent 3 years living and traveling around Austria while studying at the University in Salzburg. So, I’ve created this road trip for you from a local’s perspective to explore this beautiful country’s hidden gems. It has  adventure , interesting  history and culture ,  picturesque towns , and  stunning nature .

So, take this Austria road trip itinerary and have the best experience in Austria.

✈ Travel Resources For Your Trip ✈

Here are some of my favorite travel resources I use for my travel adventures.

Overview Of The Austria Road Trip For 10 Days

Here is an overview of what you can expect from this Austria itinerary each day:

Austria Road Trip Map

Here is a map of this Austrian road trip itinerary. Follow it so you don’t miss any highlights.

How To Get To Austria: Where To Start This 10-Day Austrian Road Trip

Our road trip through Austria starts in the capital city of Vienna.

It has great international connections, and the best way to reach the city is to fly to Vienna International Airport (Schwechat).

Vienna often has the best flight connections, and I always fly there, even when I go to visit my family in Slovakia .

➡ Check out great flight deals via Skyscanner here.

How To Get To Vienna City Center From The Airport

You can get to the city center from Vienna Airport via high-speed train Cat , regular train S-Bahn , or a taxi/private shuttle .

The Cat high-speed train will only take you to the center in 15 minutes. It’s slightly more expensive (22 EUR) than the regular train but much faster and more convenient.

There are also regular S-trains connecting the airport to the city center of Vienna, which takes about 40 minutes and costs between 4 EUR to 8 EUR.

Or you can book this private shuttle from the airport directly to the hotel for the most convenient journey.

A taxi ride from the airport to Vienna center costs approximately 40 EUR and takes about 20 minutes, depending on the traffic.

Getting To Vienna Austria By Train

If you’re arriving in Vienna from a nearby European destination such as Prague, Berlin, or Budapest, you can also take a train.

The national Austrian railway is called OBB , and it has great connections to neighbouring countries. My favorite train is Railjet . So, if you’re booking a train to Vienna, look for this one.

➡ Book your train ticket to Vienna via Trainline for the best deals.

Getting To Vienna Austria By Bus

Alternatively, you can take a bus if you’re on a budget . The main bus connections to Vienna are with Flixbus . If you’re arriving from the Czech Republic , you can also book a Regiojet bus (or train).

➡ Check out the best bus connections to Vienna by clicking here.

How To Get Around Austria & Make This Itinerary

The best way to explore Austria is by car . That’s why this itinerary is designed as a road trip .

Austria has many hidden gems that are hardly reachable by trains or buses. While it’s doable, taking public transportation often takes more time and doesn’t give you as much flexibility.

That’s why I recommend renting a car and making this Austrian road trip. You’ll need to rent it for 8 days , starting on day 3 to complete the entire itinerary.

You can rent a car and get the best deals by clicking on the box below:

RENT A CAR FOR YOUR ITINERARY

Rent A Car Via Discover Cars – best prices and big selection of car rentals. PRO TIP: Check ratings of the company you choose before booking ( ratings can be off ). Go on Google, see ratings of the car rental company, then book on Discover Cars.

0. DAY: ARRIVE IN VIENNA

At the beginning of our Austria itinerary, we’ll explore its capital, Vienna. This is a city full of history. It was the main residence of the Habsburg dynasty, a royal place with charm and elegance.

We’ll explore  Princess Sisi’s apartments  and beautiful gardens of  Schonbrunn Palace , taste traditional  Austrian desserts , and immerse ourselves in classical music.

Vienna was also named the  most liveable city  on the planet in 2022. It has a unique charm, so let’s go and experience it.

Where To Stay In Vienna: My TOP TIPS For Accommodation

PRIVATE CENTRAL VIENNA Self Check-In – budget-friendly hotel STEIGENBERGER HOTEL HERRENHOF – mid-range hotel HOTEL IMPERIAL LUXURY COLLECTION – luxury hotel

Travel Itinerary Planning Services

1. day: vienna.

Good morning to Vienna. Today, you’ll have a full day in the city to explore its highlights.

Let’s start with an amazing museum, then see the  Sisi’s apartments  and the Habsburg Dynasty’s residences.

After, we’ll enjoy the Austrian atmosphere in a local market with fresh and delicious specialties in the evening.

Sightseeing In Vienna

🔅 Hofburg Palace 🔅 Vienna Natural History Museum 🔅 Esperanto Museum 🔅 St. Stephen’s Cathedral 🔅 Naschmarkt 🔅 Evening Performance At Opera House

🔅 Hofburg Palace

Hofburg Palace is where the  Habsburg dynasty  spent most of its wintertime for over 600 years. The complex dates back to the  13th century  and, until 1918, was a  residence to many Emperors , who continuously extended it.

Nowadays, its premises serve as  offices for the Austrian federal president . You’ll see the  Sisi Museum  and learn about her inspiring life. It displays over  300 personal items  of Empress Elisabeth and the dresses she used to wear.

You’ll also visit the  Imperial Apartments  and learn more about  her life and marriage  with Emperor Franz Joseph.

➡ Get skip-the-line tickets to Hofburg Palace & Sisi Museum here.

🔅 Vienna Natural History Museum

I’m not a big  museum fan , but occasionally, I visit one. It must be that I genuinely feel it’ll be a good experience, or somebody tells me to visit it.

The  Natural History Museum in Vienna  was one of the surprising ones. I highly recommend you to see it. It has various  natural elements  inside, from fauna to flora, minerals, rocks, and stones to natural wonders.

Don’t forget to check out the  digital planetarium . It’s really unique. You can book tickets on the spot (admission is free for those who are less than 19 years old).

🔅 Esperanto Museum

Learn about Esperanto in the center of Vienna. We, travel and language enthusiasts, seek opportunities to learn languages or something about them while we are traveling.

Esperanto is an  artificial language ; here, you can experience more about it and  how it was created . And the  admission is free .

🔅 St. Stephen’s Cathedral

The  symbol of Vienna , St. Stephen’s Cathedral, has much to tell about the history. In fact, it  survived World War II .

Let yourself take some time to admire its  unique, dazzling roof . It has over  230,000 glazed tiles  formed into various patterns.

One of the most important is the symbol of a  double-headed eagle , the  symbol of the Austrian Empire  when Habsburgs ruled it.

🔅 Naschmarkt

Experience  authentic local life  on the Naschmarkt, get some nice food, and make new Austrian friends.

It’s a 1.5 km street market , where you’ll find anything from fresh fruits and vegetables to seafood and meat, and even some tiny restaurants. Take a seat and  enjoy delicious food  with a glass of local wine.

➡ Book a food tour through Naschmarkt with a local here.

🔅 Evening Performance At Opera House

If you like performances, check some in the Opera House. Dress up nicely and enjoy the evening watching a spectacle or listening to opera in Vienna’s Opera House.

You can find available performances and tickets on the official site of the  Vienna Opera House .

Other popular spots to enjoy a  concert  in Vienna are  Musikverein or Karlskirche  (Karl’s Church). So you can also check out these concerts and book one if you like.

👉 READ ALSO: Christmas In Austria: Full Guide With Traditions & Best Places

2. DAY: VIENNA & SCHÖNBRUNN PALACE

Spare your second day exploring one of the most beautiful palaces in Europe , or join a guided tour to learn more about the city.

You’ll have another full day to explore Vienna . So, get the most out of it.

🔅 Schönbrunn Palace 🔅 Cafe Residenz: traditional Apple Strudel preparation 🔅 Prater Amusement Park 🔅 Vienna Guided Tour

🔅 Schönbrunn Palace

This  1441-room Baroque Palace  is one of the most significant buildings in Austria. Built in the 1700s by  Empress Maria Theresa , it’s where many Austrian emperors were born.

It also used to be  the Habsburgs’ main summer residence . Check out the  Mirror Rooms , where  Mozart gave his first concert  when he was only six.

After, spend some time in its  splendid gardens  and feel the royal atmosphere. See the  Great Parterre  at the end of the gardens and take your time to walk further up to the  Gloriette  on the hill, where you’ll get  amazing views  of the Schönbrunn Palace.

💡 NOTE: There are always huge and long lines waiting for the tickets, so I highly recommend getting a skip-the-line ticket not to waste your time.

➡ Get skip-the-line tickets for your Schönbrunn + gardens visit here .

🔅 Café Residenz: Traditional Apple Strudel Preparation

Watch how Habsburgs prepared the  authentic Apple Strudel  and eat it as they did it with your afternoon tea.

Visit the Café Residenz, where it has been baked for centuries now. This is where you’ll  get the best traditional Apple Strudel , an Austrian dessert dish. You can also take this  traditional recipe  with you.

💡 PRO TIP: Get it written in German and practice your German language skills following my method. Take the recipe and try to bake the Apple Strudle at home, following it in the German language.

➡ If you want to learn how to prepare Apple Strudel , join this cooking class , where you’ll make Austrian Schnitzel and Apple Strudel with a local.

🔅 Prater Amusement Park

It used to be a hunting ground once, which evolved into a huge amusement park with many roller coasters, stands, a lot of fun, and adventure in the middle of the Austrian capital.

Enjoy a nice afternoon, seeing Vienna from the top of a roller coaster. You can buy tickets on the spot .

🔅 Vienna Guided Tour

If you like guided walking tour and want to learn more about the history and culture of Austrian capital, I recommend one of the following tours :

3. DAY: WINE TASTING IN WACHAU REGION

Today, we’ll make a  day trip from Vienna  to taste local wine and delicacies in the nearby Wachau region. I suggest these two options: 

• Wachau Valley Day Tour With Wine Tasting
• Grape Grazing With A Biking Tour

With both, you’ll experience one of the most beautiful  Austrian regions , its  history  and  culture , visit the  best family-owned wineries , and  taste local products .

One is a  biking tou r, and the other offers a  cruise on the River Danube .

With both of them,  you’ll get a guide  and be a part of a small group of amazing people.

Below, I’m giving you a short description of both guided tours so you can decide which one suits you better.

1. TOUR: Wachau Valley With Wine Tasting + Cruise On The River Danube

On the Wachau Wine Tasting Tour , enjoy the diversity of the Lower Austria region with its beautiful  Danube valley , UNESCO heritage sites, and the  best wine yards of Austria . Visit  3 different areas  and learn about the  history  of the Wachau valley.

Explore the town of  Dürnstein , which belongs to the UNESCO World Heritage, and enjoy the  cruise from Spitz to Melk on the Danube River .

In between, we’ll stop in  local wineries  to taste local wine with delicious regional specialties.

2. TOUR: Grape Grazing – Wachau Valley Winery Biking Tour

You can also take the  biking tour through Wachau , biking in the region and visiting the top wineries on the way.

You’ll  visit small family-owned wineries , learn about the history and culture of this region, explore  Dürnstein  (the UNESCO World Heritage Site), jump into the  River Danube , and refresh yourself a bit.

Enjoy your day in the Wachau region and immerse yourself in the Austrian culture. I’m sure you’ll love it.

Afterward, get some good sleep because tomorrow, we’ll drive towards even more beautiful Austrian regions.

💡 NOTE: From now on, you’ll have to rent a car for the Austrian road trip. So rent a car in Vienna for 8 days , and start driving on day 3 of this itinerary. You can do so today in the evening, or tomorrow morning.

4. DAY: VIENNA ⇒ GMUNDEN & TRAUN LAKE ⇒ ST. WOLFGANG

Today, we’ll continue our tour of Austria, driving from the capital city of Vienna to the spectacular  Salzkammergut region , full of  crystal-clear lakes  and beautiful mountains.

It’ll take us 3 hours 30 minutes to reach our destination.

Distance Vienna ⇒ Gmunden: 2 hours and 40 minutes by car (236 km/146 miles)

Stop in Gmunden on the way, visiting Austria’s deepest lake – Traun Lake , 191 m/626 feet deep.

Gmunden & Gisela Steamboat

Gmunden has a charming town center with small cafes, so enjoy some of them. After, hop on the  Gisela boat  and enjoy the amazing drive on Lake Traun. Gisela is  one of the oldest paddle steamboats in the world , constructed in 1871.

Then hop on the car again and drive slightly further.

On the way further, stop the car near  Toscana Park  and check out the  Seeschloss Ort , a small chateau built on the lake, accessible by a wooden bridge.

It’s stunning with its beautiful scenery.

After, hop on the car again and drive to our destination today.

First, you’ll drive along Traun Lake, then through  Bad Ischl , and eventually reach another famous Lake and the main town,  St. Wolfgang Im Salzkammergut .

Distance Gmunden ⇒ St. Wolfgang Im Salzkammergut : 50 minutes by car (50 km/31 miles)

Once you arrive, stroll through the town, have a delicious Austrian dinner, and rest well. Tomorrow, we have another exciting day ahead of us.

Where To Stay In St. Wolfgang Im Salzkammergut: My TOP TIPS For Accommodation

WOLF & SCHAF APARTMENTS – budget-friendly apartments HOTEL PETER – mid-range hotel LAKE VIEW APARTMENT – luxury apartment at the lakeside

5. DAY: ST. WOLFGANG ⇒ SALZBURG

Good morning to the stunning  Salzkammergut region  of Austria. Today, we are going to visit the most beautiful town in Austria – Salzburg.

Schafberg Mountain & St. Wolfgang Lake

But before, take your time to explore the  St. Wolfgang Lake  &  Schafberg mountain .

First thing in the morning, I recommend taking a funicular train to the Schafberg mountain (it leaves from the city center of St. Wolfgang town). The mountain offers breathtaking views of the entire region.

👉 READ ALSO: 11 Amazing Day Trips From Salzurg (incl. description of the Schafberg Mountain)

After, you can also cruise on Lake St. Wolfgang . Check the cruise timetable before and plan it accordingly. You can pay for the boat trip on the spot at the pier.

Drive To Salzburg

Later, you can continue to Salzburg. Check-in to your accommodation and start exploring.

Distance St. Wolfgang Lake ⇒ Salzburg: 51 minutes by car (48 km/30 miles)

Enjoy your evening and first impressions of Salzburg. Have dinner, and after, go on a short walk alongside the Salzach River – it’s super romantic.

Where To Stay In Salzburg: My TOP TIPS For Accommodation

JUFA HOTEL SALZBURG CITY – budget-friendly accommodation BOUTIQUE HOTEL AM DOME – mid-range hotel in the Old Town HOTEL SACHER – luxury hotel at the Salzach River

👉 READ ALSO: Where To Stay In Salzburg: Best Areas & Hotels For Each Traveler

6. DAY: SALZBURG

Good morning to Salzburg, the most beautiful Austrian city. I’m not even biased (I hope); I lived in Salzburg for 3 years during my University studies, and it’s truly a gem of Austria. I’m sure you’ll love it.

I have prepared a little  Salzburg itinerary  for you in a separate post, so check it out and follow it. It’s spread into 2 days, but you can easily see everything in Salzburg within a day .

Don’t forget to try all the delicacies and soak up the atmosphere of this unique Austrian city.

7. DAY: SALZBURG ⇒ HALLEIN SALT MINES ⇒ HALLSTATT

As I mentioned to you in my article about Salzburg’s walking tour , there are many options for day trips from Salzburg. These day trips are super unique, with beautiful nature, picturesque towns, and salt mines. For our itinerary, I’ve chosen the top day trips from Salzburg.

Let’s explore these places today.

Distance Salzburg ⇒ Bad Dürrnberg (Salt Mines Hallein): 20 minutes by car (20 km/12 miles)

Salt Mines Hallein

In the morning, we’re going back to the Celtic times, visiting the Celtic village with  salt mines in Dürrnberg , near  Hallein , Salzburg region.

Drive up to Dürrnberg  and enjoy the remote atmosphere of this small place.

The German word  ‘Salz’  means  salt . Salt used to be very important for the entire Salzburg region. The  River Salzach  was the  main trade route between Salzburg and Venice , Italy. That’s why the city has the word salt in it.

One of the locations where the  salt is produced  in this region is the mountain  Dürnberg.  You can’t miss visiting them on this itinerary. Let’s learn the  history of salt mining in the Salzburg region  and how important it was to this place.

Walk through the  64 km-long tunnels  inside the mines. Explore the history of salt mining and the importance it brought to the entire Salzburg region. You’ll also have a lot of  fun sledding inside the salt mines .

You can buy tickets on the spot.

After the tour of the salt mines, let’s drive further to the picturesque village, which is very famous in Austria.

It’s a pretty touristy spot, but how would that be visiting Austria and not including Hallstatt town in our itinerary?

Distance Bad Dürrnberg ⇒ Hallstatt: 1 hour & 15 minutes by car (66 km/41 miles)

This little Celtic village became a UNESCO WORLD Heritage Site in 1997. Hallstatt is more than 7000 years old and is one of the  highlights  of Austria’s famous Salzkammergut region.

Many say it’s  one of Europe’s oldest still inhabited places . It’s also home to the  oldest salt mine  in the world.

Park your car and let the small walking tour of Hallstatt begin.

Take your time to stroll through its tiny streets without using Google Maps .

Just walk anywhere your legs take you; don’t fear getting lost. It’s so much fun, and you’ll explore many interesting things in this charming village.

Don’t miss the best  INSTAGRAM SPOT  from  Gosaumühlstrasse , which is only 5 minutes from the town center.

You might also see the  swans on the Lake Hallstatt . These swans weren’t always here. In fact, the  Austrian Empress Sisi imported them  here when she was on her vacation in Hallstatt.

💡 Sisi loved swans , and as she couldn’t imagine the stunning views of the Lake and mountains around without them, she decided to bring them here.

Hallstatt Skywalk

After, go to the Hallstatt Skywalk. It is a nice  1-hour hike  from the town center. Enjoy the spectacular scenery of Lake Hallstatt, surrounded by beautiful mountains and Austria’s entire  Dachstein region .

Alternatively, you can take a  panorama funicular , which will take you up to  10 minutes .

I want to point out that Hallstatt is very touristy , and I by myself often avoid these places as they lose their charm.

It’s worth seeing, but if you want to skip it and visit anything else on this day, check out my article about the 11 amazing day trips from Salzburg . Visit the Hallein Salt Mines in the morning and explore something else.

Come to Hallstatt in the evening when all the tourists are gone.

Where To Stay In Hallstatt: My TOP TIPS For Accommodation

PENSION CAFE ZUM MUHLBACH – budget-friendly accommodations POLREICH B&B – mid-range accommodation at the lake BOUTIQUE HOTEL STRAND HALLSTATT – luxury hotel at the lake

8. DAY: WERFEN & GIANT ICE CAVES ⇒ ZELL AM SEE

Another natural beauty awaits us today on our Austrian road trip.

Let’s get on a real adventure today, visiting the  world’s largest ice cave complex , which is accessible for tours. The place is officially called  Eisriesenwelt Werfen .

In the morning,  drive to Werfen  to experience the incredible ice caves. Don’t forget to  bring extra layers of clothes  for this excursion. We are going to be walking through the ice.

Distance Hallstatt ⇒ Eisriesenwelt Werfen Parking: 1 hour & 6 minutes by car (60 km/37 miles)

Giant Ice Caves

Enjoy the 70-minute exploration of  Giant Ice Caves near Werfen (Eisriesenwelt Werfen) . Take a cable car near Dr. Oedl-Haus and let yourself be blown away by the ice cave world up in the mountains.

This is the  largest ice cave complex in the world , so don’t miss out on it. Especially on a sunny day, you’ll get amazing views of the entire Salzach valley.

👉 You have to book entrance tickets to the Ice Caves beforehand.

Be aware that the Giant Ice Caves are closed in winter , from late October until May. So plan your visit in the summertime.

Werfen Castle

After, head to explore the stunning Werfen Castle.

Prince Archibishop started building this castle to protect his holdings from King Henry IV of Germany. It sits  above the River Salzach , an important trade route in the past.

Werfen castle is also famous for being  featured in many movies  and TV shows, such as Clint Eastwood’s Where Eagles Dare to the Call of Duty and the famous Sound of Music.

You can buy entrance tickets to the castle on the spot.

💡 NOTE: It was the meadow near Werfen castle , where Von Trap’s children with Maria ran down singing the song Do-Re-Mi .

Zell am See

After your excursions, I recommend you drive further to the beautiful Zell am See region , where you can stay overnight.

Zell am See is a charming Austrian town famous for its hiking trails , skiing slopes , and great vacation spots.

Distance Werfen ⇒ Zell am See: 55 minutes by car (57 km/35 miles)

Paragliding In Zell Am See

Zell Am See is a picturesque town with stunning views of the Alps. I recommend soaking up the atmosphere and walking around the lake. Take some time to relax.

If you need some more adventure, it’s also one of the best spots for paragliding in Austria. So book this paragliding experience and enjoy the breathtaking views of the area:

Where To Stay In Zell Am See: My TOP TIPS For Accommodation

CHALET DER BICHLHOF – budget-friendly apartments ALPIN DAS SPORTHOTEL – mid-range hotel SENSES VIOLETT SUITES – luxury apartments

9. DAY: GROSSGLOCKNER HIGH ALPINE ROAD ⇒ CRYSTAL WORLDS ⇒  INNSBRUCK ⇒ AQUA DOME (LÄNGENFELD)

Today, we continue our itinerary, driving to the magical atmosphere of Tyrol in Austria .

It might seem like we have a lot scheduled , but it’s manageable. You can skip the Crystal Worlds Swarovski or some activities in Innsbruck to make it all.

But what you can’t miss is driving through Austria’s most scenic road – the Grossglockner High Alpine Road.

It’s a bit of a detour from Zell Am See, but it doesn’t matter because it’s worth it .

Grossglockner High Alpine Road

So in the morning, drive from Zell Am See via the Grossglockner High Alpine Road to Crystal Worlds Swarovski or directly to Innsbruck.

Grossglockner is the highest mountain in Austria (3798 m/12460 feet). It was inaccessible to get closer to a road until they built the beautiful 48-km long road in 1935, now famous as the Grossglockner High Alpine Road .

You’ll be driving through the Hohe Tauern National Park, which undoubtedly has some of the most breathtaking scenery in Austria. So take your time and enjoy.

You can drive it starting in Zell Am See direction Lienz . Then, change to the road leading to Mittersill and continue driving towards Innsbruck.

👉 NOTE: The Grossglockner High Alpine Road is closed in the winter . Check the road status on the official website before driving.

Distance Zell am See ⇒ Grossglockner High Alpine Road ⇒ Swarovski Crystal Words: approx. 3.5 hours by car (150 km/93 miles)

Swarowski Kristallwelten – Wattens

Before visiting Innsbruck, you can stop at the famous  Swarovski Crystal Worlds in Watten . Learn something about crystals and then continue to the picturesque city of Innsbruck.

Visit the museum and art gallery of Swarovski Crystal Worlds, one of the most famous companies founded by Daniel Swarovski in 1895.

See the  17 chambers showcasing beautiful crystal art .

Get a skip-the-line ticket to the Swarovski Crystal Worlds by clicking on the image below:

After the excursion of Swarovski Crystal Worlds, continue to Innsbruck.

Distance Swarowski Kristallwelten ⇒ Innsbruck: 20 minutes by car (19 km/12 miles)

Welcome to Innsbruck, the  Capital of the Alps . The city is located at the  foot of the Tyrolean Alps  on the River Inn.

Inn is the name of the river it sits on, and the location perfectly reflects its name- and  ‘Brücke’  in German means a  bridge .

So this city is a beautiful  bridge on the River Inn . Let’s explore its hidden gems.

Sightseeing In Innsbruck

Pick a few sights you want to explore in Innsbruck from this list. I’ve described them all below, but you don’t have to visit everything .

You can also just walk around the city, see the Golden Roof , enjoy the river, and then head to Aqua Dome as soon as possible to enjoy its thermal springs.

🔅 Golden Roof 🔅 Stadturm – City Tower 🔅 Walk Alongside River Inn 🔅 Top of Innsbruck (Nordkette) 🔅 Hungenburg Funicular 🔅 Bergisel Ski Jump 🔅 Alpen Zoo

🔅 Golden Roof

The Golden Roof is a symbol of festivities that were celebrated on the square below the roof. It was built in 1496 to commemorate the  marriage of Emperor Maximilian I.  to Bianca Maria Sforza.

🔅 Stadtturm – City Tower

Climb the  148 stairs  until you reach the top of City Tower and get beautiful city views.

➡ Get tickets to the City Tower here.

🔅 Walk Alongside River Inn

Take a walk alongside the crystal-clear River Inn and enjoy the atmosphere of Tirol.

🔅 Top Of Innsbruck (Nordkette)

If you want to explore the ultimate views of the Alps around Innsbruck, make an excursion to the Top of Innsbruck.

Take a cable car up and walk around for a while. Have lunch, and come back to Innsbruck. It’s incredible.

➡ Get tickets to the Top of Innsbruck here.

🔅 Hungenburg Funicular

Hop on the Huhenburg funicular, which will take you to the  Alpine Garden . You’ll drive through a tunnel, on the bridge over the River Inn, and get other great city views.

➡ Get tickets for the Hugenburg funicular train here.

🔅 Bergisel Ski Jump

Innsbruck is also famous for its ski jump, which brought  the Olympic Games  to the city in 1964 and 1976. Walk around the area and get to see the ski jump in real.

You’ll get other stunning views of the city and the mountains around.

🔅 Alpen Zoo

If you want, you can also visit Europe’s highest-altitude Zoo in Innsbruck.

Overall, I think 3 to 4 hours is enough to explore the city. Just walk through the city center and enjoy its atmosphere. Have some meal before driving to your hotel.

➡ Get tickets to the Alpen Zoo (incl. Hungenburg Funicular train) here.

Drive To Aqua Dome In Längenfeld

I don’t recommend you stay overnight in Innsbruck. We are in Austria, and we should  enjoy its nature  and beauty.

Therefore, I suggest you drive south today and stay in one of  Austria’s famous wellness resorts  in the heart of Ötztal Alps, Aqua Dome .

The resort also has the only thermal springs in Western Austria, and it’s fabulous.

Distance Innsbruck ⇒ Längenfeld (Aqua Dome): 1 hour by car (75 km/46 miles)

Where To Stay Near Innsbruck: My TOP TIP For Accommodation

AQUA DOME – LÄNGENFELD – including entrance to the thermal springs

10. DAY: AQUA DOME ⇒ WHITEWATER RAFTING ⇒ BREGENZ

Good morning to the beautiful Austrian Alps . Today, you can also stay the entire day in Aqua Dome, enjoy the spa facilities, go hiking or walking in the area, and stay one more night.

If you don’t want to spend an extra night, feel free to continue our itinerary :). 

Whitewater Rafting

Tyrol is specifically known for its great  whitewater rafting spots . And I’ve found a great one to experience it. This rafting adventure is 14-km long, starts in Imst and ends in Roppen .

Rafting is so much fun, and I highly recommend you do it. If you’re staying an additional day in Aqua Dome, do it that day.

If not, just  do it in the morning  once you check out from Aqua Dome before heading to Bregenz. Or skip rafting and head to Bregenz after checking out from Aqua Dome.

Rafting is an unforgettable experience . You don’t have to be afraid; it’s easy and fun.

➡ Book rafting via this website and get further instructions for starting point, etc.

This marks the last day of our road trip. We’ll end our journey on the border with Germany and Switzerland so that you can continue exploring other amazing countries.

But first, drive to Europe’s  third largest freshwater lake , Constance Lake and Bregenz.

Distance Längenfeld (Aqua Dome) ⇒ Bregenz: 2 hours by car (164 km/101 miles)

Bregenz & Constance Lake

Welcome to Bregenz , a small city next to the borders of Germany and Switzerland . It’s a perfect place to finish your itinerary and continue your journey to the bordering countries.

Bregenz has that vacation feeling, thanks to Lake Constance. It’s the third-largest freshwater Lake in Europe. You can  go kayaking  on it, ride a boat, and walk alongside the lake on the promenade. You can also take bikes and  bike on the promenade  around it.

It’s a nice place to chill and reflect on your Austrian trip and everything you’ve seen.

Visit Pfänder

Besides enjoying Lake Constance and doing many activities there, you can also go to Pfänder. 

Take a cable car  up to the mountains and enjoy the stunning view of Lake Constance and the Alps rising behind it. There are many  hiking trails  you can enjoy and also a restaurant. 

You can buy tickets for the Pfänder cable car on the spot.

Where To Stay In Bregenz: My TOP TIPS For Accommodation

JUFA HOTEL BREGENZ – budget-friendly accommodation ZENTRALES APARTMENT PFÄNDERBLICK – mid-range apartments SEEBLICK BREGENZ – luxury apartments

7-Day Road Trip In Austria

If you only have a week to explore Austria on a road trip, here is what I recommend.

Take my basic 10-day Austrian itinerary and shorten it based on your interests and preferences. I recommend you do the following.

Start in Vienna , but spend only 1 day in the city. On the second day, enjoy wine tasting in the Wachau Valley .

Continue the itinerary by visiting Gmunden and St. Wolfgang Im Salzkammergut. Then, visit Salzburg for 1 day and continue to the Salt Mines in Hallein . After, drive via the Grossglockner High Alpine Road directly to Innsbruck. Visit Innsbruck and sleep the last night in Aqua Dome .

Here is an overview of a 7-day Austrian road trip :

14-Day Road Trip In Austria

If you have 2 weeks, that’s perfect. You can extend the basic itinerary I provided and stay a few more nights in some locations . Here is what I suggest to do.

Follow the itinerary as written until you reach Salzburg . Then I recommend staying 3 nights in Salzburg and making various day trips within the region.

After Salzburg, drive via the Grossglocker High Alpine Road to Zell Am See within a day to enjoy it fully and make several stops.

After Zell Am See, follow the itinerary and stay one night in Innsbruck . I recommend staying 2 nights in Aqua Dome and enjoying the thermal springs with its surroundings. You can go hiking or rafting in the area.

Then, make it to Bregenz on the last day of the itinerary as suggested.

Practical Tips For Road Tripping Austria

I’ve got more tips for you to help you plan your road trip through Austria. See when the best time to visit is, how many days to stay, get driving tips, and budget your trip in this section.

Passport & Visa To Austria

Check the  expiration date of your passport . Most airlines don’t even take you on board if your passport expires in 6 months . Avoid issues with boarding and on the road. Ensure your passport won’t expire in the next 8 months.

Check if you need a Visa to Austria. iVisa will give you detailed information on whether you need a Visa and other necessary documents you might need to travel to Austria.

➡ Click here to see what kind of travel documents you need for Austria . iVisa will help you with Visa.

How Many Days Do You Need In Austria?

I recommend spending between 7 days up to 14 days in Austria.

7 days is the minimum time you should spend in the country. You’ll have the right time to explore what it offers, but you might be in a rush.

10 days is the perfect time to explore Austria. You’ll see all the highlights and still have time to soak it all up and relax in between.

If you want to stay more nights in some locations, spend 2 weeks in Austria . If you have that much, I recommend spending two more nights in Salzburg to explore more of the region and make some day trips.

Spend one more night in Zell Am See to enjoy the Grossglockner High Alpine Road and one more night in Aqua Dome .

Best Time To Visit Austria & Make This Road Trip

The best time to visit Austria is late May, June, September, and October . These months are the least crowded, the weather is usually beautiful, and everything is open (including the Grossglockner High Alpine Road).

I don’t recommend making a road trip through Austria in winter because the scenery is more beautiful in late spring, summer, or autumn.

Winter is great for visiting Austrian Christmas markets , which is beautiful. You can also experience traditions like Krampus. But it’s time to make a road trip.

Tips For Driving In Austria

Below are a couple of tips for road-tripping in Austria and the driving situation.

🚔 Maximum speed limit on highways in Austria is 130 km per hour .

🚔 You cand rive maximum 50 km per hour in the cities and towns in Austria.

🚔 Austria has a compulsory toll everyone must pay when driving on the highways. The best thing is to purchase a vignette . It’s available for 10 days, 2 months, or 1 year. So purchase one for 10 days online or in a petrol station once you’re in Vienna.

🚔 In winter, you must have winter tires , and if you drive to the mountain towns, always have snow chains in your car.

🚔 Roads in Austria are quite narrow , especially in the mountains and the mountain towns. So be careful and drive slowly .

Is It Easy For Americans To Drive In Austria?

Yes , it’s easy for Americans to drive in Austria. You guys don’t have to be worried. The main difference might be that the roads are smaller and narrower than in the US. But you’ll be fine.

When driving through the alpine roads, go slow and take it easy . They might seem scary at first if you’re not used to them. But it’s worth driving through to experience the scenery.

Cost Of A Road Trip In Austria

The budget for a 10-day road trip to Austria per person ( mid-range traveler ) is $1695 . This is a very realistic budget for mid-range travelers who want to stay in nice hotels, rent a car and travel conveniently, enjoy the mountains, and each location’s activities.

Here is a breakdown of this Austrian itinerary budget for each travel category:

So the total budget for a 10-day trip to Austria , without restricting yourself too much and enjoying everything the country offers, is $1695 per person .

Budget Breakdown For Different Traveler Styles

Here is a quick overview of the budget for every type of traveler:

➡ 10-day itinerary budget for backpackers and travelers on the budget: $650 ➡ 10-day itinerary budget for mid-range travelers : $1695 ➡ 10-day itinerary budget for luxury travelers : up to $3000

NOTE: This is an approximate budget based on my calculations and spending during my 10-day trip to Austria. The budget will vary based on every traveler’s preferences .

FAQs: Road Tripping Austria

I’ve also answered some of the most common questions about Austria. Check my answers below:

What Is The Most Scenic Drive In Austria?

Grossglockner High Alpine Road is the most scenic drive in Austria. It stretches between Zell am See and Lienz and takes about 1 hour to complete. It’s 48 km long and offers breathtaking scenery of Austria’s highest mountain and beautiful Hohe Tauern National Park.

What Is The Most Scenic Place In Austria?

The most scenic place in Austria is the Salzkammergut region . It offers endless activities for every traveler, and the views of the lakes and the mountains are breathtaking. Don’t miss it when visiting Austria.

Is Austria A Cheap Country To Visit?

If you compare it with other Alpine countries like France, Switzerland, and Italy, Austria is a  relatively cheap country  to visit. You’ll need approx.  $160 per day (including all costs) as a mid-range traveler in Austria and  $65 as a budget traveler .

If you’re looking for the cheapest alpine country, visit Slovenia as it’s equally beautiful and cheaper than Austria.

Is 4 Days Enough In Austria?

No , 4 days aren’t enough in Austria. You need at least 7 days to explore a few Austrian beauties. The best number of days to spend in Austria is 10 to 14.

WRAP-UP: Austria Itinerary

This is your ultimate 10-day road trip itinerary for Austria. It’ll show you all the highlights this stunning country offers. I know some people might confuse Austria with Switzerland. They’re similar, yet each of them offers different beauties.

If you can’t decide which to visit, check out my article about Switzerland vs. Austria .

If you like this itinerary and want a customized travel itinerary based on your preferences, contact me at info(at)voicesoftravel.com . I’ll gladly help you plan.

Happy Travels!

More Tips For Austria Travel

Looking to visit more places in Austria? Check out my related articles:

Best Of Salzburg Itinerary: 3 Days In Salzburg

11 Amazing Day Trips From Salzburg

Where To Stay In Salzburg: Best Areas & Hotels

Switzerland Vs. Austria: Which Is Better To Visit?

Christmas In Austria: Full Guide With Traditions & Best Places

Magical European Christmas Markets In Europe By Train: Full Itinerary

About the author: Nicoletta  is a travel enthusiast and passionate language learner. While traveling, she loves to connect with locals using her language skills to learn about new cultures. Look for her skiing, hiking in the mountains, or exploring new destinations as she designs travel itineraries for her clients.

AUSTRIA : Interested in more articles for Austria? Check out my Austria Travel Page :

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This post has 18 comments.

What a fabulous itinerary to explore Austria. My favorite parts would definitely be Hallstatt and its Skywalk to see such beautiful scenery, followed by the Alps around Innsbruck and Constance Lake. Austria just has so many wonderful natural gems to see and experience.

I am glad it inspired you, Nicole. Austria is a beautiful country worth a visit even every year.

Amazing Road Trip itinerary . I highly recommend it.Thank you for the post

Thank you, Planet Hopper Girl. I am happy you enjoyed it. 🙂

We were in Austria for about 10 days too and struggled with where we would stop. We are sorry to have missed the Wachau wine region for sure. And the giant caves in Werfen and white water rafting will definitely go on the list for our next trip.

Hi Linda, thanks for commenting. I am sorry to hear that you missed some of these spots. But I am excited to hear from you again once you come back to Austria. Glad that this itinerary inspired you.

Wow this is such a detailed guide to Austria, I love it! I only did Vienna and a small mountain town where I worked years ago when I was there. I need to see more of it!

Happy to hear you like this itinerary, Nina. Let me know once you’re back in Austria and what your favourite places were.

Austria offers so many fantastic places to see. We explored Lake Constance when we stayed in Germany. I agree with you. It’s a wonderful place to vacation.

Awesome, Lorry. I am happy you got to enjoy Lake Constance. It’s a beautiful place.

Thank you for a comprehensive road trip itinerary for Austria! Your images are simply amazing. I particularly like the image of Hallstatt. I have visited Austria some 20 years ago and covered most of the places but I would love to do another trip visiting places I missed such as Innsbruck and the lakes. I am bookmarking your blog post. 🙂

Hi Jan, I am happy that my itinerary inspired you for your next visit to Austria. Let me know once you’re there and which places you decided to visit.

Ten days in Austria seem like a good amount of time since the country isn’t that big. However, I know only Vienna really well and from there I did some day trips. Hence, I got to know the Wachau in Summer and it was like vacationing in a picture postcard – so beautiful and idyllic!

You’re right, Renata. Austria isn’t a big country… still, it offers so many stunning places, so sometimes it’s hard to put them all together into 1 itinerary. But I’ve included the top places and highlights of Austria. Happy to hear that you visited Wachau in the summer. That’s amazing.

We did a train tour of Austria but stayed only a day each in Vienna and Salzburg and spent much of the week in Inmsbruck. We missed the Eaychau Region and the Giant Ice Caves!

Great Carol. Hope you can come back to Austria one day and keep exploring more places. It is an amazing country.

What a great post I definitely need to head back to austria a few more times and a road trip sound like the best way to see this stunning country. I’ve only managed rail trip to Innsbruck and general transfers to a ski resort in Tyrol. It’s such a charming part of europe to visit.

You’re totally right, Nicole. Austria is one of the most beautiful places in Europe. I am glad this itinerary encouraged and inspired you to come back. Your skiing experience in Tyrol must have been amazing.

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The Best 10 Day Austria Road Trip Itinerary [2024]

By Gemma Tedaldi | Published: 17th April 2021 | Updated: 4th December 2023

An Austrian road trip is the best way by far to explore all that Austria has to offer. From the mountain tops to the vineyard-filled valleys, the city life to the country hikes and everything few and far between.

There is no question about it, Austria is an incredible destination for a road trip. Starting in the capital and driving west this 10-day Austria road trip itinerary is the perfect way to experience Austria for the first time.

📍 Day 1: Vienna Central

📍 Day 2: Vienna East

📍 Day 3: Krems an der Donau

📍 Day 4: Dürnstein 

📍 Day 5: Weißenkirchen in der Wachau & Wösendorf in der Wachau

📍 Day 6: Wolfgangsee

📍 Day 7: Hallstatt

📍 Day 8: Salzburg

📍 Day 9: Innsbruck

📍 Day 10: Aqua Dome & Zugspitze

Austria Road Trip Map

10 day austria road trip itinerary.

• 10 day Austria Road Trip Itinerary FAQs
• Conclusion: 10 day Austria Road Trip Itinerary

Planning Your Trip? Use our favourite travel resources below:

Accommodation: We recommend Booking.com

Rental Car: We recommend Rentalcars.com

Travel Insurance: We recommend World Nomads

Flights: We recommend Kiwi.com

Tours: We recommend Get Your Guide

Day 1 – Vienna Central

The first day of the Austria road trip and we are starting it off in the capital of Austria, Vienna. This city is full of historical buildings mixed in with a bit of modern glamour.

The best way to really get a feel for this capital city is to start at St Stephen’s Cathedral and then walk west along the various streets, including Michalereplatz , Kohlmarkt and Graben. You can get a real sense of old versus new along here with the stunning Hofburg alongside the designer shops.

Make sure in all of your wanderings you visit Café Central for a slice of the famous Viennese Apfelstrudel. The building inside as well as the food is just amazing!

The last place you should stop by before grabbing some local food and heading back to the campsite is back at St Stephen’s Cathedral . Yes, you may have started here but now is the time to go inside to experience the wonderful architecture and to get a chance to see the city from above on the incredible tiled roof!

🚐 How to get there – Take public transport and explore the centre on foot.

📌 Where to eat – Café Central

⛺️ Where to stay – Camping Neue Donau

Day 2 – Vienna East

Before leaving Vienna and continuing on the Austria road trip, we’ve got one final day to explore Vienna, but this time the slightly lesser-known areas to the east. Throughout this area of Vienna, you can find some of the most unique artwork from an artist and architect who isn’t as well-known as he should be… Hundertwasser .

His buildings are really something that have to be seen to be believed! Not only can you visit all of the buildings he has designed along an art trail through this area, but you can also stop for a bite to eat in the garden of the Kunst Haus . From here head back to the campsite before leaving the city tomorrow morning.

🚐 How to get there – Take the local public transport to the area then explore on foot.

📌 Where to eat – Kunst Haus

Day 3 – Krems an der Donau

Day 3 and we’re heading out of the city and into the beautiful countryside along the Danube for the Austria road trip. Just 1.5 hours away after driving along the route of the River Danube into the Wachau region, you will arrive in Krems an der Donau .

This town is full to the brim with historical buildings and monuments alongside a few modern twists. Lying directly alongside the River Danube is also has a rather nice riverside path that is wonderful to walk along in the late evening as the sunsets on the surrounding vineyard-covered hills.

One place you simply must stop by is the Heuriger Weingut Hamböck. Not only does food and local apricot wine mean you should visit, but the view from this bar across to the Göttweig Abbey is incredible. The wander back through the surrounding colourful town streets is also well worth it. Get settled in at the campsite for tonight as it will be your spot for the next few days exploring the Wachau.

🚐 How to get there – Take the B1 north out of Vienna before following the B14 then B43 west.

📌 Where to eat – Heuriger Weingut Hamböck

⛺️ Where to stay – Donaupark Camping Krems

Day 4 – Dürnstein

Dürnstein is a place unlike no other in Austria. With a bright blue monastery overlooking the River Danube to greet you into the village, alongside quaint cobbled streets and alleyways to get lost in, what more could you ask for from a day?

How about some apricots?! If you hadn’t guessed already, this area is well known for its apricots, or marillen, so make sure you stop at Dürnsteinerhof for the apricot pancakes and dumplings, (our personal favourite!).

You can easily spend hours exploring the village with its multitude of tiny shops and numerous local delicacies to try along the Haupstrasse . After all that eating of apricots and cherries, head back to the Krems campsite for your second night.

🚐 How to get there – Drive 10 minutes from the campsite west along the B3, otherwise know as the Österreichische Romantikstraße.

📌 Where to eat – Dürnsteinerhof

Day 5 – Weißenkirchen in der Wachau & Wösendorf in der Wachau

The last day in the Wachau region sees the villages of Weißenkirchen in der Wachau & Wösendorf in der Wachau being explored. Full of colour, wineries and really quite quiet compared to the last couple of days, these villages are all about getting out on foot and exploring all the alleyways and along country paths between the villages.

This particular area of the Wachau and Danube is also famous for its white churches, so try and spot a few before you leave!

Take the tiny roadways and paths through the vineyards to the north of the villages first before walking the footpath/cycle path that runs alongside the main road route 3 / along the Danube back from Wösendorf to Weißenkirchen . Head back to the campsite at Krems for your final night in the Wachau.

🚐 How to get there – Drive 15 minutes from the campsite west along the B3.

📌 Where to eat – Café Elisabeth

Planning your own week on the Romantic Road of Austria? Make sure you check out our Travelling Tedaldi Amazon Store Travel Guides for all your guidebooks and maps. (We’ve done the hard work for you and linked all the things we used to plan our trip!)

Day 6 – Wolfgangsee

Day 6 and we hit the longest stretch on the Austria road trip, 2.5 hours from one campsite to the next at Wolfgangsee . It’s not all that bad though, the drive is through stunning landscapes that will have you stopping every 10 minutes for photos!

This area of Austria, Salzkammergut, is often compared to the UK Lake District, but believe us when we say, the mountain ranges and alpine lakes are uniquely different and truly a sight to behold. Even though this area is slightly more touristy than the Wachau, you can still easily find a relaxing place to stop alongside one of the many lakes including Wolfgangsee.

If you’re brave enough, and not too bothered by the ice-cold waters, you can even hop in for a swim!

If you stay at Paradiescamping Wolfgangsee you can have direct access to the lake, so no need to worry about finding a parking spot along the lake edge further north!

🚐 How to get there – Take the B3 west past your previous days stops, then cross the Danube to Melk before continuing along the A1/E60. Take the A9 south towards Graz before exiting at 69 Liezen to the B320, B145 then the B158.

⛺️ Where to stay – Paradiescamping Wolfgangsee

Day 7 – Hallstatt

If you want to feel like you have stepped into a fairytale then Hallstatt is the place for you . This stunning UNESCO World Heritage Village with its alpine houses covered with flower boxes and views out over one of the most peaceful lakes in Austria is something really magical.

When we visited it chucked it down with rain all day, but it was still one of the most beautiful villages we have ever been lucky enough to visit. The numerous churches and village viewpoints make Hallstatt the perfect place to while away a day, local delicacies in hand, (find the schaumrollen stand, you will not be disappointed).

Make sure you also get off the main tourist trail here though and walk the back streets and alleyways between the buildings, particularly around the Oberer Marktplatz , Doktor Friedrich Morton Weg and stepped path towards Mullersteige. The views will be just as good if not better than the ones with all the tourists. Head back to the campsite at Wolfgangsee for your final night in the area.

🚐 How to get there – Take the B158, then the B145 south before driving a short way on the 166 before taking the Hallstättersee Landesstraße.

📌 Where to eat – Ofenfrishce Schaumrollen

Day 8 – Salzburg

The hills really are alive with the sound of music in Salzburg! Thanks not only to the film filmed across this region of Austria but also to being the birthplace of Mozart.

Park at CONTIPARK Tiefgarage Altstadtgarage A then follow the Monchesberg track south then east towards the Fortress Hohnesalzburg . We couldn’t go in as it was shut, so instead continued on following the path around to Stift Nonnberg and one of the nicest views over the city.

Next take the steps down Festungsgase from Stift Nonnberg into Kaiptelplatz , entering from the south for more stunning views and an entrance into the heart of the old town directly to the Dom zu Salzburg . The roads through this area of Salzburg have some of the oldest buildings in the city, with ornate signs hanging into the street below, (including at Mozarts House!).

Explore this area of the city before crossing the River Salzach to Mirabell Palace and Mirabellgarten . You can easily spend an hour or two wandering through here, listening to live music and enjoying the beautiful well-kept gardens surrounding the palace.

After taking in all the sights you can head back to the car park and onto your next campsite – Campingplatz Judenstein (it is a 2-hour drive, but it’ll be worth it for day 9…).

🚐 How to get there – Drive north following the B158 Österreichische Romantikstraße.

📌 Where to eat – Eleven 11:11 Eleven

⛺️ Where to stay – Campingplatz Judenstein (ready for day 9!).

Day 9 – Innsbruck

How does a day in the mountains sound? Well, that’s just what you’ll get on day 9 during a trip to Innsbruck . Innsbruck was one of our favourite places we visited along this Austria road trip, with the option to get out into nature directly from the city as well as just exploring the city itself, it is somewhat unique.

Start the day off with a trip into the surrounding mountains via the Nordkette Cable Car , which will whisk you from the city outskirts to the top of Innsbruck in a matter of minutes! From here just wander, enjoy the views, and meet some of the local sheep who call the mountains their home. Stop at Restaurant Karstube for some of the best food with a view you will ever have.

After you’ve had enough of the mountain tops, head back down the way you came up and get exploring the city centre. The architecture of the city is stunning, from the Goldenes Dachl to the pink hospital church and all the streets in between.

Be sure to grab a slice of Sacher Torte from Café Sacher whilst exploring, this apricot jam-filled chocolate cake is a local speciality. From the city centre head to the next campsite 1 hour away, for a relaxing final day tomorrow.

🚐 How to get there – Take Rinner Straße west before crossing the A13 at Schloßstraße into the Tivoli area of Innsbruck. Take your pick of parking! We stopped at Congress Parking Rennweg 3, 6020.

📌 Where to eat – Café Sacher Innsbruck and Restaurant Karstube

⛺️ Where to stay – Camping Ötztal Längenfeld

Day 10 – Aqua Dome & Zugspitze

For the final day of the Austria road trip get up after a good lie-in, following the mountain exploring yesterday, and make your way to the Aqua Dome , only a 20-minute walk from the campsite. (You also get a discount on entry if you stay at Camping Ötztal Längenfeld so it’s well worth it!). Soak in the warm waters surrounded by the Austrian mountains until your fully relaxed, before grabbing a bite to eat in the local town.

After getting back to the campsite pack up and drive 1 hour north to the border with Germany and the famous Zugspitze . The campground for the night is shadowed over by this mighty mountain, which you can either make your way up, (weather depending), or if you can’t, relax at the final campsite of the trip in the spa!

🚐 How to get there – Take the B186 north, take the exit at B171, then B189. Upon reaching the B179, take it north, then the L71 and L391 at Fernpaßstraße.

⛺️ Where to stay – Zugspitze Resort Obermoos before travelling onwards through Europe or home via Innsbruck Airport (1 hour away).

10 Day Austria Road Trip Itinerary FAQs

Where is austria.

Austria is located towards the east of Central Europe. It is landlocked by the neighbouring countries of the Czech Republic, Germany, Hungary, Italy, Liechtenstein, Slovakia, Slovenia and Switzerland, making it the perfect place to visit whilst exploring Europe on a road trip.

How to get to Austria

Due to its central location and proximity to other countries, it makes it very easy to get to Austria via car or public transport as well as via plane. The train network throughout Austria as well as the neighbouring countries is also some of the most reliable in Europe.

On our visit we were exploring Europe in a campervan so came in via Slovakia, and the border crossing was really easy to navigate, (like most of the border crossings throughout Europe). However most people arrive into Austria by plane at one of the international airports that serve the country;

📍 Vienna International Airport

📍 Innsbruck Airport

📍 Salzburg W.A. Mozart Airport

📍 Graz Airport

Fancy a trip to Austria? Check out our 5 must-see cities, towns and villages

Driving in austria, how long does it take to drive across austria.

We spent 10 days driving across Austria, from entry in the east at the Slovenian border to exit at the border with Liechtenstein in the west, so pretty much the entire width of Austria. We drove from Vienna to Innsbruck, partially on the Romantic Road of Austria and feel like we really got to explore all this wonderfully diverse country has to offer. You can of course take it slower, but we felt that 10 days was the perfect amount of time for our Austria road trip.

Is it safe to drive in Austria?

We drove, parked up and camped in our campervan throughout Austria and not once did we feel unsafe. The Austrians are such a friendly bunch and driving allows you to get to the places that other tourists may not. The places you only find out about from the locals at a campsite down the road, where the best dumplings in the region are for example!

Vignettes and tolls in Austria

You will need to get a vignette if you plan on driving any motorways and expressways in Austria, be it in a car, campervan or via motorbike. The vignettes are compulsory, (and have been since 1997), and ensure that the roads are kept in good condition.

How much is an Austrian vignette?

There are three different types of vignettes, either 10 days for 9.90 euros, 2 months for 29.00 euros or 1 year for 96.40 euros. It is slightly cheaper for motorbikes at 5.80 euros for 10 days, 14.50 euros for 2 months and 38.20 euros for a year.

You can either buy a physical toll sticker that must be on your windscreen or a digital vignette before you begin to travel. (The digital one is not valid until 18 days after purchase, so make sure that you buy it far enough in advance of your trip!).

You can get the physical sticker in lots of places such as petrol stations, post offices and newsagents. As we were driving between countries, before we crossed the border into Austria, we bought a toll sticker at a petrol station in Slovenia. There are signs in convenience stores and petrol stations near the borders of each country in Europe that will remind you to get a new vignette if you need one for that country, so there’s no need to worry about getting caught out.

What do I need to drive in Austria?

To drive in Austria you will need an in date driving license and depending on your passport, an international driving license as well.

Can you drive in Austria without a vignette?

Technically yes, you can drive in Austria without a vignette, although this will mean that you will have to avoid driving on the main roads and motorways throughout the country, which is not recommended if you want to make the most of your time in Austria.

Renting a car in Austria

If you chose to rent a car for your Austria road trip then be sure to check if it already includes the vignette. Depending on where you are starting your journey from, either inside Austria or in a neighbouring country, you may or may not have to purchase a vignette yourself.

Check out Rentalcars.com for all your rental options, they have some great deals on a wide variety of vehicles. We’ve used them in numerous locations across Europe and they’re always really easy and simple to rent through.

Where to stay in Austria

As we were driving through Europe with a campervan, we stayed at a few campsites throughout Austria rather than in hotels or hostels. We would highly recommend staying at the following places:

Camping Neue Donau

Donaupark Camping Krems

Paradiescamping Wolfgangsee

Campingplatz Judenstein

Camping Ötztal Längenfeld

Zugspitze Resort

However, if you would rather road trip through Austria, but stay in accommodation with a bit more luxury then be sure to check out the best accommodation deals on Booking.com .

What is the best time for an Austrian road trip?

We visited Austria during the early summer, (June) and although it was busy in the main cities, most of the other locations we visited were relatively quiet, so just perfect for us. The season really picks up when the schools across Europe break up for the summer holiday from the end of July through to early September.

The weather was stunning throughout our trip, (all bar one day), and we really got to see Austria in its full summer glory. Having said that, we would love to experience Austria in the spring/autumn with a chance of a dusting of snow and even fewer tourists around.

What is the most beautiful road in Austria?

Without a doubt, the most beautiful Austrian road is the Romantic Road. We wrote this guide to it – How to spend a week on the Austrian Romantic Road – following our trip along it. From the start to the end, this route really gives you a sense of the best bits of Austria, but still leaves you wanting to explore even more. Starting/ending in either Salzburg or Vienna, (or vice versa depending on which way you want to drive), and winding along the River Danube, this route is the best place to start if you haven’t visited Austria before.

What is the most famous road in Austria?

There are two famous roads in Austria, the Großglockner High Alpine Road and the Romantic Road of Austria, (we can highly recommend driving this one!).

What is the best way to explore Austria?

By far the best way to explore Austria is with a car or campervan so you can visit both the well known and not so well known places in Austria. It also gives you the chance to visit Austria at your own pace rather than when you are on a tour.

How far is Vienna from Salzburg?

Vienna is roughly a 380km drive from Salzburg.

Is driving in Austria easy?

Driving in Austria is very easy, (although it can get a little more stressful through major cities). Just be sure to remember to drive on the right and give wax to any trams or buses that you come across.

How many days in Austria is enough?

This is slightly dependent on what you want to see and where you want to go, but if like us you want a broad road trip to explore the best bits that Austria has to offer, then 10 days is a great amount of time. We could easily have spent a lot longer in Austria, but for a first Austria road trip, that is a good amount of time.

Is it good to drive in Austria?

100% yes. There are such a wide variety of roads you drive on throughout Austria, from the motorways between cities right through to single-track lanes out into the wine-growing countryside, you will never get bored of driving.

Conclusion: 10 Day Austria Road Trip Itinerary

So, here is our itinerary for a 10-day Austria road trip! From the capital to the leafy vineyard valleys, along the river Rhine and into the Alps, what more could you want from an Austrian road trip?

Let us know if you are planning your own trip to Austria, or if there are any places you would suggest we stop by next time. Be sure to check out our other blog posts on Austria for even more inspiration.

Gemma is the owner and author of The Travelling Tedaldi, a travel blog helping travellers to discover the best road trips and travel itineraries throughout the UK and Europe. When she isn’t writing about her favourite travel destinations, she can often be found out exploring local hikes or planning future trips.

You may also enjoy:

5 day snowdonia road trip [2024], exmoor itinerary: how to spend 5 days in exmoor [2024], 13 north devon beaches you must visit [2024], the best 9 day road trip in wales [2024].

Okay this looks amazing!! I’ve been thinking of road tripping Austria at some point (mostly to visit Hallstatt) so this is perfect. I’ve never heard of Hundertwasser either, that looks so awesome!

You should definitely road trip through Austria, it is incredible! Hallstatt is on another level too, hope you make it there soon!

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A Lady in London

And Traveling the World

Lady’s Perfect Austria Itinerary for 10 Days

I love traveling in Austria. From cities to mountains, I’ve experienced a lot of great trips over the years. Which is why I’m excited to have partnered with the Austrian National Tourist Office to travel to the country and bring you the perfect Austria itinerary for 10 days.

Austria Itinerary for 10 Days

I was in Vienna over the summer, so my current itinerary focuses on other parts of the country. I’m starting in Innsbruck, then taking the train to Salzburg and Graz before flying back to London from Vienna.

My trip is focused on the best the three cities have to offer. Innsbruck is known for its proximity to the mountains, Salzburg for its culture and The Sound of Music connections, and Graz for its food and design.

Austria Itinerary Day 1: Innsbruck

My Austria itinerary for 10 days begins with a flight to Innsbruck. Called the Capital of the Alps, this city is worth a visit for its historic imperial connections and stunning mountain backdrop.

Hotel in Innsbruck

When I arrive, I check into my room at Adlers Hotel . It’s conveniently located near the main train station. My room has design-led decor and great views over the city. Best of all, the mountains are so close I can see every tree.

Dinner in Innsbruck

I’ve arrived in time for dinner, so I walk from my hotel to the old town and stumble upon a restaurant called Die Wilderin.

It focuses on local, seasonal ingredients and nose-to-tail cuisine. A meal of cabbage strudel and freshwater fish en papillote starts my trip on a delicious note.

Austria Itinerary Day 2: Innsbruck

The following morning I head out to see the city. The tourism board has compiled self-guided walks for visitors, and I do parts of the “From Ski Jump to the Sill Gorge” one today.

I start by walking past the historic Grassmayr Bell Foundry, Wilten Basilica, and Wilten Abbey to get to the ski jump, Bergisel.

Designed by Zaha Hadid, the Bergisel ski jump is a stunning feature of Innsbruck’s architectural landscape. It can be seen from all over the city.

I ride to the top and have a slice of Bergisel torte, the ski jump’s signature cake, at the cafe.

It’s made of topfen, a yogurt-like product Austrians use to cure everything from sprains to sunburns. The cake is shaped like the ski jump, colors and all.

The views of the city from the cafe are stunning, and I even get lucky enough to see someone brave the ski jump while I’m eating.

Bergisel is close to a hiking trail with views over the Sill Gorge canyon.

I walk to the Drachenfelsen observation deck, and along the way I take in the forest paths and dramatic scenery. It’s hard to believe the city center is in walking distance.

Lunch at Bierstindl

After the hike, I head back into Innsbruck for lunch at Bierstindl. This traditional restaurant serves all the classics, and I settle in for a hearty lunch.

I try Almdudler, an Austrian soda made with herbs, and tuck into a plate of moreish seasonal chanterelle mushrooms with cream and brezenknodel dumplings made from pretzel dough.

Innsbruck Historic Attractions

After lunch I use my Innsbruck Card to take the hop-on, hop-off bus to the old town. There are a lot of Austrian imperial highlights and charming historic streets here.

I start at the Triumphal Arch, which was commissioned by Empress Maria Theresa in the 18th century. One side commemorates her son’s wedding, which took place at the Imperial Palace in Innsbruck in 1765.

The other side commemorates the death of her husband, which took place during the same wedding celebrations.

From the arch it’s a short walk to the City Tower. I climb to the top for panoramic views over Innsbruck. I can see everything from the famous Golden Roof to the cathedral and Imperial Palace from here.

Back on the ground, I take in the buildings I saw from above. The Golden Roof in Innsbruck was built by Emperor Maximilian I around 1500. A symbol of the city, it’s known for the gilded copper shingles that give the building its name.

After seeing the Golden Roof, I make quick visits to the Imperial Palace, cathedral, and Court Church.

The palace is famous for the Giants’ Hall, a grand room with 18th-century portraits of Empress Maria Teresa’s children and grandchildren.

The Cathedral of St James is known for its baroque ceiling frescoes and stucco work. There’s also a painting of the Madonna and child by Lukas Cranach the Elder.

The Court Church is important for being the site of the grave of Emperor Maximilian I. It has beautiful bronze statues surrounding it, and the details on them are amazing to see up close.

Dinner at Ottoburg in Innsbruck

When I’m done exploring the city center, I head to dinner at Ottoburg. This historic restaurant is set in one of the city’s oldest buildings.

The interior is full of small rooms with dark wood paneling, and I revel in a dinner of prawns and Schlutzkrapfen dumplings, which are similar to ravioli.

Austria Itinerary Day 3: Innsbruck

The next day my Austria itinerary for 10 days continues with a trip to the city’s Markthalle.

Innsbruck Markthalle

This indoor market is the perfect place to spend a morning. There are all kinds of vendors selling produce from Austria and abroad, and restaurants dotted around the perimeter.

Before noon, local farmers sell their produce in the back of the Markthalle, so there’s always something Tyrolean to try.

I go from stall to stall sampling everything from mountain cheese at Peter Lieb to homemade pumpkin cake at Verena’s Cookies and Cakes.

I also stop at a stand where a local man sells dried herbs he collects himself in the mountains.

After grazing, I settle in for lunch at La Piccola, a pizza restaurant in the Markthalle. The food is as good as it looks, and it’s a great place to soak up the atmosphere.

Back outside, I come across a pop-up market called Das Dorf der Alpen. More local and regional producers sell everything from honey to meat here.

There’s even a mobile bread oven turning out freshly baked loaves. Live music adds a nice touch, too.

Whalterpark and Hotting

After exploring the market, I head across the river to see a more local side of Innsbruck. Not many visitors make it to this part of the city, but it’s only a few minutes’ walk from the Golden Roof.

I take another of the tourism board’s self-guided walks here. It’s called “Authentic Innsbruck”, and it’s a good one for getting away from the busy areas of Innsbruck.

I start by walking through the Whalterpark, where locals go for picnics in the summer months. It’s lined with colorful historic buildings on one side and the river on the other.

From the park I explore Hotting, a local area with heritage houses and murals on the facades. It’s great to see a part of the city away from the main attractions.

Dinner with a View

In the evening, I have dinner at my hotel. The 12th floor of Adlers Hotel has a restaurant and roof terrace bar with great views of Innsbruck and the surrounding mountains.

My tuna is somewhat overcooked, but the scenery goes a long way to make up for it.

Austria Itinerary Day 4: Innsbruck and Salzburg

The following day my Austria itinerary for 10 days continues with a trip to the Top of Innsbruck. My route follows most of the tourism board’s “Alpine and Urban Perspectives” walk.

Top of Innsbruck

I start at the Congress station of the funicular that takes passengers up the mountain. Like the ski jump, the stations were designed by Zaha Hadid.

On the way to the top, I stop at Hungerburg station. There’s a viewpoint, cafe, and small museum here.

After exploring, I take the cable car to the Top of Innsbruck. This peak is a ski area in the winter and is popular for hiking, mountain biking, and fixed rope routes in the summer. It’s amazing how close it is to the city center.

Heading back down, I stop for lunch at Seegrube. This mountain restaurant is the perfect place to take in the views while eating traditional food.

I tuck into a cast iron dish full of cheese spatzle with fried onions and chives. It pairs excellently with the view and a dessert of apple strudel.

Back down at Congress station, I head across the street to soak up the peaceful atmosphere in the Imperial Gardens before leaving Innsbruck.

There are roses and other flowers here, and ponds full of ducks. Old men play on a giant chess set, and it all offers a nice break from the bustle of the city.

Train to Salzburg

Soon my Austria itinerary for 10 days sees me board a train to Salzburg. It takes around 2 hours, and the scenery is full of mountains, dotted with church spires, and punctuated by sunflower fields.

Hotel in Salzburg

When I arrive in Salzburg, I take a taxi to my hotel, the Villa and Hotel Auersperg . An unassuming facade gives way to a stylish lobby with a beautiful secret garden out back.

My room is spacious with modern furnishings, and there’s a pretty little spa with a sauna and steam room down the hall.

Sky Bar in Salzburg

After I get settled, I head to dinner at the Imlauer Sky Bar in Salzburg. As the name implies, the restaurant has great views of the city. A buttery truffle pasta with prawns and lobster foam starts my visit on a high note.

Austria Itinerary Day 5: Salzburg

The next morning my Austria itinerary for 10 days takes me on a tour of Salzburg. Dressed in a traditional dirndl, I head out to explore.

Sebastian Cemetery in Salzburg

My first stop is one of the city’s secret spots. The 400-year-old St Sebastian’s Cemetery in Salzburg is where Mozart’s wife and other relatives are buried.

There’s also a mausoleum that houses the remains of Wolf Dietrich, Prince-Archbishop of Salzburg from 1587 to 1612. It’s open while I’m here, so I duck in and admire the sculptures and tiled walls.

Streets and Bridges

From the cemetery, I walk down Linzergasse, one of the main shopping streets in Salzburg. At the end, I turn onto Steingasse.

This narrow, cobbled alley dates back to Roman times. I’m amazed to see that there are still parts of the Roman road visible beneath the street today.

Not far away, I find myself on the Mozartsteg bridge, one of the filming locations from The Sound of Music .

Residenzplatz

Once I cross it, I come to another filming location: Residenzplatz. This big square and its fountain featured in the film.

It’s also the city’s main plaza and part of the UNESCO World Heritage old town. Some of Salzburg’s most important buildings surround it, including the Residenz.

The Residenz palace was home to the prince-archbishops who ruled Salzburg until it became part of the Habsburg Empire.

I tour the state rooms, taking in the Baroque and Neoclassical interiors with their tapestries, chandeliers, ceramic furnaces, and ceiling paintings of Alexander the Great.

From the Residenz, I go next door to Salzburg Cathedral. Mozart was baptized in this Baroque church, and the interiors are as impressive as his music.

And speaking of Mozart, Furst, the shop where the famous Mozartkugel chocolates were first made in 1890, is right around the corner. I can’t help going in to try one of their signature treats.

More food awaits at the nearby Green Market in Salzburg. This place has outdoor stalls selling everything from local produce to jams, flowers, cheeses, sausages, schnapps, and gingerbread cookies shaped like violins.

Open every day but Sunday, it’s a great place to get into the city’s food scene.

I indulge in a heart-shaped gingerbread cookie, then walk back to the Residenzplatz for a carriage ride through the historic city center. It’s a unique way to see the sights and get a feel for how things are connected.

My last stop in the area is Mozart’s Birthplace, a museum in the home where the famous composer was born. I don’t have time to go in on this trip, but I toured it on my last two visits and enjoyed learning about Mozart’s life.

Hohensalzburg Fortress

My Austria itinerary for 10 days continues with a trip up to the hulking Hohensalzburg Fortress.

I use my Salzburg Card to ride the funicular to the top, where I find stunning views of the city and surrounding countryside. I can even see the mountain the von Trapp family crossed at the end of The Sound of Music .

I spend some time walking around the fortress complex, taking in the layers of history and popping into the Marionette Museum.

St Peter’s Cemetery and Around

Afterwards I ride the funicular back down into the city and walk over to St Peter’s Cemetery.

This pretty place is surrounded by the towers and domes of the old town. It served as inspiration for one of the final scenes in The Sound of Music , when the family hides in a graveyard.

Leaving St Peter’s, I walk by Stiftsbackerei St Peter, the oldest bakery in Salzburg. It has a historic waterwheel out front and great views of the fortress above.

From the bakery I go through St Peter’s Abbey, which is home to one of the oldest restaurants in Europe.

Augustiner Brewery in Salzburg

Eventually my walk leads me to the Augustiner Brewery in Salzburg. This place uses historic brewing methods to make its famous beers, and I get a behind-the-scenes tour with the master brewer himself.

Afterwards I’m shown around the restaurant, which has huge rooms full of tables where locals and visitors come to enjoy the beer and food.

Dinner at Die Weisse

And speaking of breweries, in the evening I have dinner at Die Weisse. This lively restaurant has a traditional beer hall feel, and I dig into Karntner Kasnudeln, a ravioli-like dish with cheese filling, for dinner.

Austria Itinerary Day 6: Salzburg

My Austria itinerary for 10 days continues with a trip to the Mirabell Palace and Gardens.

Mirabell Palace and Gardens

Dressed like Maria from The Sound of Music , I visit the Marble Hall and traipse around the paths among the flowers. The von Trapp children sang “Do Re Mi” here, and I can hear the song in my head the whole time.

The Sound of Music Filming Locations

After visiting the gardens, I hop in a taxi to see more filming locations from the movie.

My first stop is Schloss Leopoldskron, a villa that was used as the back of the main house. It’s right on the water, and the scene where Maria falls out of the boat was filmed here as well.

From Schloss Leopoldskron, it’s a short drive to Frohnburg Palace, the house that was used as the front of the von Trapp family home. Scenes where Maria skips down a tree-lined path were shot here, too.

Hellbrunn Palace

Another quick drive brings me to Hellbrunn Palace, a 400-year-old Italianate pleasure palace near Salzburg.

This Baroque pile is known for its elaborate trick fountains, which Prince-Archbishop Markus Sittikus designed to entertain (and soak) his guests.

It’s also where the gazebo from The Sound of Music is located. Built for the film, it now sits in a corner of the gardens of Hellbrunn Palace. I can’t help humming a few lines from “Sixteen Going on Seventeen” as I take it in.

Cooking Class in Salzburg

Back in Salzburg, I learn to make the city’s iconic Salzburger Nockerl dessert at the Edelweiss Cooking School.

Set in a cave carved into the cliffs, this unique space was once a customs office. It’s a fun place to learn to cook a classic dish. Lucky for me, it’s an easy one to make.

Salzburger Nockerl is a souffle dessert with three peaks that represent the three mountains surrounding the city.

It’s mostly eggs and sugar, and the majority of the work consists of beating egg whites (I like to think it helps me burn the calories I’m about to consume).

It bakes for 10 minutes, and when it’s done it’s light, sweet, and great with coffee.

Dinner at M32

After class, it’s a few steps to the elevator that goes up a hill to the Museum of Modern Art. I head there to enjoy the sunset with a view over the city.

Afterwards I have dinner at the museum’s restaurant, M32. I love the artistic interior and neon signs in the dining room.

The food is good, but my starter and main end up consisting of nearly the same ingredients, something I wish my server had warned me about when I ordered.

Austria Itinerary Day 7: Salzburg and Graz

The next morning my Austria itinerary for 10 days transports me to Graz. The train ride from Salzburg to Graz is one of the most beautiful rail journeys I’ve ever taken.

Misty mountains, blue rivers, and hilltop castles ensure my nose is pressed to the glass for the duration of the trip. By the time I get to Graz, I’m convinced Austria has the most beautiful scenery in Europe.

Hotel in Graz

A quick tram ride from the main train station takes me to my hotel in Graz, Hotel Weitzer . My room is big and newly decorated, and I like the style of it.

The only downside is that the WiFi isn’t fast or reliable during my stay, which makes working difficult.

Dinner at Salon Marie in Graz

So it’s a good thing I spend most of my time eating and exploring. Graz is the Capital of Culinary Delights, and as soon as I taste the food at Salon Marie, a stylish restaurant in the city center, I see why.

My grilled pomegranate eggplant dish is delicious with its tahini sauce, and the regional Muskateller wine is so good that I head to the restaurant’s sister shop, Der Steirer, the next day to buy a bottle.

Austria Itinerary Day 8: Graz

My Austria itinerary for 10 days continues with a day of foodie indulgence in Graz.

Farmers’ Market in Kaiser-Josef-Platz

I start at the farmers’ market in Kaiser-Josef-Platz. There are a lot of markets in Graz, and this is the biggest. It’s open every day apart from Sunday, and it’s worth a special trip.

I sample fresh juice from Julia Jeschek, who has a shop specializing in wild herbs and fruits. Next door, I try regional cheeses at Kasalm, a cheese shop with over 1,500 cheeses.

Browsing the stalls, I sample Styria’s famous pumpkin seed oil from Katharina Gsols, who has a farm in Katzelsdorf. She sells everything from eggs to garlic, and it all looks delicious.

It’s amazing that so much of the market’s produce is regional and seasonal, not to mention less expensive than in supermarkets.

Opera House in Graz

Across the street from Kaiser-Josef-Platz is the opera house, which I walk around to see the huge steel skeleton sculpture of the Statue of Liberty holding a sword.

‘s Fachl

My next stop is at a shop called ‘s Fachl. This unique store allows small regional producers to rent boxes to sell their goods.

Everything from pumpkin seed oil (their best seller) to soap can be found here, and it’s a great place to pick up a souvenir or gift.

Lunch at Frankowitsch

Not far from ‘s Fachl, Frankowitsch is an institution in Graz. This place serves a wide range of open-face sandwiches in a historic dining room.

I order at the counter, then settle in for a lunch of smoked salmon, sheep cheese, and lobster sandwiches.

Afterwards I can’t help indulging in Frankowitsch’s delicious pastries. They’re colorful works of art, and they taste as good as they look.

Chocolate Tasting at Linzbichler

My sweet tooth persists after lunch, so it’s a good thing the next stop on my Austria itinerary for 10 days is Linzbichler. This family-run chocolate shop in Graz is famous for its high-quality chocolates, pralines, and other sweet treats.

I sample everything from chocolates with olive oil and salt to ones with fresh chestnut. There’s a focus on high-quality and seasonal products here, and it shows in how good they taste.

Zero Waste at Das Gramm

Around the corner, I pop into Das Gramm. This zero-waste shop and cafe sells everything from fresh produce to bamboo toothbrushes. It also has light prepared fare. I like its ethos, and the food looks delicious.

Vegan Ice Cream at Die Eisperle

Speaking of delicious, my next stop is Die Eisperle, a vegan ice cream shop in Graz. This fun place has unique flavors like pear and parsley, orange and basil, and strawberry and mint.

The ice cream tastes as good as it looks, and soon I’m floating off on a fruit-filled sugar rush.

Down the street, I have coffee at Tribeka, a local shop that roasts its own beans in Graz. With multiple locations in the city, it’s a great place for a coffee and cake.

Stadtpfarrkirche Church

Taking a break from eating, I visit the Stadtpfarrkirche church. It’s not only beautiful, but also unique.

For starters, its stained-glass windows contain an indictment of 20th-century fascism. In the chancel, small figures of Hitler and Mussolini number among the torturers at Christ’s crucifixion.

Dinner at Der Steirer

It’s hard to believe I still have room for dinner after all I’ve eaten, but if there’s one place in Graz that can tempt me to keep eating, it’s Der Steirer.

This restaurant does a Styrian take on tapas, and everything from pumpkin carpaccio to warm polenta shows off the region’s cuisine beautifully.

Austria Itinerary Day 9: Graz

The following morning my Austria itinerary for 10 days continues with sightseeing in Graz.

Contemporary Architecture in Graz

I start at the Friendly Alien, the art museum that was built in 2003 when Graz was European Capital of Culture. This curving glass building stands out among the historic facades that surround it.

It’s not the only work of contemporary architecture in the area, either. Near it is the Murinsel island, which floats in the river and houses a cafe, an outlet of ‘s Fachl, and a small amphitheater.

Schlossberg in Graz

From Murinsel, I take the funicular up to Schlossberg, a hill overlooking Graz. I soak up the views to the sound of live harp music and walk by the historic bell tower and clock tower, which can be seen from all over the city.

Afterwards I take the glass elevator to street level. As I go, I can see the world’s longest underground slide and hear people zooming down it at top speed.

Historic Sites in Graz

My next stop is the History Museum, which has a stunning historic staircase and ceiling paintings tucked away off the main street.

Across the road is the Kastner and Ohler department store. I go to the top, where a terrace offers stunning views over the orange rooftops of Graz’s old town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

After cake at the Freiblick cafe in the store, I continue my sightseeing tour with a walk through the historic streets.

Baroque and Art Nouveau facades color my path, and there are plenty of medieval courtyards and cobblestones to keep my camera busy.

Burg in Graz

Soon I find myself at the double spiral staircase in the Burg. This stunning historic construction is beautiful to climb and bends my brain as the steps come together and go apart again in an Escher-like puzzle.

Outside, I explore the Burg Garden. Busts of famous Styirans lead me to an orangery, and the whole place is delightfully peaceful and quiet.

More Historic Attractions in Graz

Not far from the garden, the Graz Cathedral and neighboring Mausoleum of Emperor Ferdinand II are two more of the city’s main attractions.

I go into the latter, which has stunning 17th-century ceiling frescoes and beautiful paintings and sculptures.

Nearby, I duck into the old Jesuit College, where a snowman sculpture stares into a puddle.

It’s near Glockenspielplatz, where an early 20th-century glockenspiel built by an enterprising business owner entertains onlookers three times a day.

Lunch in Graz

I have lunch nearby at a vegan restaurant in Graz called Greenhouse. Tucked away in an arcade by the glockenspiel, it has all kinds of salads and other lunch fare.

I dig into a Greenhouse Bowl and try a local tea drink called Makava with it. I sit upstairs, and it’s buzzing. Comfy chairs provide a relaxed atmosphere, and it’s the perfect place to rest my feet after a morning of sightseeing.

Squares and Courtyards in Graz

After lunch, my Austria itinerary for 10 days continues with more attractions. I walk to the Main Square, which is surrounded by beautiful historic buildings and a 19th-century city hall.

Near it is the Franciscan Cloister, which is secreted away in a monastery. This peaceful courtyard is decorated with Renaissance sgraffito art.

Also in the area is the Styrian parliament building, which has a beautiful courtyard of its own. The Renaissance arcade and Baroque facade are testaments to the city’s evolution and history.

I find a third courtyard at the Joanneumsviertel. It’s surrounded by historic facades but has a subterranean contemporary architectural scene that emerges in various places around the square.

Dinner at Altsteirische Schmankerlstube

I end my day with dinner at a Styrian restaurant in the city center. Altsteirische Schmankerlstube is full of wooden tables and traditional decor.

I tuck into hand-shaped potato noodles with fresh leeks, root vegetables, sheep cheese, and pumpkin sauce. It’s as delicious as it is unique.

For dessert, I have vanilla ice cream with pumpkin seed oil. Everyone I’ve met in Graz has told me to try it, and I can taste why. It’s incredible.

Austria Itinerary Day 10: Graz and London

My Austria itinerary for 10 days continues the next morning with a train ride to Vienna. I take the tram to the main train station and board my service to the capital.

A little under two-and-a-half hours later, I change trains in Vienna for a service to Vienna Airport. I arrive with plenty of time to check in for my flight, and soon I’m soaring over Austria on my way home.

It’s been an amazing trip, and I’ve enjoyed having so much time to get to know Austria. It’s been inspiring to be close to the mountains in Innsbruck, get into The Sound of Music in Salzburg, and experience the food and design in Graz.

And the best part is that it’s not good-bye for long. I’m traveling back next year for supper clubs I’m going to help choose menus for.

I can’t wait to see Austria again, and if you get a chance to visit, I hope you enjoy it as much as I have.

This is an advertising feature with the Austrian National Tourist Office.

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Truth of Traveling

December 25, 2019 By Nicki

10 Day Austria Itinerary

Austria is a beautiful country in central Europe known for the impressive Austrian Alps, beautiful cities, and rich history. We spent 9 nights and 10 days exploring three different parts of Austria. Sometimes when planning a trip the hardest part is deciding how long to spend in a place. So here is our 10 day Austria itinerary including where we went and how long we spent in each place!

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There are obviously so many places we skipped while planning our Austria itinerary. We’ve seen tons of beautiful pictures of Hallstatt all over lately. We always try to remember that just because we don’t see a place this time doesn’t mean we’ll never be back!

One thing that’s important to know about Austria is that almost everything is closed on Sundays . If you need to go to the grocery store definitely plan ahead on both Saturdays and Sundays. Grocery stores will often close early on Saturdays and some are completely closed on Sundays. We learned this the hard way by running around to a bunch of grocery stores in Innsbruck that Google said were open but actually weren’t.

One thing that’s important to know about Austria is that almost everything is closed on Sundays . If you need to go to the grocery store definitely plan ahead on both Saturdays and Sundays. Grocery stores will often close early on Saturdays and some are completely closed on Sundays. In Innsbruck we learned this the hard way by running around to a bunch of grocery stores in Innsbruck that Google said were open but actually weren’t.

We took trains throughout all of Austria and found it to be so convenient! We love traveling with our Kelty 40L and Kelty 44L backpacks so we can get on and off trains easily.

Days 1-4: Innsbruck

Innsbruck is located in western Austria nestled in the Austrian Alps. Because of its location in the mountains it’s a beautiful area! If you’re interested in hiking, skiing or just admiring the mountains then you are bound to love Innsbruck.

We took the train from Ljubljana, Slovenia to Innsbruck using our Eurail Global Passes . It took just over 6 hours but it was so easy to navigate using the Rail Planner App . It’s completely free and we used it every time we traveled by train in Europe.

If you’re flying in from somewhere farther away the closest airport is Innsbruck Airport . The Innsbruck Airport is only about 3 miles from the center of Innsbruck so it’s really quick to get to wherever you’re staying!

What to do in Innsbruck

There is plenty to keep you busy during your time in this beautiful city. We expected Innsbruck to be a small town but it’s much more of a city with lots of shops and restaurants and the bright blue Inn river.

Ride the Nordkette Cable Car

The Nordkette Cable Car takes you up to the Hafelekar which sits at over 2,000 meters in elevation. Known as the top of Innsbruck you get spectacular views looking over the city. The ticket cost depends on which stop you are looking to go to. A round trip adult ticket to Hafelekar costs 38 Euros or $42 USD .

• It’s very pricey which is why we didn’t end up doing it but all the pictures we’ve seen look stunning! If your budget allows this is definitely something to consider!

Walk around the Old Town

The old town of Innsbruck has classic Austrian architecture with so many restaurants and shops. We walked around a little before dinner time and it was bustling with people sitting down to eat or grabbing a drink. Definitely make sure to walk through at least once during your time in Innsbruck!

• It’s very close to the river so if you’re walking or running along the Inn River it’s easy to go in a few streets and be right in the middle of it all!

Natter See Hike

There are so many nearby hikes because you’re in an incredibly mountainous region. We did a lot of research before getting to Innsbruck trying to find a hike that started in Innsbruck. A lot of the ones we did find started in nearby towns that required driving or taking a couple different buses.

The Natter See Hike is a beautiful hike that starts from Innsbruck which makes it really convenient. Depending on where you are staying you can walk to the start or you can take the bus to the Peterbrünnl bus stop .

The Natter See hike takes you through lush greenery, a forest with incredible trees and beautiful pastures. It’s one of our favorite hikes ever! You are completely immersed in nature making it so peaceful. We passed only a few other people on the trail and maybe a few more at the lake itself.

Complete Guide to the Natter See Hike- Everything you need to know to do this hike!

See the Colourful Houses

The colourful houses along the Inn River in Innsbruck are an icon for the city and something you have to see! The different colors of the houses mixed with the bright blue of the river make it a beautiful photo spot. You can find the colorful houses at Mariahilfstraße, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria .

• Because of where the houses are it’s best to view (and photograph) them from the other side of the river so you can get both the houses and the river in a picture!

Days 4-7: Salzburg

Salzburg is located in northern Austria very close to the border of Germany. It has a lot of history and because of it’s location, it’s really easy to visit from Germany!

We took the train from Innsbruck to Salzburg in under 2 hours. There is at least one train leaving every hour so you really have your pick of times depending on how early or late you want to leave.

If you’re flying the closest airport to Salzburg is Salzburg Airport . You can get from the airport to the center of Salzburg by taking the bus either the Obergnigl line (O-Bus-2) or Sam line (O-Bus-10) .

• The cost of bus tickets depend on the type of ticket you’re buying as well as if you buy it ahead of time or on the bus.

We stayed near the Salzburg train station on the east side of the Salzach River and liked that it was close to the train station but also walking distance to the historic center of the city. It was also much more affordable than staying right in the heart so it’s a good option if you’re looking to stay on a budget.

What To Do in Salzburg

Visit fortress hohensalzburg.

Fortress Hohensalzburg is a large fortress that sits overlooking the city of Salzburg on Festungsberg . The fortress dates back over 900 years ago when construction began for Archbishop Gebhard. It can now be accessed by hiking up as well as by taking the Fortress Funicular .

From the Makartsteg Bridge it should take about 15 minutes. Tickets to Fortress Hohensalzburg depend on if you’re walking or taking the funicular one or both ways.

Read More: Day Trip to Lake Bled, Slovenia

Cross the Makartsteg Bridge

The Makartsteg Bridge crosses the Salzach River connecting the northeast part of Salzburg (including the train station) to the southwest part where you’ll find the Salzburg Cathedral and Fortress Hohensalzburg. It’s a beautiful spot for a picture as you can get buildings from the city as well as the towering fortress in the background!

From far away it looks almost a little red or pink. But as you get closer you will realize it’s the hundreds and hundreds of small locks that have been put on the bridge.

Travel Truth : We walked across around 3:30 PM in the afternoon and it was really crowded! Later at night it was significantly less crowded so take that into account if you’re trying to take pictures on the bridge.

See Mozarts Geburtshaus (Mozart’s Birthplace)

One of the top things to do in Salzburg is to see Mozart’s birthplace on Getreidegasse, No. 9 in Salzburg. Don’t worry you will find the house and then see a huge crowd of people standing in front of it taking pictures. You can tour the inside to see the rooms of the house for 12 Euros or $13 USD.

• We didn’t go inside but it’s kind of underwhelming from the outside. There were a huge group of people taking pictures of the outside of the house. If you’re not planning to tour the inside we wouldn’t say to go out of your way just to see the outside.

You can also visit the Mozart Residence where the family lived after moving out of the Getreidegasse, No. 9 house in 1773. Tickets to tour the residence cost 12 Euros or $13 USD.

• If you’re interested in both Mozart’s Birthplace and the Mozart Residence it’s cheaper to buy the combined ticket for both for 18.50 Euros or $20 USD.

See Locations from The Sound of Music

As an avid Sound of Music fan I was so excited to go to Salzburg and see some of the places that were used in the movie. You can actually go on a Sound of Music tour similar to the Game of Thrones tours in Dubrovnik. Or you can simply do some googling beforehand and try to see a few while exploring the city.

The fountain in Mirabell Garden was featured during the song do-re-mi. The Salzburg Residence was featured in multiple scenes including when Maria first arrives at the von Trapp family house.

Read More: 3 Places to Visit in Bavaria, Germany

Days 7-10: Vienna

Vienna is in eastern Austria very close to the border of Slovakia. Vienna has some incredibly intricate and stately architecture. You could easily spend hours just walking through the streets of Vienna taking pictures of all the fancy buildings.

From Salzburg we took the train to Vienna in 2 and a half hours. It was one quick train ride and then we were there! There are quite a few train stations in Vienna so make sure to check which stop is closest to where you are staying.

If you’re flying the Vienna International Airport is about 20 kms southeast from Vienna. There is a train stop at the Vienna Airport to the center of Vienna in about 20 minutes.

What To Do in Vienna

If you keep seeing Wien everywhere and are getting confused don’t worry it means Vienna. Similar to Firenze and Florence in Italy sometimes the English translation is slightly different.

Eat Wiener schnitzel

Wiener schnitzel is so delicious! You can find schnitzel in Germany, Switzerland and all over Austria. But Wiener schnitzel is veal that is specifically from Vienna, Austria. So you can’t find true Wiener schnitzel anywhere else besides Vienna although Wiener schnitzel and schnitzel are often used as synonyms.

Schnitzel is often times pork so Wiener schnitzel is slightly different from other schnitzel you might have had. Wiener schnitzel is slightly more expensive because its unique to the city of Vienna but its still affordable.

We went to Cafe-Restaurant Carmen und Ich and got both Wiener schnitzel and schnitzel to try side by side. Honestly I preferred schnitzel because it tastes amazing and so close to the Wiener schnitzel for slightly less money.

Marvel at Votivkirche

Votivkirche is a neo-gothic style church that was built in the late 1800’s. It’s in the city center so you might even by staying close by to it. You can’t miss it because it stands over 300 feet tall! The style of the building reminded us a lot of La Sagrada Familia in Barcelona.

• There’s a small park on one side of the church with benches to sit and enjoy. It’s just a really impressive building so it’s worth at least walking by.

Wander through the Museums Quarter

The Museums Quarter is a large area where you will find numerous museums and art exhibits as well as restaurants and cafes.

We weren’t going into any of the museums so we just wandered through this area. If you do want to go into any of the museums there are quite a few to choose from! It’s nice that they’re all close together and close to so much more in the city.

Walk through the Naschmarkt

Naschmarkt is a really cool market in Vienna that you should definitely walk through. It has everything from all different kinds of olives and spices, fresh cheese, local dishes and a few sit down restaurants. It’s a colorful and lively market that was really interesting to walk through.

The market is quite large so we spent about 40 minutes walking down the aisles. We got apple strudel which was really delicious for about 2 Euros. Then we also tried nusszelten which is a pastry filled with nuts. We actually thought it was going to be meat filled similar to an empanada but it was a sweet hazelnut filling.

You could easily add days to any of these three places to explore even more. Or if you have even more time go ahead and add in another area of Austria!

Interested in More Posts About Austria? Read Here!

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Privacy Overview

The Richest Austria Itinerary for 5, 7 and 14 Days for First Timers

Getting done with all the tasks from covering all the attractions to finding the best hotels to stay in seems like a daunting task. Not to forget, the set limitations of budget for the 14 days to explore Austria. It looks like you might have to spend a lot of hours doing research for your Austria itinerary.

Do not worry! With our detailed itinerary for 14 days in Austria, you need to simply focus on what you’re going to wear to the trip and look amazing. Our ultimate Austria itinerary will help you with the day-to-day guides on where to visit with refreshment stops, hotel recommendations, and things to do.  

When To Plan Austria Itinerary Road Trip?

We went to Austria several times. The summer months of June through August are ideal for outdoor adventures like hiking and boating in Austria. Although Austria has high temperatures in summer, it is advised to visit the country in early summer or late fall between May and September.  

The weeks around the end of May and the start of June offer a delightful combination of nice weather and fewer tourists. In addition to experiencing the busy but not too crowded towns, you can take pleasure in trekking in the highlands or exploring lakes.

Driving in Austria

If you want the real experience of wading through Austria, the best way is a road trip. The open road and breathtaking scenery are the main attractions of road trips throughout Austria. Imagine looking out the window and witnessing wind-buffed meadows, silent lakes, and the beautiful Austrian alps. Sounds amazing, doesn’t it? 

That is why you should get a rental car to explore the old town while enjoying the picturesque views of snow-capped mountains. However, there are some travel tips to keep in mind while driving in Austria. 

Tips for Driving in Austria

• You should have a permanent driving license and a permit to drive internationally. 
• To drive on the highways, you need a toll sticker (vignette) from the post office or any gas station you find on the way. Note that the vignette is not needed for other national roads (than the hightway)
• Austria offers numerous panoramic mountain routes, such as the Danube valley or Villach Alpine Road, etc. However, you will have to pay toll tax on visiting these places. Taxes vary from 5 to 18€. Google Maps mentions that as “Toll Roads”
• Make sure that you check the weather before you drive up there because it makes no sense if you can’t see anything.
• The roads along the way are generally very good, but you will come across a steep slope when driving through the mountains. 
• Austria does not have a steady price for gas, so avoid getting the tank filled on highways or in small villages to avoid paying double the price.

Austria Road Trip Itinerary

This 14-day Austria road trip explores the best culinary and scenic landscapes. This itinerary is specially designed for those who wish to truly and profoundly experience Austria by road. 

Day 1-3: Start  from Vienna

We will start our road trip in Europe’s cultural center and the Austrian capital, Vienna, which is located on the banks of the Danube river. It is home to countless balls, imperial palaces like the Belvedere palace, and the sound of the music tour. 

After stepping out of the Vienna international airport, you’ll explore all that this beautiful city has to offer and you’ll feel as though time has stood still. The best way to get to the city from the airport will be to take the City Airport Train which will take you to Wien Mitte in 16 minutes.

Day 1: The Classics of Vienna

First things first, you won’t need your car here since the public transportation in Vienna is commendable and convenient. Now, let’s move on to Day 1 of our 3-day trip to Vienna. 

Tour of the Hofburg palace

The Hofburg palace of Vienna is one of the largest historic buildings in the world. It was the winter home to the Austrian dynasty of Hapsburgs for 600 years. Since 1946, this palace offers residence to the Federal President of Austria. 

For cultural and historic information on the palace, you can visit the Sissi Museum which offers comprehensive details about the life of Queen Elisabeth. The museum consists of more than 300 of her personal belongings, including her popular dresses. 

Don’t miss out on the best coffee house in the neighborhood, Cafe Central , for cake and coffee. The ambiance is dedicated to Franz Joseph and Sissi (Elizabeth I). After enjoying the sweet pastries, head on to St. Stephen’s Cathedral. 

Climb to the top of St. Stephen’s Cathedral

The St. Stephen’s Cathedral tower has ruled Vienna’s skyline with its renowned colorful tiled roof since it was built. The Archbishop of Vienna resides in the Gothic church. 

You can visit the church and climb to the top for unrivaled views of the city. After the grand tour, you can head for lunch at Settimo Cielo for an excellent menu and a splendid wine list.  

Take a ride on Weiner Riesenrad

Now, it’s time to move on to Weiner Riesenrad .

Spend your evening on the Giant Ferris Wheel in Vienna which is 65-meter-tall. Enjoy the stunning sunset in the air while taking in the beauty of Vienna city.  After that, you will enjoy your evening at the Vienna State Opera. 

Enjoy the Vienna State Opera

A night at Vienna State Opera is a must when visiting a city with such a rich musical and cultural heritage. With its stunning Neo-Renaissance architecture and interior that resembles a palace, the opera house is one of the best in the world. You can get 40-minute tour guides to understand the historical importance of the structure. 

Day 2: Vienna’s Must-See Places

Stroll the pathways of schönbrunn palace.

To start off our second day of sightseeing, we will visit the majestic Schönbrunn Palace, which will be just a 10-minute car ride from the city center. The 1,441-room Baroque palace is regarded as one of the most significant historical, cultural, and architectural structures built by empress Maria Theresa. The Hapsburgs have lived here as their vacation home ever since the 18th century.

Schonbrunn Palace front Facade at Sunset

You’ll visit 40 of the palace’s exquisitely decorated rooms as you do the tour of the place. One of those rooms will be the Mirror where 6-year-old Mozart performed his first concert. 

Then, you will head on to enjoy the local market at Naschmarkt which is a 10-minute ride by car. 

Enjoy the local colors at Naschmarkt

We’ll visit the Naschmarkt, one of Vienna’s most well-known marketplaces. It has some legacy, having been around since the 16th century. You can find anything here, including international fruits and vegetables, unique spices, all types of cheeses, and seafood.

The market hosts several eateries and food stands that offer Viennese specialties. It’ll be a great way to start your second day of touring Vienna! After you’ve enjoyed the local colors, you will head to the Spanish Riding School . 

Give the horses a visit at Spanish Riding School

The Spanish Riding School is home to Lipizzan horses and it is one of the most famous places in Vienna. The horses and their riders perform training exercises for the visitors in classical dresses which will leave you amazed. Then, you’ll head on to the Schönbrunn Garden .

Relaxing scenery at Schönbrunn Garden

Once you’re done with the interior, proceed to the gardens. Since 1779, the garden has been accessible to everyone. Admire the 8 wonderfully symmetrical, well-kept areas of the Crown Prince Garden along with the Neptune Fountain. 

Also, spend some time climbing the top of the hill of Gloriette for a fantastic sight of the palace and the main square of Vienna.

For an amazing dining experience, please visit the Schönbrunner Stöckl & Dinnertheater in its original setting with their staff dressed as famous characters from the old times. 

Day 3: Vienna’s Hidden Gems

Tour of the rathaus.

Many visitors just walk by this great building but never go inside. The 1800s saw the completion of Vienna’s Neo-Gothic Town Hall, which now houses the mayor’s offices. The Rathaus featured five towers, the greatest of which was the middle one and was topped by a statue of the Rathausman which you can visit for a guided tour.

Then, you can head to Wachau Valley for learning the history of the area.

Hike through Wachau Valley

The Wachau is a UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Danube Valley. It features some of the pre-historic monasteries, castles, and ruins with urban planning. You can visit its towns and villages to see its agriculture, primarily for the cultivation of vines. Head on to take a hike in the valley .

Enjoy the Sunset at Danube Tower

The Danube Tower is a great place to go for a great view in Vienna because it is the highest building in Austria.  You can enjoy a great view of the capital town. The best time to come here is in the evening, when you have a nice cup of coffee and enjoy the sunset. If that’s not enough, head on to the city river cruise. 

Wade away in the City River Cruise

If there is a river cruise opportunity in a city, we always want to take it. The river cruises in Vienna are a peaceful way to see some sights while relieving your feet of the strain and possibly sipping a cold beverage. It will be the best way to end your 3-day trip in Vienna.

Vienna Hotel Recommendations

Steigenberger hotel herrenhof: mid-range.

This hotel is a top pick owing to its ideal location in the heart of Vienna with many historic places within walking distance. The rooms at the Herrenhof are incredibly spacious with a touch of Baroque architecture and Art Déco.

Comfy apartments at Siebertgasse: Budget

Comfy Apartments at Siebertgasse is a pleasant, light-filled lodging. We adore these flats’ warmth, pastel accents, and minimalist aesthetic.

Day 4-6: Hello Salzburg!

It’s time to head to your next stop on your Austria road trip by train, which will take around 2 hours and 30 minutes. In Western Austria, Salzburg offers some of the best views of the Eastern Alps and the Salzach River, which runs through the heart of the city.

Day 4: Café Bazar & Architectural Attractions

Austro-hungarian breakfast at cafe bazar.

Start your day with the Cafe Bazar , a traditional Austrian café located beside the Salzach River. Here you will have a true Austro-Hungarian cafe experience. Then, you can visit the Mirabell Palace and Gardens .

Take a walk through Mirabell Palace and Gardens

Prince Wolf Dietrich built this magnificent castle in 1606 and gave it to Salome Alt, his mistress, as a present. You can stroll through the extensive gardens and peek inside the estate’s common areas.

Magnificent sightseeing at Residenzplatz

Then, head on to Residenzplatz for some beautiful sights. 

After admiring these magnificent sights, make your way to Salzburg’s central plaza, Residenzplatz. Here, you will find the Salzburg Museum, the Salzburg Glockenspiel, a clock tower, and the ancient residence of the Archbishop of Salzburg around a lovely fountain.

We suggest visiting the adjacent Mus Deli after all the sightseeing for the local cuisine at reasonable pricing from 9 €-24 € .

Go up the Hohen Salzburg fortress

Then, go on to visit the HohenSalzburg fortress.  

This structure is the most distinctive feature of the city’s skyline and is regarded as one of the best-preserved examples of its kind in all of Europe. It is perched on a hill with a view of the city. The fortress includes a variety of museums and observation decks where you learn about the background of this renowned fortress.

Pay a visit to the Salzburg Cathedral

It’s time to move on to Salzburg Cathedral . 

In the early 19th century, Salzburg was governed by the Catholic Church, and it wasn’t until 1816 that Salzburg joined modern Austria. Because of this, there are several Catholic churches scattered across Salzburg, but the Salzburg Cathedral stands out above the rest.

Day 5: Traditional Markets & Nature

Wander around schrannemarkt.

Take a trip to the Schrannemarkt if any of your three days in Salzburg falls on a Thursday.  Open-air markets are something you’ll really enjoy exploring. This enormous market, which is right next to Mirabell Palace, is filled with several vendors selling locally made goods and seasonal, fresh fruit.

Visit the famous Salzburg Museum

Spend some time visiting a museum or two to find out more about Salzburg and its most well-known resident, Mozart.  You can choose to go to either Mozart House, the Museum of Modern Art, or the Salzburg Museum. 

Walp up Kapuzinerberg

Take a quick lunch break at Gasthaus Zwettler and head on to Kapuzinerberg .

It’s time to be a little active and walk up Kapuzinberg, the second significant peak defining Salzburg’s skyline. It offers a view of the Hohensalzburg Fortress and the city around it. Then move to Die Weisse for some fresh beers. 

Enjoy a Cold Drink at Die Weisse

The Die Weisse Brewery offers locally brewed wheat drinks along with some seasonal brews. With a full kitchen and a sizable and welcoming beverage garden, it’s a terrific spot to unwind on warm days. If you’d like, you could even stay for dinner there.

Day 6: A Taste of the Alps & Nature

Relaxing walk by mondsee & wolfgangsee.

The lakes Mondsee and Wolfgangsee are your best options if you want to relax or engage in some water sports in the Alpine lake. These are both conveniently close to Salzburg’s city center and are beautiful to visit with a mere 45 minute drive. Enjoy the picturesque views at the lake before heading to the Werfen Ice caves. 

Explore the Werfen Ice Caves & Hohenwerfen Castle

Explore the Werfen Ice Caves if you’re seeking an amazing and engaging experience. These ice caves, which can be found in Werfen, about 40 kilometers south of Salzburg, are simply amazing. You can look for amazing ski resorts in Werfen to enjoy skiing as well.

Hohenwerfen Castle, a historic fortress perched atop a towering hill overlooking the town of Werfen, is close to the ice caves and can be reached within 15 minutes by car.

Hike through the Gollinger Waterfall

Then, you can head to enjoy the beautiful Gollinger Waterfall. 

The Gollinger Waterfall is the ideal destination for a day of hiking. This waterfall, which is about 30 km south of Salzburg, is incredibly spectacular and can be seen after a brief stroll from the parking lot.

Although the waterfall is nearly immediately visible, there is a clearly defined and well-maintained trail that you may use to observe it from vantage angles.

Salzburg Hotel Recommendations

Hotel wolf: mid-range.

In the center of Salzburg Altstadt, the hotel is housed in a structure that was constructed in 1429. Hotel Wolf features comfortably designed colorful rooms with quirky furniture and spotless bathrooms. 

Hotel Flair: Budget

The rooms at this inexpensive hotel are tidy, spacious, and offer a nice view of the city. The hotel is close to Altstadt Salzburg and Salzburg train station, both of which can be reached by walking in 30 minutes.

Day 7-8: Time for the Amazing Hallstatt

With 2 days to spend in Hallstatt, you don’t need to skip any attractions in the city. 

Read Also: How Enjoy Hallstatt in Winter (Budget-Friendly!)

Day 7: The Ice Cave & Heilbronn Cross Loop

We advise fully covering the Alpine scenery on Dachstein mountain during the entire morning and into the afternoon by road. 

After breakfast, enjoy the views from the 5 Fingers Lookout or have lunch on the balcony of the Krippenstein Alpine Lodge. You can take the cable car from the second-level station. You don’t get to eat lunch overlooking a glacier on the summit of a mountain every day.

Spend the day after lunch either trekking between the Alpine lodges or completing the three-hour Heilbronn Cross Loop Trail before heading back to Hallstatt’s main square. 

Grab a leisurely lakeside meal at Heritage Cafe in the evening, but save your appetite for exploration of the town for the day the next day.

Day 8: Hallstatt Hidden Gems

You can fully concentrate on the in-town attractions on your second day. Start the day by taking the funicular with glass walls up Salt Mountain. Move on to Rudolph’s Tower Restaurant for breakfast and then to Hallstatt Skywalk lookout sights. 

Next, take the Salt Mine’s entire 2-hour tour and think about returning to town by way of the Salt Brine Trail, which descends a hill. It is the oldest brine pipe in Europe and dates back to 1670. It takes you through wonderful woodland areas and past a waterfall with breathtaking views of the town. 

After returning to the town’s center, visit the Bone House Chapel , take a round trip, and enjoy a nice lunch in Market Square.

Consider spending a leisurely afternoon by the lake in the Hallstatt style before dinner and renting a boat for the whole experience.

Hallstatt Hotel Recommendations

Fenix hall boutique hotel: mid range.

Fenix Hall is situated in the UNESCO World Heritage town of Hallstatt, about 800 meters from the center.  The rooms have oak floors and an earthy vibe. They are decorated in a contemporary country style and have mountain views.

Salzhaus: Budget

Salzhaus offers lodging with views of the mountains in Hallstatt. It also has water sports amenities. 

Day 9-10: Mayrhofen 

All seasons are wonderful in Mayrhofen, with winter and early spring offering traditional Alpine skiing and a developing ski touring culture.

Day 9: Krimml Waterfalls

If the ravine yesterday amazed you, wait until you see what is the most spectacular waterfall in all of Europe! You can choose how far you wish to travel to see the Krimml waterfalls as they cascade across a number of levels. It is amazing in and of itself that the first sight is a 15-minute walk from the parking.

You might enjoy getting into your hotel and spending a relaxing afternoon after a demanding morning. You can take another hike in the evening in the vicinity of your hotel by enquiring at your hotel reception. 

Day 10: Zillertal Valley

Another feeder town for the nearby ski resorts, is located in the Zillertal Valley in the Tyrol province and you can take a rental car up there. If you have the energy, you can take the cable cars from the city up to the resorts, where there are many hiking routes, although the scenery is beautiful on their own. Spend the day enjoying the snow activities in your ski resort. 

You can wander along the river in the city. Check out Goldkind if you need a suggestion for a dining venue.

Mayrhofen  Hotel Recommendations

Hotel berghof mayrhofen: mid-range.

This hotel features Chalet-style housing along with a restaurant serving traditional Austrian cuisine and a beer garden. For summertime dives, there is also a spa and outdoor pool. The distance to the closest ski lift is approximately ten minutes by foot.

Gasthof Zillertal: Budget

The Gasthof Zillertal provides lodging with the best views. The on-site bar is open to visitors and private parking is cost-free.  Some of the rooms at the Gasthof Zillertal have a mountain view or a river view.

Day 11-13: The Inevitable Innsbruck

Going to Innsbruck will be an overwhelming experience given its rich history, breathtaking scenery, and unique culture. You can take a train to Inssbruck or for the complete road trip experience, you can take the 1 hour drive to the place.

Day 11: Panorama Day

Check out the beautiful golden roof.

The Old Town will captivate history buffs with its ability to transport visitors back to the era of the Habsburg Emperor Maximillian I. The spectacular Golden Roof , composed of 2,657 fire-gilded copper tiles, is a unique vantage point. When exposed to sunshine, it gleams brilliantly gold, therefore its name. Then head on to enjoy the views from Nordketter cable cars.

Take a ride of the Nordkette cable cars

You have to take the Nordkette cable cars in Innsbruck to enjoy the scenic views of the city. It is a funicular that features stations that also feature works of art by the late architect Zaha Hadid.

Let your eyes sparkle at Swarovski Crystal Worlds

Next, take a toll in the Swarovski Crystal Worlds . 

The crystal company Swarovski is well-known to everyone. But not many people are aware that you can tour a museum, theme park, and exhibition area that showcases everything Swarovski! You must visit Swarovski Crystal Worlds to appreciate it, since some of its exhibits are simply extraordinary!

Day 12: Ambras Castles and Alpenzoo

Visit the famous ambras castle.

Innsbruck can also pride itself in its magnificent collection of royal palaces and Medieval architecture. One such building that supports this is the Ambras Castle . While entering the Ambras Castle will undoubtedly be a memorable historical experience, it is undoubtedly a pleasure to view.

Read Also: 19 Incredible Castles in Austria You Should Visit

Say Hi to the animals at Alpenzoo

The Alpenzoo is distinctive in that it exhibits Alpine animals in a setting that is similar to their natural habitat. Even when the animals are curled up in their winter caves, you can see them through viewing windows.

Enjoy the Bergisel Ski Jump

You may already be aware that the Winter Olympics were held in Innsbruck twice. It shouldn’t be surprising that the Bergisel, one of the most recognizable ski jumps in the world, is located in this popular area for skiing and other outdoor sports, which makes it a must-visit.

Return to Old Town Innsbruck after a strenuous day of hiking, and locate the Stiftskeller. Locals and visitors enjoy eating at this sizable restaurant in the form of a Biergarten. It’s a fantastic way to meet people because the tables are lengthy and are shared by different groups of people. 

Day 13: Discover Bad Ischl

It’s time to visit Bad Ischl , a city in Upper Austria that is also known as a spa town. Stroll along the Esplanade to take in the town’s royal splendor. Sit outside on a café patio to take in the opulent mountain views and majestic palaces.

The Museum of Bad Ischl offers a glimpse into regional history. Look for historical sites like Trinkhalle and the St. Nicholas Church, which is built in the Baroque style, in the town center. Kaiserpark has other artifacts from Austria’s imperial past on exhibit. Visit the lavish chambers of Kaiservilla, the summer residence of the Habsburg family.

If none of that appeal to you, then you can spend the day relaxing in one of the best spas in Austria. 

Innsbruck Hotel Recommendations

Eurothermenresort: mid-range.

The Salzkammerguttherme Thermal Spa is directly attached to this 4-star hotel in the center of Bad Ischl. The five dining rooms of the Hotel Royal provide traditional Austrian cuisine. The bar offers a large selection of cocktails and other high-quality beverages.

Sonnhof: Budget

The Sonnhof is a hotel near to the Bad Ischl train station and across from the Salzkammerguttherme Spa Center. It is surrounded by a park with old trees. The Sonnhof’s beautifully decorated rooms all come with balconies and a scenic view.

Bonus 1 (Extra Stops) Bavarian Alps

The Eastern Alps, more especially the Bavarian Alps, are a portion of the Alps that are located in Germany with spectacular views of the Alps. A lovely country like Bavaria is one that you should definitely visit. 

If not for the weather, then at least for the breathtaking scenery. Couples can enjoy some of Germany’s most beautiful scenery and a genuinely romantic experience in Bavaria.

Day 14: Back to Vienna

It’s the last day of your road trip and it’s time to get back to Vienna. But that doesn’t mean that your trip has come to an end. There’s still time to visit two more attractive places. 

Bonus 2: Day Trip from Vienna to Bratislava

The city of Bratislava has had many different identities over the course of its history, but it has ultimately evolved into the vibrant and eccentric capital of Slovakia that you see today.

Read Also: Vienna to Bratislava by Bike : An Amazing Journey!

For your one-day trip from Vienna to Bratislava, here are some things that you would enjoy:

• A walk to the Bratislava Castle
• Old town hall museum
• Wander around the charming medieval streets
• Spend time at the Blue Church and Pink Palace
• Skim through the Bratislava Christmas markets
• View the sunset at Ufo Tower

Final Thoughts about Austria Itinerary

Your ultimate 14-day itinerary for a road trip through Austria is now complete!  You’ll be able to take in all the natural beauty and cultural richness that Austria has to offer with this itinerary. So, what are you waiting for? Book your tickets and head on to visit the best places in Austria.

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Best Places To See In Austria – 10 Day Itinerary

This 10-day itinerary crosses the country from east to west, taking you through a variety of landscapes, exploring the best places to see in Austria.

Austria is one of the most beautiful countries in Europe. From cities filled with over the top Baroque architecture and charming little villages to green hills and snow-capped mountains, Austria has a lot to offer. If you imagine mountain pastures with cows, women in dirndls, and jugs of beer, when you think of Austria, you’d be right.

Austria is filled with Sound of Music type idyllic settings like these, but there is so much more to the country. Each region has a distinct style, character, and highlights. 

It all starts in Vienna

There is no more fitting place to start a trip through Austria than in the capital Vienna. Everything about Vienna breathes old European glamour : wide lanes lined with buildings of white marble, gold, and green copper rooftops. Between the opulent Baroque palaces stand to impose Gothic churches.

But don’t let the elegance fool you, behind the exterior of Opera and fine arts, lies a young, vibrant, and hip city. 

Vienna is a dream for lovers of art, culture, and architecture and you need at least two days to visit all the highlights. Here are a few things to do in Vienna you absolutely can’t miss:

• See the splendor of the Austrian-Hungarian Empire in the Imperial Suites in the Hofburg Palace
• Dive into the wealth of historic and modern art at Museumquartier
• Enjoy the greenery of the Stadtpark city oasis
• Catch a show at the Vienna Opera

If you plan on checking some of the excellent museums in Vienna, it is worth investing in a Vienna Card. 

While Vienna has an excellent public transportation system, you’ll need a car to reach the best places in the rest of Austria. So, once you have taken in the luxury and glamour of Vienna, it is time to hit the road.

Drive through the vineyards of Wachau

To the north of Vienna lies Austria’s premier wine region: Wachau. The gentle slopes of the Danube Valley lend themselves perfectly to the cultivation of vines. Austrian wines may not have the same world fame as Italian or French vintages, but they produce some quality whites.

Most notable are the Grüner Veltliner and ultra-dry Welschriesling. On the other hand, Austrian food isn’t bad either.

Start by driving to Krems an der Donau at the northern end of the Danube Valley. Follow the Danube south with the sparkling blue water of the river to your left and rows of green vines to your right.

Occasionally, you’ll spot an abbey or castle perched on a hilltop. There are several lovely towns on the banks of the Danube, but Dürnstein is particularly worth a stop.

Walking through this little village is like stepping into a storybook. The narrow streets and colorful houses look like they belong in a fairytale. Hike up to the ruins of Schloss Dürnstein for a different perspective on the valley.

Although the Danube continues, the valley ends at Melk, famous for its beautiful Baroque abbey. Take a look if you’d like and then proceed to your final destination of the day: Steyr.

Medieval romance in Steyr

Steyr is one of those places where time has seemingly stood still. The picturesque Medieval historical center of Steyr is perfect for a romantic evening stroll. Be sure to take in the view from the Schwischenbrücke that connects the two old parts of the city.

After spending the night here, we get to our first real hike. Right below Steyr lies the Kalkalpen National Park, an imposing mountain range. There are lots of routes running through the National Park, including a few long-distance trails.

One of those is the Luchs trail, a 200-kilometer trail through the Austrian wild and the habitat of its namesake the lynx. The second stretch of the Luchs trail offers one of the most scenic hikes in the Kalkalpen. A 7-hour route takes you along waterfalls, flowery alms, a chapel, and several viewpoints to take in the splendor of the Kalkalpen.

Every Austrian town has a “house mountain,” the mountain closest to the city where locals go for a stroll on the weekends . For Steyr, this is the Damberg. For a shorter and less demanding hike, walk to the top of the Damberg and climb the watchtower for an even better view. This will take around an hour. You can add a hike to the neighboring Spadenberg if you want to increase it to 4 hours. 

Take in the lakes of Salzkammergut

After hiking, it is on to the Salzkammergut. This region used to be mined for salt and is home to some of the most beautiful landscapes in Austria.

Stay overnight in Bad Ischl before exploring this area the next day. The Hapsburgs used to summer here in their beautiful palace to enjoy the fresh air and the natural hot springs. 

The Salzkammergut, one of Austria’s hidden gems , is famous for crystal clear lakes between dramatic mountains . Avoid the over touristic Hallstatt and instead, take the road along the stunning Wolfgangsee to Salzburg.

Let Salzburg sing to you

Salzburg is a city of music as both the birthplace of Mozart and the setting for The Sound of Music. In the summer, Salzburg is the stage for the Salzburger Festspiele, an annual theatre and music festival.

In winter, the city turns into a winter wonderland with some of the best Christmas markets in Europe.

The rich history of Salzburg warrants a two-day stay to see all the sights of this charming city. Explore the pretty streets of the Old Town a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the beautiful churches and palaces and for the best sunset views, hike up the Kapuzinerberg. 

The true Austrian mountains of Tirol

Today, we are finally getting to the most famous region of Austria: Tirol. The steep slopes of Tirol are already a favorite among skiers , but they also lend themselves to some spectacular hiking during the summer.

The road to Tirol will take you for a quick trip across the border to Bavaria and back. Take in the view as the mountains get higher and higher the closer you get to the small town of Fieberbrunn.

Fieberbrunn is a typical skiing town during the winter and quiet during summer. Spend the night and rest up for a two-day hike in the Tiroler Alps.

From Fieberbrunn there are several hikes you can do. I recommend hiking to Wildseeloder. The walk takes you through different types of terrain: a forest that ends in alms, which in turn fades into a barren rock. The hike up to the 2118 peak offers a stunning panorama of the surrounding mountains and valleys. For a more leisurely walk, there is a cable cart available that runs to about halfway up the hill. Adventurers can supplement their hike with some rock climbing as well. 

The only thing better than reaching the top of a mountain is waking up there. Book an overnight stay at the Wildseeloderhaus for excellent Austrian food and an incredible sunrise view. Let the crisp mountain air reinvigorate you for your hike down the other side of the mountain.

To make sure you enjoy the Austrian mountains to its full potential during your hike, it is paramount to have all the correct equipment to make sure you stay safe and warm in the bitterly cold climate of Austria.

The better you prepare for the conditions the more you will want to stay at the peak of the mountains rather than regretting the hike and trying to get down in a hurry. We will quickly highlight what is needed when hiking in Austria:

The priority should be to ensure you and those alongside you are safe. This may include paying for an experienced guide to accompany you through the trek, therefore staying safe while showing you the incredible views of the Tirol mountains. Secondly, you need to make sure you are prepared.

It is vital to carry water to keep hydrated, a first aid kit in case of accidents that could occur on the hike, and finally, your warmth is imperative. A warm and comfy coat can make the experience much more enjoyable and it can also be used all around Austria to combat the harsh weather conditions.

Other key items to make sure you take are comfy walking shoes, energy bars, and a bag to ensure the scenic mountains are not littered with your rubbish.

You will want to remember the Austrian mountains for its magnificent views and not remember it for nearly turning you into an icicle!

On your way back to Fieberbrunn you’ll meet a few friendly cows and, if you’re lucky, even an Alp marmot.  Once you’re back in the car, it is all systems go to the next literal highlight.

Drive the best road in the world

The Grossglockner High Alpine Road is the best in the world. Don’t take my word for it, it was named so by several sources, including Top Gear. This road runs through the Alps, connecting the regions of Salzburg and Carinthia. It winds up to the Edelweisspitze at 2000 meters in 36 breathtaking turns.

Here it’s all about the journey, not the destination, as the panoramic views of the Austrian Alps will make you want to stop and take pictures at every bend. As you climb higher and higher, you can see the Grossglockner mountain, which at 3798 meters is the highest mountain in Austria. 

From here, keep driving in Austria on to the final stop: Innsbruck.

Last, but not least: Innsbruck

Austria is a country where history and traditional culture are still very much alive. You’ve seen it in the dirndls and farmhouses, the palaces of Vienna, the historic center of Steyr, and the ancient mountains of Tirol. But there is also a young and modern side to Austria and Innsbruck is its undisputed center.

Innsbruck is a small University city with colorful nightlife and a rich alternative cultural scene. Take a day to explore the part of the Altstadt that survived the Second World War and learn more about traditional Austrian culture at the Volksmuseum.

At night, take in the alternative art and hip nightlife. This is where our itinerary ends, but it doesn’t have to be the end of your trip.

Surrounded by mountains on all sides, Innsbruck lends itself perfectly as a base for hiking and day trips into Tirol and the Vorarlberg region . You have seen the best of Austria, but you certainly haven’t seen it all.

Contributing members are responsible for the accuracy of content contributed to A World to Travel.

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10 Days Austria Travel Itinerary

Disclosure: Some of the links in this post might be affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase I will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Explore the provinces Salzburg and Upper Austria, with some day trips to Styria and Carinthia with this ten days in Austria Itinerary. You will visit the cities, mountains, picturesque towns and see the most beautiful sights.

This Austria itinerary focuses on the middle of the country. You can easily add some days at the end to also visit Austria’s capital Vienna.

For this itinerary, you will need a car. If you don’t have one – and can’t rent one – then you can still use this itinerary as an inspiration because it includes many interesting places. It is possible to visit all of these places using public transport.

Austria Itinerary Summary

Day 1: salzburg.

• Day 2: Hallstatt & Dachstein

Day 3: Graz

• Day 4: Sankt Wolfgang & Gmunden

Day 5: Loserberg hike

• Day 6: Linz & St Florian Monastery
• Day 7: Filzmoos & Zell am See
• Day 8: Gipfelwelt 3000 & Sigmund Thun Klamm

Day 9: Lienz or Bad Gastein

Day 10: grossglockner high alpine road.

Austria Itinerary Map

You can find all places and highlights mentioned in the itinerary in my Austria Google Map .

How to start your trip?

If you’re coming from another country in Europe, you can drive to the starting point of this itinerary: Salzburg. 

If you’re arriving in Austria by air, then see if you can fly to Salzburg Airport or Linz Airport, as the first part of this itinerary takes place near these cities. For international flights, Vienna Airport is a likelier destination. If you arrive at Vienna Airport, simply rent a car and head towards Salzburg and Linz. This will take about two and a half hours for Linz and just over three hours for Salzburg. Along the way there is plenty to see and there are many interesting places to visit.

Where to stay in Austria?

While it is possible to move to a new hotel or apartment every few days, I’d recommend to only stay at two places during this trip.

See if you can find an apartment near Bad Ischl, Bad Goisern or Bad Aussee for the first six days. This will put you in between the cities Salzburg, Graz and Linz, so that you can visit all of them with a one to two hour’s drive. Hallstatt, Dachstein Krippenstein and Sankt Wolfgang im Salzkammergut can be reached within half an hour.

Haus Loserblick

I stayed at a beautiful holiday home in Lichtersberg near Altaussee. It is a bit pricey but very comfortable with a sauna and a spacious living room and kitchen. As a bonus: you can go hiking from here and the Loserberg mountain is only one toll road away.

For the second part of the trip, days seven to ten, it is best to stay near Zell am See and Kaprun.

Holiday Home Stocklgut

I stayed in a holiday home in the small village Niedernsill . It was less luxurious than the previous home, but it was spacious and the lady of the house provided us with milk from her own cows every day (paid service) which was nice.

10 Days Austria Itinerary

Click on the links in the day descriptions for more information about the highlights.

On the first day of your trip you will explore Salzburg. Salzburg is the ideal destination for those who love history and architecture. This is where it happened. From being the location of a Roman settlement, to becoming the seat of the archbishop and the center of the counter-reformation. It is only the fourth biggest city in Austria, but it is thriving. Salzburg’s historic centrum is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is also the city that Mozart was born in.

Park your car in one of the parking garages on the northeast side of the river. On and around the Linzer Gasse you will find many fun, modern cafes. On this side of the river you can visit the Maribell Palace , Mozart House and the Capuciner Monastery on top of the hill. From this hill you have a great view of the grandiose buildings that stand on the other side of the river.

After crossing the river, take a stroll down Getreidegasse ; Salzburg’s touristy and chic shopping street. Its location is no surprise, as this street is very close to the beautiful Dom of Salzburg (Cathedral), many museums and the university. Near the oldest bakery in Salzburg, you can take the castle train up to Hohensalzburg Castle to explore the castle town on top of the hill. From here you have a great view of the buildings on both sides of the river.

Last but not least, after you get back to ground level, you can visit the Petersfriedhof Graveyard and Catacombs ; my highlight of the day.

Read more: Things to See in Salzburg

Day 2: Hallstatt & Dachstein

Drive to Hallstatt and park your car at one of the parking lots south of town. Hallstatt is one of the most picturesque towns in Austria. It is charming and has a great panoramic view. At the northern end of the town, you can take a picture of the town and lake against the backdrop of the Dachstein mountains. This is the ‘one and only’ picture that every tourist has to take back home.

The town itself is perfect eye-candy material: beautiful wooden houses – some older than others – built against the mountain, colorful houses near the market square, and a church with an interesting stone wall. Hallstatt deserves its fame.

At Hallstatt, you can also visit Salzwelten on top of the hill; one of the most well-known salt mines in Austria. You can explore the tunnels, learn about salt, and view Hallstatt from above from the viewing platform nearby.

From Hallstatt, you drive in fifteen minutes to the parking lot of the Dachstein cable car station. Dachstein Krippenstein is well-known and loved as a skiing destination, but don’t let that fool you: the Dachstein mountains are a great place to visit in summer as well. (And fortunately, ‘summer’ lasts until November opening time-wise). Visit the Giant Ice Cave and the Mammut Cave and take some great pictures at Dachstein 5fingers and the World Heritage Spiral .

Today’s destination is quite far. Depending on where you are staying it might take around two hours to reach the city of Graz. Graz is the second biggest city in Austria; a university city known for its Old Town that is one of the best-preserved city centers in Europe. You can find Graz in the province of Styria in the south-eastern part of Austria at a two-hour drive from Vienna.

Park your car in one of the many garages (can be very narrow) near the Old Town or the Kunsthaus. From here you can explore the city center on foot. First, head to the Old Town of Graz to see the colorful buildings with various building styles. 

Number one of my favorite sites in Graz is the double spiral staircase in the government building near the north-eastern side of the Old Town of Graz. Such interesting architecture giving you the feeling that you can endlessly climb up into the sky. As both stairs meet briefly at every level, only to separate again later, it is no wonder this staircase is called the “staircase of reconciliation”.

Near the double spiral staircase are the Mausoleum of Emperor Ferdinand II and the Dom of Graz . Two imposing buildings with majestic allure next to each other. 

A visit to Graz is not complete without climbing the stairs or taking the elevator to the castle overlooking the city. On top of the Schlossberg , you can find some interesting structures like Clock Tower (Uhrturm), the Chinese Pavilion , the Schlossberg stage , and the Gothic Gate . From the viewpoint you can see the intriguing building that houses Kunsthaus Graz .

On the way back home you can make a small detour to visit the Red Bull Ring if you are a fan of motorsports.

Day 4: Sankt Wolfgang & Gmunden

On the fourth day you will visit two nearby towns. Sankt Wolfgang im Salzkammergut is a pleasure to explore. Its colorful housing and shops selling local delicacies and other (winter) products give the town a winter wonderland charm. Even on a sunny day with a blue sky. There’s a shop selling air-dried ham for an afternoon snack and other shops selling everything you could possibly need for a cold winter.

The biggest tourist attraction (but not trap!) is the Schafbergbahn , an old railway track that takes you to the summit of the Schafberg . This railway track – with the bright red train – has been in use since 1893. From the peak of the Schafberg, you have a panoramic view of the Wolfgangsee and the Salzkammergut mountains. I do recommend taking the first ride up the mountain, because that leaves you more time for sightseeing in Gmunden.

If you are short on time – or just having a great time in Sankt Wolfgang im Salzkammergut – you can also choose to make a short stop in Gmunden on day six or skip the town altogether. I visited Gmunden as one of the much needed breaks on the day I drove from the Netherlands to Austria.

Gmunden is a small town that is best known for the beautiful photos you can take of the lake surrounded by the mountains. On a small island in the lake, connected to the mainland by a bridge, sits Schloss Ort , a small castle that is often used as a film location in movies.

What would a trip to Austria be without hiking?

The Loserberg is an 1838 meters high mountain in Ausseerland in Austria. It is a place that is well-known as a ski resort, but – among tourists – less as a place to go hiking. There are plenty of short and longer hikes available. Some of the shorter hikes can be combined into one long hike and there is also plenty of space to simply wander.

You can start the hike of your liking from the parking lot of the Loser Alm restaurant at 1600 meters. To get there, follow the Loser Panoramastraße ; a zigzagging toll road of 9 km from Lichtersberg near Altaussee. If you are looking for a short hike, then the Augstsee roundtrip, the Bräuning Alm roundtrip, and the path to the Loserfenster are perfect for you. For a longer hike, you can continue to the Loserberg summit from the Loserfenster.

After your hike, head to the Blaa Alm for a nice meal at a restaurant surrounded by forest and grass fields with a relaxing outdoor seating area and a playground for kids. You can also explore the nearby town Altaussee and relax near the lake.

Day 6: Linz & St Florian Monastery

Drive in an hour or so (depending on where you are staying) to Linz , the third biggest city in Austria after Vienna and Graz. The city of Linz is the most important industrial city in Austria. For tourists, it is probably more interesting to know that Linz was named the cultural capital of Europe in 2009. And it shows.

Visit the Old Town to see the Landhaus , Kremsmünstererhaus , Old and New Cathedral and the Trinity Column on the Main Square .

After sightseeing in the Old Town and exploring the beautiful buildings there, it is time to visit something completely different, namely the Mural Harbor of Linz . In this harbor, you will find one of the biggest open-air exhibitions in Europe. Free art and plenty of open space against a unique background all ready for you to explore.

You can combine a visit to Linz with a visit to the St. Florian Monastery nearby. From Linz, you can drive to St. Florian in less than half an hour. St. Florian is the largest monastery in the province of Upper Austria. It was founded in the early ninth century and refounded by the Augustinians in the 11th century.

Day 7: Filzmoos & Zell am See

A trip to Austria would also not be complete without a hike (or drive) to a mountain hut and a hearty meal. Look no further: the Oberhofalm near Filzmoos is a perfect example of a mountain hut. Either park your car in the valley and hike to the mountain hut, or pay a small fee for the toll road and park in front of the restaurant. Filzmoos is on route to your next holiday home in the Zell am See / Kaprun area. 

The town Zell am See is located next to a large lake that lends itself perfectly to all kinds of water sports activities. Zell am See is a bustling town in high season, but blissfully – ghostlike – quiet in low season. Wander the streets and go shopping at the clothing stores and shops selling local delicacies or have a drink in a restaurant or cafe. In winter, this town is a perfect base for skiing in the area, for example on the Kitzsteinhorn.

Day 8: Gipfelwelt 3000 & Sigmund Thun Klamm

Head to the Kitzsteinhorn cable car station to take the glacier jets to the panorama platform Gipfelwelt 3000 . From the ‘Top of Salzburg’ you have a great view of the alps, especially in summer when it is not snowing. At the top you’ll also find a small alpine museum and a restaurant with a view. For the ski enthusiasts among you: on the Kitzsteinhorn you can often ski as early as October.

If you have some time left after your visit to Gipfelwelt 3000, you can head to the Sigmund Thun Klamm ; a naturally shaped gorge with water that flows beautifully. You pass the entrance of this gorge on your way back to Kaprun.

Alternative: Stausee

You can also choose to visit the Stausee on this day if you prefer a warmer destination that is better suited for hiking. To get to the Stausee, you drive past the Kitzsteinhorn valley station towards Bergrestaurant Mooserboden, a restaurant located next to the alpine lake Stausee Mooserboden. In this area you can go for a walk, hike the herb trail and have a meal at the restaurant.

The Stausee can only be visited during the summer season (until mid-October). Do pay attention to the interactive information board on the 168 road near Kaprun to see if the road to the Stausee is open. If there is an avalanche warning, you cannot visit the lake. If the road is open, you can park at Kaprun Stauseen Parkhaus and take the shuttle bus from there.

Lienz and Bad Gastein are your alternative options if the weather is bad on one of the other days. So feel free to move another day’s activities to day nine if needed.

Lienz is a city with a colorful city center that often has great weather. If the weather isn’t great around Zell am See and Kaprun, then head to Lienz, a town south of the Grossglockner mountain. From Kaprun, it is about an hour and a half drive to Lienz, either through the Felbertauern Tunnel or by crossing the Grossglockner Hochalpenstraße (closer to two hours).

In Lienz you can relax in the colorful city center and see Schloss Liebburg , the Antonius Church , an Old Smithy and the Old City Wall and Tower . Outside of the city center you can pay a visit to Schloss Bruck , a castle built on top of the hill dating back to the 13th century.

Alternative: Bad Gastein

Are you looking for a relaxing day? Then head to Bad Gastein , an area full of wellness resorts . Spend your day relaxing in the saunas and thermal baths surrounded by the alps.

Today is the last day of your roundtrip, so let’s end the trip properly with a scenic drive. The Grossglockner High Alpine Road is the highest surfaced mountain pass in Austria: a zigzagging road with amazing views. Go on a road trip and see the beautiful alpine landscape from the car and the many sights and viewpoints, such as the Fuscher Törl Memorial, Edelweißspitze, Hochtor and the Kaiser-Franz-Josefs-Höhe .

When you reach the end of the Grossglockner High Alpine Road you come upon the village Heiligenblut . Heiligenblut is advertised as a beautiful, charming, and picturesque village. Picturesque, sure, though no more than Hallstatt or Sankt Wolfgang im Salzkammergut . Charming? No. Not in October when all the restaurants are closed or under construction. Heiligenblut is only worth a visit in the high season. 

On the other hand, as it only takes five to ten minutes to see the village, there is no reason to skip it either. Snap your perfect picture of the Gothic church with the Grossglockner mountains in the background as a souvenir.

From Heiligenblut, you take the Grossglockner High Alpine Road back to where you came from. 

You’ve reached the end of this Austria itinerary. If you can spend more time in Austria, then you can continue your trip in or near Vienna or in the west of the country.

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5 to 10 Day Itinerary for Austria (Totally Customizable!)

By: Author Taylor Lorenz

Posted on Last updated: 10/26/2023

I feel that far too many people skip Austria, or opt to just go to Vienna, but not for a good reason! Austria’s location makes it an easy destination to visit and with the mix of history, architecture, drinks, and cuisine in this country, you can easily spend plenty of time here and not get bored.

If you’re short on time, 5 days will take you to the top spots that most people want to visit. But if you can stretch your time out here, a week or 10 days in Austria will take you to the highlights more in-depth. This itinerary for Austria covers where to go, what to do, where to stay, and my recommendations as someone who has been to Austria multiple times. Enjoy!

Table of Contents

Austria Fast Facts

Austria is a part of the EU (European Union) and has been since 1995. It’s a small country and is easy to travel to from the surrounding countries, which also makes day trips to or from Austria extremely easy as well!

• Currency:  Euro (€)
• Languages:  German, with many dialects, and English is widely spoken
• Capital: Vienna
• Population:  8.9 million
• Religion: Christianity is the majority

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Austria Itinerary

I’ve laid out this itinerary so that you can choose one of the routes I recommend below or I give you what you can expect to do on a day-to-day basis so you can pick and choose which days suit you and your travel style best.

5 Days in Austria

• Vienna (2-3 days)
• Salzburg (1-2 days)
• Day trip to Hallstatt

7 Days in Austria

• Vienna (3 days)
• Salzburg (2 days)
• Innsbruck (2 days)

10 Days in Austria

• Wachau or day trip from Vienna to Bratislava, Slovakia
• Salzburg (2-3 days)

Breakdown of My Austria Trip Itinerary

Vienna: 2-3 Days

Vienna is the largest city in Austria, and with so many notable places to visit in Vienna , and a number of day trips can be done from here so be sure to plan enough time! 2 days in the city can be done, but I recommend 3 days in Vienna so it’s not a rush. Because when in Vienna, do as the Viennese do and take your time, enjoy the cafes and culture.

DAY 1: Begin your trip to Austria where the royals did, in the old town. Spend the day roaming through the cobblestone streets and popping into cafes, lounging in parks, and visiting churches and museums. I recommend beginning the day with a walking tour to get your bearings (I personally did this tour and recommend it), tips for the rest of your time in Vienna, and to understand the history of this magnificent city and how it’s laid out.

Other highlights for day 1 I recommend are visiting St Stephen’s Cathedral and climbing the tower to the top for views over Vienna, having a slice of the famous sacher torte at Sacher Cafe , and visiting the Sisi Museum to see some of the Imperial Apartments in the Hofburg Palace .

DAY 2 : Just a few kilometres outside of the city centre you’ll find Schönbrunn Palace , which is a highlight of Vienna. This yellow summer palace is where you can explore more ornately decorated rooms as well as the gardens, tea house, a zoo, and even an apple strudel show! You could easily spend a whole day here, but half a day will suffice too. In the afternoon some options are Belvedere Palace which is a museum that houses some of the most famous pieces by Klimt. Other options include indulging at the Naschmarkt , a local market, hitting up the rides and ferris wheel at Prater Park , or having some sweets at one of the famous cafes such as Demel or Cafe Central. In the evening, head to the opera to see inside the opera house and a show for only 10 euros!

DAY 3: All of the above is a lot to do in 2 days, so whatever you don’t get to, plan to do today. But some additional options are enjoying a cruise on the river , watching the Spanish Riding School practice or put on a show, visit one of the many, many other museums, catch a Mozart show in the beautiful Karlskirche , join a food tour , or do a day trip to Bratislava . You’ve got options.

Where to Stay in Vienna

Budget: Wombat’s City Hostel Vienna Naschmarkt Modern, clean, and fun, Wombat’s hostels are a great option for all kinds of travellers. This Vienna hostel offers small to mid-size dorm rooms and private rooms with the option for a private bath in a great location that is walking distance to many attractions and within minutes of a subway stop.

Mid-Range: Hotel IMLAUER Wien From this hotel you’ll be able to walk to most places in Vienna in 20 minutes and under, or a subway stop is within minutes of the hotel. It’s on a quiet street and is very spacious for a hotel in Europe. I’ve personally stayed here and recommend it.

Luxury: Hotel Sacher Wien Luxury and opulence ooze out of this centrally located hotel that is apart of Viennese history. A stay here is truly a treat with the Vienna Opera House and pedestrian-only walking streets right at your doorstep.

Wachau: 1 Day

You have two options for visiting the Wachau Valley. It’s possible to do it as a day trip from Vienna, or spend a night in one of the towns along the 40km or so stretch of the area along the Danube. Some would prefer to do a day trip so it’s not a hassle to pack luggage and move it again. Since Wachau Valley is only about an hour from Vienna, it’s really not a long journey to travel back to Vienna and then onto Salzburg the next day, so it’s completely up to you!

If you opt to stay in Wachau, Melk and Krems are easily accessible by train which would make having baggage easy to deal with. These two points are perfect for if you’re doing a day trip on your own, arriving at one and departing from the other, if you choose not to do an organized day trip .

If doing it on your own, you can visit plenty on foot or by renting a bike. Winery hopping is an obvious choice, and the Melk Abby is a must-see as a highlight not only in Austria, but in all of Europe. Consider jumping onto a cruise too to take in the small towns from the water.

Salzburg: 1-2 Days

If you can only visit 2 places in Austria, make it Vienna and Salzburg! This small city is deserving of at least 2 days but if you can only fit in a day, it’s still absolutely worth visiting.

DAY 1: I always suggest a walking tour of European cities to begin anywhere because there are so many things you can miss just walking around yourself. This tour specifically was awesome. Afterward, head to the Salzburg Cathedral for 12:05 to watch and listen to the organs being played for 20 minutes in an intricate and grand church. After lunch, make your way up to the Hohensalzburg Fortress . But instead of going directly there, head to St. Erhard . You will find some stairs on your way there, take them and behind the church are great views of Salzburg and the mountains. From here you can walk back out to the stairs but don’t go down, stay left and you’ll find yourself at the fortress within a few minutes. Continue your way to the Museum der Moderne Salzburg (you’ll stay above the city so don’t go all the way down). There is a lovely walk connecting the 2 and ask for directions to avoid getting lost like I did! End your day with some Salzburger nockerl , a dessert famous in Salzburg.

DAY 2: You could do a Sound of Music tour which is widely popular or continue exploring the city. In the city there are still the main shopping streets to explore, Getreidegasse and Linzer Gasse , as well as the Mirabell Gardens and Palace . Museums such as the Christmas Museum and Mozart’s Birthplace are both right in the old town and cafes such as Cafe Konditorei Fürst (where you can find the original Mozart chocolate balls) and Cafe Bazar are top spots to treat yourself. A river cruise is a relaxing and informative way to learn more about the city too. A cruise can also bring you to Hellbrun Palace , yet another highlight of Salzburg that’s not too far from the city centre. This palace has a few tricks up its sleeve so consider yourself warned!

Where to Stay in Salzburg

Budget: The Keep Eco Rooms An eco-friendly hostel with down to earth decor and modern amenities. The location of this hostel is amazing, within walking distance to the train station, minutes walking to Mirabell Palace, and less than 15 minutes to the old town. Small dorms and private rooms are available. 

Mid-Range: Altstadt Hotel Stadtkrug A stylish and centrally located hotel right on one of the main walking streets of the old town, here you’ll be able to roll out of bed in comfort and be at most of Salzburg’s main attractions or restaurants in 5-10 minutes on foot.

Luxury: Radisson Blu Hotel Altstadt You’ll be hard-pressed to find a location better than this. Tucked away in the old town not only is everything literally at your doorstep, but you’ll also have the option of beautiful views of the river. Old world charm with a touch of modern make this hotel one to feel fabulous in.

Hallstatt: 1 Day

Tours from Salzburg to Hallstatt are only half a day, which could work amazingly with your schedule. You’ll enjoy scenic drives in and out of Hallstatt and free time in the town to explore at your own pace and visit some of the highlights such as the view from the entrance to the salt mines and the Bone House . Hallstatt is not big so you don’t have to worry about not having enough time!

However, if you’re able to do the trip yourself, it’s best. Also in Hallstatt are ice caves and the Dachstein Mountains , both of which you can access via cable car and aren’t included in day trips. Renting a car is easiest, but taking the bus will stop close to the cable car. The train is also an option with a short ferry across the lake to town. If driving, get there early as parking fills up very fast and is limited.

Innsbruck: 1-2 Days

I recommend spending at least a day and a half in Innsbruck as the time it takes you to get up to the mountains will eat away most of a day, and you’ll most likely want to spend more time up there once you are there! Innsbruck is quite small though, so it’s very easy to enjoy at a leisurely pace while still seeing it all. Check the weather and whichever day has the best weather opt to travel up the Nordkette Mountains .

DAY 1: If the weather permits, get yourself an Innsbruck card (this is the only city I found it to be well worth it) and hop on the cable car up to the Austrian Alps! First, from the city centre you’ll take the funicular to Hungerburgbahn. After a few stops (one of which is the Alpine Zoo ) you’ll arrive at the last station, Hungerburg Station , and make a short walk across Hermann Buhl Platz, which already has amazing views, to the cable car station. There are 2 stops on the cable car and both are most definitely worth visiting. The first stop is Seegrube , where there is a restaurant and a number of trails leading off to hikes and climbing. There are easy trails here, you do not need to be a hiker to enjoy the easy 20-40 minute Trail of Perspectives.

Travel further up on a second cable car to Hafelekar to reach the top of Innsbruck after another short and easy hike. There is also a restaurant here where you can dine while watching the paragliders (or try paragliding yourself ) float through the sky.

Come back down into town, grab some lunch and then make your way over to Bergisel Ski Jump which was built for the 1964 Olympics. After the walk across town and up a hill, you’ll be rewarded with even more views of Innsbruck, but from the other side of town. You can go up to the viewing platform at the top of the ski jump and there is a restaurant here too to treat yourself to a nice cool drink.

DAY 2 : Spend most of the day in town today wandering the streets of the old town and seeing the main highlights. The Stradtturm is a tower that will take you to the top of the old town for yet more views! The Court Church (Hofkirche) is a museum and church that has the grandest and most elegant tomb I’ve ever seen. The Innsbruck Cathedral is of course worth a wander over to, and Hofburg Innsbruck is the imperial palace. Undoubtedly you will walk by the most famous attraction in Innsbruck, the Golden Roof , which is also a museum. And lastly, be sure to walk along the water and see the views of the colourful houses. All of these Innsbruck attractions are within walking distance of each other so you will have enough time to them all in less than a day.

But be sure to leave time for visiting the Swarovski Crystal Worlds Museum . Yes, it is quite touristy, but it is so well done and is something I highly recommend checking out. With an Innsbruck card , you will have a shuttle bus from the train station or in town to the museum as it’s just outside of town.

If time permits, you may want to join a Tyrolean evening of food and entertainment or find yourself some delicious local cuisine and a beer or Radler in a beer garden or while in view of the Golden Roof.

Where to Stay in Innsbruck

Budget: MEININGER Hotel Innsbruck Zentrum Right by the old town, this part hostel, part hotel, is a fun and funky option for those who are looking for a more social atmosphere. Both small dorms and privates for a variety of group sizes are available.

Mid-Range: Hotel Neue Post This hotel has a stellar location where the train station is within a 10-minute walk and you enter the old town as soon as you cross the street. Comfortable beds, easy, contactless check-in and breakfast on-site if you’d like make this mid-range option a top choice.

Luxury: Altstadthotel Weißes Kreuz A luxurious room with a view of the Golden Roof? Yes, please! With amazing views, stellar decor, and a better-than-ever location, don’t pass up on the opportunity to stay here.

Best Time to Visit Austria

Austria can be visited any time of the year thanks to the number of activities, both indoors and outdoors that change or continue to stay open during the changing of seasons. From May until September is peak tourist season, the best weather, and perfect for sightseeing. It’s during this time that the streets of the cities will be bustling and hiking on the alpine trails will be free of snow.

Come in the shoulder seasons, April or October and you will be rewarded with fewer crowds, cooler weather, and discounted prices on flights and accommodation. Lastly, and not to be overlooked is late November and into December when Christmas markets in Austria light up the cities and towns.

Austria Budget

For those who are looking to travel to Austria on a budget you can expect to pay around €75 a day. This is if you’re staying in hostel dorm rooms, which are €25+ a night, are eating out but mostly street food or from cheaper restuarants only (approx. €5-10 per meal), which leaves you €30 or so a day for activities, special splurges or travel. Keep in mind this is tight but there is also wiggle room. If you’re willing to cook for yourself you’ll save more, couchsurf, or aren’t so much into the main tourist sites you’ll save a lot!

For those with a mid-range budget, expect to pay around €150 a day. This is a comfortable mid-range budget that allows for a mix of private rooms in hostels (€75+ per night) or hotels (€100+ per night), a mix of street food, cafes, and sit down meals (€5-25 per meal), and €50 per day for activites and transport.

For those who are looking for some luxury, plan to spend around €250 per day or more. Luxury is defined differently to everyone and Austria certainly has some amazing hotels, such as the Sacher Hotel in Vienna or Salzburg, that may well be worth the spluge for you!

How to Get to Austria

By air is the obvious choice if visiting from overseas or travelling from a distance within Europe. It’s best to fly into Vienna as it’s the largest airport and is a great place to kickstart your Austrian adventure.

By Train or Bus

If travelling from Switzerland, the south of Germany (such as Munich), or Italy, it would be ideal to take the train to Innsbruck to begin your journey. From Slovenia or Croatia, hop on a bus to Graz or Vienna.

Getting Around Austria

Train is by far the best way to travel around Austria, especially with this itinerary. Austria’s national rail operator, OBB , is one of the best in Europe. It’s clean, with free wifi on board, food cars, and it’s comfortable. For intercity travel, you’ll be connected from city to city in a manner of hours, typically 1-3 hours max. Be sure to also check out Westbahn , which is a great rail operator too and offers competitive prices.

Note that if you’re travelling between Austria and surrounding countries check the other national rail operators as OBB is known for being nice but also pricey. For example, Deutsche Bahn (DB) if travelling to or from Germany.

For the majority of travellers to Austria it is not necessary to rent a car to get around because the rail network is so spectacular. That being said, if you plan on heading up into the mountains, to some off-the-beaten-track destinations, or up to alpine huts, a car may be necessary.

Before renting a car keep in mind it is quite pricey in Austria. While some drives into the mountains are absolutely stunning, they are not for the faint of heart. Some areas in the winter months do require snow tires or chains, and some roads and highways it is mandatory to have a toll sticker, so be prepared! Lastly, make it clear when renting a car if you need an automatic or not as lots of rentals are manual.

Bus travel in Austria is most popular to the more remote regions. The only time you may need to use a bus with this itinerary is to Hallstatt. The bus and train schedules tend to work with each other well. You can find schedules on Post Bus or Flix Bus .

Within Cities

Do not stress about travelling around within the cities or places you visit. Most places are walkable or offer easy-to-use buses or streetcars if you wish to visit places that are outside of city centres. Vienna you will most likely use transport but their subway system is extremely easy to use and purchasing a ticket at machines within stations is translated in a number of languages, including English.

Travel Insurance in Austria

Where to Go in Austria

For the purposes of this itinerary, we’ll stick with Austria’s main cities and towns so that you can get a great overview of the country.

Vienna: An absolute must when visiting Austria, Vienna (Wien in German) is one capital city that can’t be passed up. Roam through the streets of the city centre to meander past intricately decorated buildings, stumble across towering churches, past cafes where locals take their time, and around the Hofburg Palace that is the centre of town. I could go on about Vienna forever as it is one of my personal favourite cities, but just take my word for it that a trip to Austria is not complete without a stop in Vienna!

Salzburg: Steeped in history, the birthplace of Mozart, and picturesque, Salzburg is most certainly a tourist hot spot in Austria. Don’t let the fact that this city is touristy deter you though. Salzburg is quite charming despite the crowds and is a place where you will find restaurants, cafes, and a number of viewpoints to relax, take in the scenery and slow down while surrounded by the beauty of nature and the architecture.

Innsbruck: Innsbruck is truly the best combination of a place for those who love the city and the outdoors. Towering over this small city is the Nordkette Mountain Range that provides ample space for hikers, mountain bikers, and climbers alike to enjoy. The best part? It’s all accessible via cable car in about 20 minutes or you can start hiking right from the edge of town. The old town is rich in history, full of beautiful buildings, and restaurants serving delicious Tyrolian dishes and drinks.

Hallstatt: A town that is well-known around the world, many will come to Austria just to witness the beauty of this small town nestled among the mountains, the Salzkammergut Mountains, that also sits along a lake. Hallstatt is Austria’s picturesque views at its best. And with mountains so close by, there’s more to do here than just roam through the town itself. Head up towards the Dachstein Mountains in a cable car and take in the incredible views from above too.

Wachau Valley: Wine lovers this is your spot. Just west of Vienna along the Danube you’ll find Wachau Valley which is dotted with towns and wineries, abbeys and castle ruins. Day trips from Vienna are common here, and while many recommend renting a car to explore this region, biking from winery to winery is a top option too.

Graz: Often overlooked due to its location in the southeast of the country, Graz is a great stop if coming from the south, such as Slovenia or Croatia . Graz is Austria’s second-largest city and while it holds a ton of history and well-preserved Renaissance and Baroque architecture in the old town, it’s also a lively city due to the number of universities that are in and around Graz. For the purposes of this itinerary, Graz is not included but mentioned here for those coming from the southeast of Austria.

How Long to Spend in Austria?

Austria may be a small country, but that doesn’t mean that you should spend less time! 5 days in Austria I would suggest as the bare minimum. This will give you time to explore 2 cities. A week in Austria is ideal and will allow you to see 3 cities, and do a day trip or two, depending on how long to spend in each city. However, adding on a few days or a week and a half in Austria will lend you to a more leisurely pace and take you to some destinations that are less frequented.

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Born To See The World

Austria itinerary: 7,10 and 14 days.

Austria, a land of captivating history, stunning alpine landscapes, and a rich cultural heritage, beckons travelers with its diverse attractions and vibrant cities. Nestled in the heart of Europe, this enchanting country offers a plethora of experiences for visitors, whether they are seeking imperial grandeur in Vienna, exploring the picturesque lakes of Salzburg, or immersing themselves in the charming alpine towns of Innsbruck. From the opulent palaces and classical music traditions to the breathtaking mountain vistas and outdoor adventures, Austria enthralls visitors with its unique blend of old-world charm and natural beauty. Whether you have 7, 10, or 14 days, embark on an unforgettable journey through Austria and discover the treasures that await in this captivating country.

7-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Vienna - Explore the historic city center, visit Schönbrunn Palace, and enjoy a classical music concert in the evening.

Day 2: Salzburg - Take a train to Salzburg, visit Mozart's birthplace, explore the Mirabell Palace and Gardens, and enjoy the views from Hohensalzburg Fortress.

Day 3: Salzburg Lakes - Take a day trip to the picturesque lakes region around Salzburg, such as Wolfgangsee or Hallstatt.

Day 4: Innsbruck - Travel to Innsbruck, visit the famous Golden Roof, explore the Old Town, and enjoy the Alpine scenery.

Day 5: Tyrolean Alps - Take a cable car up to Nordkette and enjoy the panoramic views, or go hiking in the surrounding mountains.

Day 6: Graz - Travel to Graz, visit the historic Old Town, see the Schlossberg, and explore the museums and galleries.

Day 7: Wachau Valley - Take a day trip to the Wachau Valley, visit the charming towns of Melk and Dürnstein, and enjoy a boat ride along the Danube River.

10-Day Itinerary

Days 1-4: Follow the 7-day itinerary mentioned above for Vienna, Salzburg, Salzburg Lakes, Innsbruck, Tyrolean Alps, and Graz.

Day 5: Hallstatt - Take a day trip to the postcard-perfect village of Hallstatt, known for its stunning lake and mountain scenery.

Day 6-7: Bregenz and Lake Constance - Travel to Bregenz, visit the Bregenz Festival (if available), and explore the beautiful Lake Constance region.

Day 8-9: St. Anton and Arlberg - Head to St. Anton am Arlberg, a renowned ski resort in winter and a great destination for hiking and outdoor activities in summer.

Day 10: Linz - Visit Linz, explore the charming Old Town, and visit the Ars Electronica Center, known for its interactive exhibitions on art, technology, and society.

14-Day Itinerary

Days 1-10: Follow the 10-day itinerary mentioned above for Vienna, Salzburg, Salzburg Lakes, Innsbruck, Tyrolean Alps, Graz, Hallstatt, Bregenz, Lake Constance, St. Anton, Arlberg, and Linz.

Day 11-12: Eisenstadt and Burgenland - Travel to Eisenstadt, visit the Esterházy Palace, and explore the vineyards and nature reserves of Burgenland.

Day 13-14: Klagenfurt and Carinthia - Head to Klagenfurt, explore the city, and enjoy the beautiful lakes of Carinthia, such as Wörthersee or Millstätter See. Take time for outdoor activities and enjoy the stunning alpine landscapes.

Do you need a custom itinerary tailored to your wishes and needs? Use our Trip Planner tool.

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How to Plan the Perfect Road Trip in Austria

Are you planning to go on a road trip to Austria and still looking for some great itineraries? Then I got you covered!

Austria, is the land of the mountains and land of the lakes. I could not think of a more perfect country for a road trip than Austria.

The country is relatively small, so you can reach any place in no time. The streets are in great condition and driving in Austria is easy. If you are planning on taking a road trip through Austria and don’t have an idea yet on what to see – I got you covered.

I have lived the first 27 years of my live in Austria – and I know the country like my backyard.

I have created the perfect Austria road trip itinerary for 10 days, a week as well as just four days that will take you on the most scenic routes!

Keep on reading to find your perfect itinerary for Austria.

Table of Contents

Driving in austria – things you need to know, how to get around austria, day 1: vienna, day 2: vienna – hallstatt – salzburg, day 3: salzburg, day 4: graz, styria, day 1: overnight stay in vienna, day 2: drive towards salzburg and stay overnight, day 3: salzburg – zell am see, day 4: zell am see – hallstatt – schladming, day 5: schladming – wörthersee, day 6: heading to graz for another night, day 7: return to vienna, day 3: spend the night in zell am see, day 4: innsbruck.

• Day 5: Innsbruck – Hallstatt – Schladming

Day 6: Klagenfurt am Wörthersee

Day 7: south styrian wine route, day 8: graz, overnight stay, day 9: graz – vienna overnight stay, where to stay in austria on road trips, how much time do i need for a road trip in austria, what is the best time for an austrian road trip, how much does a trip to austria cost, more road trip itineraries, conclusion: road trip in austria, faq: road trip in austria, about the author.

This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you. Read my  disclaimer  for further information.

🚗 Austria has a toll system on the highways. It is important to check if you are headed towards a road with a toll. Make sure to buy a pass at a gas station beforehand! Most rental cars however do have one anyway. You can also pay the toll online .

🚗 Driving in Austria is relatively easy. However, in winter the roads can be difficult.

🚗 Make sure to have snow chains in your car if you are planning on driving in the mountains.

🚗 During winter months, you are obliged to put winter tires on your car. If you have year-round tires, like we do, you are legally fine, but driving gets difficult.

🚗 Our max speed limit on the highway is 130 km/h. If there is no sign, then this is your limit (unlike in Germany, where you have no limit).

🚗 In most places in Austria you can easily park your car. In the bigger cities, such as Vienna, there is underground parking, but it will cost you.

If you don’t have your own car, I suggest picking up a rental car at the Airport or the train station. Getting around Austria by train is not ideal, rural areas are not well connected.

We always book our rental car with the platform Discover Cars. They have reliable and cheap cars – or luxury vehicles.

You can find a great car for your taste and budget on that website. It is the best Austrian car rental search engine you can find.

Make sure to pick a car appropriate to the seasons – you need to be careful, especially in winter.

Do I need Travel Insurance for Austria? Yes, Travel Insurance is always recommended. While Austria per se is not unsafe, it is necessary to have Travel Insurance in case of sickness or accidents. EKTA offers worldwide coverage at amazing prices – without any hidden fees or clauses.

1. Four Days in Austria – Road Trip Itinerary

Four days is not a lot of time for a country like Austria, but I still feel like you can see plenty on a four-day road trip in Austria.

The most important places to see in four days are Vienna, Hallstatt , Salzburg, and parts of Styria .

Where to Stay

Steigenberger Hotel Herrenhof Vienna

• 5 ***** Hotel
• Amazing Location
• Charming Rooms
• Sauna & Fitness

Vienna is definitely the most important place to see during your road trip in Austria.

Spending a night in Vienna is enough time to see the most important sights, such as Schönbrunn Castle, the Hofburg , and the Belvedere .

Especially in Summer, Vienna is extremely beautiful and there are many amazing things to do! You can stroll along the Danube River, taste exotic dishes at the Naschmarkt, and enjoy an open-air concert.

In Winter, Vienna is also quite special. Christmas markets and sparkly lights everywhere make it totally worth a visit.

Make sure to spend at least one night in Vienna, as there is much to see.

Start your drive towards Hallstatt . The drive takes about 3 hours and will lead you through a fabulous landscape of rolling hills, impressive mountains, and stunning lakes.

At the end of your drive, you will reach the stunning city of Hallstatt. Going to Hallstatt from Vienna by car is the best option. You can find parking in the small town, just a couple of steps from the main square.

Hallstatt is a famous 16th-century town located right on the beautiful lake. You will roughly need three hours to tour the town and check out the Skywalk and the World Heritage Museum as well as the market square .

If you visit in winter, you can see the beautiful Christmas market in Hallstatt . The landscape in winter is especially beautiful, it is my favorite time to visit.

After Hallstatt, I suggest heading towards Salzburg, where you will spend the night. It is about an hour’s drive to Salzburg.

Boutiquehote l Amadeus

• 4 **** Hotel
• Uniquely Furnished Rooms
• Parking Nearby

The beautiful city of Salzburg is definitely worth a visit and has a lot to offer.

Check out the Mozart house in the Getreidegasse and the castle Hohensalzburg .

You can even take the Sound of Music Tour, especially if you’re a movie buff. Otherwise, you’ll love a tour through the Old Town; it’s like a fairy-tale.

Mirabell Castle and Gardens in Salzburg are some of my favorite spots to see.

Make sure to buy some original Mozart-Kugeln when in Salzburg. They are a local delicacy.

In the evening you should be headed towards Graz. I have marked a route with a scenic drive through Austria below, that takes you right through the impressive Dachstein glacier area.

Palaishotel Erzherzog Johann

• Stunning Location
• On-Site Parking
• Great Breakfast

Graz is a very picturesque city and the capital of the country Styria.

Graz is famous for its medieval town square as well as a clock tower on a small hill. Make sure to hike up there for an amazing view.

If you love shopping and rooftop terraces, head over to Kastner & Öhler. They have a great restaurant on the roof and some amazing shopping downstairs.

For people that have enough of Austrian cities, I suggest visiting the countryside in South Styria instead. You’ll find thermal spas and vineyards in this area.

Race fans will probably want to drive by Spielberg, to see the famous Formula 1 Race-Track.

In the evening of the next day, you will be headed back towards Vienna, where your 4-day Austria road trip ends.

2. A Week in Austria – Road Trip Itinerary

Spending a week on a road trip in Austria is a great amount of time. You can add some amazing stops for the perfect Austrian road trip.

The extra days allow us to add some more stops to the 4 days in Austria itinerary, such as Zell am See and Klagenfurt am Wörthersee. Both are super picturesque places that are totally worth a visit.

Please refer to the 4-days in Austria Road Trip Itinerary for information on Salzburg, Graz, and Vienna.

Elements Resorts Zell am See

• Free Parking
• Outdoor Pool

On the third day you will be heading towards the beautiful city on a lake, Zell am See . There you will also spend the night.

Zell am See is a famous Austrian town located right on a lake and nestled in between an impressive mountain range.

In summer this is a beautiful place to swim and hike , whereas in winter you have access to some of the finest skiing slopes in Austria.

Take the gondola up to Schmittenhöhe for panoramic views.

This is a great place to stay in a fabulous mountain spa hotel and do some relaxation before your next stop.

Falkensteiner Hotel Schladming

• Impressive Location
• Mountain View
• Indoor & Outdoor Pool

Take the scenic route via Hallstatt to Schladming. Spend the day in Hallstatt before heading over to Schladming.

Stay overnight in Schladming. Make sure to add the Dachstein Glacier . It is one of the most impressive mountains in Austria. I prefer visiting the Dachstein over the Hohe Tauern National Park because it is more accessible.

You can visit an Ice Sculpture Museum, a Sky Walk as well as the Stairway into Nothing .

Schladming itself is a super cute town. You can have coffee in the town square and enjoy the beautiful view.

Werzers Hotel Pörtschach

• Seaside Location
• Amazing Restaurant

Your drive will lead to Klagenfurt am Wörthersee, where you will spend another night.

The Wörthersee is a beautiful lake located in the south of Austria and is a famous tourist attraction. The water is clear blue, and there are many impressive castles located around the lake.

You can either explore Klagenfurt itself, which is a beautiful city, or spend the day at the lake. There are a couple of cute towns around the lake that are worth visiting.

Check out Velden, Maria Loretto and Pörtschach. If you love hiking, make sure to walk up the Pyramidenkogel for a stunning view.

3. 10 Days in Austria – Road Trip Itinerary

10 days is an amazing time to spend in Austria for a road trip. In 10 days you can see most of the country, so I definitely suggest staying this long.

In addition to all the amazing stops you can see on the 4-day road trip in Austria and the one-week road trip itineraries, there are many more gems to be discovered. Please refer to the stops above for hotel suggestions and tour ideas.

Seeing the capital city of Tyrol, Innsbruck as well as the famous wine region of South Styria are on the agenda!

Hotel Innsbruck

• Great Location
• Fabulous Spa
• Nearby Parking

On the fourth day, head towards Innsbruck, the capital city of Tyrol.

Innsbruck is famous for its impressive architectural highlights as well as the proximity to the Nordkette Mountain range. Innsbruck is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

You must stop by the Golden Roof as well as the Ambras Castle in Innsbruck. The Old Town and the Hofkirche are also super popular.

Stay overnight. On the next day, start driving toward Schladming.

You will pass by the famous town of Kitzbühel on your way back, where the legendary Ski race “ Hahnenkammrennen ” is being held.

The perfect road trip through Austria itinerary definitely has to include Innsbruck!

Day 5 : Innsbruck – Hallstatt – Schladming

Vitalhotel der Parktherme

• Comfy Rooms
• Free Spa Entry

Check out the South Styrian Wine Street. This is a great place to visit in Austria in the fall.

This area of South Styria is famous for its beautiful thermal spas and many vineyards. My favorite thermal spa is Parktherme Bad Radkersburg. Relax there for a day, and enjoy the regional delicacies.

Make sure to visit the Herzerlstrasse as well as a typical Buschenschank. Stay overnight.

You can find great accommodation anywhere in Austria online. Either refer to my suggestions above or find great deals via Booking.com

Make sure to check if they have on-site parking ( Parkplätze ) available. In bigger cities, you might find that most hotels collaborate with the parking garages nearby. The rates will be reduced for hotel guests.

Booking.com is my preferred website for booking hotels in Austria.

The duration of a road trip in Austria can vary depending on your interests and the places you want to visit. Refer to my Austria self-drive itineraries above to get a rough idea of what you want to see.

The ideal amount of time to spend on an Austrian road trip is around 7 to 10 days. This gives you enough time to explore some of the must-see spots.

If you are short on time, you can see a few things in abou t 4-5 days in Austria . I think a 3-day road trip in Austria is not ideal, but you can see the basics: Vienna, Salzburg, and Hallstatt.

The longer you stay, the more time you will have for smaller villages and hikes or winter sports. 2 weeks or more is a great amount of time to spend in Austria.

The best time for a road trip in Austria is typically during the spring, summer, and early autumn months. The weather is pleasant, and most tourist attractions are open.

There is no such time as a bad time to visit Austria by car. But driving in Austria in winter does have its challenges. Only opt for an Austrian winter road trip if you are up for it.

Spring (April to June): This is a beautiful time to visit as the weather starts getting warmer, and the landscapes are lush with blooming flowers. You can enjoy outdoor activities and explore the cities without extreme heat or cold. On an Austrian spring road trip you will see many flowers for sure.

Summer (June to August): Summer is the high tourist season in Austria. The weather is warm, and it’s a great time for outdoor adventures like hiking, biking, and swimming in the lakes . However, be prepared for larger crowds at popular tourist spots. An Austrian summer road trip definitely has its charms.

Early Autumn (September to October): This is a fantastic time for a road trip if you prefer milder weather and fewer tourists. The fall foliage in the Austrian Alps is stunning, making it an ideal time for scenic drives and hiking. Plus, you can enjoy wine festivals in the wine regions (Especially in South Styria).

The cost of a trip to Austria depends on your travel style, duration of stay, choice of accommodations, dining preferences, and activities.

Here is a rough estimate of daily expenses for a mid-range traveler:

• Accommodation: Expect to spend around EUR 80 to EUR 150 per night for a mid-range hotel or guesthouse. Luxury hotels are around EUR 350 per night
• Food: Dining in Austria can range from affordable to upscale. On average, plan to spend around EUR 25 to EUR 40 per person for meals at restaurants. More expensive restaurants charge about EUR 80 per person.
• Transportation: If you’re road-tripping, consider fuel costs, tolls, and parking fees. Gasoline is about EUR 1,50 per liter. Parking is usually included in the hotels. It is free in the countryside and about EUR 50 per day in cities like Vienna. Austrian Toll (Streckenmaut) is about EUR 30 including tunnel passes.
• Sightseeing: Entrance fees to museums and attractions can vary, but the budget is around EUR 10 to EUR 20 per visit. Many cities offer sightseeing cards that provide discounts on multiple attractions.
• Activities: The cost of activities like hiking, skiing, or guided tours will vary. Skiing is the most expensive activity in Austria. It costs you about EUR 80,00 per day (including passes and meals).

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There are many possible ideas for your perfect road trip in Austria. Seeing Austria by car is amazing – and in my opinion, the best way to explore the country.

Whether you are looking for the best scenic drives in Austria or a great winter road trip itinerary, this blog post got you covered.

Some classics, like Vienna, Hallstatt, and Salzburg need to be on every Austria itinerary. They are beautiful in winter and in summer and are some of the best places to visit in Austria.

Whether you are going to Austria for four days, seven days, or even ten days – you will have a great time exploring in the car. I hope you enjoyed my Austria Travel Itineraries as much as I did – or maybe just checked in here for some Austrian vacation ideas.

Austria is a country with nice streets and even nicer destinations – perfect for a road trip. If you have not gotten enough of driving yet, why not do a Northern Italy Road Trip next?

No, 2 days is not enough for Austria. In two days you can cover the capital city of Vienna or perhaps the iconic village of Hallstatt. If you want to see more of the country, I suggest staying at least for a week in Austria.

The most famous road in Austria is the Grossglockner High Alpine Road.

Yes, you can drive in Austria without a vignette. However, as soon as you enter a motorway or an expressway, you need to buy a vignette. If you stay on smaller roads, you do not need the vignette.

The best way to explore Austria is by car. Many of the greatest spots in Austria are not reachable by public transport, so you definitely need a car. The car infrastructure in Austria is great, and you can find affordable parking everywhere.

The distance from Vienna to Salzburg is approximately 295 kilometers (183 miles) when traveling by road. Keep in mind that this distance can vary slightly depending on your specific starting and ending points within each city and the route you take. The road trip between Vienna and Salzburg typically takes around 3.5 to 4.5 hours by car.

Tyrol, which is a region in Austria, is approximately 400 kilometers (about 248 miles) west of Vienna when traveling by road. The specific distance can vary slightly depending on your starting point in Vienna and your destination within Tyrol. Driving from Vienna to Tyrol typically takes around 4.5 to 5.5 hours.

Driving across Austria, from its eastern border with Hungary or Slovakia to its western border with Germany or Switzerland, can take approximately 4 to 6 hours. I recommend taking your time and stopping in between Vienna, Salzburg, and Hallstatt.

You can either pay for it online in the Asfinag Mautshop (carefully, needs to be done 14 days in advance) or at any gas station. If you have a business, you can immediately validate it online. Austrian tunnel tolls can also be bought online or directly at the stops after the tunnel.

To put an Austrian Vignette on the car, you have to take the adhesive part and press it against the windshield. It needs to sit in the top part of the windshield, below any tinted areas. You may not have more than 3 vignettes there. You can also buy the digital vignette instead.

Yes, driving in Austria is quite easy. Roads are in great condition and parking spaces are freely available. Driving in Austria in winter can be a bit challenging, due to snow and ice. Be sure to have appropriate tires in that case.

To drive in Austria you need a valid driver’s license, vehicle papers, and registration, vignette (toll stickers), Reflective Vest, and Warning Triangle. First-Aid Kit, Winter Equipment, and Identification. Travel insurance is also a great idea.

Sabrina is a passionate travel blogger and content creator, based in New Mexico. She spends about half the year traveling to various destinations with her husband.

She provides slow-paced itineraries that focus on quality over quantity. Sabrina wants to help her readers to get more out of their travel experiences – while doing less. Read more.

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Europe ‎ > ‎ Austria ‎ > Best of Austria In 1 Week

• Top 10 Austrian Castles
• Best of Austria In 1 Week

Best 1 Week Itinerary for Austria:

One week itineraries for Austria really depend on the mix of sights you want to see.  Some visitors will want to spend their entire 7-10 days relaxing deep in the Alps, while others want to focus on some of Europes best museums, but we like to do a mix of both by using Vienna and Salzburg as base camps to explore the country.  We’ve put together a core suggestion to spend one week in Austria plus options to extend your time to a full 10 days based on our own first-hand experiences.

Related : Itineraries For Salzburg

Related : Itineraries For Vienna

Flight & Arrival Flexibility:

One thing to note on our suggested itinerary for one week in Austria is that you will have flexibility with your flights and will not be limited to a round trip to and from Vienna.  Salzburg has its own airport for inter-Europe destinations and is only 2 hours from both Innsbruck and Munich’s international airports.

Other major airports within striking distance include Prague and Budapest at a 3-4 hour train ride from Vienna and are worth an addon stop before or after Austria.  We typically fly into one airport and out of another to help you avoid wasting time backtracking.  The most common combination we do is into Prague for a few days, then train to Vienna, and fly home from Munich after Salzburg.

One Week In Austria:

The structure of how we suggest dividing a one-week itinerary in Austria is at a fairly moderate pace.  There may look like you are seeing a lot per day, but because you are only switching hotels once you will maximize your time a lot better.  Because both Salzburg and Vienna have compact pedestrian cores you see most of the main sights in each in two to three days without feeling exhausted.  We like to stay one day longer in Salzburg than Vienna as it offers a few more easy day trips options of mountains, lakeside villages, ice caves, and castles that you’ll want to mix into your schedule.  Below we also have some further suggestions on other cities you can blend in to bump you one week in Austria into a longer trip.

•Day 1: Vienna ( Stay In Vienna ): Begin your day by following our Free Vienna Walking Tour including Saint Stephen’s Cathedral, a Vienesse coffee, and time at the museums including the Hofburg.  In the afternoon also work in some of our Vienna Tram Tour which is easy to hop on and off and makes a loop around Old Town ( Stay in Vienna ).

•Day 2: Day Trip From Vienna ( Stay In Vienna ): Leaving in the morning take a Day Trip From Vienna .  In a half of a day, you can see either the Kreuzenstein Castle, Liechtenstein Castle, or Melk Abbey.  You can also stretch a Melk visit into a full day affair by returning by boat to see some of the wine towns along the Danube River.  We like to focus on days trips that are within two hours from Vienna, and typically avoid Bratslavia as there isn’t much to do there.

Once in Hallstatt, we suggest touring the Salt Mines if you get to town before they close and fitting a couple stops from the Hallstatt Free Walking Tour if you’re not too tired. ( Stay in Vienna ).

•Day 3: Vienna ( Stay In Vienna ): In the morning head to the stunning Schönbrunn Palace for a tour of the inside along with time strolling the grounds.  In the mid-day through the afternoon pick up anything you missed day one and consider seeing Belvedere Palace & Other Additional Attractions ( Stay in Vienna ).

•Day 4: Salzburg ( Stay In Salzburg ): After breakfast in Vienna, take a morning train to Salzburg then follow our Free Salzburg Walking Tour .  You’ll be able to tour Mozart’s Birthplace and the Salzburg Cathedral while mixing in Sound of Music Film Locations 1-11 and visiting the Augustiner Monks Brewery.  Salzburg is very compact so seeing a lot on foot day one is easy to do without feeling exhausted.  When we stay in Salzburg for more than a day, we like to see the entire core of Old Town at a comfortable pace and save visiting the High Castle above town for a separate day ( Stay in Salzburg ).

•Day 5: Day Trip From Salzburg ( Stay In Salzburg ): On your second day in town it is nice to take a short Day Trip From Salzburg .  The first one you will want to choose between three of them including Berchtesgaden ( 45-minute bus ride ), Werfen ( 45-minute train ride ), or Munich ( 90-minute train ride ).  For us all three options are fairly equal with mountainous Berchtesgaden having Kings Lake and the Eagles Nest, Werfen having a stunning castle plus the world’s largest ice cave, and Munich has a wonderful old town and unique beer culture ( Stay in Salzburg ).

•Day 6: Visit Hallstatt As A Day Trip ( Stay In Salzburg ): One of the best things of staying in Salzburg is the chance to use it as a hub to fit in a number of great day trips.  With 4 days to work with, using the middle days for back-to-back Day Trips From Salzburg is totally reasonable.  The best of the day trips is Hallstatt , which we like to do second after you are more settled in as it is further away.  Power travelers will be able to fit in both the  Ice Cave with the 5 Fingers Lookout plus a tour of the Salt Mine .  Slower pace travelers will have to decide between the two options for the first half of the day followed our Free Hallstatt Walking Tour  and time strolling the lakefront in the afternoon ( Stay in Salzburg ).

•Day 7: Salzburg ( Stay In Salzburg ): For most visitors, the last day for your one-week itinerary in Austria is best served as a relaxing day to finish up any remaining sights in Salzburg to end your trip feeling refreshed.  Picking up from our first full day in Salzburg you can visit one of the delightful cafes like Sacher, tour the High Castle above Old Town, and see the Sound of Music Film Locations 12-14 along with the trick fountains at Hellbrunn Palace ( Stay in Salzburg ).

With 10 Days In Austria:

If you are able to stretch your one week in Austria out to 10 days, there are a number of great options to re-work your suggest itinerary and get more out of your time.  Overall, we like to add one additional day to Vienna from the 7-day option, stay overnight in Hallstatt in the middle, and still finish out vacation in wonderful Salzburg.

•Days 1-3: Vienna ( Stay In Vienna ): See our one week in Austria info above with one of the castles as your set Day Trip From Vienna , ( Stay in Vienna ).

•Day 4: Day Trip From Vienna ( Stay In Vienna ): Stay in Vienna one day longer and take a second day trip by visiting Melk Abbey followed by a cruise down the Danube River through the Wachau Valley before returning to Vienna in the evening, ( Stay in Vienna ).

•Days 5: Hallstatt ( Stay In Hallstatt ): Instead of seeing Hallstatt  as a day trip from Salzburg, having just over a week in Austria lets you stay overnight and really experience it.  Because it is nearly a 4-hour train ride from Vienna, you’ll have to leave early so you have time to drop off your bags at your hotel and Tour The Salt Mine .   in the early afternoon along with the World Heritage Skywalk.  In the evening you will be able to stroll the village , the option to rent a boat, and a lakeside dinner is a must. ( Stay in Hallstatt ).

•Days 6: Hallstatt ( Stay In Salzburg ): Walking up in Hallstatt on day you’ll want to leave your bags at the hotel after breakfast and head up to Dachstein Mountain.  Here you can Tour The Ice Cave , visit the 5 Fingers Lookout, and have lunch at your own pace at the Dachstein Lodge Alpine hut.  In the afternoon, make sure to see anything you missed in the village including the Bone Chapel and then grab your bags to take an evening train to Salzburg, ( Stay in Salzburg ).

•Days 7-10: Salzburg ( Stay In Salzburg ): See our one week in Austria info above with the same 4 full days in Salzburg minus the day trip to Hallstatt since you already visited there.  If your extra day, you can visit a different   Day Trip From Salzburg . in the place of Hallstatt so you end up fitting in two of the three between Berchtesgaden  ( 45-minute bus ride ),  Werfen  ( 45-minute train ride ), or  Munich  ( 90-minute train ride ), ( Stay in Salzburg ).

Branching Out With 10 Days In Austria:

One of the greatest things about visiting the centrally located Austria is how easy it is to combo your stay with stops in some of Europes other great nearby cities.  Cities like Prague, Munich, and Budapest are all within a couple of hours of either Vienna or Salzburg and make for a great 3-day addition to our suggested itinerary for one week in Austria.

You could even get creative with it by flying into Prague, working through Vienna and Salzburg, then fly home out of Munich for an amazing 2 weeks with little to no wasted time backtracking.  Below are the three best add-ons for our suggested itinerary for one week in Austria in surrounding countries without needing a flight or night train.

•Days 1-3: Prague ( Stay In Prague ): Prague is the best Medieval city to visit in Europe and only a 4-hour train ride from Vienna making it easy to add to the front of your one week in Austria.  You’ll be able to fill your time walking the historic Old Town, to Prague Castle towering above the Little Quarter, stroll Charles Bridge, and have a couple of Medieval tavern dinners.  Make sure to check out our Suggested Itineraries For Prague . ( Stay in Prague ).

•Days 8-10: Munich ( Stay In Munich ): Munich is a very easy extra city to add to the end of your one week in Austria as it’s only 90 minutes from either Salzburg.  Munich is a great city to visit with a lot to do over 2-3 days.  You’ll be able to explore the beautiful city center, join in at the fun at Germany’s best beer halls, and relax in a beer garden.  We would also highly suggest using the middle day to take a side trip to Europe’s best fairytale castle Neuschwanstein Castle ( book 3-7 days ahead ) in Fussen.  Make sure to check out our Suggested Itineraries For Munich .  ( Stay in Munich ).

•Days 1-3: Budapest ( Stay In Budapest ): Just like Prague, Budapest is a nice city to add to the in front of your one week in Austria as it is only 4 hours away by train.  Walking the sights around old town Pest along with the Jewish Quarter, City Park, and Buda Castle Hill lets you see the best of another great capital further down the Danube River from Vienna.  Make sure to check out our Suggested Itineraries For Budapest .  ( Stay in Budapest ).

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Austria in 10 days.

Imperial Europe

Itinerary focus:.

• 1 Welcome Reception (WR)
• 9 Breakfast (B)
• 1 Be My Guest (BMG)
• 1 Dinner (D)
• 1 Farewell Dinner (FD)
• Budapest: Join the Schieszl family for a hearty Hungarian Be My Guest dinner and the story of their winery.
• Munich: During your orientation of the city with your Travel Director, see Feldherrnhalle in the Odeonsplatz, the Palace of the Dukes of Wittelsbach, the English Garden, the Hofbräuhaus, St. Peter's Church and the famous Marienplatz.
• Regensburg: Visit Regensburg and explore this enchanting UNESCO-listed town at your leisure.
• Prague: Led by your Local Specialist, explore the delightful Old Town Square and see the detailed Astronomical Clock that attracts onlookers each hour.
• Bratislava: Explore Bratislava's city centre. Take a walk through the charming squares and see the iconic Michael Tower.
• Budapest: Spend the day basking in the iconic views of Budapest.
• Győr: Absorb the medieval atmosphere of Györ.
• Vienna: Walk through the first district, Inner Stadt, as your Local Specialist reveals the historic core of the city. Tour the Ring Road to see the Hofburg Imperial Residence, Opera House, Parliament Building and Karlskirche.
• Melk: Take in the beautiful landscapes of Wachau Valley.
• Salzburg: Join your Local Specialist to visit the formal gardens of Mirabell Palace and Residence Square - both locations used in 'The Sound of Music.' See the imposing fortress, the immense cathedral and Mozart's birthplace on the lively Getreidegasse.
• Bern: Make a stop for a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience at an inclusive café.
• : Explore Prague, Budapest, Vienna and Salzburg with a Local Specialist
• : Discover Munich, Regensburg, Bratislava and Győr
• : View the Marienplatz in Munich, St. Vitus' Cathedral and the Old Town Square of Prague and the Imperial Boulevards of Vienna
• : See Melk Abbey
• : An expert Travel Director and professional Driver
• : Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted
• : All porterage and restaurant gratuities
• : All hotel tips, charges and local taxes
• : Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals
• : Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras
• : Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing
• : Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)
• : Optional Experiences and free time

Best of Austria

Flights & transport:.

• 8 nights accommodation
• Daily buffet breakfast
• Half day private city tour of Vienna visiting State Opera House, the Museum of Fine Arts, the Natural History; the former Habsburg winter residence (Hofburg), the Parliament, the City Hall and the National Theatre
• Explore Mirabelle Gardens, one of the Sound of Music sites
• Walking tour of Salzburg Old City (Altstadt): old market, the town hall, and the tall plain burghers’ houses like Mozart’s Birthplace
• Funicular ride up to the Fortress Hohensalzburg, where on a clear day, you can see the nearby Alps in all their glory
• Half day private city tour of Innsbruck with English speaking guide
• First class train tickets Vienna-Salzburg-Innsbruck
• Private arrival and departure transfers

Get Social: Europe Express 2024-25

• Berlin highlights drive
• Walking tour of Prague with Trip Leader
• Vienna highlights drive
• Orientation walk in Venice with Trip Leader
• Orientation walk in Paris with Trip Leader

European Magic (London, Summer)

Prague to Budapest Ride

• Cycle along rivers, through forests and national parks
• Discover four history-steeped countries
• Enjoy Central European culture, cuisines, wines and beers

Winter Wonderland (Small Groups)

• Mainz: Witness half-timbered houses and Baroque buildings surrounding the magnificent Dom Cathedral.
• Rothenburg ob der Tauber: Fortified by ancient walls, picturesque and unspoiled, Rothenburg ob der Tauber is a fairytale come true at any time of year. It dazzles in December, with its 500-year-old Reiterlesmarkt lending a festive air to the cobbled streets and medieval buildings.
• Salzburg: With a Local Expert, see Mozart's family home and the 500-year-old Christmas Market in front of the cathedral. You'll also view the Hohensalzburg fortress and see Residenz Fountain when you spend some time in the Old Town.
• Innsbruck: Nestled amidst majestic mountains, Innsbruck is a beautiful city offering a unique combination of nature, history, and culture. Stroll the streets of the picturesque Old Town, with your Travel Director, learn about its history and admire the Baroque and Gothic architecture.
• Innsbruck: Visit the magical Swarovski Crystal Worlds. This attraction features installations by international artists, designers and architects who have interpreted the crystals in their own ways.
• Innsbruck: Meet your coachman and enjoy a delightful horse-drawn carriage ride, surrounded by the mountains and valleys of Tyrol.
• Vaduz: Admire the Royal family's residence, Vaduz Castle, which overlooks the capital and is surrounded by year-round snow peaked mountains.
• Lucerne: During your orientation with your Travel Director, see the emotive Lion Monument, Jesuit Church and Chapel Bridge.
• Mount Pilatus: Enjoy a spectacular journey to the summit of Mount Pilatus to witness a panorama of snow-capped peaks as you take in the pristine mountain air.
• Rhine Falls: Visit these spectacular falls.
• Heidelberg: Explore one of Germany's most enchanting cities during your orientation with your Travel Director.
• Salzburg: Visit the house where Mozart was born in 1756. Enjoy a pianoforte demonstration and examine letters, memorabilia, and musical instruments of the great composer, plus a fascinating collection of portraits.
• Munich: Discover Munich through Bavaria’s lost and forgotten Advent traditions, playing a significant part of regional cultural revitalisation, and stop for tastings along the way.
• Mainz: Enjoy getting to know your fellow travelers as you savor a delicious Welcome Dinner in a local restaurant.
• Salzburg: At the Christmas Market, meet a local stallholder and taste the delicious gingerbread with a fragrant cup of Glühwein.
• Innsbruck: Savor a special Highlight Dinner at Swarovski Crystal World.
• Heidelberg: Toast the culmination of your travels at a rousing Celebration Dinner with wine.

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European Christmas Markets featuring Prague, Vienna & Budapest - 2024

• Learn the secrets of Viennese confectionary during a candy making demonstration.
• Dine at the famous Marchfelderhof, an iconic restaurant with a rich Viennese tradition.
• Tour the majestic Prague Castle.
• Visit 5 different countries filled with the holiday spirit.
• Visit the magnificent Schönbrunn Palace, a summer retreat of the Habsburg dynasty.
• Discover Budapest’s iconic sights through the eyes of an expert.
• Experience the world’s oldest Christmas market in lovely Dresden, Germany.

Imperial Cities of Europe - 6 Countries

• Cruise along the Danube River and experience the beautiful sights of Budapest
• Admire the beautiful gardens and Rococo interior of the majestic Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna
• Feel the medieval spirit of the Golden city – Prague
• Enjoy the German way, tasting sausages and beer in a centuries-old restaurant
• Ring the wishing bell on the island in the middle of the picturesque Lake Bled

Germany, Czech Republic, Austria & Hungary in 11 days - Capitals of Central Europe - CHARM BY ...

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Explore Central Europe

• Explore sections of the berlin wall
• Explore prague's old town
• Taste the world-famous sacher torte in vienna
• Visit the bustling market with a foodie-guide

Passau to Vienna Cycling

• Gentle cycling on dedicated cycle paths alongside the Danube, one of the most beautiful rivers in Europe
• Hilltop castles, Baroque palaces, historic abbeys, ornate monasteries
• Sunflower fields, vineyards, peach and apricot orchards
• Masses of culture: art galleries, Roman remains, 23,000-year-old sculptures
• Eclectic mix of hotels from 15th century convents to riverfront mansions

Prague Vienna and Budapest

• Vienna: Enjoy a visit to the Kunsthistorisches Museum, the largest art museum in Austria, to view the Royal Collection before the general public has access.
• Esztergom: Spend the day enjoying the scenic landscapes of Esztergom.
• Vienna: Take in the wonderful views along the Danube Bend.
• Vienna: Stop for a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience at an inclusive café.
• : VIP Admission to the Kunsthistorisches Museum in Vienna
• : Explore Prague, Vienna and Budapest with a Local Specialist
• : Visit St. Vitus Cathedral and the Old Town Square of Prague, and the old Hungarian capital of Esztergom
• : View the Castle and Old Town of Bratislava, the Hofburg Palace and Imperial Boulevards of Vienna and the Parliament Building in Budapest
• : See St. Stephen's Cathedral and the Opera House in Vienna

Winter Wonderland (Classic)

Road to Rome (Paris, Summer, Small Groups)

• Stanserhorn: Journey to the top of Mount Stanserhorn on a panoramic, open-top cable car powered by solar energy, and enjoy spectacular views from the summit.
• Venice: With your Travel Director cruise to St. Mark's Square and see the Doge's Palace, Bridge of Sighs and St. Mark's Basilica.
• Pisa: Your Local Expert will show you the baptistery bristling with marble spines, the colonnaded bell tower lurching behind the 11th century cathedral and of course, the famous Leaning Tower in the Square of Miracles.
• Florence: Join a Local Expert to view the multi-colored marble cathedral, bell tower and baptistery, adorned by Ghiberti's Gates of Paradise. Visit the political heart of the city, Signoria Square. See the area around Santa Croce Basilica, famous for the quality of its luxury goods.
• Assisi: With a Local Expert, find out why the Basilica of St. Francis is considered one of the crowning achievements of Europe.
• Rome: During your orientation with your Travel Director see the medieval buildings, including Renaissance palaces and Baroque churches, scattered throughout the city.
• Vatican: Gain Fast Track access into the Vatican Museums and admire the famous Bramante Staircase. Witness the genius of Michelangelo in the Sistine Chapel and view the splendid dome of St. Peter's Basilica.
• Stanserhorn: Walk along beautiful scenic pathways, keeping an eye out for marmots and other native animals, with the chance to hear a conservation talk by a Swiss ranger, to learn about local wildlife and flora.
• Venice: Witness the ancient skill of glassblowing, now practised by precious few masters. Watch artisans create delicate works of art using rare traditional practices. The workshop's master craftsmen teach visitors about the traditional craft of glassblowing and its history which dates back to the 15th century. Every visit helps to support the workshop and the survival of this traditional craft.  The workshop advances UN Sustainable Development Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities.
• Paris: Join your Travel Director and fellow guests at a local restaurant in the heart of Paris for a delightful Welcome Dinner, served with wine.
• Paris: Join an avid local foodie on a walk through the streets of Paris. Visit a variety of patisseries, boulangeries and chocolatiers and sample local treats and delicacies along the way.
• Lucerne: Choose from a selection of restaurants on your Dine-Around Evening and hand-pick your preferred ambience, cuisine and drinks for an intimate culinary experience.
• Veneto: Visit a local winery and delight in a tasting of their magnificent prosecco. Meet the vignerons and learn how to make the perfect Bellini.
• Tuscany: Visit Il Poggio to learn about organic olive and grape farming. Then enjoy a tasting as you sit down to a fabulous lunch of Tuscan specialties, complimented by stunning views.
• Rome: Savor a four-course Celebration Dinner complete with wine, to the rich tremolo of some of Italy's best loved opera.

The Bohemian (Summer, Vienna, Classic)

• Vienna: A private, guided exploration of Schönbrunn Palace will have all your senses tingling. Stand beneath frescoed ceilings, crystal chandeliers and gilded Rococo frames where Mozart performed as a child prodigy.
• Vienna: Travel along the Ring Road to see the Hofburg Imperial Residence, Opera House, Parliament Building and Karlskirche.
• Cesky Krumlov: Your Travel Director will lead you on an orientation of the city as you explore the medieval streets of this fairy-tale town.
• Prague: Stroll through the Jewish Quarter with your Local Expert to hear how the Jewish community has shaped the history of Prague.
• Prague: Visit the imposing St. Vitus Cathedral and explore the atmospheric courtyards of the historic Prague Castle with your Local Expert.
• Auschwitz: Experience a powerful and moving visit, with a Local Expert. See the Auschwitz memorial and museum, which bears witness to the terrible atrocities of the Holocaust.
• Kraków: The medieval heart of Krakow is rich in legend, a kind of Polish Camelot. Join your Local Expert for an in-depth exploration of this historic Holy Grail.Cross the former Jewish Quarter of Kazimierz to Podgórze and see the Ghetto Square.
• Kraków: Visit the cathedral atop Wawel Hill, see the castle and look for the iconic dragon, accompanied by your Local Expert.
• Kraków: Visit the 14th-century St. Mary's Basilica, the most important church in the city.
• Budapest: Stroll through the alleys of the Old Town of Buda with a Local Expert.
• Budapest: Enjoy a tour of the Liszt Music Academy with a student, followed by an enchanting recital. Producing incredible musical talent, the university was founded by piano virtuoso and composer Franz Liszt in 1875.
• Vienna: Listen to the musical masterpiece of Mozart and learn the Viennese Waltz, in an inclusive workshop designed to support the visually impaired community. Unique to Insight Guests, ‘Dancing without Barriers’ takes place in the dark, in a specially designed sensory studio, and will be a unique experience for all your senses. This specifically designed workshop focuses on inclusion and education around the topic of visual impairment. Through their foundation the organization supports children from disadvantaged family and children with a visual impairment. This experience advances UN Sustainable Development Goal 10: Reduced Inequalities. Alternatively, visit a traditional Viennese café to enjoy local specialties of coffee and sachertorte.
• Vienna: Join your Travel Director and fellow travelers for a drink, followed by a pleasant Welcome Dinner served with wine at a local restaurant.
• Kraków: For your Dine-Around Evening, choose you style of dining from a selection of hand-picked local restaurants, unique in Polish flavor.
• Optional - Choose between two carefully selected activities
• Optional - Prague: Stroll through the Jewish Quarter with your Local Expert to hear how the Jewish community has shaped the history of Prague.
• Optional - Prague: Visit the imposing St. Vitus Cathedral and explore the atmospheric courtyards of the historic Prague Castle with your Local Expert.

European Rhapsody (London, 1, Summer, Small Groups)

• London: Relax on the smooth, high-speed Eurostar train as you journey from London to Europe via the revolutionary Channel Tunnel.
• Amsterdam: Cruise along the old waterways, discovering the architectural gems of the old city, including mansions dating from the Golden Age of the 17th Century.
• Wurzburg: Stand on the statue-lined Alte Mainbrucke and see the Marienburg fortress.
• Wurzburg: Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Würzburg Residence.
• Rothenburg ob der Tauber: Picturesque Rothenburg ob der Tauber is the best-preserved medieval town in Germany and a truly enchanting destination. Step back in time and explore the city walls, towers, and gates around the old town as well as the old town itself.
• Prague: Stroll through the Jewish Quarter with your Local Expert to hear how the Jewish community has shaped the history of Prague, and taste Trdelník, a traditional Czech pastry.
• Vienna: Walk through the first district, Inner Stadt, as your Local Expert reveals why this is the historic core of the city. You will also tour the Ring Road to see the Hofburg Imperial Residence, Opera House, Parliament Building and Karlskirche.
• Vienna: Be pampered by locals with traditional coffee and cake. An experience like no other, this cozy café provides companionship, and promotes well-being and support for the community, in addition to crafting delicious treats.
• Amsterdam: Toast to the travels ahead during your Welcome Dinner of modern European cuisine at a local restaurant.
• Budapest: Enjoy a scenic dinner cruise and take in the city's night time beauty as you float along the Danube.
• Venice: Sip cocktails alongside the canals at Cafe Florian, while being serenaded by an ensemble of talented musicians and soak up the calming atmosphere long after the day-trippers have returned to their mainland hotels.
• Venice: Enjoy a special Venetian Celebration Dinner with wine at La Principessa.
• Optional - Prague: Stroll through the Jewish Quarter with your Local Expert to hear how the Jewish community has shaped the history of Prague, and taste Trdelník, a traditional Czech pastry.

European Flair (Amsterdam, Summer, Small Groups)

• Salzburg: Join your Local Expert to visit the formal gardens of Mirabell Palace and Residence Square - both locations used in 'The Sound of Music.' You will also see the imposing fortress, the immense cathedral and Mozart's birthplace on the lively Getreidegasse.
• Rome: Experience Rome through the eyes of a local, as a passionate Roman guides you through vibrant backstreets, showing you how modern life takes place around ancient treasures.
• Amsterdam: Join your Travel Director and fellow guests at a local restaurant in the heart of Amsterdam for a delightful Welcome Dinner, served with wine.
• Salzburg: Relish in the authentic experience of farm-to-table dining.
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The Bohemian (Summer, Budapest, Small Groups)

European Rhapsody (London, 1, Summer, Classic)

European Flair (Amsterdam, Summer, Classic)

Related trips & tours, austria reviews & ratings, why travelstride, additional details, what you should know before going on a austria tour, common countries also visited on austria tours.

When it comes to traveling in Europe , an exciting part of planning a trip is the relative proximity of countries to one another. There is an extensive amount of diversity in lifestyle, culture and attractions within Europe and combining countries in a single trip gives you the opportunity to immerse yourself in this diversity. Travelers can easily combine 2 or more countries in a single trip on a European tour , even one as short as 7-10 days.

With regards to Austria, the most common country that tour operators pair with Austria is Switzerland . The reasoning behind this is the draw of the expansive landscapes, intriguing cultures and the proximity of these two countries.

Additionally, Austria tours offer itineraries that include visits to surrounding countries such as Czech Republic, Hungry, Italy or Germany amongst others. Many tours that include some of these countries often visit the iconic cities of Budapest, Prague, Venice or Berlin.

Every tour is unique and there is certainly a tour that can fulfill your interests and desired experiences within Austria and one or more of the surrounding countries. Take the time to research one that fits your travel goals because a trip to this area of the world will enrich your life.

What is the weather like in Austria?

Austria is a country with varied geography including delightful mountain ranges and valleys. As such, it is a country that has a variable climate that changes throughout the seasons and location.

The summers in Austria can be quite pleasant and sunny, with temperatures ranging up to 90 degrees fahrenheit. Expect the winters to include more precipitation including rain and snow (depending on the location).

Fall and spring in Austria is in between winter and summer and can be more brisk and at times have some precipitation.

In general, the best time to visit Austria for a walking or biking tour or to visit a major city is April through October because it is more of a temperate, warm and at times dry time of year. For those looking to enjoy a winter vacation in the mountains, the months of December-March are advisable.

Who will enjoy visiting Austria?

Austria is a great destination for many different types of travelers. It is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, who enjoy skiing, hiking, biking, fishing, relaxing and enjoying the natural environment.

It is a lovely destination for foodies as it has a delectable food and wine scene, both within the major cities and in the countryside. For those that enjoy diving into history and culture, Austria boasts significant landmarks, museums and performances in Vienna and Salzburg. There’s something for everyone in Austria!

Top Austria travel tips

Below are a few travel tips for ensuring that your trip to Austria is unforgettable.

Most Austrians speak a fair amount of English but as always, it’s a great idea to learn some of the local language (German) to connect with the locals more.

In general, the prices include taxes and fees. That being said, at restaurants, there is an expected 5-10% tip on top of your bill.

The water in Austria is extremely clean and delicious, so you can enjoy the local water. That being said, the wine and beer is also enjoyable too.

Sundays are generally a day of rest, so many businesses will be closed on that day. It’s a great opportunity to enjoy some recreation and relaxation on your trip as well.

Thoroughly research the season and location that your visiting and pack accordingly. For example, if you are going to visit the Alps in the winter, bring warm jackets and layers and/or ski gear. It’s best to pack things that are practical and necessary.

Always Find the Best

Additional resources, coronavirus update.

Austria is expected to extend current restrictions on travelers coming from the United States. EU, EEA or Swiss citizens are allowed to enter, though certain Covid-19 related restrictions are in place.

Get more information about Coronavirus and travel  

Regular updates on countries opening for tourism

Visa information for traveling to Austria

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Austria Itinerary: 11 Days by Train

Updated March 19th, 2019

This post contains affiliate links. That means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase using the links from my site. I appreciate your support! 

Are you looking for an Austria itinerary? Do you hope to include the must-see cities of Salzburg and Vienna as well as some smaller towns in-between? This Austria itinerary by train includes the country’s most well-known cities and some lesser known gems. It’s perfect for anyone who is hoping to start and end their time in Vienna. 

Even though we would have loved more time at each location and of course wanted to visit more places, my mom and I were both very happy with this Austria itinerary for the 11 days, including flying days, that we had in in the country.

General Train Information

For all our transportation between cities we used trains, the express railjets and the regional trains. To buy train tickets ahead of time use oebb Austrian rail site . All the different types of transportation, including buses, are used on this site and can be bought together. It conveniently shows all of your options.  

You can buy your tickets from machines at the train station, but it is typically cheaper to buy ahead of time and get the ‘sparschiene’ discounted rate.

There is a small extra charge for reserved seating on railjet trains. We never did this and there was only one time we wished we did, from Innsbruck to Vienna. If you do not have a reserved seat you need to make sure you do not sit in a reserved seat. Above the seats and just below the overhead luggage racks you can see an electronic strip with the seat number. The cities written next to it tell when the seat is reserved. If nothing is there is means the seat is not reserved.

Rail platforms are easy to find within every station. Almost everyone we met spoke English well and was more than willing to help with directions whether at a train station or on a city bus.

Remember that Bahnhof means train station and Hauptbahnhof means the main train station in the city. Also note that Wien is Vienna.

There is one or two larger luggage racks in each car as well as the overhead luggage space. As long as you can drag it onboard, you can bring it.

On both regional and railjet trains there are toilets. Railjet trains have a dining car with a fairly good selection of decent meals and snacks.

Within the train electronic screens show the upcoming stops. On the railjets they give precise information with the times in English and German.

Day 1: Flying Day into Vienna & Train to Gmunden

Vienna International Airport is probably the easiest to fly into and out of . Right at the airport is the train station, which provides easy connections to anywhere else you want to go in Austria. You could spend time in Vienna at the end or beginning of your trip. We decided to stay in Vienna at the end because it worked better for obtaining ballet tickets.

Day 2 : Exploring Gmunden & Train to Salzburg

The first stop on our Austrian itinerary was Gmunden, a small town between Vienna and Salzburg within the Salzkammergut region on Lake Traunsee.

From Vienna International Airport to Gmunden Bahnhof it is about a 3 hour trip on two trains. We took a railjet train to Attnang-Puchheim Bahnhof and then a regional train to Gmunden Bahnhof, but there are other options available as well. There are buses within the city, but there would be nothing available at our evening arrival so we pre-booked a taxi with our hotel. They booked us with Taxi Prehm, which was very reliable. If you plan on taking a taxi back to the train station make sure to pre-book. We left it until the last minute and there wasn’t enough time to get a taxi. The kind owners of the hotel gave us a ride instead….but I wouldn’t count on that!

The lake and the main part of town is walking distance (~10 – 20min) from Hotel Magerl.

Hotel Magerl : Ackerweg 18, 4810 Gmunden, Austria

I loved the feel of this hotel with old world charm alongside modern convenience.

Activities 

Kayaking and Walking around Lake Truansee

Take a Steamboat on Lake Traunsee

Exploring the Town

Grunberg Cable Car   to Grunberg Mountain for hiking, biking, paragliding and more

Gmunder Keramik for a tour of the ceramic factory

Within the main part of town along the lake there are several options. We were not disappointed with our Italian meal at Vienna Cafe DP Gastro GmbH :  Sparkassegasse 1, 4810 Gmunden, Austria.

Days 3 – 6: Salzburg

From Gmunden we took a regional train back to Attnang-Puchheim Bahnhof and switched to a railjet to Salzburg. We arrived in Salzburg at the main train station ( Hauptbahnhof). The city buses stop directly outside of the train station. From our pre-booked tickets I knew which platform to stand and wait.

We bought the Salzburg card which included free transportation. Other than the initial bus ride, the rest of our time in Salzburg that we needed transportation was within the two day pass time frame. With the pass you do not need to do anything, simply board the bus.

Alstadt Hotel Hofwirt : Schallmooser Hauptstraße 1, Schallmoos, 5020 Salzburg, Austria

Convenient location to the New Town and about a 15 minute walk to the old town. A modern and clean hotel with friendly staff and large selection of breakfast items.

I recommend buying the Salzburg City Card that gives you free transportation and entrance to all of the activities below except the Sound of Music Tours.

Sound of Music Tour – I suggest Fräulein Maria’s Bicycle Tour s if you want an active tour. If not there The Original Sound of Music Tour is another great option for a bus tour.

Museums : Christmas Museum , Mozart’s Birthplace , Mozart’s Residence , Panorama Museum , Salzburg Open Air Museum

Hohensalzburg Fortress – one of the largest medieval castles in Europe

Salzburg City Cruises

Guided Tours of the Festival Halls

Dom Quartier Salzburg

Untersberg Mountain – enjoy a beautiful hike in the snow after taking the cable car

Hellbrunn Palace, Trick Fountains, Folk Art Museum & Salzburg Zoo  

Gasthof Alter Fuchs :  Linzer G. 47-49, 5020 Salzburg, Austria.  Located on the other side of the river from the old town, this cozy place with classic dishes on the menu had a traditional Austrian feel.

Pretzel Stand in Kapitelplatz :  The square with a man standing on top of a big gold sphere.  During our Sound of Music tour our guide recommended this pretzel place to everyone and announced that it had the best pretzels in Salzburg. Sometimes I am skeptical of tour guide recommendations mid-tour, thinking that they are only trying to promote a specific business. Our guide was right about this one! With almost ten different varieties of pretzels as big as your head, you are sure to find a flavor you will enjoy.

Die Wiesse:  Rupertgasse 10, 5020 Salzburg, Austria.  We didn’t know if our hunger could hold on long enough to reach this locally recommended biergarten and were about to give up when we heard music. By following the sound of a tuba we made it to this biergarten that was full of Austrians in their traditional dirndls and lederhosen. As it was a national holiday we were treated to a festive and authentic display of music, dancing, and eating. Even if you don’t luck out with the festive atmosphere we experienced, the outdoor garden and food are still worth a visit. Another great recommendation from our tour guide that is a little off the beaten path.

Hochalm am Untersberg:  Located on top of Untersberg Mountain, this traditional looking restaurant offers classic fare at reasonable prices and close up views of the surrounding alps.

Café Latini :  Judengasse 17, 5020 Salzburg, Austria. This café is good if you want something a little quicker within the old town close to all the sights. I particularly recommend the ice cream and a nice outdoor table for prime people watching.

Days 7 – 8: Seefeld & Mittenwald

To get to Seefeld from Salzburg we took a railjet train to Innsbruck , which I would recommend spending some time in if your schedule allows. There is so much to see and do in Innsbruck . Then we took a regional train to Seefeld. Within Seefeld we walked everywhere. Either google maps seemed a little strange or I wasn’t following the map correctly, because it was a tad difficult finding our hotel initially, but easy every time after that. 

To get to Mittenwald from Seefeld I recommend taking a train. It is about a 22 minute journey. Tickets can be bought ahead of time or at the machine in Seefeld. The cost is so low, about 5 euros, that unless you are positive of your departure times you might as well buy them at the station. Like any train journey, make sure to plan ahead with times. On the way back from Mittenwald there were no machines selling our particular journey back to Seefeld so we bought tickets on the train.

Landhaus Klausnerhof Hotel : Alte Leutascher Straße 57, 6100 Seefeld in Tirol, Austria

A well kept alpine hotel with a friendly and helpful manager. The hotel is close to restaurants in town, the train station and Lake Wildsee.

Seefeld: Visiting Lake Wildsee

Seefeld: Hiking – Many trails in the area.

Mittenwald:  Leutaschklamm Gorge Hike  

Mittenwald: Take a stroll around the town to see the beautifully painted buildings and maybe visit the violin museum.

Restaurant Seefelder Stube:  Innsbrucker Str. 23, 6100 Seefeld in Tirol, Austria.  Our pizza and pasta dishes here arrived exactly as we ordered them and full of rich flavors.

Mittenwald : Several restaurants, cafés and bakeries along the main street around the square.

Day 8 – 11: Vienna

From Seefeld we took a regional train back to Innsbruck and then the high-speed railjet to Vienna , the last stop on our Austria Itinerary. The whole journey takes about 5.5 hours. It is the longest train journey of this itinerary and the one I would recommend booking reserved seats for. Perhaps it was our particular time we traveled, but the train was incredibly booked and it was initially hard to find single seats open, much less two seats together.

We had tickets for a tram that stopped a couple of minutes away from our hotel. Within Vienna we mostly walked. To take the metro you need to buy a ticket from a machine before boarding. Make sure you validate the ticket, by sticking it inside a little box, before going down the escalators to the metro train.

Suite Hotel 900 m zur Oper :   Wiedner Hauptstraße 44, 04. Wieden, 1040 Vienna, Austria

The hotel is an pleasant 10 minutes or so walk from the Opera house and other central attractions. The tram stops only a couple of minutes from the front door.

Sisi Museum : Learn about the intriguing life of Empress Sisi.

Albertina Museum : An art museum known for its print rooms.

Vienna Museum : Overview of the history of Vienna with some special exhibitions.

Schönbrunn Palace : More on the life of the Imperial family and fun gardens to explore.

Free Walking Tou r : Good to do your first morning in the city as it gives an overview of Vienna.

Austrian National Library : Where you can visit the impressive great hall.

Spanish Riding School : Along with seeing a show you can buy tickets for the morning practice or for a guided tour.

Vienna Opera House : For a night on the town this is a classic and elegant choice. Guided tours are also available some days.

St. Stephen’s Cathedral : Visit the gorgeous interior or pay to walk up the tower for a view of the city.

Bierhof:  Haarhof 3, 1010 Wien, Austria

We weren’t quite ready for lunch when we stumbled upon this restaurant, but it was too good to pass up. It was almost hidden within a little courtyard. I had a chicken salad here. It sounds really basic, but the spices in it made me scarf down my salad at the rate of which I would usually eat a piece of chocolate cake.

Restaurant in the center with green boards:  Intersection of Ballgasse & Blumenstockgasse  

Another slightly more secluded area with several cafés. Although we typically ate outdoors only for lunch when it was warm enough, we wanted to experience the area outdoors for dinner as well. We were given blankets as we enjoyed our top notch salmon and schnitzel dishes.

Ristorante San Carlo:  Mahlerstraße 3, 1010 Wien, Austria

This ristorante near the Opera House has a slightly more elegant feel so when we came in drenched from the rain we wondered if they would even let us get a table. When the waiter led us to a table and then turned around we were left standing awkwardly in the middle of the room starting to get concerned that we wouldn’t get a table for real. It was our last meal in Austria so we were starting to get the hang of the Austrian restaurant world so we kept calm and waited until we finally got a drafty table near the door to the rainy weather outside. Soon enough we were served our food and my luscious pasta dish made me quickly forget about the temperature.

Salud Restaurant and Bar:  Johannesgasse 23, 1010 Wien, Austria

Don’t go here if you want attentive service, but do go here for some good tex-mex food.

Viennese café culture:  Most importantly don’t leave Vienna without having cake. So many cafés to choose from!

I hope this suggested Austria Itinerary by train will help you prepare your travels throughout the country! 

Not quite what you are looking for? Don’t worry, I can help! Through my Personal Travel Planning service I can plan the perfect Austria itinerary to meet your travel needs…or any other place you dream of visiting! 

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11 comments.

What a great itinerary. I live in Austria – but whenever someone asks me what can I visit , I suddenly am at a lost. So you provided me with a solution, that I will just send this link to someone who asks. Nice tips on the restaurants as well , that I will be using it for myself 🙂

Thank you, that is so nice to hear from someone who lives in Austria! I would love it if you share this Austria itinerary with anyone planning to visit and I hope it is helpful to you too! Where do you live in Austria?

I live in Villach – great location at the border of both Slovenia and Italy – do holler If you are ever in the region and we can have a cuppa coffee

Will do, I have never heard of Villach, but the google images look beautiful!

Follow My Anchor

Very informative post with useful details. I love touring journeys by trains and see different places on the same trip. I have been to a few places in Austria like Salzburg, Innsbruck and Kitzbuhel but I definitely need to go back and visit Vienna. I’ll make sure I’ll visit Gmunden too as it looks a very cute town on your picture!

I always enjoy exploring different places on the same trip too and getting to know a country by visiting both the larger and smaller cities.

Wow! You’ve really covered everything here. I love Austria and have been there many times. Your in-depth comments are really valuable for everyone.

Thank you! I would love to go back and visit again.

This is a great itinerary and fabulous tips! I’ve wanted to go back to Austria to explore it more but didnt know how to get around and definitely didn’t want to drive. Great information.

I don’t like to drive abroad, so I was happy that Austria is really easy to get around on your own without a car!

This looks like a great itinerary. I’ve only visited Salzburg and Vienna as part of a larger trip to Europe but would love to go back to Austria and see some smaller towns.

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A Perfect Austria Itinerary | Vienna, Hallstatt, Salzburg, Mayrhofen

By: Author Charles

Posted on August 21, 2023

From cities and villages to lakes and mountains, Austria has so much variety to offers its visitors.

This 7 day Austria itinerary will go over how to put together the perfect one week trip that will take you to 4 different places in the country.

The trip will start off in Vienna for 2 days, before heading westwards towards Hallstatt, where you can spend the next 2 days, followed by a day trip to Salzburg.

From there, the itinerary takes you further west to the valley town of Mayrhofen, where you can end with 2 days of exploring the Zillertal Alps.

*  Affiliate Disclosure : This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you make a purchase through the links provided, at no additional cost to you. Thanks for supporting the work I put into TripTins!

Austria Itinerary Overview

Before jumping into the itinerary, below are some helpful tips to better prepare you for your trip to Austria:

» The itinerary goes over 7 full days in Austria , meaning arriving early on day 1 (or the previous day), and leaving late on day 7 or sometime on day 8.

» The trip also begins in Vienna and ends in Mayrhofen (near Innsbruck). Depending on your travel plans, you can either 1) drive 5 hours back to Vienna on day 8, 2) fly from Innsbruck to Vienna sometime later on day 7 or day 8, or 3) fly out from Innsbruck internationally, which has flights to some other cities in Europe.

» You will want to rent a car for most of your trip . While public transport is an option, it will be much more difficult to visit everything within a week’s time.

You can pick up a car from Vienna city center on the morning of day 2 before heading towards Hallstatt. You will then drop off in either Vienna or Innsbruck depending on your travel plans at the end of your trip.

Car Rentals : If you are renting a car in Austria, be sure to check out Rentalcars.com to browse through options. Once on the site, you will be able to filter by price, car type, rental company, and more, to find the perfect car for your trip to Austria.

» This itinerary can really be done at any time of year , depending on your preferences. While Vienna and Salzburg are just cities, you can find some varying activities around Hallstatt and Mayrhofen depending on time of year.

For example, a summer trip will be perfect for those hikers out there, while a winter trip will be great for those wanting to ski.

» Since I did opt for a late summer trip, I will focus most of those mountain activities on the hiking portion of the country.

Where to Stay in Austria

The breakout of the itinerary will be as follows:

• Vienna | 2 Nights
• Hallstatt | 2 Nights
• Mayrhofen | 2 Nights

⇔ Depending on your flights you may need to add an additional night in Vienna or Mayrhofen at the beginning or end of your trip.

⇔ If you have extra time, feel free to check out the Grossglockner High Alpine Road Guide up on the site and a trip to the Pasterze Glacier

⇔ Below are my hotel recommendations for each of the three cities mentioned. Be sure to book ahead of time because they can sell out during peak season!

When visiting Vienna I would recommend staying close to the Innere Stadt district, where many of the main attractions are located.

From there you will also be super connected by all sorts of public transport to get you to different parts of the city when the time comes to travel a little.

Below are several options to choose from based on budget that are all situated in prime location:

• Budget: Pension Dr. Geissler | Hotel Bajazzo | Motel One Wien Staatsoper
• Mid Tier: Hotel Post Wien | Austria Trend Hotel Astoria Wien | Boutique Hotel Das Tigra
• Luxury: The Ring – Vienna’s Casual Luxury Hotel | Hotel Topazz & Lamee | Vienna Marriott Hotel

When it comes to Hallstatt you can decide to stay within the town itself or choose a nearby town instead.

While staying in Hallstatt is a great option, there is also a chance that either 1) all rooms are sold out or 2) the available rooms are out of your budget.

Since Hallstatt is pretty small, there are not that many options to choose from. So, if you can’t get something you are looking for, then it is time to choose a nearby town instead.

With that said, here are some alternatives to staying within Hallstatt – Bad Ischl, Bad Goisern, and Obertraun.

All of these towns are within a 10-30 minute drive to Hallstatt / you can leverage the trains and busses that pass through them to get to town.

Below are some of my recommendations to choose from in Hallstatt as well as in each one of the alternative towns. Each one is highly rated and would be a great option to choose from for your trip.

• Hallstatt: Heritage Hotel Hallstatt | Seehotel Gruner Baum | Gasthof Pension Gruner Anger
• Obertraun (10 minute drive): Seehotel am Hallstattersee | Hotel Haus Am See | Dormio Hotel Obertraun
• Bad Goisern (20 minutes): Hotel Moserwirt | Sofias Apartment | Wohlfuhlhotel Goiserer Mühle
• Bad Ischl (30 minutes): Hotel Garni Sandwirt | Sonnhof  | Der Hubertushof

Since Mayrhofen is a relatively small valley town, no matter where you stay in it, you will be at most a 20 minute walk to restaurants, bars, cable cars, and the train station.

Below are some great options to choose from depending on your budget:

• Luxury: Hotel Neue Post | Alpin Lodge das Zillergrund  | ElisabethHotel Premium Private Retreat
• Mid Range: Sporthotel Manni | Alpendomizil Neuhaus | Zillertalerhof Alpine Hideaway
• Budget: Birkenhof | Landhotel Rauchenwalderhof | Gasthof Edelweiss

Austria Day by Day

Below is the day by day breakdown of what to expect when visiting each one of these four cities in Austria.

Austria Map

I also wanted to pinpoint each attraction and activity that is mentioned throughout the rest of the itinerary. Each color represents a different day of the travel route through Austria.

If you click the icon in the top left hand corner of the map, you will be able to see the attractions by day.

A Perfect Austria Itinerary

Now let’s get into a more detailed view for what to expect on a day to day basis. At some points I will link some more detailed guides that I have written up about a particular place or activity.

Feel free to check those out along the way or take a look at the Austria itineraries and guides up on the site.

Day 1 – Vienna

After arriving either the previous night or earlier on in the day, it is time to explore the capital city of Austria. Vienna has so much to offer its visitors, and over the next two days you will have the chance to explore much of it.

For more info about Vienna and the attractions listed below, feel free to check out the Vienna Itinerary I have up on the site.

On your first day in the city I recommend heading off to the following attractions in the Innere Stadt district of Vienna:

Vienna State Opera : You can start the day by walking around the Vienna State Opera as you take in the architecture from all different angles.

Once you are all set from the outside, you can opt for a guided tour of the inside of the Opera House. Tickets for the tours cost 13 Euro and run a few times a day.

Take a look at the Vienna Opera House tour schedule to learn more.

St Stephens Cathedral : Up next for the day is St Stephens Cathedral, which is located straight down one of the main streets of downtown.

Not only is the Cathedral a gorgeous building to walk through, but it also gives visitors the chance to take in the views from the top.

Michaelerplatz : The Michaelplatz is the name of the square right in front of the Hofburg Palace. Here is where you can enjoy the best views of the Hofburg as you see the entirety of the grand architecture that makes up the complex.

Hofburg Palace : While the outside of the palace is a great view to take in, you can actually spend some time within the Hofburg Palace itself exploring the ins and outs of several exhibitions there.

Some of the main highlights include the Imperial Apartments, Sisi Museum, and Imperial Silver Collection.

Spanish Riding School : Also located within the Hofburg Palace directly across from the museums and apartments is the famous Spanish Riding School. Here you will find the training ground for the Lipizzaner horses classical dressage.

There are a few different main offerings that the Spanish Riding School has depending on what day you end up going there. Check out their website for events and hours by day.

Day 2 – Vienna

After a day exploring downtown Vienna on day 1, it is time to head a bit further out of the city on day 2 of your Austria itinerary.

You can hop on the metro to the Schonbrunn Palace and Gardens, where you can spend several hours exploring both attractions.

At day’s end, once back in the city center, feel free to just walk around and enjoy downtown Vienna as you roam around its streets.

Schonbrunn Palace : The Palace itself is an absolutely massive structure with all types of different rooms, architecture, and artwork to take in. There are two main ticket offerings for the inside of Schonbrunn – the Imperial Tour and the Grand Tour.

The Imperial Tour allows access to 22 different rooms with the Palace, which include highlights such as Great Gallery, Emperor Franz Josef’s apartment, and the Chinese Cabinets.

The Grand Tour offers access to 40 different rooms, which include highlights such as Feketin Room and Gobelin Salon on top of the others offered in the Imperial Tour. There are audio guides available for both options as well.

Schonbrunn Gardens : While you must pay an entrance fee to go into the Palace, you can actually roam the gardens free of charge. Do note however that not every section of the garden is free to enter.

There are a few places such as the Privy Garden, the Orangery Gardens, the Zoo and the Maze that do require an entrance fee. You can pay for them individually based on preference or you can buy one of the combo tickets offered.

The Gardens are absolutely massive in size, ranging 1KM+ in every direction. There are several different areas to visit as you make the walk around.

One of the highlights for me was definitely heading up the hill to the Gloriette, where for a small fee you can get a spectacular view of the Schonbrunn Gardens and Palace from above.

Day 3 – Drive to Hallstatt / Hallstatt Village

It is now time to grab that rental car and head west towards Hallsatt. The drive should take around 3.5 hours as you make your way across Austria and through the beautiful mountain areas of the country.

Odds are you will find some lakes, viewpoints, & villages along the way to stop at, so feel free to spend some time enjoying the countryside as you drive towards Hallstatt.

Once you arrive in Hallstatt, it should be sometime around midday or early afternoon. I will warn you now, that the village will be packed by all those day visitors.

For that reason, I recommend just enjoying the lake by the Small Island Viewpoint, heading up the Salzbergbahn to get a view from the Hallstatt Skywalk , and just taking it easy after the drive.

As the day goes on, you will see the town get less and less crowded as all those day trippers leave and the streets become more enjoyable. Spend the evening strolling around the village, taking in the views, and having dinner nearby.

» Note if you are not staying in Hallstatt itself, you may find it difficult to find a parking spot at midday. If that is the case you may want to take the local bus from the village you are staying into Hallstatt.

Learn More : The Hallstatt Itinerary I put together has a ton more info about the village and the things to do there including a visit to the Waldbachstrub Waterfall  if you have the time.

Day 4 – Hallstatt

You can choose from a variety of activities to do on your second day in Hallstatt. In the morning I would recommend getting up early and enjoying the town for an hour without the crowds .

You may also want to visit some of the local attractions such as the Marktplatz, Beinhaus Ossuary and the Lutheran Church.

I would then recommend heading to the Dachstein Krippenstein – a 2,100 meter high mountain overlooking Hallstattsee and the village itself. Up on the Dachstein you can choose from several unique attractions such as:

• The Dachstein Giant Ice Cave
• Mammut Cave
• 5 Fingers Viewing Platform
• Welterbespirale Viewing Platform
• Heilbronner Hiking Trail

On the other hand if you are more of a hiker or thrill seeker, I would HIGHLY recommend a day out to the Donnerkogel and Gosausee.

About 30 minutes away from Hallstatt is the Donnerkogel mountain, which can be hiked normally or be climbed by a Via Ferrata.

Learn More : Check out the Klettersteig Donnerkogel hiking overview

After a day of hiking, head down to Gosausee, one of my favorite lakes in the region (the first image of this itinerary).

You can hop in for a frigid swim as you cool down after the hike. Or you can just relax by the lakeside and stroll around for a bit before returning to Hallstatt for the night.

Day 5 – Salzburg Day Trip / Drive to Mayrhofen

It is now time to leave the village of Hallstatt and make the one hour drive to Salzburg on day 5 of this Austria itinerary.

Since the main area of Salzburg is car free, you will simply need to park at one of the many lots located just outside the town center.

Once you are all parked, it is time to head off for a day of exploring all that Salzburg has to offer. It is a perfect place to spend a day as you get to both enjoy some of the main sites and just spend time wandering around.

I would recommend visiting the following 10 places during your day in Salzburg:

• Hohensalzburg Fortress
• St. Peter’s Abbey
• Kapitelplatz
• Franciscan Church
• Residenzplatz
• Salzburg Cathedral
• Mozartplatz
• Mozart’s Birthplace and Museum
• Getreidegasse
• Mirabell Palace and Gardens

Learn More : Read about each attraction in the One Day Salzburg Itinerary up on the site

After a full day around Salzburg, head back to your car and make the 2 hour drive to the valley town of Mayrhofen. The next two days will be full of outdoor adventure!

Day 6 & 7 – Mayrhofen

The town of Mayrhofen is known both for its hiking and for its skiing. As mentioned though, I was there during the late summer so I will dive into some of my favorite activities and hikes to take part of for the next two days.

Check out some of the top things to do in Mayrhofen during a visit.

Ahornspitze Hike

Directly from town you can take the Ahornbahn up into the surrounding mountainside. From there you can begin the 12 km round trip trail that brings you to the top of the Ahornspitze.

At 2,973 meters high it is one of the tallest in the area and has 360 degree views of the surrounding landscape.

Learn more in the Ahornspitze Hiking Guide

Mayrhofen Via Ferratas

Throughout Mayrhofen and the nearby villages, you will find a variety of Via Ferratas or Klettersteigs.

These fixed line routes are a mix between hiking and mountaineering, and there are plenty to choose from in the area. From nice and easy to very difficult, there will something out there for every skill level.

Learn more in the Mayrhofen Via Ferrata Guide up on the site

Schlegeis 131

You can head further down the valley to the Schlegeis 131 area, where you can take part of a few adrenaline activities that are built above the 131 meter dam wall.

These activities include a Via Ferrata route, a zipline, a bungee jump, and an abseiling station.

Spending some time walking along the Schlegeis lake will be a great way to finish up your time around the area.

The Schlegeis 131 Guide goes over everything you need to know about the different activities

Olperer Hut & Friesenberghaus Hike

One of my favorite hikes in Austria is the one that takes you up to the Olperer Hut and the famous suspension bridge overlooking Schlegeis lake.

The beginning of the hike begins down the road from the Schlegeis 131 area and the route will take you up above the lake into the mountains.

If looking for a longer loop option, you can also add on the Friesenberghaus to your day as well. This will add a few more hours to your day hiking in the Zillertal Alps but it is one that is sure worth the effort.

I have guides for both the Olperer Hut Hike and Friesenberghaus Hike if you would like to learn more

Beyond those, you can also spend some time just enjoying town, heading up the Penkenbahn cable car, or even doing some whitewater rafting.

There is a ton that Mayrhofen has to offer and it would be my recommendation when choosing a base in the Austrian Alps.

After 7 days of making your way through Austria, it is time to head back home or onto your next destination.

Like mentioned at the beginning, you can either make the 5 hour drive back to Vienna, fly from Innsbruck to Vienna, or fly from Innsbruck to another city in Europe.

I hope this Austria itinerary has given you a better idea of how to plan your trip to the country. If you have any questions or comments about the above, feel free to add them in below.

Have fun out there and safe travels!

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Tuesday 26th of March 2024

Hi, I am from india. Planning 6-7days in austria in june24 with 2 kids age 19 and 14. Help me to plan a budget holiday

Sunday 11th of June 2023

Very informative blog, thank you! Can you share details of the hike that takes you up to the Olperer Hut and the famous suspension bridge overlooking Schlegeis lake? How much time does it take and what's the difficulty level? Can it be done without a guide?

Monday 12th of June 2023

Hi Satvik - feel free to take a look at the hiking guide I put together for the hike. It should have all the info you need in there. Enjoy!

Friday 27th of January 2023

Glad to find this website of yours. I am planning to visit on 3rd of April, I was wondering if it will still be snowy that time? I am not really into skiing so I was planning to replace Mayrhofen with Innsbruck. I think Innsbruck would still have some snowy mountains to visit to. Do you think it would be a good idea? Thanks very much.

Sunday 29th of January 2023

Hi Zue - it is likely you will still find snow on the mountains during the beginning of April. Ski season will mostly be over by then, but it is possible some trails may be open. Innsbruck would also be a great option for a visit. No matter which you choose, you should still be able to enjoy some views from on top of cable cars, and hikes at lower altitudes. Enjoy!

Tuesday 25th of October 2022

This itinerary is perfect. Everything we want to do in Austria. The extra links for added adventures are great too. I have two questions: first - how old is this itinerary (is everything still possible); second - is there a similar itinerary for 2-3 weeks? Thanks, Joe & Sandy Canadian travelers and adventurers

Thursday 27th of October 2022

Hi Joe - glad the itinerary has helped. As various attractions may continuously change their rules/hours/etc over time, I would just recommend double checking any places you plan to visit by looking at their websites. I have a hard time believing there would be much that isnt still possible. If you are looking to extend, I would highly recommend combining it with the Bavarian Alps -> https://triptins.com/bavaria-itinerary/. This should give you the perfect 2-3 week itinerary for the region. Enjoy!

Wednesday 19th of August 2020

Hey! Great informative blog. However I would like to know weather we will need a guide for the hikes you have mentioned or we can manage it by own. Your response will be appreciated.

Thursday 20th of August 2020

Hi Medha! Glad you found the blog post helpful.

You should have no problem doing the hikes on your own as they are all well marked throughout. I will say though that you should not do any of the via ferratas on your own if you have not had similar experience in the past. Feel free to take a look at any of the more in depth hiking posts that I linked in the article for more details.

Hope that helps!

• Travel Planning Guide

10 Days in Austria: The Best Tours

Ready for a 10-day journey to Austria that combines relaxation, adventure, and cultural discovery? We've sifted through a wide range of guided tours, meticulously analyzing them based on service, price, guest ratings, and activities. These 10-day tours to Austria are the absolute best based on these criteria, so that your trip planning can be easy and fun. They offer the perfect balance between a leisurely holiday and thrilling escapades, allowing you to immerse yourself in the essence of each destination. From exploring iconic landmarks to savoring the local cuisine, every moment of these tours is designed to provide an enriching and unforgettable experience. Austria is a fantastic destination because of the museums & attractions, skiing, hiking, and family-friendly activities. Get ready to embark on the adventure of a lifetime and make the most of your 10-day escape with one of these amazing tours below.

• Prague, Vienna & Budapest 10 Days, $1379.00
• Authentic Danube & Prague (2024) (Vienna to Prague, 2024) 10 Days, $4499.00
• Authentic Danube & Prague (2024) (Prague to Vienna, 2024) 10 Days, $4499.00

Which 10-day tour options are available in Austria?

Here are the important factors:

• 3 trip options analyzed
• $261 average price per day (USD)
• 4.1 of 5 average rating
• 96 people or less on average

You'll be surprised at the array of tours lasting 10 days in Austria, as there is something for everyone. It's no wonder that visitors can't get enough of these tours, boasting an impressive average guest rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars. Picture yourself joining a group of like-minded adventurers, with an average maximum size of 96 people, ensuring a fantastic blend of social and personalized experiences. With our thorough analysis of 3 tours lasting 10 days, we've found the best. So rest assured that Austria has something to captivate every kind of traveler.

(All tour prices are in US Dollars before taxes, and come from a base price that is reported by TourRadar. Peak season prices can vary significantly, particularly in destinations where seasonal travel fluctuates dramatically.)

So, let's get to it and see...

The 3 Best 10-Day Tours in Austria

Prague, vienna & budapest.

• Great Value: the daily price is lower than average for tours lasting 10 days.
• High Quality: guest ratings are higher than average.

This 10-day journey, visiting Czech Republic, Austria, and Hungary, is ideal for travelers of all ages. And priced at only $138 per day, it's a great value, too. You'll love the emphasis on local culture and family-friendly activities, too. Begin your trip in Prague and complete it with a memorable finale in Budapest. It's offered by Wingbuddy , a very popular company with rave reviews and knowledgeable guides.

• In-depth Cultural

Authentic Danube & Prague (2024) (Vienna to Prague, 2024)

Priced at just $322 per day, this terrific 10-day voyage, visiting Austria, Germany, and Czech Republic, is ideal for guests from 16 to 100 years old. Explore 11 incredible locations on this trip, including Straubing, Regensburg, Nuremberg, and Weissenkirchen. Your journey starts off in Vienna and finishes in Prague. Organized by the reputable Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection , this is one of the best tours on this list.

• River Cruise

Authentic Danube & Prague (2024) (Prague to Vienna, 2024)

Check out this incredible voyage that has received a 4 out of 5 rating from previous guests, visiting Czech Republic, Germany, and Austria. With a duration of 10 days, this journey ensures an intimate group size of 130 people, and is good for guests from 16 to 100 years old. Discover a journey that spans 10 destinations, with notable stops in Nuremberg, Regensburg, Straubing, and Deggendorf. Your journey will begin in Prague and end in Vienna. This fantastic option, organized by Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection , presents an unbeatable value at just $322 per day.

See also The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Austria , The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Austria , The Best Historical Tours in Austria , The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Austria , The Best 2-Week Tours in Austria , The Best River Cruises in Austria , The Best Bicycle Tours in Austria , Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Austria , The Best Christmas & New Years Tours in Austria , The Best Christmas Market Tours in Austria , The Best Coach Bus Tours in Austria , The Best Adventure Tours to Austria , The Best Eco Tours in Austria , The Best Sightseeing Tours in Austria , The Best Cultural Tours in Austria , The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Austria , The Best Music Tours in Austria , The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Austria , The Best Tours Under $1000 in Austria , The Best Luxury Tours to Austria , The Best Budget Tours to Austria , or The Best Tours for Seniors to Austria for more tour ideas. With so many options, there's a guided tour or vacation package for every type of traveler.

Also, if you're departing from a specific destination, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Vienna , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Salzburg , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Innsbruck , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Villach , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Krimml , The Best 10-Day Tours from Vienna , or The Best 2-Week Tours from Vienna for more package tour options.

How much do 10-day tours to Austria cost?

Travelers to Austria will have a large number of terrific options for tours lasting 10 days at a variety of great prices. The price of tours lasting 10 days here can vary by type, destinations, length, and travel style. Based on thorough data from 3 tours lasting 10 days, their average daily price is a very reasonable $261 per day. If you're interested in more information about tours here, see our guide to tour prices in Austria .

And for more information on Austria, see Austria Travel Costs and Austria Hotel Costs .

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10 Day Austria and Italy Tours & Trips

Filter for departure dates and price to find the right 10 day Austria and Italy tour with TourRadar. Choose from 34 trips with 180 customer reviews, that range from 8 up to 10 days.

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34 austria and italy 10 day tour packages with 180 reviews.

• In-depth Cultural
• Coach / Bus
• Christmas & New Year

Classical Symphony with Budapest

The itinerary was great. Tour leaders very professional

• Hiking & Trekking
• Mountain Hikes

From Garmisch to Merano

• Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.

Classical Symphony ( 8 days )

• Self Guided Walking Holidays

Alpine Crossing Oberstdorf - Merano

• Self-Guided Cycling

Alpe-Adria-Cycle Path Salzburg-Grado 10/9

Western and Central Europe: Venice, the Alps & the Flavours of Rome

Awesome tour, awesome people, had a blast! Booked very last minute and still received great service !!

Innsbruck – Verona – Venice (from Innsbruck to Venice)

Hiking in the Dolomites

A simply fantastic experience from so many perspectives. Andy was a brilliant guide… both in terms of hiking and integrating the group. The mountains were extraordinary. What an awesome landscape… and the hiking difficulties were challenging at times but not undoable. Came away with a great sense of achievement. Hoyle very comfortable. Good, solid Tyrolian food. Well organised and lovely company. Totally recommended.

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Rome to Budapest: Canals & Capitals

Alps and Lakes Flashpacking Group Tour

Innsbruck - Lake Garda 8/7

Innsbruck - Bolzano 8/7

• Ski, Snowboard & Snow

Snowshoeing in the Dolomites - Premium Adventure

From Muncih to Lake Garden: The Alpine Crossing

E-Mountain-Bike Transalp

What people love about 10 day austria and italy tours.

Wonderful guides, lots of history, wonderful cities to visit!

What an excellent adventure! Our leader, Andy, was just top notch! So, knowledgeable and accessible. I highly recommend this trip!! Jan

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International Versions

• Deutsch: 10 Tage Österreich-Italien Rundreisen
• Français: Circuits Autriche et Italie de 10 Jours
• Español: Circuitos por Austria e Italia de 10 Días
• Nederlands: 10-Daagse rondreis Oostenrijk en Italië

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10 day trip in Croatia in October 2024 - Croatia Forum

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10 day trip in Croatia in October 2024

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Thanks so much for any tips/advice....I've planned all my trips myself, but don't know anything about Croatia, other than it's a beautiful country.

10 replies to this topic

Tourist places are required to speak English by law, you will be fine.

I do not believe there are any "must sees" because there is so much to see but most popular locations are Rovinj , Dubrovnik, and Plitvice lakes.

Driving is easy in Croatia but parking in cities can be difficult.

October should be fine but sometimes weather (rain) can be an issue.

You need to do some research and figure out what exactly you would like to see.

You need to do some research yourself before we can help.

We could try, but you could end up with a trip that is perfect for me, or somebody else, but not for you.

Get a good guide book, use google, lurk on this forum etc.

Yes, and do provide some more information about your interests. Are for you "must sees" GOT sites, national parks or antique Roman archeological excavations?

Yup...I get that.

Susan, what do you get?

When you press on reply button, it doesn’t attach your response to that post. It puts it at the end of thread. So, we don’t know which post your are replying to unless you specifically mention it.

Adriatic Sea is not an Ocean. No matter where you are on the mainland, you don’t see open sea. Islands all along the coast hide the open sea.

Agree with Cromansydney too, Croatia is not on oceans but on the Adriatic Sea.

I'm used to freshwater lakes...ocean, sea...both are salt water, right? Euros it is. thanks.

Yea, replying here is crazy...even though I click "reply" to a certain post, it displays at the end of all the posts. Go figure. I'll try to be more specific when I reply

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10 days in Pennsylvania: take a trip through the history of the USA

Turn back time during this sweeping trip across Pennsylvania, from the colonial streets of Philadelphia to the now-peaceful hills of Gettysburg battlefield and the maritime heritage of the Great Lakes at Erie.

Pennsylvania is a powerhouse state. It helped to ignite the American Revolution, fuelled the Industrial Revolution and continues to thrive as an epicentre for medical innovations. Situated just below the Great Lakes region on the Eastern Seaboard, the Keystone State is bordered by six states — as well as Lake Erie — and is slashed diagonally by the Appalachian Mountains. This is a destination with a distinctly rich heritage, from the busy city streets of Philadelphia to the Amish communities of Lancaster County and the revered battlefield of Gettysburg National Military Park. And on the cusp of the USA's 250th anniversary of independence — this much-anticipated semiquincentennial takes place in 2026 — a collection of noteworthy events will take place in Pennsylvania, as well as the opening of a number of new war museums and heritage sites. Journey through these spots on a 10-day trip that takes in immersive exhibitions, artistic inspiration and moving memorials, proving there’s no time like the present to peel back the layers of Pennsylvania’s past.

Days 1-3: Philadelphia

Hark back to the Founding Fathers in historic Philly. Make first for the Old City neighbourhood and Elfreth’s Alley , one of the oldest continually inhabited streets in the country, lined with quaint, colourful houses built during the 18th century. From here, it’s a picturesque 15-minute walk to hallowed Independence Hall , where the Declaration of Independence and US Constitution were shaped. Within the grounds of this UNESCO World Heritage Site hangs the whopping 2,080-pound Liberty Bell in its fractured glory, its heavy crack a mark of its prolonged use in public events.  

Visitors can also discover more about the nation’s roots at the Museum of the American Revolution , which launched an exciting new exhibition in February. Witness to Revolution: The Unlikely Travels of Washington's Tent   displays the first president’s war tent alongside historical documents, artefacts and stories of those who preserved it. Another secretive shelter can be found at the 18th-century Johnson House Historic Site , one of the city’s few remaining intact stops of the Underground Railroad, where runaway enslaved people were hidden in the third-floor attic. The house remains a time capsule, with its original Dutch doors, centuries-old cabinets and exhibits including some of the abolitionist owners’ own domestic accoutrements.

Days 4-5: Gettysburg

The hills surrounding the redbrick town of Gettysburg saw one of the most dramatic battles of the American Civil War, one that proved a turning point for the Union. Visit the site where their forces clashed with Confederate troops in July 1863, Gettysburg National Military Park , where the sweeping grounds are now stitched with trails and studded with more than 1,300 monuments. Visitors today can enjoy guided tours, living history demonstrations and even horseback riding routes.

Further south, Little Round Top , a forested hill that was the scene of intense battle, is set to reopen this year after extensive preservation and accessibility works. Pair a visit here with a stop at the Eisenhower National Historic Site , the farm and former weekend retreat of 34th President Dwight D. Eisenhower. But Gettysburg is not content to simply rely on its historic reputation. The city recently saw the opening of two new museums well worth spending half a day exploring: the WWII American Experience and the immersive Beyond the Battle Museum , which uncovers stories of the townspeople caught in the crossfire of war.

Days 6-8: Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh is carved sinuously by three rivers. The Allegheny and Monongahela join to form the Ohio River at Point State Park, which houses the city’s oldest architectural landmark: the 1764-built Fort Pitt Block House . This structure is all that remains of one of the largest British forts in North America during the French and Indian War. For a knock-out panorama of this park and the city beyond, slide steeply up Mount Washington on the Duquesne Incline . Opened in 1877, this charming wooden funicular provides access to one of the best views of Pittsburgh, with its upper station also home to a exhibit on city history.  

The next day, head across the iconic Three Sisters bridges to the Andy Warhol Museum . A founding father of Pop Art, Pittsburgh-born Warhol’s legacy adorns its walls. The museum is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year with a KAWS + Warhol exhibition from 18 May, which will examine the darker themes at play in the colourful, charismatic work of both artists. The museum is also curating a new initiative this year, the Pop District , which is transforming the surrounding neighbourhood into a cultural hub. Join sun-soaked summer gatherings on Silver Street and discover murals splashed across alleyway walls and installations from famous artists like Michael Loveland and Yoko Ono.

Days 9-10: Erie

This pretty port city sits around 130 miles due north of Pittsburgh, on the shores of Lake Erie. It’s laced with trails tracing craggy cliffs, dense woods and gorges sliced by waterfalls, with sailboats plying the southernmost of the Great Lakes. First, spend a few hours learning about the region’s long nautical history at the Erie Maritime Museum . Docked behind the building is a replica of the US Brig Niagara , which played a significant role in the Battle of Lake Erie during the War of 1812, in which the US Navy defeated six British warships. This year, the museum will look skyward on 8 April: head to its plaza for total solar eclipse celebrations as skies darken over Erie during this rare celestial phenomenon. And you can find illumination once again at the area’s three lighthouses, including Presque Isle Lighthouse , in operation since 1873. It opens for the season in April, allowing visitors to climb the tower for striking blue views, then join a tour of the keeper’s home, which still reflects its 19th-century French architectural roots.

Related Topics

• EDUCATIONAL TRAVEL
• MODERN HISTORY
• LIVING HISTORY

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Map: 4.8-Magnitude Earthquake Strikes New Jersey

By William B. Davis ,  Madison Dong ,  Judson Jones ,  John Keefe ,  Bea Malsky and Lazaro Gamio

Shake intensity

A light, 4.8-magnitude earthquake struck in New Jersey on Friday, according to the United States Geological Survey. The quake was felt across the New York City metropolitan area, and from Philadelphia to Boston.

The temblor happened at 10:23 a.m. Eastern about 4 miles north of Whitehouse Station, N.J., data from the agency shows.

As seismologists review available data, they may revise the earthquake's reported magnitude. Additional information collected about the earthquake may also prompt U.S.G.S. scientists to update the shake-severity map.

Aftershocks in the region

At 5:59 p.m. Eastern on Friday, a light aftershock with a magnitude of 3.8 struck near Gladstone, New Jersey, according to U.S.G.S. (The agency initially gave the quake a preliminary magnitude of 4.0.)

An aftershock is usually a smaller earthquake that follows a larger one in the same general area. Aftershocks are typically minor adjustments along the portion of a fault that slipped at the time of the initial earthquake.

Quakes and aftershocks within 100 miles

Aftershocks can occur days, weeks or even years after the first earthquake. These events can be of equal or larger magnitude to the initial earthquake, and they can continue to affect already damaged locations.

How this quake compares

The U.S.G.S. has logged 188 earthquakes with a magnitude of 2.5 or greater within a 250-mile radius of New York City since 1957. In that timeframe, only seven have had a magnitude at or above 4.5. Today’s quake had the third-highest magnitude in the available data.

Today’s earthquake

Magnitude 4.8

250-mile radius

from New York City

Source: U. S.G.S.

By Lazaro Gamio

Source: United States Geological Survey | Notes: Shaking categories are based on the Modified Mercalli Intensity scale. When aftershock data is available, the corresponding maps and charts include earthquakes within 100 miles and seven days of the initial quake. All times above are Eastern. Shake data is as of Friday, April 5 at 10:44 a.m. Eastern. Aftershocks data is as of Sunday, April 7 at 8:24 p.m. Eastern.

• Share full article

Wealth of Geeks

10 Ways to Visit National Parks for Free in 2024

Posted: March 8, 2024 | Last updated: March 8, 2024

From the luscious, towering forests of Yosemite to the vast canyons of the Grand Canyon, America’s national parks offer some of the world’s most breathtakingly beautiful sights.

Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or want to enjoy a day in nature, you probably want to add a few of the country’s National Parks to your bucket list. Free entry into one of these parks is the travel deal you didn’t know you needed in 2024.

Visit on Free Admission Days

There are certain days that all national parks in the United States waive their admission fees and allow visitors in for free. Mark these six days on your calendar to score a free day of adventuring in one of the many magnificent parks across the United States.

• Jan. 15: Martin Luther King Jr. Day
• April 20: First day of National Park Week
• June 19: Juneteenth
• Aug. 4: Anniversary of the signing of the Great American Outdoors Act
• Sept. 28: National Public Lands Day
• Nov. 11: Veterans Day

Plan a Trip to the Free National Parks

There are 63 breathtaking national parks across the United States, and while many require an admission fee, there are a select few that are entirely free to visit. Popular parks like Yellowstone and the Grand Canyon charge an entrance fee, but fortunately, there are 16 awe-inspiring national parks that you can explore for free.

Bring a Fourth Grader Along

If you have a fourth-grade student in your family who can tag along with you to a national park, you’ll get in for free. Every Kid Outdoors offers printable vouchers on their website that can be exchanged at a national park for a fee-free pass for the fourth grader and their family for the year.

Show a Military ID

As a military member, show your ID card and get a free annual pass . Current military members serving in the U.S. armed forces will receive a Military Annual Pass valid for them and their families.

Show a Veteran ID

Those who have served in the military are eligible for a free pass to enter national parks in the U.S. All you need is valid identification, which can include a Veteran Health Identification Card, Veteran ID card, or state-issued ID with the veterans designation on it. You’ll receive a Lifetime Pass that grants you a lifetime of free access to national parks.

Get Your Volunteering Hours In

If you’re passionate about the outdoors, why not volunteer at one of the many Interagency Pass Program federal agencies and get a free annual pass? After logging 250 hours, you’ll have free access to the national parks and entry to over 2,000 federal recreation areas.

These federal agencies include the Bureau of Land Management, the USDA Forest Service, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the National Park Service, and the Bureau of Reclamation.

Visit Your Local Library

Did you know you can check out free park passes at participating libraries? In some libraries, you can use your library card to borrow a state library park pass that gives you a free vehicle day-use pass for a car with nine people or less. California, Michigan, Minnesota, North Dakota, Georgia, and Colorado all participate in the pass program.

Have Proof of Permanent Disability

U.S. citizens or permanent residents who can show proof of permanent disability are eligible for a free lifetime Access Pass . By showing proof of disability and applying in person, by mail, or online, you’ll gain access to America’s breathtaking national parks fee-free. You’ll also benefit from discounts of up to 50% on park amenities like camping.

Show Your Student ID

Some libraries have unique park passes for students to take full advantage of the beautiful national parks during the summer break. For example, Idaho offers a Youth Explorer Ticket to Adventure that gives students free access to Idaho State Parks.

Present Your ID for Proof of Age

People in certain age groups can score free access to some of the country’s national parks. If you were born before Sept. 1, 1930, and live in Texas, you can get a Senior Full Passport that allows you to enter any Texas state park for free with a plus one.

In New York, residents who are 62 years of age or older can visit parks for free during the weekdays. In Louisiana, New Jersey, and Maryland, visitors who are 62 and older have free access to parks, and those in Maine can visit free of charge if they are 65 years or older.

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Your last-minute guide to Monday's total solar eclipse

A total solar eclipse will cross North America on Monday , offering millions a rare opportunity to see afternoon skies temporarily darken as the moon blocks the face of the sun.

Tune into NBC News NOW as Lester Holt hosts a two-hour special at 2 p.m. ET Monday from Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

The eclipse's path fortuitously cuts across Mexico, 15 U.S. states and a small part of eastern Canada. In all other states in the continental U.S., viewers will be treated to a partial solar eclipse, with the moon appearing to take a bite out of the sun and obscuring part of its light.

Here’s everything you need to know about the rare celestial event.

What is a solar eclipse?

Solar eclipses occur when the sun, moon and Earth align. The moon passes between Earth and sun, temporarily blocking the sun’s light and casting a shadow on Earth.

A total solar eclipse is when the moon fully obscures the sun, whereas a partial solar eclipse means it blocks just a portion of the sun’s face.

Solar eclipses occur only with the new moon. Because the moon’s orbit around Earth is tilted, the three bodies don’t always line up in a way that creates an eclipse.

“Imagine if the moon’s orbit were in the plane of Earth’s orbit around the sun — if that were the case, then every new moon, you’d have a total solar eclipse and every full moon, you’d have a lunar eclipse,” Neil DeGrasse Tyson, director of the Hayden Planetarium at the American Museum of Natural History, told NBC News. “So, because things don’t always align, it lends to the rarity of the event and the specialness of the event.”

Where and when will the eclipse be visible?

This year’s eclipse will follow a slightly wider path over more populated areas of the continental U.S. than other total solar eclipses have in the recent past.

NASA estimates that 31.6 million people live within what’s known as the path of totality, where the total solar eclipse will be visible. An additional 150 million people live within 200 miles of the path, according to the agency.

The path travels through Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine. Tiny parts of Michigan and Tennessee will also be able to witness totality if conditions are clear.

After the eclipse crosses into Canada, it will pass over southern Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island and Cape Breton, at the eastern end of Nova Scotia.

Those outside the path of totality can still take part in the astronomical event by viewing a partial solar eclipse — visible throughout all 48 states of the contiguous U.S. — or a NASA livestream.

The timing, including how long totality lasts, depends on the location, but some spots will see the moon fully cover the sun for up to 4 minutes and 28 seconds.

Below is a list of timings for some cities along the path of totality, as  provided by NASA . A number of other resources, including NationalEclipse.com  and  TimeandDate.com , can also help people plan.

• Dallas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:23 p.m. CT and totality at 1:40 p.m.
• Little Rock, Arkansas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:33 p.m. CT and totality at 1:51 p.m.
• Cleveland: Partial eclipse begins at 1:59 p.m. ET and totality at 3:13 p.m.
• Buffalo, New York: Partial eclipse begins at 2:04 p.m. ET and totality at 3:18 p.m.
• Lancaster, New Hampshire: Partial eclipse begins at 2:16 p.m. ET and totality at 3:27 p.m.

How to safely view a solar eclipse

It is never safe to gaze directly at the sun, even when it is partly or mostly covered by the moon. Special eclipse glasses or  pinhole projectors  are required to safely view solar eclipses and prevent eye damage. Failing to take the proper precautions can result in severe eye injury,  according to NASA .

Eclipse glasses are thousands of times darker than normal sunglasses and specially made to enable wearers to look at the sun during these kinds of celestial events.

Sky-watchers should also never view any part of the sun through binoculars, telescopes or camera lenses unless they have specific solar filters attached. Eclipse glasses should not be used with these devices, as they will not provide adequate protection.

However, during the few minutes of totality, when the moon is fully blocking the sun, it is safe to look with the naked eye.

Beware of fake eclipse glasses. On legitimate pairs, the lenses should have a silver appearance on the front and be black on the inside. The manufacturer’s name and address should be clearly labeled, and they should not be torn or punctured. Check, as well, for the ISO logo and the code “IS 12312-2” printed on the inside.

If you don’t have eclipse glasses, you can make a homemade pinhole projector, which lets sunlight in through a small hole, focuses it and projects it onto a piece of paper, wall or other surface to create an image of the sun that is safe to look at. 

All you need is two pieces of white cardboard or plain white paper, aluminum foil and a pin or thumbtack. Cut a 1- to 2-inch square or rectangle out of the center of a piece of white paper or cardboard. Tape aluminum foil over that cut-out shape, then use a pin or thumbtack to poke a tiny hole in the foil.

During the eclipse, place a second piece of white paper or cardboard on the ground as a screen and hold the projector with the foil facing up and your back to the sun. Adjusting how far you hold the projector from the second piece of paper will alter the size of the image on the makeshift screen.

What to look for while viewing the total solar eclipse

For people along the path of totality, there are some fun milestones to keep track of as the total solar eclipse unfolds.

As the eclipse progresses and the sun gets thinner in the sky, it will start to get eerily dark, according to Tyson.

When the last beams of sunlight are about to become obscured, look out for the “diamond ring effect”: The sun’s atmosphere will appear as an illuminated halo, and the last light still visible will look like the diamond of a giant ring.

As the sunlight decreases even further, an effect known as Baily’s beads will be created by the moon’s rugged terrain. Tiny “beads” of light will be visible for only a few seconds around the dark moon, as the last bits of sunlight peer through the moon’s mountains and valleys.

When the moon is fully blocking the sun, it is safe to remove eclipse glasses and look at the total solar eclipse with the naked eye.

Some lucky sky-watchers may even catch a glimpse of a comet .

Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks — nicknamed the “ devil comet ” because an eruption last year left it with two distinct trails of gas and ice in the shape of devil horns — is currently visible from the Northern Hemisphere as it swings through the inner solar system.

The comet can be seen in the early evenings by gazing toward the west-northwest horizon. During the eclipse, when skies darken during totality, it may be possible to see the comet near Jupiter, but its visibility will depend on whether it’s in the middle of an outburst and thus brighter than normal.

Most likely, all eyes will be on the alignment of the moon and sun.

“Most people won’t even notice,” Tyson said. “But if you know to look, it’s there.”

When is the next solar eclipse?

The next total solar eclipse will be in 2026, but it will mostly pass over the Arctic Ocean, with some visibility in Greenland, Iceland, Portugal and northern Spain. In 2027, a total solar eclipse will be visible in Spain and a swath of northern Africa.

The next total solar eclipse visible from North America will be in 2033, but only over Alaska. Then in 2044, a total solar eclipse will cross Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, parts of Canada and Greenland.

The next total solar eclipse to cross the continental U.S. coast-to-coast in will occur in 2045. The path of totality for that eclipse will cut through California, Nevada, Utah, Colorado, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Kansas, Texas, Arkansas, Missouri, Mississippi, Louisiana, Alabama, Georgia and Florida.

Denise Chow is a reporter for NBC News Science focused on general science and climate change.

Lucas Thompson is a content producer for the NBC News Climate Unit.