5-Day Austria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Salzburg traveling east to Linz

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Photo of beautiful scenic view on Salzburg skyline with Festung Hohensalzburg in the summer, Austria.
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Experience the freedom of the open road on an unforgettable 5-day road trip in Austria! Embark on a self-drive tour that caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Salzburg, Hallstatt, Linz, Bad Ischl, and Gosau.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in Austria. You will spend 3 nights in Salzburg and 1 night in Linz. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!

With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Austria. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have you covered.

Upon arriving in Salzburg, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Austria on your own terms.

An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Austria. Fortress Hohensalzburg and Mirabell Palace are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Mozart's Birthplace, learn more about the unique Hangar-7, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Panoramic Viewpoint - Hallstatt.

As you hit the open road and drive through Salzburg, Hallstatt, Linz, Bad Ischl, and Gosau, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Austria. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Austria.

Throughout your road trip in Austria, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Austria.

This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodations, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.

The best services in Austria fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Austria today!

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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Pick-up: 10:00
Drop-off: 10:00

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Salzburg - Arrival day
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  • Linzergasse
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Welcome to Salzburg, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Austria! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 2 nights discovering what to see in Salzburg before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Salzburg is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Linzergasse, a must-see street, and taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

When you're ready for some downtime, make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Salzburg. Make yourself at home and unwind before heading out again.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Salzburg, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a delicious meal at IMLAUER Sky - Bar & Restaurant in Salzburg, a highly-rated dining destination in Salzburg. If you're eager to try something different, consider Indian Restaurant Taj Mahal, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at WeiherWirt. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Salzburg this evening.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at The Salzburg Whiskey Museum - Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Harry Bär. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Darwin's Cafe Bar, another top-rated place in the area.

Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Austria!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Salzburg
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Drive 13 km, 1 hour 9 min

  • Fortress Hohensalzburg
  • Erzabtei / Stift St Peter Salzburg
  • Salzburg Cathedral
  • Mirabell Palace
  • Red Bull Hangar-7
  • Altstadt
  • More

Day 2 of your road trip across Austria promises a magnificent time exploring what to see in Salzburg. You have 1 night left in Salzburg. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Altstadt is a fantastic place you can explore today in Salzburg. This neighborhood is a testament to the city’s character, and it's easy to spend hours just walking around and admiring the surroundings. Soak in the Salzburg-way-of-life and visit all the nearby sights.

Catch Fortress Hohensalzburg before the crowds roll in. This visually striking castle is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the stunning features of St. Peter's Abbey, a must-visit monastery in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Salzburg Cathedral, a popular church. For a change of scene, check out Mirabell Palace, known for its history-steeped features. We also recommend visiting Hangar-7. This aviation museum is a must for anyone looking to experience the city to the fullest.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Austria. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Salzburg's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Augustiner Bräu Mülln, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try ARCOTEL Castellani Salzburg? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Stadtalm as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Salzburg.

Continue your lively evening at Mentor's Bar Kultur, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Monkeys Cafe. Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Schnaitl Pub ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Austria!

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Salzburg
  • Linz
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Drive 204 km, 3 hours 29 min

  • Salzwelten Hallstatt
  • Viewpoint Hallstatt
  • Ars Electronica Center
  • Dreifaltigkeitssäule
  • Linz’s main square
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Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Austria. Today you'll explore 3 destinations, including Lahn, Hallstatt, and Linz. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Linz, where you'll spend 1 night.

Visiting Memory Of Mankind is always a good idea. This worthwhile cave is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the UNESCO world heritage-listed wonders of Panoramic Viewpoint - Hallstatt, a must-see observation deck in the hamlet.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Ars Electronica Center. This increasingly popular science center offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Dreifaltigkeitssäule, where you can take in awe-inspiring features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Linz’s Main Square. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Linz. Linz offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Linz's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Don’t miss out on dining at PAULS steak & veggi Linz, a top-rated dining destination in Linz. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider nuba - bar with kitchen, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Coconut Thai Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Linz this evening.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Divino offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Café Bar Walker is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Solaris is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Austria!

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Linz
  • Salzburg
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Drive 359 km, 6 hours 5 min

  • Kaiservilla
  • 5 Fingers
  • Eispalast Dachstein
  • Calvary Gosau
  • More

On day 4 of your road trip in Austria, your travel plans include 3 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Bad Ischl, Liezen, and Gosau are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Salzburg, where you will stay for 1 night.

Look forward to a unique sightseeing adventure at the up-and-coming Kaiservilla and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, 5 Fingers, an awe-inspiring observation deck that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Eispalast Dachstein, one of the town’s most intriguing spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the up-and-coming Calvary Gosau.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Salzburg, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Salzburg's best restaurants.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Austria Trend Hotel Europa Salzburg, a popular restaurant in Salzburg. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Salzburg at Restaurant Riedenburg, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Die Weisse. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Salzburg tonight.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Austria!

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Salzburg - Departure day
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  • Mozart's Birthplace
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Day 5 of your road trip in Austria is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Salzburg before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Mozart's Birthplace, a historic museum before you head out.

Take advantage of your accommodation's proximity to Salzburg’s shopping district for some last-minute bargain hunting. Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.

Before you conclude your road trip in Austria, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Salzburg.

If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Afro Cafe, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Salzburg. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in Austria!

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Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.
Secure your spot
Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.
Get instant confirmation
Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.

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Your trip is protected, personalized, and priced right. No surprises, no stress.

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