7-Day Austria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Linz traveling south to Salzburg, Bad Ischl, and Graz

1 / 85
Photo of Holy Trinity column on the Main Square, Linz, Austria.
Perfect travel plans
Everything included
Fully customizable

Description

Included

Flights
Hotel
Select dates
Car rental
Select dates
Tours & tickets
Select dates
Travel plan
From A to Z
Travel agent
24/7 fast service

Description

Explore the best of Austria on a remarkable 7-day road trip! Combine exploration with relaxation on a self-drive tour featuring Linz, Salzburg, Hallstatt, Bad Ischl, Graz, Gemeinde Melk, Gemeinde Dürnstein, and Krems a der Donau.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in Austria. You will spend 2 nights in Linz, 1 night in Salzburg, 2 nights in Bad Ischl, and 1 night in Graz. 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 Linz, 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 Schlossberg are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.

As you hit the open road and drive through Linz, Salzburg, Hallstatt, Bad Ischl, Graz, Gemeinde Melk, Gemeinde Dürnstein, and Krems a der Donau, 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!

Read more

Travel details

Set your travel details to find the best price

Flights

Round trip
Round trip
Travel dates

Travelers

Rooms

Flights

Compare and choose from the best flights to Linz

Car

Choose from the best car rental deals or see all options

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

Personalize your itinerary

Customize tours under each day and destination

Day1

Day 1

  • Linz - Arrival day
  • More
  • Linz’s main square
  • More

Say hello to Linz! Your exciting road trip through Austria is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Linz for 1 night before you continue your adventure!

Linz 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 Linz’s Main Square. Taking a stroll in the city center is a great alternative. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Linz. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Austria. We recommend staying at a central location for easy access to key areas in the city.

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 Linz, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

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.

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

Raise a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in Austria!

Read more
Day2

Day 2

  • Linz
  • Salzburg
  • More

Drive 139 km, 2 hours 15 min

  • Fortress Hohensalzburg
  • Salzburg Cathedral
  • Mozart's Birthplace
  • Mirabellgarten
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 of your road trip in Austria. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 place, which are Salzburg. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Salzburg, where will spend 1 night.

Set your GPS to Salzburg and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 37 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Salzburg beckons with new experiences!

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Fortress Hohensalzburg, a captivating castle that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Salzburg Cathedral and admire its historic features.

When you’re ready, continue to Mozart's Birthplace, a popular museum beloved by locals and tourists alike. Don't miss out on Mirabell Gardens, another highlight of the area that promises a memorable visit.

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

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Salzburg. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at IMLAUER Sky - Bar & Restaurant in 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 Indian Restaurant Taj Mahal, 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 WeiherWirt. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Salzburg tonight.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, The Salzburg Whiskey Museum - Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Harry Bär offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Darwin's Cafe Bar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Say good night to Salzburg and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Austria!

Read more
Day3

Day 3

  • Salzburg
  • Hallstatt
  • Bad Ischl
  • More

Drive 98 km, 1 hour 56 min

  • Hallstätter See
  • Salzwelten Hallstatt
  • Marktplatz Hallstatt
  • Evangelische Pfarrkirche Hallstatt
  • Viewpoint Hallstatt
  • More

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Austria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, including Lahn and Hallstatt. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Bad Ischl, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Hallstätter See and explore the eye-catching features.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Lahn, home to many well-known sights in the region. Upon arrival in Lahn, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Memory Of Mankind. Spend some time admiring the picturesque features of the cave before you continue to your next stop.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Bad Ischl. This car ride takes around 23 min.

Our first attraction recommendation in Hallstatt is Marktplatz Hallstatt, a beloved public square that draws attention for its history-steeped features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Christuskirche (hallstatt), an UNESCO world heritage-listed church that stands out in the hamlet.

Time flies when you're having fun! But don't forget to stop for a bit to eat and drink between your adventures. When you're rested and recharged, head to Panoramic Viewpoint - Hallstatt, a notable observation deck that offers a unique experience.

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

Bad Ischl is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Bad Ischl.

Dine in style at Taverna Corfu Bad Ischl, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Cafe-Restaurant Zauner boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Gasthaus Zur Bürgerstubn. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Bad Ischl.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Café Bar Lafayette, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Stehbeisl is another popular option for a drink or two.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Austria.

Read more
Day4

Day 4

  • Bad Ischl
  • More

Drive 227 km, 4 hours 4 min

  • 5 Fingers
  • Dachstein-Gletscher (Schladming-Dachstein)
  • Eispalast Dachstein
  • More

Greet day 4 of your road trip in Austria with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You have 1 night to stay in Bad Ischl, so get ready to make the most of your time in the region. On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Liezen.

Savor the day by heading to 5 Fingers, a frequently visited observation deck that draws visitors from near and far.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Liezen and set your GPS to Bad Ischl. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 1 hour 40 min. Upon reaching Bad Ischl, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the region's best attractions, visit Dachstein-gletscher (schladming-dachstein), a curiosity-inducing glacier that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Eispalast Dachstein and admire its noteworthy features.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Bad Ischl.

Bad Ischl is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Bad Ischl.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Börni Börger, a highly-rated dining destination in Bad Ischl. If you're eager to try something different, consider Landhotel Hubertushof, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Salzmühle Bier- u Weinstube. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Bad Ischl this evening.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Austria!

Read more
Day5

Day 5

  • Bad Ischl
  • Graz
  • More

Drive 196 km, 3 hours 4 min

  • Eggenberg Palace, Graz
  • Schlossberg
  • Schlossbergbahn
  • Kunsthaus Graz
  • Main square of Graz
  • More

Your itinerary for day 5 of your road trip in Austria includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Graz. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Graz, where you'll spend 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Graz. This car ride takes around 2 hours 24 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Schloss Eggenberg. Spend some time admiring the UNESCO world heritage-listed features of the palace before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Schlossberg. This captivating castle is a traveler-favorite in the city.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Schlossbergbahn. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the tramway. Next, take your journey to Kunsthaus Graz, an up-and-coming art gallery. Conclude your sightseeing at Hauptplatz, Graz, known for its enchanting features.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Graz. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Cafe Mitte, a top-rated dining destination in Graz. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Molly Malone Irish Pub, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Zur Steirerstub'n. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Graz this evening.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like The Churchill, known for its lively atmosphere. Cohibar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Hops Craft Beer Pub Graz offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Austria!

Read more
Day6

Day 6

  • Graz
  • Melk
  • Dürnstein
  • Linz
  • More

Drive 457 km, 5 hours 44 min

  • Melk Abbey
  • Tausendeimerberg
  • Rotes Tor
  • Stift Dürnstein
  • More

On day 6 of your road trip in Austria, your travel plans include 4 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Gemeinde Melk, Quitten, Gemeinde Dürnstein, and Krems a der Donau are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Linz, where you will stay for 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Gemeinde Melk, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Graz to Gemeinde Melk may take around 2 hours 54 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Gemeinde Melk, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Melk Abbey is a popular monastery we recommend visiting today. Discover its enchanting features before continuing your self-guided tour.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Quitten. This car ride takes around 21 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Tausendeimerberg, a frequently visited vineyard known for its serene features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Rotes Tor, Spitz, a worthwhile historical landmark.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Gemeinde Dürnstein, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Quitten to Gemeinde Dürnstein may take around 15 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Gemeinde Dürnstein, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Savor the day by heading to Stift Dürnstein, a locally appreciated monastery that draws visitors from near and far.

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.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Linz. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Make sure to reserve a table at VAPIANO Linz, an iconic dining spot in Linz. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Fu Cheng, a popular restaurant in Linz. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Wia z'haus Lehner, a hidden gem nestled in Linz. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Exxtrablatt, a top-rated bar in the area.

As the sun sets, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Austria.

Read more
Day7

Day 7

  • Linz - Departure day
  • More
  • Linzer Mariendom
  • More

Day 7 of your road trip in Austria is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Linz 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, begin at New Cathedral, Linz. This intriguing church is a hotspot among locals.

For a shopping spree in Linz, we recommend the lively Arkade Linz. Here, you'll find a range of shops you can browse for some souvenir shopping. Discover boutiques with stylish fashion choices to upgrade your wardrobe.

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

Savor the flavors at ARCOTEL Nike, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, STEAKHOUSE beckons with its unique menu offerings.

You’ll then say farewell to Linz. 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!

Read more

How it works

Book your journey with Europe’s biggest travel platform—expert itineraries, instant confirmation, and full flexibility with 24/7 support.

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.
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.

We guarantee

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

Similar travel packages

Discover other popular vacations in Austria

Link to appstore phone
Install Europe’s biggest travel app

Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place

Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.