One-Week Austria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Salzburg to Bad Ischl and Innsbruck

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Photo of beautiful scenic view on Salzburg skyline with Festung Hohensalzburg in the summer, Austria.
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Escape the ordinary with this exciting 8-day road trip through Austria. Explore diverse landscapes, discover lively cities, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!

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, 2 nights in Bad Ischl, and 2 nights in Innsbruck. 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 Swarovski Kristallwelten are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.

As you hit the open road and drive through Salzburg, Hallstatt, Bad Ischl, Innsbruck, Marktgemeinde Wattens, Zell Am See, and Kaprun, 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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Day1

Day 1

  • Salzburg - Arrival day
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  • Linzergasse
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Say hello to Salzburg! 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 Salzburg for 2 nights before you continue your adventure!

Salzburg is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. 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 Salzburg. 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 Salzburg, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Make sure to reserve a table at IMLAUER Sky - Bar & Restaurant in Salzburg, an iconic dining spot in Salzburg. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Indian Restaurant Taj Mahal, a popular restaurant in Salzburg. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of WeiherWirt, a hidden gem nestled in Salzburg. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into The Salzburg Whiskey Museum - Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Harry Bär offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Darwin's Cafe Bar, another top-rated bar in the area.

Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in Austria!

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Day2

Day 2

  • Salzburg
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Drive 24 km, 1 hour 13 min

  • Salzburg Zoo Hellbrunn
  • Salzburg Cathedral
  • Mozartplatz
  • Mirabell Palace
  • Red Bull Hangar-7
  • Altstadt
  • More

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to discover what to see in Salzburg. You’ll stay in Salzburg for 1 night.

Don’t miss Altstadt today, a must-see neighborhood that offers a glimpse into the city’s vibrant character. Take your time to explore its best features, and enjoy the convenience of nearby top-rated landmarks.

Catch Salzburg Zoo before the crowds roll in. This mesmerizing zoo is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the picture-perfect features of Salzburg Cathedral, a must-visit church 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 Mozartplatz, an interesting public square. 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.

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Augustiner Bräu Mülln, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? ARCOTEL Castellani Salzburg offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Stadtalm. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Salzburg.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Mentor's Bar Kultur, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Monkeys Cafe. Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Schnaitl Pub also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

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Day3

Day 3

  • Salzburg
  • Hallstatt
  • Bad Ischl
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Drive 98 km, 2 hours 7 min

  • Hallstätter Wasserfall
  • Viewpoint Hallstatt
  • Evangelische Pfarrkirche Hallstatt
  • Marktplatz Hallstatt
  • Salzwelten Hallstatt
  • Kaiservilla
  • More

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

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Hallstatt, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Salzburg to Hallstatt may take around 1 hour 11 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Hallstatt, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Hallstätter Wasserfall is an up-and-coming waterfall we recommend visiting today. Discover its eye-catching features before continuing your self-guided tour to Panoramic Viewpoint - Hallstatt, an eye-catching observation deck that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by Christuskirche (hallstatt), an UNESCO world heritage-listed church. While you’re nearby, don’t forget to visit Marktplatz Hallstatt, a history-steeped and truly unique public square.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Lahn, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Bad Ischl. This drive usually takes around 26 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Memory Of Mankind, a curiosity-inducing cave that everyone visiting Lahn should see.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Bad Ischl, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Lahn to Bad Ischl may take around 26 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Bad Ischl, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Kaiservilla, an underrated palace that everyone visiting Bad Ischl should see.

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

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Taverna Corfu Bad Ischl, a top-rated dining destination in Bad Ischl. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Cafe-Restaurant Zauner, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Gasthaus Zur Bürgerstubn. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bad Ischl this evening.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Café Bar Lafayette. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Stehbeisl offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day4

Day 4

  • Bad Ischl
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Drive 228 km, 4 hours 7 min

  • 5 Fingers
  • Amusement park Rittisberg
  • Eispalast Dachstein
  • Dachstein Skywalk
  • More

On day 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Bad Ischl, where you have 1 night left to stay.

Spend your afternoon discovering 5 Fingers, a worthwhile observation deck known for its stunning features.

Liezen’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Schildlehen behind. This drive usually takes around 14 min. Liezen welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Amusement Park Rittisberg. Spend some time admiring the instagrammable features of the amusement park before you continue to your next stop.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Liezen. This drive usually takes around 14 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the hamlet's best attractions, visit Eispalast Dachstein, an increasingly popular cave 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 Dachstein Skywalk and admire its eye-catching features.

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

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Börni Börger, a top-rated dining spot in Bad Ischl. If you're in the mood for something new, try Landhotel Hubertushof, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Salzmühle Bier- u Weinstube. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Bad Ischl.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Austria!

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Day5

Day 5

  • Bad Ischl
  • Innsbruck
  • More

Drive 246 km, 3 hours 25 min

  • Innsbrucker Hofgarten
  • Altstadt Innsbruck
  • Golden Roof
  • Cathedral of St. Jacob
  • Eduard-Wallnöfer-Platz
  • Triumphal Arch
  • More

Your itinerary for day 5 of your road trip in Austria includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Innsbruck. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Innsbruck, where you'll spend 2 nights.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Innsbruck may take around 2 hours 57 min. Upon your arrival in Innsbruck, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Innsbrucker Hofgarten, an intriguing park in Innsbruck. Explore its mesmerizing features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Innenstadt. This increasingly popular public square is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Golden Roof is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most respected historical landmark in the region. Next, continue your sightseeing at the increasingly popular Innsbruck Cathedral and discover what makes this church unique. If you’re up for one more stop in the city, head to Eduard-wallnöfer-platz, a noteworthy public square many travelers find the visit worthwhile.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Innsbruck. Check in and relax before you head out to tour 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 Innsbruck, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Make sure to reserve a table at Stiftskeller, an iconic dining spot in Innsbruck. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Thai-Li-Ba, a popular restaurant in Innsbruck. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Breakfast Club, a hidden gem nestled in Innsbruck. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Café Bar Dinzler, known for its lively atmosphere. Music-bar Zappa is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Cafe Katzung offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Austria!

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Day6

Day 6

  • Innsbruck
  • Wattens
  • More

Drive 51 km, 1 hour 12 min

  • Swarovski Crystal Worlds
  • Ambras Castle Innsbruck
  • Bergisel Ski Jump
  • Alpenzoo Innsbruck - Tirol
  • More

On day 6 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Innsbruck, where you still have 1 night left. You'll spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city, including Marktgemeinde Wattens and Innsbruck.

Make time for Ambras Castle Innsbruck, a curiosity-inducing castle that is worthwhile a visit in the town. Nearby, you’ll find Bergisel Ski Jump, enchanting visitors with its picture-perfect appeal. Continue your exploration at Alpenzoo Innsbruck - Tirol. This zoo is one of the town’s most locally renowned spots.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Marktgemeinde Wattens may take around 21 min. Upon your arrival in Marktgemeinde Wattens, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Swarovski Kristallwelten is a locally renowned art installation we recommend visiting today. Discover its detailed features before continuing your self-guided tour.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Innsbruck and your accommodation.

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

Savor the flavors at Gasthof Goldener Adler, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Sixty Twenty Bar und Cafe beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Café Central. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Innsbruck tonight.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Montagu Bed & Beers, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Dom Cafe-bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Plansch Bar. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

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Day7

Day 7

  • Innsbruck
  • Zell am See
  • Kaprun
  • Salzburg
  • More

Drive 260 km, 4 hours 10 min

  • Thumersbach Park
  • Zell am see esplanade
  • Sigmund Thun Gorge
  • Kaprun Castle
  • More

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in Austria. Today you'll explore 2 destinations, including Zell Am See and Kaprun. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Salzburg, where you'll spend 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Zell Am See. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 13 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Savor the day by heading to Thumersbach Park, a worthwhile park that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Zell Am See Esplanade, where you can soak in the stunning surroundings.

Kaprun’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Zell Am See behind. This drive usually takes around 17 min. Kaprun welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Spend your afternoon discovering Sigmund-thun-klamm, a beloved canyon known for its enchanting features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Kaprun Castle, a curiosity-inducing castle.

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Austria Trend Hotel Europa Salzburg, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Restaurant Riedenburg offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Die Weisse is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Salzburg.

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

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Day8

Day 8

  • Salzburg - Departure day
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  • Fortress Hohensalzburg
  • More

Day 8 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 Fortress Hohensalzburg, a respected castle before you head out.

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

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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