One-Week Austria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Salzburg to Vienna, Gmunden, and Innsbruck and surrounding area
Description
Included
Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 8-day road trip through Austria. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Austria takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 3 nights in Salzburg, 1 night in Vienna, 1 night in Gmunden, 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 got 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. Schönbrunn Palace and St. Stephen's Cathedral are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Schönbrunn Palace, learn more about the unique Vienna State Opera, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Fortress Hohensalzburg.
As you hit the open road and drive through Salzburg, Vienna, Gmunden, Stadt Kufstein, Gemeinde Rohrberg, Hintertux, Innsbruck, Marktgemeinde Wattens, Stadt Hall in Tirol, and Lähn, 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, accommodation, 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!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1
- Salzburg - Arrival day
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- Mirabell Palace
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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 immersing yourself in Salzburg's charm 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 Mirabell Palace, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Find your way to your hotel in Salzburg. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Austria. Settle in and make plans for the evening.
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 delightful dinner at IMLAUER Sky - Bar & Restaurant in Salzburg, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Indian Restaurant Taj Mahal? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at WeiherWirt as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Salzburg.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting The Salzburg Whiskey Museum - Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Harry Bär is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Darwin's Cafe Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in Austria!
Day 2
- Salzburg
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Drive 24 km, 1 hour 2 min
- Salzburg Zoo Hellbrunn
- Hellbrunn Palace
- Fortress Hohensalzburg
- Red Bull Hangar-7
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Day 2 of your road trip across Austria promises a magnificent time exploring Salzburg. You have 1 night left in Salzburg. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.
Immerse yourself in Salzburg’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Salzburg Zoo. This picture-perfect zoo is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the romantic features of Hellbrunn Palace, a must-visit palace 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 Fortress Hohensalzburg, a popular castle. For a change of scene, check out Hangar-7, known for its stunning features.
Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Austria is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Salzburg. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Begin your culinary exploration in Salzburg by securing a reservation at The Glass Garden. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Ikarus, celebrated for its delectable creative and modern menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover SENNS. Restaurant, a top local spot known for its tantalizing creative menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Mentor's Bar Kultur, known for its lively atmosphere. Monkeys Cafe. Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Schnaitl Pub offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Austria and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 3
- Salzburg
- Vienna
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Drive 299 km, 3 hours 30 min
- Linzer Gasse Platzl
- Haus der Natur
- Mozart's Birthplace
- Mozart Residence
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On day 3 of your road trip in Austria, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Salzburg. In the evening, you’ll end up in Vienna, where you will stay for 1 night.
Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Start at the frequently visited Linzer Gasse Platzl, an enchanting street in Salzburg. Next, go to Haus Der Natur Salzburg.
After visiting Linzer Gasse Platzl and Haus Der Natur Salzburg, have a stroll along Salzburg's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Mozart's Birthplace. This photogenic museum offers a unique experience. Mozart Residence is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Vienna, 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 Vienna's best restaurants.
Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Vienna by booking a table at Amador, a 3-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional creative and contemporary menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Mraz & Sohn, renowned for its delectable creative dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit Steirereck im Stadtpark, a local gem known for its delightful creative and contemporary cuisine in Vienna. Nestled in the city's heart, this 2-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Tapete Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Star Inn Hotel Wien Schönbrunn is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Kruger’s American Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Austria.
Day 4
- Vienna
- Gmunden
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Drive 249 km, 3 hours 19 min
- St. Stephen's Cathedral
- Vienna State Opera
- MuseumsQuartier
- Schönbrunn Palace
- Schönbrunn Palace Park
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Austria. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Vienna. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Gmunden, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Start by visiting St. Stephen's Cathedral, a prime spot to begin your journey. This visually striking church is sure to impress. Next on your list is Vienna State Opera, another must-visit landmark and extraordinary opera house renowned for its historic features.
While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Vienna by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Museumsquartier. This picture-perfect museum is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Vienna experience. We also recommend visiting Schönbrunn Palace, a timeless palace. Nearby, you'll also find Schönbrunn Palace, ready to add charm to your journey.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Gmunden. Gmunden offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Gmunden. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the town, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Runningsushi Bamboo, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Auszeit | Cafe-Bar-Restaurant? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at San Marino as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Gmunden.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Seelounge Gmunden, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Die Strandung is another popular option for a drink or two.
Say good night to Gmunden and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Austria!
Day 5
- Gmunden
- Innsbruck
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Drive 360 km, 4 hours 52 min
- Kufstein Fortress
- Zillertal Arena
- Hintertuxer Gletscher
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On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Austria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Stadt Kufstein, Gemeinde Rohrberg, and Hintertux. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Innsbruck, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.
Today’s route brings fun adventures, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots. The first attraction of today is Kufstein Fortress. This intriguing castle is a historic place to see in Gmunden. Continue your discovery at Zillertal Arena, an awe-inspiring ski resort with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Gmunden, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this town so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Hintertuxer Gletscher. This captivating glacier offers an instagrammable encounter with Gmunden. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Gmunden.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Innsbruck. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
As you explore more of Innsbruck, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Stiftskeller, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Thai-Li-Ba offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Breakfast Club is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Innsbruck.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Café Bar Dinzler, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Music-bar Zappa offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Innsbruck. Cafe Katzung is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Austria!
Day 6
- Innsbruck
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Drive 12 km, 43 min
- Bergisel Ski Jump
- Triumphal Arch
- Golden Roof
- Innsbrucker Hofgarten
- Alpenzoo Innsbruck - Tirol
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On day 6 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Innsbruck. You’ll stay in Innsbruck for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.
Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Innsbruck, including an observation deck, a monument, a historical landmark, a park, a zoo and much more! Start your day with a visit to Bergisel Ski Jump. This underrated observation deck is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Triumphpforte, which may be one of the most symbolic places you will experience today.
One of the best things about exploring Innsbruck on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Golden Roof, a notable historical landmark in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Innsbrucker Hofgarten and Alpenzoo Innsbruck - Tirol.
Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Austria is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Innsbruck's best restaurants.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Gasthof Goldener Adler, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Sixty Twenty Bar und Cafe offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Café Central is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Innsbruck.
Keep the evening going at Montagu Bed & Beers, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Dom Cafe-bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Plansch Bar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Austria!
Day 7
- Innsbruck
- Salzburg
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Drive 348 km, 5 hours 5 min
- Swarovski Crystal Worlds
- Naturpark Karwendel
- Highline179
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your road trip in Austria. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Marktgemeinde Wattens, Stadt Hall in Tirol, and Lähn. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Salzburg. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Innsbruck, including an art installation, a nature reserve, and a canopy walk. Start your day with a visit to Swarovski Kristallwelten. This well-known art installation is a must-visit in the town. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Naturpark Karwendel, which may be one of the most serene places you will experience today.
One of the best things about exploring Innsbruck on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Highline179, a captivating canopy walk in the town.
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.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Salzburg's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Dine in style at Austria Trend Hotel Europa Salzburg, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Restaurant Riedenburg boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Die Weisse. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Salzburg.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Austria.
Day 8
- Salzburg - Departure day
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- Mozartplatz
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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 Mozartplatz, a culturally significant public square before you head out.
Make the most of your final day in Austria by visiting Salzburg’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Austria.
Before you conclude your road trip in Austria, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Salzburg.
Savor the flavors at St. Peter Stiftskulinarium, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Afro Cafe beckons with its unique menu offerings.
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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