One-Week Austria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Salzburg traveling east to Vienna and Graz
Description
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Description
Explore the best of Austria on a 8-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Salzburg, Gemeinde Melk, Vienna, Graz, and Pörtschach am Wörther See. This road trip itinerary in Austria seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.
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, 3 nights in Vienna, 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 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.
As you hit the open road and drive through Salzburg, Gemeinde Melk, Vienna, Graz, and Pörtschach am Wörther See, 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
- 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 taking a stroll in the city center. 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 hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.
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.
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.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, The Salzburg Whiskey Museum - Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Harry Bär is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Darwin's Cafe Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in Austria!
Day 2 – Salzburg
- Salzburg
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Drive 25 km, 1 hour 2 min
- Salzburg Zoo Hellbrunn
- Hellbrunn Palace
- Fortress Hohensalzburg
- Red Bull Hangar-7
- Haus der Natur
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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.
Discover a day packed with an awe-inspiring, a visually striking, a charming, a respected, and a majestic in Salzburg. Begin your sightseeing with Salzburg Zoo. This well-known zoo is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Hellbrunn Palace, another must-visit attraction that enhances the city’s allure.
As you wander through the inviting streets of Salzburg, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Fortress Hohensalzburg. This notable castle is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Hangar-7, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Conclude your day at Haus Der Natur Salzburg and uncover why it's recognized as one of the city's most captivating attractions.
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 you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Salzburg. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Experience a symphony of flavors at The Glass Garden in Salzburg by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, The Glass Garden delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious modern cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Ikarus, acclaimed for its delectable creative and modern specialties. This local 2-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at SENNS. Restaurant, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 2-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for creative cuisine in the city.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Mentor's Bar Kultur, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Monkeys Cafe. Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Schnaitl Pub is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Austria.
Day 3 – Salzburg, Gemeinde Melk, and Vienna
- Salzburg
- Melk
- Vienna
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Drive 307 km, 3 hours 36 min
- Linzer Gasse Platzl
- Haus der Natur
- Mozart's Birthplace
- Melk Abbey
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Austria. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Salzburg and Gemeinde Melk. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Vienna, which will be your home away from home for 3 nights.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Salzburg today. One of the most increasingly popular attractions included on the itinerary is Linzer Gasse Platzl. This history-steeped street will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Mozart's Birthplace and learn what makes this instagrammable museum unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Salzburg, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Gemeinde Melk may take around 2 hours 15 min. Upon your arrival in Gemeinde Melk, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
Head to Melk Abbey, a locally renowned monastery in Gemeinde Melk. Explore its visually striking features at your own pace before you continue your journey.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Vienna. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Vienna's best restaurants.
Have a memorable dining experience in Vienna by booking a table at Amador, renowned as a 3-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional creative and contemporary menu. For a different culinary experience in Vienna, Mraz & Sohn shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious creative cuisine. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Steirereck im Stadtpark is known as a top local spot for its delicious creative and contemporary cuisine in Vienna. This 2-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Tapete Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Star Inn Hotel Wien Schönbrunn offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Vienna. Kruger’s American Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
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
- Vienna
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Drive 18 km, 55 min
- Schönbrunn Zoo
- Schönbrunn Palace
- MuseumsQuartier
- Museum of Natural History Vienna
- St. Stephen's Cathedral
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Day 4 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Vienna has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in Vienna by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.
Get ready for a day filled with an enchanting, a picture-perfect, a charming, a heritage-rich, a majestic, an UNESCO world heritage-designated, and an inviting in the charming city of Vienna. Your adventure starts at Tiergarten Schönbrunn, an extraordinary local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Schönbrunn Palace. This globally renowned palace is known for its visually striking appeal.
After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Vienna's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Museumsquartier. This instagrammable museum offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Museum Of Natural History Vienna is also worth visiting, along with St. Stephen's Cathedral. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.
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 you explore more of Vienna, 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.
Dine in style at Boutiquehotel Stadthalle, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Restaurant Ofenloch boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Flanagans. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Vienna.
Unwind after your meal by stepping into Miranda Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Josef Cocktailbar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Roberto American Bar Ii, another top-rated bar in the area.
Say good night to Vienna and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Austria!
Day 5 – Vienna
- Vienna
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Drive 22 km, 1 hour 7 min
- Schönbrunn Palace Park
- Vienna State Opera
- Albertina
- Heldenplatz
- Hofburg Palace
- St. Stephen's Cathedral
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On day 5 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Vienna. You’ll stay in Vienna 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 Vienna, including a park, an opera house, a museum, a public square, a palace and much more! Start your day with a visit to Schönbrunn Palace. This widely recognized park is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Vienna State Opera, which may be one of the most romantic places you will experience today.
One of the best things about exploring Vienna 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 Albertina, one of the city’s most captivating museum. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Heldenplatz and Hofburg Palace.
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 long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Vienna. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Puerstner, a top-rated dining destination in Vienna. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Vollpension, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Zum Schwarzen Kameel. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Vienna this evening.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Loos American Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Brandauer Bierstube offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Austria!
Day 6 – Vienna and Graz
- Vienna
- Graz
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Drive 209 km, 2 hours 55 min
- St. Stephen's Cathedral
- Hundertwasserhaus
- Viennese Giant Ferris Wheel
- Citypark
- Belvedere Palace
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in Austria. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Vienna. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Graz. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Vienna, featuring a breathtaking, an eye-catching, a history-steeped, a detailed, a romantic, and a scenic. Start at Hundertwasserhaus, an interesting art installation in the city. Then, head to Viennese Giant Ferris Wheel and soak in the ambiance of this instagrammable observation deck.
There are many interesting places to see in Vienna and when you are ready for more, go to Stadtpark. This is one of the city’s most notable spots. After exploring the park, visit the top-rated Belvedere Palace Chapel.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Graz, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Graz. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Cafe Mitte, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Molly Malone Irish Pub offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Zur Steirerstub'n. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Graz.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at The Churchill. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Cohibar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Hops Craft Beer Pub Graz provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Say good night to Graz and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Austria!
Day 7 – Graz, Pörtschach am Wörther See, and Salzburg
- Graz
- Pörtschach am Wörthersee
- Salzburg
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Drive 380 km, 4 hours 47 min
- Main square of Graz
- Uhrturm
- Schlossberg
- Pyramidenkogel Tower
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Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in Austria. Today you will explore Graz and Pörtschach am Wörther See, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Salzburg. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Graz is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a public square, a monument, and a castle. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the interesting Hauptplatz, Graz. Just a short distance away is Clock Tower In Graz, an enchanting monument that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to Schlossberg, one of the city’s most notable spots that you shouldn’t miss.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Pörtschach am Wörther See, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Graz to Pörtschach am Wörther See may take around 2 hours 4 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Pörtschach am Wörther See, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
Take your self-guided tour to Pyramidenkogel Tower, a well-known observation deck that everyone visiting Pörtschach am Wörther See should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Salzburg. Salzburg offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Salzburg. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Make sure to book a table at Austria Trend Hotel Europa Salzburg, a popular restaurant in Salzburg. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Salzburg at Restaurant Riedenburg, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Die Weisse. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Salzburg tonight.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Austria!
Day 8 – Salzburg - departure day
- Salzburg - Departure day
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- Mozartplatz
- Haus der Natur
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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.
As your final day in Austria unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Salzburg's best shopping area. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Austria.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Salzburg today. One of the most interesting attractions included on the itinerary is Mozartplatz. This masterful public square will help you start your sightseeing on top.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.
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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