One-Week Austria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Salzburg traveling east to Hallstatt and Vienna

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Photo of beautiful scenic view on Salzburg skyline with Festung Hohensalzburg in the summer, Austria.
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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, Sankt Gilgen, Hallstatt, Gemeinde Melk, Vienna, and Linz. 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, 2 nights in Hallstatt, and 2 nights in Vienna. 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 Belvedere Palace Chapel, 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, Sankt Gilgen, Hallstatt, Gemeinde Melk, Vienna, and Linz, 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!

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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Linzergasse
Red Bull Hangar-7Salzburg CathedralMozartplatzMirabellgartenMirabell PalaceAltstadt
PlombergsteinSalzwelten Hallstatt5 Fingers
Eispalast DachsteinVorderer GosauseeHallstätter WasserfallMarktplatz HallstattEvangelische Pfarrkirche HallstattViewpoint Hallstatt
Melk AbbeyRotes TorSt. Stephen's Cathedral
Schönbrunn PalaceBelvedere PalaceVienna State OperaNeubauMariahilfer Straße
Ars Electronica CenterLinz’s main squareDreifaltigkeitssäuleLentos Art Museum
Fortress Hohensalzburg

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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 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 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.

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 wonderful meal at IMLAUER Sky - Bar & Restaurant in Salzburg, a top-rated dining spot in Salzburg. If you're in the mood for something new, try Indian Restaurant Taj Mahal, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at WeiherWirt. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Salzburg.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at The Salzburg Whiskey Museum - Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Harry Bär provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Darwin's Cafe Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Salzburg
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Drive 14 km, 1 hour 1 min

  • Red Bull Hangar-7
  • Salzburg Cathedral
  • Mozartplatz
  • Mirabellgarten
  • Mirabell Palace
  • Altstadt
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Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Salzburg has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Salzburg by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Make sure to visit Altstadt, a popular neighborhood in Salzburg. Spend some time wandering around the area and soak in its distinctive charm. You’ll also discover that several of the city’s must-see attractions are just around the corner.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Salzburg, featuring family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and picturesque spots. Start at Hangar-7, a captivating aviation museum in the city. Then, head to Salzburg Cathedral and soak in the ambiance of this monumental church.

There are many interesting places to see in Salzburg, and when you are ready for more, go to Mozartplatz. This is one of the city’s most well-known romantic spots of interest. After exploring the public square, visit the increasingly popular Mirabell Gardens. Not far away, you'll also find Mirabell Palace. This palace is a romantic highlight in Salzburg.

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.

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.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Mentor's Bar Kultur offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Monkeys Cafe. Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Schnaitl Pub is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Salzburg
  • Hallstatt
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Drive 96 km, 2 hours 1 min

  • Plombergstein
  • Salzwelten Hallstatt
  • 5 Fingers
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Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Austria. Today you will explore Sankt Gilgen and Lahn, 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 Hallstatt. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Salzburg, including a hiking area, a cave, and an observation deck. Start your adventure at Plombergstein. This underrated hiking area is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Memory Of Mankind located in Salzburg for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of 5 Fingers. Its mesmerizing features will captivate you.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Hallstatt. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the village.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Muk´s Schmankerl, a top-rated dining destination in Hallstatt.

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

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Hallstatt
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Drive 176 km, 3 hours 40 min

  • Eispalast Dachstein
  • Vorderer Gosausee
  • Hallstätter Wasserfall
  • Marktplatz Hallstatt
  • Evangelische Pfarrkirche Hallstatt
  • Viewpoint Hallstatt
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On day 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Hallstatt, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Hallstatt is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, natural wonders, and breathtaking views! Start at Eispalast Dachstein, an underrated cave that is worthwhile a visit in the region. Nearby, you’ll find Vorderer Gosausee, enchanting visitors with its romantic appeal. Continue your exploration at Hallstätter Wasserfall. This waterfall is one of the region’s most curiosity-inducing spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Hallstatt at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Marktplatz Hallstatt. After exploring the public square, head to the intriguing Christuskirche (hallstatt). Lastly, wrap up today’s self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Panoramic Viewpoint - Hallstatt, a place of awe-inspiring interest in Hallstatt.

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

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

Relax and reminisce about your day in Austria and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Hallstatt
  • Vienna
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Drive 321 km, 4 hours 6 min

  • Melk Abbey
  • Rotes Tor
  • St. Stephen's Cathedral
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On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Austria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Gemeinde Melk, Quitten, and Vienna. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Vienna, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Hallstatt allows for both. Start by heading to Melk Abbey. This interesting monastery provides an insightful glimpse into the town's identity. Next, discover Rotes Tor, Spitz, a picture-perfect historical landmark, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to St. Stephen's Cathedral, a timeless church.

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Aurora Rooftop Bar, an iconic dining spot in Vienna. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of VERANDA, a popular restaurant in Vienna. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of die Feinkosterei Schwarz-Hirsch, a hidden gem nestled in Vienna. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Tapete Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Star Inn Hotel Wien Schönbrunn is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Kruger’s American Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Vienna
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Drive 15 km, 48 min

  • Schönbrunn Palace
  • Belvedere Palace
  • Vienna State Opera
  • Neubau
  • Mariahilfer Straße
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Day 6 of your road trip across Austria promises a magnificent time exploring Vienna. You have 1 night left in Vienna. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

A top thing to do today is to explore Neubau, a must-see neighborhood in Vienna. It's the perfect starting point for touring the top attractions in the area. You can also visit Mariahilfer Straße, an ideal street for continued sightseeing.

Discover a day packed with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views in Vienna. Begin your sightseeing with Schönbrunn Palace. This timeless palace is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Belvedere Palace Chapel, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Vienna, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Vienna State Opera. This famous opera house is a traveler-favorite.

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.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Vienna's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Boutiquehotel Stadthalle, a highly-rated dining destination in Vienna. If you're eager to try something different, consider Restaurant Ofenloch, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Flanagans. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Vienna this evening.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Miranda Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Josef Cocktailbar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Roberto American Bar Ii 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.

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Vienna
  • Salzburg
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Drive 320 km, 3 hours 59 min

  • Ars Electronica Center
  • Linz’s main square
  • Dreifaltigkeitssäule
  • Lentos Art Museum
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On day 7 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 Linz. In the evening, you’ll end up in Salzburg, where you will stay for 1 night.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Vienna. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Ars Electronica Center is the perfect place to start. This science center is one of the most underrated places to visit in Vienna. Next, head to Linz’s Main Square, a frequently visited public square, known for its picture-perfect features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Dreifaltigkeitssäule. This masterful monument is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Lentos Art Museum. Visit these for an interesting touch 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 Salzburg. Salzburg 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 Salzburg. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Savor the flavors at Austria Trend Hotel Europa Salzburg, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Restaurant Riedenburg beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Die Weisse. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Salzburg tonight.

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

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Day 8

Day 8

  • Salzburg - Departure day
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  • Fortress Hohensalzburg
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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 Fortress Hohensalzburg, a majestic castle before you head out.

Maximize your last day in Austria and go on a shopping spree in Salzburg’s shopping center. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey 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.

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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