Relaxed 9-Day Austria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Graz to Vienna
Description
Included
Description
Uncover the beauty of Austria on this 9-day relaxed road trip, journeying through Graz, Hirschwang a der Rax, Pernitz, Gemeinde Baden, Laxenburg, Vienna, Gemeinde Melk, and Gemeinde Schollach. Unwind at your leisure on this self-drive vacation, discovering hidden gems and immersing yourself in the serene exploration.
This self-drive package allows you to travel through picture-perfect landscapes in Austria at a relaxed pace. Get a dose of comfort, fun, and recreation in Graz, Hirschwang a der Rax, Pernitz, Gemeinde Baden, Laxenburg, Vienna, Gemeinde Melk, and Gemeinde Schollach. Make yourself at home at top-rated hotels and stay 3 nights in Graz and 5 nights in Vienna. Finally, taste the local food and enjoy a refreshing drink at the most popular restaurants and bars along your road trip route in Austria.
Freedom of choice is key to a relaxing road trip in Austria. For your self-drive vacation, we’ll offer you a selection of the best rental vehicles with CDW insurance. Upon arrival in Graz, you’ll collect your rental car of choice. From there, you’ll begin your 9-day journey across Austria and discover its unique culture, history, and diverse scenery.
Experience the essence of leisurely self-drive exploration across Austria with our handpicked selection of accommodations. From relaxed stays at renowned 5-star hotels offering magnificent views to comfortable 3-star options that cater to budget-conscious travelers, we ensure your journey is optimized for relaxation and comfort. Discover the perfect place to stay and unwind as you embark on a laid-back adventure in Austria.
We’ll introduce you to some of the best travel destinations in Austria. This relaxed road trip features the stunning Schönbrunn Palace. Another highlight of this self-drive tour is the captivating Prater.
Traveling leisurely through Austria means you could spend as much time as you want at the magnificent St. Stephen's Cathedral. You’ll have plenty of time to take in each attraction's unique features, learn its unique history, and appreciate it to the fullest.
Enjoy strolling through Austria's shopping hotspots near your accommodation. Visit shops, discover the locals’ way of life, or try various specialties. Don't forget to bring home a piece of the country that will remind you of your relaxing vacation in Austria.
Between sightseeing, you can make the most of your downtime and join a popular tour in Austria. This relaxed road trip also gives you plenty of time to stroll through Austria's shopping hotspots. Through these experiences, you'll have plenty of opportunities to discover the locals’ way of life and soak in the rich cultural heritage of the Austria.
This self-drive vacation package includes everything you need for a stress-free, easy road trip through Austria. You’ll have a cozy place to stay for 8 nights, with a selection of top-rated breakfast and restaurant options nearby. We'll also provide you with the best rental car you can use throughout the 9 days of your self-drive road trip in Austria. On top of all that, you also have the option to add flights to your travel plan and personalize each day of your itinerary by adding tours and tickets.
This self-drive package includes 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide. You can access the guide at any point of your journey through our mobile app, where you can also keep and organize your travel documents.
Spend an amazing 9-day vacation in Austria and get to know more about this fantastic destination. Choose your travel dates and plan a laid-back and relaxed road trip in Austria today!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1 – Graz - arrival day
- Graz - Arrival day
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- Main square of Graz
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Your relaxed road trip through Austria starts when you reach the incredible city of Graz, where you'll stay for 2 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Graz and begin your adventure in Austria.
Graz 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 Hauptplatz, Graz 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 Graz. 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.
When you're hungry and ready to take a break from your laid-back adventure, treat yourself to a delicious meal at one of the best restaurants in Graz.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Cafe Mitte, a highly-rated dining destination in Graz. If you're eager to try something different, consider Molly Malone Irish Pub, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Zur Steirerstub'n. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Graz this evening.
After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Graz and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting The Churchill after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Cohibar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Hops Craft Beer Pub Graz also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Raise a toast as you look back into the highlights of today’s laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in Austria. Enjoy your first taste of Graz as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.
Day 2 – Graz
- Graz
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Drive 13 km, 59 min
- Schlossberg
- Uhrturm
- Schlossbergbahn
- Kunsthaus Graz
- Eggenberg Palace, Graz
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Day 2 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Graz, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Austria are extraordinary.
Today's adventure in Graz promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Schlossberg. This history-steeped castle is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Clock Tower In Graz, another romantic attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Schlossbergbahn, one of the city’s most locally appreciated attractions, known for its breathtaking features.
If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Kunsthaus Graz. This instagrammable art gallery is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Schloss Eggenberg, a locally appreciated palace, and take a stroll around the area.
Austria makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, Austria also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.
Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Graz has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.
Enjoy a delicious meal at The Thirsty Heart, a top-rated dining destination in Graz. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Flann O'Brien Original Irish Pub, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Grand Hôtel Wiesler. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Graz this evening.
As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Graz’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Austria.
Unwind after your meal by stepping into Dizzys Club-cafe. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Up25 offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Viertel 4 | Popup Bar & Sommerlounge Im Joanneumsviertel, another top-rated bar in the area.
Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in Austria!
Day 3 – Graz, Hirschwang an der Rax, Pernitz, Gemeinde Baden, Laxenburg, and Vienna
- Graz
- Hirschwang an der Rax
- Pernitz
- Gemeinde Baden
- Vienna
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Drive 255 km, 4 hours
- Myra Waterfalls
- Kurpark Baden Stadtpark
- Schlossberg
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Day 3 of your relaxed road trip across Austria promises an exciting agenda full of discovery. You’ll start your day in the village of Hirschwang a der Rax and drive in the direction of the town of Pernitz for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in the city of Vienna, where you’ll stay for 5 nights.
Hirschwang a der Rax’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Graz behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 37 min. Hirschwang a der Rax welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Begin your journey at Rax Cableway and explore the instagrammable features.
Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Hirschwang a der Rax and set your GPS to Pernitz. 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 43 min. Upon reaching Pernitz, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.
Myra Waterfalls is a worthwhile waterfall we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its majestic features before continuing your self-guided tour.
When you’ve had your share of Pernitz, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Gemeinde Baden. Your travel time is around 43 min.
Begin your journey at Kurpark Baden Stadtpark and explore the romantic features.
In the city of Vienna, you’ll find plenty of stay options that will accommodate your need for rest and relaxation after spending your day on the road. Our top recommendations perfectly complement your relaxed road trip vacation in Austria.
After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.
Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Vienna by reserving a table at Amador. Renowned as a 3-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional creative and contemporary menu. For a different taste experience, head to Mraz & Sohn, recognized for its delicious creative dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Steirereck im Stadtpark, a local favorite known for its delightful creative and contemporary cuisine in Vienna. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 2 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning creative and contemporary foodies seeking culinary excellence.
If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in Austria.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Tapete Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Star Inn Hotel Wien Schönbrunn is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Kruger’s American Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, relaxed road trip adventure across Austria.
Day 4 – Vienna, Knillhof, Gemeinde Melk, and Gemeinde Schollach
- Vienna
- Melk
- Anzendorf
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Drive 318 km, 4 hours
- Tierpark Stadt Haag
- Melk Abbey
- Schallaburg
- St. Stephen's Cathedral
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On day 4 of your relaxed road trip across Austria, you’ll explore the area around Vienna, where you’ll be staying for another 4 nights. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Vienna will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of Austria.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Vienna today. One of the most wondrous attractions included on the itinerary is St. Stephen's Cathedral. This history-steeped church will help you start your sightseeing on top.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Knillhof, 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 Vienna to Knillhof may take around 1 hour 49 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Knillhof, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
Tierpark Stadt Haag is an increasingly popular zoo we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its eye-catching features before continuing your self-guided tour.
After soaking in Knillhof’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Gemeinde Melk. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 48 min. When you arrive in Gemeinde Melk, it's time to take a break from the road.
One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Melk Abbey. Spend some time admiring the romantic features of the monastery before you continue to your next stop.
After soaking in Gemeinde Melk’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Gemeinde Schollach. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 11 min. When you arrive in Gemeinde Schollach, it's time to take a break from the road.
One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Schallaburg. Spend some time admiring the history-steeped features of the castle before you continue to your next stop.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Vienna and your accommodation.
Exploring the food culture in Vienna offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.
Savor the flavors at Boutiquehotel Stadthalle, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Restaurant Ofenloch beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Flanagans. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Vienna tonight.
Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Vienna.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Miranda Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Josef Cocktailbar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Vienna. Roberto American Bar Ii is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
Soak in the unique atmosphere of Vienna as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip through Austria with a toast. Cheers to a memorable leisurely self-drive holiday in Austria!
Day 5 – Vienna
- Vienna
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Drive 5 km, 43 min
- Vienna State Opera
- Kunsthistorisches Museum
- Museum of Natural History Vienna
- MuseumsQuartier
- St. Stephen's Cathedral
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Day 5 of your relaxed road trip through Austria means 24 hours of making the best memories in Vienna. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Vienna. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Vienna!
Vienna is home to plenty of attractions that offer a charming, a visually striking, a historic, a mesmerizing, a majestic, and a masterful! Start at Vienna State Opera, an extraordinary opera house that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Kunsthistorisches Museum Wien: Neue Burg, enchanting visitors with its heritage-rich appeal. Continue your exploration at Maria-theresa Memorial. This monument is one of the city’s most captivating spots.
Enjoy the freedom of exploring Vienna at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Museum Of Natural History Vienna. After exploring the museum, head to the notable Museumsquartier. This museum will wrap up today’s self-guided sightseeing tour in the city.
Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Austria by joining a traveler-approved tour in Vienna. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Vienna that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in Austria more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Vienna to find the best options for you!
Exploring the food culture in Vienna offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Puerstner, a top-rated dining spot in Vienna. If you're in the mood for something new, try Vollpension, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Zum Schwarzen Kameel. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Vienna.
After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.
Continue your lively evening at Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Loos American Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Brandauer Bierstube ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in Austria!
Day 6 – Vienna
- Vienna
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Drive 19 km, 1 hour 12 min
- Belvedere Palace
- Schönbrunn Palace
- Schönbrunn Palace Park
- Schönbrunn Zoo
- St. Stephen's Cathedral
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On day 6 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Austria, you’ll go deep into Vienna, where you'll stay for 2 nights, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Vienna, and meet locals along the way!
Discover a day packed with a charming, a stunning, an instagrammable, a historic, a grand, and an UNESCO world heritage-listed in Vienna. Begin your sightseeing with Belvedere Palace Chapel. This widely recognized palace is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Schönbrunn Palace, another must-visit attraction that enhances the city’s allure.
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 Schönbrunn Palace. This widely recognized park is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Tiergarten Schönbrunn, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.
Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about Austria. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in Austria and ensure the experience of a lifetime.
When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Austria, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Vienna.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Plachutta Wollzeile, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Blue Box? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Lebenbauer as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Vienna.
If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Vienna and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at 1010 Bar Cafe Vienna, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Wunder-bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Roo Bar Australian Pub provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.
Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in Austria. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in Austria tomorrow with new energy.
Day 7 – Vienna
- Vienna
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Drive 4 km, 53 min
- Citypark
- St. Stephen's Cathedral
- Hofburg Palace
- Heldenplatz
- Volksgarten
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Day 7 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Vienna, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Austria are extraordinary.
Today’s agenda in Vienna includes a park, a palace, and a public square. Stadtpark is must-visit park and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Hofburg Palace, a locally renowned palace, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Heldenplatz, a historic public square, also available for your discovery today.
Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Vienna. If you’re looking for more, Volksgarten is also a popular attraction that is worthwhile a visit.
Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Austria more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Vienna offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.
Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Austria. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Vienna, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.
Savor the flavors at Kotor Vienna City bar, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Lugeck beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Figlmüller – Restaurant Bäckerstraße. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Vienna tonight.
After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Vienna and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Kleinod, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Heuriger & Vinothek Joseph Ii. In Schönbrunn provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Blue Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Austria!
Day 8 – Vienna and Graz
- Vienna
- Graz
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Drive 202 km, 2 hours 45 min
- Prater
- Viennese Giant Ferris Wheel
- Hundertwasserhaus
- St. Stephen's Cathedral
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Day 8 of your leisurely self-drive tour in Austria is another opportunity for an in-depth travel experience in the country. You’ll stay in Graz for 1 night.
Get ready for an exciting day in Vienna. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes an amusement park, an observation deck, and an art installation. Begin your adventure at Prater. This is a timeless amusement park you should not miss. Another must-see is Viennese Giant Ferris Wheel, a well-known observation deck in Vienna.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Hundertwasserhaus.
Continue your laid-back road trip exploration of the best attractions in Austria at Graz. Select from top hotels and accommodations in the city to recharge and rejuvenate.
When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Graz, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.
Savor the flavors at Landhauskeller - Mittagessen | Abendessen | Cocktailbar | Hofsaison | Katze Katze - Graz, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Restaurant Pronto beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Tick-Tack. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Graz tonight.
As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Graz’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Austria.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Coco Cocktail Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Noël, a bar catering to every mood and preference.
Soak in the unique atmosphere of Graz as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip through Austria with a toast. Cheers to a memorable leisurely self-drive holiday in Austria!
Day 9 – Graz - departure day
- Graz - Departure day
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- Graz Opera
- Schlossberg
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Day 9 of your relaxed road trip in Austria is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Graz.
Maximize your last day in Austria and go on a shopping spree in Graz’s shopping center. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Austria.
If you'd rather pass the time visiting some attractions, this is your chance to go to places you may not have had the chance to explore yet.
One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Graz is the remarkable Graz Opera. This opera house and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,140 visitors.
Unwind and look back at the past 9 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Graz or just grab something light to keep you going.
Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Graz and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 9-day relaxed road trip in Austria is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.
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