9-Day Austria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Linz to Salzburg, St. Pölten, and Vienna and surrounding area

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in Austria. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Linz. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Salzburg, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. Whether you decide to explore Linz on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Ars Electronica Center is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this picture-perfect science center before continuing your journey. Schlossmuseum Linz is your next stop. This underrated museum is one of the best-rated sights in Linz.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit New Cathedral, Linz. This historic church is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Carmelite Convent Linz.

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

As you explore more of Salzburg, 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.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Salzburg by booking a table at The Glass Garden. This popular restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Ikarus, celebrated for its delectable creative and modern menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover SENNS. Restaurant, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing creative menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

Keep the evening going at The Salzburg Whiskey Museum - Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Harry Bär, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Darwin's Cafe Bar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Head back to your accommodation in Salzburg and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Austria!

Day 3 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.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Start at the notable Mirabell Palace, a history-steeped palace in Salzburg. Next, go to Mirabell Gardens.

After visiting Mirabell Palace and Mirabell Gardens, have a stroll along Salzburg's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Haus Der Natur Salzburg. This picture-perfect museum offers a unique experience. Mozart's Birthplace is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Hellbrunn Palace, one of the most standout places to visit 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.

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

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.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Mentor's Bar Kultur, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Monkeys Cafe. Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Schnaitl Pub provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Austria.

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Austria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Salzburg. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in St. Pölten, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Today's adventure in Salzburg promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Mozartplatz. This romantic public square is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Salzburg Cathedral, another stunning attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Fortress Hohensalzburg, one of the city’s most well-known attractions, known for its romantic features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Hangar-7. This picture-perfect aviation museum is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.

At the end of the day, you will drive to St. Pölten, 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 St. Pölten's best restaurants.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Happy Family, a top-rated dining spot in St. Pölten. If you're in the mood for something new, try KHIM | Asia Cuisine Restaurant, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Hotel Restaurant Roter Hahn. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in St. Pölten.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Narrnkastl, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Barrock offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Austria.

On day 5 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 St. Pölten, Gemeinde Melk, and Laxenburg. In the evening, you’ll end up in Vienna, where you will stay for 3 nights.

Immerse yourself in St. Pölten’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Museum Niederösterreich. This photogenic museum is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the enchanting features of Melk Abbey, a must-visit monastery in the town.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Laxenburg Castle Park, an interesting park.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Vienna. Vienna 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 Vienna. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Amador, a 3-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional creative and contemporary menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, Mraz & Sohn, known for its delicious creative cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Vienna is Steirereck im Stadtpark, a renowned restaurant with a 2-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious creative and contemporary menu.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Tapete Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Star Inn Hotel Wien Schönbrunn offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Kruger’s American Bar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Austria!

On day 6 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Vienna. You’ll stay in Vienna for 2 nights 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 palace, a park, and a zoo. Start your day with a visit to Belvedere Palace Chapel. This astonishing palace is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Schönbrunn Palace, which may be one of the most enchanting 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 Schönbrunn Palace, a famous park in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Tiergarten Schönbrunn.

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 Vienna. 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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Boutiquehotel Stadthalle, 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 Restaurant Ofenloch, 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 Flanagans, a hidden gem nestled in Vienna. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Miranda Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Josef Cocktailbar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Roberto American Bar Ii also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 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 Linz. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Vienna. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! St. Stephen's Cathedral is the perfect place to start. This church is one of the most wondrous places to visit in Vienna. Next, head to Vienna State Opera, a top-rated opera house, 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 Hofburg Palace. This gorgeous palace is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Maria-theresa Memorial and Museumsquartier. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Linz. 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.

Make sure to reserve a table at VAPIANO Linz, an iconic dining spot in Linz. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Fu Cheng, a popular restaurant in Linz. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Wia z'haus Lehner, a hidden gem nestled in Linz. 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 Exxtrablatt. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes.

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