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

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Photo of Holy Trinity column on the Main Square, Linz, Austria.
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Escape the ordinary with this exciting 9-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 2 nights in Linz, 2 nights in Salzburg, 1 night in St. Pölten, and 3 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 Linz, 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 Prater are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable St. Stephen's Cathedral, learn more about the unique Belvedere Palace Chapel, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Schönbrunn Palace.

As you hit the open road and drive through Linz, Salzburg, St. Pölten, Gemeinde Melk, Laxenburg, and Vienna, 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
Luftschutzstollen "Limonikeller
Ars Electronica CenterSchlossmuseum des Oberösterreichischen LandesmuseumsLinzer MariendomCarmelite Convent Linz
Mirabell PalaceMirabellgartenHaus der NaturMozart's BirthplaceHellbrunn Palace
MozartplatzSalzburg CathedralFortress HohensalzburgRed Bull Hangar-7
Museum NiederösterreichMelk AbbeyLaxenburg Castle Park
Belvedere PalaceSchönbrunn PalaceSchönbrunn Palace ParkSchönbrunn Zoo

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Linz - Arrival day
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  • Luftschutzstollen "Limonikeller
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Welcome to Linz, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Austria! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Linz's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Linz 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 Luftschutzstollen "limonikeller", or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Linz. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.

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 Linz, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at PAULS steak & veggi Linz, a popular restaurant in Linz. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Linz at nuba - bar with kitchen, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Coconut Thai Restaurant. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Linz tonight.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Divino stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Café Bar Walker offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Solaris is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in Austria!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Linz
  • Salzburg
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Drive 136 km, 2 hours 19 min

  • Ars Electronica Center
  • Schlossmuseum des Oberösterreichischen Landesmuseums
  • Linzer Mariendom
  • Carmelite Convent Linz
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 of your road trip in Austria. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Linz. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Salzburg. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots in the charming city of Linz. Your adventure starts at Ars Electronica Center, an increasingly popular local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Schlossmuseum Linz. This increasingly popular museum is known for its gorgeous appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Linz's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to New Cathedral, Linz. This historic church offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Carmelite Convent Linz is also worth visiting.

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 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 harmony of flavors at The Glass Garden in Salzburg by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 1-star Michelin status, The Glass Garden offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious modern menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Ikarus, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing creative and modern cuisine. This popular 2-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at SENNS. Restaurant, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional creative menu.

Cap off your dinner by heading to The Salzburg Whiskey Museum - Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Harry Bär is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Darwin's Cafe Bar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Salzburg
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Drive 13 km, 55 min

  • Mirabell Palace
  • Mirabellgarten
  • Haus der Natur
  • Mozart's Birthplace
  • Hellbrunn Palace
  • More

On day 3 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Salzburg. You’ll stay in Salzburg for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Salzburg is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a palace, a park, and a museum. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the captivating Mirabell Palace and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Mirabell Gardens, a detailed park that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Haus Der Natur Salzburg, one of the city’s most captivating spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the popular Mozart's Birthplace. When you're finished at the museum, Hellbrunn Palace awaits your visit. This palace is an enchanting highlight on today's itinerary.

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 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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Augustiner Bräu Mülln, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, ARCOTEL Castellani Salzburg is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Stadtalm. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Salzburg tonight.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Mentor's Bar Kultur after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Monkeys Cafe. Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Schnaitl Pub also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Salzburg
  • Lower Austria
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Drive 249 km, 3 hours 1 min

  • Mozartplatz
  • Salzburg Cathedral
  • Fortress Hohensalzburg
  • Red Bull Hangar-7
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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.

Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Mozartplatz. This interesting public square is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Salzburg Cathedral, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Fortress Hohensalzburg, one of the most interesting places to see in Salzburg. This castle is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Hangar-7. Wander around and soak in the instagrammable atmosphere this aviation museum offers.

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.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Happy Family, a popular restaurant in St. Pölten. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of St. Pölten at KHIM | Asia Cuisine Restaurant, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Hotel Restaurant Roter Hahn. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in St. Pölten tonight.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Narrnkastl is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Barrock, offering a different kind of charm.

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

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Lower Austria
  • Vienna
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Drive 152 km, 2 hours 15 min

  • Museum Niederösterreich
  • Melk Abbey
  • Laxenburg Castle Park
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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.

Get ready for an exciting day in St. Pölten. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a museum, a monastery, and a park. Begin your adventure at Museum Niederösterreich. This is an up-and-coming museum you should not miss. Another must-see is Melk Abbey, a popular monastery in St. Pölten.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Laxenburg Castle 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.

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.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Vienna by booking a table at Amador. This popular restaurant holds 3 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of creative and contemporary cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Mraz & Sohn, celebrated for its delectable creative menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Steirereck im Stadtpark, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing creative and contemporary menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

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.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Austria.

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Vienna
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Drive 19 km, 1 hour 12 min

  • Belvedere Palace
  • Schönbrunn Palace
  • Schönbrunn Palace Park
  • Schönbrunn Zoo
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Day 6 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.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Vienna allows for both. Start by heading to Belvedere Palace Chapel. This spectacular palace provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Schönbrunn Palace, a history-steeped palace, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Schönbrunn Palace, an impressive park. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the astonishing 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.

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 Boutiquehotel Stadthalle, a top-rated dining destination in Vienna. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restaurant Ofenloch, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Flanagans. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Vienna this evening.

Keep the evening going at Miranda Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Josef Cocktailbar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Roberto American Bar Ii, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Austria!

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Vienna
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Drive 8 km, 39 min

  • Prater
  • Viennese Giant Ferris Wheel
  • Citypark
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Day 7 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Vienna for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Vienna, featuring family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and picturesque spots. Start at Prater, a globally renowned amusement park in the city. Then, head to Viennese Giant Ferris Wheel and soak in the ambiance of this history-steeped 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 popular serene spots of interest.

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Puerstner, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Vollpension? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Zum Schwarzen Kameel as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Vienna.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Loos American Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Brandauer Bierstube offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Austria!

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Day 8

Day 8

  • Vienna
  • Linz
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Drive 185 km, 2 hours 34 min

  • St. Stephen's Cathedral
  • Vienna State Opera
  • Hofburg Palace
  • Maria-Theresa Memorial
  • MuseumsQuartier
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 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 Linz, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

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 spectacular opera house, known for its standout 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 historic 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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at VAPIANO Linz, a top-rated dining spot in Linz. If you're in the mood for something new, try Fu Cheng, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Wia z'haus Lehner. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Linz.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Exxtrablatt. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes.

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

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Day 9

Day 9

  • Linz - Departure day
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  • Linz’s main square
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Day 9 of your road trip in Austria is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Linz 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 Linz’s Main Square, a breathtaking public square before you head out.

As your final day in Austria unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Linz's best shopping area, Arkade Linz. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Austria. Browse through boutiques to find unique and stylish fashion pieces to take home.

Before you conclude your road trip in Austria, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Linz.

If you're in the mood to try something new, consider STEAKHOUSE, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Linz. 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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