9-Day Austria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Salzburg traveling east to Bad Ischl, Graz, and Vienna
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Description
Explore the best of Austria on a 9-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Salzburg, Hallstatt, Bad Ischl, Gosau, Graz, Vienna, Gemeinde Melk, 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 Bad Ischl, 1 night in Graz, 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 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 Vienna State Opera.
As you hit the open road and drive through Salzburg, Hallstatt, Bad Ischl, Gosau, Graz, Vienna, Gemeinde Melk, 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!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1
- Salzburg - Arrival day
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- Linzergasse
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Your road trip adventure in Austria begins as soon as you reach Salzburg and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Salzburg for 2 nights and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.
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 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.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at The Salzburg Whiskey Museum - Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Harry Bär, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Darwin's Cafe Bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.
Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in Austria!
Day 2
- Salzburg
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Drive 25 km, 1 hour 24 min
- Salzburg Zoo Hellbrunn
- Fortress Hohensalzburg
- Salzburg Cathedral
- Mozartplatz
- Mirabell Palace
- Red Bull Hangar-7
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Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Salzburg for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
Immerse yourself in Salzburg’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Salzburg Zoo. This picture-perfect zoo is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the grand features of Fortress Hohensalzburg, a must-visit castle in the city.
In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Salzburg Cathedral, an interesting church. For a change of scene, check out Mozartplatz, known for its remarkable features. We also recommend visiting Mirabell Palace. This palace is a must for anyone looking to experience the city to the fullest. Lastly, end your day with a visit to Hangar-7, yet another interesting attraction 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 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.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Augustiner Bräu Mülln, a popular restaurant in Salzburg. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Salzburg at ARCOTEL Castellani Salzburg, 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 Stadtalm. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Salzburg tonight.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Mentor's Bar Kultur after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Monkeys Cafe. Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Schnaitl Pub is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Austria!
Day 3
- Salzburg
- Bad Ischl
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Drive 105 km, 2 hours 23 min
- Hallstätter Wasserfall
- Viewpoint Hallstatt
- Evangelische Pfarrkirche Hallstatt
- Marktplatz Hallstatt
- Salzwelten Hallstatt
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Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Austria. Today you will explore Hallstatt 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 Bad Ischl. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.
Today’s agenda in Salzburg includes a waterfall, an observation deck, a church, a public square, a cave and much more! Hallstätter Wasserfall is must-visit waterfall and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Panoramic Viewpoint - Hallstatt, a well-known observation deck, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Christuskirche (hallstatt), an UNESCO world heritage-listed church, also available for your discovery today.
Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Salzburg. When you're ready, let your sightseeing route take you to the up-and-coming Marktplatz Hallstatt. If you’re looking for more, Memory Of Mankind is also an often recommended attraction that is worthwhile a visit.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Bad Ischl. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.
As you explore more of Bad Ischl, 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.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Taverna Corfu Bad Ischl, a top-rated dining spot in Bad Ischl. If you're in the mood for something new, try Cafe-Restaurant Zauner, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Gasthaus Zur Bürgerstubn. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Bad Ischl.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Café Bar Lafayette, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Stehbeisl offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Bad Ischl.
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.
Day 4
- Bad Ischl
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Drive 250 km, 4 hours 32 min
- Eispalast Dachstein
- 5 Fingers
- Calvary Gosau
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On day 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Bad Ischl, where you'll stay for 1 night more.
Immerse yourself in Bad Ischl’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Eispalast Dachstein. This noteworthy cave is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the peaceful features of 5 Fingers, a must-visit observation deck in the region.
In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Calvary Gosau, a locally appreciated church.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Bad Ischl and your accommodation.
As you explore more of Bad Ischl, 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.
Savor the flavors at Börni Börger, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Landhotel Hubertushof beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Salzmühle Bier- u Weinstube. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Bad Ischl tonight.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Austria and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 5
- Bad Ischl
- Graz
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Drive 196 km, 3 hours
- Eggenberg Palace, Graz
- Schlossberg
- Kunsthaus Graz
- Old Town of Graz
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Austria. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Graz. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Graz, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. The first attraction of today is Schloss Eggenberg. This often recommended palace is a visually striking place to see in Bad Ischl. Continue your discovery at Schlossberg, a romantic castle with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Bad Ischl, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Kunsthaus Graz. This underrated art gallery offers a picture-perfect encounter with Bad Ischl. Next, make your way to Old Town Of Graz to add another highlight to your day. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Bad Ischl.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Graz. Graz offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Graz's best restaurants.
Make sure to reserve a table at Cafe Mitte, an iconic dining spot in Graz. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Molly Malone Irish Pub, a popular restaurant in Graz. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Zur Steirerstub'n, a hidden gem nestled in Graz. 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, The Churchill offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Cohibar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Hops Craft Beer Pub Graz is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Austria!
Day 6
- Graz
- Vienna
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Drive 204 km, 2 hours 47 min
- Schönbrunn Palace
- Belvedere Palace
- St. Stephen's Cathedral
- Anker Clock
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On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Austria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Vienna. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Vienna, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.
Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views in Graz. Begin your sightseeing with Schönbrunn Palace. This world-famous 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 Graz, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to St. Stephen's Cathedral. This wondrous church is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Ankeruhr, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.
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 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.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Aurora Rooftop Bar, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? VERANDA offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss die Feinkosterei Schwarz-Hirsch. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Vienna.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Tapete Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Star Inn Hotel Wien Schönbrunn offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Kruger’s American Bar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Austria!
Day 7
- Vienna
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Drive 9 km, 55 min
- Hofburg Palace
- Albertina
- Vienna State Opera
- Prater
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Day 7 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.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Vienna, featuring family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and picturesque spots. Start at Hofburg Palace, a notable palace in the city. Then, head to Albertina and soak in the ambiance of this photogenic museum.
There are many interesting places to see in Vienna, and when you are ready for more, go to Vienna State Opera. This is one of the city’s most astonishing history-steeped spots of interest. After exploring the opera house, visit the world-famous Prater.
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 Vienna. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Boutiquehotel Stadthalle, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Restaurant Ofenloch is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Flanagans. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Vienna tonight.
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.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Austria!
Day 8
- Vienna
- Salzburg
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Drive 325 km, 4 hours 6 min
- Melk Abbey
- Ars Electronica Center
- Lentos Art Museum
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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 2 vibrant destinations - Gemeinde Melk and Linz. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Salzburg. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Vienna allows for both. Start by heading to Melk Abbey. This well-known monastery provides an insightful glimpse into the town's identity. Next, discover Ars Electronica Center, a picture-perfect science center, promising a delightful encounter.
Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Lentos Art Museum, a beloved art gallery.
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.
Make sure to reserve a table at Austria Trend Hotel Europa Salzburg, an iconic dining spot in Salzburg. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Restaurant Riedenburg, a popular restaurant in Salzburg. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Die Weisse, a hidden gem nestled in Salzburg. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Austria.
Day 9
- Salzburg - Departure day
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- Mozart's Birthplace
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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 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 Mozart's Birthplace, a respected museum before you head out.
Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.
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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