9-Day Austria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Salzburg traveling east to Bad Ischl, Graz, and Vienna

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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 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!

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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Linzergasse
Salzburg Zoo HellbrunnFortress HohensalzburgSalzburg CathedralMozartplatzMirabell PalaceRed Bull Hangar-7
Hallstätter WasserfallViewpoint HallstattEvangelische Pfarrkirche HallstattMarktplatz HallstattSalzwelten Hallstatt
Eispalast Dachstein5 FingersCalvary Gosau
Eggenberg Palace, GrazSchlossbergKunsthaus GrazOld Town of Graz
Schönbrunn PalaceBelvedere PalaceSt. Stephen's CathedralAnker Clock

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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.

Dine in style at IMLAUER Sky - Bar & Restaurant in Salzburg, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Indian Restaurant Taj Mahal boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out WeiherWirt. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Salzburg.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to The Salzburg Whiskey Museum - Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Harry Bär is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Darwin's Cafe Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

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Day 2

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.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Salzburg, including a zoo, a castle, a church, a public square, a palace, an aviation museum and much more! Start your day at Salzburg Zoo. This visually striking zoo is a locally renowned place to see in Salzburg. Then, wander over to Fortress Hohensalzburg. If visually striking sites excite you, this castle will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Salzburg Cathedral. This symbolic church is a favorite among visitors.

Salzburg offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Mozartplatz is a notable spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the public square, don’t forget to check out the enchanting Mirabell Palace. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this popular palace. Wrap up your self-guided tour of Salzburg's top attractions with a visit to Hangar-7.

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Augustiner Bräu Mülln, a top-rated dining destination in Salzburg. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider ARCOTEL Castellani Salzburg, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Stadtalm. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Salzburg this evening.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Mentor's Bar Kultur. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Monkeys Cafe. Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Schnaitl Pub, another top-rated bar in the area.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Austria.

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Day 3

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
  • More

On day 3 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 Hallstatt and Lahn. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bad Ischl, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Salzburg is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a waterfall, an observation deck, a church, a public square, a cave and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the intriguing Hallstätter Wasserfall and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Panoramic Viewpoint - Hallstatt, a romantic observation deck that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Christuskirche (hallstatt), one of the village’s most underrated spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the curiosity-inducing Marktplatz Hallstatt. When you're finished at the public square, Memory Of Mankind awaits your visit. This cave is a visually striking highlight on today's itinerary.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Taverna Corfu Bad Ischl, a top-rated dining destination in Bad Ischl. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Cafe-Restaurant Zauner, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Gasthaus Zur Bürgerstubn. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bad Ischl this evening.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Café Bar Lafayette stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Stehbeisl offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night.

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

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Day 4

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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Greet day 4 of your road trip in Austria with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Bad Ischl for your remaining 1 night in the town later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Liezen and Gosau.

Today’s agenda in Bad Ischl includes a cave, an observation deck, and a church. Eispalast Dachstein is must-visit cave and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to 5 Fingers, an often recommended observation deck, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Calvary Gosau, a symbolic church, also available for your discovery today.

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

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 Börni Börger, a top-rated dining spot in Bad Ischl. If you're in the mood for something new, try Landhotel Hubertushof, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Salzmühle Bier- u Weinstube. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening 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.

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Day 5

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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On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Austria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Graz. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Graz, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Whether you decide to explore Bad Ischl on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Schloss Eggenberg is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this UNESCO world heritage-listed palace before continuing your journey. Schlossberg is your next stop. This popular castle is one of the best-rated sights in Bad Ischl.

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 Kunsthaus Graz. This visually striking art gallery is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Old Town Of Graz.

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 long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Graz. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

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.

Continue your lively evening at The Churchill, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Cohibar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Hops Craft Beer Pub Graz ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Austria!

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Day 6

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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Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Austria. Today you will explore Vienna, 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 Vienna. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Graz, including a palace, a church, and a monument. Start your day with a visit to Schönbrunn Palace. This timeless palace is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Belvedere Palace Chapel, which may be one of the most history-steeped places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Graz 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 St. Stephen's Cathedral, a world-famous church in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Ankeruhr.

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.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Aurora Rooftop Bar, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, VERANDA offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, die Feinkosterei Schwarz-Hirsch is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Vienna.

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.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Austria!

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Day 7

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 popular palace in the city. Then, head to Albertina and soak in the ambiance of this instagrammable 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 top-rated romantic 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.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Vienna's best restaurants.

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.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Miranda Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Josef Cocktailbar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Roberto American Bar Ii provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

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Day 8

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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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your road trip in Austria. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Gemeinde Melk and 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 1 night.

Immerse yourself in Vienna’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Melk Abbey. This visually striking monastery is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the picture-perfect features of Ars Electronica Center, a must-visit science center 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 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 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.

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.

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

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Day 9

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 photogenic 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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at St. Peter Stiftskulinarium, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Afro Cafe offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Bärenwirt.

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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