9-Day Austria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Vienna to Salzburg, Innsbruck, and Zell Am See

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Photo of Vienna from Saint Stephane's cathedral, Austria.
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Experience the freedom of the open road in Austria as you embark on an unforgettable 9-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Vienna, Salzburg, Kaltenbach, Hallstatt, Gosau, Innsbruck, Marktgemeinde Wattens, Zell Am See, Kaprun, and Winkl.

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 Vienna, 2 nights in Salzburg, 2 nights in Innsbruck, and 1 night in Zell Am See. 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 Vienna, 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 Vienna, Salzburg, Kaltenbach, Hallstatt, Gosau, Innsbruck, Marktgemeinde Wattens, Zell Am See, Kaprun, and Winkl, 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
Vienna State Opera
Schönbrunn PalaceMaria-Theresa MemorialSt. Stephen's CathedralPraterNeubau
Mirabell PalaceMozart's BirthplaceSalzburg CathedralMozartplatz
Katrin cable car Bad IschlWelterbemuseum HallstattViewpoint HallstattCalvary GosauVorderer Gosausee
SINNE Theater & Restaurant in unsichtbaren KulissenInnsbrucker HofgartenGolden RoofCity Tower
Swarovski Crystal WorldsAmbras Castle InnsbruckBergisel Ski JumpAlpenzoo Innsbruck - Tirol

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Vienna - Arrival day
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  • Vienna State Opera
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Your road trip adventure in Austria begins as soon as you reach Vienna and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Vienna 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.

Vienna 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 Vienna State Opera, or just 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 Vienna. 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.

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Aurora Rooftop Bar, a top-rated dining destination in Vienna. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider VERANDA, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at die Feinkosterei Schwarz-Hirsch. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Vienna this evening.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Tapete Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Star Inn Hotel Wien Schönbrunn, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Kruger’s American Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Vienna
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Drive 19 km, 1 hour 14 min

  • Schönbrunn Palace
  • Maria-Theresa Memorial
  • St. Stephen's Cathedral
  • Prater
  • Neubau
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Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Vienna has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Vienna by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

A visit to Neubau in Vienna is a must on the agenda today. This neighborhood is full of hidden gems and character, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Plus, you’ll be close to some of the city’s most famous sights.

Today’s agenda in Vienna includes a palace, a monument, a church, an amusement park and much more! Schönbrunn Palace is must-visit palace and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Maria-theresa Memorial, a locally renowned monument, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to St. Stephen's Cathedral, an inviting church, also available for your discovery today.

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 Vienna, 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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Boutiquehotel Stadthalle, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Restaurant Ofenloch offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Flanagans is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Vienna.

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.

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

  • Vienna
  • Salzburg
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Drive 298 km, 3 hours 31 min

  • Mirabell Palace
  • Mozart's Birthplace
  • Salzburg Cathedral
  • Mozartplatz
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Austria. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Salzburg. 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.

Vienna is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a palace, a museum, a church, a public square and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the notable Mirabell Palace and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Mozart's Birthplace, a photogenic museum that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Salzburg Cathedral, one of the city’s most locally renowned spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the well-known Mozartplatz.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Salzburg. Salzburg offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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.

Savor the flavors at IMLAUER Sky - Bar & Restaurant in Salzburg, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Indian Restaurant Taj Mahal beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider WeiherWirt. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Salzburg tonight.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, The Salzburg Whiskey Museum - Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Harry Bär is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Darwin's Cafe Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Austria!

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Salzburg
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Drive 169 km, 3 hours 26 min

  • Katrin cable car Bad Ischl
  • Welterbemuseum Hallstatt
  • Viewpoint Hallstatt
  • Calvary Gosau
  • Vorderer Gosausee
  • More

On day 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Salzburg, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in Salzburg. Begin your sightseeing with Katrin Seilbahn Bad Ischl. This underrated tramway is one of the top attractions in the village. Proceed to Welterbemuseum Hallstatt, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Salzburg, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Panoramic Viewpoint - Hallstatt. This popular observation deck is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Calvary Gosau, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Vorderer Gosausee is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Salzburg and your accommodation.

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

Dine in style at Augustiner Bräu Mülln, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, ARCOTEL Castellani Salzburg boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Stadtalm. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Salzburg.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Mentor's Bar Kultur is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Monkeys Cafe. Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Schnaitl Pub. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Salzburg
  • Innsbruck
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Drive 190 km, 2 hours 30 min

  • SINNE Theater & Restaurant in unsichtbaren Kulissen
  • Innsbrucker Hofgarten
  • Golden Roof
  • City Tower
  • More

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Austria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Innsbruck. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Innsbruck, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Start by visiting Sinne. Theater & Restaurant In Unsichtbaren Kulissen. , a prime spot to begin your journey. This picture-perfect restaurant is sure to impress. Next on your list is Innsbrucker Hofgarten, another must-visit landmark and curiosity-inducing park renowned for its romantic features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Salzburg by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Golden Roof. This respected historical landmark is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Salzburg experience. We also recommend visiting Stadtturm, an increasingly popular observation deck.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Stiftskeller, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Thai-Li-Ba offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Breakfast Club. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Innsbruck.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Café Bar Dinzler, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Music-bar Zappa, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Cafe Katzung provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Innsbruck
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Drive 51 km, 1 hour 12 min

  • Swarovski Crystal Worlds
  • Ambras Castle Innsbruck
  • Bergisel Ski Jump
  • Alpenzoo Innsbruck - Tirol
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Wake up to day 6 of your extraordinary road trip in Austria. With 1 night left in Innsbruck, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Innsbruck allows for both. Start by heading to Swarovski Kristallwelten. This popular art installation provides an insightful glimpse into the town's identity. Next, discover Ambras Castle Innsbruck, a visually striking castle, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Bergisel Ski Jump, a locally appreciated observation deck. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the captivating Alpenzoo Innsbruck - Tirol.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Innsbruck. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Gasthof Goldener Adler, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Sixty Twenty Bar und Cafe? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Café Central as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Innsbruck.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Montagu Bed & Beers, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Dom Cafe-bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Innsbruck. Plansch Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Innsbruck
  • Zell am See
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Drive 198 km, 3 hours 20 min

  • Zell am see esplanade
  • Sigmund Thun Gorge
  • Kaprun Castle
  • Wild & Adventure Park Ferleiten
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On day 7 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 Zell Am See, Kaprun, and Ferleiten. In the evening, you’ll end up in Zell Am See, where you will stay for 1 night.

Immerse yourself in Innsbruck’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Zell Am See Esplanade. This serene boardwalk is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the eye-catching features of Sigmund-thun-klamm, a must-visit canyon 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 Kaprun Castle, a curiosity-inducing castle. For a change of scene, check out Wild & Adventure Park Ferleiten, known for its visually striking features.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Zell Am See, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Zell Am See. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Diele, a popular restaurant in Zell Am See. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Zell Am See at Slow Down, 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 Tirolerhof Zell am See. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Zell Am See tonight.

Keep the evening going at Hotel Salzburgerhof, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Off Piste Bar Aprés Ski Bar & Night Club Zell Am See, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Ginhouse | Pub | Zell Am See, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

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Day 8

Day 8

  • Zell am See
  • Vienna
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Drive 557 km, 7 hours 24 min

  • Gößnitz-Wasserfall
  • Jungfernsprung
  • Raggaschlucht
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Dive into day 8 of your remarkable road trip in Austria. Today you will explore Winkl, Aichhorn, and Schmelzhütten, 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 1 night.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Zell Am See. Some of the village’s most loved attractions await! Gößnitz-wasserfall is the perfect place to start. This waterfall is one of the most up-and-coming places to visit in Zell Am See. Next, head to Jungfernsprung, an intriguing waterfall, known for its romantic 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 Raggaschlucht. This instagrammable canyon is a highly recommended experience. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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.

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Puerstner, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Vollpension is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Zum Schwarzen Kameel. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Vienna tonight.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Loos American Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Brandauer Bierstube offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Austria!

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Day 9

Day 9

  • Vienna - Departure day
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  • Belvedere Palace
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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 Vienna 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 Belvedere Palace Chapel, a history-steeped palace before you head out.

On your last day in Austria, take time to indulge in shopping at Vienna’s popular marketplace, Kärntner Straße. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip. If you’re in the mood for luxury shopping, high-end stores await you.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Plachutta Wollzeile, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Blue Box offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Vienna. 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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