Relaxed 9-Day Austria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Vienna to Salzburg

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Photo of Vienna Giant Wheel 65m tall Ferris wheel in Prater park in Austria.
Photo of Vienna from Saint Stephane's cathedral, Austria.
Relaxed 9-Day Austria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Vienna to Salzburg
Relaxed 9-Day Austria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Vienna to Salzburg
Relaxed 9-Day Austria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Vienna to Salzburg
Relaxed 9-Day Austria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Vienna to Salzburg
Relaxed 9-Day Austria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Vienna to Salzburg
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Discover stunning scenery and hidden gems on this 9-day relaxed road trip in Austria! Vienna, St. Pölten, Gemeinde Schollach, Gemeinde Melk, Salzburg, Wels, and Krenglbach await with vibrant culture and lasting memories as you unwind on this self-drive vacation.

Travel freely with this relaxed self-drive package in Austria, designed for comfort and exploration. Spend 5 nights in Vienna and 3 nights in Salzburg, staying at top-rated hotels near the heart of each city. Between drives, indulge in local cuisine, sip refreshing drinks, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere at popular restaurants and bars along your road trip route in Austria.

Your journey starts in Vienna, where your rental car with CDW insurance will be ready for pickup. Choose a vehicle that suits your style, then set off on your 9-day relaxed road trip in Austria to explore its rich culture, fascinating history, and stunning landscapes.

Every stop on this leisurely self-drive holiday comes with handpicked accommodations that make relaxation effortless. Choose from elegant 5-star hotels with breathtaking views or comfortable 3-star stays that offer excellent value, all providing a welcoming retreat after a day on the road.

With your self-drive itinerary in Austria already planned, you’ll enjoy the country’s most celebrated sights without the rush. Marvel at the stunning Schönbrunn Palace and soak in the atmosphere of the magnificent St. Stephen's Cathedral.

Enjoy each stop as you explore the history, architecture, and character of each destination on this Austria road trip itinerary for 9 days.

As you travel between destinations, you’ll have plenty of time to explore local markets and boutique shops. These stops give you the chance to find unique souvenirs, taste regional specialties, and experience everyday life in Austria.

If you want to make your 9-day relaxed self-drive tour in Austria even more memorable, add optional tours or activities. Join a guided excursion, discover hidden neighborhoods, or spend an afternoon in your favorite market. Each choice deepens your connection to the places you visit.

Alongside these experiences, your laid-back self-drive package in Austria includes 8 nights in comfortable hotels, a rental car for 9 days, and convenient access to nearby dining options. You can also add flights and entry tickets to shape the trip exactly how you want it. With 24/7 travel support and a mobile app keeping your itinerary and documents organized, you can enjoy a relaxed drive and savor every mile of the road ahead.

Turn your travel plans into reality. Book your 9-day relaxed self-drive road trip in Austria today and enjoy a journey filled with discovery, freedom, and unforgettable moments!

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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Pick-up: 10:00
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Day1

Day 1

  • Vienna - Arrival day
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  • Viennese Giant Ferris Wheel
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Your relaxed road trip through Austria starts when you reach the incredible city of Vienna, where you'll stay for 4 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Vienna and begin your adventure in Austria.

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 Viennese Giant Ferris Wheel. Taking a stroll in the city center is a great alternative. 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 central location for easy access to key areas 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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Aurora Rooftop Bar, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, VERANDA is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at die Feinkosterei Schwarz-Hirsch. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Vienna tonight.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Vienna.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Tapete Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Star Inn Hotel Wien Schönbrunn, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Kruger’s American Bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Raise a toast as you look back on the highlights of today’s relaxed road trip in Austria. Enjoy your first taste of Vienna as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.

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Day2

Day 2

  • Vienna
  • More

Drive 5 km, 27 min

  • St. Stephen's Cathedral
  • Citypark
  • Belvedere Palace
  • Innere Stadt
  • Graben
  • More

Day 2 of your relaxed road trip through Austria means 24 hours of making the best memories in Vienna. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Vienna. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Vienna!

Set aside time today to explore Innere Stadt, a standout neighborhood that reflects the essence of the city. While you're there, you'll also be within reach of some of the city's top landmarks, making it easy to maximize your day. You might also want to visit Graben, a street offering another perspective on the city.

Whatever your travel style is, St. Stephen's Cathedral is an essential stop in Vienna. This wondrous church provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Stadtpark, a romantic park, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Belvedere Palace Chapel, an astonishing palace.

Austria makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun road trip experience. Aside from amazing sights, Austria also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Austria. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Vienna, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Begin your culinary exploration in Vienna by securing a reservation at Amador. This renowned restaurant holds 3 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of creative and contemporary cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Mraz & Sohn, celebrated for its delectable creative menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Steirereck im Stadtpark, a top local spot known for its tantalizing creative and contemporary menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Vienna.

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

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back road trip adventure across Austria.

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Day3

Day 3

  • Vienna
  • More

Drive 17 km, 1 hour 9 min

  • Schönbrunn Zoo
  • Schönbrunn Palace Park
  • Schönbrunn Palace
  • Mariahilfer Straße
  • More

On day 3 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Austria, you’ll go deep into Vienna, where you'll stay for 2 nights, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Vienna, and meet locals along the way!

Mariahilfer Straße is one of the highlights of today. Take your time exploring this iconic street in Vienna, which offers a perfect blend of history and culture. Plus, it's close to many must-see landmarks in the city.

Enjoy all that Tiergarten Schönbrunn has to offer. This is a top-rated zoo you should not miss. Another must-see is Schönbrunn Palace, a spectacular park in Vienna.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Schönbrunn Palace.

Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about Austria. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in Austria and ensure the experience of a lifetime.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Austria, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Vienna.

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.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in Austria.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Loos American Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Brandauer Bierstube provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in Austria!

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Day4

Day 4

  • Vienna
  • More

Drive 3 km, 43 min

  • MuseumsQuartier
  • Museum of Natural History Vienna
  • Maria-Theresa Memorial
  • Hofburg Palace
  • Neubau
  • More

Day 4 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Vienna, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Austria are extraordinary.

At the top of the list of things to do today is to explore Neubau, a neighborhood that captures the true essence of Vienna. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.

Museumsquartier leaves a lasting impression. This museum is one of the most notable places to visit in Vienna. Next, head to Museum Of Natural History Vienna, a well-known museum, known for its photogenic 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 Maria-theresa Memorial. This culturally significant monument is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Hofburg Palace Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Austria by joining a traveler-approved tour in Vienna. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Vienna that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in Austria more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Vienna to find the best options for you!

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Vienna has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Plachutta Wollzeile, a top-rated dining destination in Vienna. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Blue Box, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Lebenbauer. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Vienna this evening.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Vienna. The bars in Vienna make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at 1010 Bar Cafe Vienna. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Wunder-bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Roo Bar Australian Pub provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Austria!

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Day5

Day 5

  • Vienna
  • Lower Austria
  • Anzendorf
  • Melk
  • Salzburg
  • More

Drive 313 km, 3 hours 47 min

  • Museum Niederösterreich
  • Schallaburg
  • Melk Abbey
  • More

Day 5 of your relaxed road trip across Austria offers a day of exciting discoveries. You’ll start your day in St. Pölten and drive in the direction of Gemeinde Schollach for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in Salzburg, where you’ll stay for 3 nights.

St. Pölten’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Vienna behind. This drive usually takes around 56 min. St. Pölten welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Spend your afternoon discovering Museum Niederösterreich, a frequently visited museum known for its heritage-rich features.

When you’ve had your share of St. Pölten, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Gemeinde Schollach. Your travel time is around 23 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Schallaburg, a curiosity-inducing castle known for its history-steeped features.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Gemeinde Melk, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Gemeinde Schollach to Gemeinde Melk may take around 9 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Gemeinde Melk, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Savor the day by heading to Melk Abbey, a captivating monastery that draws visitors from near and far.

You'll be staying in Salzburg on this laid-back road trip through Austria. You'll stay here for 3 nights.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Salzburg has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Experience a symphony of flavors at The Glass Garden in Salzburg by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, The Glass Garden delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious modern cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Ikarus, acclaimed for its delectable creative and modern specialties. This local 2-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at SENNS. Restaurant, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 2-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for creative cuisine in the city.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Salzburg.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting The Salzburg Whiskey Museum - Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Harry Bär is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Darwin's Cafe Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible, relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Salzburg!

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Day6

Day 6

  • Salzburg
  • More

Drive 25 km, 1 hour 14 min

  • Salzburg Zoo Hellbrunn
  • Hellbrunn Palace
  • Fortress Hohensalzburg
  • Red Bull Hangar-7
  • More

Day 6 of your relaxed road trip through Austria means 24 hours of making the best memories in Salzburg. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Salzburg. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Salzburg!

Catch Salzburg Zoo before the crowds roll in. This eye-catching zoo is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the respected features of Hellbrunn Palace, a must-visit palace 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 Fortress Hohensalzburg, a captivating castle. For a change of scene, check out Hangar-7, known for its mesmerizing features.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Austria more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Salzburg offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Salzburg, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Augustiner Bräu Mülln, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, ARCOTEL Castellani Salzburg offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Stadtalm is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Salzburg.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Mentor's Bar Kultur, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Monkeys Cafe. Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Schnaitl Pub provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in Austria. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in Austria tomorrow with new energy.

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Day7

Day 7

  • Salzburg
  • More

Drive 2 km, 38 min

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

On day 7 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Austria, you’ll go deep into Salzburg, where you'll stay for 1 night, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Salzburg, and meet locals along the way!

Salzburg is brimming with adventures.

One of the most well-known attractions included on the itinerary is Mozartplatz. This romantic public square will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Mozart's Birthplace and learn what makes this history-steeped museum unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the captivating Haus Der Natur Salzburg. After exploring the museum, head to Mirabell Gardens. This increasingly popular park is a highlight in Salzburg. As your day continues, stop by Mirabell Palace, known for its awe-inspiring features.

Austria makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun road trip experience. Aside from amazing sights, Austria also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

Exploring the food culture in Salzburg offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Austria Trend Hotel Europa Salzburg, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Restaurant Riedenburg offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Die Weisse. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Salzburg.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Salzburg. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across Austria.

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Day8

Day 8

  • Salzburg
  • Wels
  • Krenglbach
  • Vienna
  • More

Drive 324 km, 3 hours 54 min

  • Tiergarten Wels
  • Zoo Schmiding / Museum - meeting of cultures
  • More

Day 8 of your relaxed road trip in Austria will take you on a self-paced journey to more than one incredible place in one day. See some of the best attractions in Austria, taste the most delectable foods and exquisite drinks, and make incredible memories as you go!

After soaking in Salzburg’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Wels. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 17 min. When you arrive in Wels, it's time to take a break from the road.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Tiergarten Wels, a worthwhile zoo in Wels. Explore its instagrammable features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Krenglbach’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Wels behind. This drive usually takes around 12 min. Krenglbach welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Zoo Schmiding / Museum - Meeting Of Cultures is a locally appreciated zoo we recommend visiting today. Discover its breathtaking features before continuing your self-guided tour.

When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you can relax in Vienna. Here, you can choose from the best hotels and other accommodations as you get to know more about the culture in the city.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Austria. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Vienna, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

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

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Vienna and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Kleinod, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Heuriger & Vinothek Joseph Ii. In Schönbrunn. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Blue Bar, another top-rated place in the area.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Austria!

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Day9

Day 9

  • Vienna - Departure day
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  • Vienna State Opera
  • More

Day 9 of your relaxed road trip in Austria is your departure day. If you’re flying home, return your rental car with time to spare. For a stress-free farewell, book a later flight and enjoy a final, relaxed day in Vienna.

Take some time to indulge in shopping at Vienna’s popular marketplace, Naschmarkt. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Vienna State Opera, an eye-catching opera house before you head out.

Over a good meal, take a moment to unwind and reflect on the past 9 days of your relaxed road trip. Savor one last traditional dish in Vienna, or keep it light with a quick bite before you go.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Vienna and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 9-day relaxed road trip in Austria is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.

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From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.
Secure your spot
Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.
Get instant confirmation
Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.

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