9-Day Austria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Vienna traveling west to Salzburg and Innsbruck

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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.
9-Day Austria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Vienna traveling west to Salzburg and Innsbruck
9-Day Austria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Vienna traveling west to Salzburg and Innsbruck
9-Day Austria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Vienna traveling west to Salzburg and Innsbruck
9-Day Austria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Vienna traveling west to Salzburg and Innsbruck
9-Day Austria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Vienna traveling west to Salzburg and Innsbruck
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Escape the ordinary with this exciting 9-day road trip through Austria. Explore diverse landscapes, discover lively cities, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in Austria. You will spend 3 nights in Vienna, 3 nights in Salzburg, and 2 nights in Innsbruck. 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 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 St. Stephen's Cathedral are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.

As you hit the open road and drive through Vienna, Salzburg, Sankt Gilgen, Oberburgau, Gosau, Hallstatt, Zell Am See, Innsbruck, Marktgemeinde Wattens, Gemeinde Melk, and Gemeinde Dürnstein, 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, accommodations, 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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Day1

Day 1

  • Vienna - Arrival day
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  • Innere Stadt
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Welcome to Vienna, 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 discovering what to see in Vienna before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Vienna is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. 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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Aurora Rooftop Bar, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try VERANDA? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at die Feinkosterei Schwarz-Hirsch as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Vienna.

Keep the evening going at Tapete Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Star Inn Hotel Wien Schönbrunn, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Kruger’s American Bar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

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Day2

Day 2

  • Vienna
  • More

Drive 18 km, 1 hour 9 min

  • Schönbrunn Palace
  • Belvedere Palace
  • Maria-Theresa Memorial
  • Vienna State Opera
  • St. Stephen's Cathedral
  • More

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 the city and use the provided itinerary to discover what to see in Vienna.

Start your day at Schönbrunn Palace. This UNESCO world heritage-designated palace is a timeless place to see in Vienna. Then, wander over to Belvedere Palace Chapel. If romantic sites excite you, this palace will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Maria-theresa Memorial. This picture-perfect monument is a favorite among visitors.

Vienna offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Vienna State Opera is a famous spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the opera house, don’t forget to check out the visually striking St. Stephen's Cathedral. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this timeless church.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Austria. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Boutiquehotel Stadthalle, a popular restaurant in Vienna. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Vienna at Restaurant Ofenloch, 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 Flanagans. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Vienna tonight.

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.

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

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Day3

Day 3

  • Vienna
  • Salzburg
  • More

Drive 303 km, 3 hours 47 min

  • Fortress Hohensalzburg
  • Mirabell Palace
  • Mozartplatz
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Austria. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 place, which are Salzburg. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Salzburg, where will spend 3 nights.

When you’ve had your share of Vienna, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Salzburg. Your travel time is around 3 hours 20 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Fortress Hohensalzburg, a popular castle that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Mirabell Palace and admire its history-steeped features.

When you’re ready, continue to Mozartplatz, a locally renowned public square beloved by locals and tourists alike.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to 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.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Salzburg's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Make sure to reserve a table at IMLAUER Sky - Bar & Restaurant in 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 Indian Restaurant Taj Mahal, 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 WeiherWirt, a hidden gem nestled in Salzburg. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like The Salzburg Whiskey Museum - Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Harry Bär is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Darwin's Cafe Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

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Day4

Day 4

  • Salzburg
  • Sankt Gilgen
  • Oberburgau
  • More

Drive 175 km, 3 hours 10 min

  • Wolfgangsee Lake
  • Plombergstein
  • Kreuzstein Wasserfall
  • More

Wake up to day 4 of your road trip in Austria. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Farchen, Sankt Gilgen, Oberburgau, and Gosau. With 2 nights to stay in Salzburg, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Farchen’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Salzburg behind. This drive usually takes around 45 min. Farchen welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Spend your afternoon discovering Wolfgangsee Lake, a curiosity-inducing lake known for its romantic features.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Sankt Gilgen. This drive usually takes around 12 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Savor the day by heading to Plombergstein, an underrated hiking area that draws visitors from near and far.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Oberburgau. This drive usually takes around 11 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Kreuzstein Wasserfall and explore the romantic features.

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Augustiner Bräu Mülln, 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 ARCOTEL Castellani Salzburg, 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 Stadtalm, a hidden gem nestled in Salzburg. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Mentor's Bar Kultur, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Monkeys Cafe. Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Schnaitl Pub is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

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Day5

Day 5

  • Salzburg
  • Hallstatt
  • More

Drive 173 km, 3 hours 22 min

  • Viewpoint Hallstatt
  • Marktplatz Hallstatt
  • Salzwelten Hallstatt
  • 5 Fingers
  • More

On day 5 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Salzburg, where you still have 1 night left. You'll spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city, including Hallstatt and Lahn.

Whether you decide to explore Hallstatt on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss.

When you’ve had your share of Salzburg, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Hallstatt. Your travel time is around 1 hour 21 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit Panoramic Viewpoint - Hallstatt, a notable observation deck that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Marktplatz Hallstatt and admire its UNESCO world heritage-listed features.

Set your GPS to Lahn and hit the road. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Lahn beckons with new experiences!

Memory Of Mankind is a beloved cave we recommend visiting today. Discover its history-steeped features before continuing your self-guided tour.

5 Fingers is a curiosity-inducing observation deck we recommend visiting today. Discover its romantic features before continuing your self-guided tour.

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

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Salzburg's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Don’t miss out on dining at Austria Trend Hotel Europa Salzburg, a top-rated dining destination in Salzburg. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restaurant Riedenburg, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Die Weisse. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Salzburg this evening.

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

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Day6

Day 6

  • Salzburg
  • Zell am See
  • Innsbruck
  • More

Drive 257 km, 3 hours 55 min

  • Zell am see esplanade
  • Ambras Castle Innsbruck
  • Bergisel Ski Jump
  • Triumphal Arch
  • More

On day 6 of your road trip in Austria, your travel plans include 2 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Zell Am See and Innsbruck are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Innsbruck, where you will stay for 2 nights.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Salzburg, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Zell Am See. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 25 min.

Savor the day by heading to Zell Am See Esplanade, a locally appreciated boardwalk that draws visitors from near and far.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Innsbruck may take around 2 hours 6 min. Upon your arrival in Innsbruck, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Savor the day by heading to Ambras Castle Innsbruck, an often recommended castle that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Bergisel Ski Jump, where you can soak in the symbolic surroundings.

Next, explore Triumphpforte, yet another often recommended place to see in the area.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Innsbruck. Check in and relax 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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Stiftskeller, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Thai-Li-Ba is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Breakfast Club. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Innsbruck tonight.

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

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day7

Day 7

  • Innsbruck
  • Wattens
  • More

Drive 67 km, 2 hours 16 min

  • Top Of Innsbruck
  • Alpenzoo Innsbruck - Tirol
  • Golden Roof
  • Altstadt Innsbruck
  • Swarovski Crystal Worlds
  • More

Greet day 7 of your road trip in Austria with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You have 1 night to stay in Innsbruck, so get ready to make the most of your time in the region. On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Innsbruck and Marktgemeinde Wattens.

Let Hafelekarspitze set the tone for the day. Spend some time admiring this romantic mountain range before continuing your journey. Alpenzoo Innsbruck - Tirol is your next stop. This captivating zoo is one of the best-rated sights in Innsbruck.

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 Golden Roof. This symbolic historical landmark is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Innenstadt.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Marktgemeinde Wattens may take around 21 min. Upon your arrival in Marktgemeinde Wattens, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Swarovski Kristallwelten, an interesting art installation that everyone visiting Marktgemeinde Wattens should see.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Gasthof Goldener Adler, a popular restaurant in Innsbruck. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Innsbruck at Sixty Twenty Bar und Cafe, 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 Café Central. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Innsbruck tonight.

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.

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

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Day8

Day 8

  • Innsbruck
  • Melk
  • Dürnstein
  • Vienna
  • More

Drive 529 km, 6 hours 10 min

  • Melk Abbey
  • Stift Dürnstein
  • Wehrkirche St. Michael
  • More

Your itinerary for day 8 of your road trip in Austria includes 3 stops and features some of the highlights of Gemeinde Melk, Gemeinde Dürnstein, and Sankt Michael. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Vienna, where you'll spend 1 night.

Set your GPS to Gemeinde Melk and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 4 hours 9 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Gemeinde Melk beckons with new experiences!

Spend your afternoon discovering Melk Abbey, a notable monastery known for its history-steeped features.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Gemeinde Dürnstein. This car ride takes around 34 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Stift Dürnstein, an underrated monastery that everyone visiting Gemeinde Dürnstein should see.

When you’ve had your share of Gemeinde Dürnstein, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Sankt Michael. Your travel time is around 14 min.

Wehrkirche St. Michael is a locally appreciated church we recommend visiting today. Discover its romantic features before continuing your self-guided tour.

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.

Vienna is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Vienna.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Puerstner, a popular restaurant in Vienna. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Vienna at Vollpension, 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 Zum Schwarzen Kameel. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Vienna tonight.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Loos American Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Brandauer Bierstube also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

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Day9

Day 9

  • Vienna - Departure day
  • More
  • Hofburg Palace
  • More

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, begin at Hofburg Palace. This popular palace is a hotspot among locals.

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

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

Savor the flavors at Plachutta Wollzeile, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Blue Box beckons with its unique menu offerings.

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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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.
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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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