One-Week Relaxed Austria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Salzburg to Vienna
Description
Included
Description
Sit back and enjoy a relaxed 8-day road trip in Austria with this laid-back self-drive vacation.
This self-drive package allows you to travel through picture-perfect landscapes in Austria at a relaxed pace. Get a dose of comfort, fun, and recreation in Salzburg, Wels, Vienna, St. Pölten, Gemeinde Schollach, and Gemeinde Melk. Make yourself at home at top-rated hotels and stay 3 nights in Salzburg and 4 nights in Vienna. Finally, taste the local food and enjoy a refreshing drink at the most popular restaurants and bars along your road trip route in Austria.
Freedom of choice is key to a relaxing road trip in Austria. For your self-drive vacation, we’ll offer you a selection of the best rental vehicles with CDW insurance. Upon arrival in Salzburg, you’ll collect your rental car of choice. From there, you’ll begin your 8-day journey across Austria and discover its unique culture, history, and diverse scenery.
Experience the essence of leisurely self-drive exploration across Austria with our handpicked selection of accommodations. From relaxed stays at renowned 5-star hotels offering magnificent views to comfortable 3-star options that cater to budget-conscious travelers, we ensure your journey is optimized for relaxation and comfort. Discover the perfect place to stay and unwind as you embark on a laid-back adventure in Austria.
We’ll introduce you to some of the best travel destinations in Austria. This relaxed road trip features the stunning Schönbrunn Palace. Another highlight of this self-drive tour is the captivating Prater.
Traveling leisurely through Austria means you could spend as much time as you want at the magnificent St. Stephen's Cathedral. You’ll have plenty of time to take in each attraction's unique features, learn its unique history, and appreciate it to the fullest.
Enjoy strolling through Austria's shopping hotspots near your accommodation. Visit shops, discover the locals’ way of life, or try various specialties. Don't forget to bring home a piece of the country that will remind you of your relaxing vacation in Austria.
Between sightseeing, you can make the most of your downtime and join a popular tour in Austria. This relaxed road trip also gives you plenty of time to stroll through Austria's shopping hotspots. Through these experiences, you'll have plenty of opportunities to discover the locals’ way of life and soak in the rich cultural heritage of the Austria.
This self-drive vacation package includes everything you need for a stress-free, easy road trip through Austria. You’ll have a cozy place to stay for 7 nights, with a selection of top-rated breakfast and restaurant options nearby. We'll also provide you with the best rental car you can use throughout the 8 days of your self-drive road trip in Austria. On top of all that, you also have the option to add flights to your travel plan and personalize each day of your itinerary by adding tours and tickets.
This self-drive package includes 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide. You can access the guide at any point of your journey through our mobile app, where you can also keep and organize your travel documents.
Spend an amazing 8-day vacation in Austria and get to know more about this fantastic destination. Choose your travel dates and plan a laid-back and relaxed road trip in Austria today!
Itinerary summary
See a summary of the itinerary that you can fully customize
Personalize your itinerary
Customize tours under each day and destination
Day 1 – Salzburg - arrival day
- Salzburg - Arrival day
- More
- Mozartplatz
- More
Your relaxed road trip through Austria starts when you reach the incredible city of Salzburg, where you'll stay for 2 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Salzburg and begin your adventure in Austria.
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 Mozartplatz or 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 Salzburg. 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.
When you're hungry and ready to take a break from your laid-back adventure, treat yourself to a delicious meal at one of the best restaurants in Salzburg.
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.
Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Salzburg.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting The Salzburg Whiskey Museum - Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Harry Bär, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Darwin's Cafe Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Raise a toast as you look back into the highlights of today’s laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in Austria. Enjoy your first taste of Salzburg as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.
Day 2 – Salzburg
- Salzburg
- More
Drive 25 km, 1 hour 16 min
- Red Bull Hangar-7
- Fortress Hohensalzburg
- Hellbrunn Palace
- Salzburg Zoo Hellbrunn
- More
Day 2 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!
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Salzburg, featuring a stunning, a picture-perfect, a charming, a standout, and a culturally significant. Start at Hangar-7, a notable aviation museum in the city. Then, head to Fortress Hohensalzburg and soak in the ambiance of this romantic castle.
There are many interesting places to see in Salzburg and when you are ready for more, go to Hellbrunn Palace. This is one of the city’s most interesting spots. After exploring the palace, visit the popular Salzburg Zoo.
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.
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.
Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at The Glass Garden, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional modern menu. If you are in the mood for trying an alternative dining experience, consider visiting the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, Ikarus, known for its delicious creative and modern cuisine. Another highly-recommended restaurant in Salzburg is SENNS. Restaurant, a renowned restaurant with a 2-star Guide Michelin recognition, known for its delicious creative menu.
A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Salzburg.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Mentor's Bar Kultur, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Monkeys Cafe. Bar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Schnaitl Pub, another top-rated place in the area.
Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in Austria!
Day 3 – Salzburg, Wels, and Vienna
- Salzburg
- Wels
- Vienna
- More
Drive 309 km, 3 hours 55 min
- Mozart's Birthplace
- Mirabellgarten
- Mirabell Palace
- Tiergarten Wels
- More
Day 3 of your self-drive tour in Austria is your opportunity to see and experience the diversity of the country. You’ll stay in Vienna for 4 nights. Along the route of your relaxed road trip, you can get a glimpse of the locals’ way of life and visit some of the most amazing locations in Austria.
Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Salzburg allows for both. Start by heading to Mozart's Birthplace. This captivating museum provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Mirabell Gardens, a romantic park, promising a delightful encounter.
Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Mirabell Palace, a popular palace.
Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Salzburg and set your GPS to Wels. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 1 hour 16 min. Upon reaching Wels, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.
Head to Tiergarten Wels, a worthwhile zoo in Wels. Explore its instagrammable features at your own pace before you continue your journey.
When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you’ll have a relaxed time at Vienna. Here, you can choose from the best selection of hotels and places to stay as you get to know more about this spectacular city.
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.
Have a memorable dining experience in Vienna by booking a table at Amador, renowned as a 3-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional creative and contemporary menu. For a different culinary experience in Vienna, Mraz & Sohn shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious creative cuisine. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Steirereck im Stadtpark is known as a top local spot for its delicious creative and contemporary cuisine in Vienna. This 2-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.
As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Vienna’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Austria.
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.
Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in Austria!
Day 4 – Vienna
- Vienna
- More
Drive 8 km, 39 min
- Prater
- Viennese Giant Ferris Wheel
- Citypark
- St. Stephen's Cathedral
- More
On day 4 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Austria, you’ll go deep into Vienna, where you'll stay for 3 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!
A blend of an enchanting, a visually striking, a romantic, a respected, a picturesque, a sacred, and a grand await you in Vienna on today’s itinerary. First up is the iconic amusement park, Prater. It's a standout spot that offers a memorable visit. Afterward, continue to Viennese Giant Ferris Wheel. A visit to this observation deck is an enriching experience for all.
As you explore Vienna’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Stadtpark. This popular park is an essential stop that should not be missed. Following that, head to St. Stephen's Cathedral, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.
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 the food culture in Vienna 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.
Dine in style at Boutiquehotel Stadthalle, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Restaurant Ofenloch boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Flanagans. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Vienna.
Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Miranda Bar, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Josef Cocktailbar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Roberto American Bar Ii. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.
A leisurely self-drive holiday in Vienna can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in Austria!
Day 5 – Vienna
- Vienna
- More
Drive 18 km, 1 hour 13 min
- Schönbrunn Zoo
- Schönbrunn Palace Park
- Schönbrunn Palace
- Belvedere Palace
- St. Stephen's Cathedral
- More
Day 5 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Vienna, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Austria are extraordinary.
Start by visiting Tiergarten Schönbrunn, a prime spot to begin your journey. This mesmerizing zoo is sure to impress. Next on your list is Schönbrunn Palace, another must-visit landmark and famous park renowned for its romantic features.
While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the ambiance of Vienna by sampling some local delicacies or having a drink. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Schönbrunn Palace. This romantic palace is a remarkable attraction that offers a unique experience. Belvedere Palace Chapel also adds charm to your journey.
Austria makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, Austria also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.
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.
Savor the flavors at Puerstner, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Vollpension beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Zum Schwarzen Kameel. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Vienna tonight.
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.
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.
Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Vienna!
Day 6 – Vienna
- Vienna
- More
Drive 5 km, 44 min
- St. Stephen's Cathedral
- Vienna State Opera
- Hofburg Palace
- Maria-Theresa Memorial
- MuseumsQuartier
- More
Day 6 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!
Today’s itinerary in Vienna covers several incredible sights, including an opera house, a palace, a monument, a museum and much more! Start your adventure at Vienna State Opera. This top-rated opera house is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the instagrammable wonders of Hofburg Palace, a must-see palace in the city.
Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Maria-theresa Memorial. This locally renowned monument offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Museumsquartier, where you can take in its photogenic features.
Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Austria more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Vienna offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.
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 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. Additionally, Lebenbauer 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 fulfilling meal, continue your evening at 1010 Bar Cafe Vienna, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Wunder-bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Roo Bar Australian Pub provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.
Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in Austria!
Day 7 – Vienna, St. Pölten, Gemeinde Schollach, Gemeinde Melk, and Salzburg
- Vienna
- Lower Austria
- Anzendorf
- Melk
- Salzburg
- More
Drive 313 km, 3 hours 47 min
- Museum Niederösterreich
- Schallaburg
- Melk Abbey
- St. Stephen's Cathedral
- More
Day 7 of your easy and relaxed road trip through Austria gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience more than one place in one day. You will start your day by exploring some of the best sights in the town of St. Pölten. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Salzburg, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 1 night.
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.
Begin your journey at Museum Niederösterreich and explore the heritage-rich features.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Gemeinde Schollach, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from St. Pölten to Gemeinde Schollach may take around 23 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Gemeinde Schollach, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
Take your self-guided tour to Schallaburg, an intriguing castle that everyone visiting Gemeinde Schollach should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.
Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Gemeinde Melk. This drive usually takes around 9 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.
Your self-guided tour starts at Melk Abbey, a captivating monastery that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.
Continue your laid-back road trip exploration of the best attractions in Austria at Salzburg. Select from top hotels and accommodations in the city to recharge and rejuvenate.
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 Salzburg.
Make sure to reserve a table at Austria Trend Hotel Europa Salzburg, an iconic dining spot in Salzburg. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Restaurant Riedenburg, a popular restaurant in Salzburg. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Die Weisse, a hidden gem nestled in Salzburg. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.
Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in Austria!
Day 8 – Salzburg - departure day
- Salzburg - Departure day
- More
- Mönchsberg Elevator
- More
Day 8 of your relaxed road trip in Austria is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Salzburg.
As your final day in Austria unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Salzburg's best shopping area. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Austria.
If you'd rather pass the time visiting some attractions, this is your chance to go to places you may not have had the chance to explore yet.
One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Salzburg is the remarkable Mönchsberg Elevator. This observation deck and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 684 visitors.
Unwind and look back at the past 8 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Salzburg or just grab something light to keep you going.
Savor the flavors at St. Peter Stiftskulinarium, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Afro Cafe beckons with its unique menu offerings.
Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Salzburg and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 8-day relaxed road trip in Austria is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.
Similar travel packages
Discover other popular vacations in Austria
Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place
Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.