9-Day Austria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Linz to Salzburg, St. Pölten, and Vienna and surrounding area
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Description
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 Linz, Salzburg, St. Pölten, Gemeinde Melk, Laxenburg, and Vienna.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Austria takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Linz, 2 nights in Salzburg, 1 night in St. Pölten, and 3 nights in Vienna. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!
With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Austria. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.
Upon arriving in Linz, 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 Schönbrunn Palace.
As you hit the open road and drive through Linz, Salzburg, St. Pölten, Gemeinde Melk, Laxenburg, and Vienna, 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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Day 1
- Linz - Arrival day
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- Luftschutzstollen "Limonikeller
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Your road trip adventure in Austria begins as soon as you reach Linz and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Linz for 1 night 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.
Linz 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 Luftschutzstollen "limonikeller", or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Linz. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.
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 Linz, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Make sure to reserve a table at PAULS steak & veggi Linz, an iconic dining spot in Linz. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of nuba - bar with kitchen, a popular restaurant in Linz. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Coconut Thai Restaurant, a hidden gem nestled in Linz. 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 Divino, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Café Bar Walker is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Solaris is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in Austria!
Day 2
- Linz
- Salzburg
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Drive 136 km, 2 hours 19 min
- Ars Electronica Center
- Schlossmuseum des Oberösterreichischen Landesmuseums
- Linzer Mariendom
- Carmelite Convent Linz
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 of your road trip in Austria. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Linz. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Salzburg. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Linz is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a science center, a museum, a church, a monastery and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the increasingly popular Ars Electronica Center and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Schlossmuseum Linz, a picture-perfect museum that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to New Cathedral, Linz, one of the city’s most beloved spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the worthwhile Carmelite Convent Linz.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Salzburg. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Salzburg's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Salzburg by reserving a table at The Glass Garden. Renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional modern menu. For a different taste experience, head to Ikarus, recognized for its delicious creative and modern dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit SENNS. Restaurant, a local favorite known for its delightful creative cuisine in Salzburg. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 2 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning creative foodies seeking culinary excellence.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at The Salzburg Whiskey Museum - Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Harry Bär for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Darwin's Cafe Bar is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Austria!
Day 3
- Salzburg
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Drive 13 km, 55 min
- Mirabell Palace
- Mirabellgarten
- Haus der Natur
- Mozart's Birthplace
- Hellbrunn Palace
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Day 3 of your road trip across Austria promises a magnificent time exploring Salzburg. You have 1 night left in Salzburg. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.
Salzburg is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a palace, a park, and a museum. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the interesting Mirabell Palace and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Mirabell Gardens, a history-steeped park that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to Haus Der Natur Salzburg, one of the city’s most well-known spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the captivating Mozart's Birthplace. When you're finished at the museum, Hellbrunn Palace awaits your visit. This palace is a history-steeped highlight on today's itinerary.
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 are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Salzburg. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Augustiner Bräu Mülln, a highly-rated dining destination in Salzburg. If you're eager to try something different, consider ARCOTEL Castellani Salzburg, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Stadtalm. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Salzburg this evening.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Mentor's Bar Kultur after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Monkeys Cafe. Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Schnaitl Pub also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Austria.
Day 4
- Salzburg
- Lower Austria
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Drive 249 km, 3 hours 1 min
- Mozartplatz
- Salzburg Cathedral
- Fortress Hohensalzburg
- Red Bull Hangar-7
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On day 4 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 Salzburg. In the evening, you’ll end up in St. Pölten, where you will stay for 1 night.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Whether you decide to explore Salzburg on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Mozartplatz is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this history-steeped public square before continuing your journey. Salzburg Cathedral is your next stop. This interesting church is one of the best-rated sights in Salzburg.
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 Fortress Hohensalzburg. This visually striking castle is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Hangar-7.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in St. Pölten. St. Pölten 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 St. Pölten. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the town, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Happy Family, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, KHIM | Asia Cuisine Restaurant is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Hotel Restaurant Roter Hahn. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in St. Pölten tonight.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Narrnkastl, known for its inviting atmosphere. Barrock is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Austria and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 5
- Lower Austria
- Vienna
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Drive 152 km, 2 hours 15 min
- Museum Niederösterreich
- Melk Abbey
- Laxenburg Castle Park
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Austria. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of St. Pölten, Gemeinde Melk, and Laxenburg. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Vienna, which will be your home away from home for 3 nights.
Get ready for an exciting day in St. Pölten. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a museum, a monastery, and a park. Begin your adventure at Museum Niederösterreich. This is a worthwhile museum you should not miss. Another must-see is Melk Abbey, a locally renowned monastery in St. Pölten.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Laxenburg Castle Park.
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.
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.
Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Vienna by booking a table at Amador. This popular restaurant holds 3 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of creative and contemporary cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Mraz & Sohn, celebrated for its delectable creative menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Steirereck im Stadtpark, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing creative and contemporary menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Tapete Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Star Inn Hotel Wien Schönbrunn, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Kruger’s American Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Head back to your accommodation in Vienna and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Austria!
Day 6
- Vienna
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Drive 19 km, 1 hour 12 min
- Belvedere Palace
- Schönbrunn Palace
- Schönbrunn Palace Park
- Schönbrunn Zoo
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On day 6 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Vienna. You’ll stay in Vienna for 2 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Vienna, featuring fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Start at Belvedere Palace Chapel, an impressive palace in the city. Then, head to Schönbrunn Palace and soak in the ambiance of this grand palace.
There are many interesting places to see in Vienna, and when you are ready for more, go to Schönbrunn Palace. This is one of the city’s most extraordinary visually striking spots of interest. After exploring the park, visit the widely recognized Tiergarten Schönbrunn.
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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Vienna. 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.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Boutiquehotel Stadthalle, a top-rated dining spot in Vienna. If you're in the mood for something new, try Restaurant Ofenloch, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Flanagans. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening 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.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Austria!
Day 7
- Vienna
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Drive 8 km, 39 min
- Prater
- Viennese Giant Ferris Wheel
- Citypark
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Day 7 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Vienna for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, scenic views, and picturesque spots in the charming city of Vienna. Your adventure starts at Prater, a world-famous local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Viennese Giant Ferris Wheel. This interesting observation deck is known for its breathtaking appeal.
After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Vienna's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Stadtpark. This romantic park offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable.
Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Austria is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Vienna's best restaurants.
Enjoy a 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.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Loos American Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Brandauer Bierstube. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Austria!
Day 8
- Vienna
- Linz
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Drive 185 km, 2 hours 34 min
- St. Stephen's Cathedral
- Vienna State Opera
- Hofburg Palace
- Maria-Theresa Memorial
- MuseumsQuartier
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Dive into day 8 of your remarkable road trip in Austria. Today you will explore Vienna, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Linz. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Start by visiting St. Stephen's Cathedral, a prime spot to begin your journey. This visually striking church is sure to impress. Next on your list is Vienna State Opera, another must-visit landmark and extraordinary opera house renowned for its historic features.
While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Vienna by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Hofburg Palace. This eye-catching palace is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Vienna experience. We also recommend visiting Maria-theresa Memorial, an interesting monument. Nearby, you'll also find Museumsquartier, ready to add charm to your journey.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Linz. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Linz. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at VAPIANO Linz, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Fu Cheng offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Wia z'haus Lehner. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Linz.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Exxtrablatt, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Austria!
Day 9
- Linz - Departure day
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- Linz’s main square
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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 Linz 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 Linz’s Main Square. This beloved public square is a popular place to see in the city.
Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones. Discover boutiques offering an array of stylish fashion choices.
Before you conclude your road trip in Austria, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Linz.
Savor the flavors at ARCOTEL Nike, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, STEAKHOUSE beckons with its unique menu offerings.
You’ll then say farewell to Linz. 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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