9-Day Austria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Salzburg traveling east to Bad Ischl, Graz, and Vienna
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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 Salzburg, Hallstatt, Bad Ischl, Gosau, Graz, Vienna, Gemeinde Melk, and Linz.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Austria takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 3 nights in Salzburg, 2 nights in Bad Ischl, 1 night in Graz, and 2 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 Salzburg, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Austria on your own terms.
An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Austria. Schönbrunn Palace and Prater are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable St. Stephen's Cathedral, learn more about the unique Belvedere Palace Chapel, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Vienna State Opera.
As you hit the open road and drive through Salzburg, Hallstatt, Bad Ischl, Gosau, Graz, Vienna, Gemeinde Melk, and Linz, 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
- Salzburg - Arrival day
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- Linzergasse
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Say hello to Salzburg! Your exciting road trip through Austria is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Salzburg for 2 nights before you continue your adventure!
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 Linzergasse, a must-see street, and taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Find your way to your hotel in Salzburg. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Austria. Settle in and make plans for the evening.
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 Salzburg, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
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.
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.
Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in Austria!
Day 2
- Salzburg
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Drive 25 km, 1 hour 24 min
- Salzburg Zoo Hellbrunn
- Fortress Hohensalzburg
- Salzburg Cathedral
- Mozartplatz
- Mirabell Palace
- Red Bull Hangar-7
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On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Salzburg. You’ll stay in Salzburg for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.
Immerse yourself in Salzburg’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Salzburg Zoo. This gorgeous zoo is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the romantic features of Fortress Hohensalzburg, a must-visit castle 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 Salzburg Cathedral, a popular church. For a change of scene, check out Mozartplatz, known for its grand features. We also recommend visiting Mirabell Palace. This palace is a must for anyone looking to experience the city to the fullest. Lastly, end your day with a visit to Hangar-7, yet another interesting attraction in Salzburg.
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.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Mentor's Bar Kultur stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Monkeys Cafe. Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Schnaitl Pub is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Austria.
Day 3
- Salzburg
- Bad Ischl
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Drive 105 km, 2 hours 23 min
- Hallstätter Wasserfall
- Viewpoint Hallstatt
- Evangelische Pfarrkirche Hallstatt
- Marktplatz Hallstatt
- Salzwelten Hallstatt
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On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Austria, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Hallstatt and Lahn. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Bad Ischl, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.
Immerse yourself in Salzburg’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Hallstätter Wasserfall. This instagrammable waterfall is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the peaceful features of Panoramic Viewpoint - Hallstatt, a must-visit observation deck in the village.
In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Christuskirche (hallstatt), a curiosity-inducing church. For a change of scene, check out Marktplatz Hallstatt, known for its romantic features. We also recommend visiting Memory Of Mankind. This cave is a must for anyone looking to experience the village to the fullest.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Bad Ischl. Bad Ischl offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
As you explore more of Bad Ischl, 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.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Taverna Corfu Bad Ischl, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Cafe-Restaurant Zauner is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Gasthaus Zur Bürgerstubn. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Bad Ischl tonight.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Café Bar Lafayette after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Stehbeisl, another bar with an inviting ambiance.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Austria!
Day 4
- Bad Ischl
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Drive 250 km, 4 hours 32 min
- Eispalast Dachstein
- 5 Fingers
- Calvary Gosau
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On day 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Bad Ischl, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate town. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Liezen and Gosau. You still have 1 night left in Bad Ischl.
Today’s route brings fun adventures, natural wonders, and breathtaking views. The first attraction of today is Eispalast Dachstein. This curiosity-inducing cave is a picturesque place to see in Bad Ischl. Continue your discovery at 5 Fingers, an awe-inspiring observation deck with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Bad Ischl, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this region so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Calvary Gosau. This underrated church offers a respected encounter with Bad Ischl. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Bad Ischl.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Bad Ischl.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Bad Ischl. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Börni Börger, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Landhotel Hubertushof is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Salzmühle Bier- u Weinstube. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Bad Ischl tonight.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Austria.
Day 5
- Bad Ischl
- Graz
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Drive 196 km, 3 hours
- Eggenberg Palace, Graz
- Schlossberg
- Kunsthaus Graz
- Old Town of Graz
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in Austria. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Graz. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Graz. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Bad Ischl. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Schloss Eggenberg is the perfect place to start. This palace is one of the most intriguing places to visit in Bad Ischl. Next, head to Schlossberg, a captivating castle, known for its symbolic 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 Kunsthaus Graz. This instagrammable art gallery is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Old Town Of Graz. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Graz, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Graz's best restaurants.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Cafe Mitte, a top-rated dining spot in Graz. If you're in the mood for something new, try Molly Malone Irish Pub, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Zur Steirerstub'n. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Graz.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. The Churchill is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Cohibar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Hops Craft Beer Pub Graz. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Austria and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 6
- Graz
- Vienna
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Drive 204 km, 2 hours 47 min
- Schönbrunn Palace
- Belvedere Palace
- St. Stephen's Cathedral
- Anker Clock
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in Austria. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Vienna. 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 2 nights.
Today’s agenda in Graz includes a palace, a church, and a monument. Schönbrunn Palace is must-visit palace and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Belvedere Palace Chapel, a famous palace, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to St. Stephen's Cathedral, a visually striking church, also available for your discovery today.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Vienna. 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 Vienna. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Aurora Rooftop Bar, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? VERANDA offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss die Feinkosterei Schwarz-Hirsch. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Vienna.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Tapete Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Star Inn Hotel Wien Schönbrunn offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Kruger’s American Bar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Austria.
Day 7
- Vienna
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Drive 9 km, 55 min
- Hofburg Palace
- Albertina
- Vienna State Opera
- Prater
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Day 7 of your road trip across Austria promises a magnificent time exploring Vienna. You have 1 night left in Vienna. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.
Get ready for an exciting day in Vienna. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a palace, a museum, an opera house, an amusement park and much more! Begin your adventure at Hofburg Palace. This is a locally renowned palace you should not miss. Another must-see is Albertina, a captivating museum in Vienna.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Vienna State Opera. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Prater, another of the city’s iconic attractions.
Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Austria is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.
As you explore more of Vienna, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.
Don’t miss out on dining at Boutiquehotel Stadthalle, a top-rated dining destination in Vienna. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restaurant Ofenloch, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Flanagans. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Vienna this evening.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Miranda Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Josef Cocktailbar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Roberto American Bar Ii is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Austria.
Day 8
- Vienna
- Salzburg
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Drive 325 km, 4 hours 6 min
- Melk Abbey
- Ars Electronica Center
- Lentos Art Museum
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On day 8 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 Gemeinde Melk and Linz. In the evening, you’ll end up in Salzburg, where you will stay for 1 night.
A blend of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views await you in Vienna on today’s itinerary. First up is the interesting monastery, Melk Abbey. Afterward, continue to Ars Electronica Center, a science center every traveler should visit.
As you explore Vienna’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the town. Next, make your way to Lentos Art Museum. This often recommended art gallery is an essential stop.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Salzburg. Salzburg offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Salzburg. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Austria Trend Hotel Europa Salzburg, a highly-rated dining destination in Salzburg. If you're eager to try something different, consider Restaurant Riedenburg, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Die Weisse. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Salzburg this evening.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Austria!
Day 9
- Salzburg - Departure day
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- Mozart's Birthplace
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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 Salzburg before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Mozart's Birthplace, an instagrammable museum before you head out.
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.
Before you conclude your road trip in Austria, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Salzburg.
If you're in the mood for something new, try Afro Cafe, another premier location with a delectable menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Salzburg. 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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