9-Day Road Trip in Austria and Italy from Vienna to Gmunden, Bolzano, Venice, and Klagenfurt

Your unforgettable multi-country road trip in Austria and Italy begins the moment you arrive in the awe-inspiring region of Vienna in Austria. You’ll check in at a top-rated hotel and stay in Vienna for 3 nights.

Catch an early flight to Austria to enjoy as much time as possible exploring Vienna before it’s time to hit the road and drive to your next destination. Discover the region’s rich history, breathtaking sights, and lively atmosphere with visits to the most popular attractions.

Find your way to your hotel in Vienna. 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.

After a day of exploration and awe-inspiring sights, it’s time to replenish your strength. Make the most of this stop on your multi-country road trip across Austria and Italy by rewarding yourself with a taste of Vienna’s local cuisine. After dinner, head out to a bar to relax or mingle with the locals and raise a toast to your exciting road trip adventure.

Discover an unparalleled culinary experience at Amador, a Bib Gourmand restaurant perfect to visit if you’re craving culinary excellence. This 3-star Michelin restaurant has a diverse and enticing menu selection, which includes its delicious and signature creative and contemporary meals.

Indulge in the exquisite flavors at a 2-star Michelin restaurant in Vienna, Mraz & Sohn. At this Bib Gourmand awardee, savor a combination of exceptional flavors with a memorable dining experience. This renowned restaurant’s meal selection includes its signature creative dishes, which are sure to tickle your taste buds.

Another culinary gem in Vienna you shouldn’t miss is Steirereck im Stadtpark. Enjoy a menu that has earned it a prestigious 2-star Michelin rating. Delivering a food experience like no other, this Bib Gourmand restaurant’s creative and contemporary menu and exceptional service make it a must-visit destination for those seeking exceptional dining in the area.

Wrap up your evening by visiting the renowned Needle Vinyl Bar, a must-visit hotspot in the region of Vienna. This bar has garnered an impressive average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars, backed by 774 delighted customers.

Alternatively, quench your thirst at the popular Josef Cocktailbar, consistently rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in reviews.

Or, for an authentic local recommendation, head over to 1516 Brewing Company, one of the top-rated bars in Vienna, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 10,352 satisfied customers.

Your multi-country road trip in Austria and Italy has only just begun. Brace yourself for more exciting days to come as you cross country borders in the comfort of your rental car and discover the most unique attractions, activities, and foods of each destination.

Wake up and see what day 2 of your great European road trip in Austria and Italy has in store for you! You will be staying in Vienna for 2 nights before continuing your journey to the next destination.

Before this memorable day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of Austria's delectable cuisine at one of Vienna's best restaurants. After a nice meal, enhance your vacation experience by enjoying the local nightlife or unwinding with a drink or two in the region’s most recommended bars.

Have a delightful culinary experience when you dine at Figlmüller – Restaurant Bäckerstraße. Favored by many foreign travelers and locals, this restaurant in Vienna boasts a carefully curated and enticing menu. Its delectable dishes have earned it an impressive rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from around 15,227 visitors.

Another dining spot you shouldn’t miss while in Vienna is Café Landtmann. It has garnered a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 13,586 diners thanks to its impeccable menu options and flavors.

Experience a celebration of flavors when you dine in at Salm Bräu, in Vienna. Its delightful menu and flavorful dishes have earned it a stellar rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 11,176 satisfied customers.

Wrap up your evening by visiting the renowned 7Stern Bräu, a must-visit hotspot in the region of Vienna. This bar has garnered an impressive average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, backed by 7,265 delighted customers.

Alternatively, quench your thirst at the popular Zum Schwarzen Kameel, consistently rated 4.4 out of 5 stars in reviews.

Or, for an authentic local recommendation, head over to Flanagans, one of the top-rated bars in Vienna, with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 3,132 satisfied customers.

Celebrate day 2 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 3, you will wake up in Vienna with an entire day of wonders ahead of you! You still have 1 night left in Vienna before it’s time to get back on the road and continue your European tour across Austria and Italy.

By dinnertime, you’ll be ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy the lively vibes in central Vienna. From mouthwatering restaurants to happening bars, we've got the inside scoop on where to eat and drink at this stop on your multi-country road trip across Austria and Italy.

For a memorable dining experience, be sure to visit Plachutta Wollzeile. Known for its excellent cuisine and commitment to quality dishes, this restaurant in Vienna has received a 4.3 out of 5-star rating from around 6,398 happy diners.

When seeking local-favorite dining spots, Vollpension should be on your list. Situated in the heart of Vienna, it has become a beloved food venue for its delicious menu. It boasts a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 4,641 satisfied diners, a testament to its favored status.

Ready for a culinary adventure? Book a table at Lugeck. This highly regarded restaurant in Vienna has earned a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars, thanks to its flavorful dishes and positive reviews from 4,346 satisfied guests.

Quench your thirst after a long day of adventure at Crossfield's Australian Pub, a prime hotspot for fun and relaxation seekers in the region. Crossfield's Australian Pub boasts an impressive 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 2,326 customers.

Or, try the exciting drinks at Loos American Bar, a vibrant place where locals and travelers converge for spirited toasts and amazing stories. Loos American Bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 1,538 customers.

As the sun dips below the horizon, make a stop at another famous bar in the area, Kleinod. This bar is a local favorite, with an impressive rating of 4.5 out of 5-star from 1,538 customers.

Take in the ambiance of Vienna as this vacation day slowly comes to an end. Whether you’re going bar hopping or you decide on a quiet night at your hotel, you have another exciting day of your road trip to look forward to!

On day 4 of your multi-country road trip across Austria and Italy, 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 to see in Vienna in Austria. In the evening, you’ll end up in Gmunden, where you will stay for 1 night.

One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable St. Stephen's Cathedral. This outstanding catholic cathedral and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.7 stars out of 5 from 103,855 travelers, a visit to the remarkable St. Stephen's Cathedral is worth pages in your travel diary.

The fascinating Hofburg Palace is another of the city's top attractions that will stir your curiosity. This castle and tourist destination boasts an average review score of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 47,034 travelers.

This day is also your chance to see the amazing museum, Museum of Natural History Vienna. With an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 33,317 travelers, a trip to this wonderful site promises a memorable experience.

The top-rated MuseumsQuartier, an outstanding catholic cathedral, is one place you should visit while in Vienna considering its average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 30,180 travelers.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Vienna, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Gmunden may take around 2 hours 39 min. Upon your arrival in Gmunden, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Upon arrival, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

An exhilarating day of exploring and driving will have you longing for a comfortable bed at the end of the day. Fortunately, Gmunden’s top hotels offer a lovely retreat at day’s end. Choose from options ranging from budget to luxury.

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Gmunden’s regional flavors and culminate your day with a toast. We’ve curated a guide to the city’s culinary and nightlife hotspots to enhance your experience during your multi-country vacation in Austria and Italy.

For a memorable dining experience, be sure to visit Runningsushi Bamboo. Known for its excellent cuisine and commitment to quality dishes, this restaurant in Gmunden has received a 4.3 out of 5-star rating from around 560 happy diners.

When seeking local-favorite dining spots, Kulturcafe Villa Lehmann should be on your list. Situated in the heart of Gmunden, it has become a beloved food venue for its delicious menu. It boasts a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 306 satisfied diners, a testament to its favored status.

Ready for a culinary adventure? Book a table at Meteora. This highly regarded restaurant in Gmunden has earned a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars, thanks to its flavorful dishes and positive reviews from 260 satisfied guests.

Quench your thirst after a long day of adventure at Auszeit | Cafe-Bar-Restaurant, a prime hotspot for fun and relaxation seekers in the city. Auszeit | Cafe-Bar-Restaurant boasts an impressive 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 806 customers.

Or, try the exciting drinks at Tapaletta, a vibrant place where locals and travelers converge for spirited toasts and amazing stories. Tapaletta has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 333 customers.

Go to bed happy and look forward to a good night’s sleep as soon as your head hits the pillow. Your European tour continues tomorrow!

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Austria and Italy. Today's main destinations are Salzburg in Austria and Bolzano in Italy, 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 Bolzano. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Salzburg today.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Salzburg. This car ride takes around 57 min.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Salzburg and set your GPS to Bolzano, Italy. 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 3 hours 43 min. Upon reaching Bolzano, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination.

After a long day of discovery, it's time to settle in at a top-rated hotel in Bolzano. Indulge in well-deserved rest and rejuvenation, preparing for the continued adventure that lies ahead.

As the sun sets on day 5 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Bolzano's top restaurants and eateries, each offering a local taste of Italy to remember your trip by. After a fulfilling dinner, dive into the city’s local nightlife. Whether you prefer the bustling energy of popular pubs or want to take in the ambiance of a quiet bar, Bolzano has them.

Make your stay in Bolzano one for the books by indulging in an unforgettable culinary experience at Vögele, a gem acclaimed by food experts. Its delightful regional and traditional cuisine and the praise from satisfied patrons speak of its outstanding quality. Vögele promises exceptional dishes and ensures your dining experience will be nothing short of extraordinary.

Another Michelin restaurant in Bolzano you shouldn’t miss is the Bib-Gourmand awardee In Viaggio - Claudio Melis. With 1 Michelin star rating, it’s a haven for food lovers and enthusiasts. In Viaggio - Claudio Melis proudly maintains an outstanding reputation, attracting diners from near and far, all delighted by its creative and contemporary culinary offerings.

Wirtshaus Vögele stands out as a local favorite in Bolzano. It offers a menu that promises to take you on a flavorful journey. Due to its reputation for delivering a good dining experience, it has earned a 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 2,218 customers.

After your meal, continue your getaway at one of the hottest bars in the city, Castel Flavon. This bar has an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 721 customers.

Alternatively, you can grab a few shots of your favorite drink and have an amazing night at the famous Temple Bar. This incredible bar has a vibrant atmosphere and plays great music, worthy of its average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 803 customers.

Grifoncino cannot be missed with its wide selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Around 243 bar lovers have given this place a seal of approval with their 4.8 out of 5 stars average rating.

As the night falls in Bolzano, take a moment to savor the experiences of the day. Wash away your fatigue with a drink, or lay back and relax at your hotel, and look forward to another thrilling day of your multi-country journey across Europe.

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your multi-country journey across Austria and Italy. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Verona in Italy. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Venice where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Valeggio sul Mincio, 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 Bolzano to Valeggio sul Mincio may take around 2 hours without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Verona’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Valeggio sul Mincio behind. This drive usually takes around 48 min. Verona welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Venice. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 25 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Relax your senses after a day of exhilarating activities and fun exploration. Retreat to one of the best accommodations in Venice.

As the sun dips under the horizon, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Venice. Check out our recommendations on where to wine and dine while seeing this marvelous destination in Italy in a new light. After dinner, head out to a bar to relax, mingle with the locals, and raise a toast to your unforgettable road trip vacation in Europe.

Discover an unparalleled culinary experience at Local, a Bib Gourmand restaurant perfect to visit if you’re craving culinary excellence. This 1-star Michelin restaurant has a diverse and enticing menu selection, which includes its delicious and signature contemporary meals.

Indulge in the exquisite flavors at a 1-star Michelin restaurant in Venice, Wistèria. At this Bib Gourmand awardee, savor a combination of exceptional flavors with a memorable dining experience. This renowned restaurant’s meal selection includes its signature contemporary and venetian dishes, which are sure to tickle your taste buds.

Another culinary gem in Venice you shouldn’t miss is Quadri. Enjoy a menu that has earned it a prestigious 1-star Michelin rating. Delivering a food experience like no other, this Bib Gourmand restaurant’s modern menu and exceptional service make it a must-visit destination for those seeking exceptional dining in the area.

If you’re in the mood for a drink, visit Adagio, one of the top bars in the city. An excellent place to unwind and enjoy a refreshing evening drink, Adagio has earned an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars from 621 customers.

Alternatively, you could enjoy a toast with locals and other travelers at Il Mercante, a crowd-favorite. Around 666 customers have rated their experience at Il Mercante an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

Cantina Do Spade belongs to the list of the best bars in Venice, and its ratings and reviews are proof of this claim. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 3,120 bar-goers.

Celebrate day 6 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 7 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Austria and Italy, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Venice in Italy and Klagenfurt in Austria. When you’re not exploring the region and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Klagenfurt, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Rialto Bridge is a travelers’ favorite in Venice, and today you’ll have the opportunity to discover it too! This one-of-a-kind attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 141,666 visitors.

In Venice, don’t miss Piazza San Marco, a great square and place to see in the city. This outstanding attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 152,982 reviews.

Check other top attractions in Venice off your list when you visit the wonderful St Mark's Basilica. This popular sight is an outstanding cathedral, rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 18,439 travelers.

Beyond the above-mentioned top sights, take the opportunity to visit the outstanding Doge's Palace. This palace and place of interest has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 24,775 reviews. It’s estimated that around 318,104 people come to admire it every year.

Klagenfurt’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Venice behind. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 4 min. Klagenfurt welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Take some time off from the road, it’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in Klagenfurt. Choose a hotel where you can gently let go of the day’s excitement and enjoy some peace and relaxation.

After a day of exploration and awe-inspiring sights, it’s time to replenish your strength. Make the most of this stop on your multi-country road trip across Austria and Italy by rewarding yourself with a taste of Klagenfurt’s local cuisine. After dinner, head out to a bar to relax or mingle with the locals and raise a toast to your exciting road trip adventure.

Make sure to book a table at Das Katzencafé - Cat’n’Coffee, a popular restaurant in Klagenfurt. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of food lovers. Its commitment to culinary excellence is evident in its 4.8 out of 5-star rating from 1,446 satisfied guests.

Do not miss the opportunity to dine at Zum Heiligen Josef during your stay in Klagenfurt. This popular dining spot boasts a tantalizing menu, earning a remarkable rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars, esteemed by 733 satisfied guests.

Savor the flavors of Gasthaus im Landhaushof, a renowned dining destination in Klagenfurt. Offering a menu that's sure to please, it has a gained 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 2,231 satisfied guests.

For a sip of relaxation, head over to Frankie's Restaurant Bar & Café, a top-notch spot in the region scene. Whether you're unwinding solo or with pals, Frankie's Restaurant Bar & Café has charmed many with its 4.5 out of 5-star rating, as attested by 1,192 happy guests.

Or, join the buzz at 151 Bistro Bar, where locals and fellow explorers gather for good times and good chats. 151 Bistro Bar captures hearts with its 4.7 out of 5-star rating, drawing acclaim from 607 merry-makers.

And don't miss out on McMullens Klagenfurt, another local party gem in Klagenfurt. This bar has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 196 reviews, highlighting its charm and popularity in the area.

Relax, recharge, and look forward to what tomorrow holds. The opportunities are endless with a European self-drive tour!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 3 stops. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Pörtschach am Wörther See in Austria. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Vienna, your home for 1 night.

After soaking in Klagenfurt’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Pörtschach am Wörther See. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 25 min. When you arrive in Pörtschach am Wörther See, it's time to take a break from the road.

Pyramidenkogel Tower is a travelers’ favorite in Pörtschach am Wörther See, and today you’ll have the opportunity to discover it too! This one-of-a-kind attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 18,280 visitors.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Graz. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 5 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Pörtschach am Wörther See today.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Graz, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Vienna may take around 2 hours 16 min. Upon your arrival in Vienna, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Vienna. This is not only a place to sleep but your home away from home, offering a warm welcome after a long day on the road.

Before this memorable day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of Austria's delectable cuisine at one of Vienna's best restaurants. After a nice meal, enhance your vacation experience by enjoying the local nightlife or unwinding with a drink or two in the region’s most recommended bars.

Don't miss out on experiencing Reinthaler's Beisl, a renowned dining spot in Vienna. This restaurant's rich flavors have left a lasting impression on diners. Its dedication to culinary perfection is evident in its 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 3,346 satisfied guests.

Make a reservation at Puerstner while immersing yourself in Vienna. This distinguished restaurant offers imaginative dishes, with a remarkable rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 3,511 guests.

Discover the culinary treasures of Rinderwahn, a beloved dining establishment within Vienna. Its exquisite menu promises to tantalize your taste buds and transport you to culinary bliss. Renowned for its exceptional service, it has earned a 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 3,045 satisfied customers.

Spend the night with your favorite cocktail in hand at Roberto American Bar. This bar is among the most recommended in the region, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 737 customers.

Embrace relaxation as you toast to a fantastic night at Wienerin. This popular bar in Vienna is a local favorite with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 863 customers.

If you want to check out another bar in the area, you’ll love Kruger’s American Bar. This bar is known for its many choices of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Kruger’s American Bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 704 reviews.

Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in Austria and Italy! Enjoy your evening in Vienna to the fullest by mingling with the locals at a bar, taking a stroll around the region center, or simply just relaxing.

On day 9 you have reached the last destination of your European road trip. Catch one last glimpse of Vienna before it’s time to leave.

Depending on how much time you have before your departure, you may want to engage in some last-minute shopping or souvenir hunting. Get some unique items to remind you of your great European road trip across Austria and Italy. If shopping isn’t your thing, visit some of the lesser-known attractions you have yet to discover.

On your last day in Austria, take time to indulge in shopping at Vienna’s popular marketplace. Thanks to your accommodation’s strategic location, region’s bustling commercial district is only a stone’s throw away, giving you ample time to leisurely explore the area, filled with local shops.

Take time to find the perfect present, reminding you of the charms of Austria. Each store here is brimming with unique finds.

Get a last taste of Austria’s tasty traditional food. Choose from a curated list of the best local food and drink spots in Vienna and enjoy what may be your last vacation meal of this trip. Look forward to recreating these distinct culinary experiences in your own kitchen later to remind you of your unforgettable road trip across Austria and Italy.

The time has come to say farewell to Vienna for now. You will realize that you’re traveling home with more than you came with as you look back at your 9-day European road trip in Austria and Italy with fond memories. Safe travels!