Cheap 9-Day Austria Road Trip from Graz traveling west to St. Pölten, Gmunden, Linz, Innsbruck, and Zell Am See

Your exciting road trip through Austria starts when you reach the incredible region of Graz, where you'll stay for 1 night. You'll pick up your rental car in Graz and begin your adventure in Austria.

Graz is a popular cheap holiday destination in Austria with something to offer every traveler. More than a region in Austria, Graz is also a great place to find top-rated budget accommodations. You'll find many of these accommodations close to bustling markets and cultural attractions.

It's now time to discover the mouthwatering delights of Graz, where top-quality dining experiences blend seamlessly with budget-friendly options. Check out the region's best dining options, offering a tantalizing array of flavors to satisfy every palate.

One restaurant we recommend you try in Graz is Burger Factory. This restaurant provides good food and service and has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,822 customers.

When talking about the best restaurants in Graz, Ginko is a name locals often mention. This local favorite offers a variety of options, helping it earn an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,319 diners.

Visit dreizehn by Gauster, an excellent place to enjoy a couple of drinks. This bar is one of the locals’ favorite hangout spots and has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 500 customers.

Flann O'Brien Original Irish Pub serves various snacks and drinks at affordable prices, making it another great bar option for budget travelers in Graz. Customers have rated Flann O'Brien Original Irish Pub an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 2,257 reviews.

Enjoy toasting the start of a terrific road trip vacation and a cheap holiday experience in Austria!

Day 2 of your self-drive vacation in Austria will take you to the region of St. Pölten, where you'll be staying for 1 night. On your way to St. Pölten, you'll explore 2 popular cheap holiday destinations in Austria, including Graz and St. Pölten.

Drop by the renowned Old Town of Graz. This popular point of interest has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,953 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Hauptplatz, Graz. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 15,716 visitors, this square deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Styrian Armoury. This armory has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 1,968 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Schloss Eggenberg. This museum and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,626 local and international travelers.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Schlossberg. With an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 19,998 travelers, this park is an attraction many avid travelers highly recommend visiting while in Graz.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Graz, you’ll hit the road in the direction of St. Pölten. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 44 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

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

You’ll also have your choice of the best budget-friendly accommodations in the region of St. Pölten. So when it's time for a break from your adventures in St. Pölten, relax and restore your energy at any of the following affordable places to stay.

After a long day of exploring and making the most of your budget vacation in Austria, treat yourself to a hearty meal and a refreshing drink. You’ll find many great restaurants and bars in St. Pölten that offer delicious foods and drinks to help keep you going.

Visit the popular Saloon Milwaukee. Serving a menu of mouthwatering dishes, this restaurant is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,157 customers.

Another restaurant you should check out during your cheap vacation in Austria is Restaurant Golden Sun. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 944 customers, this famous restaurant is one of the area's most recommended places to eat.

If you wish to dine at a restaurant locals love, go to the wonderful Schau. Spiel. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 1,163 customers, and is an awesome place to satisfy your craving for good food and service.

After dinner, stop by one of the best bars in St. Pölten. BarRock often offers travelers and locals alike a great time. This bar is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 262 customers.

You can also enjoy drinks at Cafe Pub Tritsch & Tratsch. This bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 271 customers.

Das VINO is another top-rated bar in the region. This place enjoys an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 181 customers.

Raise your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure and cheap holiday experience in Austria!

Day 3 of your road trip across Austria is another proof that cheap holidays in Austria can indeed provide you an extraordinary travel experience. Today's agenda includes exploring 4 wonderful destinations — Gemeinde Melk, Knillhof, Hallstatt, and Gmunden.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of St. Pölten, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Gemeinde Melk may take around 24 min. Upon your arrival in Gemeinde Melk, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Gemeinde Melk and set your GPS to Knillhof. 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 45 min. Upon reaching Knillhof, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Kick off the day at Tierpark Stadt Haag, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This zoo is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 7,639 reviews.

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

When you're ready to see some sights, Panoramic Viewpoint - Hallstatt is a great place to start with. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 10,737 visitors.

While exploring Austria is a refreshing experience, don’t forget to rest to regain your energy. Gmunden has plenty of top-rated accommodation options in all price ranges. Travelers visiting Gmunden on an affordable vacation can easily find a comfortable place to stay in the city.

Savor the culinary delights of Gmunden, where affordability meets excellence in dining and drinking. From inviting bars crafting signature cocktails to cozy eateries serving up local favorites, the city offers an unforgettable experience for every taste bud.

One restaurant we recommend you try in Gmunden is Runningsushi Bamboo. This restaurant provides good food and service and has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 560 customers.

When talking about the best restaurants in Gmunden, Kulturcafe Villa Lehmann is a name locals often mention. This local favorite offers a variety of options, helping it earn an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 306 diners.

Auszeit | Cafe-Bar-Restaurant is a must-visit. This bar is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 806 customers.

You can also enjoy having some snacks and drinks at Tapaletta. This bar is a popular hangout spot among locals and has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 333 customers.

Celebrate another day of your adventure-filled road trip through Austria with a toast. Cheers to a memorable cheap vacation experience in Austria!

Day 4 of your road trip across Austria offers you the chance to visit 2 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Salzburg and Linz. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Linz.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Salzburg. This drive usually takes around 57 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Set your GPS to Linz and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 37 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Linz beckons with new experiences!

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

Linz offers many top-rated accommodations suitable for travelers on a budget vacation in Austria. Whether you're in need of a quick break from your activities or seeking a comfortable place to rest, rest assured you'll find a welcoming and affordable option in the region.

When it’s time to eat, treat yourself to a lovely meal without paying more than necessary. Linz has restaurants and bars for all budgets, perfect for cheap holiday-goers.

You could check out ÄNGUS Downtown, one of locals’ top restaurant options in the area. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 1,173 customers, and is a great place to enjoy a satisfying meal after a busy day of exploring.

STEAKHOUSE is another excellent choice for cheap holiday-goers. This restaurant serves a variety of delicious and comforting foods and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,236 diners.

If you feel like having something different, check out the menu at Teesalon Madame Wu. This restaurant is known to offer good food at reasonable prices. Teesalon Madame Wu has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 833 customer reviews.

After your meal, consider going for a drink to celebrate this wonderful night in Austria. One of the best bars in the region is PAULS steak & veggi Linz. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,954 customers.

To gain one of the best bar experiences in Linz, we recommend the cocktails at CUCINA. This bar has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 840 customers and is an excellent place to make local friends.

Another of the best spots to experience the nightlife scene in Linz is Café Bar Walker. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 842 customers.

Cherish every minute of your road trip vacation across Austria. Celebrate this opportunity to enjoy a cheap holiday in Austria!

On day 5 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Austria, you’ll experience 3 charming destinations — Salzburg, Marktgemeinde Wattens, and Innsbruck. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you. You’ll end your day in the region of Innsbruck.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Salzburg, 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 Linz to Salzburg may take around 1 hour 39 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Salzburg, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Marktgemeinde Wattens. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 52 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Drop by the renowned Swarovski Kristallwelten. This popular museum has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 29,831 visitors.

When you’ve had your share of Marktgemeinde Wattens, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Innsbruck. Your travel time is around 23 min.

You’ll also have your choice of the best budget-friendly accommodations in the region of Innsbruck. So when it's time for a break from your adventures in Innsbruck, relax and restore your energy at any of the following affordable places to stay.

Going on cheap, budget vacations in Austria shouldn’t stop anyone from dining at top-rated restaurants and bars. More than just an affordable travel destination, Innsbruck is also home to a variety of excellent dining spots. When it’s time for a meal, we recommend you try some of the region's best places to eat and drink.

After a long day of exploring, we recommend you try Green Flamingo Innsbruck, one of the top-rated restaurants in the region. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars from 819 customers and is a great place to relax and enjoy a comforting meal.

Locals also recommend Ludwig, so you'll want to drop by this place. Ludwig serves delicious meals in hearty portions and is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 2,353 customers.

Another must-try in the region of Innsbruck is Himal Nepali Kitchen Restaurant. This restaurant boasts an exciting menu and is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,033 customers.

If you feel like having a drink or two after your meal, a popular bar you can go to is Cafe Katzung. This place has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,387 customers.

To enjoy a great atmosphere, continue your evening at auis. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,083 customers.

Fischerhausl is another great place where you can celebrate after a long, fun day in the region. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,059 customers.

Cheers for an adventure-filled road trip vacation in Austria! Celebrate this incredible opportunity for an affordable travel experience in the region of Innsbruck!

On day 6 of your budget-friendly road trip adventures in Austria, you’ll go deep into Innsbruck, making the most of your 1 night in the city. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Innsbruck, and meet locals along the way!

Visiting the most popular travel destinations in Austria sometimes leaves you longing for more. Fortunately, there are plenty of unique and cheap tours to try out in Austria. Austria has something for everyone, and you can easily pick an activity you can add to your affordable vacation package. Check out all of the budget-friendly tours in Austria that will fill you with new inspiration.

Savor the culinary delights of Innsbruck, where affordability meets excellence in dining and drinking. From inviting bars crafting signature cocktails to cozy eateries serving up local favorites, the region offers an unforgettable experience for every taste bud.

Gasthof Goldener Adler is an excellent example. Here, you can enjoy good food and service at affordable prices. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,007 customers.

Mamma mia is another great restaurant option for budget travelers. This restaurant serves a variety of delicious and savory meals at low prices and is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,098 customers.

Locals enjoy dining at The Galway Bay, and you might want to check it out too. This restaurant has an exciting menu and an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 820 reviews.

After dinner, look back into the highlights of today’s adventure and visit one of the best bars in Innsbruck, Cafe Bar Moustache. This famous bar offers snacks and drinks at different price points and is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 743 bar-goers.

Liquid Diary is a great place for anyone who is into classic bar drinks. This bar is considered one of the best drinking spots in Innsbruck, with its average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 340 customers.

Alternatively, you can drop by Adlers Hotel, where you can have drinks, let loose, and socialize. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,886 customers.

Celebrate another day of your adventure-filled road trip through Austria with a toast. Cheers to a memorable cheap vacation experience in Austria!

Day 7 of your self-drive vacation in Austria will take you to the city of Zell Am See, where you'll be staying for 1 night. On your way to Zell Am See, you'll explore 6 popular cheap holiday destinations in Austria, including Zell Am See, Hintertux, Gemeinde Rohrberg, Marktgemeinde Mayrhofen, Krimml, and Zell Am See.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Gemeinde Rohrberg. This car ride takes around 50 min.

Take the opportunity to see Zillertal Arena. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 6,733 visitors.

After soaking in Gemeinde Rohrberg’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Marktgemeinde Mayrhofen. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 12 min. When you arrive in Marktgemeinde Mayrhofen, it's time to take a break from the road.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Penkenbahn - Mayrhofner Bergbahnen. This extraordinary point of interest has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 4,881 visitors.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Marktgemeinde Mayrhofen, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Hintertux. This drive usually takes around 28 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Make Hintertuxer Gletscher one of your first sightseeing stops in Hintertux. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 11,182 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

While exploring Austria is a refreshing experience, don’t forget to rest to regain your energy. Zell Am See has plenty of top-rated accommodation options in all price ranges. Travelers visiting Zell Am See on an affordable vacation can easily find a comfortable place to stay in the city.

A cheap, budget vacation in Zell Am See should not stop you from enjoying incredible food. When you’re ready to have the best dining experience in Zell Am See, try some of our top recommendations.

One place locals and cheap holiday-goers recommend is Restaurant Kupferkessel - Kreml GmbH. This restaurant is known for its delicious and comforting foods and has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,415 customers.

The Burger Factory is another popular restaurant you can eat at to ensure an affordable and pleasant vacation. This restaurant serves good food at low prices and has an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,098 customers.

Pizzeria Giuseppe has a menu of appetizing and reasonably priced meals, so you might want to check it out too. The restaurant has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 1,129 reviews.

One of travelers' and locals' favorite bars in the city is GINHOUSE | Pub | Zell am See. This claim is supported by 331 customers who have rated it an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

If you want to continue your night somewhere else, head to another popular place like Sport- und Familienresort Alpenblick. This bar is a local favorite, with great drinks, lovely service, and an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 356 customers.

The options in Zell Am See don’t end there. You could also spend some time at the excellent Murrays Irish bar. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 221 customers, this bar is one of the best places to relax after a long, adventure-filled day.

Raise your glass to celebrate your fun and affordable travel experience in the city of Zell Am See!

Day 8 of your road trip across Austria is another proof that cheap holidays in Austria can indeed provide you an extraordinary travel experience. Today's agenda includes exploring 3 wonderful destinations — Pörtschach am Wörther See, Klagenfurt, and Graz.

After soaking in Zell Am See’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 2 hours 43 min. When you arrive in Pörtschach am Wörther See, it's time to take a break from the road.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Pyramidenkogel Tower. This observation tower is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 18,280 visitors.

Klagenfurt’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Pörtschach am Wörther See behind. This drive usually takes around 29 min. Klagenfurt welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Klagenfurt and set your GPS to Graz. 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 41 min. Upon reaching Graz, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Graz offers many top-rated accommodations suitable for travelers on a budget vacation in Austria. Whether you're in need of a quick break from your activities or seeking a comfortable place to rest, rest assured you'll find a welcoming and affordable option in the region.

As this day progresses, satisfy your hunger and quench your thirst at one of the region's best restaurants and bars. Many restaurants in Graz offer good food and drink options at even better prices; the perfect combination for travelers on affordable vacations in Austria.

One musty-try restaurant is Glöckl Bräu | Wirtshaus - Schank - Gastgarten | Graz. This restaurant offers good food at reasonable prices and has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,934 customers.

Freiblick Tagescafé is an excellent alternative with an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 2,186 reviews. Freiblick Tagescafé is known for its delicious meals that will surely satisfy your hunger.

Another of the best places to eat in the area is Operncafé - Cafe | Brasserie | Restaurant - Graz. This restaurant has an impressive average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,749 customers because of their good food, service, and ambiance.

If you're in the mood for an after-dinner drink, Die Scherbe is our number one recommendation. Around 1,667 customers have rated this bar 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Landhauskeller - Mittagessen | Abendessen | Cocktailbar | Hofsaison | Katze Katze - Graz also has a great drinks menu. This bar is a local favorite and has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,481 reviews.

Das Promenade is another popular place to spend the evening in Graz. This bar is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,447 customers.

Celebrate another day of your adventure-filled road trip through Austria with a toast. Cheers to a memorable cheap vacation experience in Austria!

Your budget road trip vacation in Austria is about to end. Day 9 is your departure day and your last chance to capture the beauty of Graz.

As you approach the end of your journey in Austria, take a moment for some retail therapy in Graz’s celebrated shopping district. Thanks to your stay’s premier location, you can easily visit the region’s commercial hubs and wander through its diverse range of local shops without rushing.

Whether you’re on a hunt for an ideal present to give to your friends or family, or looking for a personal memento to remind you of Austria, a variety of items are waiting for you.

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

For example, Kunsthauscafe has a menu of appetizing food and refreshing beverages and is rated at an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,982 customers.

If you feel like eating something else, tribeka is another restaurant worth trying out. This restaurant serves a variety of value-for-money savory dishes and has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,314 customers.

Another restaurant popular among cheap holiday-goers is Lend-Platzl. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,340 customers, this restaurant is a great place to enjoy unique flavors that will remind you of Austria and your fun memories in Graz.

You’ll then say farewell to Graz. 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!