9-Day Austria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Vienna traveling west to Salzburg and Innsbruck

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Photo of Vienna Giant Wheel 65m tall Ferris wheel in Prater park in Austria.
Photo of Vienna from Saint Stephane's cathedral, Austria.
9-Day Austria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Vienna traveling west to Salzburg and Innsbruck
9-Day Austria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Vienna traveling west to Salzburg and Innsbruck
9-Day Austria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Vienna traveling west to Salzburg and Innsbruck
9-Day Austria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Vienna traveling west to Salzburg and Innsbruck
9-Day Austria Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Vienna traveling west to Salzburg and Innsbruck
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Explore the best of Austria on a remarkable 9-day road trip! Combine exploration with relaxation on a self-drive tour featuring Vienna, Salzburg, Sankt Gilgen, Oberburgau, Gosau, Hallstatt, Zell Am See, Innsbruck, Marktgemeinde Wattens, Gemeinde Melk, and Gemeinde Dürnstein.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in Austria. You will spend 3 nights in Vienna, 3 nights in Salzburg, and 2 nights in Innsbruck. 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 you covered.

Upon arriving in Vienna, 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 St. Stephen's Cathedral are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.

As you hit the open road and drive through Vienna, Salzburg, Sankt Gilgen, Oberburgau, Gosau, Hallstatt, Zell Am See, Innsbruck, Marktgemeinde Wattens, Gemeinde Melk, and Gemeinde Dürnstein, 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, accommodations, 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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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Day1

Day 1

  • Vienna - Arrival day
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  • Innere Stadt
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Your road trip adventure in Austria begins as soon as you reach Vienna and pick up your car. You’ll stay here for 2 nights and explore what to see in Vienna, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

Vienna is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. Taking a stroll in the city center is a great alternative. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

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.

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 Vienna, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Aurora Rooftop Bar, 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 VERANDA, 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 die Feinkosterei Schwarz-Hirsch. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Vienna tonight.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Tapete Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Star Inn Hotel Wien Schönbrunn, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Kruger’s American Bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in Austria!

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Day2

Day 2

  • Vienna
  • More

Drive 18 km, 1 hour 9 min

  • Schönbrunn Palace
  • Belvedere Palace
  • Maria-Theresa Memorial
  • Vienna State Opera
  • St. Stephen's Cathedral
  • More

Day 2 of your road trip across Austria promises a magnificent time exploring what to see in Vienna. You have 1 night left in Vienna. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Experience Schönbrunn Palace, a timeless palace in the city. Then, head to Belvedere Palace Chapel and soak in the ambiance of this enchanting palace.

There are many interesting places to see in Vienna, and when you are ready for more, go to Maria-theresa Memorial. This is one of the city’s most locally renowned historic spots of interest. After exploring the monument, visit the famous Vienna State Opera. Not far away, you'll also find St. Stephen's Cathedral. This church is a history-steeped highlight in Vienna.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Austria. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

Vienna is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Vienna.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Boutiquehotel Stadthalle, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Restaurant Ofenloch offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Flanagans. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Vienna.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Miranda Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Josef Cocktailbar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Roberto American Bar Ii, another top-rated place in the area.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Austria!

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Day3

Day 3

  • Vienna
  • Salzburg
  • More

Drive 303 km, 3 hours 47 min

  • Fortress Hohensalzburg
  • Mirabell Palace
  • Mozartplatz
  • More

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Austria. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Salzburg. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Salzburg, where you'll spend 3 nights.

When you’ve had your share of Vienna, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Salzburg. Your travel time is around 3 hours 20 min.

Savor the day by heading to Fortress Hohensalzburg, a popular castle that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Mirabell Palace, where you can soak in the standout surroundings.

Next, explore Mozartplatz, yet another notable place to see in the area.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Salzburg, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

Salzburg is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Salzburg.

Have a fantastic dining experience at IMLAUER Sky - Bar & Restaurant in Salzburg, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Indian Restaurant Taj Mahal offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, WeiherWirt is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Salzburg.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, The Salzburg Whiskey Museum - Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Harry Bär is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Darwin's Cafe Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Austria.

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Day4

Day 4

  • Salzburg
  • Sankt Gilgen
  • Oberburgau
  • More

Drive 175 km, 3 hours 10 min

  • Wolfgangsee Lake
  • Plombergstein
  • Kreuzstein Wasserfall
  • More

Wake up to day 4 of your road trip in Austria. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Farchen, Sankt Gilgen, Oberburgau, and Gosau. With 2 nights to stay in Salzburg, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Farchen is brimming with adventures.

Farchen’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Salzburg behind. This drive usually takes around 45 min. Farchen welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Wolfgangsee Lake, a worthwhile lake that everyone visiting Farchen should see.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Farchen, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Sankt Gilgen. This drive usually takes around 12 min.

Our first attraction recommendation in Sankt Gilgen is Plombergstein, an up-and-coming hiking area that draws attention for its idyllic features.

When you’ve had your share of Sankt Gilgen, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Oberburgau. Your travel time is around 11 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Kreuzstein Wasserfall, an up-and-coming waterfall in Oberburgau. Explore its eye-catching features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Salzburg and your accommodation.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Salzburg's best restaurants.

Dine in style at Augustiner Bräu Mülln, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, ARCOTEL Castellani Salzburg boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Stadtalm. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Salzburg.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Mentor's Bar Kultur, known for its lively atmosphere. Monkeys Cafe. Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Schnaitl Pub offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Austria!

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Day5

Day 5

  • Salzburg
  • Hallstatt
  • More

Drive 173 km, 3 hours 22 min

  • Viewpoint Hallstatt
  • Marktplatz Hallstatt
  • Salzwelten Hallstatt
  • 5 Fingers
  • More

On day 5 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Salzburg, where you still have 1 night left. You'll spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city, including Hallstatt and Lahn.

Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Hallstatt.

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 1 hour 21 min. Upon your arrival in Hallstatt, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Panoramic Viewpoint - Hallstatt. Spend some time admiring the peaceful features of the observation deck before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Marktplatz Hallstatt. This worthwhile public square is a traveler-favorite in the village.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Lahn, home to many well-known sights in the region. Upon arrival in Lahn, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Savor the day by heading to Memory Of Mankind, an underrated cave that draws visitors from near and far.

Our first attraction recommendation in Hallstatt is 5 Fingers, an underrated observation deck that draws attention for its romantic features.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Salzburg.

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.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Austria Trend Hotel Europa Salzburg, a popular restaurant in Salzburg. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Salzburg at Restaurant Riedenburg, 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 Die Weisse. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Salzburg tonight.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Austria!

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Day6

Day 6

  • Salzburg
  • Zell am See
  • Innsbruck
  • More

Drive 257 km, 3 hours 55 min

  • Zell am see esplanade
  • Ambras Castle Innsbruck
  • Bergisel Ski Jump
  • Triumphal Arch
  • More

Your itinerary for day 6 of your road trip in Austria includes 2 stops and features some of the highlights of Zell Am See and Innsbruck. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Innsbruck, where you'll spend 2 nights.

Set your GPS to Zell Am See and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 25 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Zell Am See beckons with new experiences!

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Zell Am See Esplanade and explore the eye-catching features.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Zell Am See and set your GPS to Innsbruck. 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 2 hours 6 min. Upon reaching Innsbruck, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Our first attraction recommendation in Innsbruck is Ambras Castle Innsbruck, a locally appreciated castle that draws attention for its romantic features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Bergisel Ski Jump, an instagrammable observation deck that stands out in the town.

Time flies when you're having fun! But don't forget to stop for a bit to eat and drink between your adventures. When you're rested and recharged, head to Triumphpforte, a beloved monument that offers a unique experience.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Innsbruck. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

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 Innsbruck, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Savor the flavors at Stiftskeller, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Thai-Li-Ba beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Breakfast Club. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Innsbruck tonight.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Café Bar Dinzler, known for its lively atmosphere. Music-bar Zappa is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Cafe Katzung offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Austria!

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Day7

Day 7

  • Innsbruck
  • Wattens
  • More

Drive 67 km, 2 hours 16 min

  • Top Of Innsbruck
  • Alpenzoo Innsbruck - Tirol
  • Golden Roof
  • Altstadt Innsbruck
  • Swarovski Crystal Worlds
  • More

On day 7 of your road trip, you'll get the chance to experience Innsbruck and Marktgemeinde Wattens. At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Innsbruck, where you still have 1 night left to stay.

Hafelekarspitze is an ideal stop early in the day. This curiosity-inducing mountain range is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Alpenzoo Innsbruck - Tirol, which may be one of the most instagrammable places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Innsbruck on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Golden Roof, a notable historical landmark in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Innenstadt.

After soaking in Innsbruck’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Marktgemeinde Wattens. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 21 min. When you arrive in Marktgemeinde Wattens, it's time to take a break from the road.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Swarovski Kristallwelten. Spend some time admiring the instagrammable features of the art installation before you continue to your next stop.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Innsbruck and your accommodation.

Innsbruck is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Innsbruck.

Savor the flavors at Gasthof Goldener Adler, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Sixty Twenty Bar und Cafe beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Café Central. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Innsbruck tonight.

Continue your lively evening at Montagu Bed & Beers, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Dom Cafe-bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Plansch Bar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Austria!

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Day8

Day 8

  • Innsbruck
  • Melk
  • Dürnstein
  • Vienna
  • More

Drive 529 km, 6 hours 10 min

  • Melk Abbey
  • Stift Dürnstein
  • Wehrkirche St. Michael
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 of your road trip in Austria. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 places, which are Gemeinde Melk, Gemeinde Dürnstein, and Sankt Michael. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Vienna, where will spend 1 night.

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 4 hours 9 min. Upon your arrival in Gemeinde Melk, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Spend your afternoon discovering Melk Abbey, a popular monastery known for its enchanting features.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Gemeinde Dürnstein. This car ride takes around 34 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Stift Dürnstein, a worthwhile monastery that everyone visiting Gemeinde Dürnstein should see.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Sankt Michael may take around 14 min. Upon your arrival in Sankt Michael, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Wehrkirche St. Michael, a worthwhile church that everyone visiting Sankt Michael should see.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Vienna. Vienna offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Vienna's best restaurants.

Make sure to reserve a table at Puerstner, an iconic dining spot in Vienna. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Vollpension, a popular restaurant in Vienna. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Zum Schwarzen Kameel, a hidden gem nestled in Vienna. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Loos American Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Brandauer Bierstube likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Austria!

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Day9

Day 9

  • Vienna - Departure day
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  • Hofburg Palace
  • More

Day 9 of your road trip in Austria is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Vienna 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 Hofburg Palace. This well-known palace is a hotspot among locals.

For a last-minute shopping spree in Vienna, Mariahilfer Straße is nearby. Enjoy a variety of retail stores, dining options, and essential services in one convenient location. Browse through boutiques to find unique and stylish fashion pieces to take home. When you need a break, visit a cafe and relax with a cup of coffee or tea.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Plachutta Wollzeile, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Blue Box offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Vienna. 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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Secure your spot
Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.
Get instant confirmation
Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.

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