Road Trips in Austria

Vienna is one of the most visited European capitals; thus, it doesn’t come as a surprise that most tourists start their journey around Austria from there. A gateway between both parts of the continent in the past, Vienna is the best place to explore country’s musical heritage, interesting museums, and splendid monuments.

For those who quickly get tired of crowded city centres, Melk and Krems might become equally perfect retreats that are full of stunning architecture, including a number of churches, a Baroque monastery, and a Renaissance palace. 

The northern part of the country is characterised by unique landscape, picturesque villages, and great dining places that will surprise even the most demanding gourmets. The blissful Bad Ischl offers travellers a wide range of health spas that just need to be included in your to-see list. However, the major highlight of this inconspicuous settlement is a gondola lift that runs to an alpine pasture allowing visitors to marvel at a breathtaking view of the Salzkammergut Mountains.

The birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Salzburg, is a top-rated option for all the avid fans of art and music. Whereas in Wels, you’ll have a unique opportunity to visit an old water tower and have some fun in the municipal zoo. 

Innsbruck, located in the picturesque Inn Valley, is the jewel of Tyrol and Western Austria. Considered one of the most popular holiday options in the country, it has plenty to offer for all types of tourists. The majority of the architectural jewels are located in the Old Town. The city’s charm is hidden in the coble streets riddled with local restaurants and coffee shops that are hard to miss!

The southern part of the country is a treasure trove of natural and urban highlights. Lienz will welcome you with the beauty of the Dolomites and Bruck Castle dating back to the 13th century, Villach is well-known for its thermal springs and its vicinity to the spectacular Lake Faak, Klagenfurt has a dazzling Old Quarter full of fancy dining venues and a range of Renaissance buildings, and Graz is filled with the Baroque ambiance that can be felt in each corner of the city.

While traveling along the southern border, a fine choice will be the exploration of South Tyrol. With such settlements as Bruneck or Brixen, it will become an ideal retreat for those who seek idyllic views, green plateaus, and a variety of local food delicacies.

Recommended Road Trips in Austria

Austria offers a range of scenic and diverse road trips, each offering a unique experience for travelers. Here are three of the best road trips in Austria:

• The Grossglockner High Alpine Road: This road trip takes you through the heart of the Austrian Alps, offering stunning views of the country's highest mountain, the Grossglockner, as well as breathtaking vistas of the surrounding alpine landscape.

• The Salzkammergut region: This road trip takes you through the rolling hills and pristine lakes of the Salzkammergut region, offering a range of scenic drives and picturesque villages along the way.

• The Wachau Valley: This road trip takes you along the banks of the Danube River, through the charming vineyards and medieval towns of the Wachau Valley. Along the way, you'll encounter historic castles, ancient monasteries, and a range of cultural and historical attractions that make this one of the most scenic and diverse road trips in Austria.

Regardless of which road trip you choose, you're sure to experience the best of what Austria has to offer, from its breathtaking natural landscapes to its rich cultural heritage. So pack your bags and hit the road for an unforgettable adventure in Austria.

Generally, being a motorist in Austria gives you a lot of freedom and flexibility in terms of your destination choices. Driving around the top tourist attractions at your own pace is a major advantage, especially that Austria enjoys well-maintained roads and great infrastructure regardless of whether you choose to move along the main motorways or travel off the beaten track.

When travelling to Austria in the summer season, it is highly recommended to choose a rental vehicle that is equipped with air conditioning. For those who are into more fancy cars, you can also opt for a shiny convertible.

Roads in Austria are flat as a table and driving along the motorways will be extremely pleasant. The only things that can stop you from full exploration of the country are toll sections. In order to cover that issue, it’s enough to buy a motorway tax sticker that you can obtain at one of the gas stations or at the border crossing. There exist also motorway sections that apply additional charges. These are paid in special booths that are located along the motorway.

In order to drive on the Austrian roads freely, you need to possess your ID or passport, driver’s licence, liability insurance, registration document with vehicle technical inspection certificate, and the European Health Insurance Card.

Drinking and driving in Austria is heavily panelised, and the alcohol limit per 100 ml of blood is 50 mg. What’s more, you shouldn’t be talking on the phone while driving the vehicle. Don’t worry, the use of hands-free devices is fully accepted.

There is a wide range of on the spot fines that you can get if you don’t observe the traffic rules in Austria. If you don’t have enough money to pay when you’re stopped by police officers, you’ll be taken to a bank or a cash dispenser to withdraw the appropriate amount of money. Austria has also introduced a special system of the so-called “yellow cards”. If you get three of those, you will be banned to move around the country for a period of three months.

It may come as a surprise that Austria is one of the countries with the highest speed limit not only in Europe, but also worldwide. You are allowed to drive at a speed of 130 km/h on motorways. When it comes to driving in built-up areas and rural areas, you should observe the limits of 50 km/h and 100 km/h respectively. So if you want to spare yourself additional costs, it’s best to drive below the designated limits.

The obligatory items that you need to have in your car include a reflective vest, a first aid kit, a fire extinguisher, and a warning triangle.

When road-tripping in Austria, it's important to be aware of the following:

• Road conditions and safety: Austrian roads are generally well-maintained and safe, but be aware of potential hazards such as sharp turns, steep inclines, and narrow roads in mountainous areas. It's also a good idea to familiarize yourself with local road signs and rules of the road before setting out on your journey.

• Speed limits and traffic: Speed limits in Austria vary depending on the type of road and the area you're driving in. Be aware of posted speed limits, and remember that fines for speeding can be steep. Also, be prepared for heavy traffic in cities and tourist areas, and be patient and courteous when driving.

• Tolls: Some roads in Austria, including many of the country's major highways, require payment of a toll. Be sure to check before setting out on your journey and have sufficient funds or a valid credit card to pay the tolls.

• Parking: Parking can be challenging in cities and tourist areas in Austria, so be prepared to park in designated areas and pay for parking where required.

• Car rental and insurance: If you're renting a car for your road trip in Austria, be sure to read the rental agreement carefully and familiarize yourself with the car's features and operation. Additionally, make sure you have adequate insurance coverage, including liability and collision coverage, in case of an accident.

By being aware of these factors, you can ensure a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable road trip in Austria.

The best time for taking a road trip in Austria depends on your preferences and the type of experience you're looking for. Here are a few general guidelines:

• Summer (June to August): Summer is the peak tourist season in Austria, with warm temperatures and long days that make it ideal for exploring the country's many outdoor attractions. However, it can also be crowded and expensive during this time.

• Spring (March to May): Spring is a great time for road trips in Austria, with mild temperatures, blooming flowers, and fewer crowds.

• Autumn (September to November): Autumn is also a good time for road trips in Austria, with mild temperatures, stunning autumn foliage, and fewer crowds in many tourist destinations.

• Winter (December to February): Winter can be a magical time for road trips in Austria, especially if you're looking to experience the country's world-famous ski resorts and snow-covered landscapes. However, it can also be very cold and wet in some areas, and some roads may be closed due to snow and ice.

Regardless of the time of year, it's always a good idea to check the local weather forecast and road conditions before setting out on your road trip. Additionally, be prepared for changing weather conditions, especially in the mountains, and always carry adequate supplies and safety equipment.

Austria is a fantastic country for a road trip. With its stunning landscapes, quaint villages, and vibrant cities, it has something for everyone. But how much should you budget for a road trip in Austria?

The cost of a road trip in Austria can vary depending on several factors, such as the time of year, the type of accommodation, and the activities you plan to do. On average, you can expect to spend around €100-€150 per day per person for a mid-range budget that includes accommodation, food, transportation, and activities. This budget would cover staying in budget hotels, eating at local restaurants, and using public transportation.

If you want to stay in nicer hotels or eat at more upscale restaurants, you can expect to spend closer to €200-€250 per day per person. If you are on a tight budget, you can aim to spend around €50-€70 per day per person by staying in hostels or camping, cooking your meals, and using public transportation.

In terms of transportation, renting a car in Austria is a popular choice for road trips. The cost of renting a car varies depending on the type of car, the rental company, and the time of year. On average, you can expect to pay around €30-€50 per day for a small car. However, keep in mind that petrol prices in Austria are higher than in some other countries, so budget accordingly.

Another cost to consider is parking fees, especially if you plan to visit major cities such as Vienna or Salzburg. Parking in these cities can be expensive, so it may be best to park on the outskirts and use public transportation to get around.

Overall, a road trip in Austria can be affordable if you budget accordingly and make smart choices about accommodation, transportation, and activities. By doing your research ahead of time and being mindful of your spending, you can have an incredible trip without breaking the bank.

There are many great guidebooks and road maps available for road trips in Austria, catering to a variety of interests and travel styles. Here are some recommendations:

• Lonely Planet Austria: This guidebook is a classic choice for any traveler visiting Austria, including those on a road trip. It offers comprehensive coverage of the country, including recommended road trip routes, accommodation options, and attractions.

• Michelin Austria Map: Michelin is known for its high-quality maps, and this one is no exception. It includes detailed road maps of Austria, as well as information on scenic routes, tourist sites, and recommended stops.

• National Geographic Austria Adventure Map: For travelers looking for outdoor adventures, this map is a great choice. It includes information on hiking and biking trails, national parks, and other natural attractions, making it a great resource for planning an active road trip.

• AA Road Atlas Austria: This atlas is designed specifically for drivers, with detailed maps of the country's roads and highways, including information on rest areas, fuel stops, and other essential services.

• Insight Guides Austria: Another comprehensive guidebook, Insight Guides Austria includes detailed information on the country's history, culture, and attractions, making it a great choice for those interested in learning more about Austria as they travel.

• Marco Polo Austria Road Atlas: This road atlas is specifically designed for road trips, with detailed maps and information on scenic routes, road conditions, and recommended stops along the way.

No matter which guidebook or map you choose, be sure to do your research in advance and plan your route carefully to make the most of your road trip in Austria.