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Austria Road Trip

Vienna - Graz - Villach - Lienz - Innsbruck - Zell am See - Salzburg - Linz - Krems an der Donau

Expect on your itinerary

Urban life Urban life
Comfort Comfort
Road conditions Road conditions
Benefit-stress ratio Benefit-stress ratio
Culture Culture
Historical sites Historical sites
Landscape Landscape
Security Security
Austria Road Trip ACTIVATE MAP Stages9 km1,454 h/stage2.6

Best months to drive

I II III IV V VI
VII VIII IX X XI XII

Road Trip Costs

How much does it cost to go on a Austria Road Trip in Austria?

Economy
Low budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 594EUR drive & more 200EUR sleep & more 869EUR eat & more 792EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 1,861EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 2,455EUR
Standard
Mid budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 792EUR drive & more 263EUR sleep & more 1,595EUR eat & more 1,188EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 3,046EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 3,838EUR
Premium
High budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 1,683EUR drive & more 350EUR sleep & more 2,464EUR eat & more 1,584EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 4,398EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 6,081EUR
Camper
On the road in RV, overnight at camp grounds with self-catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 2,475EUR drive & more 388EUR sleep & more 605EUR eat & more 792EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 1,785EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 4,260EUR
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Austria Road Trip Itinerary

The Austria Road Trip is a great way to explore the country's stunning scenery and historical sites. Starting in the capital city of Vienna, the road trip takes you through Graz, Villach, Lienz, Innsbruck, Zell am See, Salzburg, and Linz, covering a distance of around 1454km. It's recommended to take 11 days to complete the journey, giving you plenty of time to explore the area and take in the sights. The best time to take the trip is during the warmer months, from April to October, when you can enjoy the beautiful landscapes and outdoor activities. Along the route, you'll find plenty of UNESCO Heritage Monuments, such as the historic city centre of Salzburg, the Old Town of Graz, and the Hallstatt-Dachstein/Salzkammergut Cultural Landscape. The roads are in excellent condition, making the journey safe and comfortable. However, there are a few border crossings along the way, so make sure you have the necessary documents. The Austria Road Trip offers an unforgettable experience and a chance to make lasting memories. It's suitable for all kinds of drivers, and can be managed with a moderate budget. So why not take the plunge and explore the country in a unique way?
number of days 11 number of days
route length 1,454 km route length
budget fair budget
good for family good for
traffic direction on the right traffic direction
accident level low accident level

START Vienna

Distance 1,454 km Driving time 23.7 h Pace: modest 378.1 kWh Airports VIE
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Vienna, the Austrian capital, is the perfect starting point for an "Austria Road Trip". Set on the banks of the Danube River, Vienna is a city of grand imperial palaces, stunning cathedrals, lush gardens and classical music. There are a multitude of attractions to explore in this beautiful city, from the grand Hofburg Palace to the stunning Schönbrunn Palace, the home of the Habsburg dynasty. The city also boasts some of the world's greatest cultural and musical institutions, including the Vienna State Opera and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. To get to Vienna, travelers can fly into Vienna International Airport (IATA: VIE), which is located just outside the city center. Car rental is available at the airport, making it easy to explore Vienna and the rest of Austria. During your "Austria Road Trip", be sure to check out some of the most popular attractions in Vienna, such as St. Stephen's Cathedral, the Vienna State Opera, and the Belvedere Palace. For an interesting cultural experience, take a stroll through one of Vienna's oldest neighborhoods, the Jewish Quarter. And don't forget to take a ride on Vienna's iconic Ferris wheel, the Wiener Riesenrad. Whether you are looking to explore Vienna's monuments and museums, take a romantic stroll along the Danube, or listen to a classical concert, Vienna is the perfect starting point for an "Austria Road Trip".

1 Vienna - Graz

Distance 278 km Driving time 4.7 h Pace: modest 72.3 kWh View map Itinerary
dining venues scenic road junction of road trips UNESCO World Heritage Site interesting  historic site accommodation options camper parking available
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Are you ready for an amazing road trip through Austria? Your journey starts in Vienna, and takes you through the stunning countryside and historic sites of Mariazell and Graz. This route is only 278 km and takes less than 5 hours to drive, so you can fit in plenty of sightseeing. Along the way, you'll have the chance to explore some of Austria's most iconic sites, including several UNESCO World Heritage sites. In Mariazell, you can visit the famous pilgrimage church and the nearby Mariazellerbahn Steam Railway. Graz is home to the iconic Schlossberg Castle, as well as the beautiful old town. As you drive, be sure to take in the stunning views of the rolling hills and the picturesque villages. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, just check the Itinerary of this stage. Have a safe and enjoyable journey!

2 Graz - Villach

Distance 179 km Driving time 2.6 h Pace: fast 53.6 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips interesting  historic site attractive landscape accommodation options camper parking available
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Graz, Klagenfurt, and Villach are three wonderful cities in Austria, perfect for a road trip! Start your journey in Graz and make your way to Klagenfurt, a charming city with a beautiful old town, the Wörthersee lake, and the Minimundus theme park. From there, drive to Villach, a city full of history and culture, with plenty of attractions to explore. Along the way, you'll be treated to stunning landscapes, charming villages, and stunning mountain views. The drive is 179 km and should take no more than 3 hours, so you'll have plenty of time to stop and explore the sights along the way. Make sure to visit the Graz Castle, the Landhaus, and the Cathedral of Klagenfurt, and take a stroll through the old town of Villach. You'll find plenty of restaurants and accommodation options in all three cities, so you can make the most of your road trip. For more information about attractions, accommodation, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check the Itinerary of this stage.

3 Villach - Lienz

Distance 116 km Driving time 1.9 h Pace: fast 34.9 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips accommodation options
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Welcome to the beautiful road trip stage from Villach to Lienz! This stage will take you on a journey of 116 km in less than 2 hours, with plenty of amazing attractions to explore along the way. Start your journey in Villach, the picturesque city in Carinthia. Here you can visit the Villach City Museum, the old town, and the Cathedral of St. Jacob. You can also take a stroll in the beautiful Schillerpark and enjoy the views of the nearby Karawanken Mountains. Continue your journey to the town of Oberdrauburg, where you can explore the old town, the historic church, and the ruins of Burgruine Finkenstein. Next, you will arrive in the charming town of Spittal an der Drau. Here, you can visit the Town Hall, the old town, and the Spittal Main Square. You can also explore the nearby Millstätter See, a beautiful lake surrounded by the majestic Karawanken Mountains. Finally, you will reach the town of Lienz. Here, you can visit the old town, the Lienz Castle, and the Zettersfeld Ski Area. You can also take a stroll in the beautiful Lienz Town Park and enjoy the views of the surrounding mountains. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

4 Lienz - Innsbruck

Distance 194 km Driving time 3.2 h Pace: fast 58.2 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips interesting  historic site accommodation options camper parking available border crossing
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Get ready for a fantastic road trip from Lienz to Innsbruck! This 194 km journey will take you less than 4 hours. Start your journey in Lienz, an idyllic city surrounded by the majestic Dolomites. Make sure to visit the historic sites such as the old town and the castle. As you drive through Brunico, you will be crossing the state border. Enjoy the stunning views of the Brenner Pass, one of the most beautiful mountain passes in Europe. Once you arrive in Innsbruck, take some time to explore the city, with its many historical sites and attractions. Make sure to visit the Imperial Palace and the Golden Roof. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!

5 Innsbruck - Zell am See

Distance 159 km Driving time 2.4 h Pace: fast 47.6 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips interesting  historic site accommodation options camper parking available attractive landscape
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Are you ready for an outstanding road trip? Then let's go on a journey from Innsbruck to Zell am See! This 159 km drive will take you less than 3 hours, and you will have the opportunity to explore the most interesting places in Kufstein, Kitzbühel, and Zell am See. In Kufstein, make sure to visit the Kufstein Fortress, a spectacular monument that dates back to the 13th century. Then, drive to Kitzbühel, a picturesque mountain town that has been a popular tourist destination since the 19th century. Here, you will find plenty of attractions, such as the Kitzbühel Ski Area, the Kitzbühel Museum, and the Kitzbühel Golf Club. Finally, you will reach Zell am See, a beautiful lakeside town. Here, you can explore the Zell am See-Kaprun Ski Area, the Schmittenhöhe Mountain, and the Zell am See-Kaprun Golf Course. Make sure to also visit the local churches and monasteries, which are full of historical and cultural significance. As you drive from Innsbruck to Zell am See, take in the stunning views of the Alps and enjoy the fresh mountain air. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Have a great journey!

6 Zell am See - Salzburg

Distance 106 km Driving time 1.5 h Pace: fast 31.8 kWh View map Itinerary
EV charging station dining venues scenic road junction of road trips accommodation options UNESCO World Heritage Site interesting  historic site attractive landscape camper parking available
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Embark on a 106 km long road trip from Zell am See to Salzburg and be amazed by the picturesque landscapes and scenic roads. From Zell am See, you will pass through the historical town of Bischofshofen and be able to visit some UNESCO Heritage sites along the way. The journey will take you less than 2 hours, giving you plenty of time to take in the sights and sounds of the area. On this stage of your road trip, make sure to take in the breathtaking views of the mountains, lush green pastures, and crystal clear lakes. You will also find plenty of opportunities to enjoy local delicacies, as well as accommodation options for a comfortable stay. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, get ready to take in the beauty of the Austrian countryside and have a memorable road trip experience.

7 Salzburg - Linz

Distance 164 km Driving time 2.7 h Pace: modest 42.7 kWh View map Itinerary
dining venues scenic road EV charging station junction of road trips interesting  historic site accommodation options camper parking available interesting cultural site
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Welcome to the exciting road trip from Salzburg to Linz! This 164 km long journey takes you through the picturesque landscapes of Austria, offering you a chance to explore the most interesting places. Your first stop is Bad Ischl, a charming spa town with a rich cultural heritage. Here you can visit the Imperial Villa, the former summer residence of Emperor Franz Joseph I, and the beautiful Ischler Salzberg. Your next stop is Linz, the beautiful capital of Upper Austria. Here you can explore the old town, the baroque Landhaus and the impressive Linz Castle. Don't miss the beautiful view of the Danube from the castle! During your journey, you will be able to admire the beautiful scenery and take in the sights of the Austrian countryside. Be sure to take a few moments to appreciate the rolling hills, lush forests and crystal clear lakes. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants and campsites along the route, please check the Itinerary of this stage. We hope you enjoy this wonderful road trip from Salzburg to Linz!

8 Linz - Krems an der Donau

Distance 146 km Driving time 2.8 h Pace: modest 38.0 kWh View map Itinerary
dining venues scenic road junction of road trips interesting  historic site accommodation options camper parking available
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip starting in Linz, Austria and ending in Krems an der Donau. This 146 km journey will take you less than 3 hours and will take you through the stunning Melk. Along the way, you will be able to admire the beautiful historical sites and the scenic roads. In Linz, you will find the Linz Castle, which was built in the 13th century. It is a beautiful example of classical architecture and offers breathtaking views of the city. You can also explore the old city center and its many churches and monuments. Your next stop is Melk, where you can visit the majestic Melk Abbey, a Benedictine monastery founded in 1089. The abbey is an architectural masterpiece and is home to an impressive library and a beautiful Baroque church. Your journey will end in Krems an der Donau. Here, you can explore the old town with its many churches, monuments, and museums. You can also take a boat ride on the Danube and admire the stunning views of the city. This is just one of the many stages of your road trip. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

9 Krems an der Donau - Vienna

Distance 112 km Driving time 1.9 h Pace: modest 29.1 kWh View map Itinerary
dining venues accommodation options junction of road trips UNESCO World Heritage Site interesting  historic site
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Take a 112 km road trip from Krems an der Donau to Vienna, and explore some of the most interesting sites in Austria! Start your journey in Krems an der Donau, a beautiful city located in the Wachau Valley, where you can visit the ruins of the old castle dating back to the 11th century. Then, drive to Trasdorf, where you can explore the ruins of the old monastery, built in the 13th century. Along the way, you will pass by some of the UNESCO World Heritage sites, such as the Abbey of Melk. Finally, you will arrive in Vienna, the capital of Austria, where you can visit the iconic Belvedere Palace, the Schönbrunn Palace, and the Stephansdom Cathedral. The entire trip will take you less than two hours to complete, so make sure you make the most of your journey! For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage.

  Vienna

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At the end of the Austria Road Trip, Vienna awaits you with its many attractions. Vienna is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, and its rich history and culture make it a must-visit. Vienna's Ringstrasse is a great place to start your visit. This famous boulevard circles the city, and it is lined with magnificent buildings, monuments, parks, and gardens. The Imperial Palace and the Vienna State Opera are two of the most popular spots, and the Hofburg Palace and the Parliament Building are also worth a visit. If you're looking for a great view of the city, visit the Stephansdom, a stunning Gothic cathedral. The Belvedere Palace and Schönbrunn Palace are also popular attractions, and the Hundertwasserhaus is a unique urban apartment building. For a taste of Vienna's vibrant art scene, head to the Museum Quarter. Vienna is also known for its many parks and gardens, including the Burggarten, Volksgarten, and the Prater. The Prater is especially popular, as it is home to the famous Giant Ferris Wheel, built in 1897. The city is also a great place to sample local food. Sausages, strudels, and pastries are just a few of the delicacies you can enjoy. The closest international airport to Vienna is Vienna International Airport (VIE). Whether you're looking for art, culture, or great food, Vienna is the perfect ending point for your Austria Road Trip.

Austria Road Trip at a glance

We believe that our road trip idea has become an ideal inspiration for your future holiday excursions.
The proposed ideas may become useful in the midst of your travels or already at the planning stage.
If travelling by car is your plan when exploring highlights around Austria, there are a number of essential traffic regulations to follow and a bunch of elements to be mindful of to make your trip smooth and safe. These tips will also become useful for holidayers who are interested in vehicle rental or renting a camper.
It is important to keep in mind the local road regulations when sightseeing around Austria. When moving around Austria in a car, try to stay away from alcohol at any price. The amount of alcohol that the driver can consume is rather low and amounts to only 0.5‰. In order to avoid speeding offence, it is best to never exceed 50km/h, which is the maximum permissible speed when travelling around the urban areas. In non-build-up areas, tourists can travel at the maximum car speed of 100km/h. Avoid exceeding the permissible speed of 130km/h when driving along highways. In order to stay safe, it is best to drive with your headlights on at daytime and equip your vehicle with a first aid kit and fire extinguisher.
The majority of drivers wonder about the costs of the whole tour. Depending on the budget option that you choose, the amount of money that you have to spend during the whole road trip may vary. Check out the available budget possibilities.
We estimate that the cheapest option when it comes to fuel to cover the planned 1,454km across Austria will amount to 200 EUR. Economy accommodation options may cost travellers more or less 869 EUR. You should also take into consideration the fact that you will spend roughly 792 EUR for restaurants and food in this option. Travellers will have to pay approximately 594 EUR if they are interested in the budget rental car offer as well. Thus, the estimated travel expenses amount to about 1,861 EUR without car rental and 2,455 EUR with car hire.
When it comes to the standard offer, you should be prepared to pay the maximum of 263 EUR on the fuel needed to cover the itinerary. If you are into standard accommodation options, you should remember that the expenses may amount up to around 1,595 EUR. When selecting this option, take into consideration that the restaurants and food within this range will cost around 1,188 EUR. Travellers who want to cover the tour in a standard rental vehicle can expect a cost of more or less 792 EUR. Drivers who would like to rent a car will pay about 3,838 EUR for the whole trip, whereas those who are not interested in vehicle hire will spend about 3,046 EUR.
The highest level of comfort of the premium option will meet the expectations of the most demanding drivers. When it comes to this offer, the estimated cost of the road trip will total approximately 6,081 EUR for drivers who are considering car hire and 3,046 EUR for those who do not need a hire car. Travellers who would like to cover the road trip in a premium hire car should expect a cost of approximately 1,683 EUR. In the premium configuration of the road trip, the cost of the gasoline needed to cover all stages around Austria is around 350 EUR. Holidaymakers who would like to go for top services in all aspects of their road trip should expect to pay roughly 1,584 EUR for restaurants and food and more or less 2,464 EUR for hotels.
Our tour can be easily adjusted to the needs of all camper fans. When it comes to this means of transport, you will pay up to around 2,475 EUR. Travellers will spend more or less 388 EUR on fuel allowing to cover all stages of the tour. Travellers who opt for camper rental should expect to pay about 605 EUR for overnight stays and around 792 EUR for expenses connected with food.
The Road Trip Costs section shows all the mentioned costs in detail.
The described 10 stages stages are perfect for exploration in a vehicle between May and September. There are numerous thrilling scenic drives and road trips that are available on our website if you like Austria Road Trip. Hopefully, the broad spectrum of trips will definitely match up the expectations of the most demanding holidayers.

Facts for safer driving in Austria

drink drive limit drink drive limit 0.5
max speed urban max speed urban 50 km/h
max speed rural max speed rural 100 km/h
max speed highway max speed highway 130 km/h
headlights at daytime headlights at daytime off
fire extinguisher fire extinguisher no
tolls tolls yes
seat belts seat belts yes

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