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?
11
number of days
1,447 km
route length
fair
budget
family
good for
on the right
traffic direction
low
accident level
Vienna/Vienna/Photo by Julius_Silver on Pixabay
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START
Vienna
Distance 1,447 km
Driving time 24.9 h
Pace: modest
376.2 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 4.9 h
Pace: modest
72.3 kWh
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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!
Graz - Austria - Europe - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
Graz - Austria - Europe - Road Trip - www.flickr.com
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2
Graz
- Villach
Distance 179 km
Driving time 2.8 h
Pace: fast
53.8 kWh
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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.
Villach - Austria - Europe - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
Villach - Austria - Europe - Road Trip - it.wikipedia.org
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3
Villach
- Lienz
Distance 116 km
Driving time 1.9 h
Pace: fast
34.9 kWh
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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!
Lienz - Austria - Europe - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
Lienz - Austria - Europe - Road Trip - pxhere.com
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4
Lienz
- Innsbruck
Distance 193 km
Driving time 3.3 h
Pace: modest
50.1 kWh
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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!
Innsbruck - Austria - Europe - Road Trip - pixabay.com
Innsbruck - Austria - Europe - Road Trip - www.wallpaperflare.com
Innsbruck - Austria - Europe - Road Trip - www.flickr.com
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5
Innsbruck
- Zell am See
Distance 159 km
Driving time 2.5 h
Pace: fast
47.6 kWh
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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!
Zell am See - Austria - Europe - Road Trip - www.wallpaperflare.com
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6
Zell am See
- Salzburg
Distance 96 km
Driving time 1.7 h
Pace: modest
25.0 kWh
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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.
Salzburg - Austria - Europe - Road Trip - pixabay.com
Salzburg - Austria - Europe - Road Trip - www.wallpaperflare.com
Salzburg - Austria - Europe - Road Trip - pixabay.com
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7
Salzburg
- Linz
Distance 164 km
Driving time 2.9 h
Pace: modest
42.7 kWh
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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!
Linz - Austria - Europe - Road Trip - pixabay.com
Linz - Austria - Europe - Road Trip - www.needpix.com
Linz - Austria - Europe - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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8
Linz
- Krems an der Donau
Distance 146 km
Driving time 2.9 h
Pace: modest
38.0 kWh
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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!
Krems an der Donau - Austria - Europe - Road Trip - www.needpix.com
Krems an der Donau - Austria - Europe - Road Trip - www.goodfreephotos.com
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9
Krems an der Donau
- Vienna
Distance 115 km
Driving time 2.1 h
Pace: modest
29.9 kWh
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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 - Austria - Europe - Road Trip - pixabay.com
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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
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Start:
Vienna
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End:
Vienna
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Distance:
1,447 km
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Stay:
11 days
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Getting there:
Vienna International Airport (VIE)
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When to drive:
May, June, July, August, September
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
Embark on a captivating journey with the Austria Road Trip, a 1,454km odyssey that immerses you in the heart of Austria's stunning landscapes and rich history. Spanning 11 days, the route begins in the vibrant capital of Vienna, famous for its imperial palaces and cultural flair, and meanders through diverse cities such as Graz, Salzburg, and Innsbruck, each offering its unique allure.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
This meticulously crafted itinerary leads you to illustrious destinations such as Salzburg, the birthplace of Mozart, boasting a UNESCO-listed historic center that is a baroque masterpiece. Explore Graz, Austria's second-largest city, known for its unique blend of Renaissance and contemporary architecture. Venture into the alpine charm of Innsbruck, nestled in the Tyrol region with its stunning mountain backdrop. A highlight is the fairy-tale-like Hallstatt-Dachstein/Salzkammergut Cultural Landscape, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that presents a perfect postcard image with its iconic lake views and salt mine history. Additionally, the alpine paradise of Zell am See offers a picturesque setting for outdoor enthusiasts.
Best Time to Go:
The best time for this road trip is during the warmer months from April to October when Austria blooms with cultural festivals, outdoor activities, and the full splendor of its natural landscapes. This period provides an optimal climate for exploring the abundant vineyards, mountain trails, and clear lakes.
Potential Risks:
Austria's roads are renowned for their safety and maintenance; however, road trippers should be mindful of varying weather conditions, especially in mountainous areas. Ensure you are equipped with the right vehicle equipment and are aware of potential border crossings within the Schengen Area, carrying essential documents like a valid passport and international driving permit if required.
Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:
- Austria has an extensive network of `Autobahns` and `Bundesstraßen` which are known for their quality, though a vignette or toll sticker is required for highway travel.
- Austria is known for its `Gasthäuser` (guest houses) and `Zimmer frei` (rooms available) signs, offering authentic and cozy accommodation options along your journey.
- The Grossglockner High Alpine Road, while not directly on the route, is an iconic detour that offers breathtaking views of Austria's highest peak.
- The country's culinary delights, from Wiener Schnitzel to Apfelstrudel, can be enjoyed in small-town inns and city restaurants alike, offering a taste of Austria's regional specialties.
A good choice for:
The Austria Road Trip is an unparalleled adventure that weaves through the cultural tapestry and natural grandeur of this European gem. It's a blend of discovery, relaxation, and indulgence that promises to leave Roadtrippers with a trove of cherished memories and stories to tell.
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