How to Plan the Ultimate Austria Road Trip: An Itinerary Guide
Alright, let's talk about Austria. If you've ever dreamt of driving through a real-life fairytale, this is it. We're talking epic mountain passes, charming villages that look like they're straight out of a postcard, & sparkling blue lakes. Honestly, a road trip is THE best way to experience this country. It gives you the freedom to stop whenever you see something amazing, which, trust me, will be often.
I've spent a ton of time exploring Austria's nooks & crannies, & I've put together this guide to help you plan the ultimate road trip. We'll cover everything from the must-see spots to some hidden gems you won't want to miss. So, buckle up, because this is going to be an adventure.
Why a Road Trip in Austria is a MUST
First off, why a road trip? Simple. Austria is a country that's meant to be seen from the road. The drives themselves are a huge part of the experience. The Grossglockner High Alpine Road, for example, is one of the most famous scenic drives in the world for a reason. Winding through the heart of the Austrian Alps, it's a journey you'll never forget.
But it's not just about the big, famous roads. It's about the freedom to get lost. To take a random turn & discover a tiny village with a cozy cafe, or a hidden lake that's not in any of the guidebooks. That's the magic of a road trip, & Austria is the perfect place for it.
Best Time to Go
Honestly, Austria is beautiful year-round, but for a road trip, the best time is from late spring to early autumn (May to October). The weather is generally good, the mountain passes are open, & the landscape is lush & green. Summer (July & August) is peak season, so expect more crowds & higher prices. If you can, aim for the shoulder seasons (May-June or September-October). You'll get pleasant weather, fewer people, & some beautiful fall colors in September.
Winter road trips are possible, but be prepared for snow & ice, especially in the mountains. Many of the high alpine roads will be closed, so you'll need to stick to the main highways.
The Ultimate 10-Day Austria Road Trip Itinerary
This itinerary is a classic for a reason. It covers some of the most iconic spots in Austria, giving you a perfect mix of city life, charming villages, & breathtaking nature. We'll start in Vienna & end in Salzburg, but you can easily reverse it if that works better for your travel plans.
Day 1-2: Vienna
Welcome to Vienna! This city is a stunner, with its grand palaces, historic architecture, & vibrant cultural scene. You'll want at least two full days to soak it all in.
What to See & Do:
- Schönbrunn Palace: This former imperial summer residence is a must-see. The palace itself is incredible, & the gardens are perfect for a long stroll.
- St. Stephen's Cathedral: You can't miss this Gothic masterpiece in the heart of the city. Climb the south tower for some amazing views.
- The Hofburg: This sprawling palace complex was the former residence of the Habsburg emperors. It's now home to several museums, including the Sisi Museum & the Imperial Apartments.
- Belvedere Palace: Another stunning palace, the Belvedere is now an art museum with an impressive collection, including Gustav Klimt's "The Kiss."
- Vienna State Opera: Even if you don't see a show, the building itself is worth a visit. You can take a guided tour to see the magnificent interior.
Where to Eat: Vienna is famous for its coffee houses, so be sure to stop for a slice of Sachertorte & a Melange (a Viennese coffee). For a more traditional meal, head to a "Beisl" (a Viennese bistro) for some Wiener Schnitzel.
Parking in Vienna: Let's be real, parking in a big city like Vienna can be a nightmare. This is where a service like Prked can be a lifesaver. You can find & book a private parking spot in someone's driveway or garage, which is often cheaper & more convenient than a public garage. It's a great way to save yourself a headache & get your trip started on the right foot.
Day 3: Wachau Valley & Admont Abbey
Time to hit the road! Our first stop is the Wachau Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning scenery, vineyards, & charming towns.
Wachau Valley: Take a scenic drive along the Danube River, stopping in towns like Dürnstein (with its famous blue church tower) & Melk (home to the magnificent Melk Abbey). If you're a wine lover, this is your paradise. The region is famous for its Riesling & Grüner Veltliner wines.
Admont Abbey Library: A bit of a detour, but SO worth it. This is the largest monastic library in the world, & it's absolutely breathtaking. It feels like you've stepped into a scene from "Beauty & the Beast."
From Admont, we'll head towards Hallstatt, where we'll spend the night.
Day 4: Hallstatt
Get ready for some serious postcard-perfect views. Hallstatt is one of the most photographed villages in the world, & for good reason. It's a tiny village nestled between a crystal-clear lake & towering mountains.
Day 5: The Lake District (Salzkammergut) & a Side of Adventure
Today is all about exploring the stunning Salzkammergut region, also known as the Austrian Lake District. We're talking turquoise lakes, lush green meadows, & dramatic mountain peaks.
Dachstein Giant Ice Cave & 5 Fingers: Head up the Dachstein Krippenstein cable car for two incredible experiences. The Giant Ice Cave is a magical world of frozen waterfalls & ice sculptures, while the 5 Fingers viewing platform offers some of the most thrilling views in the Alps.
Gosauseen: These two stunning alpine lakes are a bit of a hidden gem. The water is crystal clear, & the views of the Dachstein glacier are simply unbeatable. It's the perfect spot for a peaceful walk or a picnic.
After a day of exploring, we'll make our way to Salzburg, the birthplace of Mozart.
Day 6: Salzburg
Salzburg is a city that's bursting with music, history, & charm. It's also a must-visit for any "The Sound of Music" fans, as many of the film's iconic scenes were shot here.
What to See & Do:
- Hohensalzburg Fortress: Take the funicular up to this massive fortress for panoramic views of the city & the surrounding Alps. It's one of the largest fully preserved castles in Europe.
- Mozart's Birthplace & Residence: Step back in time & learn about the life of the world's most famous composer.
- Mirabell Palace & Gardens: These beautiful gardens were a filming location for "The Sound of Music," & they're the perfect place for a relaxing stroll.
- Salzburg's Old Town (Altstadt): A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Old Town is a maze of narrow streets, charming squares, & beautiful architecture.
Parking in Salzburg: Just like in Vienna, parking in Salzburg can be a challenge. Again, Prked can be a great option here. Finding a private parking spot can save you a lot of time & money, leaving you with more to spend on Mozartkugel (the famous chocolate-marzipan treats).
Day 7: Berchtesgaden & Eagle's Nest (A Day Trip to Germany)
Just a short drive from Salzburg is the Berchtesgaden National Park in Germany. It's an easy day trip & offers some of the most spectacular scenery in the Alps.
Eagle's Nest (Kehlsteinhaus): Perched high on a mountain peak, the Eagle's Nest was a former Nazi retreat. Today, it's a restaurant with some of the most incredible 360-degree views you'll ever see.
Königssee: This emerald-green lake is often called the most beautiful lake in Germany. Take a boat trip to the St. Bartholomä church & enjoy the stunning scenery.
Day 8: Grossglockner High Alpine Road
Get ready for the drive of a lifetime. The Grossglockner High Alpine Road is a masterpiece of engineering, winding its way through the heart of the Hohe Tauern National Park.
The Drive: The road is about 48 kilometers long & has 36 hairpin bends. Take your time, pull over at the numerous viewpoints, & just soak in the incredible scenery.
Kaiser-Franz-Josefs-Höhe: This is the main viewpoint on the road, offering stunning views of the Grossglockner (Austria's highest mountain) & the Pasterze glacier.
A Note on the Grossglockner: The road is only open from May to November, & there's a toll to drive it. It's worth every penny.
Day 9: Zell am See & Kaprun
After the thrilling drive, it's time to relax in the charming lakeside town of Zell am See.
Zell am See: This beautiful town is located on the shores of Lake Zell, with the Kitzsteinhorn glacier in the background. You can go for a swim, take a boat trip on the lake, or just relax by the water.
Kitzsteinhorn Glacier: Take the cable car up to the "Top of Salzburg" viewing platform for some incredible views of the surrounding peaks. You can even ski on the glacier in the summer!
Sigmund Thun Gorge: A short drive from Kaprun is this beautiful gorge, where you can walk on wooden boardwalks through the narrow canyon.
Day 10: Innsbruck
Our final stop is Innsbruck, the capital of the Alps. This colorful city is surrounded by mountains, offering a unique blend of urban life & outdoor adventure.
- What to See & Do:
- The Golden Roof (Goldenes Dachl): This famous landmark in the Old Town is adorned with 2,657 fire-gilded copper tiles.
- Nordkette Cable Car: Take the cable car from the city center right up into the mountains for some incredible hiking & breathtaking views.
- Swarovski Crystal Worlds: Just a short drive from Innsbruck is this unique museum & art installation dedicated to Swarovski crystals. It's a bit quirky, but definitely memorable.
From Innsbruck, you can either fly home or make the drive back to Vienna.
Driving in Austria: What You Need to Know
Driving in Austria is generally a pleasant experience. The roads are well-maintained, & the scenery is, of course, amazing. But there are a few things you need to know:
- Vignette: To drive on Austria's motorways & expressways, you'll need a "vignette" (a toll sticker). You can buy one at gas stations & border crossings. Make sure you get one before you hit the highway, as the fines for not having one are steep.
- Speed Limits: The speed limit on motorways is 130 km/h (80 mph), on other roads it's 100 km/h (62 mph), & in towns & villages it's 50 km/h (31 mph).
- Mountain Driving: If you're not used to driving in the mountains, take it slow. Use a lower gear when going downhill to save your brakes, & be aware of sharp turns & narrow roads.
- Parking: As I've mentioned, parking in the cities can be tricky. Look for "Kurzparkzonen" (short-term parking zones), where you'll need to use a prepaid parking voucher. Or, to make things easier, use a service like Prked to book a private spot in advance.
Making it Your Own
This itinerary is just a suggestion, of course. The beauty of a road trip is that you can customize it to your own interests. If you're a big hiker, you might want to spend more time in the Alps. If you're a history buff, you could add a few more cities to your itinerary.
And what about earning some extra cash for your trip? If you have an empty driveway or garage back home, you could list it on Prked & make some passive income while you're away. It's a pretty cool way to help fund your adventures.
Final Thoughts
An Austria road trip is an experience you'll never forget. It's a country that's full of surprises, with something new & beautiful to discover around every corner. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your adventure, & get ready to be amazed.
Hope this was helpful! Let me know what you think, & if you have any other tips for an Austria road trip, share them in the comments below. Happy travels
