The beautiful east Alpine country of Austria is one of the prettiest in Central Europe. Use our Austria itinerary 7 days to plan your trip in an easy way and make the most of your visit. From cities and villages to lakes and mountains, Austria has so much variety to offers its visitors.
Austria is a stunning country bursting with history and culture. From Vienna’s imperial architecture to sprawling vineyards to snowy alpine peaks to world-class opera and ballet, Austria has something for everyone.
Whether you’re backpacking around the country or just traveling here on a short trip, Austria has a lot to offer.
When most people think of Austria, they think of rolling hills, skiing, Christmas markets, and The Sound of Music. And while the country does have all of this, it also has so much more!
For music lovers, it’s the home of Mozart. For foodies, it’s home to the Wienerschnitzel. For outdoor lovers, you can paraglide, raft, and hike. No matter what your love is, Austria likely has something just for you.
The minute you arrive, you the country’s charming villages will take you by surprise and have you feeling like you stepped into a Disney fairytale.
WHAT TO EXPECT?
Language: The official language of Austria is Austrian German though you might run into locals speaking Alemmanic or Austro-Bavarian depending on the location.
Currency: The official currency of Austria is the Euro (EUR).
Credit Cards & ATMs: To get the best exchange rate in Austria, it’s wise to use your credit card whenever you get the chance. There’s typically no service charge and are widely accepted throughout the country. If you need some Euros, you will find that ATMs are very prevalent in Austria, even in smaller towns. They are also likely linked to your bank at home so you shouldn’t run into any issues.
Plugs: In Austria, the plugs are type F, the standard voltage is 230 V, and the standard frequency is 50 Hz. I recommend buying a universal adapter (make sure it has surge protection) and using a converter for hair dryers and hot tools.
Safety: Austria is an extremely safe country, with the most dangerous crimes being pickpocketing and petty theft. As long as you practice common sense and take precautions, you won’t have any problems during your visit.
Best Time To Visit
Austria is a country with a wide variety of weather, so deciding on when to visit all depends on the activities you want to partake in. Overall, the best time to visit Austria is between April and May and September and October.
During the spring, you might be met with a rain shower or two. But it’s still a great time to wander around Vienna or Hofburg since the tourist season is just beginning. Come fall, and the mountains become covered in red and golden hues as the leaves change, making it one of the best times to hike.
Summer (June through August) is high season meaning both crowds and prices have doubled since spring. The heat can be felt, especially near the lakes, so it’s a wonderful time to take a dip. This is also the season of the Salzburg Festival, Vienna Festival, and the Rainbow Parade!
Winter in Austria can be quite chilly, but there’s something spectacular about walking around the Vienna Christmas market. If you’re an avid skier, this is the time to go skiing in the Austrian Alps before relaxing at one of the ski resorts.
Day 1 – Vienna – Grand Palaces of Vienna
Vienna is a lesson in imperial history, one where the Hapsburg monarchy is ever so present and with your first day in the capital of Austria, you’ll be going all-out by seeing some of the most important residences that’ll rival most other cities in Europe.
The Austrian capital, situated on the banks of the Danube, is considered the cultural capital of Europe.
The Hofburg Palace is located in the old town of Vienna or the inner city (inner Stadt – 1st district in Vienna) and it was the imperial seat of the Hapsburg Dynasty in Austria.
The palace is steeped in luxury and royalty. There is a lot of history that has happened in this palace and has served as the prime residence for Empress Maria Theresa, Emperor Franz II, and, for a while, even the German Emperor.
Along with the Hofburg Palace building, there is the Imperial Chapel (Burgkapelle), the Natural History Museum (Naturhistorisches Museum), the Austrian National Library, and the Spanish Riding School at the complex.
There is also a museum named Sisi Museum at the palace as well and it’s worth a visit. Sisi or Elisabeth was the Empress of Austria. She has gone down in history as an empress of eternal youthfulness and beauty.
After sightseeing at the Hofburg, head to the St Stephen’s Cathedral. The cathedral is one of Vienna’s most iconic landmarks. Dating back to over 300 years, the cathedral is decorated with Baroque altarpieces in the name of St. Stephen, the first martyr of Christendom.
Finish the day with dinner and drinks (may be a little shopping) at the Graben Vienna. Graben is an upscale and trendy shopping street, and you will find cafes and restaurants for a meal.
Vienna City Card for 1 to 3 days is worth it if you are not renting a car. This savings card allows you to use public transportation for free in Vienna and gives you discounted tickets to over 210 attractions.
How to get from/to Vienna International Airport
By Train
City Airport Train (CAT)
The CAT will take you directly from the airport to the city center with no stops along the way. The train runs from 06:00-23:30 and trains leave the airport every half hour, at 6 and 36 minutes past the hour arriving at WIEN MITTE. Once you collect your bags, follow the green CAT signs. Tickets can be purchased online or in-person at the CAT terminal.
Time: 16 minutes
Cost: 11 EUR
S7 Commuter Train
Running on the same tracks as the CAT, the S7 Schnellbahn takes a few minutes longer, costs a few euro less, but will get you to the same destination of WIEN MITTE. After you get your bags, follow the Schnellbahn signs (an ‘S’ in a circle). You can purchase tickets from the machines at the top of the escalator and you can pay by cash or card. Be sure to validate your ticket when purchasing to avoid issues on board the train. Get on the train that leaves in the direction of ‘Floridsdorf.’ Trains run daily at 17 and 42 minutes past the hour and run between 04:00 and midnight.
Time: 26 minutes
Cost: 4 EUR
ÖBB Railjet
Railjets depart every thirty minutes from the airport to Vienna Main Station or Wein Meidling Station and run between 06:33 to 11:03 daily.
Time: Vienna Main- 15 minutes
Wein Meidling- 30 minutes
Cost: 4.20 EUR
Bus
Vienna Airport Lines
Another airport transportation option is bus service through Vienna Airport Lines. It’s cheaper than the CAT and faster than the S7. There are three lines that offer service to different locations throughout the city. After you pick up your bags, follow the signs for buses. Buses run from 04:50-00:20 and depart every 30 minutes at 20 and 50 minutes past the hour. Purchase tickets from the driver on the bus.
Time: 22 minutes
Cost: 8 EUR
Taxi
If you’re not on a budget, taking a taxi is the most convenient way to get from the airport to your destination. Just past the baggage claim, out the main doors, taxis are lined up. Some taxis do accept card, but be prepared with euro just in case.
Time: 20 minutes
Cost: 30-40 EUR
Private Airport Transfer
Coming in at about the same price as a taxi, private airport transfer can be a much more comfortable and relaxed way to get from the airport to the city center. You can pre-book online and your driver will be waiting for you as you make your way out to the baggage claim area.
Time: 20 minutes
Cost: From 30 EUR
Where to Stay in Vienna?
Boutique Hotel am Stephansplatz is a 4 star boutique hotel in the heart of the city. All old town attractions are within walking distance from here. Book your stay here
Another option is to stay at the Singerstrasse21/25. This is a fuss-free hotel, located in the central district of Vienna and offering views of the St Stephen’s Cathedral. Book your stay here
Outside of the inner city, you can stay at the Trend Austria Hotel. From here you can access the old town via the Rathaus Underground Station (public transportation). Book your stay here
Day 2: Explore Vienna’s iconic palaces
In Vienna alone, you will explore 3 (Hofburg Palace on day one and the other two on day two).
Many of Austria’s castles and palaces were created during the Habsburg reign.
Begin your sightseeing itinerary with a visit to the Schonbrunn Palace, which is one of the most popular tourist spots in Vienna. This is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Schonbrunn Palace was built in the early 18th century and it reflects the changing styles and interests of the Hapsburg dynasty. The palace is massive with over 1440 rooms!
After the Schönbrunn Palace, head to the Belvedere Palace.
Belvedere Palace is another historical complex in Vienna. It comprises two Baroque palaces – the Orangery and the Palace Stables, which is set on an expansive Baroque park on the south-eastern edge of its centre. The palaces date back to the 18th century.
For the evening, you can either check out the Vienna State Opera or Wiener Staatsoper and enjoy a concert with dinner.
Not into concerts? Head to the Prater amusement park aka Wiener Riesenrad, or Riesenrad, and ride the historic ferris wheel and soak in city views in the evening!
Day 3: Day trip to Wachau + Lower Danube Valley from Vienna
On day 3 of the Austria itinerary, head to the lower Danube Valley on a day trip. Wachau Valley is known for its vineyards, ancient ruins, Benedictine Abbey, and the mesmerizing Danube River.
Travel time is 1.50 hours by road or train. You can also book a full day tour with round transportation.
The Wachau Valley is the Danube valley. Geographically it is located between the cities of Melk and Krems in Lower Austria. A sightseeing cruise is a nice way to check out the attractions from the comfort for a ferry on the Danube.
This valley is filled with hills, river valley views and sprinkled with vineyards and castles.
In Wachau, visit the Melk Abbey and the ancient ruins in Melk and Dürnstein, including the Aggstein Castle located on a hill.
Melk Abbey is a Benedictine abbey located in Melk. The setting of the abbey on a hill overlooking the Danube river makes it one of the most picturesque places in Austria. The abbey is painted/decorated in bright yellow color. It contains the tomb of Saint Coloman of Stockerau and many members of the royal family.
The city of Dürnstein is located in the Wachau valley. This is where you will find the ruins of Dürnstein Castle. This castle was built in the 12th century, and was later demolished in the 17th century by the Swedes under General Torstenson.
Day 4: Salzburg
From Vienna, make your way to Salzburg. Salzburg is known for its hilltop fortress, ‘Sound of Music’ locations, epic views of the eastern Alps and of course the remnants of Mozart.
Train takes about 2.50 hours to reach Salzburg from Vienna. The train station is located very close to the old town, so once you arrive check into your hotel, and then get ready to explore. If you are driving, it will take about 3 to 4 hours.
On day one of the Salzburg itinerary, check off a few quick and easy attractions in old town.
Salzburg was the birthplace of Mozart. And at the city centre you can check out the Mozart Square dedicated to the composer. In and around the square, you will find souvenir stores, the Salzburg information center, and other shops.
From the square, head to the Mozart house (House no 9), located a few blocks away. The house was the residence of Mozart and his immediate family, and it has his personal items, and history and information about his life – on display for visitors to see.
Depending on your arrival time in Salzburg, we recommend going on a sightseeing cruise on the Salzach River. The river Salzach flows through the city, and you can comfortably check out the attractions of Salzburg from boat/ferry.
Hellbrunn Palace is a Baroque villa, dating back to the early 17th century. It was built by Markus Sittikus von Hohenems, who was the Prince-Archbishop of Salzburg.
In the evening, enjoy a nice stroll at the Getreidegasse. Getreidegasse, literally means, ‘grain alley’. This is a busy shopping street in the Altstadt or old town of Salzburg.
The entire lane is filled with cute shops, chocolatiers and cafes and is beautifully decorated with Christmas symbols. Imagine this lane at Christmas time – it looks beautiful and decorations and festive cheer in the air.
Where to stay in Salzburg?
Star Inn Hotel Premium Salzburg Gablerbräu, by Quality is a good value accommodation located close to the Altstadt. Check out pictures here
Radisson Blu Hotel Altstadt, Salzburg is another great option. It is a 5 star property housed in a building dating to the 14th century. Check prices here
Day 5: Explore more of Salzburg
The landscape and the vibes in Salzburg are of a small village, which is kind of nice – there are fortresses, tons of greenery, hills and of course the river flowing through the old town.
In the old town, visit the beautiful Mirabell Gardens. These gardens along with the palace grounds are a part of the Historic Centre of the City of Salzburg UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Many of the scenes of the movie ‘Sound of Music’ were shot at the Mirabell Gardens, and they are a part of the Mirabell Palace complex.
At the Salzburg old town you must also check out the Salzburg Cathedral, and other historical sites.
After the old town tour, hop on a bus ride to check out the Sound of Music movie locations. If you didn’t know, many of the cinematic scenes were shot in Salzburg, and you can experience the same magic live, by touring the movie locations.
From epic locations to capturing the best Instagrammable shots, you will love this tour.
This tour commences at the old town and includes a round trip transportation. So after the tour you will be back at the Altstadt. Stop for lunch and thereafter head to the Hohensalzburg Fortress.
Hohensalzburg Fortress is the iconic landmark of Salzburg. It was built by an archbishop to protect the city from enemies in the 11th century. The fortress is located atop the Festungsberg. You can either hike or take a funicular to reach the top of the fortress.
Hohensalzburg is the largest medieval castle in Europe. The complex is home to museums, chapels, and amazing city views from the top.
There is a nice restaurant at the fortress grounds. It is a nice place to enjoy a cup of coffee and sachertorte, whilst taking in the views of the (eastern) Alps.
Day 6: Travel from Salzburg to Hallstatt Austria on a day trip
Hallstatt is one of the oldest and beautiful settlements in Europe. This Alpine village is located on Lake Hallstatt’s western shore in Austria’s mountainous Salzkammergut region.
Hallstatt is a UNESCO heritage site and an important Austrian tourist attraction so planning your trip in advance is key. Peak seasons are super crowded here.
Hallstatt makes for an easy day trip from Salzburg. If you are road tripping in Austria, you can surely drive to Halsttat by car, but parking is a pain. So we recommend using public transportation (bus and train take 2 to 2.50 hours each one way), or opt for a day tour.
Most day tours to Hallstatt are for 4 to 6 hours, and are half day tours. Tours will give you 2.5 hours to take in the sights.
The route will take you through a number of charming villages, as you listen to an introduction to Hallstatt and the Salzkammergut. If you wish to do the Hallstatt Skywalk, the guide will collect the money for the ticket on the bus.
On arrival in Hallstatt you might begin your visit with a mountain train ride up to the entrance of the world’s oldest salt mines (though the tour does not visit the mine itself), where you can admire the views down onto Hallstatt.
Enjoy a leisurely walk along the lake and thereafter visit one of the oldest salt mines. This salt mine can be only explored via guided tour, and it takes about 70 minutes. (Tickets booked on their website. This is different from the 5 hour tour).
Located near the salt mine is the World Heritage SkyWalk. The observation platform sits 350 metres over the colorful houses of Hallstatt offering panoramic views of the entire Dachstein Salzkammergut region.
If you have additional time, visit the Bone House behind the Catholic church. The Hallstatt Ossuary (Charnel House/Bone House) is home to over 2100 skulls placed inside a small cave.
Other activities in Hallstatt include boating on the lake, and exploring Dachstein Krippenstein. You can hike there or hop on a funicular ride to get to the top to soak in views of the Alps.
Day 7: Travel from Salzburg to Innsbruck
On your final day of 7 days in Austria itinerary, head to Innsbruck. Because you only have one day, this will be a short day trip on this visit.
The quickest way to reach Innsbruck from Salzburg is by train. Trains cost about 28€ – 45€ and it is an hour and 50 minute train ride, connecting Salzburg Hbf and arriving at Innsbruck Hbf.
Innsbruck is the capital city of Austria’s western state of Tyrol. The city is tucked away in the Alps, and is well known as a ski resort and Alpine town. Other than winter activities, Innsbruck is also known for its Imperial and modern architecture, and it’s cute old town.
The Old Town (Altstadt) is a must visit on your day trip. Explore the pretty lanes (Moat), and live the city’s history of 800 years. This is a photographer’s dream with narrow house-fronts, colorful doorways, and windows, and the prettiest medieval houses.
You can add a quick walking tour of the old town, and check out the Baroque Helblinghaus, known for its stucco façade. Also located nearby are the 16th-century Golden Eagle (Goldener Adler), and the 57-meter-high Stadtturm (watchtower). This watchtower was built in the 14th century along with the adjoining Old Rathaus and it offers epic views of the Old Town.
The Nordkette funicular ride is another option to soak in views. This funicular or cable car takes tourists skiing in winter and hiking or mountaineering in warmer months, to the mountains (at 2,300 metres high).
Innsbruck is famous for hosting two Winter Olympic Games (1964, and 1976). Bergisel Ski Jump is home to a 26,000 capacity stadium used in the Olympics, and even today (located in Bergisel).
Swarovski Crystal Worlds Innsbruck Store is a magical place with art and ancient history.
If you love scenic road trips, swap your 7 day itinerary for a drive on the Grossglockner High Alpine road. It connects Bruck in the state of Salzburg with Heiligenblut in Carinthia via Fuscher Törl and Hochtor Pass at 2,504 metres, making it one of the gorgeous routes in the world.
It will take you 4 hours to complete the trip, but we recommend stops to photograph and rest along the way.
Austria Travel Costs
Accommodation – Hostel dorms are your cheapest accommodation option in Austria, with prices starting around 20-27 EUR per night for a 6-8 bed dorm. For a private room, expect to pay at least 50 EUR. Free Wi-Fi is standard and many hostels have self-catering facilities.
For anyone traveling with a tent, camping is available around the country. There are a few hundred campgrounds scattered around, costing around 20 EUR per night for two people and a tent. These plots usually do not include electricity.
Two-star budget hotels range from 50-70 EUR per night for a double or twin. Airbnb is another great budget option, with private accommodation starting at 40 EUR per night. For an entire home or apartment, expect to pay at least 50 EUR per night (though prices average almost double that).
Food – Austrian cuisine is a meat-oriented one, with soups, stews, and pastries rounding things out. Popular dishes include rindsuppe (beef soup), smoked meat with sauerkraut, wiener schnitzel, strudel, and tafelspitz (beef boiled in broth).
A typical inexpensive restaurant meal of traditional cuisine costs around 10 EUR. Expect to pay at least 25 EUR for a three-course meal at a mid-range restaurant.
If you’re on a budget, stick to eating at the local markets where you can find a great selection of traditional Austrian food (like schnitzel, goulash, sausages, and potatoes) as well as Asian, Greek, and Middle Eastern dishes for around 10-14 EUR. Fast food (think McDonald’s) costs around 8 EUR for a combo meal. A large pizza is around 20 EUR while Chinese food is 10-15 EUR for a main dish.
A beer at the bar costs around 4 EUR while a latte/cappuccino costs 3.50 EUR. Bottled water is 2 EUR.
If you are planning to cook your own food, a week’s worth of groceries costs between 40-50 EUR for basic staples like rice, pasta, vegetables, and some meat.
Activities – Austria is a mecca for outdoor adventures. Hiking trails are free, and bike rentals cost around 15 EUR for a half day. While ticket prices will vary, expect to pay at least 20-50 EUR for a standard ticket to the opera or ballet. If winter sports are your preference, lift passes cost around 50 EUR per day while rentals will cost around 50 EUR. Admission to historic palaces is usually 16-24 EUR.
That's all for today! I hope you liked this post. More European itineraries are on the way!
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