A 2-Week Austria Road Trip Itinerary for Explorers

Ready to fall in love with Austria? This 2-week itinerary whisks you through charming cities, breathtaking mountain landscapes, and picture-perfect villages. Get your cameras charged, your hiking boots laced, and your schnitzel appetite prepped because Austria awaits!

Your Austrian adventure begins in the capital city, Vienna. Immerse yourself in the city's rich history and architectural wonders. Explore the magnificent Schönbrunn Palace, once the Habsburg summer residence. Wander through the sprawling Hofburg Palace, which houses museums and the famous Spanish Riding School. Don't miss a chance to see the Vienna State Opera, a stunning landmark and one of the world's premier opera houses.

Distance: 91.4 km (56.8 mi) Vienna to Wachau Valley

Travel Time: 1 hour and 9 minutes

Time to trade the cityscapes for rolling vineyards! Take a day trip to the Wachau Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Nestled along the Danube River, this region boasts charming towns, medieval castles perched on cliffs, and delicious Austrian wines. Explore the town of Dürnstein with its blue and white houses, or visit the magnificent Melk Abbey, a Benedictine monastery overlooking the valley. Wine enthusiasts can sample local wines at a winery or enjoy a scenic boat cruise along the Danube, soaking in the picturesque landscapes.

Distance: 291.3 km (181 mi) Wachau Valley to Filzmoos

Travel Time: 3 hours and 38 minutes

Calling all nature lovers! Head to Filzmoos, a charming village nestled amidst the Dachstein Mountains. This car-free resort town offers stunning scenery and a relaxed atmosphere. Hike through lush meadows, breathe in the crisp mountain air, and marvel at the majestic Dachstein peaks. In the winter, Filzmoos transforms into a winter wonderland, perfect for skiing and snowboarding. If you're feeling adventurous, opt for a thrilling ride on the Dachstein Gletscherbahn, a cable car that takes you up to a glacier at 1,000 meters in just six minutes!

Distance: varies depending on the starting point

Travel Time: varies depending on the starting point

Note: Since Grossglockner High Alpine Road is a scenic route, it's not possible to directly include it as a stop. The distance and travel time will depend on where you enter from Filzmoos.

Get ready for a scenic drive unlike any other! Buckle up on the Grossglockner High Alpine Road, one of Austria's most iconic experiences. This 48-kilometer route winds through the Hohe Tauern National Park, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Stop at designated viewpoints to capture panoramic vistas of glaciers, waterfalls, and snow-capped peaks. Keep an eye out for marmots sunning themselves on rocks, and be sure to bring warm clothes, as temperatures can drop at higher altitudes.

Distance: 162.1 km (101 mi) Filzmoos to Mayrhofen

Travel Time: 2 hours and 36 minutes

Mayrhofen is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Nestled in the Zillertal Alps, this lively resort town offers something for everyone. Hike through scenic trails, conquer challenging mountain bike routes, or try white-water rafting on the rushing Inn River. In winter, Mayrhofen transforms into a top ski destination, with slopes catering to all skill levels. Take a ride on the Penken cable car, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Explore Mayrhofen's lively après-ski scene in the evenings, or enjoy a traditional Austrian meal in a cozy restaurant.

Distance: 83.7 km (52 mi) Mayrhofen to Lake Achensee

Travel Time: 1 hour and 14 minutes

Time for a relaxing escape! Head to Lake Achensee, a stunning turquoise lake surrounded by lush forests and majestic mountains. Often referred to as the "Sea of Tyrol," this picturesque spot offers a variety of activities. Go for a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters, rent a boat and explore the lake, or simply relax on the shores and soak in the peaceful atmosphere. For a touch of history, visit the medieval ruins of Ehrenberg Castle, offering stunning views of the lake and surrounding valleys.

Distance: 34.2 km (21.2 mi) Lake Achensee to Ehrwald

Travel Time: 42 minutes

Next stop, Ehrwald! This charming village is nestled at the foot of the Zugspitze, Germany's highest peak. Hike or take a cable car up the Zugspitze for breathtaking panoramic views. Explore the Ehrwalder Alm, a lush alpine meadow with a network of hiking and biking trails. In the winter, Ehrwald becomes a popular ski resort, offering slopes for all skill levels. For a unique experience, visit the Ehrwald Seebensee, a beautiful lake perfect for swimming, paddleboarding, or simply enjoying the scenery.

Distance: 39.2 km (24.3 mi) Ehrwald to Lech am Arlberg

Travel Time: 48 minutes

Looking for a touch of luxury? Lech am Arlberg is a renowned ski resort town known for its upscale atmosphere and breathtaking scenery. Explore the charming village center with its designer shops and luxurious hotels. In the winter, Lech transforms into a winter wonderland with perfectly groomed slopes and state-of-the-art ski facilities. During summer, enjoy hiking, biking, and exploring the surrounding mountains. In the evenings, indulge in fine dining at Michelin-starred restaurants or relax in a luxurious spa, pampering yourself with rejuvenating treatments after exploring the mountains.

Distance: 5.6 km (3.5 mi) Lech am Arlberg to Brand

Travel Time: 11 minutes (public transport may take longer)

Take a break from the luxurious vibes of Lech and head to Brand's neighboring village. This charming town offers a more traditional Austrian experience with a relaxed atmosphere. Hike through rolling hills and meadows, explore traditional wooden houses, and soak in the laid-back charm. In the winter, Brand offers a variety of winter sports activities, including skiing, snowboarding, and cross-country skiing. For a unique experience, visit the Lünersee, a beautiful alpine lake nestled amidst a dramatic mountain backdrop.

Distance: 57.3 km (35.6 mi) Brand to Innsbruck

Travel Time: 54 minutes

Time for a city break! Innsbruck, the capital of Tyrol, is a vibrant city surrounded by stunning mountains. Explore the historic city center with its colorful buildings and charming squares. Visit the Golden Roof, a magnificent balcony adorned with gilded copper tiles. History buffs can explore the Imperial Palace, a former Habsburg residence, or learn about the Winter Olympics held in Innsbruck in 1964 and 1976. Ride on the Hungerburg Funicular, a funicular railway that ascends the Nordkette mountain range for stunning panoramic views. Enjoy the lively atmosphere in Innsbruck's bars and restaurants in the evenings.

Distance: 145.2 km (90.2 mi) Innsbruck to Salzburg

Travel Time: 1 hour and 43 minutes

Distance: 477.1 km (296.5 mi) Innsbruck to Vienna

Travel Time: 5 hours and 11 minutes

For your final day, you have two exciting options. If you need more of the capital's charm, head back to Vienna and spend your last day exploring hidden gems or revisiting your favorite spots. Take a waltz lesson, indulge in some delectable pastries at a Viennese cafe, or visit the Schönbrunn Zoo, one of the oldest zoos in the world. Enjoy a farewell dinner at a traditional Heuriger, a wine tavern serving local wines and Austrian specialties.

Salzburg, Mozart's birthplace, is a city overflowing with music and history. Explore the Mirabell Palace and its stunning gardens, or visit the Hohensalzburg Fortress, a majestic fortress overlooking the city. Music lovers can visit Mozart's birthplace or attend a classical music concert in the historic Salzburg Cathedral.

Take the Festungsbahn funicular up the Mönchsberg mountain for stunning panoramic views. In the evenings, catch a performance at the world-famous Salzburg Festival, held each summer for five weeks starting in late July (if it coincides with your visit), or enjoy a delicious Austrian meal in a cozy restaurant.

Bonus Tip: Consider purchasing the Austria National Park Card for discounted entry to multiple national parks and museums throughout your trip.

To ensure a comfortable and enjoyable adventure in Austria, here's a checklist of essential items to pack:

• Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots
• Warm clothes for higher altitudes, even in summer
• Rain gear
• Swimsuit (if planning to swim in lakes)
• Sunscreen and sunglasses
• Adaptor plug for your electronic devices

Austria offers a unique blend of culture, food, and outdoor activities. Immerse yourself in the Austrian experience by:

• Indulge in schnitzel, apple strudel, and other Austrian delicacies. Remember to try a refreshing glass of Austrian wine!
• A little German goes a long way in showing respect to the locals.
• Austria is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Hike, bike, swim, or simply relax in the stunning natural beauty.
• Visit historical sites, museums, and palaces to learn about Austria's rich history and culture.
• Take breaks, savor the scenery, and enjoy the relaxed Austrian pace of life.

With this 2-week itinerary, you will have an unforgettable adventure in Austria. From charming cities to breathtaking mountains and picturesque villages, Austria has something to offer everyone. But, before you pack your bag, you must secure an International Driver’s License. Since you are going on a road trip, it is best to tackle this with a rented car, but you can’t rent one without an IDL. If you don’t know how to secure an IDL, you can visit this page. After that, you can lace up your hiking boots and get ready to experience the magic of Austria!

• Is this itinerary doable in 2 weeks?

Yes, this itinerary is designed for a 2-week trip to Austria. However, travel times between locations vary depending on traffic and road conditions. You can also factor in additional time to explore each destination leisurely.

• What is the best time to visit Austria?

Austria is a beautiful country to visit year-round. Summer (June-August) is the most popular time for hiking and outdoor activities, while winter (December-February) is ideal for skiing and snowboarding. Shoulder seasons (spring and fall) offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds.

• Do I need a visa to visit Austria?

Austrian visa requirements depend on nationality. Citizens of most European countries, the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand do not need a visa for stays of up to 90 days. You can check your country's latest visa requirements on the Austrian embassy website.

• What is the currency used in Austria?

The official currency in Austria is the Euro (EUR).

• What language is spoken in Austria?

German is the official language spoken in Austria. However, many Austrians in tourist areas also speak English.

• Can I replace any destinations in this itinerary?

Absolutely! This itinerary is a suggestion, and you can customize it to fit your interests and time constraints. Austria has many other charming towns and stunning natural attractions to explore.

• What if I prefer something other than winter sports?

No problem! Austria offers many activities to enjoy year-round, such as hiking, biking, sightseeing, and soaking up the culture.

• Are there any other transportation options besides driving?

Austria has a well-developed public transportation system, including trains and buses. This can be a good option for getting between major cities, but renting a car may be more convenient for reaching some of the smaller villages and alpine areas.

• How much does this trip cost?

The cost of your trip will vary depending on your travel style, accommodation choices, and activities. Austria can be a relatively expensive country to visit, so be sure to factor in all your costs when budgeting for your trip.