The Ultimate 30-Day Austria Travel Guide
- tejaswiseth
- Apr 3
- 9 min read
Updated: 5 days ago
Let's dive into an incredible 30-day journey through the stunning landscapes and imperial elegance of Austria. This itinerary is crafted to give you a rich, multi-faceted experience, blending alpine adventures with cultural immersion and blissful relaxation.
Why This 30-Day Austrian Guide is Valuable For You:
Beyond Vienna & Salzburg: While covering the iconic cities, 30 days allows you to explore diverse regions often missed on shorter trips – from the high Alps and picturesque lake districts to rolling wine hills and charming spa towns.
Balanced Experience: We've meticulously woven together active days (hiking, exploring mountains, cycling) with relaxing moments (soaking in thermal spas, enjoying coffee house culture, cruising on lakes, wine tasting) and cultural deep dives (palaces, museums, music).
Logical & Efficient Route: The itinerary flows geographically, generally in a loop, minimizing unnecessary travel time and allowing you to fully immerse yourself in each region before moving on.
Variety is Key: Experience imperial grandeur, breathtaking natural beauty, world-class music, delicious food (from Schnitzel to Sachertorte), charming villages, and unique regional traditions.
Flexibility Included: This plan provides a solid structure, but with 30 days, you have the luxury to linger, take detours, swap activities based on weather or mood, or simply enjoy unexpected discoveries.
Transport Savvy: Assumes a mix of Austria's excellent public transport (trains are fantastic) and a rental car for specific regions (like scenic drives, wine routes, deeper Alpine exploration) for optimal freedom.
Austria Enchanted: The Ultimate 30-Day Adventure & Relaxation Itinerary
Pacing Legend:
(R) Relaxing: Slow pace, focus on scenery, food, culture, unwinding.
(M) Moderate: Mix of sightseeing, gentle walks, exploration.
(A) Adventurous: Hiking, significant walking, potentially long/active days.
(T) Travel: Significant driving/train travel time involved.
Part 1: Imperial Vienna & Danube Dreams (Days 1-7)
Day 1: Arrival in Vienna (R)
Arrive at Vienna International Airport (VIE). Take the CAT train, S-Bahn, or taxi/ride-share to your accommodation.
Check in, leave luggage. Gentle introductory stroll around your neighborhood. Perhaps see Stephansdom (St. Stephen's Cathedral) exterior.
Relaxing first taste of Vienna: Enjoy dinner at a traditional 'Beisl' (local tavern). Value: Smooth arrival, gentle immersion into the capital.
Day 2: Vienna - Imperial Palaces (M)
Morning: Visit Schönbrunn Palace, the magnificent former summer residence of the Habsburgs. Explore the State Rooms and wander the vast gardens (Tiergarten zoo optional).
Afternoon: Explore the Hofburg Palace complex in the city centre – Imperial Apartments, Sisi Museum, Silver Collection. Maybe visit the Spanish Riding School stables (performances need booking way ahead). Value: Stepping into Austria's imperial past.
Day 3: Vienna - Art, Music & Views (M)
Morning: Visit one of Vienna's world-class museums (e.g., Kunsthistorisches Museum - Art History, Albertina - Impressionists/Modern Art, Leopold Museum - Schiele/Klimt).
Afternoon: Enjoy panoramic city views from the top of St. Stephen's Cathedral (south tower climb or north tower lift). Wander through the elegant Graben and Kohlmarkt streets.
Evening: Attend a classical music concert (many options, book ahead for famous venues like Musikverein or Staatsoper). Value: Cultural deep dive - art & music.
Day 4: Vienna - Coffee Houses & Prater Fun (R/M)
Morning: Embrace Viennese coffee house culture. Linger over coffee and cake (Sachertorte, Apfelstrudel) at a famous spot like Café Central or Demel. Read, people-watch, relax.
Afternoon: Visit the Prater amusement park. Ride the iconic Riesenrad (Giant Ferris Wheel) for nostalgic views. Explore the park's other attractions or simply enjoy the atmosphere.
Explore the Naschmarkt food market for snacks or dinner. Value: Experiencing local traditions & iconic fun.
Day 5: Day Trip to Wachau Valley (M/T)
Take a day trip (train to Melk or Krems, potentially combined with a Danube boat cruise - seasonal).
Visit the stunning Melk Abbey, perched dramatically above the Danube.
Explore the charming village of Dürnstein, known for its castle ruins (where Richard the Lionheart was held) and apricot products. Sample local Grüner Veltliner wine.
Return to Vienna in the evening. Value: Scenic river valley, history, wine.
Day 6: Travel to Salzburg (T/R)
Take a comfortable train (Railjet or Westbahn) from Vienna to Salzburg (approx. 2.5-3 hours).
Check into your Salzburg accommodation.
Gentle orientation: Stroll through the Mirabell Gardens (Sound of Music!). Walk along the Salzach River. Explore the Getreidegasse with its unique guild signs. Value: Smooth transition, charming first impressions.
Day 7: Salzburg - Fortress & Mozart (M)
Morning: Ascend (funicular or walk) to Hohensalzburg Fortress for commanding views and exploration of the castle complex.
Afternoon: Dive into Mozart's legacy – visit Mozart's Birthplace and/or Mozart Residence museums. Explore Salzburg Cathedral and the Residenzplatz.
Consider a 'Sound of Music' tour if you're a fan (optional). Value: Iconic sights, musical heritage.
Part 2: Lake District Beauty & Alpine Heights (Days 8-15)
Day 8: Salzkammergut - St. Wolfgang & Schafberg (M/A)
Pick up rental car OR use regional buses/trains+buses. Travel into the Salzkammergut (Lake District). Base yourself near Lake Wolfgang (St. Gilgen, Strobl, or St. Wolfgang).
Visit charming St. Wolfgang village. Take the cog railway up the Schafberg mountain (seasonal) for arguably the best panoramic views of the entire lake district. Value: Breathtaking lake & mountain scenery.
Day 9: Hallstatt - Picture Perfect (M)
Drive or take bus/train+ferry to the iconic village of Hallstatt (UNESCO World Heritage). Arrive early to beat crowds.
Wander the unbelievably picturesque streets, visit the Bone House (Beinhaus), take photos from the classic viewpoint. Consider visiting the Salt Mine (Salzwelten) via funicular for history and views. Value: Visiting one of Europe's most beautiful villages.
Day 10: Dachstein Adventures - Caves & Views (A)
Drive towards Obertraun. Take the Dachstein Krippenstein cable car up the mountain.
Explore the Giant Ice Cave (Eishöhle) and/or the Mammut Cave.
Walk to the spectacular '5 Fingers' viewing platform for adrenaline-pumping views over Lake Hallstatt and the surrounding peaks. Value: Unique natural wonders, thrilling views.
Day 11: Salzkammergut Lake Relaxation (R)
Enjoy a slower day. Swim in Lake Wolfgangsee, Fuschlsee, or Mondsee (summer). Rent an electric boat or paddleboard.
Visit the quaint village of St. Gilgen (Mozart's mother's birthplace). Hike a portion of a lakeside trail. Relax at a cafe with lake views. Value: Recharge amidst stunning nature.
Day 12: Travel to Innsbruck (T/R)
Scenic drive (or train journey potentially via Salzburg/Germany) to Innsbruck, the capital of Tyrol.
Check into your hotel. Afternoon orientation: See the Golden Roof (Goldenes Dachl), walk through the charming Altstadt (Old Town), admire the colourful houses along the Inn River. Value: Transition to the heart of the Alps.
Day 13: Innsbruck - Top of the Mountain (M/A)
Take the Nordkette cable cars directly from the city centre up to Hafelekar (2,334m). Enjoy breathtaking 360-degree views of the city, the Inn Valley, and the surrounding Alps. Optional short hike along the ridge.
Explore the Alpine Zoo (optional) on the way down. Value: Easy access to high alpine vistas.
Day 14: Tyrolean Hiking or Crystal Worlds (A/M)
Option A (Adventurous): Choose a hike in the nearby mountains suited to your level (e.g., Zirbenweg trail, Patscherkofel, Axamer Lizum area). Enjoy the pristine Tyrolean nature.
Option B (Moderate/Relaxing): Visit Swarovski Crystal Worlds in Wattens (short bus/car ride) for a unique, sparkling artistic experience. Value: Alpine activity or unique attraction.
Day 15: Scenic Drive / Travel Towards Grossglockner (T/M) - Seasonal
Note: Grossglockner High Alpine Road is typically open May-Oct/Nov. Check status & weather!
Option A (with car): Begin a scenic drive towards Heiligenblut or Zell am See, positioning yourself for the Grossglockner road tomorrow. Enjoy picturesque Tyrolean or Salzburgerland villages en route.
Option B (without car/road closed): Enjoy a relaxing morning in Innsbruck, perhaps visit Ambras Castle. Take a scenic train ride towards Carinthia (next destination), possibly via Lienz. Value: Scenic transition day.
Part 3: High Alpine Roads & Southern Lakes (Days 16-21)
Day 16: Grossglockner High Alpine Road Adventure (A/T) - Seasonal
If road is open & you have a car: Drive the spectacular Grossglockner High Alpine Road. Stop frequently at viewpoints. Drive up to the Kaiser-Franz-Josefs-Höhe viewpoint to see Austria's highest peak (Grossglockner) and the Pasterze Glacier. Allow most of the day.
Continue drive towards Carinthia (e.g., Millstatt or Velden). Value: One of Europe's best scenic drives, glacier views.
Alternative (if road closed/no car): Continue scenic train journey to Carinthia. Perhaps stop in Lienz or Spittal an der Drau.
Day 17: Carinthian Lakes - Wörthersee Fun (R/M)
Explore Lake Wörthersee, Austria's popular summer lake. Visit lively Velden (casino, promenade) or relaxed Pörtschach.
Climb the Pyramidenkogel viewing tower (lift/stairs) for amazing panoramic views of the lake and surrounding region.
Swim, sunbathe, enjoy watersports (summer). Value: Lakeside relaxation, riviera feel.
Day 18: Carinthian Lakes - Millstätter See Serenity (R/M)
Explore the quieter, beautiful Millstätter See. Visit Millstatt village with its historic abbey.
Consider a boat trip on the lake or a gentle hike along its shores. Relax by the water.
Visit Burg Hochosterwitz (impressive hilltop castle - slight detour) if time/interest permits. Value: Tranquil lake scenery, historical sites.
Day 19: Travel to Graz (T/R)
Scenic drive or train journey from Carinthia to Graz, the capital of Styria and Austria's second city.
Check into your accommodation. First exploration of Graz's UNESCO-listed Old Town. See the unique Kunsthaus (modern art museum) and Murinsel (island in the Mur river). Value: Transition to a vibrant, unique city.
Day 20: Graz - Schlossberg & City Charm (M)
Ascend the Schlossberg hill (funicular, lift, or walk) for panoramic views over Graz's red rooftops. See the Clock Tower (Uhrturm), the city's symbol. Explore the tunnels and park area.
Wander through the historic centre: Hauptplatz (main square), Landhaus courtyard (Renaissance gem), Graz Cathedral and Mausoleum. Value: City exploration, history, great views.
Day 21: Graz - Culture & Relaxation (R/M)
Visit Eggenberg Palace (UNESCO site) with its themed state rooms and park (requires tram/bus ride).
Explore more of Graz, perhaps the Armoury (Zeughaus) or browse the farmers' markets on Kaiser-Josef-Platz or Lendplatz. Relax in a city park or café. Value: Deeper cultural dive, relaxed city pace.
Part 4: Styrian Wine & Eastern Plains (Days 22-28)
Day 22: South Styrian Wine Road (R/M) - Car Recommended
Take a day trip driving the beautiful South Styrian Wine Route (Südsteirische Weinstraße) near the Slovenian border.
Stop at 'Buschenschank' wineries for tastings (especially Sauvignon Blanc, Welschriesling) and a traditional Brettljause (platter of cold cuts, spreads, bread). Enjoy the stunning rolling hill scenery, often called "Styrian Tuscany." Value: Picturesque landscapes, wine culture, local food.
Day 23: Styrian Spa Day or Piber Stud Farm (R)
Option A (Relaxing): Indulge in a relaxing day at one of Styria's thermal spas, like Therme Loipersdorf or Bad Waltersdorf. Soak in the healing waters, enjoy saunas.
Option B (Relaxing/Moderate): Visit the Piber Stud Farm, home to the Lipizzaner stallions before they go to the Spanish Riding School in Vienna. Take a tour, see the horses. Value: Wellness or unique equestrian experience.
Day 24: Travel towards Burgenland (T/M)
Drive or take train/bus combination towards Burgenland, Austria's easternmost province. Aim for the area around Lake Neusiedl or Eisenstadt.
Check into your accommodation. Perhaps a short walk near Lake Neusiedl if time permits. Value: Transition to a different landscape - flat plains, unique lake.
Day 25: Lake Neusiedl National Park (R/M)
Explore Lake Neusiedl (Neusiedler See), a vast, shallow steppe lake (UNESCO World Heritage).
Go birdwatching (fantastic opportunities), rent bikes and cycle parts of the lakeside path, visit charming lakeside villages like Rust (known for storks and wine). Take a short boat trip. Value: Unique ecosystem, relaxed outdoor activities.
Day 26: Eisenstadt & Esterházy Palace (M)
Visit Eisenstadt, the capital of Burgenland. Explore the magnificent Esterházy Palace, where Joseph Haydn worked for many years. Tour the opulent Haydn Hall and state rooms.
Wander through the pleasant town centre. Visit the Haydn House museum. Value: History, music heritage, palace grandeur.
Day 27: Burgenland Wine or Relaxation (R)
Explore the Burgenland wine region further (known for red wines like Blaufränkisch and Zweigelt, and sweet wines near the lake). Visit a local Heuriger (wine tavern).
Alternatively, enjoy a final relaxing day near Lake Neusiedl, perhaps visiting the St. Martins Therme & Lodge for another spa experience. Value: Wine focus or final relaxation.
Day 28: Return towards Vienna / Baden bei Wien (T/R)
Travel back towards Vienna (approx. 1-1.5 hours drive/train).
Option: Stop in Baden bei Wien, an elegant spa town just south of Vienna, known for its Biedermeier architecture, casino, and Beethoven connections. Enjoy a final Austrian spa experience or pleasant stroll.
Check into accommodation near Vienna Airport or back in the city for convenience. Value: Gentle return, optional spa town visit.
Part 5: Farewell Austria (Days 29-30)
Day 29: Last Austrian Impressions (R/M)
Depending on your location and flight time: Last minute souvenir shopping in Vienna, revisit a favourite Viennese spot, enjoy a final coffee house visit, or relax before your journey. If near Baden, enjoy the town.
Organize luggage, check flight details. Farewell Austrian dinner. Value: Leisurely final day, preparation.
Day 30: Departure (T)
Enjoy a final Austrian breakfast.
Travel to Vienna International Airport (VIE) for your departure.
Leave Austria with cherished memories of its mountains, music, cities, and charm!
Essential Tips for Your 30-Day Austrian Trip:
Book Key Things: Trains (especially Sparschiene discounted tickets), popular attractions (Schönbrunn, Spanish Riding School performances, concerts), specific tours, and accommodation, particularly in peak season (summer, Christmas markets).
Transport: Austria's train network (ÖBB) is excellent and punctual. A rental car offers freedom for specific scenic routes (Grossglockner, Wine Roads) and exploring rural areas but isn't essential for city-to-city travel. Remember to buy a Vignette (toll sticker) for highways if driving. Public transport within cities is efficient.
Language: German is the official language. English is widely spoken in tourist areas, but learning basic German phrases (Guten Tag, Danke, Bitte) is appreciated.
Food & Drink: Don't miss Wiener Schnitzel, Tafelspitz, Kaiserschmarrn, Apfelstrudel, Sachertorte. Try regional wines (Grüner Veltliner, Zweigelt), local beers, and Almdudler (herbal soda). Coffee house culture is a must!
Hiking Prep: If planning significant hikes, bring proper footwear, layers (weather changes fast in the Alps), water, snacks, and check trail conditions.
Cash & Cards: Cards are widely accepted, but having some cash (Euros) is useful for smaller purchases, markets, mountain huts, and some rural Buschenschanken.
Embrace the Pace: 30 days is a luxury. Allow time for spontaneous stops, long lunches, relaxing afternoons, and simply soaking it all in.
Have an absolutely fantastic and enriching 30-day adventure through Austria!
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