Austria is the home of rich European culture and history. Mountains and forests are also the main highlights of the Austrian landscape. If you are looking for an adventurous land-based 2-week escapade, traveling in Austria can give you what you are craving!
In addition to its famous museums, palaces, and churches, Austria is known to be full of splendid historical destinations. They can bring you back in time with their preserved towers and artwork. Some attractions worth seeing include the Belvedere Palaces, the Mirabell Palace, and the Hofburg.
Traveling to Austria requires only 2 weeks to deeply experience its beauty. This 2-week itinerary will show you some of the exciting sides of Austria!
Day 1 and 2: Vienna
Most tourists take a flight into Austria that puts them in Vienna on their first day. Check into your desired hotel and get your first taste of an Austrian meal for breakfast.
Day 1 Morning Tour:
St. Stephen’s Cathedral – You would want to visit this site first as it is the symbol of Vienna. It is particularly famous for the magnificent towers that have dominated Vienna’s skyline over the decades.
The highest of them is the Steffl, which is what the Viennese call the South Tower. Make sure to climb the South Tower for the most panoramic view.
Palace and Gardens of Schonbrunn – It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is Austria’s most popular tourist destination. The location for The Palace along with the Gardens in Schonbrunn is well-known to be one of the more magnificent and well-maintained Baroque ensembles of their kind within Europe.
The Palace served as the summer residence of the Habsburgs from the 18th century to 1918. It still reflects the tastes and interests of the Habsburg monarchs today.
Day 1 Afternoon Tour:
The Hofburg – Since the Hofburg Palace has served as Vienna’s center of authority since 1279, it is unsurprising that it is awash in history. This enormous palace complex, which was once the winter home of the Habsburgs, now houses and functions as the office of the President of Austria.
The Sisi Museum, the opulent silver collections, and the lavishly painted Imperial rooms are all accessible to tourists who want to learn more about the palace’s fascinating history. Because of this, visitors can still get a glimpse of Hofburg Palace’s Imperial past.
Kunsthistorisches Museum – The immense collections of the imperial family were housed in the Kunsthistorisches Museum, which opened beside the Imperial Palace in 1891. It is regarded as one of the top museums in the world, thanks to its huge collection of well-known paintings and the greatest Bruegel collection of its sort in the world.
After a full day of touring, you can choose to end the night at a lively Viennese wine tavern or to take in an opera.
Day 2 Morning Tour:
Leopold Museum – The Leopold Museum houses a one-of-a-kind collection of Expressionist, Vienna Workshop, and modern Austrian art. The largest and most priceless collection of Egon Schiele’s artwork in the world is kept in the most popular museum in the city’s MuseumsQuartier, together with works by Gustav Klimt, the founder of the Vienna Secession movement, and other notable artists.
The museum also showcases exceptional works by Josef Hoffmann to Koloman Moser from the Vienna Workshop. The cube, which is covered in a shell of light limestone, has 4 levels and 5400 square feet that display a variety of current highlights and special exhibitions.
Kunsthalle Wien – The events lined up make it worthwhile to visit the Kunsthalle Wien MuseumsQuartier. The former Baroque winter riding arena will become a functioning addition designed by the Ortner + Ortner architectural office that combines the old building with contemporary design.
In this way, The Kunsthalle Wien MuseumsQuartier is destined to develop into a location brimming with the vitality of both architecture and art.
Vienna Boys’ Choir – The most well-known children’s choral group is the Wiener Sangerknaben, or Vienna Boys’ Choir. It was established in response to an Imperial mandate issued by Holy Roman Emperor Maximilian I on July 7, 1498 and is one of the most enduring musical ensembles.
The Emperor asked the voices of the lads to be added to those from the Hofkapelle, popularly known as the Imperial Chapel. It was the start of a tradition of boys singing during regular Sunday services in the Imperial Chapel of the Hofburg Palace in Vienna.
Day 2 Afternoon Tour:
Belvedere Palaces – Johann Lucas von Hildebrandt, a famous master of Baroque architecture, built 2 Belvedere Palaces in the 18th century to serve as Prince Eugene of Savoy’s summer residence from1663 to 1736. The Belvedere Palaces are considered the most stunning of Europe’s famous Baroque structures.
This complex, which encompasses both the Upper Belvedere and Lower Belvedere together with an enormous garden, is classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Belvedere Palaces today houses one of the finest collections of Austrian art, dating from the Middle Ages to the present, together with pieces by world-famous artists including Claude Monet, Vincent van Gogh, and Max Beckmann.
The greatest collection of Gustav Klimt’s works in existence, including the well-known gold Art Nouveau icons, The Kiss (Lovers) and Judith, as well as pieces by Egon Schiele and Oskar Kokoschka, which are among the highlights of the Vienna 1880–1914 collections.
Additional exhibits at the Upper Belvedere include significant French Impressionist pieces and the largest collection of Viennese Biedermeier artwork
Day 2 Evening Tour:
Grinzing District – Grinzing is the most well-known of the historic towns that have been incorporated into the modern city of Vienna, but it’s not just because of the little cottages with Baroque style ornamentation or the cobblestone alleys with vintage trams meandering up the Vienna Woods the foothills.
The city has, in some ways, the greatest concentration of urban vineyards anywhere on earth, and its renowned Heurige (wine taverns) are a major lure for tourists. Visitors are invited to their pleasant courtyard and tavern rooms by the proprietors of Zum Martin Sepp, which is located directly across the street from the parish church.
As they dance to musicians playing the characteristic folk accordion and singing traditional Viennese drinking songs, guests can savor Austrian cuisine, including their renowned Kaiserschmarrn pancakes, and also sip house Gruner Veltliner as well as other wines.
Day 3 Day Tour: Danube River
Follow Route 3, also known as the “Austrian Romantic Road,” west of Vienna in place of using the Autobahn. With its medieval churches, old homes, and cobblestone streets, Krems is the most pleasurable halt in the Danube Valley, and it can be reached from the north of the river by taking this wonderful old route.
The city is situated around 50 miles (80 kilometers) west of Vienna. Two side trips can be taken from Krems; the first one is to Durnstein, a medieval village located 8 kilometers (5 miles) to the west of Krems. The town has kept some of its fortified walls standing.
Continue on Route 33 from Durnstein along the Danube’s south bank until you reach Melk Abbey, Austria’s most stunning baroque monastery. It is 31 kilometers away (19 miles). You can take the route backwards to the northeast and then stay the night in Krems, or you can stay the night in Durnstein for nicer and smaller hotels.
Day 4: Linz
We advise you to leave Krems early in the morning and travel down Route 3, which meanders through the northern part of the Danube, for 254 kilometers (158 miles) towards Linz, where you can spend the night, rather than making your way to the Salzkammergut as we did on the third day.
Day 4 Morning Tour:
Ars Electronica Center – The Ars Electronica Center has set out to convey to visitors how new technology and scientific advancements affect everyone on a daily basis through its programs and exhibitions. Touristscan actively participate in the programs through interactive exhibits and open labs. The “Museum of the Future” has earned the title of “School of the Future” because of its carefully crafted workshops and educational initiatives.
Lentos Kunstmuseum Linz – In a unique environment, the Lentos Kunstmuseum showcases modern and contemporary art. Expressionism and classical contemporary art from the 18th century, including pieces by Klimt, Schiele, and Kokoschka, are displayed alongside more recent, contemporary artistic movements (VALIE export). Additionally, special displays offer a glimpse into a variety of subjects and artistic styles or concentrate on the works of certain artists. Family groups are welcome! Children can enjoy Lentos and its exhibits thanks to a curriculum about art that is specifically created for them.
Day 4 Afternoon Tour:
Abbey of St. Florian – The Imperial Marble Hall, the Sebastian Altar by Albrecht Altdorfer, the crypt housing the Sarcophagus of Anton Bruckner, and the “Bruckner Organ” in the basilica for the collegiate are all important features of the library, which has more than 150,000 books. Outside of Austria’s borders, the St. Florian Monastery is well-known as a destination for pilgrims. It is thought that St. Florian is buried here. The last resting place of well-known composer Anton Bruckner was also discovered inside the tomb.
Day 5: Salzkammergut Bad Ischl & Hallstatt
Day 5 Morning Tour:
It is best to leave Linz early on Day 5 and go south on the Autobahn (E55) until it intersects with Route 145, which will take you to the spa town of Bad Ischl, the ideal place to stay for the night before traveling to Salzburg the following day.
Day 5 Afternoon Tour:
Once you have checked in to your selected accommodation and enjoyed a snack, it is time to get back on the road for an afternoon spent in Hallstatt.
This quaint town looks just as if it has come out of a fairy tale. Situated on the edge of a lake surrounded by luscious green mountains, Hallstatt has plenty of picture perfect viewpoints that will take your breath away. Park in one of the designated parking zones, and stroll through the town, taking in the quietness, the fresh air and the beauty.
Depending on the time of day and your energy levels, a visit and to the Dachstein 5-Fingers observation deck will offer you an opportunity to experience Austria’s beauty from way above. With an observation deck shaped like a hand, each finger offering a different viewing experience, you will have the opportunity to experience the beauty of Halstatter See from above. Offering a wide selection of trails that range from short nature walks to multi-hour hikes, Dachstein is the perfect stop before heading back to Bad Ischl for the evening.
Days 6: Salzburg
Day 6 Morning Tour:
After a full night’s sleep, enjoy a filling breakfast before making your way to Salzburg. After parking your car at or near your Salzburg accommodation, hop on a public transportation bus to make your way toward the Old town.
Mirabell Palace & Gardens One of the few attractions on it’s side of the river, opposite of the old town, a stroll through the beautiful gardens is a delightful way to begin the day,
Mozart’s birthplace, Mozartplatz Square and the Mozart Statue Experience Mozart’s birthplace and the tribute of the city to him at the square named after him.
Salzburg Cathedral Experience the magnificence of the first Baroque church in Austria.
Hohensalzburg Fortress: Our recommended way to arrive at the fortress is to enjoy the short and lovely clim of the Festungsberg mountain. An alternative way is to take the funicular up the mountain. After paying for entry into the fortress you can wander around, enjoy the views, enter several of the galleries and museums, and even experience some culinary delights (or an apple strudel).
Day 6 Afternoon Tour:
Spend the rest of the afternoon wandering around the old town of Salzburg. Stroll through the curved and cobbled roads taking in the views of the Danube, the Fortress, the picturesque buildings and the beautiful mountain backdrop
Day 7: South to Lienz: Capital of East Tyrol
On the seventh day, depart Salzburg early in the morning. Up until the Route 159 intersection, travel south on Route 150. At 85 kilometers (53 miles) south of Salzburg, this road will turn into Route 311 and head west into Zell am See. Plan your stop here for lunch. If you’re feeling adventurous, climb the Schmittenhohe plateau for one of Salzburg’s most spectacular views.
Schmittenhöhe – Schmitten in Zell am See offers a wide range of alternatives for activities on the lake and the mountain, Zell Lake. The focus areas in both winter and summer include family, sports, entertainment, and art.
After lunch, travel 92 kilometers (57 miles) south on Route 107 to Lienz, where you will spend the night. The Tyrolean city of Lienz, which should not be confused with the recently discovered Linz (the capital of Upper Austria), is located at the intersection of 3 valleys.
You might spend the rest of your afternoon strolling around its historic streets or on one of the many lovely trails before going to Schloss Bruck.
Day 8: Grossglockner Road: The Greatest Alpine Highway
On Day eight of the journey, leave Lienz and go to the most picturesque section of the Grossglockner Road. There are numerous ways to reach this road. You can take Route 107 northward in the direction of Heiligenblut from where we started in Lienz.
Before taking a car up the mountain, you may stop for coffee at Heiligenblut. The distance from Lienz to Heiligenblut is 48 kilometers (30 miles).
Grossglockner Road – The Hohe Tauern National Park’s center can be reached through the Grossglockner High Alpine Road. The Eastern Alps’ most well-known Alpine road winds through the distinctive mountain scenery for 48 kilometers (30 miles).
Heiligenblut – The renowned mountaineering community of Heiligenblut is regarded as one of the most beautiful in the entire Alpine region. It is located in a stunning mountainous area at a height of around 1,300 meters above sea level.
Within the Hohe Tauern National Park, it is placed against an incomparable natural background. It is surrounded by the beautiful Grossglockner mountain, Austria’s highest peak at 3,798 meters.
You’ll arrive in Bruck a der Grossglocknerstrasse in Land Salzburg, close to Zell am See, via the road. From the Zell am See ski area, take Routes 168 and 161 northwest into Kitzbühel, where you can spend the night. Follow the signs to Kitzbühel along these routes.
There are 55 kilometers (34 miles) between Kitzbühel and the Zell am See region.
Day 9: Kitzbühel: Ski Circus
Kitzbühel: Ski Circus – One area, 9 ski resorts: The Kitzbühel Alps provides slopes for skiers and boarders of all ages and skill levels, from family ski holidays with peaceful days spent gliding down the slopes to demanding, expert-only terrain for daring skiers and boarders.
Alpine Flower Garden – In the vicinity of Kitzbuhel, the Alpine Flower Garden Kitzbuheler Horn (Alpenblumengarten Kitzbuheler Horn) opened its doors in 1985. There are many paths to choose from as you make your way to the summit – ne leads you just below the top through the Alpine Flower Garden at 1,880 meters above sea level. You can also access the garden from a little below the summit via thecable car at Hornbahn.
The former owner of this property, Ernst Walter Reisch, has made the garden’s 20,000 square meters and 400 plant types available.
Day 10: Mayrhofen, Zillertal Alps, & Olpererhutte Hike
Drive along the scenic highway through Mayrhofen, taking in views of the Zillertal Alps until you reach a toll road. This road is one way and rotates every 15-20 minutes throughout the day. This toll road will take you to the base of the iconic Olpererhutte hiking trail.
This 3 hour up and back hike is one of our favorite hikes. It is not too difficult of a hike but it is important to note that it should only be done on a clear day and in sturdy shoes. Be sure to carry along plenty of water for the hike up.
Day 11 and 12: Innsbruck
Day 11 Morning Tour:
Altstadt – The Alstadt neighborhood of Innsbruck is home to stunning Baroque style buildings, spiked turrets, and fairy tale churches and structures. It is hardly surprising that Salzburg’s Alstadt was designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1997 given that some of the oldest structures in the Alps have been conserved among its streets.
Maria-Theresien-Strasse – Maria Theresien Street, one of Innsbruck’s most well-known avenues, is a remarkable artifact from the city’s 700-year-old Baroque past. It is now a pedestrian promenade and runs through the heart of Old Town. Along its length are attractions like St. Anne’s Column and the Triumphal Arch, as well as palaces that once belonged to the city’s aristocratic elite.
Golden Roof (Goldenes Dachl) – The Golden Roof (Goldenes Dachl), the most well-known feature in the city, is situated in the old city’s historic district. The gleaming roof, which is composed of more than 2,000 copper tiles, was built on the orders of the Emperor Maximilian more than 500 years ago. He could view his city from below as it was constructed on an open balcony. The back of the figure in its bare form is a classic decoration on the roof. Nobody is aware of the cause as of today
Day 11 Afternoon Tour:
Hofkirche (Court Church Innsbruck) – In Old Town, there is a Gothic church that was built in 1553. Maximilian I, the Holy Roman Emperor, is buried outside Vienna at Wiener Neustadt, although the church was erected to house his grave. As a result, the chapel does not contain his remains. The 28 life-sized bronze figurines that guard the tomb, however, continue to make the cathedral a popular tourist destination despite having an empty tomb that is enclosed in a cage made of gold.
Tiroler Volkskunstmuseum – The Tiroler Volkskunstmuseum, whose name translates to “Tyrolean Folk Art Museum,” is one of the best anthropology museums in Europe. The museum is housed in the magnificent Neues Stift (New Abbey), which is connected to the Hofberg church.
Its 3 floors are filled with artifacts and objects of all kinds that depict life as a Tyrolean peasant (or nobleman or clergyman) between the 16th and the 18th centuries, from conception to death.
Day 12 Tour:
Start Day 12 by leaving Innsbruck completely to visit some significant Tyrolean sights nearby.
Hungerburg – Visitors can travel to Hungerburg in under 8 minutes thanks to the Hungerburg funicular. Along the route, there are numerous attractions, including the Alpine Zoo, which is well-liked by families. After arriving at the Hungerburg station, guests can access the cable car station by taking a short stroll through Hermann Buhl Square, which is named after the well-known Austrian mountaineer.
Schloss Ambras – Ambras Castle, which is exquisitely placed atop a hill overlooking Innsbruck, is the focal point of the attractive English landscape garden, which also includes a play area and a duck pond.
The most comprehensive collection of art armories, books, and books is kept in Europe’s most beautifully preserved and romantic Renaissance-style castle. Over 200 paintings from the era of the Habsburg Dynasty are on display at the renowned Portrait Gallery, which is one of the most important museums in the world.
Wiltener Basilika – The Rococo Church is thought to be a part of history dating back to the fifth century using the remains of an earlier church that are found beneath the present building.
The Wilten Boys Choir resides there, and the inside of the church features ceiling friezes, rocaille stucco, and gold accents. The church is well-known for its statue of “Our Lady Under the Four Columns.”
Day 13: West to St. Anton am Arlberg
On Day 13, leave Innsbruck early and go west along 171 until it intersects with Route 186. The Otz Valley, undoubtedly the most picturesque and attractive area in Tyrol, is accessible from Route 186, where the route can be turned south. As you pass through the slopes and glaciers of Otztal Alpine peaks, there are various waterfalls and summits that are coated in snow.
You can stop in the town of Oetz, the town’s major entrance, to refuel and eat lunch. It’s situated on a sunny slope of 822m in the center of what is known as the “Tyrolean Arctic,” a glacier area that is among the most picturesque in Austria (2,697 feet).
Oetz – On the valley level, between the locations of 2 historic rockslides, is a little settlement called Oetz. It is situated at the entrance to the Tztal Valley, beneath the towering Acherkogel mountain.
You might go as far as Solden after returning to the road that passes through it and climbing to 1,342 meters (4,403 feet). The village has a lovely, folklore-filled charm After a break, turn toward the road and travel from Innsbruck to the west along the other side.
Solden – The 300 kilometers of trails in Solden take you past mountain brooklets, through lush alpine meadows, and into a magical expanse of granite and ice. Alpinists who are sporty or leisurely walkers, as well as families, may quickly turn their mountain fantasies into reality thanks to the abundance of hiking trails and suitable uphill climbing facilities.
Arrive in St. Anton, one of Austria’s best ski resorts, which can be accessed via Route 171, 100 kilometers (62 miles) west of Innsbruck, and spend the night there. Spend the night here before setting out early the next morning to cross the Arlberg Pass.
St. Anton – It is challenging for other resorts to match the reputation that has made St Anton am Arlberg the best ski destination in the world. Large off-piste areas, an unchanging, deep snowpack, and powder are all features of the St. Anton ski resort. Families and intermediate skiers both like it, while advanced skiers find it extremely appealing.
Day 14: West to Bregenz
Travel to the Arlberg Pass, a breathtakingly beautiful journey, to start Day 14, your final day in Austria. At 1,784 meters, you can depart St. Anton and travel to St. Christoph (5,853 feet.). By taking Route 316 from St. Anton, you may get there. The distance to the site is about 8 kilometers (5 miles).
Continue west until you reach Austria’s capital city of Bregenz, passing through the westernmost province of Austria, Vorarlberg. When you reach the A14 Autobahn’s junction with the westbound S19, turn left.
On the southern banks of Bodensee, 150 kilometers (90 miles) to the northwest of Innsbruck, is where you may find Bregenz (Lake Constance). Observing the lakes and mountains for two or three days is doable, but you might feel strained. If so, Zurich, one of Europe’s major transit hubs, is only 130 km (81 miles) to the east of you, making it easy for you to finish your journey across Austria.