vienna mountain trip

  [An * means an affiliate relationship; see footer] City guide | Search the site | Tips for September

Visiting Vienna

Day trip to the Alps

The Alps are long. About 1200 km long. Unfortunately, the mountain range is still not quite long enough, since it stops just short of Vienna.

So you won’t see any snow-capped Alpine giants by staring out of your hotel window. But you can visit the Alps quite easily from Vienna. In fact, it makes a pretty decent day trip. Here’s how…

• Day trips from Vienna

Where are the Alps?

(The hills are alive, apparently)

You tend to think of cities like Salzburg and Innsbruck when anyone mentions the Austrian Alps, but the mountains actually stretch across much of the country from the west, petering out just before they reach Vienna.

I’ve marked the three typical Alpine destinations the Viennese go to for weekends and day trips (Semmering, Rax, and Schneeberg) on the map below. As you can see, they all lie within 80 km of the city center as the crow flies and a little over an hour away if you hire a car *.

(We actually get our water through direct pipelines from these nearby mountainous areas.)

How to get to the Alps from Vienna

Before we continue, a word of warning.

If you’re going into the mountains, be sure to check travel and weather conditions, then adjust your plans and gear accordingly. In particular, ensure you have the right footwear if you’re planning to walk around Alpine terrain. Check with the local tourist offices for advice.

The Schneeberg mountain is the easiest to reach by public transport.

Basically, you catch a train to “Puchberg am Schneeberg” from the Hauptbahnhof (main station) in Vienna. You typically have to change once in Wiener Neustadt, but the whole trip only takes about 90 minutes.

Helpfully, the rail service that takes you up the actual mountain leaves next door to the station.

The Salamander train, named for its colours, carries you up to 1800m above sea level. The top has walking trails as well as a restaurant (!).

The service does not operate all year round; the main season runs from around late April into early November, though you may find special trips available out of season.

Check for current details, timetables, etc. here . With a bit of luck, you can catch an old steam locomotive travelling the same line.

The town Puchberg am Schneeberg is a little over an hour’s drive from the centre of Vienna (traffic notwithstanding). Check their official tourism website for directions, plus up-to-date info on facilities, costs, getting there etc..

This is where Viennese day trippers go skiing.

(This needs no caption)

A mini cable car takes you from the town up into the mountains. This service normally runs every day in the winter season (it’s a proper ski resort with lifts and slopes) and high summer, but has a restricted service at other times.

Yep, the top station has a restaurant next to it.

Semmering is on the main S6 road that branches off from the A2 Sudautobahn (southern motorway) out of Vienna, again somewhat over an hour’s drive from the city.

Trains go direct to the resort’s railway station from the Hauptbahnhof. The train journey is actually slightly shorter than for Schneeberg, but it’s a 25-minute walk to the cable car station (or jump in a taxi. Look out for possible shuttle buses too).

Check the official Semmering tourism website for current travel info, facilities, timetables, prices, etc..

A cable car service takes you up to the Rax alpine mountain hiking area at around 1600m above sea level. It operates most days at frequent intervals but sometimes closes for a period (I’m guessing for maintenance). Check current timetables, prices etc. here .

Your target railway station is Payerbach-Reichenau, reachable from Vienna’s Hauptbahnhof station.

The train journey time varies but can be as little as somewhat over an hour. Then you have to get to the cable car station, which is 6+ km away, so you’ll need to catch a bus or taxi, for example.

A car journey direct to the cable car station from Vienna takes around 75 minutes. Check the official Reichenau an der Rax website for local information.

The Viennese hills

Incidentally, Vienna has its own range of hills in the west of the city. The tallest is Hermannskogel at around 542m above sea level. Not quite Alpine levels of natural grandeur, but the forested areas in particular look rather wonderful in autumnal colours or after snow.

Some of the official city hiking paths include these hills. Berg means hill or mountain in German so look for routes that have that word in place names (e.g. routes 1 and 1a to Kahlenberg and Leopoldsberg respectively).

Other useful links

• General tourism site for the Viennese alpine region
• Bergfex travel and weather portal for the Austrian Alps
• Austrian National Railways for journey planning and tickets

7 Beautiful Day Trips From Vienna (Within Austria)

Notes & Disclaimer: (1) Google seems to be having a hiccup . Please use other search engines to find more guides and articles from WanderInEurope. (2) This website is reader supported. And this post might have affiliate links. This means we could earn a small commission if you make a qualifying purchase. No additional cost to you. More info: Disclosure .

Should you be planning a multi-day visit to Vienna , there are a multitude of reasons to extend your journey beyond the city’s borders.

First reason: proximity . Given that the capital cities of neighboring countries are just a train ride (or a relaxing cruise) away from Vienna, it’s not at all far-fetched to think about taking a day trip from Vienna to visit them.

Look east of Vienna —there’s Bratislava and Budapest —two other great cities in Central Europe.

But before you completely explore eastward, it’s also a good idea to look nearby and west of Vienna — to other destinations in Austria . Their unique character, cultural significance, and movie-like charm make them worthy of a day trip from Vienna.

In my view, these day trips are a must for fans of Romanticism, history, and nature.

I’ve discovered seven fantastic day trip destinations from Vienna, spread across three states: Lower Austria, Upper Austria, and Salzburg . From nearest to farthest from Vienna, they are:

• Laxenburg Castle Park ,
• Liechtenstein Castle ,
• Kreuzenstein Castle ,
• Melk Abbey ,
• Hallstatt ,
• St. Gilgen , and

To learn more about each option, you can click on the links above for an in-depth discussion of each day trip, or simply read the summary I’ve prepared for you below.

Good to know

There are four great spots to check out on a day trip from Vienna in Lower Austria, the state that encircles Vienna. There’s also one in Upper Austria and a couple in the State of Salzburg. If you’re driving or part of a group day tour, you can hit three or four attractions in a single day. However, if you’re using public transportation, you’ll likely only get to two.

Quick find: Most famous day trip from Vienna — Hallstatt & Alpine Peaks Day Trip with Skywalk Lift

Check out WanderInEurope’s Pinterest Page .

#1 Laxenburg Castle Park (Laxenburg, Lower Austria)

Laxenburg Castle Park is the most convenient day trip you can take from Vienna .

You can get to Laxenburg Castle Park from the main train station in a quick bus ride of just 30 to 40 minutes.

In my opinion, Laxenburg Castle Park is definitely worth checking out for two reasons .

It’s the largest landscaped garden in the entire country and is home to some fascinating garden features and castles .

One of these is the 19th-century Franzensburg , a beautiful castle located in the middle of a small lake in the park. Despite being built only a couple of centuries ago, it epitomizes a romantic, medieval-style castle.

Laxenburg Castle Park holds historical significance as the spring residence of Habsburg family members , including Empress Sisi and her husband, Franz Joseph .

During your visit, you have the option to take a tour inside Franzensburg or enjoy a leisurely boat ride on the lake surrounding the castle.

Compared to other day trip options from Vienna, I believe Laxenburg Castle Park is a superior choice if you’re looking for a relaxing retreat in nature .

Learn more about Laxenburg Castle Park and other day trips here .

You might find these interesting!

#2 Liechtenstein Castle (Maria Enzersdorf, Lower Austria)

Another day trip from Vienna that’s worth considering is Liechtenstein Castle .

It’s conveniently located within Austria and is less than an hour away from the city . If you’re using public transportation, you’ll need to make a transfer in Mödling to reach Liechtenstein Castle.

In contrast to the Franzensburg Castle in Laxenburg that we talked about earlier, Liechtenstein Castle has a more genuine medieval background . Its history dates back to the early 12th century!

However, due to the ravages of wars that swept across Europe, like the Ottoman onslaught and World War II, it’s no longer the same as it was back then.

Despite these changes, the castle still retains a distinct medieval charm , evident in its imposing tower and overall exterior.

Liechtenstein Castle is still privately owned today, but it opens its doors to visitors who wish to explore its artifact-filled interiors that reveal a unique side of Vienna’s history . It’s not centered around the Habsburgs, but rather, the people who bear the same name as the castle.

With a Vienna Pass , you can visit Liechtenstein Castle, without the worry of an entry fee for the castle’s interiors.

Fun fact: Liechtenstein Castle’s authentic feel led to it being chosen as the filming location for the 1993 film, The Three Musketeers .

Learn more about Liechtenstein Castle and other day trips here .

#3 Kreuzenstein Castle (Leobendorf, Lower Austria)

Located to the north of Vienna in the town of Leobendorf is the magnificent Kreuzenstein Castle .

This day trip from Vienna is a mix of enchanting fairytale and a touch of adventure , particularly if you’re using public transportation. The reason? There’s a brief hike through a forested hill to reach the castle, which sits majestically at the top.

This castle’s hilltop location is why I view it as a fairytale destination for a day trip from Vienna.

Its look leaves no room for question—it’s a unique mix of German castle and Gothic architectural styles .

Just wait until you step into its courtyard —you’ll be awestruck and find yourself snapping photos non-stop!

The timber framing of some of its exteriors, the pointed roof, and the intricate flower-like Gothic ornamentation (tracery) of Kreuzenstein Castle will make you feel like you’ve stepped into a movie set .

In fact, Kreuzenstein Castle isn’t just a fairytale location— it’s actually been featured in a movie ! It served as the filming location for the 2011 film, ‘The Season of The Witch.’

Visitors are welcome to explore the castle’s interiors, but a guided tour is necessary . In my opinion, the highlight of the tour is the armory , which is considered by many to be one of Austria’s most historically significant collections of weaponry .

Learn more about Kreuzenstein Castle and other day trips here .

#4 Melk Abbey (Wachau Valley, Lower Austria)

Just an hour’s journey from Vienna will take you to Wachau Valley , a UNESCO heritage site that’s home to one of Austria’s architectural gems: Melk Abbey .

If you’re a Catholic with a passion for architecture like me, this place will leave you in awe. But it’s not just for us! It’s undeniably one of the most breathtaking historical sites outside of Vienna.

From its impressive library to its marble hall , the Imperial staircase , and the abbey church , Melk Abbey promises a series of awe-inspiring moments.

And let’s not overlook the Abbey’s location— it overlooks the Wachau Valley , offering a truly romantic view and experience from its stunning baroque balcony.

Apart from its enduring elegance, I view it as an honor to explore Melk Abbey. It’s a place steeped in nearly a thousand years of history .

Participating in a guided tour reveals a wealth of knowledge, encompassing the abbey’s political and religious significance, its various functions, its construction, its architectural style, and so much more.

elk Abbey also features a museum , which houses fascinating artifacts, including a reusable casket —quite intriguing, don’t you think?

Another factor that makes a day trip to Melk Abbey from Vienna a worthwhile experience is its location in the scenic Wachau Valley .

After your exploration of the Abbey, you can take in the nearby quaint towns in the valley, ascend to the ruins of castles perched on hilltops , and indulge your love for Romanticism .

Here are some popular day tours from Vienna with Melk Abbey: 

• Wachau, Melk Abbey, & Danube Valley (with romantic boat)
• Melk Abbey, Dürnstein, and more in Wachau Valley (with Wine Tasting)
• Melk, Hallstatt & Salzburg (Grand Austria Tour)

Learn more about Melk Abbey and other day trips here .

#5 Hallstatt (Salzkammergut, Upper Austria)

When you think of attractions in the Austrian countryside, Hallstatt stands unrivaled.

Hallstatt is one of the ultimate destinations in the country ; a top day trip from Vienna. Just one look from its viewpoint, where you can take in the sight of its iconic church nestled against the backdrop of mountains and a peaceful lake, and it’s clear why it’s a top spot in Austria.

And here’s a fun fact: Hallstatt was the inspiration for the Disney blockbuster , Frozen . Amazing, isn’t it?

In terms of direct distance from Vienna, Hallstatt is the next closest destination after Melk Abbey, which is why it’s fifth on my list.

However, situated in the mountainous, lake-dotted region of Salzkammergut in Upper Austria , it requires more than 4 hours of travel time via public transportation with 2 to 3 transfers, or 3.5 hours by car.

Honestly, a day trip to Hallstatt from Vienna might not be as appealing as you’d think. While it’s doable to visit Hallstatt in a day from Vienna, I wouldn’t always recommend it .

You should find a day trip to Hallstatt from Vienna more pleasant during the low season , when it’s not as crowded with tourists.

Hallstatt has been experiencing the strain of overtourism recently . If you’re coming from Vienna for a day trip, expect to encounter crowds during midday, which can diminish the overall experience.

It’s typically recommended to spend a couple of days and a night in Hallstatt to truly appreciate its charm , often best observed from late afternoon, overnight, and into the early morning.

One instance that you should go for a day trip to Hallstatt from Vienna is when you don’t foresee another trip to Austria in the near future .

Why, you ask? Well, visiting Hallstatt can be a once-in-a-lifetime experience ! Since you’re already in Austria, seize the opportunity to witness this slice of paradise on earth.

Should you decide to visit Hallstatt, the official website can be found in the resources section of this post, providing a helpful tool for planning your activities.

If planning isn’t your thing or you’re pressed for time, there’s a day tour from Vienna to Hallstatt that will whisk you away to this magnificent destination with no effort required. Below are your options:

• Hallstatt & Alpine Peaks Day Trip with Skywalk Lift (Top pick by thousands of travelers)
• Hallstatt and more destinations in Salzkammergut (Best seller)

#6 St. Gilgen (Salzkammergut, Salzburg)

Looking for a day trip option to Hallstatt that feels like it’s right out of a movie scene ?

You’ll want to check out St. Gilgen . Actually, St. Gilgen is a village that you might recognize from a movie: The Sound of Music . It’s featured right in the opening scenes .

There, you’ll unmistakably see St. Gilgen, cozily nestled beside Wolfgangsee and surrounded by the Austrian Alps . It’s a truly picturesque location.

St. Gilgen becomes even more enchanting as you begin to explore the village.

The homes here are charming, adorned with murals that grace their facades . It’s a genuine alpine village, reminiscent of those you’d find in Bavaria and Tyrol. Just wait until you find yourself in Mozartplatz , the village’s heart. You’ll absolutely delight in wandering around!

The fun never stops in St. Gilgen though.

If you find yourself with some spare time during your day trip from Vienna to St. Gilgen, consider taking a cable car ride up a mountain . It offers a panoramic view of the stunning alpine landscape.

Remarkably, St. Gilgen also boasts a hidden gem: The Musical Instruments Museum .

During your visit, you’ll have the opportunity to view an extensive collection of some of the rarest musical instruments and hear the inspiring story of the owner , who personally guides visitors through his museum.

Considering a trip to St. Gilgen? Located near Salzburg, St. Gilgen is frequently paired with this Austrian city , another stunning destination for a day trip from Vienna.

They’re just 36 kilometers or 22 miles apart—a 30-minute car ride or an hour by bus. Traveling directly from Vienna , however, you can anticipate a 3.5-hour journey to St. Gilgen , whether you’re driving or using public transportation.

Learn more about St. Gilgen and other day trips here .

#7 Salzburg

If there’s one city in Austria that should be your top choice for a day trip from Vienna , it’s undoubtedly Salzburg .

Nestled near or within the Alps, this town is renowned for its stunning landscape , its connection to The Sound of Music , and the enduring legacy of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart .

Salzburg boasts a unique mix of

• natural beauty (like the Kapuzinerberg and Monchsberg mountains),
• historical landmarks , a rich musical legacy (including Mozart’s birthplace and concerts), and
• cultural experiences (such as The Sound of Music ) that make the city an absolute must-visit.

From the commanding Hohensalzburg fortress perched on a hilltop to the concerts held within the grand interiors of Salzburg Cathedral , and the scenic gardens of Mirabell Palace , I’m thoroughly enchanted by the beauty of Salzburg , and I’m confident you will be too !

And we mustn’t overlook the unique attractions and activities that Salzburg offers . No matter what kind of traveler you are, a day spent here is sure to be unforgettable.

In terms of direct distance from Vienna, Salzburg is the most distant among the day trip destinations I’ve discussed. However, reaching it from Vienna is as simple as a single train ride , albeit around 2.5 hours in duration .

If you choose to drive from Vienna to Salzburg, it might take a bit longer, but it affords you the opportunity to visit other day trip spots in Austria en route .

Learn more about Salzburg and other day trips here .

Combo Day Trips

As you may have discovered from earlier, it’s entirely possible to visit two or three Austrian destinations on a day trip from Vienna . If you’re pressed for time but eager to experience more of Austria , this could be your best option.

Hiring a private car or joining a tour can ensure a smooth travel experience, particularly if you’re keen to explore Salzburg, Melk Abbey, and the Salzkammergut Region — some of Austria’s most stunning locations .

Some even refer to this as the ‘Grand Tour of Austria From Vienna .’

Be sure to check the list below for day tour options to experience these beautiful Austrian sites from Vienna.

• Small Group (individual): Melk, Hallstatt & Salzburg
• Private tour: Melk, Hallstatt & Salzburg  

Considering the castles I brought up earlier?

In my opinion, if you’re an all-around traveler, they offer a nice day trip if you’re looking for less-traveled destinations or want to try something not yet on everyone’s radar . It might be a way to make your Vienna trip stand out from the typical.

For those who love to wander and are drawn to romantic destinations, always seeking a castle on their itineraries , I lean towards Kreuzenstein Castle for its mix of German and Gothic architectural styles. It seems more magical than the rest.

On the other hand, if castles are your thing and you want to dedicate a whole day to castle sightseeing, the pairing of Liechtenstein Castle and Laxenburg Castle Park is an easier option since they’re both located south of Vienna.

So, that concludes my list of seven stunning day trips from Vienna. I hope I’ve been able to inspire you with some fantastic ideas for other places to visit in Austria from Vienna. As promised, here are the resources that can assist you further in planning your trips.

• Arrival at Hallstatt
• Hallstatt weather forecast
• Sights and attractions in Hallstatt
• List of Day Trips from Vienna

Plan Your Trip Now

Here are my recommended services

• Great Accommodation Deals
• Cheap Car Rental
• Convenient Airport Transfers
• Public Transpo Ticket Reservation (Train, Ferries, Flights & More)
• Amazing Guides, Tours, & Transfers
• Skip-The-Line Admission Tickets
• Travel Insurance
• Luggage Storage
• Affordable Motorcycles & Bicycles Rental
• eSim (Internet Virtually Everywhere)

Explore more amazing destinations in Vienna and find guides to help you get the most out of your trip!

Guides & Itineraries

Lists & New Ideas

Top Attractions

Similar Posts

All You Need to Know Before Visiting Schonbrunn Palace

From the vast picturesque garden to the stunning regal halls & fascinating museums, there’s so much to see in Schonbrunn Palace. Allow me to guide you to each.

Inside Hofkirche (Court Church) — Innsbruck’s Hidden Gem

Innsbruck Hofkirche is one of the most surprising attractions in the town. You’ll surely marvel at the ‘Black Men’ & the cenotaph of Maximilian I inside it!

30 Little Gems in Old Town Vienna (See Them on a Map)

Maximize your exploration of Old Town Vienna by visiting the lesser-known but incredible attractions that dot the area. See a map to see their locations quickly

Tirol Panorama Museum: A Quick Look Inside This Masterpiece

The Tirol Panorama Museum is Innsbruck’s best museum. I am overwhelmed by the GIANT panorama inside it! Here’s everything you need to know about this museum.

5 Beautiful Reasons to Visit Mirabell Palace & Gardens

Take in the beauty of Mirabell Palace. Explore the filming locations of The Sound of Music. And discover the unique experiences that make it a must-visit spot.

Seven Beautiful Things That I Discovered in Salzburg

Salzburg is one of the most beautiful cities in Austria. If you want to see how and why, my seven beautiful discoveries will guide you. Check them out!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

16 Top-Rated Day Trips from Vienna

Written by Joni Sweet Updated Apr 15, 2024 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Thanks to its setting on the banks of the Danube in the northeastern foothills of the Alps, the area around Vienna offers an abundance of beautiful scenery to explore. Tall mountain peaks plunge to emerald river valleys, and you'll see quaint villages nestling against this breathtaking backdrop.

The city's central location makes it a convenient base for day trips to some of the nearby towns and villages. Here, you'll find magnificent abbeys, opulent palaces, and historic attractions. If you're willing to venture a bit farther, you could take a day trip to Budapest, Prague, Hallstatt, and Salzburg easily by train, bus, or car from Vienna.

Express trains that run through Vienna include Railjets , RegioJet , InterCity Express, EuroCity, and WESTbahn . These are great options for reaching farther-flung day trips and weekend destinations. FlixBus also offers bus transportation from five departure points in Vienna to places like Bratislava and Brno.

If you prefer driving , Austria is a safe, easy place to be behind the wheel. Roadways are well-marked with signage. All of the toll roads — which include the Autobahn freeways, Bundesstraße federal highways, and Schnellstraßen expressways — are cashless, though, so be sure to get a vignette (pre-paid toll sticker) for your windshield if your rental doesn't already have one. Austria also requires drivers to have an international driver's permit if they don't have an EU/EEA driving license.

From the beautiful Vienna Woods to snowcapped mountain peaks; from lovely old palaces to exciting day trips by boat, rail, and road, the city offers some of the best scenery in Austria right on its doorstep. Discover other rewarding places to visit with our list of the best day trips from Vienna.

The Wachau Valley and Melk Abbey

Klosterneuburg abbey, the vienna woods, the roman town of carnuntum, lainzer wildlife park and baden bei wien, the village of grinzing, beethoven's heiligenstadt, haydn's birthplace and rohrau castle, danube boat tours, eisenstadt and schloss esterházy, laa an der thaya, map of day trips from vienna.

Located about 80 kilometers from Vienna , the beautiful Wachau Valley is a World Heritage Site due to its spectacular scenery and rich history and culture. It stretches for about 40 kilometers between the towns of Melk and Krems.

Driving is the easiest way to take a day trip to the Wachau Valley from Vienna. You can take the A22 motorway to Stockerau, then take the interchange to S5 until you reach the Krems exit. Keep in mind these are toll roads. Many rental cars in Austria come with a physical or digital sticker to cover the tolls, but if you've driven in from another country, you may need to buy one from a gas station or newsstand.

After that, you can take your time enjoying valley views by car on the Romantic Road of Austria , which runs along the Danube. The riverside road snakes through the valley's heart, past picturesque monasteries, grand castles, villages, and vine-draped hills, conjuring a scene from medieval times. The area is also a hot spot for foodies and is one of the most popular places to visit near Vienna.

You can take a roundabout just after Schalemmersdorf to cross the Danube and head to Melk . One of Melk's top attractions is the magnificent Benedictine Melk Abbey, perched high on a hilltop overlooking the Danube River. Highlights include its octagonal domed entrance gate; the Imperial Corridor, lined with priceless art; the museum; the frescoed Marble Hall; and the lovely gardens. The Abbey Church, with its symmetrical twin towers and impressive 18th-century ceiling paintings, is known as one of the finest Baroque churches north of the Alps.

Organized Tour: An easy way to explore the Wachau Valley, without the stress of driving and possibly missing the highlights, is the Melk Abbey and Danube Valley Day Trip . This full-day excursion begins with an air-conditioned coach ride through the beautiful Wachau Valley, while an experienced guide shares information about the history and attractions in the area. It continues with a stop at the medieval castle ruins of Burgruine Dürnstein.

In summer, the tour includes a relaxing cruise down the Danube River to Melk, where you can explore the magnificent Benedictine Melk Abbey. In winter, you can enjoy a walking tour and a hearty Austrian lunch in a local restaurant. Pickup from select hotels and entry to the abbey are also included.

About 240 kilometers from Vienna , Budapest is affectionately known as the "Paris of the East." It sits in a beautiful location astride the Danube River and is one of the most picturesque cities in all of Europe.

Getting to Budapest is a long day trip , no matter how you travel, but it's worth it for the wealth of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, breathtaking architecture spanning styles from Baroque to Neoclassical and Art Nouveau, and the chance to soak in the city's famous therapeutic springs.

The best way to get there is on the Railjet high-speed train , which goes from Budapest to Vienna in about 2.5 hours . Regional trains are an option, but they tend to be slower and you may need to transfer several times. FlixBus also runs a direct bus route that takes just over 3 hours — but traffic could mean major delays on the road.

Driving a car yourself is another option if you want the independence of being able to stop at various destinations along the way. The M1 motorway directly connects Vienna to Budapest, so it's a straightforward drive.

If you're feeling stiff from the drive or train ride, make a beeline to one of Budapest's famous bathhouses for a long soak. The Széchenyi Thermal Bath has a mix of outdoor pools and indoor soaking tubs of different temperatures (not to mention its Baroque Revival architecture, which feels oh so Budapest!). Gellért Spa also offers fantastic bathing facilities, each fed from deep underground springs. Its plunge pools feel deeply refreshing (followed by a hot soak, of course!) after a long day of travel. You can buy tickets online or at the entrance of either bathhouse.

Amp up your day of sightseeing by visiting multiple tourist attractions in one venue: City Woodland Park is home to an impressive line-up of museums, as well as the stunning Vajdahunyad Castle . You could spend days here exploring all the cultural jewels.

Organized Tour: Consider hopping on the Budapest Day Trip from Vienna tour and let a driver and guide take care of the navigation. The 13-hour tour takes you to many of the city's most famous landmarks. Vajdahunyad Castle, the Parliament Buildings, Heroes' Square, and the Hungarian State Opera are just some of the highlights. This full-day tour includes pickup from select hotels, a scenic drive through the Hungarian countryside, a walking tour through Buda, and a city tour on an air-conditioned coach. You'll be dropped off at the Vienna State Opera after the tour.

Given how long it takes to reach Budapest, consider upgrading your day trip to a weekend getaway from Vienna. Budapest's top attractions, including World Heritage-listed Castle Hill , home to the 18th-century Buda Castle ; the late-19th-century Fisherman's Bastion and Matthias Church ; the magnificent Parliament buildings ; and Heroes' Square will make your weekend one to remember.

About 295 kilometers from Vienna , Salzburg is another of Europe's beauty queens. Beset with elegant buildings and surrounded by mountains, this picturesque city straddles the River Salzach and is famous as the birthplace of Mozart, as well as the setting for the film The Sound of Music .

Like other day trip destinations from Vienna, Salzburg is best reached by train or car . The WESTbahn train can get you from Wien Westbahnhof station in Vienna to Salzburg in about 2.5 hours and runs every half hour throughout much of the day. ÖBB Railjet also offers frequent high-speed trains from Vienna Hauptbahnhof to Salzburg that take 2.5 to 3 hours.

Driving is a breeze, too. Simply take the A1 from Vienna to exit 288-Salzburg. However, keep in mind that Salzburg has very limited parking, and all lots downtown are for short-term use only, so you'll have to move your car at least every three hours.

Salzburg feels like a fairytale the moment you step foot in its World Heritage-listed Old Town, with its beautiful Baroque architecture and the Salzburg Cathedral ; Hohensalzburg Castle; Mozart's Birthplace, one of the world's most popular museums; and the gorgeous Mirabell Palace and gardens, where the Von Trapp children famously frolicked. It's compact enough that you can see many of the top attractions in Salzburg on a day trip if you are on a tight schedule.

A great place to begin a walking tour of the city is from the Residenzplatz , one of the city's largest squares and home to the Residenzbrunnen , an impressive marble fountain by Italian sculptor Tommaso di Garone.

If you have a little extra time, it's worth taking the bus 10 kilometers south of the city to the Untersbergbahn (cable car). Zipping from Salzburg's lush green landscape to the rocky, snow-covered 1,805-meter-tall Geiereck summit on the 8.5-minute gondola ride felt like magic to me. Grab a coffee at the quaint cafe at the top and soak up all the glorious views. From start to finish, you can take this excursion in about 3 hours.

Organized Tour: The Salzburg Day Trip is a full-day adventure and one of the best day trips from Vienna to Salzburg. It includes plenty of photo opportunities on the spectacular drive through the Austrian Alps. You'll pass by the beautiful clear lakes and mountains of Salzkammergut as you make your way to Salzburg for a walking tour of Mozart's hometown and several major attractions.

Hallstatt is quite simply one of the most picture-perfect places to visit in Austria. Cute 16th-century cottages with flower-draped balconies cluster along an achingly gorgeous lake, backed by rugged Alpine peaks. Seeming to add an exclamation point to all this beauty is the slender spire of the Evangelical Church of Hallstatt. No wonder both the village and the lake are classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site .

Hallstatt lies about 290 kilometers from Vienna in the Salzkammergut region. Unfortunately, it's not easy to reach by train or bus. The journey by public transportation is long and will require several transfers, so driving yourself is the best way to get to Hallstatt from Vienna . It takes about 3.5 hours each way depending on traffic, but it's a pretty simple route. Take the B1 to the A1 motorway and follow it for about 215 kilometers to exit 244-Regau. Then follow B145 and the Austrian Romantic Road to Hallstatt.

Going from Vienna to Hallstatt and back again on the same day is a lot of time behind the wheel, but you can relax and enjoy the scenery on an organized Hallstatt Day Trip from Vienna . Led by an expert guide, you'll take a walking tour to see Hallstatt's top attractions . In the summer, the tour includes a boat ride on Lake Hallstatt, while the winter tour includes a visit to the Hallstatt ossuary. Your camera will get a workout in this breathtakingly beautiful region.

Bristling with spires and breathtaking architecture, Prague has a beautifully preserved old town, which is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It's about 295 kilometers from Vienna, a long day trip, but it is possible to make it there and back in a day and get a great feel for the city.

Whether you drive or take the train, the journey will take about four hours . By car, take the A5 motorway from Vienna across the border to the Czech Republic. Continue heading north until you reach Brno, then go northwest on D1/E65 to Prague. As for the train, RegioJet offers a direct route from Vienna's main train station to Prague several times each day.

The Old Town Square is a wonderful place to begin a walking tour. From here, you can visit many evocative old churches, including the famous Týn Church, and the Jewish Quarter .

Other top things to do in Prague include visiting Prague Castle , with St. Vitus Basilica , St. George's Basilica, and the Old Royal Palace ; and exploring Wenceslas Square in Prague's New Town, which is also home to the National Museum, as well as fantastic shopping and restaurants.

Also save time for a stroll across the famous Charles Bridge and try to see a performance at the National Theatre .

If you want to take a load off after all that travel and sightseeing, head to Vysehrad Park . You can relax on the lush green lawn near the medieval castle and take in the views on the east bank of the Vltava River. Take selfies from the ledge at the South Gardens at the Prague Castle and use all the red-roofed houses as a postcard-perfect backdrop. Another fun thing to do in Prague is to pose for a photo strip at the Fotoautomat, Prague's oldest photo booth, located just outside the National Theater. It's one of less than 50 vintage analog photobooths still functioning worldwide.

To squeeze in as much as possible on a visit here, consider the Prague Day Trip from Vienna . This well-planned 14-hour tour takes you through the pretty Moravia countryside to Prague for a 2.5-hour guided city tour to see sights such as Charles Bridge, the Old Town Square, Wenceslas Square, and the National Theatre.

Less than 70 kilometers from Vienna , Slovakia's capital, Bratislava, is an affordable, fun, and easy day out. Old abuts new in this vibrant city, where 18th-century buildings line the streets of the old town, and Soviet-era architecture sits not far beyond. If you're looking for relatively cheap trips from Vienna, this is a great option.

Trains, which take anywhere from 60 to 80 minutes , depart from the main station in Vienna to Bratislava hlavná stanica (the central railway station in the Slovakian capital) throughout the day. Advanced reservations are not required and you can buy a ticket from the vending machine in the station.

The Danube slices through the city, and Bratislava Castle is the focal point, perched on a plateau above the river, with its stark white walls and red-tile roof.

Start your tour in the pedestrian-only 18th-century old town, where you'll find the old town hall , home to Bratislava City Museum, and Michael's Gate from the original medieval fortifications, as well as many restaurants and sidewalk cafés.

Another of Bratislava's top attractions is Grassalkovich Palace , where, the president of Slovakia resides, and if you feel like getting back to nature, hiking trails lace the surrounding Little Carpathian mountains, close to the city.

A fun way to travel from Vienna to Bratislava and explore the city without the stress of navigating your way around is the Bratislava Day Trip tour. This full-day excursion includes a comfortable coach trip to the capital, a walking tour of the old town and all its attractions, and a visit to the Rococo-style Grassalkovich Palace. End your day with a high-speed catamaran trip down the Danube on the return journey.

At the edge of the Vienna Woods just 14 kilometers away from Vienna , the Augustinian abbey in the small town of Klosterneuburg attracts many visitors. Perched high above the Danube, Klosterneuburg Abbey (Stiftes Klosterneuburg) was founded in the 12th century, and many newer buildings were added in the 18th and 19th centuries.

You can get there by taking the D tram from Vienna Hauptbahnhof Ost S to Franz Josefs Bahnhof S, then transferring to the S 40 train and getting off at Klosterneuburg Kierling Bahnhof. It's an 11-minute walk from the station to the abbey.

Highlights of this sprawling complex are the church, with its Romanesque and Baroque features, the Leopold Courtyard, and the monastery vaults. The famous Verduner Altar in the Leopold Chapel is especially noteworthy and consists of 45 enameled panels dating from 1181. The newer Baroque building has two copper domes, one surmounted by the German Imperial Crown, the other by the Lower Austrian Archducal Bonnet.

Other notable features include the Baroque main staircase; the Marble Hall, with its fine frescoes; the Imperial Apartment; the Tapestry Room; the Treasury; and the Monastery Museum.

Also of interest is the nearby town of Kierling , with its Kafka Memorial set up in the very room of the sanatorium where the famed writer spent his last days.

Address: Stiftsplatz 1, 3400 Klosterneuburg

Fabled in song and a favorite getaway for the Viennese, the Vienna Woods also holds a number of interesting attractions for tourists, including a beautiful monastery, historic sites, and natural wonders.

A good place to begin is atop the 484-meter Kahlenberg . This is Vienna's own "mini-mountain," with magnificent views across the city and the Danube all the way to the Little Carpathians and the Schneeberg region.

The Baroque Kahlenberg Church (St. Josef auf dem Kahlenberg) was built on the spot where Polish Prince Sobieski beat the Turkish army besieging Vienna. The Cistercian Abbey of Heiligenkreuz , constructed in 1133, is the oldest continuously occupied Cistercian monastery in the world and one of the most beautiful medieval monasteries. Its highlights include the vaulted Romanesque nave (1187); the 13th-century ribbed vaulting; and the 13th-century choir, considered a masterpiece of Austrian Gothic.

Also in the Vienna Woods is Mayerling , a former imperial hunting lodge. Here, in 1889 the only son of Emperor Franz Joseph and the Empress Elizabeth, Crown Prince Rudolph, was found dead with his mistress Baroness Vetsera, an event that rocked the imperial court.

The largest underground lake in Europe, the Seegrotte was formed when a former gypsum mine was flooded, and you can take a boat ride through its subterranean caverns and passages.

A good way to combine many of these sights is on the Vienna Woods and Mayerling Half Day Trip , which includes guided visits to the Abbey of Heiligenkreuz and Mayerling hunting lodge; a guided walk through the city of Baden; and a scenic ride through the Vienna Woods, past the fairy-tale Liechtenstein Castle .

Address: Kahlenberg, 1190 Wien

Fields, meadows, vines, and woodland are the distinctive features of the pretty March-Donauland region to the east of Vienna. It was here that many famous battles were fought, including one against the Romans and, centuries later, against the Hungarians, the Turks, and the French under Napoleon.

The region was perhaps most important to the Roman Empire, as witnessed in the spectacular ruins of the fortified town they built here, once home to a population of more than 50,000. Now part of a superb historic attraction, Archaeological Park Carnuntum is a reconstruction of the key buildings from the 1st-century town, including a city mansion, a citizen's house, and Roman baths, as well as a semi-reconstructed practice arena of a gladiator school that was discovered in 2011. The park offers fun events and programs for the whole family.

It's about 42 kilometers away from Vienna and can be reached by train. Take the S7 from Wien Rennweg for 53 minutes to Petronell-Carnuntum Bahnhof, then walk 15 minutes (or take a taxi) to the archeological park.

Address: Hauptstrasse 1a, 2404 Petronell-Carnuntum

Just 26 kilometers from Vienna , the Lainzer Wildlife Park (Lainzer Tiergarten) occupies 24 square kilometers of the Vienna Woods. Famous as a place of relaxation and escape from the big city, it's a haven for old oak and beech trees (some more than 350 years old), as well as wildlife such as deer and boar. Once the hunting reserve of Emperor Joseph II, it was fenced off with a 24-kilometer-long stonewall in 1787 on the orders of Empress Maria Theresa.

Opened to the public in 1921, this important conservation area includes more than 80 kilometers of footpaths and the 14-meter-high Hubertuswarte observation tower on the Kaltbründlberg.

Another tourist attraction on the edge of the Vienna Woods is Baden bei Wien , a spa town famous for its curative waters (the Romans called the town Aquae). Today, nearly 2,000 years later, the town's sulfur springs still spew out six-and-a-half million liters of therapeutic warm water every day.

Address: Hietzing-West, 1130 Wien

Just 17 kilometers northeast of Vienna , the pretty little village of Grinzing was first mentioned in 1114. Destroyed numerous times by war, the current structures in the village date predominantly from the 19th century, and its wooded setting, quaint gardens, and winding streets, make it a fun place to explore.

Grinzing is also unique in that local laws allow individuals to purchase tiny plots of land where vines may be grown. It's also well known for its many typical Austrian restaurants (Heuriger), famous for indicating whether they're open by placing branches of spruce over their entrances. The area is also popular among hikers, especially for the trails around the nearby Kahlenberg and Leopoldsberg hills.

The oldest of the "Viennese villages" on the city's outskirts, Heiligenstadt was incorporated into the district of Döbling in 1892 and is famous for its quiet, narrow winding streets, especially around the historic homes of Probusgasse and Armbrustergasse. It's located about 9 kilometers from central Vienna .

Be sure to roam around St. Jacob's Church on the Pfarrplatz, built in Romanesque style on Roman foundations.

Heiligenstadt's most important claim to fame, however, was the fact it was visited several times by Ludwig von Beethoven, including in the autumn of 1802 while working on his Second Symphony. It was here, at 6 Probusgasse, that he wrote his Heiligenstadt Testament, a letter to his brothers in which he bemoans his increasing deafness (and which he never sent). The home is now a museum - the Beethoven Wohnung Heiligenstadt - dedicated to this period in the composer's life. (Later a resident of Vienna, Beethoven is buried in the Zentralfriedhof , the city's largest cemetery.)

Address: Probusgasse 6, 1190 Vienna

Famous as the birthplace of composer Joseph Haydn in 1732, a trip to Rohrau — just 46 kilometers east of Vienna — is a pleasant way to spend a day. A museum dedicated to the great composer is now housed in the small thatched farmhouse where he was born, and boasts numerous fascinating exhibits and artifacts relating to his life.

Also open is the actual room in which he was born, refurbished as it would have been at the time. Another highlight of a visit to Rohrau is the castle that once belonged to Count von Harrach. This splendid attraction is now a fine arts museum possessing the Count's vast collection of paintings - all told, more than 200 paintings are held here, including works by Rubens and Van Dyck.

Address: Schloss Rohrau 1, 2471 Rohrau

A trip along the Danube by boat, through the Danube Valley, offers you the chance to see some of the most beautiful scenery around Vienna. Destinations include cities such as Budapest and Bratislava (up to four days round-trip), or simply a short one- or two-hour jaunt.

In the other direction (upstream) the Danube leads to the Wachau Valley or to Melk with its famous abbey. A variety of fun themed cruises are also available, from fine dining to classic ballroom dancing in the evenings. Alternatively, visitors can hire a boat taxi to explore Vienna from the water.

About 62 kilometers south of Vienna , picturesque Eisenstadt is famous for its connection to one of Austria's greatest composers: Joseph Haydn. Haydn lived here for many years, and today his house serves as a museum celebrating his life and times (he was buried in the Bergkirche above the town). Bus 200 or the REX 64 train can get you there in less than an hour and 15 minutes from Vienna.

Be sure to explore the lovely Old Town , also known as Freistadt (Free Town), traversed by three long streets opening off the main square: Hauptstrasse, Pfarrgasse, and Haydngasse. It's here you'll find the 17th-century Town Hall (Rathaus).

Afterwards, head to Schloss Esterházy , the former palace of Prince Esterházy. Originally a medieval stronghold, it was rebuilt in Baroque style in 1672, with its stunning rear façade remodeled in neoclassical style between 1797 and 1805. Highlights of a visit include the exquisite Haydn Room, with its colorful frescoes and busts (English language guided tours are available).

Laa an der Thaya lies about 68 kilometers north of Vienna on the Czech frontier . Highlights of a visit include the remains of the town's medieval walls and the massive moated 13th-century castle - Laa Castle - with its well-preserved battlements and towers, and fine panoramic views.

Try to visit the Old Town Hall (Altes Rathaus), home of the Südmährermuseum Thayaland , an informative local history museum with displays of artifacts and traditional clothing.

Other notable highlights include the 13th-century Gothic parish church of St. Vitus, with its High Altar dating from 1740, and the Plague and Trinity columns from 1680.

More on Austria

• Cabins & Lodges
• Apartments & houses
• New South Wales
• South Australia
• Western Australia
• Northern Territory
• Norfolk Island
• New Zealand
• Switzerland
• Middle East
• Southeast Asia
• Antarctica & Arctic
• Coach, Group & Escorted
• Special Interest
• Tours & Sightseeing
• Scenic Flights & Heli Tours
• All-Inclusive Packages
• Restaurants
• Wine & Dine
• Street Food
• Art & Culture
• Shopping & Markets
• Rail Journeys
• Ski & snowboard
• Walks & Treks
• Dive & Water Sports
• Parks & Reserves
• Theme & Amusement Parks
• Spa & Wellness
• Global Village
• Money & Rewards
• Tried & Tested
• Interviews & Profiles
• Deals & Itineraries

Subscribe to the magazine

• Vacations & Travel on Facebook
• Vacations & Travel on LinkedIn
• Vacations & Travel on Instagram
• Vacations & Travel on YouTube

V&T Newsletter

Love inspiring travel stories and exciting competitions? Get the latest news delivered to your inbox.

The Vienna Alps: Scenic adventures in Austria’s mountain wilderness

• facebook-f-brands (1)
• twitter-brands (1)
• linkedin-in-brands
• envelope-solid

A remarkable wilderness area on the outskirts of the Austrian capital, the Vienna A lps has become a poster child for health, wellness and adventure.

For centuries, Austria’s Vienna Alps have attracted royalty, wealthy aristocrats, notable artists and intellectuals. Those seeking a natural endorphin high amid bucolic countryside are amazed to find it just an hour from the capital. This is a place that takes your breath away in more ways than one. Picture lofty mountains easing into pretty valleys, where swoon-worthy towns and holiday resorts sit. Or imagine yourself exploring famous destinations like Bucklige Welt, Wechsel, Semmering, Rax, Schneeberg, the Gutenstein Alps and Hohe Wand.

Famous faces of the Alps

The Alps near Vienna were frequented by the likes of Sigmund Freud. Back in the day, Freud vacationed at mountain inn Ottohaus at the Rax. Famously, this is where he performed his first psychoanalysis – on the innkeeper’s daughter.

Additionally, the Vienna Alps inspired other great minds, like neurologist and psychiatrist Viktor Frankl. The founder of logotherapy and existential analysis climbed the rocky 1,500-metre-high Rax. Using various routes to scale up the mountain, he proclaimed it taught him about life.

Meanwhile, influential European architect Adolf Loos, of Viennese Modernism fame, also fell in love with the area. Later he built The Looshaus, which he designed as a country house on Kreuzberg mountain in 1928.

The Austrian Alps legendary rail journeys

The Alps near Vienna also inspired engineering pioneers, like the team that masterminded the Semmering Railway in the mid-1800s. This entered record books as the first standard-gauge mountain railway in Europe. UNESCO World Heritage status was given more than a century later. The 41-kilometre trip from Gloggnitz to Mürzzuschlag climbs 459 metres and crosses 16 viaducts. There are also 14 tunnels and 118 arched railway bridges to gaze at. It’s a photographer’s dream, the train’s red carriages like a beacon gliding through Austria mountain landscapes.

Some 50 years after Semmering, the Vienna Alps welcomed yet another now-legendary rail route: the Schneeberg Railway. This was the first cog railway steam train that chugged up the Schneeberg, the highest mountain in Lower Austria . Today, it takes just 40 minutes on a modern Salamander train. The route whisks passengers to Hochschneeberg station at an elevation of 1,800 metres. In summer, you can add a dose of nostalgia and catch a vintage steam train on Sundays and holidays.

Be sure to alight at Baumgartner station, where you can order Schneeberg buchteln – addictive sweet rolls filled with jam. When you reach the summit, prepare for dizzying heights along the Panorama Paradise trail. Up here, the views across the Vienna Alps quite literally stop you in your tracks.

Vienna Alps hiking: First Water Pipeline Trail

If you’re looking for a more energetic way to see the Alps near Vienna, you’re in luck. The region is home to some spectacular walking and hiking trails, all within easy reach of the city centre.

Lace-up your hiking shoes and explore the Vienna Water Pipe Trail. This beautiful route commemorates the construction of the First Vienna Mountain Spring pipeline in 1873.  The pipeline sends valuable drinking water from the Kaiserbrunn springs in the Rax-Schneeberg area to Vienna. The feat takes some 36 hours, without the use of pumps and under strict regulations.

The Water Main Hiking Path along the course of the First Spring Water Main is comprised of two routes. Both are easy day trips from Vienna, making them perfect for a quick visit. But for those who want to linger on, make for any of a number of nearby charming towns.

Most beautiful towns in the Vienna Alps

Of these picture-perfect alpine towns, the most well-known is Wiener Neustadt. It’s home to an imposing castle of the same name, built using funds from the ransom of Richard the Lionheart. The castle features the oldest military academy in the world, created in 1751. Additionally, it’s the final resting place of Emperor Maximilian I.

Meanwhile, Neunkirchen is one of the oldest villages in the Vienna Alps, dating back 1094. Coffee houses, sweets shops and busy market stalls line the town’s atmospheric streets. Elsewhere, the mountain town of Gloggnitz dazzles with its medieval Catholic monastery. There’s also a grand chapel, palace and multiple mansions and manor houses to explore.

But perhaps the prettiest of them all is the lakeside town of Puchberg am Schneeberg. Snow-capped peaks, with hiking trails leading to castles and waterfalls, act as a backdrop to this health and spa resort. In the summer, visitors can catch outdoor shows by the waterside, where blooming flowers reflect in crystal-clear water. The tagline here is ‘close to heaven’. After a visit, it’s easy to see why.

A delicious taste of Alps Country

What do you crave after a day of fresh air and exercise? If it’s carbs, you’ve come to the right place. A must-try speciality of the Vienna Alps is panhans cake. This sweet treat has thin, individually baked hazelnut-lemon dough layers coated with apricot jam and vanilla pudding cream. Meanwhile, Reichenau biscuit rusks have been served at the Alber pastry shop since 1882 and make an excellent hiking snack. Finally, celebrate the end of a busy outdoors day with a chilled stinging nettle beer Nessi or a Himmelblau blonde ale.

Best places to stay in the Vienna Alps

Storied hotel or health resort? Mountain hut or modern abode? There are plenty of options when it comes to bedding down in the Vienna Alps.

The historic Südbahnhotel has been running since 1882. Given its dramatic façade, visitors will be unsurprised to hear it was once a palace. Meanwhile, Grand Hotel Panhans on the Semmering comes with a sprawling spa, ideal for mountain-weary limbs. In addition, Hotel Knappenhof at Reichenau an der Rax offers up even more pampering. Check-in here for a little slice of Austrian tradition at the foot of Rax.

Another option is the Looshaus hotel and restaurant on Kreuzberg, reflecting the uncluttered simplicity of Adolf Loos’ architecture. Finally, the pretty Schneeberghof in Puchberg offers sleek rooms inside a picturesque chalet. The kind that alpine dreams are made of.

Find out more about the Vienna Alps by visiting Austria Info .

Tags: Austria , The Alps , Vienna Alps

Travel Video We Love

Subscribe to our newsletter

Email address:

Latest Posts

Latest Features

Win a two-night stay at a Tiny Away home of your choice

The best Vienna day trips for fairytale scenery and stunning centuries-old architecture

Apr 2, 2022 • 8 min read

Pretty Salzburg is just a two-hour journey from Vienna © canadastock / Shutterstock

The once hallowed seat of the Habsburg Empire,  Vienna spoils travelers rotten with baroque palaces, fabled coffee houses and plenty of cultural pizzazz. 

But  Austria 's stirring, majestic capital also makes a great base for exploring some of the country’s other jewels. These are the best day trips from Vienna.

See storybook settings in Salzburg

Storybook Salzburg could easily steal a week of your time, but even a swift day trip from Vienna will leave you mesmerized. The whopping 900-year-old clifftop fortress  Festung Hohensalzburg  will eat up a whole morning, while a wander through the historic Altstadt will swallow up the rest. 

Not much has changed since Mozart was born and raised here 250 years ago, including St Peter’s Stiftskeller serving food. Allegedly Europe’s oldest restaurant, it's said to have been around since the 13th century. Booking remains essential. 

Don't go home without bingeing on baroque finery in the DomQuartier's cathedral and abbey, or sipping a potent stein of monk-made ale at Augustiner Bräustübl .

How to get to Salzburg: The Railjet express goes direct from Wien Hauptbahnhof to Salzburg in under two hours. Regional trains take around two-and-a-half hours. By car, the journey is around three hours.

Go for a stroll in the Vienna Woods

For some superb hiking and a taste of the mountains near Vienna, scamper across to the Wienerwald. Fringing the capital from the northwest to the southeast, this 45km (28-mile) swath of forested hills was immortalized in Tales from the Vienna Woods , Johann Strauss Jr's 1868 concert waltz.

There are 11 walks to choose from, all easy day trips from the city, but the best lead travelers into the forest. You'll need about three hours to complete the 7.2km (4.5-mile) trail No 4, which threads up to the Jubiläumswarte lookout tower. There are sweeping views of Vienna and the 2076m (1.3-mile) hump of Schneeberg from the uppermost platform. 

A slightly longer alternative is trail No 1, an 11km (6.8-mile) loop that starts in Nussdorf and climbs 484m (.3 miles) up Kahlenberg, a vine-streaked hill commanding fine city views.

How to get to the Wienerwald (Vienna Woods): For trail No 1, tram D takes 27 minutes from the Ring to Nussdorf. For trail No 4, tram line 49 takes 34 minutes from the Ring to Rettichgasse.

Hop across the border to Bratislava

A short zip across the border is Bratislava , the capital of Slovakia . Overlooked by a mighty Renaissance castle, it's easy to lose a morning wandering around the delightful old town, which merrily mixes medieval and Gothic architecture. 

The city's nucleus is Hlavné nám (Main Sq), where architectural finery shimmers in almost every direction, particularly the Stará Radnica (Old Town Hall). Across the city, look out for lashings of Soviet design, from scowling statues to the  space-age bridge . 

Try not to miss the art nouveau Blue Church , a powder blue place of worship dedicated to St Elisabeth of Hungary. If you’re in need of food, the city’s cellar restaurants serve huge helpings of dumplings and fried cheese. 

How to get to Bratislava: International trains take one hour from Vienna to Bratislava. The journey takes around the same by car.

See the subterranean lake at Seegrotte

This former limestone and gypsum mine, just over an hour from Vienna, closed in 1912 after a controlled explosion caused 20 million liters of water to flood its underground tunnels – an incident that created the largest subterranean lake in Europe . 

Now visitors can wander through its echoing chambers and enjoy a short boat ride out on its turquoise waters. There are also military artifacts on display, as the Nazis used the mine’s dry, upper sections to secretly build aircraft during WWII. Small group tours last 45 minutes.

How to get to Seegrotte: Take the Sbahn from Vienna to Meidling, change for bus 364 or 365, and alight at Seegrotte. The journey will take one hour 15 minutes. By car, the journey is around 30 minutes.

Wander the cobbled streets of Melk 

An easy and rewarding day trip from Vienna, Melk is high on the list for many travelers, most of whom call in for its blockbuster abbey-fortress , perched high above the Danube. The twin spires and high octagonal dome of the monastery church dominate the complex, but inside it's baroque gone barmy: a riot of chubby cherubs, barley-sugar twirls and polished faux marble.

Day-trippers stream in from Krems too, so the cobbled streets are busy year-round. Stop in on Schloss Schallaburg to see its remarkable 400 terracotta sculptures, each completed between 1572 and 1573, and wander past the Altes Posthaus, built in 1792. Not only is Mercury, the messenger of the gods, depicted in the stucco reliefs, but so too is postmaster Josef Weber Edler von Fürnberg.

How to get to Melk: The regional train from Wien Westbahnhof to Melk station takes around one hour and 15 minutes. By car, the journey is one hour and 10 minutes. 

Discover the arts and culture of Graz

Graz , Austria’s second-largest city, might be a smidge over two hours from Vienna by car, but it’s an instant heart-stealer: renaissance courtyards, baroque palaces, abundant parkland, sea of red rooftops and a beautiful bluff, connected to the center by steps, a funicular and a glass lift. 

But it's the absorbing architecture of Kunsthaus Graz , the provocative biomorphic art gallery dubbed the “friendly alien,” that takes visitors aback. Its contemporary design and exhibitions are at total odds with the traditional city, which makes it even more arresting.

For something equally striking but not quite as modern, check out Schloss Eggenberg , the elegant 17th-century palace with magnificent courtyard arcades by Italian master builder Giovanni Pietro de Pomis.

How to get to Graz: The train from Vienna to Graz takes around two hours 30 minutes. By car, the same journey is two hours 15 minutes.

Survey the scene in Budapest

It may take a couple hours to meander down to Budapest by car, but as the dual capital of the once-great Austro-Hungarian Empire, a day trip from Vienna can make for compelling comparisons. 

Start in the  Castle District , where Castle Hill , the nerve center of Budapest’s history, towers 170m (558ft) above the Danube. Survey the scene from  Fisherman's Bastion , a neo-Gothic viewing platform overlooking the vast blue river, built in 1905. Look north (left) for the Hungarian  Parliament  building, which many believe was inspired by London's Palace of Westminster. 

Spend some time at the Royal Palace , which has been bombed and rebuilt at least half a dozen times since King Béla IV established it in the mid-13th century, before heading across the river for some lunch. Then slowly work your way along Andrássy út and up to Heroes’ Square . Finish with a soak in one of the 18 thermal pools at Széchenyi Baths before heading home.

How to get to Budapest: Direct trains go from Vienna to Budapest in two hours and 37 minutes. By car, the same journey takes two-and-a-half hours.

Go for a bike ride in the Danube Valley

To see the grand Danube in all its dramatic glory, head to the Wachau. This romantic stretch of the Danube Valley , between Krems an der Donau and Melk, waltzes through poetic landscapes of terraced vineyards, forested slopes and apricot orchards, with the meandering river – and the imposing fortresses that loom over it –nearly always in sight.

Less than an hour by car, it’s a great spot for a cycle ride with children. Start in Krems an der Donau and take the B3 southwest towards Spitz, pedaling past the lovely town of Dürnstein, with its blue-towered Chorherrenstift backed by Kuenringerburg , the castle where Richard the Lionheart was imprisoned in 1192.

A couple of kilometers on, just after Wösendorf, you find the church of St Michael, in a hamlet with 13 houses. Get the kids to count the terracotta hares on the church roof. The pretty town of Spitz finally swings into view some 17km (10.6 miles) from Krems. Head to its  heurigen (wine taverns) for a much-deserved glass of wine before heading back.

How to get to the Danube Valley: The journey from Vienna to Krems an der Donau takes one hour 13 minutes by direct train and just under an hour by car.

Hit the slopes in Semmering 

Come December, when the powder sits plumply across the Austrian Alps, there are a number of easily accessible ski slopes from Vienna that can be visited in a day, including the resorts of Hauereck and Unterberg. 

Semmering , however, is the pick of the bunch. A long-term host of the FIS Alpine Ski World Cup races, it has 14km (8.7 miles) of slopes at Zauberberg and 26km (16.2 miles) at Stuhleck, and the night slopes at both are open until 8:30pm. 

How to get to Semmering: The train from Wien Hauptbahnhof to Semmering Bahnhof takes as little as one hour 16 minutes. The journey takes around one hour 50 minutes by car.

Skiers will love these city breaks in Austria and Germany

Soak up the scenery in Hallstatt

A few hours by car, a day trip from Vienna to Hallstatt is doable, but very taxing. Thought to be one of the inspirations behind the Disney film Frozen , this fairytale town is thronged with visitors who outnumber the locals by more than 10 to one.

Hallstatt’s beauty borders on the surreal and the sublime. Boats glide serenely across the lake from the train station to the village, situated precariously on a narrow stretch of land between mountain and shore.

If you want to visit in a single day, either get the first train from Vienna at 4:55am and arrive before the coaches, or stay overnight and wait for the day-trippers to leave, then enjoy a lakeside dinner in relative peace.

How to get to Hallstatt: Trains from Vienna to Hallstatt usually require a change at Wels or Attnang-Puchheim and take around three hours and 52 minutes. By car, the journey takes three-and-a-half hours.

You may also like: Best free things to do in Vienna 18 top things to do in Vienna The 7 best things to do in Vienna with kids

This article was first published Feb 27, 2019 and updated Apr 2, 2022.

Explore related stories

Sustainable Travel

Sep 3, 2024 • 7 min read

Plan your first Eurostar journey with our guide to routes, tickets, on board services and luggage.

Aug 7, 2024 • 9 min read

Aug 2, 2024 • 8 min read

Aug 2, 2024 • 5 min read

Jul 31, 2024 • 5 min read

Jul 28, 2024 • 6 min read

Jul 25, 2024 • 7 min read

Jul 24, 2024 • 7 min read

Jul 24, 2024 • 8 min read

Jul 23, 2024 • 6 min read

Home > Vienna Alps > Best Hiking Day Trips from Vienna to the Alps

August 19, 2024

Best hiking day trips from vienna to the alps, active life , guide , hiking, top attractions:, history guide to schönbrunn palace gardens, zoo & monuments, vienna.

• Vienna Alps

Quick Navigation

What are the Viennese Alps?

Let it be clear, technically there is no such thing as the Viennese Alps, but for pragmatic reasons, it is common to use the name “Vienna Hausberge”, when referring to the mountains, located close to the Capital of Austria. Just don‘t be mistaken, this is not Salzburg or Innsbruck – mountains do not surround Viena. Unless it is a clear day and you are on a rooftop, it is impossible to see the Alps from the city itself. The Viennese Alps are, more or less, the Alps, which could be reached within an hour or two from the Capital. Basically, this includes all the mountains within Lower Austria.

On the horizon, to the right of Stephansplatz, the two peaks of Mount Schneeberg are visible. Photo by Alis Monte [ CC BY-SA 4.0 ], via Connecting the Dots

At first glance, due to the lack of information in English, it might look like there ain’t that many hikes in the Alps near Vienna, but the reality couldn‘t be more different. The whole country is covered by an enormous maze of hiking trails and Lower Austria is no exception. Therefore, sometimes it is hard to tell wherever it might be the beginning or the end of the hike. Nevertheless, once you get familiar with the Austrian public transport system and the regions, it won‘t be that hard to find good hikes in the Viennese Alps yourself. Believe me, it is a wonder, which will grasp you and never let apart.

2,076 m / 6,811 ft makes Schneeberg the highest mountain in the Viennese Alps. Photo by Alis Monte [ CC BY-SA 4.0 ], via Connecting the Dots

What is required is the first steps and let it be baby steps. You have to start somewhere. The goal of this article is exactly that – the beginners’ guide to finding the best hiking trails in each region of the Viennese Alps. All of the hiking and outdoor destinations listed in this article could be reached by public transport.

Viennese Alps Details

• Region: Lower Austria
• Mountains: Eastern Alps
• Highest point: Schneebrg (2,076 m / 6,811 ft)
• Good accomondation: Payerbach – Reichenau , Puchberg am Schneeberg & Semmering
• Weather: Viennsese Alps forecast 
• Emergency number: 140 and 112

Spring might be the best time to visit the Viennese Alps. Photo by Alis Monte [ CC BY-SA 4.0 ], via Connecting the Dots

Hiking in Semmering Pass

Without a doubt, out of all regions in the Viennese Alps, Semmering must be the best destination for casual hikers. Of course, that doesn‘t mean there is nothing to do or to see for more experienced outdoor enthusiasts. Semmering was my personal choice for the first trip to the mountains from Vienna and I keep coming back ever since. There are plenty of reasons for that.

First, Semmering has a great connection with Vienna. You won‘t need to take a bus to get into the heart of the area, the train will take you straight to it. Semmering train station is located at 895 m / 2,936 ft above sea level, and as a matter of fact, Semmering Railway is considered to be the first true mountain railway in the world. For this reason, most of the best hiking routes are located by the railway. It connects two Austrian states: Styria and Lower Austria, this border marks the boundary between the Rax-Schneeberg Group and furtherly located Mürzsteg Alps . This pretty much defines the landscape of the Semmering Pass.

“20 Schilling Blick” is one of the most iconic viewpoints in Lower Austria. Photo by Alis Monte [ CC BY-SA 4.0 ], via Connecting the Dots

Second, during the long years of its popularity, Semmering had more than enough time to evolve into a tourism powerhouse. Without mentioning all the things to do in Semmering , the combination of culture and nature is just great for hiking. Semmering Railway transformed this mountainous area into a historic resort, scarcely filled with old grand hotels, and every building overlooking the Viennese Alps. It doesn‘t get closer to tamed mountains than this.

Semmering Bahnwanderweg is a long but segmented hiking trail stretching along the whole railway from Glognitz to Murzzuschlag. It is probably the most popular among all hiking trails near Semmering Railway .

How to get to Semmering

• Train station: Semmering Bahnhof
• Coordinates: 47.6390° N, 15.8305° E
• Distance from Vienna: 100 km / 60 mi
• Recommended route: Wien Meidling – Weiner Neustadt – Payerbach-Reichenau – Semmering
• Trip duration: 1h30 / 2h
• Recommended ticket: Einfach-Raus Ticket 35€ / 2 people (it gets cheaper with more people)
• Fastest ticket: RJ Vienna – Graz (1h11)
• Best hiking trail: Semmering Bahnwanderweg
• Map: Semmering Railway hikes

Zauberberg Semmering cable car is a good kickstart to hiking in both winter & summer. Photo by Alis Monte [ CC BY-SA 4.0 ], via Connecting the Dots

Hiking in Schneeberg Alps

The region surrounding Puchnberg and Schneeberg has more than 80 km / 50 mi of hiking and alpine trails. Beyond a doubt, it is one of the loveliest outdoor areas in Lower Austria and it is certainly my favorite region to hike in the Viennese Alps. After all, climbing above all has some romance in it. Though climbing Schneeberg might not be for everybody, there are plenty of hiking routes in Puchberg am Schneeberg to choose from.

Schneeberg is the highest mountain in Lower Austria and the easternmost and the northernmost 2k+ mountain in the Alps. The statue alone is the reason for its popularity, yet there is more to connect the mountain to the Capital of Austria. If there is some right in it, Vienna claims to have the best drinking water in the world and that water comes from nowhere else but Schneeberg.

Fadensteig might be the most popular route to Schneeberg, but Wurzengraben is a better option for a less experienced hikers. Photo by Alis Monte [ CC BY-SA 4.0 ], via Connecting the Dots

Even the Hapsburg Emperors paid their respect to the Mountain King of the Viennese Alps. The slightly lower peak of Schneeberg – Kaiserstein (2,061 m / 6,762 ft) was named in memory of the two climbings by Emperor Franz I in 1805 and 1807.

Later on, as an extension of the Puchberg Railway, it was decided to build rail tracks almost to the very top of Schneeberg – Hochschneeberg (1,800 m / 5,905 ft). It is here, that Emperor Franz Joseph I commissioned the construction of the Chapel in memory of his late wife Empress Elisabeth (Sisi), who was murdered in 1898 by a 25-year-old Italian anarchist. Hochschneeberg was, literally, as close to the heavens as the technology of the day could bring. To this day, this is widely recognized and this tragic but romantic place is a very popular choice for many marriages.

How to get to Schneeberg

• Train station: Puchberg am Schneeberg Bahnhof
• Coordinates: 47.7671° N, 15.8056° E
• Distance from Vienna: 116.7 km / 75.5 mi
• Recommended route: Wien Meidling – Weiner Neustadt – Puchberg am Schneeberg + Losenheim
• Trip duration: 1h24 + Bus to Losenheim or Schneebergbahn
• Recommended ticket: VOR Freizeit Ticket 19€ / person
• Fastest ticket: CJX + BUS 350 (1h17)
• Best Hiking Trail: Schneeberg via Fadensteig
• Map: Puchberg am Schneeberg hikes

The easiest way to the top of Schneeberg is to use Schneebergbahn to Hochschneeberg and then climb the rest of 271 m / 889 ft yourself. Photo by Alis Monte [ CC BY-SA 4.0 ], via Connecting the Dots

Hiking in Rax Alps

Technically, all these areas of the Viennese Alps listed up until now including Rax belong to the Rax-Schneeberg Mountains Group. Nevertheless, just like Semmering and Schneeberg, Rax offers a unique outdoor experience. Even the same hiking trails, could have a totally different flavor coming from the different side of the mountain range. Though Rax Mountains are surrounded by settlements, there is a clear line between the human domain and the rocky giants. Crossing that line could be a tough challenge for many hiking enthusiasts.

Schwarza Valley

The main hub of the Rax mountains is the Payerbach-Reichenau historic resort towns, located next to each other at the foot of the Alps in the Schwarza River Valley. In fact, this river might be the only reason why we have two names for the Rax-Schneeberg Mountain Group. Throughout the millennias, Schwarza has carved out even the tough mountains as this famous duo of the Viennese Alps. The testimony of this could be best observed from the south side. The obvious separation of the Rax and Schneeberg mountains could be seen from afar.

Rax Alps (left) and Schneeberg (right) is right in your face in Semmering. Photo by Alis Monte [ CC BY-SA 4.0 ], via Connecting the Dots

Rax Seilbahn

Technically, the train line, connecting Vienna with Payberbach-Reichenau Bahnhof is a part of the Semmering Railway, but it might be not the most important piece of human engineering in the area. Rax Seilbahn (Rax cable car) defines most of the hiking done in the Rax Mountains. In just an instance it elevates you by more than 1,000 m / 3,280 ft, with the upper station located 1,600 m / 5249 ft above sea level. Rax Seilbahn is a total game-changer. Once you get up to the Rax Alps like you never had a breath of fresh air. It is a different world. For that reason, many outdoor enthusiasts choose to start their hiking from the upper Rax Seilbahn station.

After getting up to the Rax Mountains one doesn’t really want to get back. Therefore, Hut-hopping is a very popular way of hiking up here.

How to get to Rax

• Train station: Payberbach-Reichenau Bahnhof
• Coordinates: 47.7012° N, 15.7402° E
• Recommended route: Wien Meidling – Weiner Neustadt – Payberbach/Reichenau + Rax Seilbahn
• Trip duration: ~1h10 + Bus/Train to Rax Seilbahn
• Fastest ticket: RJ + CJX (~1h00)
• Best Hiking Trail: Circle around Rax Plateau

Alpine garden could be reached in half an hour from Rax Cable Car upper station. Photo by Alis Monte [ CC BY-SA 4.0 ], via Connecting the Dots

Hiking in Höhe Wand

While it is impossible to get on Höhe Wand by train, at least, it is possible to get to the close area of it, which is more than enough for some of the best hiking this part of Austria has to offer. The more tenacious hikers can even climb the mountain and see the locally famous view from the top of Höhe Wand (1,135 m / 3,724 ft). Despite a few smaller mountains, like Kienberg, the high wall faces the plains of Vienna, offering an exceptionally wide scenery. Given good conditions, a keen eye could even see Lake Neusiedl from Höhe Wand.

Most popular parts of Höhe Wand like the skywalk and wild-game park are dominated by day-trippers by car. Luckily, the vast area on the top of the mountain is enough for everyone. The best train stations for hiking around Höhe Wand are: Grunbach am Schneeberg, Rothenberg, and Willendorf from the Schneeberg side; and Waldegg from the Gutenstein side.

Hohe Wand from Kienberg viewpoint. Photo by Alis Monte [ CC BY-SA 4.0 ], via Connecting the Dots

Höhe Wand is not only perfect for breathtaking views, but it is actually quite a sight itself. There is probably no better spot for embracing the high wall of Höhe Wand than from a small mountain right in front of it – Kienberg 650 m / 2,133 ft. The peak of it could be reached within an hour from Willendorf or Rothengrub train station. Climbing Kienberg will take about 2.4 km / 1.49 mi of walking and about 250 m / 820 ft of ascending. Most of the hike will take in a very peaceful pine forest at the foot of the mountain, next to Willendorf.

How to get to Gutenstein Alps

• Train station: Grünbach am Schneeberg train station
• Coordinates: 47.8413° N, 16.0585° E
• Distance from Vienna: 68.4 km / 42.5 mi
• Recommended route: Wien Meidling – Weiner Neustadt – Grünbach am Schneeberg
• Trip duration: ~1h10
• Fastest ticket: CJX + R (~1h10)
• Best Hiking Trail: Skywalk – Naturpark Hohe Wand loop

You can even see Schneeberg from Kienberg. Photo by Alis Monte [ CC BY-SA 4.0 ], via Connecting the Dots

Hiking in Türnitz Alps

Situated at the outer layer of the most famous mountains in Europe, the Türnitz Alps raises only 1,400 m / 4,593 ft at Grosser Sulzberg. Despite that, this mountainous region offers countless different hikes throughout its wild forests. Türnitz Alps are scarcely populated, therefore it is almost entirely covered by trees. This feature makes this part of the Alps distinctive and could be only mistaken with the neighboring Gutenstein Alps.

Given that, it is not entirely obvious where one should travel for the best hiking experience in the Türnitz Alps. The regional center, Town Türnitz is an obvious choice but towns like Lilienfeld or Schrambach have much better access. It is also possible to make a round trip all the way to Mariazell but Türnitz Alps might be not the most interesting hiking destination from the picturesque Styrian village.

How to get to Türnitz Alps

• Coordinates: 47.8400° N, 15.3900° E
• Distance from Vienna: 99.8 km / 62 mi
• Recommended route: Wien Westbahnhof – St Pölten –  Lilienfeld/Türnitz
• Trip duration: 1h25+
• Fastest ticket: RJ + R (~1h18)
• Best Hiking Trail: Climbing Hohenstein

Vista of Lilienfeld from Mount Parapluie (587 m / 1,926 ft). Photo by Alis Monte [ CC BY-SA 4.0 ], via Connecting the Dots

Hiking in the Gutenstein Alps

This magical region is often left overlooked by many outdoor enthusiasts. Not because Gutenstein Alps lack charm, but it rather doesn‘t have as much „presence online“ as its cousins. Some might find the Gutenstein Alps not as appealing due to the absence of rocky high mountains, but it wasn‘t the case for many artists, who found inspiration in the green idyllic valleys of the region, carved out by Piesting and other rivers. Yes, the Gutenstein Alps are the lowest of all mountain ranges on the list, but that is as much an advantage as a disadvantage.

Myra Waterfalls

If there was only one place worth visiting in the Gutenstein Alps, it must be the Myrafalls. These beautiful waterfalls are located just about 3 km / 1.86 mi from Pernitz-Muggendorf train station, following Piesting‘s tributary – Myrabach – upstream. This protected natural wonder stretches over 600 m / 1968 ft horizontally and 70 m / 230 ft vertically. It wouldn‘t be Austria if there wasn‘t a hiking path built over the Myrafalls with countless bridges over cascades, enabling the observation of all waterfalls from every possible angle. Even with a 5€ entry fee, this natural wonder is filled with visitors. Certainly, it must be the most popular destination in the Gutenstein Alps.

Once you are at the upper end of Myraffals hiking route, be sure to climb to the top of Hausstein (668 m / 2191 ft) for the surprisingly gorgeous vista of the surrounding mountains and Myrabach valley.

Myrafalls is a 600m / 1,968 ft hiking route over the cascades of Myrabach river with waterfalls dropping 70m / 230 ft in total. Photo by Alis Monte [ CC BY-SA 4.0 ], via Connecting the Dots

The heartland of the region lies deeper in the Gutenstein Alps. You can tell so from its name – Gutenstein, or THE Gutenstein. The deep history of the town, including two castles with a monastery of Servite Order on a nearby mountain (Mariahilfberg), and the natural location for a settlement – the junction of Piesting River and its two tributaries (Steinapiesting and Längapiesting) is a perfect storm for artistic inspiration. From all of them, the most famous artist who found his muse in Gutenstein was a dramatist and actor – Ferdinand Raimund. There is even a museum dedicated to him in the town. If you are a foreigner, you might not know Ferdinand Raimund, but then again – visit the museum.

In reality, Gutenstein might feel underappreciated, but it makes this town even more attractive. Among the other centers of their perspective region, Gutenstein is the only one that feels like an authentic town rather than a resort. This includes that unique Austrian alpine life flavor, which is not that easy to get around the big cities, especially Vienna.

Mariahilfberg is the most popular tourist destination in Gutenstein itself, Schneeberg could be seen from the mountain on a clear day. Photo by Alis Monte [ CC BY-SA 4.0 ], via Connecting the Dots

An obvious disadvantage of its unpopularity is that you are going to need a travel guide to visit Gutenstein without missing any of the goodies the town has to offer. Gutenstein might not be your first choice among the regions of the Viennese Alps, but I guarantee you that you won‘t be disappointed.

• Train station: Gutenstein Bahnhof
• Coordinates: 47.9500° N, 15.6500° E
• Distance from Vienna: 73km / 45mi
• Recommended route: Wien Meidling – Weiner Neustadt – Gutenstein
• Trip duration: 1h20-2h00
• Fastest ticket: RJ + R (1h20)
• Best Hiking Trail: Piestingtal
• Map: Gutenstein Alps hikes

The scenic view from the top of Hausstein, the rock of Myrafalls. Photo by Alis Monte [ CC BY-SA 4.0 ], via Connecting the Dots

Hiking in Wechselland

I have to admit that I’m yet to explore more of what Wechselland has to offer but to my defense, it is a relatively large region. And also, as they say, it is a hiker’s paradise. The title, I would argue, fits the whole country as Austrian love for nature remained strong throughout generations. Nevertheless, Wechselland has some cards under its sleeves to maintain its claim to this title. Given that the region is located on the very tip of the Prealps it is relatively flat and rather easy to walk. Albeit its relatively low profile, I find Wechselland a very picturesque region. Its countless green hills are covered with green meadows, various agriculture fields, and in contrast rather dark woods. Being less industrialized and more off-the-beaten-path, it seems like the area has a wider range of biodiversity than average. It is the only place in Austria where I saw White Storks except for the town of Rust in Burgenland.

Rax-Schneeberg Mountain Group from Sankt Corona am Wechsel. Photo by Alis Monte [ CC BY-SA 4.0 ], via Connecting Vienna

Kirchberg am Wechsel. Photo by Alis Monte [ CC BY-SA 4.0 ], via Connecting Vienna

From what I read Mönichkirchen is probably the best hub for hiking in Wechselland but unfortunately, it is quite a trip to reach without a car. You’ll most likely going to change a train in Wiener Neustadt and then jump a bus in Aspang-Markt. As a plausible alternative,s I can recommend Kirchberg am Wechsel, Sankt Corona am Wechsel, or Aspang-Markt as getaways to Wechselland’s nature. The first two offer some hiking and even a possibility of climbing Wechsel via Kupstein, albeit Mönichkirchen is the main hub for climbing the mountain. Aspang-Markt is the closest you can get to Mönichkirchen with public transport and offers some hiking and cycling of its own.

Mount Wechsel

The protagonist of the whole region is Mount Wechsel. Despite the image of hilly countryside, surprisingly, this mountain rises as much as 1,743 m / 5,718.5 ft above sea level. This might sound like not much but if you followed the whole article, you might’ve noticed that the tallest mountain around Vienna and in the whole region of Lower Austria – Mount Schneeberg – rises 2,076 m / 6,810.37 ft. So, as you can see, there is not that much of a difference. In many ways, Wechsel remains overshadowed by the taller neighboring regions, except maybe for hiking. Nevertheless, it is less known among expats, tourists, and novice hikers, and it remains a hidden secret for many.

How to Get to Wechselland

• Train station: Aspang-Markt Bahnhof
• Coordinates: 47.56235° N, 16.099581° E
• Distance from Vienna: 95.3km / 59mi
• Recommended route: Wien Meidling – Weiner Neustadt – Aspang-Markt – Mönichkirchen
• Trip duration: ~1h20(Aspang-Markt) & ±1h35(Mönichkirchen)
• Recommended ticket: Freizeit Ticket 19.90€
• Fastest ticket: REX (1h12 with limited times)
• Best Hiking Trail: Hochwechsel

While it is possible to access some parts of Wechselland by public transport with relative ease, due to its size, a car might be a better option if you want to explore it thoroughly without walking a very long distance.

Wechselland Panorama from Sankt Corona am Wechsel. Photo by Alis Monte [ CC BY-SA 4.0 ], via Connecting Vienna

Tours From Vienna to the Alps

At the moment, the tour market of day trips from Vienna to the Alps is dominated by Hallstatt trips. This is not necessarily bad, but knowing the variety Austria has to offer, it is somewhat of a pity. Nevertheless, the demand moves the supply, thus I assume many tourists want to see the magical Hallstatt. I have to confess, once I got my first opportunity to visit the town – I did it, and I have to admit that Hallstatt is very beautiful, even by Austrian standards.

Finally, If you don‘t have much time to explore the Austrian mountains, visiting Hallstatt might be a perfect day trip from Vienna to the Alps. Given that the legendary town is located in the Dachstein Mountains, you might even see much higher mountains than Schneeberg. Having traveled quite a bit in both Styria and Salzkammergut I have to say that a lot depends on the route of the tour. In my own opinion, these should be the best day trip tours from Vienna to Hallstatt.

• From Vienna: Panoramic Austrian Alps Tour to Hallstatt (13h00 | € 119/person)
• From Vienna: Full Day Trip to Hallstatt and Salzkammergut (1day | € 119/group)
• From Vienna: Hallstatt and Alpine Peaks with Skywalk Lift (13h00 | € 119/group) 

All of these tours are curated by GetYourGuide, therefore you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance to receive a full refund.

Personal Recommendation

Lastly, I have to mention that since I visited all of these wonderful regions of the Viennese Alps several times for various hiking trails, picking just one is a tough choice. Having said that, it only shows that whichever region you choose, I bet you are not going to regret it. Putting personal experience aside, it is much easier to give a recommendation thinking rationally. After doing my research I chose Semmering for my first trip, and even after all this time, I would recommend the same area for the first hiking day trip to the Viennese Alps.

No matter how many times I visit the Alps, it always capture me as if I see them for the first time. Photo by Alis Monte [ CC BY-SA 4.0 ], via Connecting the Dots

That goes even with the acknowledgement that the Rax-Schneeberg Group has the highest and the most beautiful mountains in Lower Austria. Still, if you have no plans of climbing them, we have to agree that the mountains are more beautiful from afar rather than at the foot, right? This is where Semmering comes in as a perfect destination.

Due to the nature of the Semmering Railway, the train will bring you straight to the Alps, ~900m / 2,953 ft above sea level. Once you get out of the wagon, it doesn‘t take much climbing to have Rax-Schneeberg Group in front of your eyes. It is like killing two birds with one stone. That goes even without mentioning that experiencing the Semmering Railway from a train is a trip of its own, and all the infrastructure built because of this human engineering miracle makes hiking around Semmering Railway a real joy.

All content and photos by Alis Monte. If you want to collaborate, contact me on [email protected] Photo by Alis Monte [ CC BY-SA 4.0 ], via Connecting the Dots

Featured on

Vienna’s local mountains – mountains near Vienna

Is it difficult to hike near the city of Vienna? No way – the “Viennese local mountains” are just outside the gates of Vienna. These are easily accessible and impress with their fantastically beautiful views and a wide variety of marked hiking trails. The mountains near Vienna are located on the eastern edge of the Alps and south of the Vienna Woods and are ideal as a hiking and excursion destination due to their proximity to the capital.

The “Vienna local mountains” include the Hohe Wand, the Schneeberg and the Raxalpe. However, the demarcation is not very clear. Often the Semmering and others, such as the region of the Kalten Kuchl, the Ochsattel, the Rohrer Sattel and St. Aegyds are also included. All are only about an hour’s drive from the big city – hence the name. Hiking trails can be found here in all levels of difficulty. Those who want to take an easy walk will find what they are looking for, as will those who want to face the challenge of a demanding via ferrata.

A good option for a day trip is also to visit Myra Falls. The numerous waterfalls are not only an eye-catcher, but also provide refreshment on hot summer days. However, the “Vienna local mountains” are not only an absolute recommendation in the warm months. In winter, the area of ​​Schneeberg, Hoher Wand, Rax and Semmering is ideal for skiing and has thus become the first port of call for countless skiers from the federal capital.

Below you will find some information about the “Viennese local mountains” Hohe Wand, Schneeberg, Raxalpe and Semmering.

The densely wooded nature park in the Vienna Alps is characterized by its special flora and fauna and is a popular family and leisure paradise. The mountain road leads to about 1,000 meters above sea level without much effort. On the various hiking trails there is, among other things, a rock path, a lookout tower or a lookout terrace to discover. In good weather you can enjoy an excellent view.

At 2,076 meters, the Schneeberg is the highest mountain in Lower Austria. There are no limits to your wanderlust with more than 80 kilometers of hiking trails and alpine climbs. The Schneeberg promises an incomparable panoramic view of the valley basin of Puchberg up to Lake Neusiedl. A great way to get up the mountain comfortably is to take a ride on the Schneebergbahn. It takes just 40 minutes to get to 1,800 meters above sea level.

The Rax offers many options to get a taste of fresh, clear alpine air. Paths lead over gravel paths, alpine meadows and fields past breathtaking vantage points. A comfortable way to get to the 1,540 meter high plateau is the Rax cable car. The mountains near Vienna – Wiener Hausberge, Raxalpe and Schneeberg, are separated from each other by a spectacular valley. There flows the Schwarza, which is one of the cleanest waters in Austria.

© 2024 vienna-trips.at - Ausflugstipps und Urlaubstipps

Amazing spots for hiking day trips from Vienna

One of the great things about Vienna is how easy it is to escape the heat of the city in the summer, simply by taking on one of the amazing hiking trips in the areas surrounding Vienna. It usually takes just a short drive from the city to get into the mountains and with hiking being a widespread passion among Austrians, there is a massive variety of paths for all fitness levels available. Check out this list of hiking destinations which can all easily be done as day trips from the city!

Rax – Reichenau, Lower Austria

Part of Vienna’s local mountains (“Wiener Hausberge”), the Rax is a beautiful mountain range situated at the border between Lower Austria and Styria, which is easily accessible by public transport (train) and even offers an aerial ropeway taking you up to 1546 meters above sea level. There are several hiking tracks to go on, suited for varying levels of fitness and differing in duration. You will find plenty of options, whether you are looking for a challenging hike or more after a leisurely walk. The aerial ropeway operates throughout the year. On a clear day during summer time, you’ll find yourself strolling through a beautiful scenic mountain range, while you can explore the natural landscape in snowshoes during the winter.

Semmering – Lower Austria

A popular skiing destination and climatic health resort, Semmering in Lower Austria also makes a great starting point for various hiking tours around the northern limestone alps. It’s also a good spot for some mountain biking and in the winter months, skiing and snowboarding are the dominating sports. The routes available provide a good choice of tracks for both long and short trips and some of them give the option of getting an easy start by taking a cable car ride uphill. If you choose the Austrian railways to go there by train, you’ll be able to experience a ride on the Semmering railway, which was the first mountain railway with a standard gauge track built in Europe and is on the list of UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Kahlenberg – Wienerwald, Vienna

Located in Vienna’s 19th district, this hill is a popular destination for Sunday hiking trips for the Viennese people with a long-standing tradition. On a clear day, you’ll be treated with a beautiful, scenic view of the city. The Kahlenberg is part of the Vienna Woods (Wienerwald), a popular recreation area which reaches from the city all the way into Lower Austria. The track starts off from the final tramway stop in Nußdorf in the 19th district and takes about 4 hours with possibilities to stop for lunch along the way.

Schneeberg – Puchberg, Lower Austria

Another one of Vienna’s local mountains, the Schneeberg (“snow mountain”) is the highest mountain in Lower Austria (2.076m) and can be readily seen from parts of Vienna on a clear day. There is a rack-and-pinion railway – the Schneeberg railway – going up all the way to a height of 1.800m, cutting down the hike to the summit to about two hours. Options for hiking tracks are plenty and there are huts providing freshly cooked food along the way, as well as options for overnight stays, if you intend to go on a multi-day hiking trip.

Here are a few helpful links for your trip planning:

Hiking path to the Kahlenberg on the official website of the city of Vienna . Website of the Rax Aerial Ropeway English information on hiking in Semmering English website for Puchberg/Schneeberg

post a comment

You must be logged in to post a comment.

No comments yet.

Blog Categories

• Expat Life 18
• Living in Vienna 36
• Moving to Vienna 4
• The City & its People 21
• Vienna Sights 13
• Working in Vienna 1

Privacy Overview

• Meet the Team
• Our Manifesto
• Work with Us
• Budget Travel
• Personal Development
• Work & Travel
• United Kingdom
• More of Europe
• Philippines
• More of Southeast Asia
• More of South America
• More of Central America
• South Korea
• More of Asia
• More of North America
• New Zealand
• Pacific Islands
• More of Oceania
• South Africa
• More of Africa
• More of the Middle East
• Travel Essentials
• Travel Gear

Home » Europe » Austria » The 13 Best Day Trips from Vienna [2024 Edition]

The 13 Best Day Trips from Vienna [2024 Edition]

Vienna is a city with exquisite imperial architecture a classical charm you can’t help but be romanced by. Nestled in the foothills of the Alps, sitting on the banks of the River Danube, Vienna is absolutely magical. The breathtaking backdrop of snow-capped mountains against the lush green valleys and quaint villages below makes it one of the most stunning cities to visit in Europe.

As with most major cities in Central Europe, the location of Vienna makes it the perfect base for day trips to nearby towns, villages and even other countries. Europe is a treasure trove of historical attractions, castles and cathedrals all ready to be explored from this exquisite base. When you’re done with all the wonderful things to see and do in Vienna, why not explore the equally incredible places outside of it.

Here we have compiled our top picks for the most exciting and enthralling day trips to take from Vienna.

Unlock Our GREATEST Travel Secrets!

Sign up for our newsletter and get the best travel tips delivered right to your inbox.

Getting Around Vienna and Beyond

Half-day trips from vienna, full day trips from vienna, final thoughts.

• Buy Us a Coffee!

One of the best things about Austria is its efficient public transport system. Moving around the country is easy and convenient.

European rail lines are very well connected and reliable. From Vienna, it’s easy to visit a number of different cities and towns both in Vienna and beyond.

• U-Bahn (Subway) – Fast, comfortable and safe. A day pass costs 8€.  Week pass costs 17€.
• Tram (Streetcar) – Slower but more enjoyable. A day pass costs 8€.  Week pass costs 17€.
• Buses – Reliable & punctual. You can also buy tickets from the driver. A day pass costs 8€.  Week pass costs 17€.
• Taxi – Fares can quickly add up, so we’d advise sticking to public transport which is reliable and safe.
• Bike rental – Vienna is perfect to get around on a bicycle. There’s a shared-bike program in the city as well. Rentals begin at 27€ per day.
• Car rental – Ideal for trips outside Vienna if you prefer driving in the comfort of your car. Parking is a hassle: parking garages charge up to 6€ per hour.

Whichever public transport options you choose, buy tickets from ticket offices at the stations or ticket vending machines. Don’t forget to validate it in a stamping machine before boarding.

The Vienna Card is convenient for travelling within the city because as it allows unlimited travel and discounts at various city attractions. It costs 19€ and is available at tourist information offices and public transport centres.

Many of these day trips can be easily managed with public transport. Be sure to check train times and schedules before you travel and be sure to choose accommodation for Vienna close to transport links.

There’s so much to do in Vienna, but it’s always good to explore a little further. If you’re short on time but eager to explore beyond the city. Then worry not! Check out these half-day trips from Vienna that will make your time here even more enjoyable. Even if you only have a weekend in Vienna , there are still some great places to visit outside of the city.

Vienna Woods and Mayerling

The Broke Backpacker is supported by you . Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more .

Outdoor enthusiasts will love this half-day trip from Vienna. You’ll experience some amazing hiking and walking trails at the Vienna Woods. This stretch of forested hills was even mentioned in a concert waltz in the 19 th century, as is its beauty.

The Vienna Woods is a favourite getaway from the city, with a number of historical sites, natural wonders and a beautiful monastery it’s easy to see why. Make the journey up Vienna’s “mini-mountain”, the Kahlrburg, and behold majestic views of the city from above. Visit Seegrotte, the largest underground lake in Europe and take a boat ride through the winding caverns.

The famous Cistercian Abbey of Heiligenkreuz is also a must-see. It is the oldest continually occupied Cistercian monastery in the world, being founded back in 1133. It’s considered to be a masterpiece of Austrian Gothic architecture. Another interesting place is Mayerling, an imperial hunting lodge, where the only son of Emperor Franz Joseph was found mysteriously dead with his mistress in 1889.

How to get there: ½-hour ride. Take a tram from Ring to Nussdorf or Rettichgasse.

Suggested Trip: Vienna Woods and Mayerling Half-Day Tour

Weinviertel Wine Region

Austria is well-known for its world-class wine. Vienna alone has over 700 hectares of vineyards and is the only capital city with commercial vineyards in the world. Just half an hour away from the city is the Weinviertel Wine Region, the largest wine-growing region of Austria. So if you’re into a bit of Wino, then this is the trip for you.

The Weinviertel region, with its vineyards and picturesque lanes of wine cellars and cycling paths, is a beautiful place to experience. Take a scenic drive through the hills and learn all about the region and its people. Sample the most famous grape varieties – Grüner Veltliner, Welschriesling & Zweigelt. Visit the wineries and cellars and meet the local winemakers to learn about their processes. Just make sure you have a designated driver!

The leisurely atmosphere and friendly mood of the place are perfect for a half-day trip from Vienna. There are other places of interest too, such as museums, castles and stately homes in the region. On this quick trip though, you can visit at least three different wineries and have a traditional Austrian dinner to round the day off.

How to get there: ½ hour ride. Ideally, take an organized tour.

Suggested Trip: Half-Day Countryside Wine Tour

Travel back in time to the Roman city of Carnuntum and get a dose of Austria’s early history. An easy and short half-day trip from Vienna, Carnuntum tells the tales of many famous battles fought in the region over the centuries. It was once an important part of the Roman Empire where you can still see the spectacular ruins of the ancient town.

Visit the Archaeological Park and marvel at the re-imagining of the 1 st -century city. Roman baths, houses, a city mansion, an arena for gladiators, an amphitheatre and a monumental gate, all have been reconstructed in this open-air park. Re-live the life of the locals and get a glimpse into the Roman society of times gone by. It is an interesting experience that’s for sure! Don’t forget to check in the Museum Carnuntinum and discover ancient Roman artefacts and treasures. You’ll love the day ‘romeing’ around Carnuntum!

How to get there:  1 hour 15 min ride. Take one of the hourly trains from Vienna to Carnuntum.

There’s a lot to see and do in Vienna that’s for sure, but there’s even more to experience outside of the city. Making Vienna your base is an ideal way to explore what the rest of the country and beyond has to offer. These day trips will make you fall in love with Austria and Central Europe… if you haven’t already!

Straight out of a fairytale, Salzburg will have you mesmerized from the moment you arrive. Surrounded by the majestic Alps and with some of the largest castles in Europe dotting its landscape, the picturesque town is like a dream.  It is easily one of the most memorable day trips from Vienna and there’s so much to do in Saltzburg to keep you entertained!

Salzburg is the birthplace of legendary composer Mozart. Visit Mozart’s Birthplace Museum, dedicated to the composer’s life. You can even see Mozart’s skull on display, weird flex but ok!

Stroll through the quaint cobbled streets of the Old Town and look out for sights such as the Salzburg Museum and the Christmas Museum (open all year round!) The beautiful Baroque architecture of the Salzburg Cathedral is a sight to behold that just can’t be missed during your time in the city.

Visit Mirabellgarten and admire its beautiful gardens and intricate fountains. The impressive Hohnsalzburd Castle is truly majestic. The 900-years-old fortress is perched on a clifftop and offers great views of the city below.

How to get there: 2 ½ hour ride. Take the Railjet express directly from Vienna Central Station to Salzburg.

Suggested Trip: Day Tour of Salzburg , Sound of Music Tour

Hallstatt’s beauty is the stuff of fantasy, with its peaceful atmosphere, serene lake and charming architecture.  It is thought to be one of the inspirations behind Disney’s Frozen. Hallstatt is the most wonderful day trip from Vienna and a top bucket list destination for many who visit the country.

Stroll around the village and admire the quaint cottages with flowered balconies lining the gorgeous lake. The backdrop of the Alps and the tall spire of the Evangelical Church of Hallstatt will leave you speechless. It’s no wonder that both the village and the lake are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Stop by at the Old Town and see fascinating landmarks such as Charnel House, a small 12th-century chapel decorated with skulls. Then walk up the hills to the Skywalk Hallstatt Viewpoint on Mount Krippenstein for stunning views over the town and the mountains beyond.

Hallstatt also has the oldest salt mine in the world, which is also worth a visit and is the home to a modern-day “ time capsule ” of human knowledge!

The best way to enjoy Hallstatt is to stay overnight. Check out this convenient and affordable BnB that offers lake or mountain views. For more panoramic views of the lake, opt for this 4-star hotel in the city centre.

How to get there:  Up to 3 hours ride. The best options are to drive a rental car.

The picturesque town of Melk is situated where River Danube enters the Wachau Valley. Snaking through the lush valley, the Danube flows past beautiful monasteries, grand castles and captivating villages. It is one of the most popular places to visit near Vienna and you’ll know why when you cast your eyes on its beauty.

Melk is a great day trip from Vienna for those interested in the historical heritage of Austria. The old town centre has been wonderfully preserved, the architectural wonder of many of the historic buildings remain to this day. The most famous draw is the Benedictine Melk Abbey, sitting high atop a rocky mountainside. The abbey is a magnificent Baroque-style building with a unique octagonal dome. Its Imperial Corridor and Marble Hall are filled with priceless art and incredible frescoes. Melk Abbey is a treasure trove for history-lovers. The Church is one of the finest Baroque churches north of the Alps.

Other nearby attractions are the ruins of the 900-year-old Renaissance Schloss Schallaburg and Aggstein Castle. The countryside around Melk connects the town with natural areas, like the Donauradweg cycling path, which has to be one of the loveliest bicycle routes in Europe.

How to get there: Up to 1 ½ hour ride. Take a train from Vienna to Melk Station. It is a 15 min walk up the hill from the station.

Suggested Trip: Melk Abbey and Danube Day Trip

As soon as you arrive in Budapest, it will have you hooked! The impressive Buda Castle dominates Danube’s western bank. The City Woodland Park has a number of museums and as well as the remarkable Vajdahunyad Castle. Take your time marvelling at the World Heritage-listed Castle Hill, the 19 th century Fisherman’s Bastion and Matthias Church alongside the magnificent Hungarian Parliament Building. The incredible architecture of the city spans a number of styles and eras.

Spend time at the Royal Palace before heading for lunch across River Danube. Be sure to visit the Széchenyi Baths and experience the famous thermal pools with a relaxing bath alongside locals playing chess. Don’t forget to try Hungary’s famous traditional Chimney Cake from Cafe Molnár’s Kürt?skalács. Just make sure you get a photo for insta before you devour it!

Known as the “Paris of the East”, there is so much to do in Budapest it can be overwhelming! With so many UNESCO World Heritage Sites, beautiful architecture and interesting culture, you’re in for a treat. Heading to Budapest is a day trip out of Vienna to remember.

How to get there:  2 ½ hour ride. Take a direct train from Vienna to Budapest.

Suggested Trip: Budapest Day Trip from Vienna

Ljubljana is Slovenia’s capital and is a small and charming city to visit. Though it’s a little far away from Vienna, it is still a great day trip to take if you get the chance. The old town of Ljubljana is a place you really wouldn’t want to miss!

Take a leisurely stroll through the narrow and cobblestone streets of the old town and get lost in its charm and hip vibe. The streets lining both sides of the river Ljubljanica were constructed as early as medieval times but the attitude of the city is very much in the modern-day. Visit the famous Triple Bridge, the town hall and other beautiful buildings such as the Baroque churches and palaces designed by famous architect Plecnik.

Why not walk your way up the hill to Ljubljana Castle for some stunning city views. Alternatively, you can also take the funicular. Have a light lunch of tasty local food from one of the several restaurants. Visit the green park Tivoli and take a relaxing stroll.

How to get there: 4-hour ride by car.

Cesky Krumlov

Cesky Krumlov is truly a fairytale town that has to be seen to be believed. This cosy city in the Czech Republic is known as one of the most beautiful towns in Europe. Cesky Krumlov is nestled into the crook of the Vltava River that meanders around the city and has a quaint atmosphere right from the off.

Cesky Krumlov is a real romantic getaway for couples especially. Spend the day strolling around the historic Old Town, whatever the season you can’t fail to fall in love with this charming town. Visit the Cesky Krumlov Castle, with its magical pink tower standing high and tall just like Rapunzel’s Tower! Walk along the Cloak Bridge and treat yourself to stunning birds-eye views of the city whilst you’re up there.

An interesting museum to visit is the Muzeum Tortury – a strange up fascinating museum displaying different medieval torture methods, tools and instruments. Somewhat of an antidote to all that romance! Try the traditional street food “trdelnik”, a local pastry with different toppings whilst you’re here too.

Cesky Krumlov is somewhere that will capture your heart, which is why we strongly recommend staying overnight. This cosy accommodation in the heart of Cesky’s Old Town has spacious rooms. This guesthouse in the city has all amenities and a continental breakfast.

How to get there: 2 ½ hour ride. Take a direct shuttle bus or drive yourself from Vienna.

Prague should be done as a day trip from Vienna only if you’re hard-pressed for time. Otherwise, the magic of the city is best experienced in more than a day as there is so much to do in Prague . Bursting with fascinating architecture, towering spires, magnificent castles and gothic cathedrals, Prague is a city with immense character.

Start with a walking tour from Old Town Square, the lively heart of Prague. You can visit several attractions from here, such as the famous Prague Astronomical Clock , Old Town Hall, and Church of Our Lady Before Tyn. The Astronomical Clock was installed in 1410 and is said to be the oldest clock in the world that is still in operation.

Stroll across the iconic Charles Bridge. Go through the Mala Strana neighbourhood up to Prague Castle. The castle grounds, along with the grand Vladislav Hall and the magnificent St Vitus Cathedral are fascinating places to see and explore. The terrace on Hradcany Square offers panoramic views of Prague, an ideal place to end a day exploring.

How to get there: Up to 4-hour ride. It’s better to go with a guided tour for better time & transport management.

Suggested Trip: Prague Day Trip with Walking Tour

If you’re looking for a short and fun escape from Austria’s capital city, head on across the border to Slovakia’s capital city. Bratislava is perfect for a day trip from Vienna – it is a delightful little city with so much to see and experience and it’s so close.

Start with the most picturesque part of the city, the Old Town of Bratislava. Stroll around the town square with its impressive 8th-century buildings lining the cute little streets. The Old Town Hall houses the Bratislava City Museum, the city’s oldest museum and a great place to learn about the city. The viewing tower of this bright yellow building offers panoramic views of the town square.

Visit Michael’s Gate – an imposing construct that was one of the four gates when Bratislava was a fortified city. It’s now an icon of the city. Another impressive building is the Gassarlkovich Palace, the residence of Slovakia’s president. Then there’s Bratislava Castle, perched on a hill overlooking the city and the river Danube.

How to get there:  1-hour ride. Take a train from Vienna to Bratislava.

Suggested Trip: Bratislava Day Trip including Catamaran Cruise

Baden Bei Wien

A short yet serene and relaxing break from city life, this town is an ideal day trip in Vienna. Baden Bei Wein is a former ancient Roman town that was well known for its thermal springs. The “Spa of Emperors”, Baden Bei Wein was a favourite summer resort for Austrian royalty. For more than two millennia, the restorative waters of the springs have been flowing in the city and enjoyed by all those who visit.

Spend your time in this spa-town bathing in its warm therapeutic waters. Perfect for later in your trip if you need to take a break from all that exploring. With the serenity and wellness effects of the springs, many famous composers came to the city for inspiration and focus. It’s easy to see why and you will surely leave the town feeling revitalised too.

If bathing isn’t your thing then there’s plenty more to explore. Roam the town and admire the wonderful 19th-century classicist architecture. See the Trinity Column plague memorial in the town square, the Casino Baden and Kurpark, a formal city garden that merges with Vienna Woods’ forests. Follow the trails to Kalvarienberg, a hill in Kurpark that offers nice views of the town below.

How to get there: 40 min ride. Take a train from Vienna to Baden Bei Wien.

Brno is a city with rich history and beautiful modernist architecture. Just over an hour away from Vienna, Brno is the second-largest city in the Czech Republic and is much quieter than Prague. There are many things to do and see in Brno – remarkable buildings, interesting attractions and great food, beer and wine.

Most of the important historical sites and landmarks are located conveniently around the city centre. Visit the magnificent 13th-century Spilberk Castle and explore its museum, gardens and vaulted prison tunnels. The iconic Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul is another important and impressive landmark. Don’t miss St. James Ossuary, which is the second-largest of its kind in Europe and a sight to behold.

Public spaces in Brno are aplenty – the historic Zelnýtrh square is famed for its markets, boutique shops, cafes, and restaurants. The 17th century Parnas Fountain is the centre of the city and where many people come to meet.

If you plan to stay overnight, check out this centrally-located B&B . Or stay at one of the affordable apartments at this hotel , which offers all amenities.

How to get there: 1 ½ hour ride. Take a train or bus from Vienna to Brno.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Don’t Forget your Vienna Travel Insurance

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

There you go – that was the list of our favourite day trips from Vienna. This list is not exhaustive, but we have picked those places that are well-visited, as well as those places that are lesser-known to give you a few different options. Our favourite day trips are Saltzburg , Hallstatt and Cesky Krumlov – All are fairytale towns right out of a Disney movie.

Best Time to Go:

The mild weather of spring (April to May) and Autumn (September to October) are ideal for a trip to Vienna . Crowds are fewer during these seasons. However, if you enjoy summers more, the weather is warm and sunny, but as it is high season, hotel rates hit the Alps (pun intended) and it can be quite busy in places like Vienna, Prague and Budapest.

Buy Us a Coffee !

A couple of you lovely people suggested we set up a tip jar for direct support as an alternative to booking through our links. So we created one!

You can now buy The Broke Backpacker a coffee . If you like and use our content to plan your trips, it’s a much appreciated way to show appreciation 🙂

Share or save this post

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail.

The best day trips from Vienna

What day trips can you do from vienna.

Are you visiting Vienna for a few days or just have some spare time and wondering what to do?

Then this article is for you!

If you are looking for some inspiration, below you will find a list with daily trips from Vienna and things to do in and outside Austria.

Day trips are an amazing way to visit a new city or place in a short period of time and make some new memories.

Thanks to the Vienna favorable location, there are a number of wonderful cities to see and things to do around Vienna, even in winter.  

Here are our favorite day trips from Vienna:

Danube Valley Day Trip

The Danube Valley is loved by many locals and tourists especially for its beautiful views and vineyards. Visit the wonderful Wachau in a day trip to enjoy the Melk Abbey, stroll the streets of Melk city, have romantic vineyards views and take a walk in the famous Dürnstein. Our special tip for you is to try the extremely juicy apricots, that are typical for the Wachau valley.

Explore the Danube Valley day trip

Hallstatt Day Trip

Have you ever wondered what is the most picturesque place near Vienna?

If so, you definitely have to visit Hallstatt.

Surrounded by breathtaking mountains and lake, the iconic Hallstatt is located in the Austrian Salzkammergut. Looking at the beautiful wooden houses covered with snow is what makes Hallstatt one of the most wonderful day trips from Vienna in winter. It is important to keep on mind that Vienna to Hallstatt is a long day trip, but the views are so much worth it!

Explore the Hallstatt day trip

Seegrotte Hinterbrühl Day Trip

If you want a tour near Vienna, then this is a quick one!

Did you know that the largest underground lake in Europe is located near Vienna? Visit the Seegrotte Hinterbrühl, dive into its mystical experiences and take a boat trip inside the lake grotto. If you are wondering what can you combine with Vienna, then make sure you check out this tour.

Explore the Seegrotte Hinterbrühl tour

Salzburg Day Trip

Salzburg is one of the most beautiful cities in Austria. Known as the Mozartstadt, Salzburg is a must visit for everyone who really wants to feel the Austrian culture. Looking at all the beautiful lakes and mountains while travelling across the Salzkammergut is among our favorite things to do on the way to Salzburg. When you arrive in Salzburg, take a walk in the old city center, see the great fortress and if there is enough time enjoy the famous “ Sound of Music ”.

Can you do Salzburg as a day trip from Vienna? Yes, it is possible and it is a wonderful trip, but of course because of the distance you have to be prepared that the trip will be rather a long one. However, we love it!

Explore the Salzburg day trip

Bratislava Day Trip

Is a day trip to Bratislava from Vienna worth it? If you want to discover a new capital city just on the corner, then an exciting day tour from Vienna to Bratislava, might be exactly what you are looking for. When another important town it’s so close, it is a pity not to get to know it. Jump on the bus, discover the Bratislava historic city center and enjoy a Danube boat trip back to Vienna.

Explore the Bratislava day trip

Budapest Day Trip

Are you still wondering where to go from Vienna? Budapest, the worldwide famous capital of Hungary, located on the Danube is another great historical and cultural highlight close to Vienna. Go on a day trip from Vienna to Budapest and see the Budapest Parliament, the St. Stephen’s Basilica and so much more.

Explore the Budapest day trip

More Day Tours from Vienna

Experience an exciting day trip to the Parndorf Shopping Outlet and discover a world of first-class brands at reduced prices. The outlet offers a wide range of fashion and lifestyle brands, including designer labels, sportswear, accessories and much more. Enjoy the relaxed shopping experience in a modern and appealing ambience while you look for bargains and take advantage of exclusive offers. After the shopping, cozy cafes and restaurants invite you to relax and unwind. The Parndorf Outlet is easy to reach from Vienna with the Parndorf Shuttle Bus and promises an entertaining and rewarding day for all shopping enthusiasts. The ultimate one day trip from Vienna for shopping lovers!

Schloss Hof Day Trip from Vienna

Schloss Hof a historical castle in the heart of Austria's Weinviertel region, is a perfect destination for a day trip from Vienna. This magnificent baroque palace and its beautiful gardens offer not only a fascinating insight into history, but also an idyllic setting to relax and explore. Visitors can stroll through the baroque gardens, admire the ornate rooms of the castle and immerse themselves in the past. A visit to the castle promises an unforgettable day full of culture and history.

Find out more about how you can get free entry to Schloss Hof here .

Escape in the nature and discover the Myra Falls , which are just a short drive from Vienna. A day trip from Vienna to this picturesque area not only offers a welcome break from the hustle of the city, but also breathtaking waterfalls part of the green forests. The hiking trails in the area not offer spectacular views and a great opportunity to experience nature and enjoy the fresh air. For nature lovers and adventure seekers, a visit to the Myra waterfalls is one of the most interesting excursion destinations in the Vienna area.

Forchtenstein Castle Day Trip from Vienna

Forchtenstein Castle is an amazing destination for a day trip from Vienna. The historic fortress in Burgenland, not only offers an impressive insight into the history of the region, but also breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Visitors can explore the castle's beautiful architecture, walk through its impressive halls and admire the rich collection of historical artifacts. Forchtenstein Castle is also known for its famous weapons collection, which is one of the most important in Europe.

Did you know that you could get for free in the castle if you use your Vienna PASS? Learn more here .

Vienna Woods Day Trip

The Vienna Woods is a true gem located just outside Vienna and is perfect for a day trip from Vienna (or even a half-day trip from Vienna). With its breathtaking forests and picturesque hiking trails, the Vienna Woods offers a wonderful escape from the city life. Whether you like hiking, cycling or simply enjoying nature, there's something to suit everyone here. A Vienna Woods day trip to these idyllic surroundings is a great way to get away from it all and recharge your batteries.

Liechtenstein Castle

Discover the exciting Liechtenstien Castle inside with its treasury chamber and enjoy a unique view over Vienna. Guided tours take place every hour on the hour during opening hours, so you can easily find a tour that suits you. Beside this, you can get a free guided tour with the Vienna PASS .

To get there, we recommend taking the underground line U6 to Siebenhirten station. From there, take bus 270 in the direction of Mödling and get off at Maria Enzensdorf Franz Josef Strasse. Immerse yourself in the history of this fascinating castle and experience an unforgettable journey through the centuries.

More Daily Tours from Vienna

Now when you know what cities to visit from Vienna, you can get started making memories for a lifetime.

Find out even more tours and things to do in Vienna .

• Best Time to Visit
• Weather & Climate
• Public Transportation
• Airport Guide
• 48-Hour Itinerary
• Top Things to Do
• Top Museums
• Naschmarkt Guide
• Austrian Foods to Try
• Best Restaurants
• Nightlife in Vienna
• Best Places to Taste Wine
• Search Please fill out this field.
• Newsletters
• Destinations

The 10 Best Day Trips From Vienna, Austria

Vienna is surrounded by beauty, culture, and history. Close to Slovakia, the Czech Republic, and Hungary, it affords travelers plenty of great getaways with minimum hassle and expense. It's also in close reach of idyllic countryside villages, vineyards with wine-tasting opportunities , and breathtaking mountain landscapes. These are the best day trips from Vienna, Austria that can also be extended to an overnight or weekend stay, so you can make the most of each destination. 

The Wachau Valley

TripSavvy / Lauren Breedlove

The Wachau Valley is a remarkable network of green forests, storybook castles, medieval abbeys, pristine riverbanks, idyllic vineyards, and cute little towns. The area is also a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most popular getaways from Vienna.  

Located about an hour from the city center by car or bus, the Valley offers plenty of things to see and do. It's coveted by history buffs, wine lovers, foodies, and anyone in search of a bucolic and quaint Austria. 

Spanning some 25 miles between the pretty towns of of Krems and Melk, the Wachau Valley (also referred to as the Danube Valley for the river that runs through it) is rich with both history and natural beauty. 

What to Do There: Make sure to visit the stunning  Melk Abbey, situated at the top of a hill and offering gorgeous views over the river below and the entire Valley. The Benedictine Abbey, which dates to 1089, is perched on a site that has been used by various royal and religious figures for over 1,000 years. Its fine marble elements, arresting domed entrance, and picturesque gardens make it a real draw card in the Valley. There's also a museum dating to the Austrian Imperial period, offering visitors a good overview of the site and displaying numerous opulent artifacts. 

Wine tasting in the Wachau valley is also a great options, as is a long walk along the Danube between Melk and Krems, and exploring the area's many interesting historic sites. Take a look at this page on the UNESCO World Heritage Trail in the Valley.  

Bratislava, Slovakia

TripSavvy / Alisha McDarris

Take the train for an hour due east, and you'll find yourself in Bratislava , the capital of Slovakia and one of the prettiest and most well-preserved cities in Europe. 

Bratislava's cobbled pedestrian streets lined with cafes and restaurants, grand old national theatre, and whimsical statues make for an ideal day trip. Even many travelers on tight budgets will find the fare reasonable, and when it's nice out, walking around and visiting the city's main monuments is an inexpensive way to spend the day. 

What to Do There: With its distinctive, brightly colored facades and warm red rooftops, the city is cheerful and full of interesting sites , even on a foggy or rainy day. Make sure to visit the 16th-century Bratislava castle, a storybook-worthy monument that dominates a high hill overlooking the old city. 

If you have a bit more time and wouldn't mind spending a lot of time on the water, a day-long cruise by boat from Vienna to Bratislava is entirely possible, too. However, these cruises generally only operate between April to September. 

The Local Vineyards of Vienna

One of the most idyllic and easy ways to get out of the city for a spell is to head for the local vineyards of Vienna. These winemaking areas are remarkably close to the urban hustle and bustle but make you feel like you've gotten far, far away from it all. 

Vienna counts an astounding 700 hectares of actively cultivated vines within its greater city limits, and 80% of these produce distinctive Austrian white wines, including the world-famous Gruner Vetliner and Wiener Gemischter Satz, a local speciality. 

In the spring and fall, locals flock to the vineyards to catch a bit of bucolic country charm, taste and judge the seasonal bounty, and nibble on typical Austrian specialties at local heurige (country wine estates where food is also generally served).

What to Do There: This is probably one of the most Austrian things you can do on a trip to Wien: spend a lazy afternoon at a heurige or two. Taste the latest whites and tuck into a plate of cheese, charcuterie, special salads and homemade cakes. 

For more information on the best wine-tastings and heurige in close reach of the city, including information on how to get there by train and/or bus, visit this page . 

Klosterneuburg Monastery

More than 900 years old, the Klosterneuburg Monastery is one of the Vienna area's loveliest and most historically important centers of religious activity. It houses numerous prized works of religious art, including the "Verdun Altar," crowns, and other ceremonial items. 

Blending high Gothic and Baroque architecture, the Monastery features distinctive green domes and towers that can be spotted from afar as you approach the hilly area on which it stands. It's also surrounded by centuries-old vineyards: a typical feature of the Austrian countryside. 

Founded in 1114 by Margrave Leopold III, the site has served as a residence of many Imperial dynasties, including the Habsburgs. Since it's served as an unusual combination of monastery and royal residence, it lends much insight into the religious and Imperial history of Austria. 

What to Do There: Make sure to see the Verdun Altar, a remarkably well-preserved piece of medieval art. Also see the onsite wine cellars and the former private rooms of Emperor Charles VI, which serve as the starting point for most guided tours. For more information on getting there, what to do and see at the monastery, see this page. 

Kreuzenstein Castle and Fortress

Crowning a grand hill that was prized by settlers as far back as the prehistoric period, this castle and fortress is one of the most arresting sites around Vienna. Although the original 12th-century medieval structure was destroyed during the 17th century, the reconstructed 19th-century site and its adjoining museum make for a fun and informative visit. 

Kreuzenstein served as a center of strategic defense against enemies for many centuries, and was acquired by the powerful Habsburg family (later to rule much of Europe with their Empire) during the Middle Ages. Today, it serves as a museum of medieval history, art and culture.

What to Do There: There's an armory, chapel, Knight's Hall, kitchen and keep to explore. For more information on visiting the site, including details on guided tours and admission fees, see this page. 

True, Prague is a bit of a stretch for a day trip in the strict sense—at least if you want to really take advantage of the city. But if you leave Vienna early in the morning and opt for an overnight stay in the Czech capital, a 24-hour hop between the two remarkable cities is feasible. 

It takes around four hours to get to Prague from the Austrian capital, by train, car, or tourist bus. For this reason, make sure to set out early so you have enough time to explore all the highlights of the former center of Bohemia. 

What to Do There: Old Prague is a marvel and another UNESCO World Heritage site. With its breathtaking and remarkably preserved Old Town Square, Royal Palace, Jewish Quarter and distinctive synagogue, Prague Castle, Kafka Museum, and numerous other attractions, this is one of Eastern Europe's most fascinating cities. 

In addition to taking some time to taste specialities such as local Czech beers, goulash, dumplings and pastries, we recommend hitting off-the-beaten-path attractions such as the Cubist Museum, one of the city's most interesting gems. Also make sure to stroll across the centuries-old Charles Bridge. 

Beethoven Museum

A must for classical music fans, the quiet village of Heiligenstadt lies just outside of Viennese city limits. Its claim to fame is that Ludwig von Beethoven visited the town many times, composing part of his Second Symphony in a small apartment here in 1802. Arriving for the first time at the tender age of 17 as a student of Mozart's, the young Ludwig would return to Vienna to study under Haydn and stayed until his death in 1827.

What to Do There: Make sure to visit the composer's former residence at 6 Proubusgasse. It's been transformed into a 14-room museum that's only been open since November 2017. Toward the end of his life when Beethoven was losing his hearing, he wrote the Heiligenstadt Testament here, an unsent missive to his brothers that reveals much about the composer's suffering.

The permanent collection tells the story of that famous letter and displays numerous personal artefacts of Beethoven's, musical equipment and other objects of interest. 

Also, Beethoven, who eventually moved to Vienna, is buried in the city's biggest cemetery at Zentralfriedhof. There are many other sites around the Austrian capital that can be visited as part of an informal "Beethoven tour"—the new museum being one of them. For information on visiting the Beethoven Museum,  visit this page.

TripSavvy / Christopher Larson

This iconic city served as the setting for the beloved movie " The Sound of Music ."  Salzburg is roughly two and a half hours away from Vienna by train. If you're looking for a slice of the idyllic Austrian atmosphere you've so often heard about, a trip to this city near the German border is well worth a try. Offering views of the Eastern Alps, Salzburg is surrounded by picturesque mountains.

What to Do There: Famous denizens include Mozart, and classical music fans can visit his birthplace at the popular museum that stands here.

Make sure to spend a few hours roaming around the Baroque Altstadt (Old Town), which has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Noteworthy sights and attractions there include the Mirabell Palace and its sumptuous formal gardens (reportedly a favorite playground of the Von Trapp kids),  Salzburg Cathedral , and the Residentzplatz , an immense square in the city centre that's dominated by the Residenzbrunnen , a stunning fountain crafted in marble. 

Otherwise, a stop at Hohensalzburg Castle is another good option, as is a walk along the gorgeous banks of the Salzach river .  You can even take a sightseeing cruise on the river to rest your feet for a stretch. 

Carnuntum, an Old Roman Archaeological Site

Austria was a vibrant and important part of ancient Rome's nexus of power and influence within Europe. Located just east of Vienna via a short (and inexpensive) local train, the Archaeological Park at Carnantum features some impressive Roman ruins, reconstructed buildings and an engaging permanent exhibition that brings the 1st Century BC town back to life. 

For anyone interested in history and archaeology, this makes an ideal and easy day trip. There are plenty of activities designed for kids, too, so a family outing is certainly possible here. 

What to Do There: During its heyday, Carnantum was home to some 50,000 people. Come see the reconstructed buildings at the park. These include elaborate Roman baths, or Thermae , stately houses of wealthy citizens, and even part of an arena that once served as a gladiator school. The latter was only discovered in 2011. 

For more Information on the park, tickets and getting there from Vienna, see this page at the official website.

The Woods of Vienna

The Vienna Woods—part of the lower foothills of the Alps—are immense, full of easy walking trails, heurige for wine tasting and casual meals, and the  Kahlenberg,  a small mountain popular for its panoramic views. 

What to Do There: On a clear day, the Kahlenberg viewpoint affords visitors incredible vantages over the entire city and its surroundings. Home to a centuries-old monastery and the Baroque St Joseph's Church, the mountain also features a large tower, the Stefaniewarte , that was built in the late 19th century in honor of the Crown Princess Stefanie of Belgium. From here, you can enjoy the panoramic terrace before accessing the many walking paths that wind through the Vienna Woods. If you start early enough, you can even walk the whole way back to the city (about 4.5 hours in total). For lovers of the outdoors, spending some time on these trails is highly recommended—UNESCO even named the Woods a Biosphere Reserve, owing to their outstanding natural beauty and diversity. Some 2,000 plant species and 150 bird species, including endangered ones, inhabit the sprawling forest. 

For information in English on the Woods, walking trails and getting there from the city center by tram or bus,  see this page.

Related Articles

More related articles.

The English speaking magazine. Making the most out of Vienna and life.

• People & Stories
• Restaurants
• Breakfast & Brunch
• Bars & Clubs
• Vegan & Veggie Vienna
• This Weekend

Vienna Würstelstand Making the most out of Vienna and life. Copyright © 2021. All rights reserved.

8 gorgeous nature weekend escapes in Austria that you can easily reach by train from Vienna

Feel the need to flee the city we’ve put together a list of some gorgeous spots in austria that you can reach from vienna by train in less than 5 hours..

Here are 8 gorgeous locations in Austria where you can escape the city, and spend a weekend surrounded by nature .

Attersee – Nature weekend escapes from Vienna by train

Where: Attersee in Upper Austria

How to get there: from Wien HBF to Kammer-Schörfling Bahnhof via Vöcklabruck (around 2h 45min), or to Attersee Bahnhof via Vöcklamarkt (3h)

If there was a beauty pageant for lakes in Austria, the Attersee would almost definitely be the winner. This lake, while damn cold most of the year, is a gorgeous thing to wake up, and fall asleep to, when on a weekend getaway. This is no doubt why one of the country’s most famous painters – yes, Mr Gustva Klimt, himself – holidayed and painted here nearly every Summer. There’s even a museum all about Klimt in Schörfling am Attersee which is well worth checking out.

The lake is surrounded by a number of towns that are filled with ‘Pensions – many of them run by families that are super hospitable. The lake is also surrounded by various other lakes. Staying here, you’ll be at the heart of Salzburg’s lake district, and we highly recommend you visit a couple and go swimming in a different one each day.

There are other fun nature activities apart from all the lake-side stuff for you to do when you’re in the area. You can check out the Nixenfälle , a 50-meter high waterfall, or hike the Mahdlgupf Klettersteig , a trail up a mountain that delivers a beautiful view over the lake. Then there’s also the Pfarrer-Salettl –  a wild nature trail that the locals call, ‘Glücksplatz’ (‘Place of Happiness’) that you should visit to develop an inner sensitivity and delve into some self-discovery.

If that all sounds a bit too spiritual for you, there’s also the incredibly good Steckerlfisch eatery in the lakeside town of Moos. You’ll stay an extra day just so you can go for the trout grilled to perfection on a stick, again.

Gerlitzen Bahn © Markus-Ramsbacher

Gerlitzen Alpe © Franz Gerdl

Image: Ossiacher See © Martin Hofmann

Ossiacher See – Nature weekend escapes from Vienna by train

Where: Ossiacher See in Carinthia

How to get there: from Wien HBF to Annenheim Bahnhof via Villach (5h)

This weekend escape combines a lake and incredible mountain ranges – it’s like its the ultimate Austrian holiday combo’.

The Ossiacher See (Lake Ossiach) is located near Villach in Carinthia, and is in the southern region of the Gurktal Alps. It’s the place of dreams for those amongst us who love being up high on mountains and engaging in any activity involving hiking boots.

If you’re feeling a bit lazy, or don’t want to hike up the mountain, there’s a cable car that will take you up to the Kanzelhöhe sub-peak. From there, you can take another cable car up to the Gerlitze mountain top (1,909 m). There, you’ll have a panoramic view of the lake and the mountains.

Close to Annenheim, there’s the Finsterbach Wasserfälle (waterfalls), and on the east shore of the Lake Ossiach, there’s the Bleistätter Moor , a moor and nature reserve with an easy 7km loop hike (slow trail) on which you can catch a variety of flora and fauna species that you probably haven’t seen before.

Also really close to Annenheim is Landskron where the mountain of monkeys, ‘ Affenberg, ‘ is located. Yes, Austria has a monkey mountain, and yup, there are monkeys living there. We’ve been told it’s technically not a zoo, nevertheless, biologists and animal caretakers guide visitors through the area that is home to around 160 Japanese macaques that were rescued and are now studied there.

die Treppe ins Nichrs auf dem Dachstein für die Besucher freigegeben Attraktion Dachstein Treppe ins Nichts © Gery Wolf

5fingers Aussichtsplattform © Dachstein Tourismus AG / Himsl

Dachstein region – Nature weekend escapes from Vienna by train

Where: Obertraun in Upper Austria

How to get there: from Wien HBF to Obertraun Dachsteinhöhlen Bahnhof via Attnang-Puchheim (around 4h)

Dachstein mountain is the highest mountain that straddles Upper Austria and Styria, and the Dachstein region in which it’s located is one dramatically beautiful place.

The fastest way to reach Dachstein is to travel to Obertraun (a small village in Upper Austria) and use this as your homebase for your weekend trip.

Obertraun is located next to the South end of the Hallstätter See (Lake Hallstatt) and, more or less, in the foothills of Dachstein mountain. If you’re a cave girl, or guy, (with that, we mean that you’re interested in checking out caves), take the Dachstein World Heritage cable car up to the Giant Ice Cave and the impressive Mammoth Cave . If you take the cable car up a bit further, you’ll reach the Krippenstein on the Dachstein plateau. From here, you’ll have a stunning panoramic view of the Salzkammergut .

When you’ve had enough of all the mountain goat kind of fun (which you probably won’t, but anyway),  you should definitely lay your eyes on Lake Hallstatt – it’s one of the most photographed lakes in Austria.  When you’re there, be sure to go for a swim, or take a pedal boat out onto the lake so you can enjoy the spectacular view of Hallstatt from the water.

Welterbesteig Wachau © Donau Niederösterreich / Franz Hauleitner

Schloss Schönbühel, Wachau © Donau Niederösterreich / Lachlan Blair

Spitz an der Donau, Wachau © Donau Niederösterreich / Steve Haider 

Wachau – Nature weekend escapes from Vienna by train

Where: Wachau in Lower Austria

How to get there: from Wien Westbahnhof to Melk (1h) or from Wien Hbf to Krems via St. Pölten (1h 17min)

You’ve probably had a glass (or more) of a Grüner Veltliner, or a Riesling, from the Wachau region as this is one of Austria’s premiere wine regions. They’re also mighty proud of their apricots here, surprisingly enough. Anyway, the Wachau valley is just a short train ride away from Vienna, but you’ll feel very disconnected from the city when you’re exploring one of its medieval towns , and sipping at a wine in one of its many Heuriger.

The Danube river weaves through the Wachau, right between the towns of Melk and Krems. You could pick either of these city’s as your base for the weekend. This region is also on the UNESCO List of World Heritage Sites for its architectural and agricultural history. Ancient castles and forts balance on hilltop ledges, while the hiking trails are plentiful.

While you’re there, you’ve got to hike up Dürnstein mountain for a great view over the vineyards lining the valley, the river, and the ancient monasteries, castles and other ruins located in this area.

If you’re feeling up for it, there’s actually a long distance hiking trail (180km), called the Welterbsteig. As an extra incentive, the  hike hosts a total of 180 Heuriger on its way – that’s one Heuriger per kilometre!

Meanwhile, it’s a popular biking trail that goes all the way to Bavaria in Germany cuts through the Wachau, so there’s also that option for those that never leave home without their two-wheeled stallion.

Trail © Wiener Alpen/Franz Zwickl

Image Copyright: Semmeringbahn © Niederösterreich-Werbung/ Michael Liebert

Semmering – Nature weekend escapes from Vienna by train

Where: Semmering in Lower Austria (on the border to Styria)

How to get there: from Wien HBF to Semmering Bahnhof (1h 16min)

You don’t have to journey far from Vienna to find all that mountain and forest beauty that Austria’s famous for. The Semmering mountain pass, which forms a natural border between Lower Austria and Styria, is just over an hour train ride from Vienna.

This mountain range hosts breathtaking scenery, and plenty of hiking trails for you to get your dose of nature on. Meanwhile, if you’re a fan of trains, you should definitely make this trip. There’s a special hiking trail called the ‘Bahnwanderweg’, which follows the impressive UNESCO World Heritage listed viaducts and buildings that make up the Semmeringbahn, which, by the way, was the world’s first mountain railway opened in 1854.

© www.mariazell.blog

Mariazellerland – Nature weekend escapes from Vienna by train

Where: Mariazell & surroundings in Styria, on the border to Lower Austria

How to get there: from Wien HBF or Westbahnhof to St. Pölten (30min), then take the Mariazellerbahn to Mariazell (around 2h)

Mariazell is known for being a place of pilgrimage, mainly because of the Basilica located there (and probably a bunch of other reasons). However, we’re recommending it based more on it’s nature and the mountains credentials. Plus, it’s not that far away from Vienna, meaning you can be back in the (home) office by Monday.

Even the train ride on the Mariazellerbahn is a mini-nature adventure on its own – you’ll be riding on board Austria’s longest narrow-gauge railway through the beautiful Pielach Valley, and then up to Mariazell.

From the town of Mariazell, you can go on various hikes, and explore the surrounding mountains, such as the Bürgeralpe, the Gemeindealpe, and even the tallest mountain of Lower Austria, the Ötscher.

There’s also the ‘Erlaufsee’ and ‘Hubertussee’ lakes that are great for swimming and other water activities.

Processed with VSCO with m5 preset

Bad Gastein – Nature weekend escapes from Vienna by train

Where: Bad Gastein in Salzburg

How to get there: from Wien HBF to Bad Gastein Bahnhof (4h46min)

OK, it’s official – this chunk of Austria, Bad Gastein, is one of the country’s best looking spots. It may be famous for its thermal spas and grand villas, but it’s also a region of picture-perfect nature (we’re serious, you’ll be photographing the F*** out of this place). Situated in the high valley of the Hohe Tauern, you’ll be surrounded by towering mountains and the very beautiful (yet also somewhat noisy) Gastein waterfalls.

There’s plenty of hiking trails for you to check out in the area, and for those of you who are not afraid of heights, you should definitely walk across the suspension bridge on the Stubnerkogel . We’ve also heard that the nature surrounding Bad Gastein is a popular spot for ‘Forest Bathing’ (also known as Nature Therapy) where you can really become one with yourself while being immersed by nature.

Images © NTG/steve.haider.com © NTG/Mike Ranz

Neusiedlersee – Nature weekend escapes from Vienna by train

Where: Neusiedler See in Burgenland

How to get there: from Wien HBF to Neusiedl am See (40 min)

OK, so some say that the Neusiedlersee isn’t the most beautiful lake there is in Austria. Sure, there’s definitely lakes that are bluer and a bit more inviting to take a swim in, but hey, the Neusiedler See is really close to Vienna, and there’s plenty of reasons to visit it for a nature weekend getaway.

Let’s start with the wine – on the eastern shores of the lake, there’s a wine-growing region where some of Austria’s best drops are produced. You should definitely spend some time in the vineyards and Heuriger tasting the products of one of nature’s ever-giving fruits – the grape. All hail the might grape!

Listen up if you’re a foodie for the next tip – the modern take of a Heuriger, Gut Oggau , in the town of Oggau is a must visit. Just trust us on this one. Amazing place created inside a hundreds of year old winery.

If you want to live out your part-time image as a blonde beach babe surfy for a while, learn to wind surf on the lake. It’s actually considered one of the best lakes for wind surfing in Europe. Sailing is another popular water sport done here, along with stand up paddling. If you’re more the ‘reading a book on the shore while watching everybody else do these things,’ kind of person, there are plenty of so-called ‘beach areas’ where you can get comfy on a patch of grass and jump in when you’re feeling a little hot.

On land, the bike path encircling the lake makes for a very scenic (and flat) ride.

If we had to name one town on the lake to visit, we’d definitely direct you towards Rust. This town is packed with the looks and atmosphere of a mediterranean holiday town along its main street.

Get content that you love in your inbox!

Newsletter List All our lovely Würstels

You agree that your personal data (as described in the Data Privacy) will be processed to send newsletters. You can revoke this consent at any time by clicking on the unsubscribe link in the newsletter.

We’re committed to your privacy. We will use the information you provide to us to contact you about our relevant content and services in the form of a newsletter. For more information, check out our Privacy Policy .

Hey, look at this similar content we made for you

Your Ultimate Guide to Vienna’s Open Air Cinemas in 2024

Here's a list of Vienna's summer open air cinemas, complete with our tips on the films you shouldn't miss!

14 hidden places in Vienna that only the locals really know

Do it like the locals and hang out at those 14 places in Vienna that are not to be found on...

6 cosy Vienna cafes where to snuggle by a fireplace and lose yourself in a good book

With these, you'll be happy it's cold and grey outside

BECOME A WÜRSTEL!

Sign up to our newsletter & have the hottest stuff of the city sent straight to your inbox.

We’re committed to your privacy. We will use the information you provide to us to contact you about our relevant content and services in the form of a newsletter. For more information, check out our Privacy Policy.

We want to hear from you!

Privacy Overview

This site uses affiliates. Thank you for buying through our links and supporting this blog.

14 Best Day Trips from Vienna

• March 1, 2024
• Austria , Europe

Renowned for its rich history, grand architecture, and great vibe, Vienna is a city that attracts visitors from all over the world. From its majestic palaces and elegant opera houses to its cozy coffee shops and lively markets, Vienna has something for everyone to enjoy.

Own transport

Organized tours, public transport, where to stay in vienna, best day trips from vienna, klosterneuburg abbey, seegrotte hinterbrühl, vienna woods, eisenstadt & esterhazy palace, wachau valley, mauthausen concentration camp, bratislava, slovakia, cesky krumlov, czech republic, budapest, hungary, prague, czech republic, best time to visit vienna for day trips, planning a trip to vienna.

But what makes Vienna even more special is its strategic location, which makes it a great gateway to explore its neighboring regions. I have visited Vienna countless times, but what I like best about the city is the numerous day trip options it provides. 

In this guide, I have hand-picked the best day trips from Vienna. Whether you’re into old castles, beautiful vineyards, peaceful lakes, or charming villages, there’s an adventure waiting for you!!

In a hurry?  Book your Vienna day tours :

These are the best day tours from Vienna that you should absolutely free up your itinerary for!

Hallstatt Day Trip With Skywalk

Danube Valley Day Trip

Vienna Woods and Seegrotte Hinterbrühl

3 Castles and Wine Tasting Tour

Best way to go on day trips from Vienna

If you’re planning a day trip from Vienna, you have various options to reach your destination. Renting a car in Vienna is pretty straightforward and will give you the most flexibility. But if you’d rather sit back, relax, and let someone else do the driving, then public transport or organized tours are the way to go.

Depending on the destination you’d like to visit some transport options might be more convenient than others, so make sure to read my recommendations for the individual day trip destinations.

Renting a car will give you the freedom to go wherever you want, whenever you want. It’s perfect if you like to take things at your own pace and maybe discover some remote areas or hidden spots along the way. In Vienna, renting a car is pretty straightforward. Check Discover Cars which offers some great deals on rental cars and remember to buy the vignette before hitting the highway.

For a hassle-free experience opt for an organized tour which will help you maximize your time. . This is by far the easiest way to explore, with transportation and logistics taken care of.

Whether you’re interested in exploring historic cities, charming villages, or breathtaking natural landscapes, there are plenty of organized tours available. I have researched the best tours from Vienna for you, all you need to do is sit back, relax and enjoy your trip.

Vienna’s extensive network of trains and buses offers a convenient way to explore which is not only super efficient but also cost-effective. Just head to one of the main stations like Wien Hauptbahnhof or Wien Mitte, hop on a train or bus, and you’re good to go. Flixbus is another great option to get around.

When planning a trip to Vienna, the best area to stay for sightseeing is the first district (Innere Stadt). This central area is the heart of Vienna and is close to iconic landmarks like the Hofburg Palace, the State Opera, and the Albertina Museum. 

The area is also well-connected by public transportation, allowing easy access to other parts of the city. With a variety of accommodations ranging from luxury hotels to charming boutique options, the first district offers the perfect base for experiencing all that Vienna has to offer.

Hotel Sacher Wien

HISTORY & LUXURY

This famous 5-star hotel in Vienna combines timeless elegance with modern comfort and is an all-time favorite.

CHECK PRICES

Hotel Am Parkring

Located in the highest building on Ringstrasse, this hotel offers modern rooms with the best views over Vienna’s city center.

Check prices

Residence Wollzeile

CENTRAL HOME

This spacious and beautifully decorated apartment offers the comfort of home in the heart of the city center, just a stone’s throw away from St. Stephan’s Cathedral.

Read next: Where to stay in Vienna

In this article, I have carefully curated a selection of the best day trips from Vienna, divided into two sections – within Austria and to neighboring countries. If you’re crossing the border make sure to check the entry requirements for your passport.

Vienna day trips to nearby towns

A day trip from Vienna to Klosterneuburg Abbey offers a great mix of history, culture, and nature. This beautiful abbey was founded over 900 years ago and is an architectural masterpiece that houses a huge collection of art and artifacts. Plus, the abbey is surrounded by vineyards, making it a great destination for wine enthusiasts looking to try some of the region’s best wines. 

Getting to Klosterneuburg from Vienna

Train: 15-20 minutes Drive: 15 km / 30 minutes

To get to Klosterneuburg by train, you can catch regular services from Vienna’s Spittelau station towards St. Pölten. If you travel by car, simply take the B14 towards Klosterneuburg and follow signs for the abbey once you arrive in the vicinity.

Make sure to book your day ticket for Klosterneuburg Abbey in advance and bring enough time to visit the wine cellar too, it was my highlight.

Best tours of Klosterneuburg from Vienna

Explore Klosterneuburg and its surrounding vineyards on this e-bike tour and combine sightseeing with wine tastings. Or join this guided tour that explores three castles in the Danube Valley, including Klosterneuburg Abbey, and indulge in wine tastings along the way for the perfect mix of history and gastronomy. 

Book your adventure: E-Bike Wine Culture Tour Day ticket for Klosterneuburg Abbey 3 Castles and Wine Tasting Tour in Danube Valley from Vienna

Located just a short distance from Vienna, the Hinterbrühl cave is home to one of the largest underground lakes in Europe. It originated from a former gypsum mine and has since been transformed into a fascinating underground wonderland.

Make sure to take a guided tour that lets you explore the caverns, enjoy the shimmering blue waters of the lake, and learn about the history and geology of the area.

Additionally, the surrounding Vienna Woods provide fantastic opportunities for scenic walks or outdoor adventures.

Getting to Hinterbrühl from Vienna

Train: 45 minutes Drive: 25 km / 30 minutes

Getting to Hinterbrühl is easiest by road. Take the A21 highway and follow the signs for Hinterbrühl. You can also take the train to Mödling and from there continue with a bus to Maria Enzersdorf. However, you’ll need to walk the last bit which takes roughly 15 minutes.

Best tours of Hinterbrühl from Vienna

I highly recommend this half-day trip which takes you on a journey to explore the fascinating underground caverns at Seegrotte Hinterbrühl. The highlight of the tour is a boat ride across the shimmering blue water of the underground lake. Plus, you’ll learn about the stunning rock formations and the history of the mine.

Book your adventure: Vienna Woods and Seegrotte Hinterbrühl Half Day Trip

The Vienna Woods are the perfect day trip from Vienna for nature enthusiasts. This massive forest area, just a stone’s throw from the city, offers plenty of outdoor adventures.

Here you can go on hikes along well-marked trails, explore charming villages, and enjoy breathtaking views from stunning viewpoints. Plus, you’ll find historical sites like Mayerling and Heiligenkreuz Abbey (Abbey of the Holy Cross) adding an extra layer of culture to your experience.

Getting to Vienna Woods from Vienna

Train: 30-45 minutes Drive: 30-45 kilometers / 45 minutes

There are many options to reach the Vienna Woods by public transport, depending on which part of the Vienna Woods you want to visit. If you’d rather drive, simply head out of Vienna on the B1 or take the A21 to Alland.

Best tours of Vienna Woods from Vienna

Visit Mayerling Lodge and Heiligenkreuz Abbey, and enjoy the stunning Vienna Woods on this guided tour from Vienna. 

Or explore the vineyards around the Vienna Woods in Lower Austria on this small-group wine tour from Vienna. You’ll hike along forest trails to reach a local vineyard for an open-air wine tasting led by an expert winemaker.

Book your adventure: Vienna Woods, Mayerling and Heiligenkreuz Private Tour from Vienna Vienna Woods Wine Tour – Wines, Vines & Good Times!

Carnuntum is a rebuilt Roman city that offers fascinating insights into the life of ancient Rome. Here you’ll explore the old streets, visit the gladiator school, see the ancient baths, and get a real feel for what life in Roman society was like back then.

Getting to Carnuntum from Vienna

Train: 1 hour 10 minutes Drive: 50 km / 50 minutes

To reach Carnuntum hop on one of the hourly trains from Vienna Rennweg to Wolfsthal and get off at Petronell-Carnuntum. From the station, it’s just a short 15-minute walk. If you’re driving from Vienna, take the A4 towards Budapest/airport, exit at Bruck/Leitha and follow B211 and signs for Carnuntum.

Best tours of Carnuntum from Vienna

There are no organized tours available from Vienna to Carnuntum, so I’d recommend you hop on a train, get your ticket for the Roman City of Carnuntum tour, and explore the Roman city on your own. Make sure to buy the small booklet offered at the entrance for 1€, it offers lots of valuable information.

Book your adventure: Roman City of Carnuntum Admission

Eisenstadt is a charming town known for the stunning Esterhazy Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Austria’s most prestigious landmarks. 

Make sure to check out out it’s interior, the exquisite artwork, and the musical heritage of the renowned composer Joseph Haydn, who spent much of his life in Eisenstadt.

Additionally, a day trip to Eisenstadt will let you experience the city’s vibrant culinary scene, with cafes and traditional restaurants serving delicious local specialties. For authentic Austrian food, check out the restaurant Haydnbräu in the city center. 

Getting to Eisenstadt from Vienna

Train: 55 minutes Drive: 60 km / 1 hour

To get from Vienna to Eisenstadt by car, simply take the A3 highway towards Eisenstadt/Südburgenland. Follow the signs for Eisenstadt, they’ll lead you right into the heart of the town. Alternatively, you can opt for one of the hourly direct trains leaving from Vienna Meidling.

Best tours of Eisenstadt from Vienna

There aren’t any Vienna to Eisenstadt day trip tours, so I’d recommend you hop on a train and explore the Esterhazy Palace on this guided tour or learn how to make olive oil while discovering the region.

Book your adventure: Esterhazy Palace Guided Tour Pannolio Olive Experience in Eisenstadt

Melk, a charming town by the Danube River, is famous for its stunning Melk Abbey, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its beautiful architecture and impressive library. 

Here you get to explore the abbey’s halls and wander through its beautiful gardens overlooking the river. The city Melk is home to narrow streets with cozy cafes and shops, perfect for grabbing a bite to eat or picking up souvenirs. Make sure to stop at Cafe Mistlbacher and try their local specialty cakes, the Wachauer and Melker Torte.

Getting to Melk from Vienna

Train: 50 minutes Drive: 90 km / 1.5 hours

To get to Melk by train, hop on a train from Vienna Westbahnhof to St. Pölten where you can change to a local train to Melk. If you’re driving, simply take the A1 highway and exit at Melk.

Best tours of Melk Abbey from Vienna

Join this guided day trip to Melk Abbey and the scenic Danube Valley where you’ll visit the abbey and enjoy a relaxing cruise along the Danube River. 

If you’re a foodie like me, make sure to join this food tour where you’ll try all the tasty specialties the region has to offer, or opt for this tour that combines visiting the Abbey with wine tasting in family-run Austrian taverns.

Book your adventure: Melk Abbey and Danube Valley Day Trip from Vienna Wachau Valley Small-Group Tour and Wine Tasting from Vienna Culinary tour in Melk

Wachau, situated along the Danube River, is a  UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its picturesque landscapes, medieval castles, and renowned vineyards. 

Explore its charming villages and indulge in local delicacies like apricot treats and famous wines, or go for a hike through the beautiful landscape and enjoy nature.

I love exploring the valley by bicycle and stopping in different villages along the way to enjoy their charming vibes and delicious food. Make sure to try the valley’s famous apricots!

Getting to Wachau from Vienna

Train: 1.5 to 2 hours Drive: 100 km / 1.5 to 2 hours

To get to Wachau by car, take the A1 highway towards Linz/Salzburg and follow signs for Wachau. If you prefer public transport, you can hop on a train to Melk and from there take a train to St. Lorenz/Wachau. However, this is quite the journey and I’d recommend traveling by car or opting for an organized tour.

Best tours of Wachau from Vienna

The best way to experience the Wachau region is this small-group tour with wine tasting . You will visit charming villages where you’ll indulge in local delicacies and taste the region’s best wines at traditional wineries. 

If you’re a nature enthusiast, then don’t miss this private hiking tour through the Wachau Valley which takes you through the beautiful landscape and past castle ruins.

Book your adventure: Danube Valley Day Trip from Vienna Wachau Valley Wine Tasting Bike Tour from Vienna Wachau Valley Small-Group Tour and Wine Tasting from Vienna 4-Hour Private Alpine Hiking Tour ‘In the footsteps of king Lionheart’ Wachau for Adventurers Wine tasting on traditional wooden boats in Wachau Valley

Mauthausen Concentration Camp is a former Nazi concentration camp and a reminder of the atrocities committed during World War II. Here, you will get insights into the realities of the Holocaust and learn about the camp’s history and significance in the context of the Holocaust.

I’m not a fan of history, but visiting the Mauthausen Concentration Camp was a truly grounding experience and my most memorable day trip from Vienna.

Getting to Mauthausen from Vienna

Train: 2.5 hours Drive: 170 km / 2-2.5 hours

Reaching the Mauthausen Memorial by public transport is a bit tricky, you’ll need to take a train to Linz first and then change to a train to Mauthausen followed by a 25-minute walk to the Memorial. Driving, on the other hand, is very straightforward, simply take the A1 highway direction Salzburg, exit at St. Valentine, and follow signs for Mauthausen.

Best tours of Mauthausen from Vienna

By far the best way to experience the camp is with this tour of Mauthausen Concentration Camp . You’ll explore the camp grounds, visit the memorial, and learn about the camp’s cruel history.

Book your adventure: Mauthausen Concentration Camp Day Trip from Vienna

Graz is Austria’s second-largest city and boasts a well-preserved old town, vibrant arts scene, and culinary delights. Here you get to explore the iconic Clock Tower, the medieval Graz Cathedral, and the Kunsthaus Graz. Plus, the city’s relaxed atmosphere and friendly locals make it a popular destination for a day trip.

When you get hungry, head over to Der Steirer, my favorite restaurant in Graz. They serve super delicious traditional Austrian food and have the best Backhendl in the city.

Getting to Graz from Vienna

Train: 2.5 hours Drive: 200 km / 2-3 hours

To reach Graz by train, simply catch one of the hourly direct trains from Vienna Meidling to Graz Hauptbahnhof. If you prefer driving, then take E59 and exit at Graz.

Best tours of Graz from Vienna

There are no organized tours from Vienna to Graz, so I’d recommend hopping on a train to get there. Then join this Old Town walking tour to discover the highlights of Graz. 

If you are looking for a different perspective, check out this flight over Graz offering breathtaking views of the city and its major attractions.

Book your adventure: Graz Old Town Highlights Private Walking Tour Private Bike Tour of Graz Top Attractions with Guide Sightseeing flight over Graz

A day trip from Vienna to Hallstatt is a must-do for everyone visiting the Austrian capital. The charming lakeside village Hallstatt is renowned for its stunning scenery and rich cultural heritage. You can explore its narrow streets, visit the iconic Hallstatt Skywalk for panoramic views, or enjoy a boat ride on Lake Hallstatt. 

With its unique setting located between mountains and the lake, Hallstatt is one of the most scenic day trips from Vienna.

My favorite thing to do at Hallstatt is grabbing take-away coffee and pastries from Cafe Maislinger and finding a nice spot at the lake to sit and enjoy the treats while soaking up the beautiful landscape. 

Read next: Your guide to visiting Hallstatt

Getting to Hallstatt from Vienna

Train: 3.5 to 4.5 hours Drive: 290 kilometers / 3.5-4 hours

To reach Hallstatt by train, take the train to Attnang-Puchheim and then change to a regional train bound for Hallstatt. To drive from Vienna to Hallstatt simply head onto A1 direction Salzburg, exit at Regau and follow B145 to Hallstatt.

Whether you travel by train or car, make sure to join this private walking tour once in Hallstatt. It offers insights into the village’s history, culture, and must-see landmarks.

Best tours of Hallstatt from Vienna

For a hassle-free experience join this guided Vienna to Hallstatt day trip . It includes a visit to the Hallstatt Skywalk which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and lake. Plus, you’ll have plenty of free time to try some Austrian specialties over lunch and explore the village and its narrow streets.

Book your adventure: Gems of Hallstatt – Private Walking Tour Hallstatt Day Trip from Vienna With Skywalk

It’s no surprise my hometown Salzburg is my favorite city in Austria and I highly recommend taking a day trip from Vienna to visit its charming old town, see the beautiful Baroque architecture and experience the picturesque Alpine landscape.

Explore the city’s narrow cobblestone streets and iconic landmarks like the Hohensalzburg Fortress and Mirabell Palace. Make sure to take a coffee break at one of the city’s traditional cafes like Tomaselli to enjoy the specialties Verlängerter and Sachertorte while soaking up the city’s charm. 

Plus, as the birthplace of Mozart and the filming location of “The Sound of Music”, Salzburg is the perfect day trip from Vienna for music lovers.

Read next: Salzburg Itinerary

Getting to Salzburg from Vienna

Train: 2.5 hours Drive: 300 km / 3-4 hours

There are direct trains from Vienna’s main stations to Salzburg Hauptbahnhof. If you’re driving from Vienna, take the A1 towards Salzburg and follow signs towards Salzburg until you reach the Mozart city.

Best tours of Salzburg from Vienna

There are many organized day trips to Salzburg from Vienna available. This small-group day trip is great and will let you experience all of Salzburg’s main attractions. It takes you to Mozart’s birthplace and the famous Mirabell Palace and Gardens as well as the stunning Salzburg Cathedral. You’ll also have plenty of free time to explore the old town on your own. 

If you’re a fan of The Sound of Music, make sure to join the original Sound of Music Tour . For foodies, I’d recommend this fun cooking class where you’ll learn how to make my favorite Austrian dessert, authentic apple strudel.

Book your adventure: Salzburg Small-Group Day Trip from Vienna Salzburg Old Town Highlights Private Walking Tour Original Sound of Music Tour Salzburg With Schnitzel and Noodle Best of Mozart Concert at Fortress Hohensalzburg in Salzburg Austrian Apple Strudel Cooking Class including Lunch in Salzburg

Day trips from Vienna to neighboring countries

Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia, offers a charming mix of history, culture, and modernity. Its historic center is characterized by medieval architecture and cobblestone streets and is easily explored on foot.

The iconic Bratislava Castle sits atop a hill overlooking the city and was my highlight of Bratislava. Here you’ll get to enjoy stunning panoramic views of the Danube River and the surrounding landscapes. Other must-see landmarks of Bratislava include the St. Martin’s Cathedral, Michael’s Gate, and the lively Old Town Hall Square. 

If you’re looking for a day trip option from Vienna that’s quick and easy to reach by public transport, Bratislava is your city!

Getting to Bratislava from Vienna

Train: 50 minutes Drive: 70 km / 1 hour

To travel to Bratislava from Vienna by train, you can take direct trains from Vienna’s Westbahnhof station to Bratislava’s main railway station, Hlavná stanica. Driving to Bratislava is straightforward as well, simply follow highway A4 until you reach the city.

Best tours of Bratislava from Vienna

There are many different tours from Vienna to Bratislava available, but this day trip is my favorite. It combines your visit to Bratislava with a catamaran cruise on the Danube back to Vienna. 

If you want more flexibility in exploring Bratislava I recommend renting a car or taking public transport. Make sure to explore the city on a walking tour before you experience the original beer bike tour or indulge in Slovakian specialties on this traditional food tour .

Book your adventure: Bratislava Day Trip from Vienna With Catamaran Cruise on Danube Private Bratislava Grand City Tour Bratislava: 2- Hour Private Walking Tour Bratislava by speedboat Original Bratislava Beer Bike Tours – All-you-can-drink Bratislava Traditional Food Tour

Cesky Krumlov is a charming medieval town situated in the countryside of the Czech Republic. 

With its stunning castle, narrow cobblestone streets, and beautiful riverside setting, Cesky Krumlov makes you feel like you’re stepping back in time. Here you’ll find artisan shops, cozy cafes, and traditional Czech restaurants where you can experience the local culture and ambiance. Check out the restaurant Svejk, I loved my lunch here on my trip to Cesky Krumlov.

Getting to Cesky Krumlov from Vienna

Train: 4 – 5 hours Drive: 200 km / 3 hours

To reach Cesky Krumlov by train, you can take a direct train from Vienna’s Westbahnhof station to Ceske Budejovice, then transfer to a connecting train to Cesky Krumlov. If you’re opting to drive, then take the A1 and A7 highways to Freistadt and follow B310 into the Czech Republic.

Best tours of Cesky Krumlov from Vienna

Cesky Krumlov offers a lot to do and see. Various small-group tours including guided tours of the town’s highlights are available from Vienna. 

If you are looking for a different sightseeing experience, make sure to check out the wooden raft river cruise or opt for an evening tour of Cesky Krumlov’s Old Town.

Book your adventure: Cesky Krumlov Small-Group Day Trip from Vienna Cesky Krumlov Old Town Private Walking Tour Private evening tour Cesky Krumlov Old Town and Castle area Český Krumlov: Wooden Raft River Cruise

Budapest is the lively capital of Hungary and offers a huge range of attractions. From its stunning architecture and rich history to its relaxing thermal baths and delicious cuisine, Budapest has something for everyone. 

Here you’ll get to explore iconic landmarks like the Buda Castle, Fisherman’s Bastion, and the Parliament Building, and indulge in traditional Hungarian dishes. I stopped for dinner at the restaurant Menza Étterem és Kávéház and loved the restaurant and their super delicious goulash. 

Read next: Budapest Itinerary

Getting to Budapest from Vienna

Train: 2.5 hours Drive: 250 km / 2.5-3 hours

To reach Budapest by train, you can take direct trains from Vienna’s central stations to Budapest’s main railway stations, Keleti or Nyugati. If you prefer to drive, the A4 and M1 highways connect Vienna and Budapest, offering a straightforward route with the opportunity to explore charming towns and landscapes along the way.

Best tours of Budapest from Vienna

For an organized day trip from Vienna to Budapest I recommend this guided tour taking you all of the city’s top sights. You’ll see Fisherman’s Bastion, the Hungarian Parliament, Heroes’ Square, and St. Stephen’s Basilica. But Budapest has so much more than sightseeing to offer.

Enjoy a relaxing day at the famous Széchenyi Thermal Spa , known for its healing waters and stunning architecture, or explore caves and tunnels beneath the city’s surface on this caving experience .

Book your adventure: Budapest Small-Group Day Trip from Vienna Half-day Wine Tasting Tour in Etyek Wine Country near Budapest Budapest Culinary & Wine Walk Széchenyi Thermal Spa Full-Day Tickets / Thermal BeerSpa + Széchenyi ticket (skip the line) Budapest ️Highlights️ Live Guided Segway Tour Adventure Caving Experience in Budapest

Prague is often referred to as the “City of a Hundred Spires” thanks to its many cathedrals and churches. Explore its stunning medieval old town, beautiful castle, and charming cobblestone streets, to soak up the atmosphere of this historic city.

Here, you’ll get to visit iconic landmarks like the Charles Bridge, Prague Castle, and the Astronomical Clock in the Old Town Square. The city’s vibrant cultural and art scene gives it a lively atmosphere. Make sure to take a stroll along the Vltava River, it was one of my highlights.

Getting to Prague from Vienna

Train: 4 hours Drive: 330 km / 3 – 4 hours

From Vienna take a direct train to Prague’s main railway station, Praha hlavní nádraží. If you rather drive, you can get to Prague by following A22 and D3.

Best tours of Prague from Vienna

Prag has a lot to offer. For a guided day trip from Vienna to Prague, I recommend this small group tour taking you to all of Prag’s main attractions including Prague Castle, Charles Bridge, and the Old Town Square. If you’re a foodie, make sure to join this amazing food tour where you’ll learn about the the city’s culinary traditions and sample authentic Czech dishes.

Book your adventure: Prague Small-Group Day Trip from Vienna Best of Prague Walking tour and Cruise with Authentic Czech Lunch Prague Foodie Tour Pubs of Prague Historic Tour with Drinks Included

The best time to visit Vienna for day trips is during spring (April to June) and fall (September to October). During these months, the region enjoys mild weather, making it perfect for exploringthe surroundings. 

Additionally, these months are generally less crowded than the peak summer season, allowing for a more relaxed experience at Vienna’s top attractions and surrounding destinations.

Vienna is a must-visit city filled with historic architecture, rich culture, and classical music scene. The city’s imperial palaces, famous art galleries, and lively neighborhoods offer a unique blend of past and present.

Austria offers diverse experiences, from rich culture, stunning landscapes, and historic cities like Vienna and Salzburg, to outdoor activities like skiing and hiking in the Alps. For insights on must-visit attractions and tips to make the most of your experience in this wonderful country make sure to check all my articles on Austria!

Vienna: Vienna itinerary Where to stay in Vienna Vienna in winter

Hallstatt: Your guide to visiting Hallstatt

Salzburg: Salzburg Itinerary Where to stay in Salzburg Salzburg in winter

Travel Insurance

Good travel insurance is an absolute must when traveling abroad, and I’ve learned that the hard way!

Now I always get insured before we leave and  Travel Insurance Masters  is my go-to platform to find the best insurance options for the specific trip.

The TIM platform works as a search engine and suggests the best insurance company and insurance plan for your criteria so you don’t end up paying more for things you don’t need! It also takes into account your age, nationality, destination etc. which can greatly impact the final price.

You can get your quote & provider recommendations  here.

Zi @Craving Adventure

Zi is the Founder and Editor in Chief behind Craving Adventure.

Leave a Reply Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Name  *

Email  *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Post Comment

Home » Travel Guides » Austria » 15 Best Day Trips from Vienna

15 Best Day Trips from Vienna

Vienna truly is a fairytale European capital city that is bursting at the seams with intriguing history whilst remaining impossibly beautiful and well preserved at the same time.

The historical depth of the area means there are a variety of enviable day trips you can embark on from town, from exploring the breathtaking nature of Austria’s alpine foothills, to exploring ancient sites and magnificent castles.

The always reliable European rail lines grant easy access to a number of daytime destinations and the beautiful countryside adds to the overall experience.

Here are the 15 best and most sought-after day trips to take from the city of Vienna.

Just under 300 km away from Vienna is the fairytale city of Prague, full of evocative architecture, towers and spires reaching up to the sky and a fascinating amount to see and do if you’re willing to undertake the journey.

One of the unmissable highlights is the famous old town, known for the level of its preservation and a great place to embark on a walking tour from.

Amongst the many magnificent castles and basilicas to visit, make sure you get to see the Old Royal Palace and the St Vitus Basilica.

Both are traveller favourites and incredibly worth the time.

To squeeze in the most you can with your few hours in Prague on a day trip from Vienna, it’s a good idea to think about booking a city tour that’ll give you the chance to see the highlights in the space of a day.

2. Bratislava

Another border that is well worth crossing is the Austrian-Slovakian one.

When you do, you’ll have the chance to experience the intriguing and perfectly picturesque city of Bratislava, a conveniently close 60 minutes away from Vienna.

Make sure you don’t pass up the opportunity to visit Bratislava’s Old Town where the neo-Renaissance style houses, mansions and palaces paint an attractive picture of the Slovakian capital.

If you want a taste of some authentic Slovakian cuisine and drink, St. Michael’s Street is full of restaurants and cafes that will satisfy your hunger.

A Vienna to Bratislava day trip is an ideal way to spend the day away from the city and introduce you to another and the possibility of a whole other trip one day in the future.

3. Budapest

For those who aren’t fazed by the idea of spending a few hours each way journeying, the opportunity to visit the incredibly beautiful city of Budapest should not be passed up if you find yourself with time on your hands in Vienna.

You can arrive by train or car, both stunningly scenic ways to get there and allowing you enough to time to explore.

Known as the “Paris of the East”, Budapest is a veritable wealth of UNESCO World Heritage sites like Matthias Church and Vajdahunyad Castle to name but a few.

Other highlights include the City Woodland Park and the various Parliament buildings; though if you want a concise introduction to the city’s many attractions then join a day trip tour that’ll show you the best bits in a few hours.

4. Lainzer Wildlife Park

Nestled into a small area of the Vienna Woods, Lainzer Wildlife Park is famed for its abundance of deer and boar and its reputation for being an enchanting haven of incredibly old beech and oak trees.

Not only an important area of conservation, it’s also a beautiful place to lose yourself for a day and stroll along one of the numerous footpaths where Emperors and Empresses once walked and hunted.

For unrestricted views, head up to the Hubertuswarte observation tower on the Kaltbründlberg which stands at 14 metres high and offers breathtaking panoramas of the natural reserve.

5. Melk Abbey

Owning the enviable accolade of the “Best Historical Destination in the World”, Melk Abbey is one of those attractions that you really do have to visit if you happen to be in Vienna.

Built atop a rocky mountainside with views across the whole of the breathtaking Danube Valley, the abbey is a majestic Baroque style building that is overflowing with priceless art and contains impeccable gardens and is filled to the brim with enough history to excite history buffs to no end.

6. Klosterneuburg Abbey

Upon arriving, you’ll find a huge network of magnificent buildings, each more majestic than the last and all full to the brim of Austrian history that is sure to fascinate each and every traveller.

Just north of Vienna and dating back to the 12th Century, Klosterneuburg Abbey contains attractions like the Verduner Altar, the Leopold Chapel and courtyard and The Marble Hall to name a few.

Full of domes, copper, frescoes and staircases, the complex of buildings is truly a sight to behold and worth a visit to the Vienna Woods where its located.

7. Danube Valley

Considering its only an hour away from Vienna, the Danube Valley is a world away from city life and is considered to be so attractive that it’s been officially named as a World Heritage Site on account of its aesthetic beauty.

The best part is between the towns of Krems and Melk that has unfettered views of the Alpine valley in all its natural glory.

8. The Roman Town of Carnuntum

Its most recent discovery being made in 2011, the Roman Town of Carnuntum is still uncovering intriguing artefacts that continue to grow its fame as a fascinating day trip from Vienna.

Surrounded by the vast expanses of the fields of the March-Donauland region, Carnuntum was fought over numerous times by Roman.

Today its known as the Archaeological Park Carnuntum, featuring some incredibly impressive reconstructed Roman buildings and containing museums, re-enactments and original ruins.

9. Laxenburg Castle

Originally built as a market town, Laxenburg Castle is alluring and breathtaking at the same time.

Only 40 minutes from Vienna, it’s the ideal location for a brief but fascinating day trip.

Wander through postcard perfect gardens and wild forests or find tranquillity in floating along in the boats available at the lake.

When you get hungry, make the most of the various restaurants peppered around the grounds or pack your own lunch and eat in one of the many peaceful, sunlit spots.

10. Salzburg

Home to some of the largest castles in Europe, surrounded by the Alps and its forests, Salzburg is undoubtedly one of the prettiest destinations in Europe and easily one of the most sought after day trips in Vienna.

With a journey that takes less than 3 hours, there are endless attractions for the historically inclined traveller.

Wander the banks of the River Salzach, lose yourself in the streets of the World Heritage-listed Old Town and visit the positively huge Hohensalzburg Castle.

It’s also worth noting that Salzburg is the birth home of the world renowned composer Mozart and anyone with an interest should visit the aptly named, Mozart’s Birthplace museum, one of the most famous in the world.

11. The Vienna Woods

Loved by the Viennese people just as much as visiting travellers, the Vienna Woods offer a perfect getaway a mere stone’s throw from the center of the capital.

Here you’ll find a number of historic sites, one of the most famous of which is a beautiful monastery – the Cistercian Abbey of Heiligenkreuz.

If its stunning scenery you’re after, then make the journey up Vienna’s very own miniature mountain, the Kahleberg, which can also be found in the Vienna Woods.

Finally, take some time to visit the largest underground lake in Europe and learn about the fascinating way the former mine turned into the attraction it is today.

12. Baden Bei Wien

Formerly an ancient Roman town named Aquae, the settlement known as Baden Bei Wien is now a spa-town that is the perfect way to relax on a day trip from Vienna that is incredibly easy to get to.

The town is famous for its curative and therapeutic waters and has been for a staggering 2000 years, meaning its a popular spot for visitors and locals looking to soak up their benefits.

13. Grinzing

The charming little village of Grinzing lies less than 20km to the northeast of Vienna and the allure of its location surrounded by forests draws in many travellers to explore its winding streets.

Peppered with gardens and no small amount of history of its survival of the war, Grinzing is an interesting place to explore whilst feeling suitably removed from big city life.

Containing an impressive number of Austrian restaurants, the village is also ideal for sampling truly authentic, not to mention delicious Austrian cuisine.

If you want to walk off all that food, then head up one of the hiking trails in the nearby Kahlenberg and Leopoldsberg hills.

14. Laa an der Thaya

A perfect and fascinating insight into the medieval era experienced in the area, Laa an der Thaya is a settlement just over 60km away from Vienna on the Czech frontier.

Filled with wonderfully preserved snippets of history, not to mention beautiful Gothic architecture, the town is an excellent day trip for history enthusiasts.

Highlights include the huge Laa Castle, full of towers and still-standing original battlements.

For more medieval attractions, head to the outer walls of the town and walk the ramparts that once protected its people.

Finally, as with many Viennese towns and villages, you can’t pass up a trip to the beautiful Old Town.

15. Kreuzenstein Castle

Looking impossibly reminiscent to Hogwarts, Kreuzenstein Castle was built in medieval times and with all its turrets, towers and spires is about as fairytale in its appearance as it’s possible for a castle to be.

Only a few kilometres north of Vienna, the castle is well elevated and overlooks the village of Leobendorf.

Its location snugly nestled between the Vienna Woods and the Danube River makes for some truly beautiful panoramic views when looking out from one of the many vantage points.

As far as castles go, Kreuzenstein is probably one of the most impressive in Vienna.

15 Best Day Trips from Vienna:

• Lainzer Wildlife Park
• Klosterneuburg Abbey
• Danube Valley
• The Roman Town of Carnuntum
• Laxenburg Castle
• The Vienna Woods
• Baden Bei Wien
• Laa an der Thaya
• Kreuzenstein Castle

12 Stunning Day Trips from Vienna

Vienna, Austria is a one of the most popular destinations in central Europe and is often included on many European itineraries. This is of no surprise given its history and position of power less than 200 years ago.

Whether you are visiting Vienna for the cafes or classical music, or maybe to visit one of the many breathtaking palaces sometimes a bit of a day trip helps recharge the batteries.

There is a lot to see outside of Vienna and in surrounding countries. Below you will find a range of day trips from Vienna that you can take a bus to in less than an hour to a more signficant road trips through vineyards.

Read | 2 Days in Vienna, Austria

Table of Contents

11 Day Trips from Vienna, Austria

Below many wonderful bloggers from across the globe have helped contribute their favorite day trips from Vienna. I love doing collaborative posts because it also inspires me to visit places I’ve never considered. Share your appreciation to contributors by giving their link a click!

Contributed by Marina of PlacesofJuma

A lovely place for an unforgettable day trip from Vienna is the charming town of Eisenstadt. It’s the political and cultural center of Burgenland. Visitors just love the mix of a long history, cultural events, and the modern outlook. Actually, there is a lot to see in the city center between the pedestrian zone, the palace park, and the parliament building. The whole inner city is stuffed with lovely details and many highlights.

The main attraction in Eisenstadt is the Esterházy Palace . It dates back to a fortified 13th-century Gothic castle. For more than 40 years, the composer Joseph Haydn was inspired by Esterházy Palace’s special atmosphere to create exceptional music to accompany historic events. The Haydn Room, named after the composer, is still one of the world’s best – acoustically – and loveliest concert halls.

Lovely are also the beautiful palace grounds. On a walk, you will enjoy the lovely botanic garden, a small lake, and even a public pool area. On any case, don’t miss the Gloriette (the Esterházys’ former hunting lodge), Haydn’s House , and Haydn’s church , which contains Haydn’s mausoleum and the Stations of the Cross are all worth visiting too.

It’s easy to organize the day trip from Vienna to Eisenstadt:  You can ether take the train (1:10 hour), the bus (1:20 hour) or the car/taxi (45 minutes).

Contributed by Cazzy of Dream Big, Travel Far

If you’re looking for a unique day trip from Vienna, then Linz is the perfect place to visit. Located just 1 hour and 40 minutes from Vienna, Linz is easily accessible via train or renting a car and driving. Linz is the 3rd largest city in Austria which means there are plenty of great things to see and do.

Some of the highlights of Linz include the charming Old Town which features the wonderful Hauptplatz with its many restaurants and cafes, a perfect spot for lunch. Make sure you visit the “New Cathedral”, also known as Mariendom (which is actually the largest church in Austria) for beautiful views over Linz from the 135m spire.

Other great spots to visit in the city centre include Linz Castle , the many great museums on offer ( Schlossmuseum Linz is a popular choice), and don’t forget to check out the Mural Harbor for some pretty cool graffiti art.   Another great activity located not far from Linz town centre is a trip to the Mauthausen Concentration Camp . This is a painful, but necessary and very informative place to visit that will allow you to delve into the history of this Nazi concentration camp. It’s only 30 minutes from the town centre of Linz and accessible via bus.

Contributed by Vaibhav Mehta from The Wandering Vegetable

Located in the mountain region of Salzkammergut in the Gmunden district, Hallstatt is one of the most beautiful villages in Austria. In fact, it is considered to be one of the most visually pleasing villages/lake towns in the world. It is a popular day-trip destination for travellers and has to be included in your Europe trip itinerary . Hallstatt is situated about 288 km away from Vienna.

You can get to Hallstatt from Vienna either by car or by train. It takes about 3.5 hours to get to Hallstatt by car and a little over 4 hours to reach by train. To get to Hallstatt by train, depart from Wien Hauptbahnhof, make a transfer at Attnang-Puchheim train station and arrive at either Hallstatt central station or Obertraun-Dachsteinhöhlen train station.

The lake town greets you with such stunning scenery that you feel like a day’s less to explore the place. It looks like a fairytale town straight out of your childhood storybook. Strolling around Hallstatt and getting lost in the charming streets is an experience of a kind.

There are several things to do in Hallstatt like walking along the Hallstatt Lake Promenade , visiting the lovely Market Square and having a nice meal at a restaurant/cafe, exploring the iconic Hallstatt’s Salt Mine (Salzwelten), enjoying the paradisiacal alpine view of Hallstatt from the Hallstatt Skywalk , visiting the Catholic Church of Hallstatt , and touring the Welterbemuseum Hallstatt .

Do not miss out on doing a boat ride across the Hallstatt Lake. It is one of the most calming and memorable experiences you’ll ever have. If you’re a foodie, then do visit the Rudolfsturm restaurant for some fresh seafood, a delicious garlic soup, and a picturesque lake view.

Contributed by Laura of Cruise Lifestyle

Dürnstein is just an hour’s drive from Austria’s capital, making it a great option for a day trip from Vienna.  Its location on the banks of the Danube means it can also be visited on a river cruise.  Dürnstein is a quaint, fairy-tale town, best known for it’s vineyards but there are many other things to do here if visiting for the day.

Stift Dürnstein is the most iconic landmark of the Wachau region, recognised by its ornate white and blue steeple.  You will come across the former monastery during a walk through the town centre and is definitely worth pausing to admire the architecture.

The town is perfect for a leisurely stroll through the cobbled streets, dotted with little shops and cafes.  The region is known for producing apricots and most of the shops sell apricot wine, brandy, liqueur, and jam.  You can sample these if you choose to take a tour of the nearby apricot vineyard; I can confirm that the brandy is very strong! It’s definitely worth walking to the top of the main street ( Hauptstraße ) where you will be rewarded with a spectacular view of the Danube and the Wachau Valley . 

For authentic Austrian cuisine, I’d recommend stopping at Gasthaus Kuenringer, which has a pleasant outside terrace for dining al fresco during the summer months.  I enjoyed drinking a refreshing ‘Hugo’ aperitif, which combines Prosecco, elderflower syrup, sparkling water and mint leaves.

Active visitors can explore Durnstein on the walking and cycling paths on the river bank or even take a canoe along the Danube to admire Dürnstein from the water along with local birds and wildlife.

Mozart’s birthplace or setting of the Sound of Music are most likely one of the reasons Salzburg is on your radar. Austria’s second largest city? is often looked over but it is the perfect size for a day trip with plenty to do that you might find yourself staying the night.

Start your day wandering the UNESCO World Heritage awarded Old Town of Salzburg. Here you will find narrow winding streets with colorful buildings and hanging signs. In the middle of the Old Town is a bright yellow building with the words “Mozarts Geburtshaus” which translates to Mozart’s Birthplace (Getreidegasse 9). It is possible to tour the home, as well as his residence (Makartplatz 8).

Castle and palace lovers will have absolutely no shortage of things to do in Salzburg. Between the commanding Hohensalzburg Fortress towering over the city, the flower-filled gardens at Mirabell Palace , or the impressive rooms of the Salzburg Residenz all the way to the trick fountains of Hellbrunn Palace .

End your day with a stop at Restaurant Stiegl-Keller for a meal (and pint!) with a view over Salzburg.

Contributed by Lina of World of Lina

Graz is Austria’s second-largest city and the capital of the wonderful state Styria. The best way to get there is either by public transport which takes around 2.5 hours or by car. There are direct train and bus connections available a few times a day.

On top of a small hill and overlooking the city, you can spot the Uhrturm – the city’s main sight. To get up there, you can either climb a few hundred very small stairs, follow a windy road on the backside of the hill or take the cable car called Schlossbergbahn . If you’re a bit of an adventurous person, I recommend sliding down the highest underground slide worldwide which can be found inside the Schlossberg hill. It’s not only the fastest way down but also a hell lot of fun!

Another place you shouldn’t miss seeing is the Kunsthaus . It’s a modern art museum where you can admire different exhibitions of contemporary artists. Due to it’s strange look, locals also call it the “Friendly Alien”. For lunch or a good cup of coffee, check out the vegan restaurant Ginko Greenhouse that is located near the main square. It has a great variety of amazing dishes and the best vegan cakes ever!

If you have some time left, make your way to Schloss Eggenberg where you can take an extensive stroll in its beautiful surrounding park.

South Styria

Contributed by Lori of Travelinmad

If you’re longing for a unique day trip from Vienna to a less-traveled locale, head south… to South Styria, an easy 2.5 hour drive.

South Styria (Südsteiermark) is home to charming small towns, rolling hills and enchanting vineyards — a lovely destination anytime of year, though foodies and wine enthusiasts particularly love it in the fall. One of the best things to do is go wine tasting along the 44-mile long South Styrian Wine Road , which rewards road trippers with beautiful scenery, small town wine festivals, and excellent local food and wine.

Winding through quaint towns with inviting wine taverns, the route is reminiscent of Tuscany with its rolling green hills adorned with lush vineyards. If you came for the day but decide to stay, you have your choice of lovely  Sudsteiermark buschenschanks . These country inns along the Wine Road serve local food, their own wine and an overnight stay is easy to arrange.

For lovers of local food, a stop to the Vinofaktur Genussregal in Vogau is on the way and highly recommended. It’s the largest wine shop in the region and features all sorts of delicious foods, beer, and wine produced locally in Styria. For a nominal fee, take the tour and sample your way through the store. Be sure to try the pumpkinseed oil. It’s one of Styria’s most famous local foods and it’s drizzled on everything from meats, cheeses, salads, and even ice cream — delish!

South Styria is an ideal day trip from Vienna, but even better with a few days or longer!

Bratislava, Slovakia

Contributed by Matt from Two Tickets To

Bratislava, the charming capital of neighbouring Slovakia, makes for a perfect day trip from Vienna. This is a city on a different scale – easy to explore on foot, but packed full of enough sights to keep you very busy! An hour’s journey is all it takes to be transported from the sweeping grandeur of Vienna’s palaces and opera houses to the cobbled streets of Bratislava’s Old Town .

Perhaps my favourite thing about Bratislava is its contrasts. This is a city where you can stand under the shadow of a monumentalist Soviet war memorial whilst taking in a perfect view of the iconic renaissance-style Bratislava Castle , towering high above the Danube . At street level, you might walk past the Slovak Radio Building – perhaps the most wonderfully ugly building in Europe – before walking through the medieval-era Michael’s Gate , and into one of the many wonderful pubs and restaurants within the Old Town. 

If you’re looking to try traditional Slovak food during your brief visit to Bratislava, my recommendation would be Koliba Kamzik, which is nestled right in the heart of the action. However, you won’t be without choice in the city center, and you shouldn’t need to walk too far to find somewhere to suit any taste or budget. Once you’ve eaten your fill, dive back into Bratislava’s fascinating maze of streets before making the short trip back to Vienna by bus (shout-out to Flixbus), train or car!

Budapest, Hungary

One of the best parts of traveling around Europe is that in a couple hours you can be in a totally different country surrounded by new sounds and smells. In less than 3-hours you can drive or take a train from Vienna to Budapest, Hungary. While this beautiful capital city is best enjoyed over a few days it is possible to visit for a day trip.

Read | 3 Day Itinerary for Budapest, Hungary

I suggest starting your day admiring the Hungarian Parliament (pictured above) as it is the largest building in Hungary and difficult to miss. Next, cross the Danube to the Buda side of Budapest to wander the castle district. Here you will find The Fisherman’s Bastion built in the 1800’s to the chieftains of Hungary, Matthias Church which boasts an colorfully decorated ceramic tiled roof, and various museums housed inside Buda Castle .

When it is time for something to eat don’t miss out on lángos, a deep fried dough topped with sour cream, cheese, and sometimes meat and potatoes. If you are staying overnight then definitely don’t miss out on ruin pubs and street food from Karaván. To complete your day of exploring Budapest and to treat yourself, head over to the famous Széchenyi Thermal Bath for a dip in the healing waters.

Brno, Czech Republic

Contributed by Melissa from Parenthood and Passports

Brno, Czech Republic is an easy day trip from Vienna. Located just across the Austrian border in the southeastern portion of Czech Republic called Moravia, Brno is worth visiting for at least one day. 

From Vienna, you can reach Brno by train or by car. It takes roughly two hours, which allows for plenty of time in Brno to hit the highlights. Like many cities in Europe, Brno has a picturesque old town area, with cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and stunning cathedrals.

Perched atop a hill in Old Town overlooking the city, the Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul is the most notable cathedral in the city. For a small charge you can climb the cathedral’s spiraling towers and tour the crypt inside the church. But the crypt inside the Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul is only one of the catacombs you can visit in Brno. The Capuchin Crypt is another must-see attraction in Brno.. Although certainly a bit morbid, the ossuary contains dozens of well-preserved mummies of former monks and nobility. 

End your day with a drive through the countryside of Moravia. One of the most scenic regions in Czech Republic, just outside of Brno, you’ll find rolling hills of vibrant green and yellow fields. It’s the perfect place to take in a little serenity and escape the busy city of Vienna for the day.

Prague, Czech Republic

Prague is a 4-hour trip from Vienna, not exactly day trip material but if you are desperate to squeeze it in then I suggest taking the train or even staying over one night. It is one of the best-preserved Medieval cities in the world and a personal favorite.

The city also boasts the largest ancient castle in the world. The Castle District ( Hradčany ) dates back to the 9th century with plenty to see and do. St Vitus Cathedral is an impressive feat of construction with over 100 gargolyles decorating the outside, incredible stained glass windows, and a tower to get a bird’s eye view of Prague. After a wander down Golden Lane where you can peer into historic homes and shops that used to line the streets.

The Old Town Square boasts the oldest operating astrological clock at the Town Hall that goes off twice a day (9:00 and 23:00). A five-minute walk from the square you can arrange to visit the Klementinum to see a baroque library with antique books and globes as well as take a tour of the Astrological Tower .

Read | 3 Days Wandering Medieval Prague

When it is time to take a breather head into U Krale Brabantskeho , a medieval pub where you can enjoy a large glass of their own beer by candlelight. If you’re lucky you might catch the fire dancers and swordsmen!

Wachau Valley

Contributed by Anjali from Travel Melodies

Listed as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Region,  Wachau Valley  in Lower Austria is about an hour away from Vienna that makes it a perfect day-trip destination from Vienna. 

Located between the historic towns of Melk and Krems, Wachau is a narrow stretch (about 22-miles) along the Danube River lined with beautiful vineyards and orchards, charming hamlets, lush rolling hills, forests, imposing castles, abbeys, and medieval ruins.

The easiest and the recommended way to reach Wachau from Vienna is by car. It gives you the freedom to stop wherever and whenever you want. Other options include ÖBB train or a combination of bus and train or Wachau Cruise.

The best places to visit in Wachau are  Krems ,  Dürnstein ,  Aggstein Castle , and  Melk Abbey . One of Europe’s largest Baroque monasteries, Melk Abbey, is stunningly gorgeous and the most impressive site on this trip. Wine lovers wouldn’t want to miss the wine tour.  Domäne Wachau  offers wine tours that include local wine-tasting at the end.

How can you leave one of Europe’s top culinary regions before you sample some of its famous delicacies? You must try  Benedictine Torte  at  Stifts-restaurant  in Melk Abbey,  Wachauer Kugeln  at  Konditorei Raimitz  in Krems, and a glass of wine with a traditional dinner at  Heuriger Höllmül .

Save this article for later!

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Privacy Overview

Where should you travel next? Take the free quiz!

14 Best Day Trips from Vienna

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. Please read  full disclosure  for more information.

While Vienna is one of the best cities to explore in Austria , it’s also the perfect home base for visiting more of the country. Throughout this post, you’ll find 14 of the best day trips from Vienna!

So, what are you waiting for? Get reading and planning your next trip to Austria !

Table of Contents

Bojnice Castle

The stunning Bojnice Castle in Slovakia is definitely one of the most underrated day trips from Vienna . Being one of the best places to see in Slovakia , this castle is a 2 hour and 50-minute drive from Vienna (258 km) and is considered the most beautiful castle in Central Europe. Once you’re there, it’s not hard to see why. The architecture and surroundings give off total fairytale vibes, and the scenery is incredibly photogenic. 

Bojnice Castle costs €13 to enter. This entry ticket includes the castle gallery as well, and you can easily spend a good hour or two wandering inside the castle premises and admiring the interior design. Once you’re finished touring the interior, be sure to take a nice stroll in the castle gardens outside. There’s a gorgeous view from every corner, and you can even enjoy a relaxing picnic in the park. 

If you’re visiting with family, you can also head over to the Bojnice Zoo after seeing the castle. This is one of the most visited zoos in Slovakia and it’s the perfect place to spot African elephants, orangutans, kangaroos, and even Fiji iguanas!

You can also easily pair a trip to Bojnice Castle with a short visit to Čičmany, a traditional folklore village that’s only 45 minutes away by car. This village is famous for its many iconic houses decorated with stunning geometric designs. You can learn a lot about the culture and traditions of the Slovak countryside by wandering the narrow streets there!

Recommended by Jiayi of The Diary of a Nomad

Want to turn it into a weekend trip? Book a night at Hotel Pod zamkom.

Just an hour by train or 2 hours by ferry via the Danube, Slovakia’s capital city, Bratislava, is the perfect size and location for a day trip from Vienna. The two cities lie just 79 kilometers (49 miles) apart. Although they share a lot in common, Bratislava is different enough to offer a nice contrast.

Bratislava served as the legislative center for the Kingdom of Hungary for two centuries between 1536 and 1783, and the Hungarian legacy – along with Bulgarian, Czech, German and Serbian influences – still permeates the city today.

Bratislavský hrad (Bratislava Castle) is the north star and is a great place to start your day trip with a view of the entire city, the river, and the colorful Petrzalka neighborhood  beyond. From the castle yard, you can look directly onto St. Martin’s, the Gothic-Romanesque cathedral where no fewer than 19 Hungarian kings and queens were crowned.

Pass through the 14th-century Michael’s Gate to access Bratislava Old Town, a compact yet charming maze of old city walls, squares, palaces, and modern art sculptures.

Eat lunch at Bratislava Flagship, a brewpub restaurant where you can taste many Slovak specialties including the national dish, Bryndzové halušky – a tasty plate of potato dumplings smothered with sheep’s cheese and topped with crispy bacon.

If you want to pack all the highlights into one day and get a feel for Slovakia’s complex history at the same time, consider signing up for a walking tour that leads you through the Old Town and culminates with the castle.

Recommended by Emily from Wander-Lush

If you want to stay longer, spend the night at ibis Bratislava Centrum.

Just an hour and a half north of Vienna, Austria, and directly across the border, the town of Brno, Czech Republic is worth visiting. An easy day trip from Vienna, there are a lot of great things to do in Brno whether it is a nature experience or city-life that you seek.

Located in the region of Moravia, in southeastern Czechia, Brno is the second-largest city in the country and is easily accessible by both train or car. Start your visit at the beautiful Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul which towers over the city. Climb the church tower for an even more breathtaking view overlooking Brno.

Afterward, head to the Brno Ossuary, the second-largest ossuary in Europe behind the Paris Catacombs. Although it can be a bit grim, touring the ossuary is a must when in Brno. You’ll walk through tunnels of walls made of bones. This underground chamber beneath the Church of St. Jacob is believed to contain the remains of at least 50,000 people. 

After touring the ossuary, roam the charming cobblestone streets of Old Town, for a refreshing and lively experience. Duck into restaurants or shops or wander through the daily vegetable market to enjoy the atmosphere of local life in Brno.

If it is nature you seek, head just outside of Brno to see the beautiful Moravian fields. This largely agricultural area boasts rolling fields of green and yellow that span as far as the eye can see. 

Recommended by Melissa from Parenthood and Passports

Make it a longer trip if you’d like by spending the night at Barcelo Brno Palace.

If you’re looking for a fun day trip from Vienna, Budapest is definitely the perfect option for you. Getting there is super easy because it’s just a three-hour train ride away from the Wien Hauptbahnhof Station, in Vienna, to Keleti Train Station in Budapest.

Although many people like to say that Vienna and Budapest are quite similar, both cities should be on your bucket list , regardless of their similarities, and, most importantly, crossed out from it!

Budapest is a unique and vibrant city full of history and life, beautiful locations, and a vast amount of fun things to do. When you plan a visit to Budapest, you have to make sure to include the most important landmarks of the city, such as the amazing Parliament House, the enchanting Buda Castle, and the majestic Matthias Church, at the very least.

Among the incredible things Budapest has to offer, you can’t go wrong with trying some of the traditional cuisines of the city. Some of my favorite dishes are the chicken paprikash and the goulash, from the main dish section. But if you have a sweet tooth, then you won’t want to miss any of the delicious desserts you can find in Budapest, so you should definitely have a taste of kürtőskalács and kremes cake!

If you want to know more about the city and are looking for a complete Budapest bucket list, including all the places you should visit, experiences you should have, and exquisite food and drinks you should try, check out this link here and you’ll find everything you need to get started on planning your visit.

Recommended by Nat from Boletworldwide

Want to stay longer? Make it a weekend trip and spend the night at Prestige Hotel Budapest.

Cesky Krumlov

Cesky Krumlov  has to be one of the cutest towns in Europe. A small medieval town of roughly 13,000 people, Cesky Krumlov is located in the South Bohemian Region of the Czech Republic.

One of the best things to do in Cesky Krumlov is to just wander the street and absorb the atmosphere of the town. You won’t be able to walk more than a few feet without stopping to snap a picture. It truly feels as though you are walking in a fairytale.

Cesky Krumlov is set on a winding river and below a huge medieval Castle.  The view over the red terracotta rooftops is beautiful and some of the best in Cesky Krumlov.

If you are looking for a day trip from Vienna then Cesky Krumlov definitely needs to be on your list. There are a couple of ways to get to Cesky Krumlov from Vienna, if you have your own car or you have hired a car it will take approximately two hours and 45 minutes or you can take an  organized group tour . 

These tours are a full day and allow you to spend time exploring the town, whilst also taking some guided tours around Cesky Krumlov.

Recommended by Fiona from Travelling Thirties

Make it a longer trip by spending the night at Hotel Ruze !

A really recommended place for an unforgettable day trip from Vienna is the charming town of Eisenstadt. It’s the political and cultural center of Burgenland and is located in the area of Lake Neusiedlersee. On a visit, you will love the mix of a long history and tradition, cultural events, and the modern outlook.

In fact, there is a lot of romantic things to see in the city center like the pedestrian zone, the palace park, and the parliament building. The whole inner city is stuffed with lovely details and many highlights for taking pictures1

The main attraction in Eisenstadt and a must-see on any day trip from Vienna is the Esterházy Palace. It dates to a fortified 13th-century Gothic castle.

For more than 40 years, the composer Joseph Haydn was inspired by Esterházy Palace’s special atmosphere to create exceptional music to accompany historic events. The Haydn Room, named after the composer, is still one of the world’s best – acoustically – and loveliest concert halls.

The beautiful palace grounds are also lovely. On a walk, you will enjoy the lovely botanic garden, a small lake, and even a public pool area. In any case, don`t miss the Gloriette (the Esterházys’ former hunting lodge), Haydn’s House, and Haydn’s church, which contains Haydn’s mausoleum and the Stations of the Cross are all worth visiting too.

For getting from Eisenstadt to Vienna you can either take the car, the bus or the train. This will take you only 45 minutes to 1 hour!

Recommended by Martina from  PlacesofJuma

Want to stay longer? Book a night at Hotel-Restaurant OHR.

If you are a lover of beautiful architecture, enjoy getting lost in the labyrinth of Old Town, soaking in the hip culture of a charming university town, then Graz is the place you must visit from Vienna. The second-largest city and capital of the Styria province, Graz offers an incredible mix of historical sites, vibrant café and restaurant scene, and charming cultural city center to explore.

The City of Graz Historic Centre, including the famous Schloss Eggenberg, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its beautiful blend of different architectural styles through the ages. The fusion of Renaissance, Gothic and Baroque architecture gave Graz the coveted title of “the best-preserved city center of Central Europe”! The entire city is filled with such beautiful details all around that walking around Graz feels like meandering through a museum.

The best way to reach Graz from Vienna is either by bus or train. The journey takes 2.5-3 hours with frequent services throughout the day. Once in Graz, most of the places of interest are walkable and hence makes exploration very easy. One can also take tram rides that connect the city very well. T

he best place to start sightseeing is from Hauptplatz (Main Square) which is located in the heart of the Old town. Next to it, Herrengasse is the shopping street which sets the mood vibrant and lively.

No visit to Graz is complete without walking around the Schlossberg and up to its Clock Tower. 

Climb the Clock Tower around sunset to witness the mesmerizing panoramic views of Graz against the setting sun. There are a plethora of good restaurants and it’s heavenly even for vegan foodies. However you wish to spend the time, this youthful and lively Graz is bound to impress you with its magical charm.

Recommended by Sunetra from Globetrotting SU

Want to stay longer? Spend the night at Grand Hotel Wiesler.

Hallstatt  is a hidden gem in Austria and reminds you of a fairytale perfectly situated in front of a lake with swans swimming peacefully within. It is a great day trip from Vienna and a must-see destination. It was named a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1997 and you will understand why when you visit and see the picturesque village.

You only need a few hours to explore the town – most visitors do just that and spend the night in either Vienna or Salzburg . Be sure to take the funicular to the SkyWalk and witness the village from atop. Market Square is the center of the town and you will find unique architecture, restaurants, cafes, hotels, and souvenir shops.

Nearby, you can stop for cream strudel at Cafe Derbl – this is a typical dish of the area. Next, go to the picture-postcard spot is located at Gosaumühlstraße 67. This is where you will find the swans on the lake and it will make you fall in love with visiting this fairytale town.

If time allows, visit the Hallstatt Salt Mine, an important location for mining in the region as well as Museum Hallstatt which showcases the special archaeological finds of Hallstatt.

To get to Hallstatt, you can either drive or take public transport. If you drive there, it takes 3 hours (179 miles or 288 km). Alternatively, you may take the Austrian Railway which also takes a little over 3 hours to complete the journey.

Recommended by Jackie Rezk from Jou Jou Travels 

Stay longer by booking a night at Heritage Hotel Hallstatt.

Krems an der Donau

Krems an der Donau is the perfect destination for a day trip from Vienna for anyone looking to experience Austrian history and scenery without spending hours traveling.

There is a direct and convenient local train connection from Wien Spittelau to Krems, which takes about an hour. During the ride, you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the beautiful scenery as the train winds along the Danube river.

Krems an der Donau, nicknamed “Krems”, is a town in the Wachau region of in Lower-Austria. It is over 1000 years old with a Medieval town center and is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site

You enter the Medieval part of Krems through the Steiner Tor. Walking through the 15th-century gate feels like stepping back in time. You are immediately welcomed by a cozy main street. The side streets hide a wealth of picturesque corners and squares, as well as monuments like the St. Veit Church and Gozzoburg.

The Stein neighborhood is also particularly beautiful and charming. Art lovers should check out the brand new Landesgalerie Niederösterreich.

Krems lies in the most important wine region of Austria. So be sure to try a few local wines at a tavern or visit one of the many wineries around the city. The local cuisine is rustic and seasonal, perfect for foodies that would like to dive into Austrian cuisine .

If you cannot get enough of Medieval towns, there are plenty of additional  pretty towns along the Danube Valley  to explore. I recommend adding Dürnstein to your day trip to Krems an der Donau.

Recommended by Sophie from Just Heading Out

Spend the night at Gasthof Klinglhuber if you want to make the trip longer!

Lake Balaton

Lake Balaton is the biggest lake in central Europe. It’s one of the most visited places in Hungary and it’s known more as the summer vacation hotspot for local Hungarians and close-by nations.

Around Balaton Lake are a variety of things to do. Firstly there are countless lakeshore resorts for sunbaths and leisure. Also, there are several hiking trails on the volcanic Bakony Mountains, vineyards for wine tasting, and many festivals throughout the summer.

For a day trip from Vienna, it’s recommended to explore Lake Balaton’s east shore. Firstly, set sights on the Tihany peninsula. It’s the most beautiful area in Balaton. From there you can explore the charming town of Tihany with a beautiful castle, cottage houses, and many authentic local shops. From Tihany Castle’s viewpoint, you can also admire Lake Balaton’s views.

Another remarkable place on the east shore of Lake Balaton is Badacsony. There you have a variety of options to spend a day. Visitors can hike on volcanic Badacsony hill, where you have the best views over Lake Balaton and the surrounding Bakony Mountains. Also, there are different vineyards with farms to taste local wine production. Small restaurants to taste local street food langos. For history enthusiasts, close-by is also well-maintained Szigliget Castle.

Lake Balaton is from Vienna about 210 km away. The best way to get there is by car and it takes about 2 hours and 45 minutes. Unfortunately, there aren’t any direct public transportation options and it takes a bit longer to reach there than by car. If still going there by public transport, then look for connections with a layover in Györ. 

Recommended by Erki from Genem Travels

Want to stay longer? Spend the night at Mala Garden Design Hotel.

Moravian Karst Complex

The Moravian complex is the largest karst area in Central Europe. In order to get there from Vienna, one has to head to the north, cross the border with Czechia and get to Brno. From Brno, there is only around 30km left to the complex.

The total distance is around 180 km and can be done in under 2 hours and a half each way. Public transport is available but much slower. At the entrance, there’s a large parking area and a tourist information center.

Most of the tourists that get to the Moravian karst complex want to  visit Punkva Cave , because the underground tour is partially done by boat. This being said, keep in mind that tickets sell out quickly and it’s advisable to book your tour online in advance.

The cavern is not interesting only due to the river and the beautiful karst formations inside, but also because it reaches the base of the Macocha Abyss. The guide knows many stories linked to it. After that, the visitors are loaded on boats. They are taken through spacious halls and narrow tunnels until the stream finally finds its way out of the cave.

There are more than 1000 caverns in the complex. However, only 4 more are open to the public (Sloupsko-Šošůvské, Kateřinská, Balcarka and Výpustek). Kateřinská Caves is the largest subterranean space in the complex and is often used as a concert venue due to its great acoustics.

However, all of them are much less crowded than Punkva and each is interesting in its own way.

Recommended by Raluca from Travel With A Spin

Make it a longer trip by spending the night at Hotel Kras!

Thayatal National Park

The Nationalpark Thayatal is a great day trip out into the countryside from Vienna to explore the peaceful woodland along the border with the Czech Republic.

The Thaya Valley National Park is around a 90-minute drive from the capital city in the Waldviertel region of Lower Austria just outside the town of Hardegg.

Hardegg, the smallest town in Austria, offers a visit to the imposing castle above the settlement as well as being the starting point for hikes along the Thaya river and into the National Park. It is also the location for the pedestrian border crossing into the Czech National Park Podyjí, which covers the northern side of the river. (There is an interesting museum about the opening of the border and the fall of the Iron Curtain in the building just over the bridge.)

The National Park headquarters on the Austrian side is located on the road just before the descent to Hardegg. Visitors can also view the two European wildcats Frieda and Carlo in their living quarters nearby and set off on the six kilometers of the ‘Wildcat Trail’ from the building.

The European wildcat was once thought to be extinct in Austria, but the shy nocturnal mammals were reintroduced to the National Park 20 years ago. The shaded river is also a favorite breeding spot for black storks, who can sometimes be spotted fishing in the waters in the early morning.

There are a variety of hiking trails along the banks and up to scenic viewpoints over the forested course of the meandering river.

The car journey to the National Park is quite straightforward with the road through Stockerau and Hollabrunn. Those wanting to use public transport are best advised to take the train to Retz and then the public bus to the National Park headquarters or Hardegg.

Recommended by Steve from Austria Direct

Make it a longer trip by staying in the area at Hotel Althof Retz.

Vienna Woods  

With so many wonderful things to  see and do in Vienna , it would probably take at least a week to experience all the music, art, history, and culture of the Capital city of Austria. Having said that, take a chance to explore something else a little bit further to the city’s outskirts, like Vienna Woods. Located just about 50 kilometers away from Vienna’s city center, Vienna Woods is a place known for its wine gardens, vineyards, walking trails, and picturesque villages.   

There are a number of trains and bus routes that take travelers to Vienna Woods within an hour; To make a full day out of the city, I suggest renting a car so you can get around town and explore the area at your own pace. 

Start your day with a wine tour in a vineyard and have a sip of some world-class liquor, and if you want to do something more active, go kayaking on the Danube or take a scenic walk through the magnificent historic forest, which was a hunting ground of Viennese royalty.

Take it slow and have a walk in the town center after lunch. Vienna Woods has no lack of historic sites including the Mayerling hunting lodge and Heiligenkreuz Abbey, which is one of the oldest Cistercian monasteries in the world. 

Recommended by Knycx Journeying  

Wachau Valley

Just an hour out of the city by train,  visiting the Wachau Valley  is a great option for a day trip from Vienna. Framed by hills and situated on the banks of the Danube, the Wachau Valley is a UNESCO world heritage, famous for its wine, castles, and charming towns.

Once you’ve arrived in either Melk or Krems (there are direct trains from Vienna), spend the day exploring the valley, either by bike, car, or bus. With all of the wineries in the region, cycling is an easy option, with some day tours available from Vienna.

If you like wine, spend the day visiting the terraced vineyards, renowned for their dry white wines made from Riesling and Grüner Veltliner grapes. Between the wineries, marvel at the wonderful scenery, and pick your favorite winery for lunch.

If you’re more interested in the history and culture of the area (or spending the entire day tasting wine isn’t that appealing), visit some of the towns on the banks of the Danube.

Melk and Dürnstein are probably the prettiest, with charming town centers, Baroque architecture, and a fortress and abbey respectively, both of which are well worth exploring. The castle in Dürnstein was once the prison of King Richard, the Lionheart, of England so is a must for those interested in history – or those who want to see the beautiful views from the fortress up on the hill.

If you’re traveling by bus or car, you may choose to stop in some of the smaller medieval towns (Spitz is also charming with vineyards close by) or wineries. And, if you want to see the valley from a different perspective, take the ferry between Krems and Melk – a much more affordable option than a river cruise, with lovely views.

Recommended by Roxanne from Faraway Worlds

Check out our Vienna vlog!

Travel to Austria

Are you planning a trip to Austria? You’re in luck! We have more great Austria travel posts to help ease your stress. Check them out below!

• Austria Bucket List: 23 Best Things to do in Austria
• 3 Days in Vienna: The Perfect Vienna 3 Day Itinerary
• 11 Best Places to Visit in Austria

9 Best Salzburg Day Trips

• Austrian Food In Vienna: 11 Best Local Dishes & Where to Eat Them
• How to Spend One Day in Vienna, Austria

KP is the head blogger and founder behind Volumes & Voyages. After studying abroad in Dublin for a semester, KP got bitten by the travel bug. Now, she writes articles to help other travelers in between trips where she chases her wanderlust. KP has lived in many different places, including Boston MA, Denver CO, Las Vegas NV, southern VT, and Dublin IE.

Similar Posts

13 Famous Streets in Vienna You Have to See in Your Lifetime

11 Best Places to Visit in Austria According to Travel Bloggers + Map

12 Best Landmarks in Austria According to Travel Bloggers + Map

15 Best Vienna Instagram Spots for the Perfect Photo

Where to Get the Best Schnitzel in Vienna

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Privacy Overview

15 Best Day Trips from Vienna, Austria

• 1.5K shares

It’s easy to get caught up in the fancy palaces and coffee house cakes of Vienna.  I certainly did.  But you should also know that there are many great options for day trips from Vienna.

The city is a great base for exploring nearby countryside scenery and centuries-old villages and cities.

I’ll be up front with you.  I haven’t done all of these Vienna day trips.  I asked travel experts to share the best options based on their personal experiences.

To help you decide which ones are right for you, here’s a list of the top day trips from Vienna based on their recommendations (and mine).  It includes tips on things to do in each place and how to get there.

You may also like: 

6 Terrific Ways to See the Lipizzaner Stallions of Vienna in Real Life and Vienna Christmas Markets – Top Tips for Your Visit

Day trips within about one hour from Vienna

Melk Abbey, Austria

By Haley of Haley Blackall Travel

Nestled in the heart of Lower Austria, the charming town of Melk is a must-visit day trip from Vienna, especially for its crown jewel: Melk Abbey. A baroque masterpiece perched atop a rocky outcrop, overlooking the Danube River, the abbey is not just a feast for the eyes.

The library within Melk Abbey is an invaluable home of ancient manuscripts, a significant draw for those interested in historical texts.

If you’re a design lover, don’t miss the architecturally significant Marble Hall, adorned in Rococo style and the Abbey Church with its stunning frescoes and high altar. For panoramic views, soak in the sights from the abbey’s terrace.

Beyond the abbey, the town of Melk is worth a wander. Its cobblestone streets, especially around Rathausplatz, the main square, lead to local cafes and shops that offer a genuine taste of Lower Austrian culture.

And, if you’re up for some scenic views, take a boat ride along the Danube.

To go from Vienna to Melk:

Train : Hop on a direct train from Vienna’s Hauptbahnhof (main station), an 8-minute taxi (or 15-minute subway) from the best area to stay in Vienna , Innere Stadt. The train ride takes about an hour.

Tour:  Wachau, Melk Abbey, and Danube Valleys Tour (includes romantic boat trip on the Danube in summer)

Wachau Valley, Austria

By Kamila Napora of Kami and the Rest of the World

The Wachau Valley, Austria

Wachau Valley is one of the most beautiful places in Austria.

This picturesque area along the Danube River is only 90 km west of Vienna, between Krems and Melk.  It’s famous for its stunning landscapes, vineyards, and apricot orchards scattered along the riverside, charming medieval towns, and interesting historical sites.

When you visit, you’ll be able to enjoy a diversity of attractions as well as the laid-back vibe of the place.

To admire the most beautiful views of the Wachau Valley, go on the boat tour on the Danube – there are scheduled departures that can take you from one town to another.  This place is so special that in 2000, the “Wachau Cultural Landscape” became a UNESCO World Heritage Site.as another proof of what a valuable place this is.

To go from Vienna to the Wachau Valley:

Tip:   The easiest way to visit Wachau Valley from Vienna is by car or with a tour, so you can see most of the attractions.

Train: You can take the direct train from the Franz-Josefs-Bahnhof in Vienna to Krems (the journey takes around one hour) and then explore the region by bike/boat/train/bus. Then you can return by train from Melk directly to Vienna.

Bratislava, Slovakia

By Roxanne de Bruyn of Faraway Worlds

Just an hour away from Vienna, you’ll find Bratislava , the capital city of Slovakia. A relatively small city, Bratislava makes a delightful contrast to Vienna with a relaxed and charming Old Town.  It’s easy to explore on a day trip from Vienna to Bratislava.

Spend your time wandering through the narrow lanes of the Old Town, lined with historical buildings.  You’ll see quirky statues and interesting street art as you make your way around the city.  Visit Bratislava Castle for panoramic views of the city and the Danube River, and stop at the beautiful Blue Church to admire its architecture (and colour).

For lunch, try some traditional Slovak cuisine – bryndzové halušky (potato dumplings with cheese and bacon) is a favourite and Slovakia’s national dish.

If you have more time, venture beyond the old town to see contemporary art at Nedbalka Gallery and honour the past at the Slavín Memorial.

To go from Vienna to Bratislava:

Train :  Traveling between Vienna and Bratislava is easy, with regular train routes available.  Get train tickets from Vienna to Bratislava .

Tour:   From Vienna: Bratislava City Tour (includes coffee and cake)

Vienna Woods

Hinterbrühl lake grotto in the Vienna Woods

Looking for a nature getaway from Vienna?  You don’t have to go far.

The Vienna Woods (Wienerwald) is large forested area near Vienna.  It’s perfect for hiking or cycling, strolling through picturesque towns and having a sip or two in the vineyards.  It’s a designated UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and even inspired a waltz by Johann Strauss.

Highlights include the  Heiligenkreuz Abbey — Europe’s largest Cistercian abbey.  This 900-year-old monastery is famous for its Gregorian Chant which once led the Billboard charts in the U.S.

The Hinterbrühl lake grotto is another must-see as part of a day tour from Vienna.  It’s the largest underground lake in Europe, discovered during a mining operation.  During World War II, the water was pumped out so it could serve as an underground aircraft factory.  Now, you can glide through the grotto on a boat.  Be sure to take warm clothes if you go.

To go from Vienna to the Vienna Woods:

Tip: The best way to explore the Vienna Woods is by car or on a tour.

Tour:  From Vienna: Vienna Woods and Seegrotte Half-Day Tour

Gyor, Hungary

By Richard Meek of RJOnTour

Gyor is a lovely city which is where 4 rivers meet, including the River Danube. The city has a beautiful historic centre with some interesting things to see.  Gyor’s history dates back to the 1th century when the Romans occupied the area – – you can learn more in the museums of Gyor.

There is a lot of baroque architecture throughout the old town area. This includes some pleasant churches and a castle. As you step off the train, you’ll see the splendid baroque town hall.

If you visit during the summer, don’t miss the thermal pool and water park. .

Walks along the river are lovely. There are some restaurants on the banks, including a floating restaurant. For a fantastic view of the city and nearby countryside, the Bishops Tower is wonderful.  Overall, there are lots of things to do in Gyor , a beautiful city with a laid-back vibe.

To go from Vienna to Gyor:

Schloss Esterhazy and Eisenstadt, Austria

By Paul D’Souza of Paulmarina

Haydn Hall in the Esterhazy Palace

The Esterhazy Palace in Eisenstadt is one of the most dazzling palaces and a must-see for all culture lovers. Rich baroque interiors with intricate frescoes and stucco work make every room worthwhile a visit.

The Haydn Hall, named after the legendary composer, Joseph Haydn, who was the Kapellmeister of the Esterhazy family, is a dazzling marvel and the acoustics have been perfected. Special tickets to musical events, that take place in the Haydn hall in the Esterhazy palace, are highly sought after.

The Haydn house, wine cellars and gardens are the highlight of a visit to the grand palace. On a trip, you’ll notice that the palace dominates the area as it sits right in the center of Eisenstadt, which is a small city of the Burgenland region.

To go from Vienna to Eisenstadt:

Car:   It takes an hour to get to Eisenstadt by car. There’s parking on the palace premises,  priced at €5 for 4 hours.

Train: From Vienna, take a 70-minute-long regional train ride to Eisenstadt.

Vienna day trips within one to three hours away

Devin Castle, Slovakia

By Alice Jasper Smith from Adventures of Alice

Devin Castle is a fantastic day trip from Vienna , especially if you love history.

This crumbling castle in Slovakia is a pretty well-preserved medieval fortress perched on a hill overlooking the place where the Danube and Morava rivers meet. The views are gorgeous and you can easily spend a whole day exploring the grounds.

Once you’re at the castle, you can climb the turrets, step down into the cellars, and explore the old courtyards. The castle ruins are spread over a large area. You can explore the remnants of medieval walls, towers, and fortifications. The views of the surrounding landscape from the castle are stunning and there is also a small museum containing archaeological finds from the castle.

Don’t forget to climb the Maiden Tower for panoramic views of the Danube River and the Austrian and Slovakian landscapes.

To go from Vienna to Devin Castle:

Tip: To get to Devin Castle from Vienna, you can either take the train to Bratislava , which will take about an hour and then get a taxi to Devin, which will take an additional 20 minutes.  A taxi straight from Vienna will take an hour, but it’s expensive.

Brno, Czech Republic

By Maria & Katerina of It’s All Trip To Me

The second-largest city in the Czech Republic, Brno is an authentic, fascinating city with plenty to offer to those who decide to visit it on a day trip from Vienna.

Without a doubt, the best place to start your day trip in Brno is the Old Town, where you can explore the city’s diverse architecture with Functionalist, Art Nouveau and Baroque buildings creating a unique urban landscape.

Apart from what lies on the surface though, Brno hides a separate city in its depths, the so-called Brno Underground. Some of the best places to appreciate the magic of Brno Underground are the Brno Ossuary, the second-largest in Europe, and 10-Z Bunker, a WW2 air-raid shelter turned into a fascinating museum.

Before heading back to Vienna, make sure you sample the excellent South Moravian wine at one of Brno’s cozy wine bars.

To go from Vienna to Brno:

Train: Brno is very easy to get to by train from Vienna, as the city is a stop on the railway line that connects Vienna to Prague. The train ride from Vienna to Brno lasts one hour and a half.  Get train tickets here.

  Salzburg, Austria

Salzburg, Austria

If you watch the Sound of Music every year like I do, you’ll definitely want to take a day trip from Vienna to Salzburg .

On a day tour to Salzburg, you’ll visit the movie locations and get the behind-the-scenes stories.  There are also stops in the stunning Austrian Lakes region and the cute mountain village of St. Gilgen.

Of course, there’s more to Salzburg than a movie.  This is where Mozart is from.  You can visit his birthplace and the cathedral where he played for church services.  Be sure to try some Mozartkugel, otherwise known as “Mozart balls” (really!).  They are tasty chocolates, filled with marzipan and pistachio.

To go from Vienna to Salzburg :

Train : The fast train from Vienna to Salzburg takes 2 hours 30 minutes.  Get train tickets here .

Tour :  Salzburg and the lakes region from Vienna (includes Vienna Woods and Melk Abbey) .  A tour is the best way to see Salzburg and the lakes region.

Graz, Austria

By Lavina D’Souza of Continent Hop

Graz is a beautiful mix of both the modern and traditional.  It boasts historic courtyards, beautiful red rooftops and a large variety of pubs, restaurants, and great nightlife.

The Old Town of Graz is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most beautiful cities in Austria.  Like the rest of Austria, Graz has beautiful Christmas markets. Consider an Austria itinerary 5 days  to explore this charming country.

Take the Schlossberg cable car to see Graz’s most famous view. You can also explore the colourful and unique buildings, especially around th Hauptplatz, the town square.  Be sure to try delicious Austrian meals from various food trucks.

Murinsel is an interesting combination of an island and a bridge and has a cafe in the middle of it.  Observe the beautiful street art and visit the local bars for a drink or two to enjoy the hip culture here.

To go from Vienna to Graz:

Train:   Graz is around two and a half hours from Vienna by train.  Get train tickets from Vienna to Graz .

Tip :  You can fly from Vienna to Graz in 35 minutes. Take a cab or the bus to the town centre, which is around 9 kilometres away.

Budapest. Hungary

By Tina from Veganderlust

Hungary’s Parliament in Budapest

Budapest is a fantastic day trip from Vienna. The two capital cities have a lot in common, including their history in the Austrian-Hungarian Empire, stunning architecture, and a love for the traditional Hungarian dish, goulash.

The most famous attraction in Budapest is the Hungarian Parliament Building, one of the most beautiful in the world.

Also, don’t miss out on having a drink in one of the ruin bars while you’re there.  These trendy pubs were built in half-abandoned buildings, and are popular among both locals and tourists.

From breathtaking architecture to hip bars and delicious food, Budapest has it all.  So, pack your day bag and set off for an unforgettable journey because, without a doubt, Budapest is worth a visit.

To go from Vienna to Budapest

Train : You can reach Budapest from Vienna by train in 2.5 hours one way.  Get train tickets here .

Tour:   Budapest Day Trip from Vienna

Day trips from Vienna over 3 hours away

Hallstatt, Austria

By Andreea Ioana of Andoreia Travels the World

Nestled in the Austrian Alps, the tiny lakeside town of Hallstatt is famous for its beautiful scenery and picturesque wooden houses. As it’s located around 3 hours away from Austria’s capital city, many tourists choose to visit Hallstatt from Vienna as a day trip .

Upon arriving, walking around the town is a must since every turn you take you’ll encounter a new, lovely view. Make sure you don’t miss the postcard viewpoint which is marked Aussichtspunkt Hallstatt on Google Maps.

For those interested in history, the Hallstatt salt mine, which is one of the oldest in the world, provides a glimpse into the town’s past, as its wealth was once built upon its salt production. It can be easily reached by using the funicular.

Lastly, the Hallstatt Skywalk (located right next to the mine) offers a panoramic view from above of the town and its surroundings, making it the perfect spot for taking photos.  

To go from Vienna to Hallstatt:

Tip: To visit Hallstatt from Vienna you’ll either need to rent a car or take a train. If you opt for public transportation, know that you’ll arrive on the other side of the lake, so you’ll need to take the ferry or a local bus to Hallstatt.

Train:  Get train tickets from Vienna to Hallstatt (3 hours).

Tour:  Vienna to Hallstatt & Alpine Peaks Day Trip with Skywalk Lift

Český Krumlov, Czech Republic

By David Angel of Delve into Europe

Český Krumlov is one of the most beautiful small towns in Europe. It’s a gorgeous little country town on the river Vltava, beneath a mighty Bohemian Castle.

The narrow cobbled streets are lined with medieval, Renaissance and Baroque townhouses, almost like a time capsule. It’s always been on the edge of major events in history, which is why it’s so perfectly preserved.  It’s also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The two main things to do are exploring the Old Town and walking up to the Castle. You can walk all the way through the castle precincts for free – you only need to pay to join one of the mandatory guided tours of the rooms inside, or the unique Baroque Theatre.

There are enough things to do in Cesky Krumlov to keep you there for two or three days, but with limited time I’d urge you to seek out the Museum Fotoatelier Seidel. It’s the home and studio of the town’s main photographer in the early 20 th century, and like the rest of the town, exquisitely preserved.  

To go from Vienna to Český Krumlov:

Tip:   It’s faster to take a tour or to drive the 128-miles (206 km) from Vienna to Český Krumlov (about 2.5 hours).

Train:   You can get there by train, with a change at Linz or Ceske Budejovice. From either of these, you can then change for another train or bus. Count on up to 4 hours, sometimes more, each way if traveling by public transport.

Tour: Český Krumlov Small-Group Day Trip from Vienna

Prague, Czech Republic

By Mal of Raw Mal Roams

Old Town Square in Prague, Czech Republic

While seeing everything Prague has to offer in one day is impossible, you can still get a good taste of its captivating atmosphere and experience some of its most iconic attractions.

Begin your day with a visit to Prague’s Castle, located on the western bank of the Vltava River and home to the 14th-century Gothic masterpiece – St. Vitus Cathedral.

Next stroll across the iconic Charles Bridge, then explore the historic Old Town Square.  There, you can climb the City Hall tower for panoramic views and watch the famous Astronomical Clock show.

Make sure to sample Czech specialties like chimney cake and fried cheese. For a breathtaking city scape, head to Hotel U Prince’s rooftop terrace for a drink and a fantastic photo op.

There are many fantastic boutique hotels in Prague , such as The Julius Prague, if you choose to stay overnight.

To go from Vienna to Prague :

Train:  Take a direct train from Vienna’s Hauptbahnhof (central train station) to Prague’s main station, Wilsonova. The journey typically takes around 4 to 5 hours, and there are multiple connections per day. Get train tickets here .

Ljubljana, Slovenia

By Cosette from KarsTravels .

Ljubljana is the beautiful capital of Slovenia, in the western part of the country. The city is easy to explore on foot during an afternoon in Ljubljana , as part of a day trip from Vienna.

Walking around Ljubljana is a feast for the eyes, with its colourful facades from the Jugendstil, Baroque and Classical periods.  Outside the city centre, the buildings are from the Communist period and less colourful.  Not to be missed on a tour through the city is Tromostovje, a triple bridge, that’s beautifully adorned.

A highlight of the city is Ljubljanski Grad.  The large castle, dating from the Middle Ages, towers above the city.  The castle is reachable by car, by furnicular and on foot. The furnicular is a glass cogwheel that goes up from the city centre to the castle. During the ride you’ll have splendid views of Ljubljana. The castle houses the Slovenian Archeological Museum, a virtual castle, 2 restaurants and a tower that you can climb.  

To go from Vienna to Ljubljana

By car:  By car it’s about 4 hours (384 Kilometers) on the E59/A2 and E57, both are toll roads.

Train:   You can either take a direct train early in the morning or with a transfer in Villach, both ways taking about 6 hours.  Get train tickets to Ljubljana here.

Best Vienna day trips by map:

There you have it!  I hope these recommendations help you choose the Vienna day trip that’s right for you.

More information:

Tourism Information :  Vienna Tourist Board

Car rental :  Compare prices at Auto Europe

Where to Stay in Vienna :  Get the best deals on hotels in Vienna here .

Suggested reading : Rick Steves Pocket Vienna , Rick Steves Central Europe

Avoid data roaming fees :  I use an aloSIM eSIM (a digital SIM card) to stay connected when I travel.  Get 5% off your first order with the promo code:  TRAVELBLISSNOW.

6 Terrific Ways to See the Lipizzaner Stallions of Vienna in Real Life

Vienna Christmas Markets – Top Tips for Your Visit

Vienna to Salzburg Day Trip – The Sound of Music, Mozart and More

Leave a Reply Cancel comment reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Sign me up for the monthly Travel Bliss Now newsletter!

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

• Privacy Overview
• Strictly Necessary Cookies

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.

If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.

Prague Private Full Day Trip From Vienna

Exploring the enchanting city of Prague from Vienna has never been easier. This private full-day trip promises an unforgettable adventure, taking travelers on a journey through the city’s iconic landmarks . With a licensed local expert as your guide, you’ll uncover the rich history and breathtaking beauty that make Prague a must-visit destination. From the grandeur of Prague Castle to the charming Old Town Square , this tour offers a seamless and customizable experience, catering to various preferences and needs. Whether you’re seeking an immersive cultural adventure or simply want to marvel at the city’s architectural wonders, this private excursion is sure to leave you captivated and eager to…

• Offers a private full-day trip from Vienna to Prague, covering major landmarks like Prague Castle, Charles Bridge, and Old Town Square.
• Priced at $1,996.45 for up to 8 participants, with hotel pickup, drop-off, and an English-speaking driver included.
• Provides a 3-hour guided city tour by a licensed local expert, followed by 1.5 hours of independent exploration.
• Customizable itinerary and accessibility options, with wheelchair-friendly access and multilingual guide options.
• Requires a valid passport or ID card for entry into the Czech Republic, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

More tours and experiences nearby.

• Prague Foodie Tour
• Best of Prague Walking Tour and Cruise With Authentic Czech Lunch
• 3-hour Complete Prague Bike Tour
• Shooting Range Prague – RANGER Prague

Tour Overview

This private full-day trip from Vienna to Prague offers travelers the opportunity to explore the historic city of Prague at their own pace.

Priced at $1,996.45 per group (up to 8 participants), the tour lasts 12 hours and includes hotel pickup and drop-off, an English-speaking driver, and a guided city tour by a licensed local expert.

Key highlights of the tour include Prague Castle, Charles Bridge, and the Old Town Square. Guests will have approximately 1.5 hours of free time for independent exploration.

The tour is wheelchair accessible , and the guide is available in multiple languages. Travelers should bring their passport or ID card and check availability before booking.

Itinerary Details

The tour commences with a pickup from the traveler’s accommodation in Vienna.

The journey to Prague takes approximately 3 hours and 45 minutes.

Once in the Czech capital, the group embarks on a 3-hour guided city tour , exploring key landmarks like the iconic Prague Castle, the picturesque Charles Bridge, and the vibrant Old Town Square.

After the guided portion, travelers are granted approximately 1.5 hours of free time to wander and discover Prague independently.

The tour itinerary is flexible, allowing the experience to be customized to suit the group’s interests.

At the end of the day, the group is returned to their starting point in Vienna.

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off , an English-speaking driver, and a guided tour by a licensed local expert.

Food and drinks aren’t included, but guests can explore Prague’s culinary delights on their own during the free time. Gratuities and entry fees are also covered, so there are no hidden costs.

The tour is wheelchair accessible , and the itinerary can be customized to suit individual interests.

Live tour guides are available in English, German, French, and Arabic, ensuring a comfortable and informative experience for all participants.

Accessibility and Customization

The tour is wheelchair accessible , allowing guests with mobility challenges to fully participate in the experience.

Tour organizers can also customize the itinerary to suit individual interests and needs:

• Guests can request a private tour guide who speaks their preferred language, including English, German, French, and Arabic.
• The tour can be adjusted to focus on specific sites or activities that align with the group’s preferences.
• Modifications can be made to accommodate dietary restrictions or special requests.
• Flexibility is offered to accommodate changes in start times or group size.

Preparation and Important Information

Preparing for the Prague Private Day Trip from Vienna is straightforward.

Travelers should remember to bring their passport or ID card , as it’s required for entry into the Czech Republic. The tour is wheelchair accessible , making it an inclusive option for all.

Participants can customize the tour to suit their interests, with the guidance of a licensed local expert who’s available in multiple languages.

Booking the tour is easy – simply check availability for starting times and select the desired date and number of participants.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, travelers can plan their trip with confidence.

Pickup and Drop-off

For the Prague Private Day Trip from Vienna, travelers are picked up directly from their accommodation in Vienna. This convenient service ensures a seamless start to the journey.

The driver, an English-speaking professional, will greet your and handle their luggage, allowing them to sit back and relax as they embark on the approximately 3 hour 45 minute drive to Prague.

At the end of the tour, the driver will return your to their original pickup location in Vienna, providing them with a stress-free door-to-door experience .

The tour’s flexibility includes :

• Wheelchair accessibility
• Customization to suit individual interests
• Live tour guides available in multiple languages

Travel Time and Duration

During the Prague Private Day Trip from Vienna, the travel time to the Czech capital is approximately 3 hours and 45 minutes .

The total duration of the tour is 12 hours , allowing ample time to explore Prague’s highlights. Upon arrival, guests will enjoy a 3-hour guided city tour, covering key sites like Prague Castle, Charles Bridge, and the Old Town Square.

Afterward, there’s around 1.5 hours of free time for independent exploration. With a convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as an English-speaking driver , this private tour offers a seamless and immersive experience for visitors looking to discover the beauty of Prague from Vienna.

Site Highlights

The Prague Private Day Trip from Vienna showcases the city’s most iconic landmarks and landmarks. The guided tour includes visits to the stunning Prague Castle, the historic Charles Bridge, and the vibrant Old Town Square.

Explore the impressive Prague Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site that has been the seat of power for centuries.

Cross the iconic Charles Bridge, lined with baroque statues and offering breathtaking views of the city.

Wander through the picturesque Old Town Square, home to the famous Astronomical Clock and surrounded by charming architecture.

After the guided tour, enjoy approximately 1.5 hours of free time to further explore Prague at your own pace.

Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we think you'll like.

• Prague Ghosts and Legends of Old Town Walking Tour
• Bohemian and Saxon Switzerland National Park Day Trip From Prague – Best Reviews
• Prague Old Town: Private Tour
• Pubs of Prague Historic Tour With Drinks Included
• Communism and Bunker Walking Tour in Prague
• Grand City Tour on Scrooser in Prague

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Customize the Stops During the Tour?

Yes, the tour can be customized to suit your interests. The itinerary is flexible, and you can work with the tour provider to adjust the key sites visited during the guided portion of the tour.

Is There a Discount for Children or Seniors?

The tour offers discounts for children and seniors, though the specific pricing details are not provided. Customers should inquire about any available discounts when booking the tour to get the best deal.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Participants can bring their own food and drinks on the tour, but meals are not included in the tour price. The tour focuses on providing transportation, guiding, and sightseeing rather than catering services.

How Much Free Time Is Allotted for Independent Exploration?

The tour provides approximately 1.5 hours of free time for independent exploration in Prague. This allows participants to wander at their own pace and discover the city beyond the guided sightseeing activities.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

According to the details provided, the tour includes approximately 1.5 hours of free time for independent exploration in Prague. There doesn’t appear to be an option to extend the tour duration beyond the 12-hour itinerary.

Not for you? Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby

• Prague: Private 2-Hour Trike Live Guided Tour
• Prague: Guided Fat Tire E-Scooter or E-Bike Tour
• Prague: Old Town Guided Walking Tour and City Boat Ride
• Open Bar for 1 Hour & Ping Pong or Shuffleboard Game
• Prague Tour of Pinkas, Klausen, Maze and Spanish Synagogues
• Prague: Bike Rental in the City
• Prague: 3-Hour Evening River Cruise With Dinner
• Prague 1.5-Hour Compact City Center Running Tour
• From Prague: Private Day Trip to Pilsner Urquell Brewery
• Midday Concert at Lobkowicz Palace
• Prague: Jewish Quarter History and Culinary Experience Tour
• Prague: The Nutcracker Ballet Tickets
• Private Transfer From Prague to Munich
• Guided Tour of Prague
• Pragues Old Town Private Guided Tour With Boat Cruise

The Prague private full-day trip from Vienna offers an enchanting experience for up to 8 participants. With a guided city tour , free time to explore, and customizable options, this 12-hour journey showcases the iconic landmarks of Prague. Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, or simply soaking in the beauty, this tour provides a memorable adventure tailored to your needs.

Similar Posts

Magic Mangrove Paddle in Beef Island Lagoon

Guided Killarney National Park Walking Tour

Charcuterie and Wine Boat Tour Around Marina Del Rey Harbor

Private Central Park Bike Tour and Luxurious Picnic

Peter Pan Namur: Scavenger Hunt for Kids (8-12)

Kaikoura: 1-Hour Whale Watching Helicopter Tour

You are using an outdated browser. Upgrade your browser today or install Google Chrome Frame to better experience this site.

Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever in Mexico

Key points .

• There have been reports of Rocky Mountain spotted fever (RMSF) in people traveling to the United States from Tecate, in the state of Baja California, Mexico.
• RMSF has been found in urban areas of several states of northern Mexico, including but not exclusive to Baja California, Sonora, Chihuahua, Coahuila and Nuevo León (see map).
• Ticks spread the bacteria that causes RMSF. Ticks can live anywhere that dogs live. This includes close to peoples’ homes and in their yards.
• Dogs can carry the infected ticks that can bite humans. RMSF is NOT spread from a person to another person.
• Using Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-registered insect repellants on exposed skin and clothing.
• If you find a tick on your body, remove it as soon as possible.
• Ticks can be tiny and their bites may be painless, so you may not always notice a tick bite.
• If traveling with your dog, you can protect yourself and your dog by using tick-preventatives on your dog. Talk to your vet for further guidance.
• RMSF can be deadly. Seek medical attention if you or a family member has traveled to Tecate or another city in northern Mexico and develops symptoms during travel or within 2 weeks of returning to the United States.

Traveler Information

• Health Information for Travelers to Mexico
•   Prevent Tick Bites
• About Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever

Clinician Information

• CDC Health Alert Network (HAN): Severe and Fatal Confirmed Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever among People with Recent Travel to Tecate, Mexico
• Rickettsial Diseases  (CDC Yellow Book: Health Information for International Travel)
• RMSF: Clinical Overview of Transmission and Epidemiology
• Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever Clinical Diagnosis and Treatment for Health Care Providers (Continuing Education ) [Available in English and Spanish]
• Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever Training Video [Spanish Subtitles]

Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever (RMSF) is a potentially deadly bacterial disease spread through the bite of an infected tick.  

RMSF is spread by the brown dog tick ( Rhipicephalus sanguineus ) in parts of the southwestern United States and Mexico.

Symptoms of RMSF include fever, headache, and rash. The rash usually appears about 2–4 days after onset of symptoms, however, some patients never develop a rash. The disease can rapidly progress and be deadly if not treated early with the recommended antibiotic. Children younger than 10 years old are five times more likely than adults to die from RMSF.

Doxycycline is the recommended antibiotic treatment for RMSF in adults and children of all ages.

File Formats Help:

• Adobe PDF file
• Microsoft PowerPoint file
• Microsoft Word file
• Microsoft Excel file
• Audio/Video file
• Apple Quicktime file
• RealPlayer file
• Zip Archive file