easy day trips from vienna

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.

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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

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.

1. The Wachau Valley and Melk Abbey

2. budapest, 3. salzburg, 4. hallstatt, 6. bratislava, 7. klosterneuburg abbey, 8. the vienna woods, 9. the roman town of carnuntum, 10. lainzer wildlife park and baden bei wien, 11. the village of grinzing, 12. beethoven's heiligenstadt, 13. haydn's birthplace and rohrau castle, 14. danube boat tours, 15. eisenstadt and schloss esterházy, 16. 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.

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19 Best day trips from Vienna

Vienna, the capital of Austria, is a city full of charm and culture. However, sometimes you just need to escape the hustle and bustle of the city for a day or two. Lucky for you, Vienna is surrounded by charming towns and stunning scenery that make perfect day trip destinations! From medieval castles to picturesque wine regions, we’ve rounded up the best day trips from Vienna that are sure to leave you feeling refreshed and inspired. So pack your bags and get ready to explore some hidden gems just outside of this vibrant city!

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What countries are easy to get to from Vienna?

Vienna, being a major transportation hub in Europe, offers easy access to a plethora of neighboring countries that are perfect for day trips, tours, or weekend getaways. Countries such as Hungary, Slovakia, and the Czech Republic are all within close proximity to Vienna and can be easily reached by train or car. The capital cities of Budapest, Bratislava, and Prague are just a few hours away from Vienna and offer unique cultural experiences that showcase the rich history and traditions of Central Europe.

Additionally, countries like Germany (Munich) and Italy (Trieste) are also easily accessible from Vienna by train or plane, allowing for extended travel opportunities to explore more distant destinations without much hassle. With its strategic location in the heart of Europe, Vienna serves as an ideal starting point for exploring the diverse landscapes and cultures of several countries within reach.

What to pack for a day trip

There are a few things you should pack for a day trip from Vienna. First, if you’re going by car, make sure you have a map of the area. If you’re taking public transportation, be sure to have your ticket and/or pass. Second, pack snacks and drinks for the day. Third, depending on the time of year and weather, pack appropriate clothing. Fourth, if you’re going hiking or doing any other physical activity, be sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring sunscreen. Finally, don’t forget your camera to take pictures of your adventures!

How to get around on public transportation

There are a few different ways to get around on public transportation in Vienna . The first way is by using the city’s extensive underground metro system. The second way is by taking advantage of the many trams and buses that crisscross the city. And finally, you can also rent bicycles from a number of different locations around town.

The best way to get around Vienna is by using its excellent public transportation system. The underground metro system is reliable and efficient, and it will take you just about anywhere you need to go in the city. If you’re looking for a more scenic way to get around, you can take advantage of the many trams and buses that crisscross the city. And finally, if you’re feeling adventurous, you can always rent a bicycle and explore Vienna on two wheels!

If you’re looking for something more adventurous, check out Wienerwald Adventure Park. Here, visitors can try out activities like zip-lining and rock climbing. While it’s a great place to spend the day, be sure to bring some snacks as there are limited restaurants here.

No matter what you decide to do in the Wienerwald , one thing’s for sure – you won’t be disappointed! Make sure to take advantage of all the amazing sights and sounds this nature preserve has to offer.

Baden bei Wien

Baden bei Wien is a beautiful town located just outside of Vienna. There are numerous things to do in Baden, including visiting the famous spa, taking a stroll through the picturesque old town, or enjoying the many restaurants and cafes.

The Baden spa is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the town. The spa is situated in a stunning location overlooking the river and has been used by royalty and celebrities for centuries. Today, anyone can enjoy the spa’s facilities, which include an outdoor pool, saunas, and massage treatments.

Baden’s old town is full of charm and character. The cobbled streets and historic buildings create a unique atmosphere that is perfect for a leisurely stroll. There are also plenty of shops and cafes to explore as you wander through the old town.

If you’re looking for somewhere to eat in Baden bei Wien, there are plenty of options to choose from. There are traditional Austrian restaurants serving up hearty meals, as well as more modern eateries offering lighter fare. There are also many cafes where you can enjoy a coffee or cake while people watch.

Situated on the River Danube and only an hour away from Vienna by train, Bratislava is the perfect day trip destination . This charming city is packed with historic sights, great restaurants, and lively bars.

As night falls, enjoy a meal at a traditional Slovakian restaurant before heading out to explore the city’s vibrant nightlife scene. Make sure to stop by Blue Church, a striking Art Nouveau building that’s lit up in blue after dark.

Wachau Valley and Melk Abbey

The Wachau Valley is one of Austria’s most scenic regions, and a visit here can easily be combined with a stop at the famous Melk Abbey. The valley is located just outside of Vienna and can be reached by car or train. Once in the valley, there are numerous hiking and biking trails to explore, as well as many wineries and restaurants. The Melk Abbey is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the area and is definitely worth a visit.

Visiting both the Wachau Valley and Melk Abbey in one day is an unforgettable experience that should not be missed. Whether you are looking for a relaxing escape or an active adventure, these two destinations will surely satisfy your desires.

Salzburg is one of the most popular day trips from Vienna. The city is only a 2-hour drive from Vienna and is home to many famous attractions, including the Hohensalzburg Castle, the Mirabell Palace, and the Mozart House. Salzburg is also a great place to go for a walk or hike in the mountains, as it is surrounded by several scenic mountain ranges.

For those looking for some outdoor activities, Salzburg is home to several ski resorts, as well as stunning lakes and rivers where visitors can take part in various watersports. The city is also a great place to explore with its many parks and gardens, so you can easily spend a day or two here taking in the sights and sounds of this beautiful city.

Klosterneuburg Abbey

Located just a short train ride from Vienna, the historic town of Klosterneuburg is home to one of Austria’s most important monasteries. The imposing Abbey of Klosterneuburg , founded in 1114, looms over the town from its hilltop perch and is well worth a visit.

The Abbey’s Museum houses an impressive collection of art, including works by Albrecht Dürer, Rubens, and Rembrandt. The monastery’s library is also worth a visit, as it contains over 200,000 volumes, some dating back to the 9th century.

The monastery’s impressive grounds also contain two churches, a baroque garden, and the remnants of a medieval castle. A visit to Klosterneuburg Abbey is an excellent way to experience Austria’s rich history and culture.

Klosterneuburg Abbey is the perfect day trip for history and culture buffs visiting Vienna.

Roman Town of Carnuntum

Carnuntum was a major town in the Roman province of Pannonia. It is located in present-day Austria, near the city of Vienna. The town was founded in the 1st century AD and served as a key military and economic site during the Roman Empire.

Carnuntum is best known for its impressive legionary fortress, which was built around the year 8 AD. The fortress covered an area of around 50 hectares and contained barracks, workshops, granaries, and even a tribunal. Within the walls of the fortress stood a large amphitheater, capable of seating up to 15,000 spectators. This amphitheater hosted gladiator fights and other games.

In addition to the fortress, Carnuntum was home to many other impressive Roman monuments. The town had several public baths, temples dedicated to multiple gods (including Jupiter Optimus Maximus), and a theater where plays were performed by actors from across the Roman Empire. There were also numerous statues and monuments that commemorated important figures in Roman history.

Carnuntum became an important commercial hub during the 1st century AD. Its strategic location on major trade routes made it a popular stop-over point for caravans traveling between Rome and Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey). Trade goods such as spices, fabrics, and precious stones flowed through Carnuntum’s markets.

Today, visitors can explore the ruins of the Carnuntum at their leisure. The town’s impressive remains serve as a reminder of its

Village of Grinzing

Just outside of Vienna lies the quaint village of Grinzing . This lovely spot is perfect for a day trip from the city, and there are plenty of things to see and do. Start your day by exploring the many shops and boutiques in the village center.

Grab a bite to eat at one of the local cafes, then head over to the Heuriger (wine taverns) for some traditional Austrian wine and music. If you’re looking for something more active, take a hike up to Reisenberg Castle or go for a swim in the Danube River. No matter what you do, you’re sure to have a great time in Grinzing!

Haydn’s Birthplace and Rohrau Castle

Haydn’s Birthplace is a must-see for music lovers visiting Vienna . The small town of Rohrau, just outside of Vienna, is where Haydn was born and raised. The Haydn House is a museum dedicated to the composer and his life. Visitors can see the room where Haydn was born, as well as other rooms that have been restored to look like they did during Haydn’s lifetime.

Rohrau Castle is another must-see for history buffs visiting Vienna. The castle was built in the 12th century and served as a fortress for the Austrian royalty. Today, the castle houses a museum with exhibits on the history of Rohrau and its residents. Visitors can also explore the castle grounds and take in views of the surrounding countryside.

Eisenstadt and Schloss Esterházy

Eisenstadt is also home to a number of other historical sights, including the Gothic-style Heiligenkreuz Abbey and the Herzogburg, a Renaissance-era castle. The city makes for a great day trip from Vienna, and its proximity to Hungary means that visitors can easily combine a visit to Eisenstadt with a trip to Budapest.

Laa an der Thaya

Laa an der Thaya is a charming medieval town located in the Austrian province of Lower Austria. The town is situated on the banks of the Thaya River and is home to a number of historic buildings and monuments. Highlights of a visit to Laa an der Thaya include the town hall, the baroque church of St. Nicholas, and the remains of the city walls.

The town hall is an impressive Gothic structure dating back to the 14th century. It was originally built as a fortress for the Counts of Laa, and today it serves as a museum and cultural center. The baroque church of St. Nicholas dates back to the late 17th century and is known for its intricate interior designs. The city walls are another popular attraction in Laa an der Thaya . The original walls were built in the 15th century, but only fragments remain today.

Laa an der Thaya is also home to numerous parks, gardens, and hiking trails that offer amazing views of the surrounding countryside. One of the most popular attractions in Laa an der Thaya is Schloss Laa, a Renaissance castle located on the outskirts of town. The castle is open to visitors and offers guided tours throughout the year.

Cesky Krumlov

Cesky Krumlov is a charming medieval town located in the Czech Republic , just a few hours from Vienna. The town is situated on the Vltava River and is known for its well-preserved castle, lovely gardens, and quaint streets. Visitors can explore the castle grounds, stroll through the picturesque old town, and enjoy views of the river from one of the many bridges.

The town is home to the stunning Cesky Krumlov Castle, which dates back to the 13th century. The castle houses several museums, including a wax museum and an armory. Visitors can explore the castle grounds and witness its Baroque gardens, admire views of the river from the terrace, or take a tour of the castle’s interior and learn about its history.

Cesky Krumlov’s old town is equally as charming as the castle, with cobbled streets lined with colorful buildings and churches. The main square hosts’ seasonal markets and festivals throughout the year, while visitors can find plenty of restaurants and cafes serving up traditional Czech cuisine in the small side streets.

Cesky Krumlov is also great for nature lovers who enjoy hiking and biking through forests along riverside trails. There are many options for outdoor activities such as kayaking, horseback riding, or visiting nearby waterfalls. In wintertime, visitors can go skiing at one of the nearby resorts or take part in ice skating on a frozen lake in the area.

No trip to Brno would be complete without sampling some of the local cuisines. Traditional Czech dishes like goulash, pork, dumplings, and schnitzel can all be found here. There are also plenty of international restaurants offering everything from Italian to Japanese food. Brno also has a vibrant nightlife scene with plenty of bars, pubs, and clubs to enjoy.

Sopron is also known for its unique cuisine. From traditional Hungarian dishes to local specialties like gulyás and töltött káposzta, you’ll have plenty of delicious dishes to choose from during your stay. And don’t forget to try some of the region’s renowned wines! Whether you’re looking for a relaxing weekend getaway or an action-packed adventure, Sopron has something for everyone.

Devin Castle

Located just one hour from Vienna, Devin Castle is a must-see for history buffs and anyone who loves a good castle. This medieval castle was once the seat of power for the powerful Habsburg dynasty and has since been turned into a museum. Visitors can explore the castle’s many rooms and learn about its rich history. Devin Castle is also home to a famous cafe, which is the perfect place to enjoy a coffee or pastry after exploring the castle grounds.

Today, visitors can explore the castle’s many rooms which include a chapel, a knight’s hall, an armory, and even an underground dungeon. In addition to exploring the interior of the castle, visitors can also take in breathtaking views of Vienna from atop Devin Castle’s walls.

Lutzmannsburg

Lutzmannsburg is a small town located in the Burgenland region of Austria, about an hour’s drive from Vienna. The town is home to a number of wineries and is a great place to sample some of the local wine. There are also several hiking trails in the area, making it a great place to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

The main attractions in Lutzmannsburg include the Burgenland Wine Museum, which offers a range of exhibits on the history and production of wine in the region, as well as a tasting room. There is also the Lutzmannsburg Castle, a medieval castle built in the 13th century by Count Rudolph IV of Habsburg. The castle was destroyed during World War II but many pieces still remain and it is open to visitors.

The town is also home to several festivals throughout the year such as the Wine Festival in May and the Summer Festival in August. These events are great opportunities to sample some of the best local wines and enjoy traditional Austrian music, dance, and food. If you’re looking for a unique experience, Lutzmannsburg is definitely worth visiting!

Győr is a beautiful city located in northwestern Hungary. It is the capital of Győr-Moson-Sopron county and has a population of around 131,000 people. The city is home to many historic landmarks and beautiful buildings, as well as a variety of museums and art galleries. Győr is a great place to visit for a day trip from Vienna , as there is plenty to see and do in the city.

No matter what you decide to do during your time in Győr, you’re sure to have a wonderful time exploring this Hungarian gem.

Linz, the capital of Upper Austria, is a charming city located on the Danube River. It’s just a short train ride from Vienna, making it the perfect day trip destination.

You should also take some time to wander around the city’s cobblestone streets and admire the baroque architecture. On your way you can stop by one of the many cafes or restaurants in town – there’s something for everyone! And don’t forget to visit Landhaus Square where you can listen to live music or check out the local markets.

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day trip or something more adventurous, Linz has it all ! With its amazing sights, delicious food, and vibrant culture, it’s no wonder why this beautiful city is so popular with tourists.

There’s plenty to see and do in Linz , from exploring its historic old town to visiting its many museums and galleries. And of course, no visit to Linz would be complete without tasting some of the city’s famous Linzer torte!

Graz is the capital of the Austrian state of Styria and the second-largest city in Austria after Vienna. The city is situated on the Mur River in the southeastern part of Austria and is approximately 200 km (120 mi) southwest of Vienna. It is reachable within 2.5 hours train ride and another good choice for perrfect day trip.

Other highlights include Graz Cathedral , Mausoleum, Eggenberg Palace, and Landhaus. The Kunsthaus Graz art museum is worth a visit for its contemporary exhibitions, and foodies will enjoy exploring the city’s many markets and eateries serving regional specialties such as Styrian pumpkin seed oil and “grizzly” sausages.

Graz makes for an enjoyable day trip from Vienna or a great base for exploring Styria. With its museums, castles, palaces, parks, and markets, there is plenty to keep visitors entertained.

Vienna is a great place to visit and explore, but sometimes it’s nice to get away for a day. We hope our list of the best day trips from Vienna has given you some ideas for your own upcoming trip. From peaceful countryside hikes in the Wienerwald region to immersive wine tastings at one of Austria’s many vineyards, there are plenty of options for different activities that can make your time in Vienna and its surroundings even more memorable.

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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.

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Exploring the world, one place at a time.

15 easy day trips to take from vienna, austria.

• Post published: July 12, 2022
• Post category: Austria
• Post author: Charu Goyal

Known for its splendid baroque palaces, remarkable music heritage, magical Christmas markets, and much more, the Austrian capital city of Vienna has heaps to offer to travellers. Being located close to the border of numerous nearby countries at the Danube, it is also a convenient base to explore more of Austria and Eastern Europe.

Vienna is home to accessible train and bus stations that have great connectivity to the rest of Austria, as well as the neighbouring countries of Slovakia, Slovenia, Hungary and the Czech Republic. Whether you would like to amble around the storybook village of Hallstatt for a few hours or admire the orange topped roofs of Cesky Krumlov, the opportunities for unforgettable day trips from Vienna are nearly endless.

To bring you the best places, I asked other professional travel writers to recommend a destination they have personally visited and loved. In this article, you will find ideas for 15 best day trips from Vienna that are less than 3 and half hours away, along with how to get there. I hope it inspires you to spend more time in Vienna and explore its surrounding area to the fullest. There really is so much to see!

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase using any of those links, I may get a small commission. Thank you for your continued support!

Table of Contents

1. Salzburg

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Salzburg is one of the most charming cities in Austria. Home to an otherworldly fortress, glistening lakes, romantic bridges, and a quaint Old Town, it is a popular day trip from Vienna for those who do not have time to stay any longer. The journey takes around two and a half hours one-way, but the Alpine scenery of the city is reason alone to make the trip!

Start your day in Salzburg by wandering around the city’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town, Altstadt , and admire its unique design and setting. Most of the famous landmarks of the city such as the Salzburg Cathedral , Mozart’s Birthplace , St. Peter’s Monastery , and the incredible Hohensalzburg Fortress are located in this area. You can easily get to all of them by foot. Just make sure to buy the Salzburg Card which includes free admission to these sights as well as other places and all public transport in the city.

When visiting the Hohensalzburg Fortress, take the funicular up the hill as the climb is quite steep. But for the way back, make sure you walk down as the views are stunning and there are many picture opportunities throughout. There are also numerous hiking trails near the fortress that offer a great view if you like to be more active. 

Salzburg is also widely known for The Sound of Music. This classic film was set in the city and you can find many iconic sights from it in Salzburg. The Mirabell Palace and Gardens are the most impressive, but other places like Nonnberg Abbey , Schloss Leopoldskron , and Schloss Hellbrunn are worth checking out too. This Sound of Music tour is perfect if you would like to see the filming locations for yourself. 

Getting to Salzburg from Vienna: Salzburg can be easily reached by train, bus or car from Vienna. There are multiple trains and buses connecting the two cities per hour. The Railjet express going directly from Wien Hauptbahnhof to Salzburg takes less than two hours, while the regional trains take around two and a half. You can also rent a car in Vienna and drive the distance, the journey typically takes around three hours. 

Currency: Euro

2. Hallstatt

Another must-see Austrian destination to visit is the picturesque village of Hallstatt. Located in the Salzkammergut region of the country, it is not only an amazing day trip from Vienna, but one of the most magical places to see in Austria . Every corner in Hallstatt feels straight out of an alpine fairy-tale!

One of the best things to do when in Hallstatt is to stroll around Marktplatz , the main square, and explore the quaint alleys around it on foot. The lakeside promenade housing hotels, cafes, bakeries, souvenir shops, and unbelievable viewpoints, in particular, make it a treat for walking around. There are also many hiking trails offering breath-taking scenery to embark upon if you like. 

Next, take the funicular up to the Salzwelten Hallstatt, which is the oldest salt mine in the world and learn about its 7000-year-old history. Hallstatt Skywalk , the viewing platform located right outside the funicular station at the top offering unbeatable views of Hallstatt village, Hallstätter See, and the gigantic Dachstein mountains around, is also worth-visiting. If you are feeling adventurous, you can even skip the funicular and hike up there. 

Once back down in Marktplatz, head to the Aussichtspunkt viewpoint to admire Hallstatt from another perspective and take the postcard perfect shot of the village. On your way back, stop at the 18 th century Evangelical Church and take a closer look at this Neo-Gothic cathedral by the lake. Some other spots to not miss in Hallstatt are Five Fingers Viewing Platform , Dachstein Ice Caves , and The Bone House and Cemetery .

Getting to Hallstatt from Vienna: From Vienna, Hallstatt can be reached via train in around three and a half hours. You can take the OBB train line to Attnang-Puchheim and then switch once to hop on the local REX to reach Hallstatt Station. The station in Hallstatt is located across the lake, so you will need to take a short ferry to go on the other side. Tickets for the ferry can be bought on arrival. You can also rent a car and drive to Hallstatt directly, just try to reach early as parking can be an issue later in the day.

3. Budapest

Although Budapest is the capital city of Austria’s neighbouring country of Hungary, it is one of the easiest day trips from Vienna. Located at a distance of 240 kilometres from the Austrian capital, it is a beautiful city that can be conveniently reached in approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes. 

Begin your time in Budapest by admiring the Széchenyi Chain Bridge, one of the most iconic bridges in Europe. Spanning along the River Danube, it was the first bridge to link the two sides of the city, Buda and Pest seamlessly. Next, from the Buda side of the bridge, take the historic Castle Hill Funicular, which will drop you in the heart of Budapest’s Castle District.

Being the oldest locale housing some of the most visited sites and attractions in Budapest, Castle District is an unmissable area on any trip to the city. Some prominent landmarks you can’t miss whilst there include Buda Castle , Fisherman’s Bastion , Mattias Church and the Hungarian National Gallery . If you have a sweet tooth, make sure to also pay a visit to Ruszwurm – a centuries old pastry shop serving homemade Hungarian delicacies. 

After being on foot for the majority of the day, end your time in Budapest with a relaxing visit to the city’s most sought-after experience, thermal baths. There are various ones to choose from, however the Széchenyi Thermal Bath is the most known and visited. Home to multiple indoor and outdoor pools, it is the city’s largest and possibly most picturesque bath complex. Just purchase your tickets online as the queues can be really long at arrival.

Getting to Budapest from Vienna: Frequent direct trains and buses depart from Vienna to Budapest every day and take around 3 hours to reach. You can also rent a car and drive yourself, the journey typically takes around 2 hours and 30 minutes. Alternatively, this guided tour from Vienna to Budapest comes with transport for a hassle-free day trip. 

Currency: Hungarian Forint

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Located halfway between Vienna and Budapest (120 km away from each city), Gyor in Hungary is one of the easiest yet overlooked day trips from the capital of Austria. It is one of the oldest cities in the region and is known as the pearl of Baroque architecture – you will quickly understand why when walking around the place.

The Old Town of Gyor is small, which makes it perfect for wandering around and enjoying the atmosphere of the city centre with all its winding lanes. There are numerous buildings with the “monument” title, the most impressive ones being the two main churches of Gyor- Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption of Our Lady and Saint Ignatius Benedictine Church (it’s worth stepping inside to see the beautiful interior of both). 

Once done strolling around the Old Town, if you would like to relax over a cup of coffee and people-watch, there are plenty of cafes with outdoor sitting areas serving homemade Hungarian delicacies. For street food lovers, make sure to try freshly made Lángos – a deep-fried Hungarian flatbread that is similar to a pizza. You will find many vendors selling it on Baross Gábor street in the city. 

Some other places to check out in Gyor are Gyor Town Hall , Gyor Synagogue , Bishop Lookout Tower , and Szechenyi Square . With so much to do and see, Gyor truly is a Central European hidden gem that is impossible not to fall for. 

Getting to Gyor from Vienna: There are frequent trains between Vienna and Gyor (once per hour for most of the day) with a journey time of 1 hour and 10 minutes. In Gyor, the city centre with most of the attractions is located around 10 minutes walking from the train station. If you would like to have your vehicle with you, you can also drive from Vienna to Gyor. 

5. Bratislava

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Located unbelievably close to the Austrian capital, Bratislava is probably the easiest and most popular day trip from Vienna. An interesting fact is that it is the only capital in the world located on the border of three countries – Slovakia, Austria and Hungary. 

The city is rather compact and spending one day in Bratislava is the perfect time to see its highlights. Among the most interesting sites are the Bratislava Castle , the Old Town Hall , the picturesque Blue Church , Michael’s Gate , and the UFO Observation Deck .

The best and fastest way to get to know Bratislava is by taking a free walking tour, where a local guide will take you to the main attractions and share a lot about the history and culture, as well as some interesting facts. When walking around the city centre, you will come across different statues that have been put all around. Keep an eye out because some of them might surprise you.

A visit to Bratislava wouldn’t be complete without a delicious lunch at a local restaurant. Some good options are Slovak Pub and Urban Bistro . And don’t worry about changing money – just like in Austria, Slovakia’s currency is Euro, which makes everything much easier.

Getting to Bratislava from Vienna: You can reach Bratislava in just one hour by either car, bus, train or ferry from Vienna. There are many frequent public transport options between the two cities, but renting a car is also a great choice if you would like more flexibility.

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Mikulov is one of the most beautiful towns in the South Moravia region of the Czech Republic. Located just after the Austria – Czech Republic border, you can actually see the Mikulov Castle whilst you are still in Austria. 

Mikulov is a compact small town with a beautiful castle which has a gorgeous garden. You can visit the grounds of the castle free of charge. There are also temporary exhibitions inside the castle worth visiting, such as the one dedicated to the history of wine in the Czech Republic. 

South Moravia is Czech Republic’s largest wine producer , with over 96% of the production coming from there. Make sure to taste the local wine in Mikulov, as well as visit one of the local vineyards for a tasting. Another thing you must try when there is any of the native dishes cooked with the local Palava wine. This grape variety was created in Moravia and goes really well with spicy food, desserts, cheese and more.

For a panoramic view of the town, you can climb the Holy Hill just before sunset. The hike up takes only around 20 minutes. Along the way you will stumble upon different statues depicting the path of the cross, culminating with the chapel of St. Sebastian at the top. On the other side of the hill, you can even see some beautiful vineyards and tree orchards. 

Getting to Mikulov from Vienna: The journey from Vienna to Mikulov takes around 1 hour and 20 minutes by car and two hours by train . The trains from Vienna leave from the main train station in the city, but to reach Mikulov you will have to change at Breclav. Alternatively, you can also book a guided tour to Mikulov from Vienna and have them take care of the transportation.

Currency: Czech Koruna

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Brno is one of the easiest and best day trips from Vienna. Located just across the Austrian border in Czech Republic, it is the second largest city in the country. Whether you plan to explore the city or the scenic surrounding area known as Morovia, there are many incredible things to do in Brno that make it worth visiting.

Brno is home to St. James Ossuary , the second largest ossuary in Europe which was only discovered in the 2000s and opened to the public in 2012. Besides that, the city itself is a charming place to visit. The historic city centre features cobblestone streets, colourful buildings and lively plazas filled with cascading flower baskets and vendors selling homemade goods and fresh produce, making it wonderful to amble around. 

Perched upon Petrov Hill overlooking Old Town Brno, the Cathedral of St. Peter and St. Paul is another top attraction in the city. Also known as Petrov Cathedral, this beautiful landmark dates back to the 11th century and is one of the most unique cathedrals to visit in Europe. 

Unlike most churches, the church bell at Petrov Cathedral tolls at 11am rather than noon. The reason for this dates back to the Thirty Years War, when the city escaped a siege as the attackers promised to retreat if they did not capture the city by the time the church bells rang at noon. Those defending the city rang the bell one hour early, possibly saving it from being conquered. 

Getting to Brno from Vienna: There are several direct trains and buses between Vienna and Brno. The fastest train takes around 1 hour and a half to reach there and the bus takes around 30 minutes more. You can also rent a car in Vienna and drive to Brno yourself. Otherwise, guided tours between the two cities are a great choice if you don’t want to worry about transport. 

Currency: Czech Koruna, but some places also accept small Euro bills. 

8. Cesky Krumlov

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Cesky Krumlov is a charming little town located in the Southern Bohemian region of the Czech Republic. It is a picturesque destination that is a treat to walk around and explore in a day’s time.

There are plenty of things to do in Cesky Krumlov to keep you busy for a day. The first thing you will notice when you reach there is the maze of cobblestone streets. As you take a stroll, you will discover art galleries, lively bars, cute cafes, and small eateries serving local delicacies. This guided walking tour takes you to the best spots!

Across the river Vltava, sitting on a small hill is the majestic 13th century Cesky Krumlov Castle . For a small fee, you can tour the interiors. The highlight of the tour includes the Rosenberg Ballroom, the Baroque theatre, and the Royal Apartments.

But if you are on a strict budget, you can still explore the grounds and walk over to the Cloak Bridge for free. From the bridge, you will get sweeping views of the Old Town dotted with red brick roofs. Spread over 27 acres, the lovely castle gardens are also free of charge for visitors.

Another interesting way to explore the town is by a boat ride on the Vltava River , a relaxed option to take in the historical sights and end your day in the Czech Republic.

Getting to Cesky Krumlov from Vienna: Cesky Krumlov is located just over 200 km from Vienna and it takes around 3 hours to get there by car. To truly experience this atmospheric city, consider staying for the night. 

9. Ljubljana

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Slovenia’s capital, Ljubljana, is a scenic three and a half hours from Vienna. It is a small yet charming city that is ideal for a day trip. 

One place you shouldn’t miss when visiting Ljubljana is its old town streets, where many attractions, including the main square await travellers who venture off into exploration. The city centre is a captivating place for those who love charm and discovery. There are several bridges to explore, as well as streets filled with small shops and cafes that will satisfy your every need!

Also, make sure to check out the views from Ljubljana Castle , which are known to be stunning. To reach this incredible site, walk any of the available paths or take a scenic funicular ride up, before returning down again safely at your own pace. There are also guided tours and exhibitions of the castle, providing an opportunity to learn more about its history if you are interested.

Lastly, grab a local lunch and go for a stroll in the renowned Tivoli City Park before heading back to Austria.

Getting to Ljubljana from Vienna: The fastest way to get to Ljubljana from Vienna is by car, but several trains also run daily between the two cities. If you are driving there, make sure to park your car in the outskirts of the city as many streets in the city centre are car-free and parking can be hard to find. You can easily get to Ljubljana via public transport and explore the area on foot too.

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Ptuj is a city in the East of Slovenia, close to the border with Austria, Croatia and Hungary. It is the oldest recorded city of Slovenia, known for its history dating back to the Stone Age. If you are looking for places that are great to explore in a day, Ptuj is a perfect choice as you can see the entire city in a day if you want.

Begin your trip in Ptuj by visiting Ptujski Grad , the castle that dominates the town. Built in the 11 th century, it is an iconic and prominent landmark of the city. If you like visiting museums, the Museum of Regional History housing an exhibition on the Ptuj carnival with the “Kurenti” masks is also located there. Though the grand views of the Drava River and the red-roofed houses of Ptuj’s Old Town are enough reason to go!

Next, stroll around the old town of Ptuj and spend some time admiring its beautiful medieval buildings and Roman monuments. Along with being the oldest city, Ptuj is also a city surrounded with vineyards, and is home to the oldest wine cellars of Slovenia . Make sure to try some Slovenian wines while you are there.

If you have more time, you can make your way to Terme Ptuj – a spa resort with a water park to recharge your batteries and end the day on a relaxing note. 

Getting to Ptuj from Vienna: From Vienna, it takes around 3 hours to reach Ptuj by car. Although several trains, buses, and flights are available between the two cities, the journey is the fastest when driving. You can rent a car and take the B227, A23, E59, and 454 to reach Ptuj on toll roads. 

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Another great place to visit on a day trip from Vienna is Graz in the state of Styria. Considered one of the most important cities in Austria, it is a destination with lots of interesting sights as well as gorgeous buildings that are just perfect to visit on a day trip.

There are so many amazing things to do in Graz ! Highly impressive is the city’s historic Old Town with numerous attractions, museums and shopping opportunities. An absolute highlight and the landmark of the old town is Schlossberg with its clock tower, which stands high above Graz. You can have the best view of the city from up there and get some great pictures. 

In any case, you should also take a look at the main square, where several colourful buildings conjure up a particularly pretty backdrop. The small alleys leading to the square are also beautiful, housing noble boutiques and fabulous restaurants. The city centre of Graz is truly Instagrammable!

The museums in Graz are also worth visiting, especially Zeughaus , Joanneumsviertel and the futuristic Kunsthaus an der Mur . If visiting more than one, you can even consider getting the Museums-Card that will allow you to visit all the important museums in Graz for only 12 Euros.

Getting to Graz from Vienna: This romantic city is located in Styria and is only about 2 hours away from the Austrian capital, Vienna. The best ways to reach Graz is by car, bus or even more conveniently by train , which connects Graz with Vienna directly. You can also take a guided tour to Graz with transport included.

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Sopron is a Hungarian city by the Austrian border, and it’s one of those adorable towns that is still mostly known and loved by locals and visitors from the neighbouring countries. 

As small as Sopron is, it’s an exciting and pretty place to visit for a short trip. You can stroll the cobbled streets of its pastel-coloured Old Town , marvel at the mixture of Roman ruins, medieval, renaissance and baroque structures, sit in the lovely cafes and pubs, and taste the local red wines from the vineyards of Sopron Hill. A day trip from Vienna is enough to experience the best of this enchanting city!

Beginning from the Main Square, you can get lost on the narrow, cobblestone streets and old squares of the old town. Sopron dates back to Roman times when it was known as the walled city of Scarbantia, and you can see the ruins of those walls near the old town’s Main Square even today. The city’s iconic Firewatch Tower and stunning baroque palaces are also located there.

The 58 meters tall Firewatch tower is the symbol of Sopron. Standing on Roman foundations, it blends several architectural styles, and you can climb it for a bird’s eye perspective of Sopron. Other than taking numerous panoramas, make sure to count the church towers from up there too, there are surprisingly many.

Lastly, if you are an art lover, don’t miss Painters’ Alley (Festőköz in Hungarian), a romantic street that inspired many painters. This in-depth guide about Sopron has many more such recommendations.

Getting to Sopron from Vienna: Sopron is only 75 km from the Austrian capital, which is about an hour drive on the A2, followed by the A3 highway that exits directly onto Sopron. If you don’t have a car, choose the direct train from Vienna to Sopron that leaves every hour. The journey will take about 2 hours.

13. Eisenstadt

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Eisenstadt in Austria is another beautiful place for an unforgettable day trip from Vienna. This city is the political and cultural centre of the province of Burgenland and is located near the romantic Lake Neusiedl. 

During your day trip, you can expect an ingenious mixture of long history and tradition as there are often cultural events and concerts taking place in Eisenstadt. Also, the modern aspects have their charm too. Don’t forget to take a walk through the city centre and admire the many romantic sights that are there to see in the city.

The pedestrian zone with its many boutiques and cafes is really beautiful, as is the gorgeous castle park with its old trees and lakes, and the parliament building. The entire city centre of Eisenstadt is peppered with lovely details and there are numerous highlights to photograph.

A must on any day trip from Vienna to Eisenstadt is a visit to the Esterházy Castle . Its history dates back to a fortified Gothic castle from the 13th century. For more than 40 years, the world-famous composer Joseph Haydn was inspired by the special atmosphere of Esterházy Castle to write his extraordinary music. The Haydn Hall , named after the composer, is still one of the acoustically best and most beautiful concert halls in the world!

The castle park itself is another highlight in Eisenstadt. Spend some time there to enjoy the scenic botanical garden, small lakes and even a public swimming pool. Some sights to not miss are the Gloriette (the former hunting lodge of the Esterházys), Haydn House and Haydn Church , where Haydn’s mausoleum and Stations of the Cross are located. 

How to get there: It is easy to get to Eisenstadt from Vienna. You can either take a car, bus or train. There are several direct buses and trains available between the two cities daily and the journey typically takes less than an hour. Otherwise, you can get a rental car or take a guided tour.   

14. Vienna Woods

Recommended by Kenny from Knycx Journeying   

There are so many wonderful things to see and do in Vienna, it can take at least a week for first-timers to experience all the music, art, history, and culture that the capital of Austria has to offer. But, if you are looking for a short getaway from the city centre and its crowds, then Vienna Woods is a wonderful choice to be amidst nature. 

Located about 50 kilometres away from Vienna’s city centre, Vienna Woods is a city known for its wine gardens, vineyards, walking trails, and picturesque villages . When visiting, start your day with a wine tour in a vineyard and have a sip or two of some world-class liquor. For something more active, you can also go kayaking on the Danube or take a scenic walk through the magnificent historic forest, which was once a hunting ground of the Viennese royalty. 

Next, grab lunch in the town centre and spend some time ambling around the area. Vienna Woods is home to plenty of historic sites including the Mayerling Hunting Lodge and Heiligenkreuz Abbey – one of the oldest Cistercian monasteries in the world.

Getting to Vienna Woods from Vienna : There are a number of train and bus routes that connect Vienna to Vienna Woods within an hour. But if you would like to have more freedom, you can also consider renting a car and exploring the area on your own. Alternatively, this guided tour is also a great option to see the highlights.

15. Wachau Valley

Recommended by Roxanne from Faraway Lands

Only an hour out of Vienna by train, the Wachau Valley makes for a perfect day trip from the city. Located on the banks of the Danube River, the Wachau Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage site. You can expect to get a small peek of Austria’s castles, sweeping landscapes, charming villages and towns when there. While the scenery is stunning, what the region is really known for is its wine. 

The terraced vineyards in the Wachau Valley have views of the hills and river and are known for their dry white wines. Visiting a few of them makes for a very pleasant day. There are also a number of lovely towns to explore, out of which Melk and Dürnstein are two of the prettiest. Melk has a fascinating abbey to visit, while above Dürnstein sits the ruins of a famous castle where King Richard of England was once imprisoned. 

If you’re travelling by a car or bike, you can stop by some of the smaller towns too – Spitz is near the wineries and is very charming.

Getting to Wachau Valley from Vienna: From Vienna, take the train to either Melk or Krems . Dedicate a couple of hours to seeing the town, then you can spend the rest of the day exploring the valley, either by bike, car or bus. If you want to visit the wineries, cycling is a great option and there are also cycling tours which leave from Vienna. For a different view of your surroundings, you can also take the ferry between Krems and Melk and enjoy the lovely perspective.

Final Thoughts

I hope this post about the best day trips from Vienna gave you inspiration to check out some nearby places while there. In case you have any questions or a suggestion to add, please do not hesitate to leave a comment below or reach out to me via email or Instagram DM . I always love hearing from you! 

Happy travelling,  Charu xx

Want to keep reading? You may like “ The 13 best places to visit in Austria ” and “ The ultimate Hallstatt, Austria Guide ” too.

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12 city trips that are easy-to-reach from Vienna by train that you absolutely must do

Can’t get enough of the city life now that traveling is possible again, why not enjoy a quick trip to some other exotic urban setting we’ve put together a list of easy-to-reach cities you can visit just by hopping on the next train. these all make for a perfect (long) weekend getaway..

Here are 12 city trips that are easy to reach from Vienna by train in less than 6 hours:

Images via Unsplash

Budapest – City trips from Vienna by train

Where: Budapest, Hungary

How to get there: from Wien HBF to Budapest-Keleti (around 2h 39min)

Obvious reasons why you should travel there: the giant and beautiful gothic style parliament building, take a dip at the Instagram-famous thermal Széchenyi Baths, to sit at the Danube somewhere other than Vienna, take in the views of the city from the Fisherman’s Bastion, to try the tasty Hungarian cuisine, to enjoy the rough but grand vibe of the city

Less obvious reasons: munch on a delicious langós with various toppings at the central market hall, to take a ship as public transport instead of the metro, partake in endless games of pinball at the Flipper Muzeum, spend rainy days at a former aristocrat’s mansion that was turned into Szabo Ervin Library, to spend a night at one of the very cool hidden open air ‘ruin bars’ located in the courtyard of buildings (like  Racskert ,  Szimpla Kert) , enjoy the view from the 360 Bar

Images © Graz Tourismus - Tom Lamm © Graz Tourismus - Harry Schiffer

Graz – City trips from Vienna by train

Where: Graz, Austria

How to get there: from Wien HBF to Graz HBF (around 2h 35min)

Obvious reasons you should travel there:  catch some  scenic views from the Schlossberg and the clock tower, visit an artificial island on the river Mur that looks like a giant shell, admire the beautiful buildings in the old town, take hundreds of pics in front of the outlandish art-museum Kunsthaus Graz that looks like a human heart

Less obvious reasons: build-your-own lunch at one of many Bausatz Lokale in the city, walk through Schlossbergtunnel, take in some modern art in a religious building at church St. Andrä, slide down the largest underground slide in the world at ‘The Slide,’ eat your way through the daily market,  Kaiser-Josef-Platz Market

Munich – City trips from Vienna by train

Where: Munich, Germany

How to get there: from Wien HBF to Munich HBF (around 4h)

Obvious reasons you should travel there: to drink  beer in the beer gardens (obvious, right?), visit the Hofbräuhaus , to eat Weißwurst for breakfast with a Wheat beer in a place where both is socially acceptable, to check out the town hall at Marienplatz aka. the city’s most favourite postcard-building, to explore the multiple periods of art in the Neue Pinakothek, to experience a car-lover’s dream in the BMW Museum, Munich’s former Olympics Venue at Olympiapark, spend time shopping and walking around the so-called ‘bohemian neighbourhood’ of the city, Schwabing

Less obvious reasons:  see  the devil’s footprint at Munich’s Frauenkirche, walk a hidden stairway that leads to nowhere called ‘Umschreibung’, the pavement memorial of the nazi-opposing student group White Rose, to explore the nearby alps on nature day trips out of the city, to indulge in some heavy and hearty Bavarian cuisine, to watch (or join in yourself) the people surfing on the one wave in a stream known as the Eisbachwelle, go for a walk in West Park or the English Gardens, spends some thinking time in the NS-Dokumentationzentrum , go for a swim in the Müller´sches Volksbad

Images via Pixabay

Nürnberg – City trips from Vienna by train

Where: NÜRNBERG in GERMANY

How to get there: from Wien HBF to Nuremberg HBF (around 4h 14min)

Obvious reasons why you should travel there: to explore the castle of Nuremberg, beautifully arranged fresh fruits and vegetables in the Hauptmarkt, see where renaissance-painter Albrecht Dürer lived and did his work

Less obvious reasons: Bratwurst at the last real “Bratwurstküche”, to let your inner kid loose in the Toy Museum, a medieval Holy-Spirit-Hospital turned restaurant, a rather grim interpretation of married life in the form of the fountain-sculpture Ehekarussel, the home of the city’s former executioner and some surprisingly beautiful views out his windows

Prague – City trips from Vienna by train

Where: Prague, Czech Republic

How to get there: from Wien HBF to Praha hl.n. (around 4h)

Obvious reasons why you should travel there: to marvel at the   astronomical clock in the main square , for strolls across the Charles Bridge, to take a scenic route to the Prague Castle, for some very affordable Bohemian cuisine and local beer, for the buzzing nightlife (including the likes of Chapeau Rouge  , Roxy , Hemingway Bar ), to enjoy the romance of its medieval streets

Less obvious reasons: ice-cream filled chimney cake, a huge graffiti wall in honor of John Lennon, to dance the night away in the five-story club, Karlovy Lazne , for pickled cheese, relaxing at the Beer Spa (just please don’t drink the bath water)

Blick über die Salzburger Altstadt vom Mönchsberg Images: © Tourismus Salzburg, Fotos: Breitegger Günter

Sehenswürdigkeiten Salzburg, Blick vom Kapuzinerberg auf die Salzburger Altstadt und auf die Festung Hohensalzburg, Untersberg im Hintergrund

Sehenswürdigkeiten Salzburg, Blick über den Mirabellgarten auf die Salzburger Altstadt

Salzburg – City trips from Vienna by train

Where: Salzburg, Austria

How to get there: from Wien HBF to Salzburg HBF (around 2h 30min)

Obvious reasons why you should travel there: to binge on the  original Mozartkugel chocolates to satisfy your sweet tooth, to check if the hills are actually alive with the sound of music, frolicking in a flower field between scenic mountain views, baroque architecture, to visit classical music’s most famous Wunderkind W.A. Mozart house, to catch impeccable views of the old town from the Kapuzinerberg, to explore the blissful nature surrounding the city, to climb up to the fortress and see the city from above, wandering through the narrow streets of the old town, do a kitschy skip in the idyllic setting of the Mirabell gardens

Less obvious reasons: beer with the locals at Augustiner Bräu , visit the stone dwarfs at the Zwerglgarten, five human-sized gherkins (unfortunately not edible), visit the Eagle’s Nest

Images: © Vienna Würstelstand

Bratislava – City trips from Vienna by train

Where: Bratislava, Slovakia

How to get there: from Wien HBF to Bratislava (around 1h 7min)

Obvious reasons you should travel there:  it’s just a stone throw away from Vienna, cheap booze resulting in fun nights out, to check out the UFO bridge and enjoy the view up high in the Flying Saucer , the charming streets and squares to wander through

Less obvious reasons: enjoy Middle Europe’s renowned and very affordable cuisine, find out how closely connected the city is to Vienna, to go on a hunt throughout the city to find ALL the hidden human-sized bronze statues, listen to some music in an upside down pyramid or in a granary, lounge on the ‘Magio Beach’ on the Danube riverside, to get messy with the amazing racks of ribs in Meštiansky pivovar 

Images: via Pixabay & Vienna Würstelstand

Brno – City trips from Vienna by train

Where: Brno, Czech Republic

How to get there: from Wien HBF to Brno main train station (around 2h 11min)

Obvious reasons you should travel there:  it’s very easy to reach from Wien, the cheap beer, the heartwarming bohemian comfort food, the mix of gorgeous Modernist and Medieval architecture

Less obvious reasons:  it’s undiscovered by tourists, there’s plenty of Instagram-worthy buildings and spots to take pictures at, to climb the highest church tower and have a grand view over the city, to enjoy a vibrant city during summer, to experience the hip cafe scene

Dresden – City trips from Vienna by train

Where: Dresden, Germany

How to get there: from Wien HBF to Dresden (6h 40min)

Obvious reasons you should travel there: to visit one of the trendiest city’s to visit at the moment in Germany, to taste some quality German beer, to check out a historically important city that’s been rebuilt from scratch, to check out the halls of magnificent masterpieces by the old masters in the  Gemäldegalerie Alte Meister , visit the architecturally unique, Semperoper , to marvel at the plentiful architectural gems

Less obvious reasons: to really check out why it’s known as a living and breathing book of German history, to taste a glass of fine wine from the surrounding wine-growing region, to take a long stroll and check out the alternative scene of the city that tries its best to match Berlin’s vibe (and it’s doing a damn good job), for some serious bar-hopping

Images © Pixabay © Vienna Würstelstand

Innsbruck – City trips from Vienna by train

Where: Innsbruck, Austria

How to get there: from Wien HBF to Innsbruck (4h 14min)

Obvious reasons you should travel there: to visit the Goldene Dachl and the Bergisel Ski Jump stadium , to get that priceless Alpine feeling, to experience some epic hikes around the city

Less obvious reasons: to take the Hungerburgbahn funicular railway and the Hafelekar cable car all the way up the 2,556 metres mountain for the breathtaking views over the region, to rent a bike and explore the city and its surroundings, to check out the hip café and foodie scene in the old town, to see Innsbruck’s version of their own unique Ampelpärchen aka. Ampelskier

Images via Pixabay & Unsplash

Košice – City trips from Vienna by train

Where: Košice, Slovakia

How to get there: from Wien HBF to Košice (around 6h)

Obvious reasons you should travel there: to check out a former European Capital of Culture and enjoy some Central European charm

Less obvious reasons: to eat your way through town and try some Lokše (thin pancakes), or Bryndzové halušky (dumplings with sheep cheese – the national dish), to admire the historic buildings of the old town, to check out the nearby Spiš Castle which is the largest castle site in Central Europe

Linz – City trips from Vienna by train

Where: Linz, Upper Austria

How to get there: from Wien HBF, or Wien WBF to Linz HBF (1h 14min)

Obvious reasons why you should travel there: to check out the rich cultural scene, take the steep Pöstlingberg tram up the Pöstlingberg for the great view over the city, the stunning old town

Less obvious reasons: to eat the famous Linzertorte, to check out the Hip Hop capital of Austria, to check out the local club and somewhat underground party locations such as KAPU , Stadtwerkstatt , Exxtrablatt or Solaris , to enjoy the summer breeze next to the Danube in summer, to eat and dance at the cafés/bar/art and cultural space mix on the ship that is the Salonschiff Fräulein Florentine , check out the Ars Electronica Center

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15 Best Day Trips from Vienna, Austria

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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

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Vienna to Salzburg Day Trip – The Sound of Music, Mozart and More

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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.

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10+ Best Day Trips from Vienna, Austria

Last Updated on 26th June 2024 by Sophie Nadeau

This post may contain affiliate links. Please check out my  privacy policy  and  disclosure  for more information.

Vienna is the capital of Austria and is best-known for its Christmas markets, not to mention its musical legacy (Mozart and Beethoven both lived in the Austrian city) . Vienna also makes for a great base from which to explore the surrounding region of Austria, as well as nearby countries such as Slovakia, Slovenia, and Hungary. Here’s your guide to the best day trips from Vienna .

Located alongside the banks of the Danube River, Vienna is known as the city of Music thanks to its association with a number of famous composers, including Mozart and Bach.

The local language is Viennese German and some of the most famous attractions in the city today are grand cafés, illustrious palaces, and the opera. For more inspiration, be sure to check out our suggestions for one day in Vienna .

Some of these journeys are best undertaken in a car. Though I would not recommend renting a car to get around Vienna itself, you could consider renting a car for the day of your day trip only. Check car rental comparison prices here.

Liechtenstein Castle

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By Joanna of The World in My Pocket

Hallstatt is without a doubt one of the most beautiful villages in Austria. Even if it’s quite far from Vienna, it is definitely doable on a day trip if you wake up early enough. It’s one of those European fairytale towns that you won’t want to miss out on during any trip to Europe and so if this is your only opportunity to visit, it’s well worth the trip.

The train to Hallstatt takes around 3 hours, and you will have to change once at Attnang-Puchheim. If you leave at 6AM, you can be in Hallstatt around 9:30AM. The train station in Hallstatt is on the east side of the lake, which means that you must take a boat to cross over. The price for the boat is 3 euros and the schedule syncs with the arrival and departures of the trains.

There are plenty of  things to do in Hallstatt , even if it’s such a small village. Walking around the streets and admiring the Alpine architecture is extremely romantic. Be sure to bring your camera and comfortable walking shoes as the best way to explore this gem is on foot!

Besides the iconic postcard viewpoint, there are plenty of other great places where you can get great photos of the village. The main attraction of Hallstatt is the oldest salt mine in the world, located in the mountains above the village.

You can easily reach it by funicular, which runs every 10 minutes or so. Just outside the funicular station, on top of the mountain, there is a fantastic viewing platform from where you can enjoy great panoramic views over the entire lake and the surrounding peaks.

One tip for visiting Hallstatt would be to always have a jacket with you. The weather changes very fast and storm form out of nowhere. Make sure you are prepared. All in all, one of the very best day trips from Austria is to Hallstatt.

Last but not least, those looking for all of the public transportation details to be taken care of for them, and who wish to visit visiting multiple locations on one day, may well consider a guided tour like this Melk, Hallstatt, and Salzburg Private Tour from Vienna .

By Maggie of The World Was Here First

If you’re looking for a fantastic day trip from Vienna, you cannot go wrong with visiting Salzburg. As Austria’s fourth-largest city, planning a one-day  Salzburg itinerary  is an excellent option if you don’t have the time for a longer stay.

Located in the west of Austria, Salzburg is easily reached by train, bus or car from Vienna in about 2.5 hours. There are countless bus and train connections between the two cities each day, making this a great and easy option for a day trip. Alternatively, you can book a guided small-group Day Trip from Vienna like this one.

As a relatively compact city, you can see a lot of Salzburg within the confines of one day. Because you can walk from one end of the city centre to the other in about twenty minutes, you’re going to be able to pack in a lot of sites without getting too overwhelmed. 

Make sure to start your day at the Mirabell Palace and Gardens, which is famous for being a filming location for  The Sound of Music . Classical music fans will enjoy a visit to Mozart’s Residence or Mozart’s Birthplace museums.

Perhaps the most famous site in Salzburg, however, is the Hohensalzburg Fortress, a beautiful fortification that rests over the city and is absolutely fascinating to visit. 

There are lots of hiking trails behind the fortress that are worth wandering on if you’re feeling a bit more active. You can even walk all the way to the Augustiner Brau brewery and have a delicious Austrian beer in a very traditional setting. All in all, if you’re after an excellent day trip from Vienna, Salzburg is the perfect choice.

By Lori of Travlinmad

When visiting Vienna, build in some extra time for a day trip to Graz, the second largest Austrian city. Located in the southeast of Austria close to Slovenia, Graz is easily reached by bus or car in 2 hours and 20 minutes. To relax and enjoy the scenery along the way, most visitors opt for the comfortable high-speed train which takes just 2 hours.

From the modern train station in Graz, it’s best to take the tram to Hauptplatz, the medieval main square. From there, you’re on the doorstep of Old Town where you’ll find unique WWII historic sites and the Arnold Shwarzenegger Museum at the centre. 

If you arrive before noon, chances are there’s a local farmers market going on in Old Town. Graz has a small town feel and you can easily spend the day wandering the city and noshing on local food. The  restaurants in Graz  are some of the best in Austria and are perfect when paired with the delicious crisp white wines from South Styria.

Be sure and take the funicular up to Schlossberg, a fortress on the town hill. It’s the site of a centuries-old clock tower, Uhrturm, and there’s a good restaurant where you can grab drinks and a bite to eat.

From this height, you’ll overlook the Old Town and the Mur River which divides the town. Be sure and follow the bridge to the Murinsel, the futuristic pod that seemingly floats mid-river, but is really a cool cafe to grab coffee. Just north of the river, the ultra-modern Kunsthaus Graz exhibits contemporary art and is well worth a visit.

By Sophie of Solo Sophie

Easily one of the best castles in Europe is that of Liechtenstein Castle (or Burg Liechtenstein as it is so-called in German). This fortification dates all the way back to the Middle Ages and is often regarded to be one of the best-preserved 12th-century Romanesque buildings in Europe.

Close to the edge of the Vienna Woods and not far from the town of Maria Enzersdorf, Liechtenstein Castle is actually privately owned, though the interior can still be visited for a fee. As of 2021, a visit to the castle costs €10 for an adult.

Guided tours in English or German take place once an hour and it’s worth noting that the castle can only be visited as part of a guided tour. The easiest way to get to the castle from Vienna is by renting a car as public transportation only takes you to a few kilometres walk away from the medieval building.

By Kat of Biker Girl Life

Austria is famous for its vibrant imperial history, especially if you’ve spent time in Vienna and seen the buildings and museums there, but very few realise that the area is full of even older history- some dating as far back as the Roman Empire.

Visitors should also note that, historically, Vienna in Austria was known as Vindobona. There is a town in France called Vienne which, was founded in 47 BCE by Julius Caesar and was, rather confusingly, known as Vienna.

If you’re interested in ancient history, the best place to visit is the Roman ruins at Carnuntum. Found near the border between Vienna and Bratislava, Carnuntum started life as a Roman fortress, but grew into a large city of over 50,000 inhabitants during the first century (in size it was even larger than modern-day Vienna!)

It was a base for both the fleet and the legionaries and remained an important city for securing the border and serving the trade routes until well into the 4th century. Today, parts of the city remain standing and it’s possible to walk around them. One of the major attractions in the city are the amphitheatres.

The largest was built from stone in the second century and could seat around 8,000 people. The outline, some walls, and the atmosphere still remain today. You can also discover more about the gladiator school held at Carnuntum and the incredibly intense training these soldiers undertook. 

Another must-see is the Heathen’s Gate, one of the most recognisable landmarks in Carnuntum. Although only an arch remains, there are plenty of photos showing the huge cube it would have been and how imposing it would have looked.

It’s really easy to get to Carnuntum from Vienna, especially if you have your own vehicle. It’s only about 45km and the drive takes around 40 minutes. There’s plenty of parking on site and if you’re  motorcycle touring  there are safe spaces. Alternatively, there are public transport options; the closest train station is Petronell-Carnuntum and there are hourly trains during weekdays. 

TOP TIP: If you’d like to get a photo of this arch without people around it, go there first, ideally as early in the day as you can. It only gets busier as the day goes on.  Purchase your Roman City of Carnuntum Admission ticket here in advance.

Budapest is actually the capital of the neighbouring country of Hungary, though is an easy day trip from Vienna nonetheless. And so, just as Vienna is a great day trip from Budapest , so is true the reverse. Budapest can be reached from Vienna in around two and a half hours (depending on which train you choose).

Once in Budapest, there are a myriad of things to do. Admire the view from the Fisherman’s Bastion and marvel at the Parliament building. Budapest is actually formed of two towns which lie on either side of the river: Buda and Pest. The city is also known for its iconic thermal baths which are the perfect spot to relax in. For more inspiration, be sure to check out our one day in Budapest itinerary .

By Nadine of Le Long Weekend

Situated just over the Danube from Austria, the Slovakian Capital makes an intriguing place to visit as a day trip from Vienna. Close in distance, yet remarkably different in appearance, the two cities create an interesting juxtaposition.

Where Vienna is regal, refined, and almost uniform in appearance, Bratislava is wonderfully diverse, and a little shabby around the edges. It’s come from a rather rocky past, having served as the Hungarian capital, surviving many years under communist rule, and emerging today as an interesting city with a beautifully restored old town centre and a young and vibrant pulse running through it.

Of course, this tumultuous past means there’s much to discover, and the varied architecture is a testament to its past. You’ll most likely want to spend your  day in Bratislava  touring the old town, with its charming cobblestone streets, medieval buildings, and quirky statues.

Be sure to also take a wander up to the reconstructed castle (the former castle was destroyed in the early 19th century), and a ride up the iconic UFO tower for the best views in the city (tip- head there just before sunset, as the view over the castle, old town, and surrounding parks and gardens glows under the golden light).

To get to Bratislava from Vienna, you can drive yourself the short 1hr journey, but you’ll need to purchase the Slovakia toll vignette on the way. Alternatively, take public transport and jump on the train, bus, or ferry – each option takes between 60-90 minutes each way, and it can cost you as little as €10 return.

By Claire of Claire Pins Travel 

The Wachau Valley wine region, located between the Austrian towns of Krems and Melk, is characterized by quaint villages and dramatic, sloping vineyards built into stone terraces along the banks of the Danube River. This region has even been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for the unique cultural landscape, with towns dating back to the 11 th  and 12 th  centuries. 

While you could enjoy the region by car or on foot, the most popular way to  visit the Wachau Valley from Vienna  is by a combination of train ride and bicycle rental. Direct trains leave hourly from central Vienna to the town of Krems an der Donau, which has several rental shops to choose from. 

A popular day trip itinerary is to cycle from Krems to the village of Spitz, cross the river and cycle back up to the ferry crossing for the well-known historic town of Durnstein on the opposite side.

Don’t miss the panoramic views of the valley from the castle ruins lookout above the town of Durnstein! This roundtrip is about 40 kilometres in total, which is perfect for a leisurely day trip and will allow you lots of time for wine tastings and photo stops.

Another popular one way option is to start your day in the town of Melk to see the famous Melk Abbey, cycle to Krems and return to Vienna on the train from there. You can easily and safely cycle along the banks of the river on a designated cycling path, which is separated from the main road.

There is very little elevation and no major inclines or obstacles, so cycling would be suitable even for those with less experience. Be sure to stop by one of the many wineries for a tour or tasting, the most common varieties produced here are Riesling and Grüner Veltliner. For those looking to go wine tasting with all of the transportation details taken care of, consider booking this Wachau Valley Day Tour with Wine Tasting.

By Cosette of   KarsTravels . 

Ljubljana has a laid-back vibe and is the capital of Slovenia. It’s in western Slovenia, and perfect for strolling around in. From spending  one afternoon in Ljubljana  to several days, there’s plenty to do in the city for everyone. For more inspiration, check out our one day in Ljunljana suggested itinerary .

On any itinerary should be to visit Ljubljanski Grad, the large castle towering over the city. The castle is reachable by car and on foot, but also by furnicolare. A glass cogwheel that goes up from the city center to the castle, with perfect views on the city. Climb the tower, visit the inside of the castle, wander around the courtyard and the grounds.

There are so many well preserved buildings from the Baroque and Jugendstil periods in Ljubljana, stroll around to admire their colorful facades. Tromostovje, a triple bridge, is a highlight, so beautifully adorned. A tip is to stay on the outskirts of the city or park there, and visit the city center by bus.

Ljubljana has a lot of buildings with a long history. In the city center most buildings are from the Baroque and Classical period, outside the center there are mostly buildings from the Communist period.

There was already a settlement in the area in 1BC, just named Emona. From the 12 th  century the name Ljubljana came into use. It was the capital of the duchy Carniola in the 13 th  century, in the 14 th  century it became part of the House of Habsburg, until the 19 th  century.

They renamed it Laibach, and a large population of German speaking people settled in the city. After the Second World War Slovenia was part of Yugoslavia. In 1991 Slovenia gained independence and Ljubljana became its capital.

Ljubljana is 4 hours driving by car from Vienna, by toll roads. By train the fastest is going to Maribor and then to Ljubljana, almost 6 hours traveling in total. Those wishing to have the transport from Vienna to Slovenia taken care of may consider booking this Slovenia Day Trip From Vienna Including Ljubljana and Bled.

By Knycx Journeying

Tourists know that there are so many exciting things to  see, do and eat in Vienna , as at least a week is required for visitors to experience the music, art, history, and culture of the Capital city of Austria has to offer. 

Having said that, a wonderful day trip from the city is to explore a small town a little bit further away from the city center like Vienna Woods. Vienna Woods is located about 50 kilometers away from Vienna’s city center, and it is a place well known for its beautiful wine gardens, vineyards, natural walking trails, and picturesque villages. 

There are a number of trains and bus routes that lead to Vienna Woods within an hour from Vienna; To make a full day out of the city, consider hiring a car so you can get around town and explore the area at your own pace.  

Start the day with a wine tour in a vineyard and have a sip of some world-class liquor. For a more active adventure, 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. 

All in all, Vienna Woods has something special to offer, no matter it is for food and wine lover, activity seeker, history buff, or natural people. Due to its close proximity to the city of Vienna, it’s also one of the easiest and most convenient day trips from Vienna.

By PlacesofJuma

A really nice trip amb Vienna is definitely to Zell am See! This magical place is absolutely worth seeing! Situated in an almost kitschy idyll, surrounded by high mountains, green meadows, and with the turquoise blue Zeller Lake, this destination is a real highlight in Austria.

There are so many  things to do in Zell am See . Whether sightseeing, sports, gondola rides to glaciers, gorges, lakeside resorts, or museums, no tourist will be bored in this diverse region – we promise!

As a special tip, we can definitely recommend a day-trip in the summer month! At this time it is most beautiful in Zell am See, everything is green, the weather is great and the atmosphere is incredible. Also the days are much more longer than in winter!

In Zell am See there are a lot of places worth seeing. However, you should definitely see the historic old town with the beautiful townhouses directly on the lake, whose history goes back to the 9th century. If you like, you can take a boat trip from there and discover the highlights of the region from the boat.

A trip to the Kitzsteinhorn, a glacier that can be reached in no time by gondola, is also wonderful. Another highlight is the Kaprun reservoirs, which have plenty of photo opportunities to offer.

Sporty people, on the other hand, visit one of the numerous gorges, such as the Sigmund Thun Klamm, one of the most beautiful gorges in the country. The best way to reach Zell am See from Vienna is by rental car. For this, you need about 3 hours. However, there are also buses and you can also get there by train.

By Rose of Where Goes Rose

One of the most picturesque locations that can be reached from Vienna is idyllic Cesky Krumlov, a small, UNESCO-protected city in the Czech Republic. For a total contrast to Prague, you need to visit this charming settlement often described as a ‘real life fairytale’. 

Visiting the majestic Cesky Krumlov Castle is worth a trip all by itself. Dating back to 1240, this enormous castle has been influenced by many wealthy residents and the changing styles of the times: in the 1600s, it was modelled to match the architecture of Vienna. One of the highlights of visiting today is that the Castle is home to the best-preserved baroque theatre in the world.

Cementing Cesky Krumlov’s reputation as a cultural hub, these are a plethora of museums covering everything from art, history, photography, puppets and old-fashioned marketing materials. Egon Schiele Art Centrum is a must for those interested in the works of Egon Schiele, Salvador Dalí and Gustav Klimt.

Although Cesky Krumlov is indeed idyllic, don’t expect it to be a sleepy hidden gem. Due to its beautiful architecture and idyllic nature, it’s a tourist hotspot. A top travel tip is to visit early especially if you’re a photographer and want to snap some shots without the crowds.

Another option is to stay past 4pm when the tour buses depart, thus experiencing golden hour over this wonderful living fairytale. To reach Cesky Krumlov from Vienna, drive in 2.5 hours or catch a direct shuttle bus in just over 3 hours. It’s a long day but well worth it.

By Monique of Trip Anthropologist

Only 75 kilometres from Vienna in western Hungary is the charming medieval town of  Sopron .  Although Sopron is surrounded by excellent wine country, forests, and lakes and is a great destination for an extended day, it is also a very convenient day trip. The old city centre packs a great many interesting attractions into its compact area.

Like many European cities, the old city centre of Sopron is best discovered on foot so be sure to pack comfortable shoes to walk in. You will wander along cobbled lanes, past renaissance, baroque, and medieval architecture and through the towns many medieval squares.

At the heart of the city is the main square. The Holy Trinity column in the middle of the square commemorates the many locals who lost their lives to the Black Plague. From here you can visit City Hall (Eggenberg House) , Storno-ház (a 15 th  century building housing a museum) , and Fabricius-ház, an 18 th  century baroque house which is a museum for the finds from the Roman excavation of Scarbantia, below Sopron.

The Baroque “Goat Church” is close to these elegant buildings on the main square. If time is short, then in addition to spending time in Sopron’s main square, visitors should seek out the ruins of the ancient Roman town of Scarbantia, and the city’s focal point, the 58 meter-high Firewatch Tower (Tűztorony) .

Excavated parts of the old Roman market town, Scarbantia, include the Forum and the walls. They lie between apartment buildings and offices on one side, and the main square on the other. You can only get into the ruins by entering through an office block!

Sopron holds dozens of festivals each year and a Christmas market. The Fairies festival celebrates the fairytales of the fairy folk of the forests surrounding Sopron. It is held around June 9 each year and a wonderful time to visit Sopron.

It’s an easy drive from Vienna to Sopron for a daytrip. Simply take the A2 from Vienna to the A3 and then onto the Sopron exit. This takes you directly to the city. Public transport is also very convenient with trains leaving from Vienna every hour. Sopron is the last stop on the line and the journey takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes.

By Emma of Emma’s Roadmap

Lake Bled is one of the most magical places in Europe for sure! The first thing you will notice is the colour of the water which is so blue that it seems unreal. But this is not the only thing that makes Lake Bled so unique.

In the most picturesque images, you can see the small island that stands in the middle of the lake. The legend says that the lake was created by fairies who go dancing at night on this small island.

When visiting Lake Bled, there are several activities you should definitely do. First of all, hike up to the Ojstrica viewpoint from which you have a great view of Lake Bled. Then, make sure to rent a little boat and make your way to the small island in the middle of the lake to visit the church and have a drink.

Of course, you can’t forget to taste a Bled cake at Vila Bled, which is a typical kind of pastry for Bled. Plus, for a nice dinner experience, try the kitchen of Restaurant Sova Bled.

From Vienna, Lake Bled can be reached by car, driving over Graz and, if you like, Maribor and Ljubljana as well. This drive takes about 4h30, so it might be wise to plan your day out in advance and leave in time!

At certain moments, Lake Bled can get quite busy, if you then want a calmer experience, take a look at Lake Bohinj. This lake is located not far from Lake Bled, as fun for several adventurous activities, but much calmer as well.

By Melissa of Parenthood and Passports

The small village of Mondsee, Austria is an easy and relaxing day trip from Vienna or Salzburg. Roughly 2.75 hours from Vienna by car, Mondsee is located directly off the A1 highway, making it an easy drive from Austria’s capital city.

Situated on the shores of Lake Mondsee, the town is home to one of the most famous churches in Austria. Basilica St. Michael not only holds historical significance, dating all the way back to the mid-700s, but it is also a famous filming location in The Sound of Music , one of the most recognized movies of all time. 

Touring the basilica, which is often called the Mondsee Abbey, is one of the top things to in Mondsee , a town of less than 4,000 residents. The pale yellow cathedral with its ornate pink interior has one of the most fascinating church altars in the world.

The altar contains the mummified remains and decorated skeletons of martyrs and saints. Across from the famous cathedral, you’ll find a row of colorful cafes where you can enjoy lunch or have a refreshing drink.

Although the basilica in the heart of the town is the main draw to Mondsee, it is also a popular town for lake activities, like sailing, paddle boating, or swimming on a warm day.

There are lots of large shade trees and some lakeside vendors selling coffees, beers, and ice cream near the shore. It is the perfect place for a lakeside picnic or a relaxing afternoon by the water. 

By Zoe of  Together In Transit 

For a day trip in another country from Vienna, head to the beautiful location of Prague in Czech Republic. It is best to reach by car for a day trip, which takes just over 3 hours from city to city.

Prague is a unique destination to visit with many things to do for all ages. As the capital of Czech Republic, it’s a lively city that often has live music from most popular streets as well as from the beautifully famous bridge Charles Bridge. Around this bridge and centre area, it’s very easy to walk around due to the street’s being car-free, so a public transportation ticket is not required. 

For highlights to explore on a day trip from Austria, step into the old town square for gorgeous views and a cosy atmosphere with the local restaurants. While at the square, watch the Astronomical Clock Strike on the hour before climbing the clock tower for 360 views of the capital. 

For those into art or history, check out the graffiti Lennon Wall while exploring and then to Prague Castle for a tour. Else, take a tour at the Treasures of St Vitus Cathedral instead, where lots of local treasures are on viewing alongside the Church’s magnificent art nouveau stained glass.

For something alternative, there is also a KGB Museum open daily. Top tip, don’t leave Prague without eating a delicious Trdelnik, the soft twisted donut that are sprinkled with sugar and cinnamon! For more inspiration, be sure to check out our suggested one day in Prague itinerary .

Enjoyed reading about the best day trips from Vienna? Pin this article now, read it again later:

Sophie Nadeau loves dogs, books, Paris, pizza, and history, though not necessarily in that order. A fan of all things France related, she runs solosophie.com when she's not chasing after the next sunset shot or consuming her weight in sweet food. Currently based in Paris after studies in London, she's spent most of her life living in the beautiful Devonian countryside in South West England!

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7 Easy Day Trips from Vienna, Austria

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The city of Vienna is rightly popular with tourists. They come to admire its imperial splendour and indulge in cake with their coffee. Filling a few days in the Austrian capital isn’t hard at all, especially considering the various day trips from Vienna that are possible.

The city may not be close to Austria’s other popular spots like the Alps, Salzburg or Hallstatt , but that doesn’t mean there’s nothing much closer. Vienna also happens to lie extremely close to the borders with several other countries, so of the many Vienna day trips some are international excursions. Even the ones in Austria go a little further from spots just on the outskirts of Vienna like Kahlenberg.

Although it’s possible to travel considerably further to visit popular places like Budapest , let’s start with the easy day trips from Vienna first.

Table of Contents

Wachau Valley

After Vienna, one of the other firm favourites in the country’s east is the Wachau Valley . This picturesque stretch along the Danube River often gets seen by river cruises, but it’s also probably the best of the day trips in Austria from Vienna. At this stage, I’ve visited the sights of the Wachau Valley three times and still have a few spots along the river to visit.

The Wachau rests roughly 80km west of Vienna and runs between the towns of Krems and Melk . Krems is a rather small destination, with colourful pedestrian streets and a striking city gate. Melk on the other hand is dominated by its massive abbey which sits inside an extravagant palace. This is one attraction that is worth opening your wallet for, as its incredible interior easily outshines the building’s pretty exterior.

Last but not least is the charmingly historic town of Durnstein . A scenic town directly over the river, it sits between vineyards and the castle in which Richard the Lionheart was held captive after the Crusades. Besides the three towns mentioned here, the valley is home to castles, abbeys, orchards and towns each worth your time.

Getting There: Both Krems and Melk can be reached by train in 1 hour , with buses running between and to Durnstein. It’s even easier to get about when renting a car or joining a tour for the day .

Vienna isn’t the only place in Austria to admire the country’s glory days, as is proven by the small city of Eisenstadt nearby. South of Vienna almost at the Hungarian border, a day trip to Eisenstadt shows you another side of the former empire. With its green parks and gentle streets, the quiet city gives you a change of pace from the capital.

The centrepiece of a visit to Eisenstadt is the impressive Esterhazy Palace . The rest of the city seemingly revolves around this grand old building and the vast park grounds behind it. Besides touring the palace, the pretty city streets are a nice place to stroll as you take in other sights like the Cathedral, wonky Haydn Church and the remnants of the old Town Walls. Eisenstadt also shares in Austria’s musical pedigree as the long-time home of famed composer Joseph Haydn.

For those looking to delve even further into the grand, musical past of Austria, Eisenstadt is a valuable destination to consider.

Getting There: Despite how close it is to Vienna, the train to Eisenstadt is around 70 minutes one-way. The much faster alternative is renting a car for your time in and around Vienna.

This part of Austria is well-known for its imperial history, but did you know it has Roman history too? Well, there is, and it can be seen in an ancient Roman city a short trip from Vienna. Around 40km down the Danube River from Vienna, you’ll find the remains of Carnuntum , once a major Roman settlement for the region.

The main starting point of a visit to Carnuntum is with the so-called Roman City Quarter , where you’ll find the main museum building. It is here that you’ll learn about the 400 years of Roman history in Carnuntum, as well as aspects of Roman life, such as religion and gladiatorial fights.

They’ve even fully reconstructed several Roman homes accurate to life in the 4th century, allowing you to see just how people lived then. Of the many Roman ruins I’ve encountered, this is the first I’ve seen presented in this way, making for an entirely fresh perspective.

Besides the reconstructed city centre at the museum, there are various other remains located around Carnuntum. Most notably, these include several amphitheatres , one from the civil city and one from the military barracks. It may take a little time to get between the sites, but it makes you appreciate even more the scale of this unexpected side of Austria’s history.

Getting There: To get to Carnuntum, simply take the S7 train out past the airport or by renting a car . You may need to walk through or find local transport to reach the scattered sites in the area.

Given its popularity, many people probably think that Salzburg is Austria’s second-largest city. That honour goes to the city of Graz in the country’s south. Graz is a rather intriguing destination, in that it blends typical traditional buildings with some quirky modern additions. Still, it tends to receive just a fraction of the visitors of places like Hallstatt .

The most popular historical landmarks of Graz tend to revolve around the Schlossberg , a hill overlooking the city. Now what remains of the castle fortifications have been turned into a giant park. It’s here that you find the symbolic clock tower that has become quite the icon. Below the hill, you’ll find the UNESCO heritage-listed Old Town, with all the grand architecture you could expect from an Austrian city.

Graz’s modern flourishes tend to gravitate towards the waterfront of the Mur River in the city’s heart. For starters there’s the Murinsel , an artificial island in the river, that looks like a giant, floating basket. Close by lies the Graz Kunsthaus , a modern art museum with a frankly bizarre exterior. It’s this contrast of traditional and modern that separates the city from Vienna.

Getting There: A little further than most, the city is 2.5 hours away by train . It’s also only a little quicker when taking your rental car there. Tours to Graz from Vienna aren’t all that common, unfortunately.

Brno, Czech Republic

People often underestimate the size of Europe thinking you can get anywhere without too much trouble. While that’s mostly flawed, Vienna doesn’t help with the discussion. From the city, it’s quite possible to visit places in the Czech Republic to the north, including the major city of Brno .

Greatly overshadowed by Prague, my repeated visits to Brno have left me with a soft spot for the city. Located in the Czech region of southern Moravia , the city offers quite the contrast to the regions of Bohemia. Things aren’t always quite as grand as the capital, owing to their greatly different historical roles. But Brno is also more heavily shaped by its student population, with its cool cafes and modern places to eat.

As for attractions, the most impressive is the imposing Cathedral of St Peter and Paul whose spires stand out everywhere. Špilberk Castle with its views and dark history is a close second though. Brno is certainly a destination you can hope to see much of in a day, as most things are near the central Old Town.

Getting There: The quickest means of reaching Brno is the 1.5-hour train journey from Vienna . The drive is longer at closer to 2 hours, but renting a car does have its benefits. Of course, as does visiting with a tour, although options are limited.

Bratislava, Slovakia

When it comes to a cheap and easy Vienna day trip, heading over the border to Bratislava is ideal. The capital of Slovakia is quite close and there are so many ways of getting there. Oh, and it also happens to be an interesting city, full of sights and insights into Slovakian culture.

With a day trip to Bratislava , you have all the pleasant landmarks of its great Old Town, not to mention the simple magnificence of Bratislava Castle . Within the Old Town, must-see spots include Michael’s Gate , the beautiful tiled roof of the Old Town Hall and the courtyards inside the Primatial Palace . The viewing terraces outside the castle though are possibly my favourite spot in Bratislava. Here you look out over the city’s rooftops and the Danube riverfront.

It’s also possible to experience a little bit of Slovakian cuisine and culture when in Bratislava. There’s the Old Market on SNP Square, to (more) coffee and cake at Franz Xaver Messerschmidt . Plus, don’t miss trying halusky in the cellars of Segnerova Kuria . If you’ve ever wondered what Slovakia is like, this quick day trip from Vienna will show you.

Getting There: You’ll find public transport details here if you decide against renting a car . It also happens to be one of the more common day tours from Vienna.

Sopron, Hungary

Hungary is the other country that is easily reachable from Vienna, with historic Sopron as one of its best offerings. Just across the border, Sopron is quite popular with the Viennese for shopping and medical work. What many don’t realise though is that it’s also quite a delightful destination as well.

The main focus of a visit to this Hungarian city is its walled Old Town as most of the things to do in Sopron can be found there. Within its fragmented town walls lie street after street of distinguished architecture. The city’s Main Square is a perfect example of that. Particularly interesting here is the Fire Tower , from which you get some nice views across the city’s rooftops.

As for learning a bit about Sopron and the history of this part of Hungary, step over to Storno House with its city museum. There’s also the medieval-era Old Synagogue , which details the history of the city’s Jewish community . All in all, Sopron is a simple, yet revealing place to visit from Vienna.

Getting There: From Vienna to Sopron is only 80 minutes by train , although renting a car allows for side trips to places like Eisenstadt above.

Making Day Trips from Vienna

If you’re still in the middle of planning your Vienna visit, these resources on when to visit Vienna and where to stay in Vienna will be extremely useful.

Whether visiting places by train or car is the better option greatly depends on which location. You can book train tickets for all of these trips quickly and easily at Omio .

With a rental car though you can also go further and visit other destinations like Trencin in Slovakia, Koszeg or even Budapest in Hungary. If you do choose to drive into neighbouring countries, make sure to check whether you need a vignette to drive on their motorways, e.g. like you do in the Czech Republic.

Finally, if you’re curious about all the different day trip options from Vienna, then it’s best to head over to Get Your Guide and see what’s available .

Which of these day trips from Vienna have you been on? Where else would you recommend visiting from Vienna? Please share your thoughts and questions in the comments below.

David is the author behind the Travelsewhere travel blog and is always on the search for the quieter, less-visited corners of the world.

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Great list thank you. I will share this.

Thank you, glad you liked it 🙂

Great list! I still need to go to Vienna. I was thinking I would do a day trip to Hallstatt Austria. Have you been there? The photos I have seen look stunning. Thanks for sharing on #TheWeeklyPostcard

I’ve been to Hallstatt twice actually Anisa, it’s such a magical place! The photos really do it justice, but it is a decent drive from Vienna. I visited in winter and spring, winter really had a special air to it. Hope you get to visit both Hallstatt and Vienna some day.

You’ve only given me more reason to prolong another stay in Vienna! Though personally, I haven’t really felt a pull to visit Graz yet. But should I find myself in the area, of course I wouldn’t say no! Thanks David for linking up with #TheWeeklyPostcard!

I’m actually hoping to revisit Graz as it’s been 5 years already and I have a feeling it has a lot more to offer than either of us realise.

I’d love to visit Bratislava, it sounds like a lovely city. I hadn’t realised there were quite so many interesting places so close to Vienna.

Glad I could share them with Annabel and do recommend at least spending a little time getting to see Bratislava if you can.

Although Vienna is very high on our list, Bratislava would be a fantastic side trip! One more place we’ve wanted to see for ages. And your posts from Brno put that on our list a while back. This definitely calls for a long term visit. 🙂

Yes, it’s a tough choice isn’t it, see more of Vienna or go explore the surrounding spots? Ultimately, I recommend both!

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Vienna Unwrapped Inspiration and Planning For Independent Travellers who are visiting Vienna

Day Trips From Vienna Austria: Where To Spend A Gorgeous Day

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If you have an extra day or more these 9 day trips from Vienna increase your radius beyond the capital’s culture. Within a radius of 200 miles half a dozen top landmarks, UNESCO World Heritage sites and European cultural capitals huddle together.  Let me share a few day trip ideas to neighbouring cities and the countryside to explore in a small group or on your own.

For a quick overview and customer reviews click on available day trips and excursions from Vienna .

1. Vienna Salzburg Day Trip

As for transport, you can go by private car transfer from Vienna , or train to Salzburg, or take one of these organised Vienna tours to Salzburg . Don’t feel your travel time is wasted. On your way there (if going by car) you will travel through Salzkammergut’s lake paradise.

Duration of trip: 12-13 hours

2. Vienna Budapest Day Trip

Actually, I love to compare Vienna with Budapest since they are strikingly similar and delicately different: from architecture and music to cakes and people themselves. Essentially, you can embark on a self-guided tour by rental car, train or bus, or book a guided day trip from Vienna to Budapest .

Duration of trip: 12 hours

3. Vienna Prague Day Trip

I have joined a guided day tour to and within Prague. Read my review.

Duration of trip: 13 hours

4. Day Trip To Bratislava

After that, cities like Budapest and Prague had that magnetic lure… A while ago, I finally embarked on a 75-minute boat ride to the Slovakian capital for a day. So good I was there! Read what I experienced in  Mini Danube Cruise .

Duration of trip: from 6 hours

5. Wachau Valley

If you prefer to venture out on your own but in private, consider hiring a private car and driver for 4, 8 or 12 hours.

Duration of trip: from 4 hours

6. Vienna Woods

Access my top tips on spending a day in the Vienna Woods, on your own or as part of a guided tour. Read my review of the  Seegrotte tour review when I crossed Europe’s largest underground lake.

7. Vienna Alps

There are also private guides who take you there right from Vienna. In my post Vienna Alps I share my best tips for a day trip, and what to see and do.

8. Klosterneuburg Abbey

When Regina , a locally living tour guide, took me there, I kept comparing this attraction to Melk Abbey in Wachau Valley. It is AS good and at just nine miles distance a great destination for exploring Vienna’s closest surroundings along the Danube. My favourites: the little green courtyards, the unfinished Atlas hall, and the altar of Verdun. You can do a guided tour, visit the abbey’s historic 36 metre deep wine cellar and do wine tasting. Learn more in Vienna art wine tour .

Duration of trip: 3-4 hours

9. Burgenland

Should You Rent A Car?

There are a few things that speak for renting a car: First, Austrian drivers are generally considerate and won’t make your life hell. Second, the vast majority of our roads are in very good condition. Third, renting a car easy and there are also good deals on offer. In any case, before renting a car find out about driving and parking in Vienna and surroundings in my Car Rental Vienna guide.

Day Trips From Vienna: Reader Questions

Click below to see questions from other visitors, along with my responses…

Travel Vienna: Tour to Wachau Valley Day Trips From Vienna: Tour to Wachau Valley Hi Barbara, what an excellent website. My husband and I will be visiting Vienna from the 9th to the {dep} …

Wachau Valley Dinner Trains Day Trips from Vienna: Wachau Valley Dinner Trains My wife and I are going to be in Vienna in mid May. We read about dinner trains that go to the …

find out more about the best  Vienna Attractions go to What To Do In Vienna  – Must See and Do Tips By A Native explore my favourite  Hotels Vienna Austria  – Where I Would Stay If I Was A Tourist

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6 Quick & Easy Day Trips from Vienna by Train

Here are six day trips from Vienna by train, which I feel might be of interest to you when you visit the area. Vienna is obviously a cool city itself, but sometimes there’s curiosity driving me to find out more about local experiences or “what else is there” in the area.

Having spent the past three month in Vienna, I have had some opportunity to hop on the train a few times and explore locally. The area has a few points of interest such as castles and hiking trails. Further, it is incredibly easy and quick to explore neighbouring countries, such as Slovakia or the Czech Republic.

Sounds good? Then let me tell you everything I know about taking day trips from Vienna by train and share the cool and not so cool spots with you.

Table of Contents

What You Need to Know Before You Go

• All day trips from Vienna by train are under 2h of travel time
• Specifically with local experiences, English often is not offered or as easily accessible
• Experiences use Vienna Hauptbahnhof (HBF) in District 10/Quartier Belvedere as the starting point
• HBF (main station) is not to be confused with Vienna Mitte (Central)
• Experiences often prefer cash only, so make sure you have enough on you
• Direct connections, especially local ones, run more frequently on weekends rather than during the week
• Photography in Austria is often banned inside churches, castles and other grand historical buildings. This is to prevent & reduce the travel under the Social Media influence
• Train tickets in Austria using the Austrian train line ÖBB are quite expensive, whereas trips to Czech Republic and Slovakia on the RegioJet Student Service are extremely cheap
• Costs are correct as of September 2022

City Destination Allegiance (CityDNA) the leading network for city tourism organisations in Europe has recently awarded Vienna with the title of “best connected city in Europe” when it comes to train travel. 115 cities were benchmarked for touristic infrastructure including accommodation offering, CO2 emission and connectivity when it comes to travel. More key stats and results from the C ityDNA Travel Report can be found on the Vienna Tourism Board website (2023).

Criteria For Evaluating Day Trips from Vienna by Train

I used these 5 travel criteria to provide transparency and a clear guideline when comparing the day trips. It was important to me to apply the same aspects on each experience and evaluate them fairly, regardless if the experience was a city or castle visit.

• Costs: how much were train tickets and entrance fee?
• Efforts: what did it take to get here?
• Time Efficiency: has travel time exceeded exploring time?
• ROI: was there lots to do after I got here?
• Mood: was I happy, angry, annoyed after my visit and would I come here again?

Highly Recommended Day Trips From Vienna By Train

These day trips from Vienna by train were highly enjoyable to me. These are places which I would love to visit again and spend more time here.

Castle Franzensburg in Laxenburg

Located: 18km south of Vienna

This replica of a medieval knight’s castle was built by Emperor Franz Joseph I and lies within 280 hectares of parkland, Austria’s largest landscaped gardens. With this rather charming and playful castle, the Emperor brought his wildest childhood fantasies to life – even though knights and shiny armours were already long in the past.  

The castle in Neoclassicism style is only 200 years old and has everything a mediaeval castle has to offer. From detailed stained glass windows, hidden doors in the walls and a walk on the rooftops – the features are all impressive and serve the sole purpose of enjoyment and entertainment. Therefore, Franzensburg was not intended as a liveable place so there is no electricity, running water or a kitchen.

Costs : 4.90€ (one way) by train or the bus 200 from Vienna HBF. The train service has Traiskirchen Aspangbahn Bahnhof as its final destination. Costs at the castle were a bit annoying as there is no combi ticket and you have to purchase everything individually. Entrance to the park is 3€, visitor train return 4.50€, ferry 0.70€ and guided tours (11€ each) can quickly add up to 30€. 

Efforts : 30 minutes one way either on the train or the bus. The train takes four stops and then there is another 20-minute walk to the park gates. From the gates, it’s another 25-minute walk. There is a small guest train on site. If you take the bus, line 200 arrives & leaves from Wiener Straße. Either or, it’ll be another 45-50mins walk to the castle.

Time Efficiency : the travel time is approximately 30 minutes one way. Then you explore the extensive gardens and can take part in two 1h long guided tours around the castle. Exploring time definitely has the upper hand here over travelling time.

ROI : Laxenburg is a quaint and charming town itself and makes for a wonderful distraction whilst walking to the park. Once at the park entrance you can either walk to the castle and explore its parklands on the way or keep that for your return later. The park has many romantic elements such as pavilions, grottos, monuments and small functional buildings. 

Mood : I found Franzensburg an enchanting treasure trove even though it is technically an outrageous frivolity. There was much to see and many secrets to discover. It’s a toy castle and comes with all sorts of playful features. Of course, the castle is located in the middle of an artificial lake. During the building time of 30 years, the lake was added rather late, therefore the maximum depth is only 2 metres.

The tour on the roof revealed spectacular views over Vienna and the surrounding grounds. Emperor Franz was a hobby gardener who planted his favourite oak trees around the grounds. The castle itself is not overwhelmingly big but provides enough rooms to keep you engaged and occupied. From elaborate wooden ceilings to kitschy four-poster beds, shiny armours and delightful towers. There’s even a Juliet balcony replica here. On a sunny day, the many colourful glass windows displaying key scenes from the Habsburg monarchy bring the place even more to life. For me, this was a delightful visit. 

Bratislava in Slovakia

Located: 65km east of Vienna

The capital city of Slovakia since 1993 and part of the EU (2004), Bratislava is the third richest area in the EU. With approximately 660,000 inhabitants the city has a moderate centre which can easily be visited within a day. The Old Town has been extensively modernised and welcomes visitors with its gelato-coloured houses. Quaint streets and cafés, a gorgeous castle and the romantic Danube River, what’s not to love?

Costs : 4.90€ one way on the RegioJet bus. Please book in advance. Train tickets with ÖBB are approximately 11€ one way and use hlavná stanica as the final destination.

Efforts : this is a very easy and direct bus or train connection from Vienna. The bus leaves from the International bus terminal outside of Vienna HBF. The journey takes 90 minutes. The bus terminal in Bratislava is located within a brand new shopping centre. From here, it’s only a short walk into the historic Old Town centre. You can also take the ÖBB train which is a bit more expensive but services are more frequent and allow you to max out the day efficiently. The train journey is approximately 1h. The walk into town takes between 30-40 minutes.

Time Efficiency : I went twice to Bratislava and tested the bus and the train connection. By bus: I took the 9am service from Vienna to arrive in Bratislava at 10:30am. Then I explored until 5pm and took the return bus to Vienna. This gave me more than 6h of exploring time and exceeded the invested travel time of 3h. Overall the day was very enjoyable. By train: I booked a 9am service with my return booked for 7pm to max out the day effectively. The walk from the train station to central, however, is a bit longer and takes about 35 minutes.

ROI : Bratislava has a charming and very well-maintained Old Town. In the many quaint streets are cafés and cute houses. Have a look for the Coronation Route marked with golden crowns integrated into the pavement or visit the Blue Church. The castle is a must-visit, too. Here I would factor in at least 2h for the 85m ascent and walk around its grounds overlooking the town and the Danube. This is without a tour of the building. There are several viewpoints from the castle and you can see the UFO building, too. You’ll see that time will pass quickly. Bratislava can be extended to a weekend trip but I doubt it would engage me past a two to three-day stay. 

Bratislava was the coronation town of the Hungarian kings of the House of Habsburg between 1563-1830. 11 kings and 7 royal spouses were crowned at St Martin’s Cathedral, et alia Maria Theresa in 1741. 

Mood : I’m completely in love with Bratislava, especially on a sunny day strolling around is super enjoyable. The Old Town is beyond cute and the best bit: the town is not overrun by tourists. The locals can be hit-and-miss. Some seem to be upset if you speak English straight away but the majority are accommodating and friendly. The Old Town is clean, modern and manicured. Even if you don’t end up visiting a museum or doing a guided tour, just walking around and getting to know the place will fill the time easily. 

Brno in the Czech Republic

Located: 135km north of Vienna 

Brno, pronounced “burn-oooh”, is the Czech Republic’s second-largest city. A short train journey away from Vienna, the city scores with great coffee culture and historical sites. There are lots of interesting activities to do here that will fill your day with variety aplenty and keep you engaged. The town centre is not as manicured as Bratislava, but its local authentic charm will make you fall in love with Brno slowly but surely. 

Read More : How Brno Cafes & Coffee Culture Shaped The City Now & Then

Costs : 8-10€ (one way) on the RegioJet Student service train. 

Efforts : train services leave a few times per day and make this day trip from Vienna by train easily doable. The first service runs at 6:30am and you could max out the day by choosing a return at 6pm or take the last service at 9:30pm. The train is a direct connection and takes 80 minutes. From Brno’s train station Hlavní Nádraží it’s a ten-minute walk to the main square. The train is really just for transportation purposes so it’s not the cleanest or the best maintained. 

Time Efficiency : if you take the earliest service, you can max out the day to approximately 12h exploring time which exceeds the initial 3h travel time (return).

ROI : similar to Bratislava, Brno has a gorgeous Old Town. Whilst it may not be as manicured as Bratislava, Brno offers a variety of activities that can be done within a 1h time frame. Therefore your day exploring can cover a variety of historical places including the Ossuary & St James’ Church, the labyrinth under the vegetable market, the view from the Radnice Town Hall Tower, the main square and astronomical clock, the Capuchin Crypt or a visit to the Moravian Museum. The views from Špilberk Castle especially at sunset are unrivalled. And there’s, of course, Brno’s extensive coffee culture. Literally, every café is insanely gorgeous and Brno’s baristas are world-renowned for making excellent speciality coffee. 

Did You Know : the Ossuary is the second largest in the world after Paris. It was found in 2001 by accident during construction work on the St James’s Church. Yes, the church is dedicated to Apostle St James and therefore, this is a Camino site. It’s not recognised as an official site YET, but the guides running the Ossuary feel strongly connected to the Camino and you can even fetch a stamp here for your Credential. 

Mood : Brno is not only laid-back, but it is also an interesting place. At first sight, it may be a bit edgy but soon it’ll develop its charm. Part of the charm is the friendliness and directness of the locals. The Old Town isn’t as overrun as Prague and Brno has kept a flair of authenticity to it. There’s more to discover and Brno would keep me engaged for longer. It’s worth having a look at staying here for a few days. 

Average Day Trips From Vienna By Train

These destinations were good and engaging at the time of my visit, but I doubt I would be excited enough to go there again. They were good, but there are better day trips from Vienna by train waiting to be explored.

Roman Town of Carnuntum

Located: 43km east of Vienna

Excavation site of a former Roman city. Originally a winter camp, Carnuntum grew to city size between the 1st and 4th century AD. At its peak, it was home to 50,000 citizens, connected key trade routes of the Roman Empire and was an important military base. Today, only 0.5% of the original site is excavated. 

Carnuntum stretches over two villages, which lie 5km apart. In Bad Deutsch-Altenburg is the museum with Austria’s largest collection of Roman artefacts. There are also remains of a former amphitheatre here. The village of Petronell-Carnuntum shows excavations of a Roman quarter completed through additional reconstructions. A visit here includes public thermal baths, an Inn, several residential buildings and villas. Nearby are an old city gate and another amphitheatre.

Costs : 9.60€ train ticket one way, 12€ entrance to the site which is spread over two villages. 

Efforts : it is a 70-minute journey on a direct train, which only runs directly on the weekend. Check S7 (direction Wolfsthal) leaving from Rennweg, which is a short walk from HBF. The train station for Petronell-Carnuntum has a “middle of nowhere” feel to it. The signage is sparse. Keep straight and then turn left on the main road to get to the quarter site. The second part of the site is located in the next village, a 5km hike away. You can walk it or take the train to the next stop. However, the train only runs once per hour. I would advise taking the train from Vienna first to Bad Deutsch-Altenburg, checking out the museum and then walking over to the Roman quarter in Petronell-Carnuntum. Alternatively, you can rent a bike from the train station and cycle over to the next village. 

Time Efficiency : travel time exceeded exploring time slightly, especially if you decide to walk between the two villages.

ROI : the Roman quarter takes a good hour to explore. It is well kept and there is a visitor centre with a small exhibition. Nearby you can see the remains of an amphitheatre and the old city gate. Those are free to visit and roam about. Overall, there’s no strict tour and many parts are accessible for you to walk in and around rather than closed off as it is usually the case.

The second site in Bad Deutsch-Altenburg is quite a walk away but there’s another amphitheatre ruin here. It is the last standing of the military part of Carnuntum city. A well-curated museum completes the experience. Efforts have been made to present the exhibition in English, but unfortunately not consistent throughout; alternatively, you can fetch an informative English guidebook for 1€. Overall, this day trip from Vienna by train will keep you busy for the entire day. 

Mood : the quarter part is the main site and attracts the most visitors. It’s not overrun and overall a rather relaxed point of interest. There’s also a café here overlooking the grounds. The Carnuntum village is mostly self-guided, manageable and on a sunny day, it is no hassle to walk to the second site. I doubt I would do it when it is colder or drizzling. Therefore, I would prefer to start with the museum in Bad Deutsch-Altenburg first and then fetch a bike and cycle to the Roman quarter. 

Poor Day Trips from Vienna by Train

These are destinations which didn’t impress me and have put me off from visiting again. They are pretty much destinations I have ticked off my list but I wouldn’t bother coming here again. This is my personal experience and therefore, contains subjective views. You can, of course, decide for yourself, if you’d like to pay these destinations a visit.

Castle Kreuzenstein in Leobendorf

Located: 32km north of Vienna

Oh, another medieval castle just outside of Vienna? Ah don’t get too excited, unfortunately, Castle Kreuzenstein was rebuilt from scratch after it was destroyed in 1645 by the Swedes. The castle as it stands today is only 200 years old and is privately owned by the family of Count Wilczek. Wilczek was a rich local thanks to his coal mining in Silesia. Today, the castle is used as a filming location and you may have seen it in The Quest or The Witcher. Nicolas Cage is a regular celeb filming here.

Costs : 6.10€ train ticket one way. 15€ entrance to the castle by guided tour only. The nearby falconry costs another 12€.  

Efforts : there are regular S3 & S4 services out of Vienna (direction Korneuburg) which take approximately 40 minutes to reach the village of Leobendorf where Castle Kreuzenstein is located. Then there’s a 45-minute hike and ascent to the castle. The return train to Vienna is the problem, as there are only two services per hour. A less frequent service means waiting time which stretches your day trip unnecessarily and there’s nothing to do at the small train station. 

Please note : in Greater Vienna, there’s a LeobENdorf (North) and LeobERSdorf (South). Confusing AF at times.

Time Efficiency : the travel time exceeded the exploring time, as there were only two services back to Vienna. Be prepared for some waiting time. The guided tour at the castle only lasts for about 45 minutes and afterwards, there’s little to do. You can walk around the castle’s dramatic exteriors and see its moat which keeps you occupied for another ten minutes. The falconry is only open for its shows which have irregular showing times, so check these in advance if you’re interested in visiting. The Leobendorf village is unspectacular and most shops are closed outside of the wine season in September/October. 

ROI : the castle is only accessible by a guided tour which starts every full hour and lasts for roughly 45 minutes. You see a medieval knights’ hall, kitchen, Europe’s largest privately-owned weapon collection, a bedroom, a staircase and a trophy room. Whilst the tour guide was friendly, I found the tour could have been better and more informative. The ticket price of 15€ is steep but it is, unfortunately, a privately-owned experience. There are no bathrooms or a café here either which is a shame, as there is space and facilities available but currently not in use. 

Mood : please note, this is a privately-owned castle run by family members. As such, the curation is clumsy and at times makes you feel unwelcome. There are tons of “forbidden” signs and “do not touch” warnings plastered around the place. The information provided by the tour guide is ok but not plentiful enough to justify the high entrance fee. The exterior of the castle is gorgeous but you can’t shake off the feeling that this is a more style-over-substance experience. Overall, I didn’t enjoy this day trip from Vienna by train as much as I would have loved to. 

Signs of a Poorly run Privately-Owned Experience : – often way overpriced – poorly & clumsily curated exhibits – weird obsession with mannequins – family members act as “guides” and provide little information – when faced with criticism, the owners often take offence & post unprofessional replies on e.g. Google reviews – lots of “forbidden” and “do not touch” signs everywhere – you’re unwelcome but your money is not – amateurish processes e.g. handling of queues, no marketing, basic 90s-looking website – no photography – broken/outdated facilities – financial blame, resentment and finger-pointing by the owners towards commercialised competitor experiences – insecurities towards “the big” institutions e.g. National Trust

Melk Abbey in the Wachau Valley

Located: 88km west of Vienna

Melk Abbey is a stunning Benedictine abbey in the Wachau Valley. Often included in a Danube cruise but you can, of course, visit it individually. Founded in 1089 and run primarily as a school, it was extended to a grammar school in the 12th century. Its library has a large manuscript collection and hosts an equally impressive gemstone collection, too. The iconic Baroque façade of the abbey built in the early 18th century was extensively restored over the past 40 years. Today, the abbey is the resting place of Saint Coloman of Stockerau and the remains of several members of the House of Babenberg, Austria’s first ruling dynasty. 

Costs : 20€ train ticket one way with the ÖBB. You have to change at St Pölten and take a regional train to Melk. The ticket for the abbey without a tour costs 13€. 

Efforts : the train journey is approximately 70 minutes and even though you have to take two connections, it feels quick and swift. You take a train first to St Pölten and then change to a regional service which runs seamlessly. The walk from Melk’s train station to the abbey takes approximately 20 minutes. Train services back to Vienna run frequently but watch out for the final destination. Often they end at Hütteldorf or Westbahnhof, which is fine, but add another 30 minutes to the journey if you need to get back to HBF. 

Time Efficiency : trains run frequently to Melk and back to Vienna, so you won’t be stranded here. However, I found myself finishing my explorations after 2h and I struggled to keep myself busy for another hour. Therefore my exploring time and travel time balanced themselves out. 

ROI : I had my train connections pre-booked which gave me a 4h time window for exploring. When I got to Melk Abbey I found myself finished after 40 minutes. I spent another 25 minutes roaming the gardens and then went back for another self-guided tour inside the abbey. There are a few rooms with exhibits but I didn’t find them curated well enough to keep me engaged for long. The gemstone collection is impressive, but then I must have missed its point of a display in a Benedictine abbey. The annexed library and Marbled Hall are impressive, too but you won’t dwell there forever. The Church and the 15-minute service were good but again a rather short experience. The gardens are huge but can be walked within 25 minutes as there’s not much to do there. 

Mood : I found the staff exceptionally rude & argumentative, especially at the ticket office and later on at the main exhibition. Whilst the interiors are impressive, most parts of this massive abbey are closed off to the public. The information displayed isn’t as engaging as I’d thought it’d be, leaving out an educational effect and therefore the visit felt less inspiring. The town itself is very small with only a handful of cafés. Overall it felt like a pensioner’s rip-off. They get dropped off here during a Danube cruise, the cafés are expensive with Vienna prices and the abbey can only engage you for a short while as it gets boring real quickly. I couldn’t wait to get back to Vienna.

FAQs for Your Day Trips from Vienna by Train

I understand this is quite a lengthy post and you may have some quick questions about day trips from Vienna by train. You can, of course, always come back to any section of my post and read in more detail what you’d need for your trip. If you have questions or need help, please get in touch and I’m happy to assist. 

How much do Day Trips from Vienna by Train cost?

Day trips from Vienna by train have varied in their costs but all six introduced in this post stayed under 100€. Travelling within Austria is rather pricey. However, you can save a few Euros when you book tickets in advance. The in-advance lead time can be as short as two weeks and you’d still get a good deal. Cheap alternatives are trips to nearby Slovakia and the Czech Republic.

Is Austria solo travel friendly?

Yes, Austria has been friendly towards me as a solo female traveller and I felt safe on all of my trips. Know that English isn’t as common in local and rural areas and you may want to have a few German phrases at hand.

Is it easy to move around in Vienna?

Vienna is well-connected to its neighbouring countries and has several train stations to serve the demand. The Hauptbahnhof (HBF aka main station) serves mostly connections to Slovakia, Czech Republic and Hungary, whereas Westbahnhof (west station) runs services towards Salzburg and Linz more frequently. The city also has a great bus and tram network. It’s quite easy to move around and you can be across town within a 1h time frame. All are very accessible and manageable. The only confusion is with Vienna Hauptbahnhof (main station) and Vienna Mitte (central). The latter runs the costly direct airport train and many tourists have fallen victim to the translation. Usually, a central station is the main station but in this case, Vienna is ambiguous. Vienna Mitte (central) is not the main station. Please watch out when booking your train from the airport.

Thank You so much and if you enjoyed this post you can always support my research and Buy Me a Coffee .

Enjoyed the day trips from Vienna by train? You may also like these local explorations:

• How Authentic are Coffee Houses in Vienna Today?
• Beautiful Bike Tour on the Ecumenical Pilgrimage Route in Germany
• Is The Eurostar London to Brussels Train Link Worth It?
• A Complete 4 Day Vienna Itinerary For First Time Visitors
• Local, Unusual, Underrated: The City Hiking Trails Vienna

About SoloTravelStory

Blogs about her travel adventures in the world from her London home.

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Wonderfully written, I enjoyed reading this so much. Don’t apologise for your views, negative or otherwise, as for me they are essential in seeing a place through someone’s eyes before I get there. … I can always make up my own mind on the sights. I’d never have thought of such an engaging post, it really shows how easy it is to get to several places when you are based in one place and therefore do not have to confine yourself to just where you are. I like the list of warning signs that a place is not so good and privately owned – I’ve experienced that myself and the idiosyncrasies that are thrown up as a result. The 5-point criteria plan is just what I need and so well researched. I often think of how long it will take to get there and back and what am I actually going to get out of it – this works so well for my way of thinking too. Great read.

I love your criteria for selecting day trips! What a great way of looking at them! I’ve never been to Vienna, but I do agree – exploring outside the city is just as important!

Vienna is so well-connected and has an amazing rail network. I took the train from Vienna to Budapest but it was very expensive. I’m glad to see there are other much cheaper options for day trips because I was impressed by the quality of service and punctuality of trains.

Paul (Paul Passing Through)

This is a helpful list for those visiting Vienna or the region in general. I’d love to visit Brno or Bratislava when we’ll be there over Christmas, but I doubt we’ll have time. I’ll refer back to this list if we end up having a day to spare. I’ll definitely keep it in mind in the future when we visit the region again!

I had to laugh at some of the things in your list of privately-owned destinations. The thing about the mannequins cracked me up haha I always groan when I see mannequins. They’re so tacky and detract from the experience. There was a famine house we visited in Ireland that had several. The experience is good enough without them – why the need to include them?!

Vienna is a place I’ve looked at a lot recently so this was super helpful as I noticed it didn’t look like it was too far to get to some other places. More impressive is that you can easily get to more than one other country as a day trip – the perfect base in my opinion. Too bad to hear they weren’t all winners but really appreciate the thorough reviews and how you rated them

Loved this detailed post on day trips from Vienna. I feel like if someone is traveling and decided to stay in Vienna for a few months (like you did), they have a lot of options in terms of day trips and activities. It’s always fun to explore other areas.

I love travelling by train so I’d be in my element in Vienna, especially as it’s so easy to have a quick day trip to a neighbouring country. I think it’s great how you’ve used the same criteria for rating them too – it’s just missing some mannequin photos!! 😉

I love all these day trip ideas… Bratislava is amazing! I also love that you have an emotional metric in your research 🥰

Thanks for this honest review! It’s helpful to see your criteria and explanations, as this helps me understand your thinking and make up my own mind. Bratislava is a place I’d love to visit 🙂

Tiffany Pence

I love Vienna. It’s a beautiful city! But I haven’t ventred outside the city so these are great tips. I especially loved your honesty about Melk Abbey. I’m always wary about places that seem to only cater to a cruise crowd. It’s good to know.

I didn’t realise how well connected Vienna was. It’s a place we would love to visit and it’s great to know how many other towns and cities particularly Bratislava and Brno, which we have also long wanted to see – are within easy reach. It was good to get your views on which trips were great and which didn’t work for you. A great post with loads of practical info too. Thank you.

Great post – I love that you provide the good with the bad, it is so helpful. I also like the criteria you’ve used, Bratislava and Brno would be my choice, for sure.

It sounds like Vienna makes a great home base for exploring other areas of Europe, and I love that! A 2 hr train ride that transports to new places is exactly what I look for to break up your holiday in one destination. How creative of you to identify your criteria and share your honest views of each of these day trips by train. Top of my list would be to go to Bratislava in Slovakia, so glad you highly recommended it too!

Eleanna | Flying Fork Tales

I’m so glad you liked Bratislava because I was considering it as a day trip destination from Vienna. It so happens I’ll probably have a day to spare on my Vienna trip (since it will be my second time there). From the photos and videos that I’ve seen online Bratislava looks really pretty but it’s better when a friend recommends it. Thank you xx

Riana Ang-Canning

What a great post! I love that instead of just a list of day trips, you categorize them and give so many helpful details to assist people in planning the best day trip for them. I’ve been to Brno and Bratislava so just have Castle Franzensburg left on your list of best day trips. Excited to cross it off on a future visit!

Lyn (aka Jazz)

Fabulous post and very timely! I was able to share it with a friend heading to Vienna next month.

I really like how you gave us your criteria in evaluating, it made comparisons very clear. Castle Franzenburg is really intriguing and sounds like a place I would definitely want to explore. Secret doors and rooftop walks play a big part in my castle fantasies.

I have been waiting for someone to post something like this for a long time. So happy you did it Carolin. This is such a timely post as we are planning to visit Vienna very soon and wondering about other possible places to see outside the city. I always thought that Vienna has one of the most friendly city-railway systems and to read about the convenience of hopping from one train to another makes it even more alluring to step out of the city for a day trip 😉 #flyingbaguette

Jan – https://flyingbaguette.com/

Seems like Vienna is a perfect gateway to several amazing destinations around. Castle Franzensburg looks quite picturesque with it’s beautiful surroundings. And Brno of course is a heaven for coffee lovers and just the place for me.

Flavia @latinatraveler

I love how many day trip options you offer! I’m someone who loves having a base even when I travel so using Vienna as a jump off point to visit other places really is great. Thanks for going into so much detail regarding prices and companies to use to get from point A to B. Will def be using this info in the future!

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7 Beautiful Day Trips From Vienna (Within Austria)

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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 Salzburg .

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.

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

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.

#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 .

#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. Melk 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

Have you secured your accommodation in Vienna yet? If you’re still looking for a hotel, you can find some excellent deals right here . This link will direct you to my preferred hotel search and booking platform, complete with a map to assist you in finding the most conveniently located hotel for your needs. Please note that this is an affiliate link, which means I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you if you decide to book through it. It’s a fantastic way to support WanderInEurope, allowing us to create more helpful guides like this one for your future adventures. Thank you for your support!

Geography is a compelling reason to venture west of Vienna . Nestled closer to the awe-inspiring Alps, some of the destinations I’m about to share could provide that special experience you’re seeking, making your Austrian trip even more unforgettable. But before you go there, make you that you’ve already thought about including Vienna’s must-see attractions into your itinerary listed below! 🙂

• Vienna’s beautiful churches like Karlskirche , Peterskirche , and Stephansdom . They’re the largest, most distinctive and historical churches in the city. 
• Vienna’s impressive palaces , most notably Hofburg Imperial Palace , Schonbrunn Palace , and Belvedere Palace . They aren’t only a palace, though. These palaces also have museums in them!
• Vienna’s unmissable museums : Kunsthistorisches Museum and the Museum of Military History . They are a museum inside a palatial building. You better see them!
• Vienna’s special attraction : Danube Tower . It’s the tallest building in all of Austria. A revolving restaurant and coffee shop sits on top. Perfect for watching the sunset!

You might also want to wander along Ringstrasse and explore Old Town Vienna first to pick up some fascinating little gems ; stumble upon architectural marvels ; see stunning artistic interiors ; and visit free-to-visit attractions along the way.

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Visiting Vienna

Day trips from Vienna

If your visit to Vienna lasts long enough to tire of coffee and Sachertorte (is that even possible?), then you might want to escape on a day trip outside the city.

• How far is Vienna from…
• Vienna tours

Klosterneuburg Abbey

• Carnuntum Roman reconstructions
• Schloss Hof estate
• Organised day trips & tours to Hallstatt, Budapest etc.

Day trip suggestions

Even if you don’t want to hire a car *, then trains, buses and boats get you to many places outside the city quickly and easily. This includes travel to other countries and organised tours leaving from Vienna.

One of the joys of the city, for example, is the close proximity to Slovakia, Hungary, and Czechia.

I’m working to bring you helpful articles on travelling to all these places and others more local. Here my tips so far…

(The Salzach river flows through the city)

It takes just over 2 hours to reach Salzburg by rail from Vienna, with frequent departures. So the city certainly qualifies as a day trip destination.

The Salzach river runs alongside the beautiful old town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander between the historic buildings on the famous Getriedegasse street, for example, then pop into Mozart’s birthplace.

(Salzburg and Vienna have a tacit agreement to share Mozart; you might argue that Salzburg gave birth to the man, while Vienna gave birth to the legend.)

• More info: How to visit Salzburg from Vienna

(The abbey looks down over the River Melk)

The small town of Melk lies about a one-hour train journey west of Vienna. Perched on a hill above the old town is the magnificent Stift Melk, an abbey rebuilt in the 1700s with a history that goes back over 1000 years.

Stift Melk has much to offer the visitor and all wrapped up in remarkable Baroque architectural splendour. Ticketed parts include a museum, a library of the “you never want to leave” kind, the abbey church, a garden & park, and views across the Danube valley.

Figure on two to three hours for looking around. Combined with lunch on site or in Melk itself, and you can be back in Vienna for late afternoon coffee.

• More info: How to visit Melk abbey from Vienna

(Another glorious abbey with baroque elements)

Another abbey and another small town, except Klosterneuburg is just a couple of minutes outside Vienna by bus or train. The abbey there dates back to the early 12th century.

Stift Klosterneuburg has a small treasury with some quite astonishing exhibits within, including the archducal coronet from the early 1600s.

A tour takes you into a Baroque wing built for Emperor Charles VI in the 1730s, but also the church, cloisters, and chapels. Much of the old architecture remains visible. A particular highlight is the Verdun Altar, one of the most prestigious pieces of medieval art in the world.

• More info: Klosterneuburg Abbey

(I should get a better photo!)

Austria is 99% mountains, 1% chocolate. (Possibly.)

The Alps stretch almost the entire length of the country, only petering out just before they reach Vienna. Which means the mountains are reasonably close to the city.

Vienna even has a “local” ski resort: Semmering is near enough to make a day’s skiing a reality, and you can still be back in time for dinner.

• More info: How to visit the Alps from Vienna

Roman Carnuntum

(The Roman reconstructions)

Back in the mists of time, Vienna was Vindobona : one of the chain of locations established to guard Rome’s frontier against those pesky German tribes.

Remarkably, follow the Danube downriver out of Vienna for about 40km and you reach the location of an even bigger Roman town and military base.

Carnuntum is where, for example, the 14th and 15th Legions kept those German tribes at bay (think the opening scenes of Gladiator ).

This architectural park has various historical sites to visit, including extensive reconstructions, a museum, and two amphitheatres. And, for some reason, an awful lot of ground squirrels.

• More info: Carnuntum Roman archeological park

Schloss Hof House & Gardens

(The view from outside)

Two Viennese palaces and a city palais proved too little for Prince Eugene of Savoy, a man whose modesty seems to have grown smaller as his wealth grew bigger.

The Baroque Schloss Hof might be considered Eugene’s “little place in the country”. If by “little place” you mean a large estate.

Fill a day trip with a palace to tour, gardens to admire, and a set of outbuildings full of surprises (wandering turkeys, Lipizzaner horses, and hidden rose gardens, to name but three). Lots for kids to do, too.

• More info: Schloss Hof

Organised day trips & tours

(Salzburg looks pretty good, too)

Various tour operators have special one-day excursions that leave from the centre of Vienna to popular destinations, taking the hassle out of travel arrangements.

These link to my affiliate partner, Tiqets, but a quick Google will throw up various alternative suppliers, too…

• Hallstatt *: one of Austria’s most picturesque towns on the banks of a lake and at the foot of the mountains. The area is a UNESCO world heritage site.
• Salzburg *: take an organised bus tour to Mozart’s city of birth, if you prefer to let others worry about travel planning. Includes more than a pinch of The Sounds of Music
• Stift Melk * visit the ancient abbey via bus. Includes a boat trip down the Danube in warmer seasons and a wander around picturesque Krems or Dürnstein (where they imprisoned King Richard II) in the colder months
• Bratislava *: another city on the Danube, the capital of Slovakia is just over an hour away and reachable by bus and boat
• Budapest *: the capital of Hungary and another gorgeous former Habsburg city. Unlike Vienna, the Danube passes right through the city centre

Last modified: May 14, 2024

Top 5 Easy Day Trips from Vienna

Posted on Published: March 30, 2019  - Last updated: December 4, 2023

Categories Austria , Europe , Travel

Vienna is a good base city to choose if you want to explore a bit of Austria and even it’s surrounding countries. The city has an accessible train and bus station that’ll get you pretty much anywhere you want to go, but you can also rent a car if you’d prefer a bit more freedom. 

My top 5 day trips from Vienna are Mödling, the Wachau Valley, Salzburg, Budapest, and Hallstatt. You can also travel to Prague in one day from Vienna, but that one’s a bit harder to do in one day.

Psst! This blog post contains affiliate links in it which sends me a bit of extra money if you use them… at no extra cost to you!

Plan your Austrian getaway with these tools!

Book plane tickets: skyscanner.com Book hotels:   Booking.com Rent a car: Enterprise Vienna Tours:   Viator.com Digital & Printable Travel Planner :  Etsy

Staying in Vienna? You might also like… A Guide To Vienna Districts | Tips For Travelling To Vienna

A Bit About Vienna Austria

Vienna is one of my all time favourite European cities to visit. There’s more than enough to see in the city itself, but also in the surrounding areas for an easy city escape. There’s everything from history to art, outdoor adventures, and some of the most incredible views I’ve ever seen!

If you are visiting Vienna Austria for the first time, check out my guide to Vienna’s districts  to know where to stay and some important tips to know before visiting Vienna.

How To Go On Day Trips From Vienna

There are 4 easy ways to go on day trips from Vienna: by train, bus, car, or an organized tour. We used all methods of transport besides for booking an organized tour. 

The method of transport you choose will depend on where you’re going, but ultimately what you’re most comfortable with. 

Vienna Day Trips By Bus

Vienna has quite a large  International Bus Terminal . Although the bus terminal is a bit further outside the city centre, it’s actually quite easy to get to. There’s a Ubhan stop at the bus station (Erdberg) and many city buses stop here along their routes.

The main bus companies, Flixbus ,  Nomago , and  Globtour , all go to the International Bus Terminal. Taking the bus on a day trip from Vienna is definitely one of the cheaper options for travel. 

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Taking The Train From Vienna

The main train station in Vienna is the Westbanhof. It’s on the border of the 7th and 11th district. Depending on where you’re coming from in Vienna, you have a few ways to get to Westbanhof. It should be quite easy though, there’s a tram, bus, and Ubahn stop near the train station. 

We used the train to get to Salzburg and the Wachau Valley from Vienna. We always bought our tickets  online  beforehand, but you can also buy them once you’re there. The train is one of the more moderate priced travel options. It’s going to be more expensive than the bus, but still cheaper than renting a car. 

See updated train schedules .

Renting A Car & Driving In Austria

Driving is probably the most expensive option out of the three but it also gives you the most flexibility on your Vienna day trips. Around Austria you’ll find all the typical car rental companies from Thrifty, Hertz, and  Enterprise  and even smaller ones like EuropeCar .  We found the cheapest car rental service in our area that was within walking distance to us – it happened to be Avis .

When renting a car, it’s important to ask if you can’t drop the car off after they close. This is important to know so you don’t have to cut your day trip short to rush back to Vienna.

Be aware that renting a car in Vienna Austria was definitely not a zero stress mode of transportation. Unlike taking the bus or train, we were never worried about missing our way home, and we weren’t ever stuck in one location. But! Driving in a foreign country is not for everyone. 

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The streets are narrow and winding, people drive REALLY fast on the highways, and all the signs are in German! Not to mention you have to worry about where you’re going to park when you arrive to each new destination.

Renting a car in Vienna Austria is one of the more expensive modes of transportation, but it does give you some added freedom that you don’t have with a bus or train. 

Vienna Day Tours: Going On An Organized Trip From Vienna

The most expensive Vienna day trips you can go on is to book an organized tour. Although it may cost you the most, it’s also the least stressful. The entire day is already booked and organized for you. 

There are several companies offering a variety of Vienna day trips to go on. I didn’t go on any  Viator Vienna day trips , but I’ve gone with Viator before and never had any complaints.  

Sightseeing Vienna  also offers select day trips from Vienna!

Book An Organized Tour From Vienna Through Viator

See more day trip tours from Vienna here .

Top 5 Easy Day Trips From Vienna

1. mödling – half day trips from vienna.

Mödling is in Austria about 30 minutes away from the Vienna by train. If you’re not used to the long hauls of day trips, this is a good one to start with (trust me, day trips are TIRING!). They have two main attractions to visit in Mödling: Liechtenstein Castle and Seegrotte.

Liechtenstein Castle  are ruins from the 12th-century. You also get access to the grounds which include the Vienna woods. Or you can go underground to the Seegrote lake, which is in a cave. Find more information here . 

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2. The Wachau Valley

If the weather is right, this is one of my FAVOURITE easy day trips from Vienna (and I think ever!). The Wachau valley is in lower Austria along the Danube River. The valley spans from the town of Melk to Krems. They’re mainly known for their wineries and picturesque towns. And the best part is it’s only about 50 minutes away from Vienna by train.

There are no shortage of activities to do here, but you will need a way to get from town to town. We biked from Melk to Krems, stopping along the way. It was one of the best Vienna day trips that we went on.

There are three main towns that you’ll want to visit in the Wachau Valley, Melk, Durnstein, and Krems. They’re all pretty small that you it may be hard to spend an entire day in just one of them. So, if it’s not biking weather, you may want to consider driving so you’re able to get to each town in the Wachau Valley. 

You can either decide to visit the main attractions in each town but you can also go there for the day to enjoy some local wine.

Go On A Tour Through The Wachau Valley

Book this organized bike tour from Vienna to the Wachau Valley.

If you’re more interested in discovering the Wachau Valley, this tour takes you to all the main highlights along the Danube, bike free!

Or go on this wine tasting tour from Vienna through the Wachau Valley instead.

See more organized tours with Viator.

In the town of Melk, atop a cliff overlooking the Danube, is the Melk Abbey . It’s one of UNESCO’s world cultural heritage sites. This is where the Benedictines (monks that follow the Rule of Saint Benedict) lived. They offer tours of the Abbey, and you’re free to wander the gorgeous gardens. 

You can also head to the town of Durnstein to  visit Durnstein Castle  where King Richard was imprisoned. I will warn you though, it’s a bit of a walk up to the top, but the view is worth it. And it’s free! 

Krems is the fifth largest city in Lower Austria so if you’re looking to spend your day in one location, Krems is where you should go. The are trains directly from Vienna to Krems as well. 

As I mentioned, a great way to see the Wachau Valley is to rent bikes and ride from Melk to Krems .

You might also be interested in reading…

How To Bike From Melk To Krems in Austria

3. Salzburg

Salzburg is about 2 1/2 to 3 hours by train from Vienna, so it also makes an easy day trip. Despite its small size, Salzburg is actually known for quite a few things.

For starters, it’s where Mozart was born. They’ve turned his childhood home into a museum  you can visit.

It’s also where the Sound of Music was filmed – and took place. There’s a great half day Sound of Music Tour (if you’re interested). It takes you to the major spots from the movie which includes going up into the Austrian Alps.

Vienna To Salzburg Organized Tours

Salzburg is also home to Fortress Hohensalzburg. It’s one of the largest medieval castles in Europe. You can tour the castle for some in-depth history, and because it sits on top of a hill you get an outstanding view.

I recommend paying for the tram ticket up – it’s quite steep if you decide to walk it. We made that mistake…

For more information, you can read my Salzburg city guide. 

Plan A Day Trip To Salzburg

4. Day Trip From Vienna To Budapest

Get out of Austria for a bit, only about a 3-hour bus ride away  you can visit Budapest in Hungary!

There’s so much to see here in just one day that I recommend going on a free  walking tour  that’ll take you to all the main spots (see why I love walking tours so much , especially free ones!).

You have to make a stop at their infamous Szechenyi Thermal Baths  to relax in the afternoon.  Just make sure to pack your bathing suit and flip flops.

Budapest also has a great nightlife so if you can, try to get a later bus back. Read my full guide here . 

Budapest To Vienna Organized Tours

For more Budapest organized tours, click here .

5. Day Trip To Hallstatt From Vienna

If you’ve heard anything about Hallstatt it’s that it’s like a fairytale town. And let me tell you, they’re not lying. This town does not seem real.

It’s just like out of a storybook. The homes are painted in vibrant colours. It’s hidden away by giant mountains that surround it. And it overlooks a peaceful lake onto the vast mountainous landscape.

Unfortunately, it’s beauty comes at a cost. The mountains that surround it make it a little bit harder to get to. We found the quickest and easiest way to get there was actually to drive, which is a bit over 3 hours away.

If you aren’t comfortable renting a car and driving from Vienna to Hallstatt, I’d recommend  booking an organized tour . This way you have nothing to worry about!

Organized Tours To Hallstatt From Vienna

Simplify your travel to Hallstatt by booking an organized tour from Vienna!

This small-group full day tour from Viator takes you to all the main highlights of Hallstatt. So you can enjoy the beauty without all the stress!

For more Hallstatt organized tours, click here .

Driving there was okay, albeit a bit scary driving down the narrow road on the mountain at times. But we had no trouble parking once we were there ( more on our day trip from Vienna to Hallstatt ).

There are a few activities to do once you’re there but above all you have to go for the picture-perfect spot. Follow the path along the water all the way to the edge of town. Look behind you to see the reflection of the church and mountains on the water.

You can also make your way to the top of the mountain for more incredible views! Once you’re here, you can actually go inside the mountain and  learn about salt mining ! 

How To See Hallstatt In One Day From Vienna: The Ultimate Guide

Honourable Mention: Vienna Day Trips To Prague

Prague, in the Czech Republic, is relatively close to Vienna Austria so it can be done in a day if you really want to go there. But I’d say it’s a bit of a stretch. It’s about a 4-hour drive away. Just imagine, 8 hours of driving… IN ONE DAY, plus still have the energy to tour when you’re there.

If this is on your bucket list I recommend going on an organized day trip for this day trip from Vienna, like Viator . That way you won’t waste any time trying to figure out where you are and what to do. They offer quite a few day trips from Vienna.

Vienna To Prague Organized Tours

Day Trip Amazon Essentials

Related Posts

• 7 Things I Wish I Knew Before Travelling To Vienna
• Discover The Wachau Valley: Bike From Melk To Krems
• Day Trip To Budapest From Vienna
• How To Get From Vienna To Hallstatt
• Visit Salzburg in One Day From Vienna

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tiffany roxxx

Saturday 18th of September 2021

Loved this! I grew up in Vienna, so I was eager to see your recommendations and they're all so lovely.

Oh so glad to hear that! Thank you :D

Monday 1st of March 2021

Trip inspiration! I'd love to visit Vienna, and take any of these side trips!

Tuesday 2nd of March 2021

I hope you visit one day, Vienna is so amazing :D :D

Great post! I love Vienna so much; it is my favorite city I've ever visited. Next time I visit, I'll have to go on some of these day trips!

Me too! There's just such a unique charm about it that I love! Plus day trip opportunities are always a nice bonus for a nice change of scenery

Sunday 28th of February 2021

Great guide! I love Salzburg! If possible, I would really recommend at least two full days in Salzburg over a day, especially during the Christmas market season. I need to visit Hallstatt too! It looks so charming.

I'll definitely have to go back during Christmas! Going to an Austrian Christmas market is on my bucket list :D

Great ideas for the day trips. Hallstatt and Wachau Valley look so dreamy.

They really are! I'd go back to either in a heartbeat :D :D

10 Fun Things To Do In Vienna with Teens

D o you ever dream of exploring Austria while riding bikes along the Danube? How about eating a piece of the world-famous Demel's chocolate mousse cake or discovering the magic of Vienna with teens?

Is Vienna worth visiting?

Yes! You'll find that Vienna is home to world-class museums, magnificent cathedrals, a hopping cafe culture, the Opera, and architecture that is second to none.

3 Days in Vienna with Teens? Start With an Audio Tour

If you DO happen to be traveling in Vienna with teens, you may wish to buy two pieces of chocolate mousse cake!

If you only have 3 days in Vienna to explore, you'll want to get started right away.

On our first afternoon in Vienna, Austria, our oldest daughter was sick and our middle daughter just needed some downtime. Sometimes travel is like that—travel with teenagers especially—and you just have to roll with the punches.

Chris and I set out to explore and discover the best views in Vienna with our youngest daughter, Kristen, for the afternoon. We ventured out with the voice of Rick Steves in our ears.

Rick offers three FREE separate audio tours for Vienna:

• Vienna City Walk
• St. Stephen's Cathedral Tour
• Ringstrasse Tram Tour

We took the Ringstrasse Tram Tour and started our audio tour by hopping onto Tram #2 as it circled the city center.

The Ringstrasse, or the Ring, was designed in the Habsburg era with the intent to connect the outlying town with the imperial center.

You'll need to switch to Tram #1 halfway through the tour, but it is a nice relaxing way to discover unique things to do in Vienna with teens. Especially if your travels and adventure are often go, go, go to see as much as possible. Some of the important sites that you will learn about are:

• Café Sacher and their famous dessert
• Neuer Markt
• Dorotheergasse
• Plague Column
• Kohlmarkt & Demel Bakery
• Michaelerplatz
• The Hofburg Palace and the Imperial Apartments, Spanish Riding School, Treasury

Out of all the things we saw and experienced while exploring Vienna that day (and on subsequent days with all three of our girls), these are the top 10 places to visit in Vienna with teens that we would recommend to you (especially if you only have a 3 days in Vienna to spend touring the city).

>> Related: How to Give a Travel Adventure to Your Family as a Surprise

Top 10 Things to Do in Vienna with Teens

1. st. stephen's cathedral.

St. Stephen's Cathedral , often considered the symbol of Vienna, is a magnificent structure. The interior is lavishly decorated with columns, altars, and an impressive organ.

Entrance to the cathedral is free, though you can purchase tickets for a guided audio tour . Book your tickets online in advance for additional activities which include a visit to the catacombs, taking the elevator to the top of the north tower, climbing the 343 steps to the Steffl Tower (south tower)—the panoramic view from the south tower is worth the climb and offers some of the best views in Vienna.

2. St. Peter's Church

St. Peter's sits in the heart of Vienna; if you are a fan of Baroque architecture and art, this beautiful church is a must-see while touring Vienna. St. Peter's is a working church, however, it is free to visit and open daily. Be mindful of appropriate dress and behavior.

The church hosts a variety of concerts . Some are free (with donation) and others require a ticket. With the popularity of the concerts, you'll certainly want to get your ticket in advance.

How many days in Vienna should you plan for your visit? Enough to be able to add a concert to your itinerary!

3. Michaelerplatz

Enter the Michaelerplatz, the historic city-center of Vienna, and you'll feel as though you have stepped back in time as you enjoy some of the best views in Vienna as well. On one end of the square you'll find a wing of the Hofburg Palace Complex and to your right the Palais Herberstein. Continue circling around to see the Loos House, St. Michael's Church, and Roman excavations.

As suggested by our Rick Steves Audio Tour, we saw St. Stephen’s church, ate ice cream, and then later enjoyed a chocolate mousse cake from Demel’s . Like us, you may wish to sit in the Michaelerplatz to enjoy some of the best views in Vienna... and the cake.

4. Hofburg Palace

As you enter the Michaelerplatz and see the Hofburg Palace, you may think that this "wing" makes up the entirety of the palace. Au contraire. The palace is a series of lavish, interconnected buildings. It was the former residence of the Habsburg monarchy.

Explore the public areas of the complex for insights into the opulent Imperial life:

• The Sisi Museum - learn more of Empress Elisabeth
• The Imperial Apartments - a display of rooms used by Elisabeth and her husband, Emperor Franz Joseph
• The Silver Collection - shows off the Imperial table decor, porcelain, cutlery and utensils, and crockery

You'll no doubt see a fiaker or two—Viennese horse-drawn carriages—circling the drive.

Perhaps you have heard of the famous Lipizzaner stallions and the  Spanish Riding School . Don't miss the chance to see the horses in action. The entrance to the visitor center and arena is opposite the ticket counter for the Sisi Museum.

You could spend a 3 days in Vienna with teens discovering just the Palace and surrounding area!

5. Kunsthistorisches Museum

If looking for royal treasure is more in line with your tastes as you explore Vienna with teens, the  Imperial Treasury  is a short walk from the palace in a building separate from the Kunsthistorisches Museum and the Natural History Museum. Marvel at the crown jewels, religious relics, and priceless collections of the Habsburgs:

• Habsburg Imperial crown
• Holy Roman Emperor's coronation robes and crown
• A solid gold rosebush
• Emperor Maximilian I's 15th-century ceremonial sword

Perhaps these treasures are some of the best views in Vienna.

The main Kunsthistorisches Museum building on Maria-Theresien Platz houses treasures with an eclectic mix of art from the likes of Raffael, Bruegel, Holbein, Van Dyck, and Rembrandt. You'll also find Egyptian antiquities, Roman and Greek treasures, and an extensive coin collection.

6. Ausseres Burgtor - Triumphal Arch

If you happen to reach the Ausseres Burgtor when a musical group sets out to perform, you will be in for a treat. Take a seat on the steps and listen to an impromptu concert with outstanding acoustics. The arched passageway connects the Michaelerplatz and the Hofburg Palace with the Kunsthistorisches Museum group of buildings.

Won’t lie, it was kind of nice to sit and listen for awhile.

7. Schonbrunn Palace

While you are exploring Vienna with teens, I suggest you add a tour of the Schonbrunn Palace , the former home of Maria Theresia of the Habsburg nobility, to your itinerary.

Take the Grand Tour to see the lavish luxury of the rooms and private apartments of imperial royalty.

8. Schonbrunn Gardens and Zoo

The grounds surrounding the palace are extensive and precise.

You'll see rose bushes and rose arches, ponds, Roman ruins , and shady rows of trees in the extensive palace gardens. Venture into the maze section of the gardens and have fun trying to find your way out.

There are activities for both the old and young in the gardens, including the Schonbrunn Zoo. It just happens to be the world's oldest zoo .

You can take tours of the zoo in the early morning hours where you will have the park virtually to yourself, themed tours, or behind-the-scene tours.

If you happen to appreciate a picnic lunch, the gardens are the perfect place to enjoy your repast. Bring along some fresh bread, cheeses, meats, fruit, cookies and drinks. Lunch will be simple in nature but will bring lasting memories when you are looking for things to do in Vienna with teens.

>> Related: 10 SUPER EASY Ways to Save Money on Travel

9. Gloriette

Continue on to the columned Gloriette in the gardens and sit to enjoy one of the best views in Vienna. Built in 1775, apparently the Gloriette was built as eye candy to be viewed by the royalty from the Schonbrunn Palace. They created the best views in Vienna to enjoy everyday.

Today it houses a cafe, but was previously used by Franz Joseph I as a breakfast hall as well as a dining hall and festival hall.

Turns out it is just a nice place for you to relax, take some pictures, cool off in the shade, enjoy the afternoon, and do a little people-watching.

>> Related: Tips to Take Better Travel Photos (and Look Good in Them Too!)

10. Albertina Museum

Albertina is another magnificent museum in Vienna. The outside entrance stairs to the Albertina Museum are often decorated to draw in crowds.

"The  Albertina  is a museum in the Innere Stadt (First District) of Vienna, Austria. It houses one of the largest and most important print rooms in the world with approximately 65,000 drawings and approximately 1 million old master prints, as well as more modern graphic works, photographs and architectural drawings.

"Apart from the graphics collection the museum has recently acquired on permanent loan two significant collections of Impressionist and early 20th-century art, some of which will be on permanent display." Wikipedia

Day Trips from Vienna with Teens

After you explore for 3 days in Vienna, if you are interested in a little bit of traveling outside the city, Melk, the Melk Abbey, the Danube River, and the Wachau Valley might be just what you are looking for.

It took a little bit of planning finesse on my husband's part to get us to Melk, Austria.

You'll want to take a bus, then a train, and then transfer to another train before getting THE train tickets for the day to the Wachau Valley of Austria.

At our last stop, a helpful station agent helped us coordinate tickets to Melk, and we didn’t even have to make a mad dash for the train.

Don't be afraid to ask for help. So many people around the world are willing to help. Many of them speak English as well if that is your native language.

>> Related: My Favorite Crossbody Bag for Travel

We arrived in Melk, Austria around the same time as an English-speaking tour was starting at Melk Abbey . I would not recommend this if you aren't in the best of shape, but we took off on an uphill hike that might have taken 30 minutes at a leisurely speed. At Kline-speed (and wanting to arrive in time for the tour), we reached the abbey in about 10 minutes.

Our girls were NOT pleased. Whew.

But we made it. Joining the English-speaking tour with Florian was our goal, and though it had already begun, AND we were a little breathless, we were still able to join.

The tour of Melk Abbey includes the royal wing, the great hall where lavish dinners were held, the library which housed over 100,000 books, the chapel, and then the gardens. It was all lovely.

Riding Bikes Along the Danube

When planning for this trip, Chris had discovered a bike ride from Melk to Krems, Austria.

So, after we finished the tour of the Abbey in Melk, Chris downloaded an app and then tried to get a code from a bike rental company. It took awhile for him to get things set up, but he finally got things squared away for an afternoon of bike riding along the south side of the Danube.

The Danube is not blue.

Just saying.

Photo courtesy of Google Play

Get the NextBike App :

Let’s just say I fell off my bike within ten minutes of starting the ride! Don't do that.

I was bringing up the rear with my family and got held up when my youngest slowed down to go through a small entryway onto the bike path that was flanked on either side by columns. I didn’t have anywhere to go at the last second as she slowed but into a column and down I went.

Got my elbow and knee pretty good; I kept going to work out the kinks.

Now, let me just say that the blurb we read about this ride suggested that it was a nice, leisurely downhill coast. DOWNHILL. It was not, IN ANY WAY, leisurely or a downhill coast.

After a couple of hours and about 25 km, we finally stopped in a small town called Spitz, Austria. Our bike-riding muscles were worn out.

Though Chris was ready to ride a couple more hours until we reached Krems, his girls were not willing to go further by bike.

Again, my friends, be flexible. Especially when you are traveling with teenagers.

You can catch a bus to Krems.

By the time we arrived in Krems the town was pretty much shut down for the day. Boo.

After walking around for a short time, Chris found a train leaving from the Krems station back to Vienna. We only had a few minutes before it left and were all willing to run a little back to the train station to catch it. Sadly, we picked the slower train and it was two hours later when we finally rolled into the Vienna station.

Chris and I ate Built Bars protein bars on the train as our pseudo dinner. Not the best meal. Sometimes you have to make do in a pinch. Our girls weren’t having any of it. Luckily we finally reached the station in Vienna and found a small food court.

Essential Travel Gear for Your Days in Vienna with Teens

Chris and I both do extensive advance research when we travel and find many amazing places to visit and activities to enjoy.

I often take pictures of him while on vacation where he is looking at his phone. People sometimes comment, "Chris is always on his phone. Is he bored?"

Not so. He is checking train schedules, making sure apps are downloaded, and keeping up-to-date on excursions. The cell phone makes it so much simpler. If you aren't traveling with a cell phone , I highly recommend it.

Recommended Travel Gear

• Portable Charger - I promise, you will use it!
• Headphones, Airpods, or corded earbuds
• Tablet and Keyboard
• Cable Organizer
• DSLR Camera, Point and Shoot Camera, or Underwater Camera
• Camera battery, Charger, Memory Card
• Power Strip
• International Adapters
• Apple Watch
• The NorthFace Recon Backpack for Women
• The NorthFace Recon Backpack
• Travelon Crossbody Messenger Bag

>> Related: 14 Genius Gadgets for Travel

There are so many more items I use and recommend for travel . Check out my Amazon Storefront for more suggestions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is vienna family friendly.

Definitely. In fact, it is one of the most family friendly cities in Europe. If you are considering visiting Vienna with teens, I think you'll discover it to be a destination that has something for everyone in the family.

Is Vienna budget friendly?

If you compare Vienna to a more affordable destination such as Germany and then a more expensive country such as Switzerland, Vienna falls in the middle as an affordable destination. You can make choices in your accommodations, activities, entertainment, and food that will help your budget.

When is the best time to visit Vienna?

Summer is always a great time to visit Vienna when the day-time temperatures are high and nights are warm. If you want to add a little color to some of the best views in Vienna, consider a visit in the fall when temps are still pleasant.

What are the best views in Vienna?

Belvedere Palace (the featured image on this post) is one of the most photographed buildings in Vienna. You can also find Instagrammable spots at the cathedrals, Schonbrunn Palace, Hofburg Palace, and all along the Ringstrasse .

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Final thoughts on 10 fun things to do in vienna with teens.

Visiting Austria is the perfect destination when you are traveling with family. If you are exploring Vienna with teens, there are plenty of sites, excursions, day trips , and tours to keep everyone happy. There's just a little something for everyone.

Travel with teenagers does require some advance planning and research, especially if you are traveling on a budget. We stayed at the Hilton Garden Inn Vienna South . It was a bit outside of Vienna, but allowed us to use Hilton Honors points with the two rooms that we needed. Plus, it included breakfast which can add up to a big savings when you travel with family.

• Hilton Garden Inn Vienna South
• Hertha-Firnberg-Strasse 5, 1100, Vienna, Austria
• TEL: +43-1-60530555

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