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Imperial Grandeur & Alpine Majesty: Two Weeks in Austria

From Vienna's Palaces to Salzburg's Peaks and Hallstatt's Lakes

Trip Overview

This comprehensive two-week journey through Austria balances imperial history with natural splendor, taking you from the grand palaces of Vienna through the musical heritage of Salzburg to the breathtaking alpine landscapes of Tyrol and the Salzkammergut lake district. Experience world-class museums, baroque architecture, mountain vistas, and charming medieval towns while savoring traditional Austrian cuisine and coffeehouse culture. The itinerary moves at a comfortable pace, allowing time to truly absorb each destination without feeling rushed. You'll explore five distinct regions, each offering unique character—from cosmopolitan Vienna to fairytale Hallstatt. This route uses efficient train connections between cities while building in leisurely days for hiking, scenic exploration, and spontaneous discoveries.

Pace
Moderate
Daily Budget
$120-180 per day
Best Seasons
May-September for complete access; December for Christmas markets; April-October for hiking
Ideal For
First-time visitors to Austria, History and architecture enthusiasts, Classical music lovers, Nature and hiking enthusiasts, Couples seeking romance, Photography enthusiasts

Day-by-Day Itinerary

1

Imperial Vienna Awaits

Vienna
Arrive in Austria's elegant capital and begin exploring the historic center, starting with the iconic St. Stephen's Cathedral and the surrounding pedestrian streets of the Innere Stadt.
Morning
Arrival and St. Stephen's Cathedral
After settling into your accommodation, head to St. Stephen's Cathedral, Vienna's Gothic masterpiece dominating the city center. Explore the ornate interior with its stunning altars and carved pulpit. Consider climbing the South Tower for panoramic views over Vienna's rooftops—463 steps reward you with unforgettable vistas. The cathedral's colorful tiled roof is an icon of Austrian architecture.
2-3 hours $8-15
No advance booking needed; arrive early to avoid crowds
Lunch
A traditional Viennese restaurant near the cathedral serving Wiener Schnitzel
Austrian Mid-range
Afternoon
Hofburg Palace Complex
Explore the vast Hofburg, the former imperial palace that served as the Habsburg winter residence for over 600 years. Visit the Imperial Apartments to see how emperors lived, the Sisi Museum dedicated to Empress Elisabeth, and the Imperial Silver Collection. The palace complex sprawls across central Vienna, showcasing centuries of Austrian imperial power and artistic achievement.
3-4 hours $18-25
Consider purchasing a Sisi Ticket for combined entry to multiple imperial sites
Evening
Traditional coffeehouse experience and evening stroll
Visit a classic Viennese coffeehouse for Sachertorte and melange, then walk through the illuminated historic center

Where to Stay Tonight

Innere Stadt (1st District) (Mid-range hotel in the historic center)

Central location puts you within walking distance of major attractions and evening dining options

Purchase a Vienna City Card for unlimited public transport and discounts at attractions—it pays for itself quickly
Day 1 Budget: $140-200
2

Baroque Splendor & Garden Majesty

Vienna
Dedicate today to Vienna's magnificent palace complexes, exploring the summer residence of the Habsburgs and the baroque masterpiece housing world-class art collections.
Morning
Schönbrunn Palace and Gardens
Spend the morning at Schönbrunn Palace, the Habsburgs' summer residence with 1,441 rooms. Tour the opulent State Rooms where Mozart once performed as a child prodigy. The Grand Tour includes Maria Theresa's private apartments with their original rococo decorations. Afterward, stroll through the magnificent baroque gardens, visit the Gloriette monument for spectacular city views, and explore the world's oldest zoo if time permits.
4-5 hours $25-35
Book skip-the-line tickets online in advance; arrive at opening time to beat crowds
Lunch
A garden café within the Schönbrunn grounds offering light Austrian fare
Austrian café Mid-range
Afternoon
Belvedere Palace
Visit the Belvedere Palace complex, consisting of two baroque palaces set in beautiful gardens. The Upper Belvedere houses Austria's most important art collection, including Gustav Klimt's famous 'The Kiss' and works by Egon Schiele. The palace itself is an architectural marvel, built for Prince Eugene of Savoy. Walk through the terraced gardens connecting the upper and lower palaces, designed in French baroque style.
2-3 hours $18-22
Buy tickets online to skip queues; focus on Upper Belvedere if time is limited
Evening
Naschmarkt area dinner and drinks
Explore the restaurants and bars near Vienna's famous market, offering international cuisine and lively atmosphere

Where to Stay Tonight

Innere Stadt (1st District) (Same hotel as Day 1)

Staying put allows you to settle in and use Vienna as a base without repacking

The Belvedere gardens are free to enter and offer perfect photo opportunities of the palace with Vienna's skyline behind
Day 2 Budget: $130-180
3

Vienna's Lighter Side

Vienna
Balance Vienna's imperial grandeur with its playful side, visiting the historic amusement park and exploring a stunning baroque church before an evening of music or entertainment.
Morning
Prater and Giant Ferris Wheel
Head to the Prater, Vienna's beloved public park and amusement area. Ride the iconic Giant Ferris Wheel (Riesenrad), built in 1897, which offers slowly rotating panoramic views of the city from vintage wooden cabins. Explore the Wurstelprater amusement park with its nostalgic charm, or simply walk through the tree-lined Hauptallee, a favorite spot for locals jogging and cycling through the expansive green space.
2-3 hours $12-20
Lunch
A traditional beer garden or stand in the Prater serving würstel and beer
Austrian casual Budget
Afternoon
St. Charles's Church
Visit St. Charles's Church (Karlskirche), Vienna's finest baroque church with its distinctive elliptical dome and twin columns flanking the entrance. Take the panoramic elevator inside to view the stunning ceiling frescoes by Johann Michael Rottmayr up close—a unique perspective rarely offered in churches. The reflecting pool in front creates perfect photo opportunities. The church represents Emperor Charles VI's thanksgiving for ending the plague.
1-2 hours $10-12
Evening
Classical concert or opera performance
Attend a performance at the State Opera, Musikverein, or a palace concert featuring Mozart and Strauss

Where to Stay Tonight

Innere Stadt (1st District) (Same hotel as previous nights)

Final night in Vienna before heading west tomorrow

Standing room tickets at the Vienna State Opera are incredibly affordable (under $10) and available 80 minutes before performances—arrive early to queue
Day 3 Budget: $120-180
4

Danube Valley & Medieval Melk

Melk to Salzburg
Travel west through the scenic Wachau Valley, stopping at the magnificent Melk Abbey before continuing to Salzburg for your next base.
Morning
Journey to Melk Abbey
Take a morning train to Melk, traveling through the picturesque Wachau Valley wine region. Visit Melk Abbey, a spectacular baroque Benedictine monastery perched dramatically above the Danube River. Tour the ornate marble hall, library containing 100,000 volumes with stunning ceiling frescoes, and the church with its golden decorations. The terrace offers sweeping views over the river valley and surrounding vineyards.
2-3 hours at abbey $15-18
No advance booking necessary; guided tours available in multiple languages
Lunch
A restaurant in Melk town with Danube views serving Wachau specialties
Austrian regional Mid-range
Afternoon
Travel to Salzburg
Continue your journey to Salzburg by train, enjoying scenic views of the Austrian countryside. The route takes approximately 3 hours through rolling hills and charming villages. Arrive in Mozart's birthplace by late afternoon, check into your accommodation, and take an initial evening stroll through the atmospheric Altstadt (Old Town) with its narrow medieval lanes and baroque squares.
3-4 hours travel $40-50 train fare
Book train tickets in advance online for better prices
Evening
Salzburg Old Town exploration and dinner
Walk along Getreidegasse, the main shopping street, and dine at a traditional restaurant in the Old Town

Where to Stay Tonight

Salzburg Old Town or near train station (Comfortable hotel in central location)

Central position allows easy exploration of Salzburg's compact historic center on foot

The train journey through the Wachau Valley is scenic—sit on the right side heading west for best Danube views
Day 4 Budget: $140-190
5

Mozart's Salzburg

Salzburg
Explore Salzburg's magnificent fortress, baroque gardens, and musical heritage in this perfectly preserved city nestled between mountains and the Salzach River.
Morning
Fortress Hohensalzburg
Take the funicular railway up to Fortress Hohensalzburg, one of Europe's largest and best-preserved medieval castles, towering 120 meters above the city. Explore the fortress rooms including the Golden Hall and Golden Chamber with their ornate decorations, military museums, and torture chamber. The panoramic terraces offer breathtaking 360-degree views over Salzburg's spires, the Salzach River, and the surrounding Alps—perfect for understanding the city's geography.
2-3 hours $15-20
Buy combined funicular and fortress tickets; early morning visits are less crowded
Lunch
A restaurant in the Old Town serving Salzburger Nockerl, the city's signature fluffy soufflé dessert
Austrian Mid-range
Afternoon
Mirabell Palace and Gardens
Visit Mirabell Palace and its stunning baroque gardens, built by a prince-archbishop for his mistress. The geometrically designed gardens feature marble statues, fountains, and perfectly manicured flowerbeds. Walk through the Pegasus Fountain area and the Dwarf Garden. The palace's Marble Hall is one of the world's most beautiful wedding venues. Sound of Music fans will recognize the gardens from the 'Do-Re-Mi' scene.
1-2 hours $5-8 (gardens free, palace interior fee)
Evening
Mozart concert and dinner
Attend a Mozart dinner concert or performance at the Mozarteum, followed by drinks in the New Town

Where to Stay Tonight

Salzburg Old Town or near train station (Same hotel as previous night)

Staying multiple nights allows deeper exploration without constant packing

The Salzburg Card includes fortress entry, public transport, and attractions—worthwhile for a full day of sightseeing
Day 5 Budget: $130-180
6

Alpine Transition to Innsbruck

Salzburg to Innsbruck
Travel through spectacular alpine scenery to Innsbruck, capital of Tyrol, and begin exploring this charming mountain city with its blend of imperial history and outdoor culture.
Morning
Scenic train journey to Innsbruck
Take the morning train from Salzburg to Innsbruck, one of Austria's most scenic railway routes. The journey winds through mountain valleys, past turquoise rivers, and alongside dramatic peaks. Arrive in Innsbruck around midday and check into your accommodation. Begin exploring the compact Old Town (Altstadt) with its colorful medieval houses, arcaded streets, and mountain backdrop creating a unique alpine-urban atmosphere.
2 hours travel $35-45 train fare
Reserve seats on the right side for best mountain views traveling west
Lunch
A traditional Tyrolean restaurant in the Old Town serving speck and käsespätzle
Tyrolean Mid-range
Afternoon
Golden Roof and Old Town
Visit the Golden Roof (Goldenes Dachl), Innsbruck's most famous landmark—a late Gothic oriel with 2,657 gilded copper tiles built for Emperor Maximilian I. Explore the small museum inside detailing the city's imperial history. Wander the surrounding medieval streets, admiring the baroque and Gothic architecture. Visit the Imperial Church and Court Church with its impressive bronze statues. The compact Old Town is easily walkable and photogenic at every turn.
2-3 hours $8-12
Evening
Mountain-view dinner and sunset
Dine at a restaurant with views of the Nordkette mountain range, then stroll along the Inn River promenade

Where to Stay Tonight

Innsbruck Old Town or nearby (Alpine-style hotel with mountain views)

Central location provides easy access to both city sights and mountain cable cars

The Innsbruck Card includes all cable cars and public transport—essential if you plan mountain excursions
Day 6 Budget: $130-170
7

Imperial Innsbruck & Alpine Heights

Innsbruck
Discover Innsbruck's Renaissance palace and take a breathtaking cable car journey into the Alps for hiking and panoramic views over the Inn Valley.
Morning
Schloss Ambras Innsbruck
Visit Schloss Ambras, a stunning Renaissance palace overlooking Innsbruck. Archduke Ferdinand II created one of the world's first museums here in the 16th century. Explore the Spanish Hall with its ornate wooden ceiling, the Chamber of Art and Curiosities filled with fascinating objects, and the portrait gallery. The palace grounds include beautiful gardens and offer excellent views. The collection represents Renaissance collecting at its finest.
2-3 hours $15-18
Take tram 6 from the city center; arrive early to enjoy the gardens in morning light
Lunch
A mountain hut or café at the top cable car station serving Tyrolean specialties
Alpine Mid-range
Afternoon
Nordkette Cable Car and Alpine Experience
Take the futuristic Nordkette cable car system from the city center straight into the Alps—reaching 2,256 meters in just 20 minutes. The journey offers spectacular views over Innsbruck and the Inn Valley. At the top stations, enjoy hiking trails suitable for various abilities, or simply relax on the terrace taking in the dramatic mountain panorama. In clear weather, you can see across multiple mountain ranges.
3-4 hours $40-50
Check weather conditions before ascending; afternoon light is best for photography
Evening
Traditional Tyrolean evening
Attend a Tyrolean folk show with music and dancing, or enjoy a relaxed dinner at a historic gasthof

Where to Stay Tonight

Innsbruck Old Town or nearby (Same hotel as previous night)

Staying put allows you to settle in and explore Innsbruck thoroughly

The Nordkette cable car station in town is architecturally stunning—designed by Zaha Hadid—and worth seeing even if not ascending
Day 7 Budget: $150-200
8

Journey to Hallstatt's Lakeside Paradise

Innsbruck to Hallstatt
Travel through the Salzkammergut region to reach Hallstatt, Austria's most photographed village, nestled between mountains and a pristine alpine lake.
Morning
Scenic journey to Hallstatt
Take the train from Innsbruck through stunning alpine and lake landscapes to reach Hallstatt—a journey requiring a train change and short ferry ride across the lake. The route passes through the Salzkammergut region, famous for its 76 crystal-clear lakes surrounded by mountains. Arrive in Hallstatt by early afternoon and immediately understand why this tiny village draws visitors worldwide—the setting is simply magical.
3-4 hours travel $45-60 train and ferry
Check train connections carefully; the ferry from Hallstatt station to the village is timed with trains
Lunch
A lakeside restaurant in Hallstatt serving fresh trout from the lake
Austrian lake cuisine Mid-range
Afternoon
Hallstatt Village Exploration and Panoramic Viewpoint
Wander Hallstatt's narrow lanes lined with traditional wooden houses and flower boxes. Visit the Panoramic Viewpoint - Hallstatt, accessible by a steep path or funicular, offering the iconic postcard view of the village, church spire, and lake surrounded by mountains. The vista is particularly stunning in afternoon light. Explore the charming market square and lakeside promenade, discovering why this UNESCO World Heritage site captivates photographers and romantics alike.
2-3 hours $12-15 funicular
Evening
Sunset by the lake
Enjoy dinner at a lakefront restaurant, then watch the sunset paint the mountains in golden light—Hallstatt's magic hour

Where to Stay Tonight

Hallstatt village center (Traditional guesthouse with lake or mountain views)

Staying overnight lets you experience Hallstatt after day-trippers leave, when the village becomes peaceful and enchanting

Visit the viewpoint early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds; sunrise over the lake is particularly spectacular
Day 8 Budget: $140-190
9

Hallstatt's Hidden Treasures

Hallstatt
Delve deeper into Hallstatt's ancient salt mining heritage and natural beauty, exploring waterfalls and experiencing why this region has been inhabited for 7,000 years.
Morning
Salt Mine and Hallstätter Wasserfall
Visit Hallstatt's ancient salt mines, which have been worked for over 3,000 years making this one of the world's oldest industrial sites. Take the funicular up, then tour the mines including thrilling wooden slides between levels and an underground salt lake. Afterward, hike to the Hallstätter Wasserfall, a beautiful cascade tumbling down the mountainside through forest. The trail offers peaceful nature immersion away from the village crowds.
3-4 hours $35-40
Book salt mine tours online in advance, especially in summer; wear warm clothing as mines are cool
Lunch
A mountain restaurant near the salt mines with panoramic lake views
Austrian mountain Mid-range
Afternoon
Lake swimming and boat rental
Spend a relaxing afternoon by Hallstätter See, one of Austria's most beautiful alpine lakes. Rent an electric boat or rowboat to explore the lake from the water, getting unique perspectives of the village and surrounding peaks. The lake's crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming in summer months. Alternatively, walk the lakeside path to quieter spots away from the village center, finding peaceful beaches and swimming areas.
2-3 hours $20-30
Evening
Final evening in Hallstatt
Enjoy a farewell dinner at a traditional restaurant, then take an evening stroll as the village lights reflect on the lake

Where to Stay Tonight

Hallstatt village center (Same guesthouse as previous night)

Second night allows you to fully experience this special location without rushing

The village is most photogenic and peaceful in early morning before 9am and after 6pm when day-trippers have departed
Day 9 Budget: $130-180
10

Styrian Alps & Graz Bound

Hallstatt to Graz
Journey southeast to Graz, Austria's second city, with a possible stop to explore the dramatic gorges and waterfalls of Nationalpark Gesäuse.
Morning
Travel toward Graz via Nationalpark Gesäuse
Depart Hallstatt and travel toward Graz, considering a stop at Nationalpark Gesäuse if time permits. This national park features dramatic limestone peaks, deep gorges, and the wild Enns River. The Gesäuse gorge is spectacular, with towering rock walls rising 1,000 meters. If stopping, take a short hike to experience the raw alpine scenery. Otherwise, continue directly to Graz, enjoying the changing landscape from lakes to mountains to rolling hills.
4-5 hours total travel $50-65 train fare
Check train connections carefully as this route may require changes
Lunch
A restaurant en route or upon arrival in Graz serving Styrian specialties
Styrian Mid-range
Afternoon
Schlossberg and Old Town Introduction
Begin exploring Graz by ascending the Schlossberg, the tree-covered hill dominating the city center. Take the funicular or climb the stairs to reach the iconic Clock Tower (Uhrturm), Graz's symbol. The hilltop offers panoramic views over the terracotta roofs of the UNESCO-listed Old Town. Explore the fortification remnants, gardens, and cafés. Descend through the illuminated tunnel or wind down the paths into the charming Old Town.
2-3 hours $8-12
Evening
Graz Old Town evening exploration
Wander the atmospheric streets, visit the futuristic Kunsthaus art museum, and dine at a traditional Styrian restaurant

Where to Stay Tonight

Graz Old Town (Hotel in the historic center)

Central location in Austria's best-preserved Renaissance old town, perfect for evening strolls

Graz has a younger, more relaxed vibe than Vienna—it's a university city with great bars and cafés at reasonable prices
Day 10 Budget: $140-180
11

Graz's Renaissance Charm

Graz
Explore Graz's beautifully preserved Old Town, innovative modern architecture, and sample Styrian culinary specialties in Austria's culinary capital.
Morning
Graz Old Town walking tour
Spend the morning exploring Graz's UNESCO World Heritage Old Town, one of Europe's best-preserved Renaissance city centers. Wander through the Hauptplatz main square, admire the ornate facades along Herrengasse, and visit the Landhaus courtyard with its Renaissance arcades. Explore the atmospheric narrow lanes, discovering hidden courtyards and artisan shops. The blend of Italian Renaissance and Austrian baroque creates a unique architectural harmony.
3 hours $0-10
Lunch
A traditional buschenschank (wine tavern) serving Styrian pumpkin seed oil, local ham, and wine
Styrian regional Budget
Afternoon
Museums and modern Graz
Visit the Kunsthaus Graz, the striking blue biomorphic modern art museum nicknamed 'the friendly alien.' Explore contemporary exhibitions in this architectural landmark. Walk along the Mur River to see the Murinsel, a floating platform designed as an amphitheater and café. Visit the Landeszeughaus (Armory), the world's largest historic armory with 32,000 pieces. Graz brilliantly balances medieval charm with cutting-edge contemporary design.
2-3 hours $15-25
Evening
Styrian wine and dining experience
Enjoy Graz's renowned food scene—try local wines and Styrian specialties at a modern restaurant in the Old Town

Where to Stay Tonight

Graz Old Town (Same hotel as previous night)

Second night allows deeper exploration of this underrated Austrian gem

Styrian pumpkin seed oil is a local specialty—buy some at the farmers market to take home; the dark green oil is delicious on salads
Day 11 Budget: $120-160
12

Return to Vienna's Embrace

Graz to Vienna
Travel back to Vienna for your final days, with time to revisit favorite spots or explore neighborhoods and attractions you missed earlier.
Morning
Scenic train return to Vienna
Take the comfortable train journey from Graz back to Vienna, traveling through the Styrian countryside and eastern Austrian landscapes. The journey takes approximately 2.5 hours on the direct route. Arrive in Vienna by late morning or early afternoon, check back into your accommodation, and begin exploring areas you didn't have time for during your initial stay. Consider the Naschmarkt for lunch and browsing.
2.5 hours travel $35-50 train fare
Book in advance for best prices; frequent direct trains make scheduling flexible
Lunch
The Naschmarkt, Vienna's famous food market with international food stalls and restaurants
International market food Budget to Mid-range
Afternoon
Explore Vienna's neighborhoods
Spend the afternoon in areas beyond the tourist center. Explore the trendy 7th District (Neubau) with its vintage shops, galleries, and cafés. Visit the MuseumsQuartier, one of the world's largest cultural complexes housed in former imperial stables. Alternatively, explore the Spittelberg quarter's cobblestone streets, or walk along the Danube Canal with its street art and beach bars. Experience local Vienna beyond the imperial monuments.
3-4 hours $10-20
Evening
Vienna wine tavern experience
Take tram to Grinzing or another wine village in the Vienna Woods for heuriger (wine tavern) dinner with local wines

Where to Stay Tonight

Vienna, near city center (Hotel in central or trendy district)

Back in the capital for final nights, positioned for last-minute shopping and sightseeing

Heuriger wine taverns in Vienna's outskirts offer authentic local experience—look for the pine branch sign indicating new wine is available
Day 12 Budget: $130-170
13

Vienna's Hidden Gems

Vienna
Discover lesser-known Vienna attractions, revisit favorites, or take a day trip to nearby destinations, making the most of your final full day.
Morning
Revisit favorite sites or explore new areas
Use this flexible morning to revisit any attractions that deserve more time, such as spending longer in the Belvedere gardens or exploring Schönbrunn's zoo and park areas more thoroughly. Alternatively, visit attractions missed earlier like the Secession Building with Klimt's Beethoven Frieze, the Hundertwasserhaus colorful apartment building, or the Central Cemetery where Beethoven, Brahms, and Schubert are buried. Tailor this day to your interests.
3-4 hours $15-25
Lunch
A traditional beisl (neighborhood tavern) in a residential district for authentic Viennese home cooking
Traditional Viennese Budget to Mid-range
Afternoon
Shopping and final explorations
Spend the afternoon shopping for souvenirs along Kärntner Strasse and Graben, or explore the luxury shops on Kohlmarkt. Visit specialty shops for Mozart chocolates, Augarten porcelain, or Austrian wines. Alternatively, relax in the Stadtpark watching locals and enjoying the green space, or take a final coffee and cake at a traditional coffeehouse, savoring the unhurried Viennese pace one last time.
3-4 hours $20-50
Evening
Farewell dinner and evening
Book a special dinner at a rooftop restaurant with city views, or return to your favorite spot from earlier in the trip

Where to Stay Tonight

Vienna, near city center (Same hotel as previous night)

Final night before departure—stay near transport connections

Many museums offer late opening one evening per week—check schedules to maximize your last full day
Day 13 Budget: $140-200
14

Auf Wiedersehen, Austria

Vienna
Departure day with time for final breakfast, last-minute shopping, and airport transfer, carrying memories of Austria's imperial cities and alpine splendor.
Morning
Final breakfast and departure preparations
Enjoy a leisurely final Viennese breakfast at your hotel or a favorite café—savoring fresh semmel rolls, butter, jam, and excellent coffee one last time. If your flight allows, take a final stroll through the Old Town, perhaps buying last-minute gifts or simply absorbing the atmosphere. Pack your souvenirs carefully, especially any bottles of wine or schnapps. Check out and arrange airport transfer.
2-3 hours $10-20
Lunch
Light meal at the airport or grab something en route
Casual Budget
Afternoon
Airport transfer and departure
Take the City Airport Train (CAT) or S-Bahn to Vienna International Airport, allowing at least 2.5 hours before international flights. The CAT takes just 16 minutes to the airport from Wien Mitte station. Alternatively, arrange a taxi or shuttle if you have heavy luggage. Reflect on two weeks of imperial palaces, alpine peaks, crystal lakes, and the rich culture that makes Austria unforgettable.
Variable $15-50 transport
Book CAT tickets online for slight discount; S-Bahn is cheaper but takes longer
Evening
Departure
Safe travels with memories of Austria's beauty, history, and hospitality

Where to Stay Tonight

N/A (Departure day)

End of journey

Vienna Airport has excellent duty-free shopping for Austrian wines, chocolates, and souvenirs—prices are reasonable compared to other European airports
Day 14 Budget: $60-100

Practical Information

Getting Around

Austria's public transport is excellent and punctual. The ÖBB rail network connects all major cities efficiently—purchase an Austrian Rail Pass or book individual tickets online in advance for savings. Within cities, use trams, buses, and metros with day passes. Consider the Österreich-Card for multiple cities. Regional trains offer stunning scenic routes. Rental cars are unnecessary in cities but useful for exploring rural areas. The Westbahn private railway offers competitive prices on the Vienna-Salzburg route. Download the ÖBB app for real-time schedules and mobile tickets.

Book Ahead

Book Schönbrunn Palace tours 2-3 weeks ahead in summer. Reserve popular restaurants and palace concerts in Vienna 1-2 weeks early. Hallstatt accommodation should be booked months ahead for summer visits. Train tickets between cities offer discounts when booked 3+ days in advance. Salt mine tours in Hallstatt benefit from advance booking in high season. Opera tickets at Vienna State Opera should be purchased as early as possible for best seats.

Packing Essentials

Comfortable walking shoes essential for cobblestones and hills. Layers for variable mountain weather. Light rain jacket year-round. Smart casual clothes for Vienna's restaurants and opera. Swimwear for alpine lakes in summer. Sunscreen and sunglasses for high altitudes. Power adapter for European outlets. Reusable water bottle (tap water is excellent). Small daypack for excursions. Camera with extra memory for countless photo opportunities.

Total Budget

$1,820-2,520 for 14 days (excluding international flights)

Customize Your Trip

Budget Version

Stay in hostels or budget hotels (€30-50/night). Use standing room opera tickets and free museum days. Eat at supermarkets and food stands rather than restaurants. Skip cable cars and hike up mountains. Use slow regional trains instead of express services. Cook some meals if accommodation has kitchen facilities. Visit free attractions like church interiors, gardens, and viewpoints. Purchase multi-day transport cards for savings. Travel in shoulder season (April-May, September-October) for lower accommodation prices.

Luxury Upgrade

Stay at five-star hotels like Hotel Sacher Vienna, Schloss Fuschl near Salzburg, and luxury properties in each city. Book premium orchestra seats at the Vienna State Opera. Arrange private guided tours of palaces and museums. Dine at Michelin-starred restaurants in each city. Take helicopter tours over the Alps. Book spa treatments at luxury hotels. Arrange private car transfers between cities. Stay in suites with imperial decor and modern amenities. Add wine tasting tours in the Wachau Valley with private drivers.

Family-Friendly

Stay in apartment-style accommodations with kitchens for flexible meals. Add Schönbrunn Zoo (world's oldest) and Prater amusement park for full days. Book family rooms or connecting rooms at hotels. Include more outdoor activities like lake swimming, easy hiking trails, and playground stops. Reduce museum time and add interactive experiences like salt mine slides in Hallstatt. Take boat rides on lakes. Visit in summer for best weather and longest days. Pack snacks and entertainment for train journeys. Choose restaurants with children's menus and outdoor seating.

Book Activities for Your Trip

Tours, tickets, and experiences in Austria

Continue Planning Your Trip

Things to Do

Top attractions and activities for Austria

Budget Guide

Trip costs and money tips for Austria

Getting Around

Transport options and tips for Austria

Where to Stay

Accommodation guide for Austria

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