day trip out of 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

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

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

Good to know

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

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

Check out WanderInEurope’s Pinterest Page .

#1 Laxenburg Castle Park (Laxenburg, Lower Austria)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

You might find these interesting!

#2 Liechtenstein Castle (Maria Enzersdorf, Lower Austria)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Learn more about Liechtenstein Castle and other day trips here .

#3 Kreuzenstein Castle (Leobendorf, Lower Austria)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Learn more about Kreuzenstein Castle and other day trips here .

#4 Melk Abbey (Wachau Valley, Lower Austria)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Learn more about Melk Abbey and other day trips here .

#5 Hallstatt (Salzkammergut, Upper Austria)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#6 St. Gilgen (Salzkammergut, Salzburg)

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

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

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

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

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

The fun never stops in St. Gilgen though.

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

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

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

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

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

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

#7 Salzburg

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

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

Salzburg boasts a unique mix of

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

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

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

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

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

Learn more about Salzburg and other day trips here .

Combo Day Trips

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

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

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

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

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

Considering the castles I brought up earlier?

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

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

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

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

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

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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!

Table of Contents

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

Bratislava Castle

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

Kreuzenstein castle.

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. 

Old Town Square

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

Wien museum 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

Mozart's Birthplace

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

Römerstadt carnuntum.

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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14 Best Day Trips from Vienna

• March 1, 2024
• Austria , Europe

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

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

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

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

In a hurry?  Book your Vienna day tours :

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

Hallstatt Day Trip With Skywalk

Danube Valley Day Trip

Vienna Woods and Seegrotte Hinterbrühl

3 Castles and Wine Tasting Tour

Best way to go on day trips from Vienna

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hotel Sacher Wien

HISTORY & LUXURY

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

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Hotel Am Parkring

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

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Residence Wollzeile

CENTRAL HOME

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

Read next: Where to stay in Vienna

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

Vienna day trips to nearby towns

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

Getting to Klosterneuburg from Vienna

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

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

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

Best tours of Klosterneuburg from Vienna

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

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

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

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

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

Getting to Hinterbrühl from Vienna

Train: 45 minutes Drive: 25 km / 30 minutes

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

Best tours of Hinterbrühl from Vienna

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

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

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

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

Getting to Vienna Woods from Vienna

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

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

Best tours of Vienna Woods from Vienna

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

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

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

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

Getting to Carnuntum from Vienna

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

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

Best tours of Carnuntum from Vienna

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

Book your adventure: Roman City of Carnuntum Admission

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

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

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

Getting to Eisenstadt from Vienna

Train: 55 minutes Drive: 60 km / 1 hour

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

Best tours of Eisenstadt from Vienna

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

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

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

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

Getting to Melk from Vienna

Train: 50 minutes Drive: 90 km / 1.5 hours

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

Best tours of Melk Abbey from Vienna

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

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

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

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

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

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

Getting to Wachau from Vienna

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

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

Best tours of Wachau from Vienna

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

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

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

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

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

Getting to Mauthausen from Vienna

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

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

Best tours of Mauthausen from Vienna

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

Book your adventure: Mauthausen Concentration Camp Day Trip from Vienna

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

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

Getting to Graz from Vienna

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

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

Best tours of Graz from Vienna

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read next: Your guide to visiting Hallstatt

Getting to Hallstatt from Vienna

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

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

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

Best tours of Hallstatt from Vienna

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

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

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

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

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

Read next: Salzburg Itinerary

Getting to Salzburg from Vienna

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

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

Best tours of Salzburg from Vienna

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

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

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

Day trips from Vienna to neighboring countries

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

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

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

Getting to Bratislava from Vienna

Train: 50 minutes Drive: 70 km / 1 hour

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

Best tours of Bratislava from Vienna

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

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

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

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

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

Getting to Cesky Krumlov from Vienna

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

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

Best tours of Cesky Krumlov from Vienna

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

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

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

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

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

Read next: Budapest Itinerary

Getting to Budapest from Vienna

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

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

Best tours of Budapest from Vienna

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

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

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

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

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

Getting to Prague from Vienna

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

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

Best tours of Prague from Vienna

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hallstatt: Your guide to visiting Hallstatt

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

Travel Insurance

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

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

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

You can get your quote & provider recommendations  here.

Zi @Craving Adventure

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

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19 COOLEST Day Trips from Vienna [2023!]

But what can you do if you’re ready to move on from Vienna? Where can you go if you feel like getting outside of the city and exploring somewhere new?

That’s why we wrote this guide to the best day trips from Vienna. We’ve highlighted the best destinations and broken them down into easy to digest categories. So you can quickly find the best day trip destination for your travel style.

Whether you’re looking to travel by train, as a family of five, or are looking for a romantic day out for two, we’ve got you covered!

Here are the 19 best day trips from Vienna, Austria.

Editor’s note – Need a place to stay while exploring the capital of Austria? Check out our 15 best hostels in Vienna!

Quick Answer: Best Day Trips from Vienna

• Day Trips from Vienna by Train – From Vienna: Day Tour of Salzburg
• Romantic Day Trips from Vienna for Couples – Wachau Valley Day Tour with Wine Tasting
• Day Trips from Vienna with Kids – Skip the Line: Schönbrunn Palace & Vienna City Tour

Best Places to Stay in Vienna

The Austrian capital is a beautiful, creative and cool city with layer upon layer of history to uncover. Make sure you can get around the city easily so you don’t miss out on all of those imperial palaces, museums and cathedrals. Pick the right accommodation and the city’s charm will easily reveal itself.

• Best Hostel in Vienna •

Wombats city hostel vienna – the naschmarkt.

•       Top recommended hostel

Right in the middle of all of the action in Vienna – and overlooking the city’s market – this is the place to be. There’s an underground station steps from the front door of this top hostel in Vienna so it’s a breeze to get around. The hostel also puts on a load of fun events for you to mingle with other guests.

• Best Budget Hotel in Vienna •

Kaisers inn the apartment.

•       Excellent value for money

This quirky place has got a boho boutique feeling about it but for the snip of the price. Choose from rooms with shared bathrooms or your own apartment, complete with a kitchen so you can REALLY keep travel costs low. There’s also a metro stop in walking distance so you can hop on a train for adventures outside of the city.

Why are boutique hotels all the rage right now? Find out with this guide to boutique hotels in Vienna .

• Best Luxury Hotel in Vienna •

Palais hansen kempinski vienna.

•       Ultimate in luxury

Vienna has its fair share of historic buildings… this hotel is one of them. Built for the World Exhibition in Vienna in 1873, everything about this place is high-end, from the cigar lounge to the to the spa. The location is great for those who want to see the sights on foot, but there’s also a metro stop nearby.

#1 Best Day Trip from Vienna – Salzburg

Day trips from vienna by train.

• A MUST for music fans, and fans of “The Sound of Music”
• Stunning natural scenery
• Charming old town

Rolling hills, lush lands and a flowing river, Salzburg is an enchanting day trip from Vienna by train. It is located in central Austria and it takes just two-and-a-half hours to get there from Vienna.

Salzburg is well-known as the setting to classic 1965 film “The Sound of Music.” Fans can walk in the footsteps of the film by visiting the shooting locations and even bursting out in song as they twirl along the hills.

But there’s more to Salzburg than “The Sound of Music.” The old town is home to incredible examples of Baroque architecture. There are also palaces, gardens, a zoo, and you can even visit the Mozart family home.

We are obsessed with backpacks – we’ve tried them all! And our favourite carry on backpack in the WORLD is the Nomatic Travel Backpack.  This backpack has revolutionized the backpack industry and will change the way you travel forever :) Check it out here!

#2 – Melk

• Great for architecture fans
• Incredible history
• A beautiful location

Melk is a small riverside town located on the banks of the Danube River. It is part of the Wachau Valley and can be reached from Vienna by train in less than an hour.

It is a charming town that boasts a small historic town centre. Melk’s crowning attraction is the incredible Melk Benedictine Abbey. It is built on a bluff overlooking the Danube, standing proudly over the region. Inside the Abbey, you’ll find incredible decorations and details.

The walls are lined with portraits of Austrian rulers and the ceiling features a richly painted allegorical picture. There’s also a two-storey library, symmetrical twin towers and an incredible 200-ft dome.

The town is also home to a handful of museums, including one dedicated to the accordion.

There’s so much to do in Austria! So you won’t run out of things to do in Vienna !

#3 – Hallstatt

• A great base for hiking or trekking
• Unique experiences and attractions
• Unbeatable views and landscapes

Hallstatt is considered by many to be one of the most beautiful places on earth – and it’s easy to see why. Nestled between the lake and the hills, Hallstatt is colourful, charming and bursting with magic.

In addition to its delightful town centre, there are plenty of unique attractions in Hallstatt. One of the most famous is Beinhaus, the Bone House. Stacked within this small church, you’ll find the bones and skulls of past residents that have been dug up, bleached and decorated, and are now adorning the walls. Trust us, it’s not as gory as it sounds, but is an interesting sight to see.

Hallstatt is also home to a 250-year-old salt cave. Travel deep underground and explore the beauty that lies within this natural wonder.

Want to see more than just Salzburg? Take a day trip from Salzburg to get to know Austria!

#4 – Bratislava, Slovakia

• A rich history
• Unique culture
• Beautiful scenery

Vienna is an incredibly well-connected city, so why not use it as a jumping off point to explore other countries. First up is Slovakia.

If you’re looking to check another country off your bucket list, we can’t recommend Bratislava enough. Not only is it the largest city and capital of Slovakia, but Bratislava is the country’s cultural, economic, artistic and historic hub. Whatever your interests, there’s something for everyone in Bratislava.

Must see attractions include Bratislava Castle; Hlavne namestie and Hviezdoslavovo namestie, the two main squares; and, St. Martin’s Cathedral.

Also keep your eyes peeled for the many quirky bronze statues that are dotted throughout the city, including Cumil, the watcher, Paparazzi, and the Napoleon soldier.

Traveling on a budget? Have you seen our cheap hostel recommendations for Vienna ?

#5 – Prague, Czech Republic

• A MUST for history buffs
• Outstanding architecture
• Delicious food and beer

At nearly four hours each way, a day trip from Vienna to Prague is a long one, but trust us when we say it’s totally worth it!

Prague is a city full of magic and mysticism. It’s one of the largest cities in Central Europe and it has a rich and diverse history. It is famous for it’s unique, medieval architecture, including the Prague Castle and Charles Bridge. Wander throughout Prague’s old town and get lost in the charming streets and winding alleys.

While exploring Prague, make sure you see the iconic Astronomical Clock; Josefov, the historic Jewish Ghetto; and, Prague’s Dancing House.

When you’re ready for a break, pop into a pub (or hospoda) and indulge in the Czech Republic’s favourite pastime: drinking beer!

#6 – Budapest, Hungary

• Great for architecture aficionados
• Incredible sightseeing
• Vibrant nightlife and cultural scenes

Budapest is without a doubt one of the most beautiful and enjoyable cities in Europe. It has a rich history and diverse attractions. And, at just three hours by train, a day trip from Vienna to Budapest is a great idea!

Culture vultures and history buffs will love exploring the castle district and seeing the Royal Palace and Fisherman’s Bastion, crossing the iconic Chain Bridge, and standing at the centre of Heroes Square.

Foodies will delight in exploring the Central Market Hall with its numerous stalls selling authentic Hungarian dishes and traditional sweets and treats.

For party animals, there’s nothing better than a night out at a Ruin bar. Set in abandoned buildings around town, Ruin bars are where you’ll find the best drinks, loudest music and the best parties in town.

Heading to Salzburg too? Save some money with our budget guide to Salzburg’s best hotels!

Staying Safe in Vienna

While Vienna is super safe, no matter where you are traveling, you NEED to have great travel insurance . We have personally tested TONS of travel insurance companies, and World Nomads is our favorite (and most affordable!).

Fill out the form below to get a quote so you can have a stress-free time traveling around Austria!

#7 – Wachau Valley

Day trips from vienna for couples.

• Picturesque natural landscapes
• Charming towns and villages
• Delightful wineries

The Wachau Valley is a picturesque area east of the capital. It is home to quaint towns and villages, amazing views, and some of the best epicurean activities in all of Austria.

The heart, soul and centre of Austria’s wine region, a day trip from Vienna to the Wachau Valley is a must for wine lovers. Here you can sip and sample some of Austria’s most prized dry Rieslings and Grüner Veltliners.

The area is also well known for its apricots, which are used in a variety of dishes and tarts, treats and sweets. Whether your palette prefers sweet or savoury, you’ll be spoilt for choice in the Wachau Valley.

Vienna has some INCREDIBLE sights! Take one of the top tours in Vienna  to really discover this city!

#8 – Danube Valley

• Romantic landscapes
• Quaint towns
• Exquisite vineyards

The Danube Valley is one of the most picturesque areas in Central Europe. Located just a couple of hours outside of Vienna, it is dotted with charming villages, steep vineyards and a number of ancient castles.

Couples looking for a romantic day trip from Vienna will love the Danube Valley. Not only is the drive out there spectacular, but upon arrival, you’ll be blown away by the hills and forests, colourful towns and rolling hills.

The Danube Valley is also home to a great number of hiking trails and tracks. Crisscross the forests and make your way up the mountains as you take in nature in all her glory.

Salzburg is Big! Don’t be overwhelmed though, check out our no-stress guide to where to stay in Salzburg !

#9 – Baden Bei Wien

• Great for a relaxing day out
• Incredible ruins
• Interesting museums and galleries

Baden Bei Wien is a small, historic town located 26 kilometres south of Vienna. It is famous for its thermal waters, baths and spas, and is an excellent day trip for couples.

Kick back and relax by visiting the Thermal Baths. In use since the imperial days, the Thermal Baths (Thermalstandbad) are one of the largest bathing facilities in the country. It has an artificial sand beach, stunning views and traditional spa treatments.

This small and enchanting town is also home to a number of historic attractions, including the ruins of Rauheneck and Rauenstein castles; Beethovenhaus, a 16th-century house where the composer spent the summers of 1821-1823; and the Rollettmuseum.

Editor’s Note: You can have a great time in Vienna staying at one of the top party hostels !

#10 – Brno, Czech Republic

• Great if you’re looking for a break from tourists
• A charming town with quaint streets and alleyways

Across the border in the Czech Republic is Brno . It is the largest city in the Moravia region and its heart and cultural.

Brno is easily accessed by bus or train, or if you’re travelling by car. It boasts a rich variety of historic attractions and cultural events, as well as pubs, clubs, theatres and restaurants. It has an ornate Town Hall, charming streets and plenty of museums to explore.

The Church of St. James is the most famous attraction in Brno. It dates back to the 13th century and is home to the Brno Ossuary, which is the second largest ossuary in Europe, behind only the Catacombs of Paris.

#11 – Cesky Krumlov, Czech Republic

• A stunning small city
• Magnificent castle

Enjoy a day trip from Vienna to Cesky Krumlov, one of the most beautiful towns in the Czech Republic.

Cesky Krumlov is an attractive town located in the Southern Bohemia region of the Czech Republic. The old town has remained relatively unchanged since the 18th century, so a walk down its quaint alleyways is literally taking a step back in time.

One of the town’s most popular attractions is the Cesky Krumlov State Castle and Chateau. Home to a museum, tower, theatre, gardens, cellars and countless sculptures, there’s plenty to see and do on this one site alone!

If you’re visiting in the summer rent a raft or tube and spend a lazy day floating down the Vltava river.

#12 – Bled, Slovenia

• Romantic scenery
• Ideal for shutterbugs
• An unforgettable day trip

For a romantic and unforgettable day trip from Vienna, there’s no better destination than Bled in Slovenia. Don’t let the name throw you off, Bled is a charming and quaint town surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, iconic scenery, and historic landmarks.

Lake Bled is undoubtedly the most famous attraction in the region. And, if you’ve spent any time on social media, you’re probably familiar with it. Sitting in the middle of the expanse of emerald green water is a small island with a bright white church perched on top. Hike down to the lake and snap a few epic pics of your very own.

Outdoor adventurers should pay a visit to nearby Triglav National Park. Packed with trails and tracks, here you can hike, trek, and swim in natural pools while enjoying amazing views.

#13 – Ljubljana, Slovenia

• A MUST for intrepid travellers
• Charming Old Town
• Exquisite sightseeing

Ljubljana is a charming old city full of history and culture. It is the capital and largest city in Slovenia and can be reached in less than four hours by car from Vienna.

Old Town is the jewel in Ljubljana’s crown. It is nestled between Castle Hill and the Ljubljanica River and is where you’ll find a myriad of shops and pubs, as well as landmarks and major sightseeing attractions. It is home to two beautiful squares, the Robba fountain, and is connected to “new town” via the Triple and Dragon Bridges.

Old Town is also home to a great variety of restaurants. While in Ljubljana, you must try a Slovene-style horse burger as well as a glass of local wine.

Recommended Article  – Take a look at our AMAZING guide to the best places to visit in Austria.

#14 – Schönbrunn Palace

Day trips from vienna with kids.

• Fun for the whole family
• A fast, easy and interesting day out

Schönbrunn Palace is one of the most iconic sights in Vienna and is a great day trip for families. Located 30 minutes via subway outside of the city, a day trip from Vienna to Schönbrunn Palace is easy, interesting and fun!

The palace is surrounded by lush landscape and manicured gardens. It is comprised of 1,441 lavishly decorated rooms and boasts exquisite exterior details. Schönbrunn Palace is one of the most important architectural, cultural and historic monuments in Austria and is the location of the Hapsburg summer palace.

Visitors can tour the apartments of Emperor Franz Joseph and Empress Elizabeth, as well as other parts of the palace. There is also a carriage museum, a zoo, and a park on the palace grounds.

If you are traveling you should ALWAYS have emergency cash hidden on you! Security belts are great because they are affordable and can fit a ton of stuff in them (great for peace of mind!). Check out our favorite travel belt!

#15 – Laxenburg

• Picturesque parks and castles
• Easy to get to
• Bursting with charm

Laxenburg is a small market town located 20 kilometres south of Vienna. It is famous for its massive parks, stunning castles and its scenic vistas.

The village’s most famous landmark is Laxenburg Castle, which was the second most important summer retreat of the Hapsburgs, following Schönbrunn Palace. Today the castle is home to a museum, which showcases various painting and furnishings.

Laxenburg is also where you’ll find one of the most incredible parks in the Vienna-area. This massive park is home to ancient castles and royal palaces, colourful rotundas and a beautiful lake, where swans and deer are frequently seen. The park also has nearly eight kilometres of hiking trails, ideal for exploring.

#16 – Salzkammergut Lake Region

• A MUST for nature lovers
• Lots of history and tradition
• Numerous outdoor activities

With 76 lakes, hiking and cycling trails, and breathtaking scenery, a day trip from Vienna to Salzkammergut Lake Region is a must for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers.

The region stretching from the city of Salzburg along the shores of the Traun River. It has massive limestone mountains, shimmering blue glacial lakes, and plenty of towns and villages to explore. It’s a region where tradition and custom hold true and is where you should go for a slice of traditional Austrian life.

Salzkammergut is a mecca for hiking and trekking. Throughout the hills are a great variety of hiking and biking trails, perfect for adventurers of all ages and levels.

#17 – Vienna Woods

• Great for outdoor enthusiasts
• Incredible views of the city
• An easy day trip from Vienna

Located on the western edge of the Vienna Basin is the lush and verdant Vienna Woods. The “green lungs of the city,” the Vienna Woods are packed with trails, activities and attractions that are perfect for the whole family.

Pack a picnic and head out for a day of hiking. The woods boasts a vast network of well-marked trails and paths. Whether you’re a newbie hiker or an experienced outdoors person, there’s a trail that’s ideal for you.

Bird-watchers and animal spotters beware! The Vienna Woods are home to 150 different species of birds and many endangered animals. Keep your eyes peeled as you trek through the woods because you never know just what you’ll see.

#18 – Lainzer Wildlife Park

• Great for animals lovers
• A unique and unforgettable experience
• Incredible photo opportunities

Lainzer Wildlife Park is a stunning nature reserve built on the Emperor’s former private hunting grounds. Covering 24.5 square kilometres, the Lainzer Wildlife Park is where you can see and interact with some of your favourite animals.

The Park is home to thousands of animals. In the summer, you can frequently see wild pigs, deer, elk and other animals frolicking through the woods and grasslands.

For a truly unique experience, time your visit to coincide with the 2 PM daily feedings. Your little ones won’t believe their eyes when hundreds of animals arrive for their afternoon snack.

#19 – Hohe Wand

• Petting zoos and playgrounds
• Cliffs to climb on
• Caves to explore

Hohe Wand is a paradise for travellers with children. Located in the Gutenstein Alps, this park has everything from towering cliffs to deep caves, colourful playgrounds and animal adventures.

For younger travellers, Hohe Wand is has a number of man-made attractions to keep them entertained. It has a semi-natural playground and a petting zoo where they can run, jump, laugh and play with their new animal friends.

For older kids, Hohe Wand has a myriad of adventures include the Skywalk, rock climbing and more than 225 caves to explore. The Unicorn Cave is the most famous on the mountain and it features stalagmites that measure more than one meter tall!

Conclusion to the Best Day Trips from Vienna

Vienna isn’t just one of the most incredible and amazing cities in Europe. But, it’s a fantastic jumping off point for exploring more of Austria and Central Europe. Whether you’re travelling by train, bus or by car, there are plenty of towns and villages packed with history, culture, food and fun for you to explore.

With the help of this guide, you’ll know exactly where to go and what to see on your day trip from Vienna. With options for families, couples and everyone in between, you’ll have lots of variety for excursions and activities!

Have we missed anything? Let us know in the comments below!

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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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12 Stunning Day Trips from Vienna

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

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

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

Read | 2 Days in Vienna, Austria

Table of Contents

11 Day Trips from Vienna, Austria

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

Contributed by Marina of PlacesofJuma

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

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

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

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

Contributed by Cazzy of Dream Big, Travel Far

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

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

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

Contributed by Vaibhav Mehta from The Wandering Vegetable

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

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

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

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

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

Contributed by Laura of Cruise Lifestyle

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Contributed by Lina of World of Lina

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

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

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

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

South Styria

Contributed by Lori of Travelinmad

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

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

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

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

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

Bratislava, Slovakia

Contributed by Matt from Two Tickets To

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

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

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

Budapest, Hungary

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

Read | 3 Day Itinerary for Budapest, Hungary

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

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

Brno, Czech Republic

Contributed by Melissa from Parenthood and Passports

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

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

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

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

Prague, Czech Republic

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

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

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

Read | 3 Days Wandering Medieval Prague

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

Wachau Valley

Contributed by Anjali from Travel Melodies

Listed as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Region,  Wachau Valley  in Lower Austria is about an hour away from Vienna that makes it a perfect day-trip destination from Vienna. 

Located between the historic towns of Melk and Krems, Wachau is a narrow stretch (about 22-miles) along the Danube River lined with beautiful vineyards and orchards, charming hamlets, lush rolling hills, forests, imposing castles, abbeys, and medieval ruins.

The easiest and the recommended way to reach Wachau from Vienna is by car. It gives you the freedom to stop wherever and whenever you want. Other options include ÖBB train or a combination of bus and train or Wachau Cruise.

The best places to visit in Wachau are  Krems ,  Dürnstein ,  Aggstein Castle , and  Melk Abbey . One of Europe’s largest Baroque monasteries, Melk Abbey, is stunningly gorgeous and the most impressive site on this trip. Wine lovers wouldn’t want to miss the wine tour.  Domäne Wachau  offers wine tours that include local wine-tasting at the end.

How can you leave one of Europe’s top culinary regions before you sample some of its famous delicacies? You must try  Benedictine Torte  at  Stifts-restaurant  in Melk Abbey,  Wachauer Kugeln  at  Konditorei Raimitz  in Krems, and a glass of wine with a traditional dinner at  Heuriger Höllmül .

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

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

Austria ‎ > Vienna   > Top Day & Side Trips From Vienna  

Top 10 Vienna Tips | Suggested Itineraries For Vienna

• Top 10 Things To Do
• Old Town Walking Tour
• Ring Tram Tour
• Schönbrunn Palace
• More Sights
• Best Day Trips
• Helfpful Visitor Tips
• Suggested Itineraries

Top Day Trips From Vienna:

If you find yourself looking for something to do outside on Vienna it can be a little daunting, but we’re here to help.  We have come up with a great list of the best day trips to take from Vienna and more importantly how you actually get to each place.  You can easily see any of these and still get back to Vienna the same day or choose to fit these in as a side trip on the way to your next destination.  Enjoy our list of the top day trips from Vienna Austria!

Train Tickets & Transportation Info:

These top day trips from Vienna are very easy to do by yourself with the convenient Austrian train system.  To help with planning your transportation, the  National Austrian Railway Website  ( website ) has all of the regional Train/Bus routed, timetable information, and online tickets.  For short day trips the full fare will only be around 5€ round-trip a person, for medium length trips like Melk it is around 34€ round-trip per adult, and for longer trips the price goes up to around 80€ round-trip per adult to Budapest or 110€ for Salzburg.

If you are able to book any medium to longer day trips in advance they-they have special  Sparschiene fares  that can be discounted up to 80% off the full fare.  The special Sparschiene fares can be booked starting 6 months in advance on the National Train website, but because there is a limited number sold per train, you will typically need to buy them at least 30-45 days or sooner ahead your journey before they are sold out.  If you need more advanced schedule options or want to force the route to only looking for buses or certain types of trains you need to use the rail company’s advanced booking engine ( website ).

Day Trips From Vienna:

1. liechtenstein castle ( mödling, austria – 20 mins away ):.

About Liechtenstein Castle : Liechtenstein ( light-in-stone ) Castle was built in 1130 and stands tall in Medieval glory just a short day trip from Vienna in the Austrian countryside.  If you’ve seen the hit 1993 movie The Three Musketeers , then you’ve seen the historic Burg Liechtenstein which was predominately featured in the film.

The castle was owned early on by the famous Liechtenstein family before changing hands and expanding several times over hundreds of years.  It’s actually amazing that the castle is standing at all as it was sacked by the Ottomans ( Turks ) in both 1529 and 1683 before partially sitting in ruin.  The current ticket desk actually sits inside a tower ruined by the Ottomans.  When the Liechtenstein family regained control of the property in 1807, it was restored and expanded as part of the Historicism ( Romanticism ) movement to serve as a museum showing off idealized Medieval architecture .  Surviving further plunder in WW2, today the castle is available for tours and is one of the only privately owned castles in Austria.

We especially love the approach leading up to Burg Liechtenstein as the mighty castle slowly rises above the trees the closer you get to it.  The backdrop is stunning, but there is also a lot to see inside the castle tour during your day trip from Vienna.  The chapel ( still active ) is maybe the most fascinating space in the castle as it is original to 1130 and still has elements of red wall paintings from the 1200s including one of the crucifixion of Jesus.  It also houses a relic claimed to be a thorn of Jesus’s crown of thorns from Sainte-Chapelle in Paris.

You’ll find many other elements from the original Romanesque castle structure including a toilet, fireplace, and cistern during your tour of Burg Liechtenstein.  Some of the rooms also have interesting statues from the 1300s, the Squire Hall ( Knappensaal ) has interesting architectural details, the bedrooms have princess balconies overlooking the valley, and the small treasury is nice with a hand-made replica of the Liechtenstein royal crown.  Our favorite room though is the Knights’ Hall ( Rittersaal ) which was created during the more modern Historicism era and looks like it is straight out of a movie set.  A hidden gem in the Knights’ Hall is a stone sleeping alcove in the wall that dates back to the 1100s and is one of the oldest beds in Austria.

Getting Here : From Vienna take the Underground Metro to Vienna’s Meidling Train Station on the Southside of town and take a local train to Mödling.  Trains leave the station about 10 times an hour and the ride is only 15 minutes south of Vienna.  At the Mödling Train Station, you take Bus 262 right to the entrance ( Siedlungsstraße stop ) which is a 6-minute walk to the Castle.  We have also had success using Uber between Mödling Station and the castle.

Visiting Hours :  You can see the outside of the castle and take photos any time of day, but you can only go inside as part of a group tour which has been run since the 1800-s.   Guided Tour Hours :  50 Minute guided tours at the top of every hour.  January & February Saturday at 11am; March-October Daily 10am-4pm ( extended to 5pm July & August ); November Daily 11am-2pm; December Weekends Noon-2pm.  They also take advanced bookings year-round for additional tour times/days.  The Treasury tour is every Saturday at 12:30pm.  Tour Cost :  9€ for Adults; 6€ for kids; Families 25€.   Advanced Booking :  To book in advance email them here [email protected].   Special Tours : The Castle has a ton of private tour options ranging from 12-20€ and they are really cool.  They typically require that you pay for 5+ people but have tours that take you to the top of the tower for wine tastings, cool night tours, and much more.   Facebook Page :  ( HERE ).   Castle Website :  ( HERE ).

2. Seegrotte Hinterbrühl ( Mödling, Austria – 20 Mins Away ):

About Seegrotte Hinterbrühl :  While in the area you might as well take a boat ride on Europe’s largest underground lake, Seegrotte Hinterbrühl.  Starting in the late 1800’s Seegrotte was actually a large thriving  gypsum mine  which had grown into several levels with dozens of rooms.  One of our favorite rooms is the large Festival Ballroom in the upper chamber where all of the miners would gather every December 4th to celebrate the mine’s anniversary and their good luck.  That luck ran on during an unfortunate blasting operation in 1912 which let over  5 million gallons of water  in, flooding most of the mine.

The water had come from 7 underground springs with no natural drain and basically ended all future mining at Hinterbrühl.  It wasn’t until WW2 that anyone starting pumping water out of the mine and it was totally drained by the Nazi’s.  With the secrecy of the newly created cave, the  manufacturing of the airplanes  ( Jetfighter “Heinkel HE 162” ) was done by 2000 concentration camp prisoners under control of Nazi engineers.  Shortly after the Nazis lost WW2 the mine was opened as a tourist attraction with tours.

Because the underground springs had no drainage, the mine became to fill up again re-creating the lake on the mine’s lower level.  The caretakers were prepared and have been pumping out excess water daily to keep the water level even.  In some places, in the lower chamber the water gets up to over 30 feet deep, but most of the upper level is kept completely dry.  Today over 250,000 people a year visit Seegrotte Hinterbrühl getting not only tours of the old mining and plane manufacturing operations but also boat rides on the crystal clear underground lake itself.  A visit really is a unique experience and it is no wonder that the lake old mine has been featured in numerous films including the hit movie  The Three Musketeers  in 1993.

Getting Here From  Lichtenstein Castle :  Hinterbrühl is only a 1km ( 10 minutes ) walk from the entrance to Lichtenstein Castle making the two places easy to visit together.  There are a couple authentic restaurants between the two places if you want to grab a bite to eat.   Getting Here From  Vienna :  From Vienna take the Underground Metro to Vienna’s Meidling Train Station on the Southside of town and take a local train right to Mödling.  Trains leave about 10 times an hour and the ride is only 15 minutes south of Vienna.  At the Mödling Train Station, you take either Bus 364 or 365 right to the entrance.

Hours : April-October daily 9am-5pm; November-May Weekdays 9am-3pm plus Weekends 9am-330pm.   Guided  Tours : Cost 10€; leaves every 20 minutes; lasts 45 minutes; Tour includes: the cavernous lake, rooms that the miners used as a chapel, wine cellar, and common room.   Lake Website :  ( HERE ).

3. Kreuzenstein Castle ( 27 to 60 Mins Away ):

About Kreuzenstein Castle :  With powerful towers, a huge drawbridge, and an impressive collection of Medieval armor, Kreuzenstein Castle is an amazing day trip from Vienna.  There has been a hilltop fort at the site of today’s fortress since long before modern Vienna was founded.  By the 1100s the fort had grown into the large Castle Grizanstein with views of the Danube River.  On a clear day, views across the Danube let you see the towers of Castle Greifenstein, Klosterneuburg Monastery from 1136, as well as Leopoldsberg which was the site of a Celtic fort dating back to 400 BC.

The famous Habsburg Royal Family owned Kreuzenstein Castle for 250 years prior to it being overrun in 1645 by the Swiss Army during the 30 Years War.  The Polish Noble family Wilczek took control of the castle ruins in 1702 but it took 172 years for the family to start rebuilding it.  The family was extremely wealthy thanks to its Silesian coal mines in Prussia. With an endless budget, Count Johann Wilczek rebuilt the fortress to serve as the family vault and renamed it Kreuzenstein Castle.

In addition to his family fortune, Johann had a lot of influence as an explorer and as the Chamberlain at the court of Emperor Franz Joseph I which gave him even more resources.  The Count had huge portions of Medieval buildings from other properties they family owned moved to the Castle which kept the new complex very authentic to Medieval times.  The huge castle complex grew to hold a priceless library, amazing works of art, and with more than 100,000 objects.  It also gained Austria’s largest private collection of weapons .

A fire in 1915 and shelling during WW2 has damaged some of the artifacts over time, but much of it is still well preserved.  In 2012 the castle was featured in the TV series World Without End which was the sequel to hit series Pillars of the Earth .  With an amazing wall, courtyards, moat, secret tunnels, and a powerful central castle with a drawbridge, Kreuzenstein Castle sure is a treat to visit.

Getting To The Castle From Vienna :  From the Wien Floridsdorf Train Station it is a quick 20-28 minutes to Leobendorf-Burg Kreuzenstein Station (5€ round-trip), but then requires a 35-minute walk over to the castle which is well marked.  It is only 27 minutes from Vienna by car to the castle parking lot.

Visiting Hours :  Daily April-October 10am-4pm; Sundays until 5pm; Closed November-March.  45 Minute guided tours at the top of every hour.   Cost : Adults 10€; Kids 5€.   Castle Website :  ( HERE ).

Rating as a Day Trip From Vienna :  10 out of 10.  If it was open year round it would easily be our top side trip from Vienna.

4. Salzburg, Austria ( 2 Hours & 20 Minutes Away ):

About Salzburg :  Salzburg is the home of Mozart, the beautiful Mirabell Gardens & Palace, and the location for The Sound of Music.  Located in the heart of the Alps, Salzburg is a great spot for a day trip just a few miles from Berchtesgaden.  While it does make a great day trip, we recommend 2-3 full days in Salzburg to be able to see the old town sites, Sound of Music Sites, and surrounding towns of Hallstatt & Werfen.  The top things to do in Salzburg are the  Old Town Walking Tour ,  Schonbrunn Palace , and the   Sound of Music Movie Locations Tour  which cover dozens of must-see attractions around this timeless city.

Getting To Salzburg From Vienna :  It is a very easy and direct 2 hour and 22 minute train ride to Salzburg making it a doable day trip from Vienna.  Trains leave every 25-30 minutes starting at 5:30am meaning you can leave early, nap on the train, and get to Salzburg by 8am.  There is a lot of flexibility at the last train back to Vienna leaves at 10pm.  Tickets are only 24€ each way if you buy more than a week in advance ( 2-4 weeks is better ) or it’s 54€ each way on short notice.

Rating as a Side Trip From Vienna :  9 out of 10.  If you are able to spend 2-3 days in Salzburg you will love it even more.

View Our Salzburg Section : ( HERE ).

5. Danube River Cruise To Wachau Valley :

About The Wachau Valley :  The Wachau Valley is one of the most scenic areas to travel as a day trip from Vienna.  The banks of the mighty Danube River are littered with castles, small charming villages, and some of the best vineyards in Austria.  While many visitors ( especially retired ones ) visit the area for the famous fortified Melk Abbey, we feel that it is a little overrated by itself unless you do a Danube River cruise to see the rest of the Wachau Valley with it.

6. Melk Abbey ( Melk, Austria – 50 Mins Away ):

About Melk Abbey : Perched on a bluff above the Danube River , the fortified Melk Abbey is one of the true gems of Austria.  Not only is the Abbey one of the best Baroque buildings in Austria, but knowing the history gives you better insight into the founding of Vienna, making it an excellent side trip.  The village along with the Melk Abbey can be seen as a standalone day trip from Vienna but is even more enjoyable as part of a Danube River cruise, especially along the Wachau Valley.

The history of the abbey started when Bavaria pushed their territory East against the Hungarians ( Magyar ) and this bluff became the home to the first Margrave of Austria, Leopold I ( House Babenberg ), who built his castle here in 976.  Leopold I’s noble family line expanded the Babenberger Castle in Melk and filled it with valuable treasures and relics.  After 100 years, the  Babenberger started moving their family further East ( eventually to Vienna in 1146 ) and gave their castle to the Benedictine monks who have continually been living and working in Melk Abbey ( former castle ) since 1089.

Because the Babenbergers became the first Dukes of Austria ( 1146-1246 ), Melk Abbey was allowed to thrive.  Although it did suffer from a fire in 1297, the Abbey became an important place under Papal decree during the Council of Constance of 1414 .  Building onto the former castle over the centuries, much of the amazing Baroque-style monastery you see today was completed from 1702-1736.  The towering red-roofed yellow monastery is quite intimidating as you approach it from the village of Melk.  The yellow paint like Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna is iconic of the Hapsburg family who ruled Austria from 1278-1918.

The inside of the Abbey is just as impressive as the outside with its marble floors, golden accents, and  lavishly painted ceilings .  The marble spiral staircase, gothic church, mummified displays, and grand halls are very impressive.  The Hapsburg Emperors loved to visit the Abbey and today a lavish museum is located inside their former private rooms on the property.  From the balconies at the Abbey, you will get a great view of the gardens plus the Danube River and surrounding countryside.

Our favorite room is the frescoed library packed with over 100,000 and looks like it is from Beauty and the Beast.  In 1997 fragments of the medieval hero epic from the 13th Century called the Nibelungen Saga (“ kneeble-lew-gen zaga “) were discovered in the library.  Other texts and manuscripts kept here date back to the 9th Century. The famous library was also the impression for Umberto Eco’s best-selling book Name of the Rose ( 1980 ) being set in the Melk Abbey during the 1300s.  This book inspired the 1986 movie starring Sean Connery and a 2019 mini-series of the same name.

The village of Melk’s cobblestone streets and Town Hall ( Rathaus ) from the 1500s are quite enjoyable. Melk’s oldest home is the vine-covered House at the Rock ( House at the Rock ) from the 1400s.  Just down the river from Melk Abbey is the waterfront  Schonbuhel Castle which was built in the 1100s on the site of a former Roman fortress.  The castle was controlled by the Starhemberg family starting in 1396 for over 400 years before falling into disrepair.

Getting To Melk Abbey From Vienna : While Melk Abbey is included in most Danube River Cruises, it can also be reached as a standalone day trip from Vienna by local train.  Trains leave every 20-30 miles and though the distance is only 55 miles straight half the trains take 60 minutes and the other takes 90 so check the train schedule .  The walk up the hill from the Train Station takes 10-15 minutes.   Travel Note :  If you are heading other cities further West ( like Salzburg ) after visiting Melk, you have to backtrack to either Amstetten or St.Pölten ( 20 minutes away ) to switch the national rail line.  Although it seems weird, since the National rail line goes right through town Melk doesn’t directly connect to the West.

Entrance Cost : Adults 10€; Students 5.50€; Family 20€.  Add 2€ for guided tours.  Gardens only are 4€.   Visiting Hours : May-October 9am-6pm; Rest of the year you may only enter as part of a tour.   Guided Tours : April-October 10am & 2:55pm in English; November-March 11am & 2pm in English; you can reserve ahead of time by emailing [email protected].  Tours last 1 hour and the average visit is 2 hours.   Abbey Website : ( HERE ).

Rating as a Day Trip From Vienna :  7 out of 10 by itself, but a 9 out of 10 as part of a Danube River cruise from Vienna.

7. Castle Franzensburg ( 30-60 Minutes ):

About Franzensburg Castle : The area around Franzenburg Castle ( known as Laxenburg ) almost feels like a little village.  It started being built out in 1333 when the Hapsburgs created a hunting lodge on the wooded grounds ( today called Altes Schloss ).  They the 1700s the grounds had expanded into a large English garden-style park and pleasure grounds nicknamed Laxenburg Castle Park.  Emperor Franz Joseph

Our favorite building in the castle park is the dreamy Franzenburg Castle.  Built on a small artificial island in 1801, the castle was named after Francis II who was the last Holy Roman Emperor ( until 1806, died in 1835 ).  Austria Emperor Franz Joseph I ( reign 1848-1916 ) spent many of his youthful Summers at the grounds and even spent his honeymoon with wife Sisi here in 1854.  This marriage was a big deal as it joined the Austria Hapsburgs to the Bavarian Wittelsbachs.  Sisi was beloved for her beauty but was also a great diplomat who helped her husband to secure the joining of the Austria-Hungary Empire in 1867.

The views of the castle reflecting in the lake are stunning but you can also cross the plank bridge across the water to a picture-perfect gate tower to see the inside.  We also love renting one of the electric boats in the Summer to glide around the water in relaxing silence.  In the Winter there is ice staking available on the frozen lake.

Getting Here From Vienna :  From Karlsplatz take the U1 Subway to the Hauptbahnhof Train Station ( 2 stops 3 minutes ) then take Bus 200 to Laxenburg Franz-Joseph-Platz ( 13 stops, 30 minutes ) and walk through the castle park.  Entrance Cost : The park is 1.50€, bridge to the castle is 1€, bost rental 12€.

8. Hermesvilla & Vienna Woods ( 1 Hour Away ):

About Hermesvilla :  Hermesvilla is a stunning rural Royal getaway at the edge of the Vienna Woods.  It was built on a stretch of imperial hunting grounds by Emperor Franz Joseph as a gift to his wife Sisi.  Nicknamed the Castle of Dreams, the countryside villa was elaborately designed to try to encourage Sisi ( who was constantly traveling ) to spend more time near Vienna .

After it was completed the villa was named Hermes after a marble statue of the Greek god ( son of Zeus ) and guardian which still sits in the gardens of the estate.  Such care was taken with the grounds that the Emperor even had all the tiny molehills flattened so his wife would have smoother surfaces to ride her horse.

It was her love of travel that was ultimately Sisi’s downfall as in 1898 she was assassinated while visiting Geneva, Switzerland.  This was a sign of things to come for the royal family as they would often be targets including the murder of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria while visiting Sarajevo in 1914 which led to the start of WW1.

Today the grounds and surrounding area serve as a wonderful nature preserve that will leave you feeling like you are a world away from Vienna.  The Vienna Woods as it’s known is a relaxing and even majestic place to hike.

Gettings Here From Vienna : Take the U4 Subway from Karlsplatz to Ober Saint Viet ( 11 stops, 15 minutes ) then the Bus 54A or 54B to Stock Im Weg ( 8 stops, 9 minutes ) and walk up the hill ( 20 minutes ).

9. Budapest, Hungary ( 2.5 Hours Away ):

About Budapest :  Just a few hours by train, this mighty city on the Danube makes for a great 2 day getaway from Vienna. If needed you can cram the sights of the Pest Monuments and Castle Hill into one long day, but we highly recommend being here for 2-3 days so you can also spend time on the Jewish quarter and City Park. To see more on his city please check out our Budapest section .

Getting To Budapest From Vienna :  Train connects these two capitals’ city centers directly.  Make sure to check the schedule and take the 2 hours and 45 minutes Railjet train instead of the slow 4 hour REX one.   Rating as a Side Trip From Vienna :  6 out of 10.  You can only get a small taste of Budapest in a 1 day, but it becomes a 10 out of 10 if you can stay a bit longer.  You really need 3-4 full days to see it all and fit in the nearby Danube Bend.

View Our Budapest Section : ( HERE ).

10. Hallstatt Village & Salt Mine ( 3.5-4 Hours Away ):

About Hallstatt :  What in the world is a village almost 4 hours away doing on this top day trips from Vienna list?  Normally something 4 hours away wouldn’t count as a side trip but Hallstatt is an excellent stop on your way from Vienna to Salzburg.  We love taking a full day to explore the Village and the nearby Ice Caves.  Hallstatt is our favorite city in all of Austria and really is one you should fit in your schedule.

There was a Hallstatt before there was a Rome and it is just about as cute of an ancient alpine village as you’ll find anywhere.  Hallstatt is compact, full of history, and an absolutely beautiful lakeside village.  Just walking around the village streets can be amazing and we’ve put together a  Free Hallstatt Walking Tour  for you to follow to make sure you see all the top sights.  The main highlights include the colorful  Market Square , the creepy painted skulls of the  Bone Chapel , and a boat ride on the lake.  If you end up with the extra time we also suggest visiting the World’s oldest  Salt Mine  sitting just above the city which over 7,000 years old.

Getting To Hallstatt From Vienna :  Take the OBB train line to Attnang-Puchheim ( 2 hours & 10 minutes, has bag lockers ), switch trains and take the local REX to the Hallstatt Station ( 70 Minutes ), and lastly take a short ferry across the lake ( 15 Minutes ).   Please Note :  The Salt Mine and Ice Cave are closed in the Winter and re-open each April.

Rating as a Side Trip From Vienna :  6 out of 10 if you actually plan on returning to Vienna the same day due to the time involved.  However, if you are using Hallstatt as a stop on your way from Vienna to Salzburg it is easily a 10 out of 10.

View Our Hallstatt Section : ( HERE ).

11. Bratislava, Solvakia ( 1 Hour Away ):

About Bratislava :  We don’t have anything against Bratislava, but there just isn’t much to do here. There is a bland palace in the center of Old Town over the site of the former Bratislava Castle, but it is pretty blah.  There is one building be like in the middle of town called the Kaštieľ v Prievoze which was a mansion built for Count Eugen Čáki in 1902 and is now owned by the city.

Between Vienna and Bratislava are the ruins of Devin Castle and the former site of the large Roman camp Carnuntum which in 100AD was ten times larger then Vindobona ( Vienna ) with 50,000 troops. It is interesting to note that Vienna and Bratislava are the closest major capitals to each other in the World at just 40 miles apart.  If you are going to be nit-picky, they are really the 3rd closest, but we aren’t counting the city-state of the Vatican City being inside Rome or the shanty town capital of Brazzaville in Africa being across the river from Kinshasa as major capitals.

Getting Here From Vienna :  Trains from Vienna to Bratislava depart from Wien Sudbanhof at frequent regular intervals, arriving in  Bratislava Main Station  or Bratislava Petrzalka. Both stations are close to the downtown, easily accessible by  public transport  or  taxi .   Rating as a Side Trip From Vienna :  5 out of 10. There just isn’t much to do here.

12. Mauthausen Concentration Camp Memorial ( 2.5 Hours Away ):

About Mauthausen Concentration Camp :  Memorial site of the Mauthausen Concentration Camp ( Gedenkstätte Mauthausen ) is a great taste of dark Nazi history for anyone traveling between Vienna and Salzburg who may not have the time to visit Dachau near Munich.  This site was selected due to its onsite granite quarry so the imprisoned people could serve as slave labor.

The  Stairs of Death  are known as a spot of torture where prisoners were forced to carry stones heavier than their own body weight all the way up, only to be pushed off the adjacent cliff by SS Guards to their death.  They would also line prisoners up on the top of the quarry cliff and then force them to push each other off.  Even worse than the slave labor, cliffs antics, and even gas chambers was the SS Guard who would cut off prisoners tattoos to use the skin as lamp shades.

During its time of operation, over 100,000 prisoners were killed at this death camp.  Not too far from Mauthausen under the beautiful Augustine Monastery is the creepy Saint Florian Ossuary.  In the center of the room is the free-standing tomb of Anton Bruckner, but around it is a orderly collection of the skulls/bones of 6,000 people.

Getting Here From Vienna :  From Vienna’s Westbahnhof Train Station take a local train toward Mauthausen.  You’ll have transfer trains either at St. Valentin or Linz depending on your departure time, so check the  train schedule .  Either way, you’ll get right to Mauthausen train station, just make sure to take departure that has 2 hours in total travel time as certain departures have a long layover.  From the Mauthausen train station, the Camp is either a long 5km walk or 3km cheap taxi.

Entrance Cost :  Free, not recommended for kids under 14 years old.   Visiting Hours :  May-June Daily from 9am-5:30pm. July-October Tuesday-Sunday 9am-5:30pm, Closed Mondays.  November-April  Tuesday-Sunday 9am-3:30pm, Closed Mondays.   Guided Tours :  Guide tours are available but pricey at 40€ per person. Alternative you can get the 75 minute audio tour for Free after a refundable 40€ per headset deposit.  It is easy enough to share a headset between a couple people.   Mauthausen Website : ( HERE ).

13. Capuchin Monastery Crypt ( Brno, Czech Republic – 2 Hours Away ):

About Brno :  Brno is of the  Capuchin Monastery  with its eerie crypt of Monks.  The Capuchin Monks would put their dead in a coffin during each funeral procession, but afterward would lay the bodies in the crypt to be able to re-use the coffin and save money.  They did this from 1400 into the 1700’s until it was outlawed and the crypt was closed.

Although they didn’t mean for it to happen, the perfect air conditions in the crypt mummified the last 24 monks they buried here which have become quite a tourist attraction.  The Monks are neatly lined up in rows, their heads rest on original brick pillows, and are so well preserved you can still see their robes and the rosaries they are holding.

Fairly close to the Capuchin Monastery is the second largest ossuary in Europe which sits beneath  St. James Church . The bones of over 50,000 people were buried here before it was sealed up in the 1700’s in favor of cemetery burials.  The ossuary lay forgotten under the church until a local historian re-discovered it in 2000.  It took them a number of years to make it safe for visitors as due to bacteria that formed when they opened it, but today it is truly awesome to visit.  The only ossuary bigger are the catacombs in Paris, France.

Some of the other highlights are the  Church Of St Peter & St Paul  ( Petroy ), which looks has large Gothic towers just like the Church of Our Lady in front of Týn in Prague, and the modest  Špilberk Castle  which offers great views of the city.  A very popular side trip if staying in Brno is the  Veveří Castle   which has been owned by royals, nobles and even served as a hunting lodge.  Many tourists take the train half way there, hike the rest and take the steamboat along the river back to Prague.

Getting Here From Vienna :  Brno is the second largest city in the Czech Republic and sits right on the main train route from Prague to both Budapest and Vienna.  The Trains go city center to city center and it takes about 3 hours to get to Brno from Prague.  Costs is roughly CZK 360 round trip.   Visiting The Capuchin Monastery :  February 15th-December 14th Tuesday-Sunday 9am-Noon & 1-4:30pm; Only open on Mondays May-September; Closed all of  December 15th-February 14th.  The Monastery sits on Capuchin Square near the Cabbage Market.   Visiting The St. James Church :   Tuesday- Sunday 9:30am-6pm; Closed  Mondays.  Costs is CZK 140.

15. Heiligenbrunn, Austria ( 2.5 Hours Away ):

About Heiligenbrunn :  If you want the hidden gem of Austria, the village of Heiligenbrunn is it.  Prague may be known by tourists as the most Medieval town in Europe, but Heiligenbrunn gives it a run for the money.  The town itself only has 1,000 residents, 2 hotels, no castles or fortifications, but it has a personality to boot.

Historically the village is most well known for it’s cute, thatched-roofed, hobbit style houses, but don’t underestimate the wine.  The wine, made as early as 1225 AD, was once banned for being too strong, but today it’s perfect and you’ll find grape vines growing in all sorts of places.  The Basement or Kellerviertel is an awesome straw stellar which has been preserved as a living reminder of Heliligenbrunn’s wine culture.  We highly recommend stopping by Ulrich’s Chapel as its bubbling spring is said to have curing powers, especially for the eyes.

Getting Here From Vienna :  From Vienna’s Wien Secession Bus Station ( Friedrichstraße ) take Bus G1 directly to Heligenbrunn in 2 1/2 hours.  Make sure to check the schedule as some options require a transfer to bus 1862 that will bring your total travel time up to 3 1/2 hours.

Rating as a Side Trip From Vienna :  4 out of 10 because of travel but an 8 out of 10 with a car or overnight stay.  The more we think about Heligenbrunn the cooler it is to visit a tiny village, in the middle of nowhere, stuck back in time, and off the the normal tourist track.  Staying overnight can be very relaxing.

14. Hardegg Castle ( 1 Hour 45 mins Away ):

About Hardegg Castle :  Stunning riverside castle overlooking the Austrian-Czborderrder from a hilltop perch.  It was first built in the 1100s and has luckily stood the test of time.  It may not be as cool as the other castles around Vienna, but is still a good visit for castle lovers.  The grounds are open for the public to free roam most days but to see the private collection of arms you must arrange a tour ahead of time with requires 20 or more guests.

Getting Here From Vienna :  70 minute local train to Retz then Bus 1255 takes you right to the Castle in about 1 hour and 45 minutes total. Make sure to check the schedule as a couple times a day there is a 45 minute layover waiting for the bus. Only 90 minutes by car.

Rating as a Side Trip From Vienna :  5 out of 10.  It is actually a very interesting place, but there are cooler castles near Vienna to see first.  If there weren’t better castles nearby this one would maybe be a 7 out of 10.

16. Eggenburg Beinhaus ( 2 Hours Away ):

About Eggenburg Beinhaus :  Crypt containing the bones of 5,800 Austrians arranged in an artistic manner. It was written about as early as 1299 AD and a majority of the current crypt was built in 1405 AD. Because the bones are so old, you can only look at the crypt through a large glass wall and can no longer walk among them, but they are impressive still.  The only downfall is the window you look through to see it is small and often dirty but after dark, you can flip a light on to see it better.

Getting Here From Vienna :  2-hour train right to Eggenburg and a 10-minute walk to the Beinhaus next to Pfarrkirche Church. Can get here by car in just 50 minutes.   Rating as a Side Trip From Vienna :  5 out of 10.

17. Römerstadt Carnuntum ( 70 Minutes Away ):

About Carnuntum :  While Vienna was once the Roman fort of Vindobona ( 97-433AD ), it was the larger city of Carnuntum ( 40-395AD ) that was the regional capital on the Northen border of the Roman Empire.  It’s said that Emperor Tiberius was the first Legion group to reach the area in 6AD where he camped with as many as 40,000 troops.  In as early as 40AD Carnuntum started to become permanently fortified as a military camp and training area.

By 80-120AD Carnuntum had grown into a full city with a walled civilian suburb next near the fort.  The early city was complete with a legionary fort ( castra ), public forum, temple buildings, governor’s palace, thermal baths, two large amphitheaters, and a population of over 50,000 including troops.  Much of the growth was fueled by the city’s location on the Danube River where the East-West Limes Road ( connecting northern Roman forts ) and the North-South Amber Road trade route ( from the Baltic Sea to Rome ) met.

Carnuntum may be the most famous as the place where Emperor Septimius Severus was crowned in 193 after Commodus had been slain and that Julianus tried to claim the throne.  This is often referred to as the Year of the Five Emperors or the Ides of August.  Septimius Severus had been in line for succession to Marcus Aurelius ( 161-180, died in Vienna ) and Commodus ( 177-92 ).

As the Huns invaded as far west into the Roman region as Castra Constantias ( modern-day Budapest ), it broke down the Limes Road and Carnuntum was sacked by Germanic tribes ( Goths ) in 395AD ( abandoned by 433 ).  Luckily ruins from the Roman city have been preserved as a living museum thanks to  excavations ongoing since 1877.   Today you can visit the base of the Civilian Colosseum ( Zivilstadt ,  seated 13,000 ), the Military Colosseum ( Militärstadt,  seated 8,000 ), numerous stone foundations, a city senate ( curia ), some preserved floor mosaics, reconstructed buildings ( citizen’s house, upscale urban villa, public baths, barracks ), and ruins of the Heidentor Gate.  The four portal Heidentor Gate was built as a huge triumphal gate in 324AD by Emperor Constantius II to commemorate his victories.

Thanks to modern laser scanning, they were able to find and partially reconstruct the remains of a wooden gladiator school next to the Civilian Colosseum ( Zivilstadt ) in 2011.  They got the tip to scan in the area after finding some documents dating back to the time of Emperor Hadrian ( reign 117-138AD ) which mentioned the 40-60  person gladiator school next to the ancient civilian stadium.

A short walk away is the large Petronell Palace which was a castle built in 1660 that has been restored after sitting vacant for decades.  They often have actors dressed in Roman gear and have a big festival once a year to show what life was like here in 333AD.

Getting Here From Vienna :  From the main train station, you take the Rex bus to Bruck/Leitha Bahnhof ( 2 stops, 27 minutes ) then Bus 274 to Petronell-Carnuntum Freilichtmuseum ( 12 stops, 27 minutes ).   Rating as a Side Trip From Vienna :  5 out of 10, a 7 if you love Roman history.

18. Marchfelderhof Restaurant ( 40 Minutes Away ):

About Marchfelderhof Restaurant :  A little tacky, but a beautiful restaurant from 1843 seemingly filled with junk.  They serve traditional Austrian food, have a funky atmosphere, and cater to large groups.

Getting Here From Vienna :  Take the S1 subway right from the heart of Vienna to the restaurant in around 40 minutes.   Rating as a Side Trip From Vienna :  4 out of 10.

Longer Side Trips From Vienna:

Munich, Germany ( 4 Hours ); Prague, Czech Republic ( 4.5 Hours ); Sedlec Ossuary Bone Church in Kutná Hora, Czech Republic ( 3.5 Hours ); Berchtesgaden, Germany ( 3.5 Hours ); Wefen, Germany ( 3.5 Hours ); Innsbruck, Austria ( 4.5 Hours ); Graz, Austria ( 2.5 Hours ).

Accessible By Night Train From Vienna:

Rome ( Italy) ; Venice ( Italy ); Amsterdam ( Netherlands ); Florence ( Italy ); Brussels ( Belgium) ; Frankfurt ( Germany ); Warszawa ( Poland ); Bucureşti ( Romania ); Zürich ( Switzerland )

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Disclaimer: Information on this page and in our walking tours were deemed accurate when published, however, details such as opening hours, rates, transportation, visa requirements, and safety can change without notice. Please check with any destinations directly before traveling.

The 16 Coolest Day Trips From Vienna, Austria

Amazing & Unforgettable Day Trips From Vienna!

Thanks to its perfect location at the Danube and close to many other countries’s borders, Vienna offers an abundance of great places to explore.

Whether you choose to discover the surroundings of the city or even go abroad, there’s almost no limit when it comes to finding the best day trips from Vienna.

Whether you drive by car or take public transport, the city makes a convenient base for trips to nearby towns and villages.

From the idyllic Austrian villages to the Hungarian capital city Budapest, or the Czech quaint town Cesky Krumlov. The opportunities are endless!

Are you planning your trip to Vienna at the last minute?

Here are the best guided day trips and accommodations in the city!

🇦🇹 Best Guided Day Trips From Vienna

• Hallstatt & Alpine Peaks day trip with Skywalk lift ⛰️
• Budapest group day trip 🇭🇺
• Full-day trip to Prague 🇨🇿

🛌 Best Hotels in Vienna

• ARTIST Boutique Hotel ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
• The Leo Grand ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
• Steigenberger Hotel Herrenhof ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

🤑 Want to  save 50% on Vienna’s major attractions?  Get the Vienna Go City Pass  and enjoy discounts on top sights and experiences!

Together with other travel bloggers, I compiled this list of the, in our opinion, best day trips from Vienna.

It features lovely old castles , breathtaking lakes, gorgeous wine villages , bustling cities, and even a big spa complex .

That’s enough detail already, now you need to find out the rest by yourself!

(This post contains affiliate links, which means I receive a certain percentage of a sale if you purchase after clicking.)

1. Hallstatt

Recommended by me

A quiet, deep blue lake with swans and wooden houses in a picturesque village located at the foot of impressive mountains – welcome to Hallstatt!

This scenic village is one of the most famous places in Austria and therefore a must on every itinerary.

Whether you decide to choose public transport or go by car, Hallstatt is easily reachable with both options. The journey takes around three hours for either of them.

In Hallstatt, the first thing you need to do is take a walk along the lake promenade. There are many lovely cafés side by side serving a good cup of coffee.

It’s also possible to rent a pedal boat in form of a big swan or take a swim in the lake if the weather is good.

Moreover, don’t miss out on visiting the world-famous charnel house (“Beinhaus”) that can be found at the cemetery.

The tiny chapel dates back to the 12th century and is home to more than 600 spectacularly painted skulls .

Due to its popularity, Hallstatt is swamped by tourists every day, no matter what season. Thus it’s recommended to go there as early as possible to avoid getting overrun and get a more authentic experience.

Graz is Austria’s second-largest city and the capital of the beautiful state of Styria.

With a car drive of only 2.5 hours , it’s among the most popular and top-rated day trips from Vienna.

Those who prefer public transport can choose one of the many direct train and bus connections that are available a few times a day.

Once in Graz, the first thing you’ll probably notice is the “Uhrturm” – the city’s main sight and one of the most famous landmarks in Austria located on a small hill.

To get up there, you can either climb a few hundred steep stairs or take the less exhausting way: The cable car called “Schlossbergbahn” .

Another place you shouldn’t miss is the “Kunsthaus” . It’s a modern art museum housing different exhibitions of contemporary artists. Because of its weird look, locals also call it the “Friendly Alien”.

For lunch or a hot cup of coffee, head to one of the numerous places near the city hall. Some good recommendations are Ginko Greenhouse, Café Sacher or Don Camillo .

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

One day is more than enough to see all the main attractions without rushing through the city. However, it’s easy to fall in love with the Styrian capital so you’ll most likely want to come back again and again!

3. Ljubljana

Recommended by Džangir of Dr Jam Travels

Slovenia’s capital, Ljubljana , is three and a half hours from Vienna and thus still able to visit as a day trip!

The city is not big at all, but its smaller size is exactly what makes the city so charming.

One place you shouldn’t miss is the old town of Ljubljana where you can find many of the main attractions such as the town hall or the famous triple bridge.

Take an hour and walk slowly on the narrow and cobbled streets that were formed in medieval times on both sides of the river Ljubljanica.

Moreover, stop at a few baroque churches and palaces to admire the work of the famous architect Plečnik .

On the left bank of the river, you can find the remains of Emona , a city from ancient Rome.

For some stunning city views, make your way to Ljubljana castle on a hill. You can access it by walking many of the different paths or by funicular.

After walking, eat some local food in one of the many great restaurants and finish your visit with a leisure stroll in the green park Tivoli .

4. Bratislava

Recommended by Rachael of A City Girl Outside

Bratislava is the capital city of Slovakia and lies just across the border of Austria , making it one of the most perfect day trips from Vienna.

Bratislava is small for a capital city and therefore it’s possible to see its main attractions within one day.

Getting to  Bratislava from Vienna  is relatively easy. You can either opt to take a guided tour which is great for convenience and learning about the area. Or you can take the train on a self-guided day trip.

The train to Bratislava departs from the Vienna Hauptbahnhof and getting tickets from the ticket machines is relatively easy with many languages available. The total journey time is just over an hour .

Once you arrive in the city center you are free to explore! The Bratislava Old Town is the most popular and picturesque part of the city.

Michael’s Gate is quite possibly the biggest attraction in Bratislava. It was originally one of the four gates when Bratislava was a fortified city. 

The Old Town Hall sits in a beautiful square filled with vibrant buildings and unique statues. This bright yellow building also houses the city’s oldest museum , the Bratislava City Museum.

The entry also includes access to the viewing tower which showcases panoramic views of the square below. 

There are many more things to do in Bratislava and most are within a short walking distance of each other.

A total of 8-10 hours is recommended for visiting Bratislava from Vienna, you won’t want to rush through this beautiful city! 

5. Cesky Krumlov

Recommended by Julia of The Cure for Curiosity

Take a  day trip to Cesky Krumlov  in the Czech Republic to explore one of the quaintest and most picturesque towns in Europe.

Its storybook-like charm is accentuated by its location nestled into the crook of the Vltava River , almost giving a moat appearance around the city.

Located just 2.5 hours away from Vienna , the best way to make the journey to Cesky Krumlov is to rent a car and drive yourself or take a direct shuttle bus. 

Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted with amazing views over the city and even more beautiful views as you meander through the cobblestone streets. 

Spend the day wandering the historic Old Town, visiting the Cesky Krumlov Castle, and admiring Cloak Bridge and the views from it.

You’ll also want to taste the traditional “trdelnik” , a local pastry of grilled dough shaped in a cylinder and topped with various ingredients. 

If you have more time, check out the handful of local museums to learn more about the city’s history.

6. Budapest

Recommended by Anjali of Travel Melodies

Just about 2.5 hours away , Budapest makes for an easy day trip from Vienna.

Frankly, Budapest needs at least two to three days to explore though if you narrow down on the high points, you can cover Budapest in 24 hours.

Fisherman’s Bastion, Matthias Church, Gellért Hill, Buda Castle, Hungarian Parliament, Szechenyi Thermal Baths, St. Stephen’s Basilica, and Chain Bridge are some of the  best things to do in Budapest .

Another not-to-be-missed activity in Budapest is the Danube River Cruise . It’s, in fact, one of the best ways to take in all the highlights of Budapest, right from the waters.

You should book the sunset cruise. This way, you can see the city in daylight and then see it again all lit up as the cruise returns to the starting point.

You can not leave Budapest before you have tried the Chimney Cake . The best place to taste the traditional Chimney Cake is Cafe Molnár’s Kütrőskalács .

Getting to Budapest is relatively easy, there are many flights, trains, and buses from Vienna to Budapest . Alternatively, you can join a guided Budapest day tour from Vienna.

7. Vienna Woods

Recommended by Kenny of Knycx Journeying

There is a lot to  see and do in Vienna  – and why wouldn’t it? The City of Music is an enchanting travel destination filled with music, art, history, and culture.

Having said that, you will have a great experience going a little bit further to the city’s outskirts.  

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 .  

To get there, there are a number of trains and bus routes that take travelers to Vienna Woods within an hour.

Nevertheless, it would be wise to organize a day trip with a rental car, as you can get around town and explore the area at your own pace.  

Begin your day with a wine tour and have a sip of some world-class wines. If you are looking for something more active, go kayaking on the Danube or go on a scenic walk through the historic forest, which was a hunting ground of Viennese royalty.

In the afternoon, take it slow and have a walk in the town center.

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 Monique of Trip Anthropologist

Only 75 miles from Vienna , Sopron is just across the border in Hungary and is one of Europe’s hidden gems.

Trains leave every hour from Vienna to Sopron but it is also a quick and easy driving destination. You just need to follow the A2 to the A3 and then take the Sopron city exit.

Sopron is surrounded by lakes and forests and its Old Town is built upon the ancient Roman city of Scarbantia . Parts of Scarbantia have been excavated and its walls and Forum are right next to the Old Town square.

The buildings and houses in the old part of town are a mix of baroque and medieval styles fronting cobbled streets and surrounding charming squares.

Every  Sopron travel guide  will tell you not to miss Sopron’s central landmark, the 58-meter-high old fire tower , the Tűztorony. Wardens would once stand on the balcony and warn of fires in the forests surrounding the town.

A few hours wandering the Old Town, lunch in the main square, and a look through a museum can all be achieved in a day trip.

If you have more time, driving around the forests, wineries, and monasteries around Sopron makes for a lovely few days just across the border from Austria!

9. Wachau Valley

Recommended by Roxanne of Faraway Worlds

Only an hour out of the city,  visiting the Wachau Valley  makes for a wonderful day trip from Vienna. A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Wachau Valley is renowned for its wine, castles, and pretty towns.

Situated on the banks of the Danube, the valley is lined with terraced vineyards, primarily known for their dry white wines usually made from Riesling and Grüner Veltliner grapes .

The landscape is beautiful, with rolling countryside overlooking the river.

Of the towns dotted through the valley, Dürnstein and Melk are well worth a visit.

They both boast lovely town centers, beautiful Baroque architecture , and nearby fortresses (it’s technically an abbey in Melk, but it’s still stunning).

Getting to the Wachau Valley from Vienna is very easy. There are direct trains to Melk and Krems and you can catch a bus to the smaller towns from there.

If you want to visit the wineries, you can also cycle through the valley . There are a few providers offering organized tours from Vienna (these usually still involve taking a train to Krems).

Of course, traveling by car would give you the most flexibility, allowing you to stop at any village, castle or winery that you choose. 

Recommended by Adriana of Czech the World

Brno is the second-largest city in the Czech Republic , presenting a perfect combination of history and a modern city. You can find remarkable places, delicious food, beer, and wine here.

The Czech city is only 1,5 hours by train or two hours by bus from Vienna, which makes it a great destination for a day trip. A one-way ticket to Brno costs about €7 .

It’s also a beloved destination for Czech people because it’s among the best day trips from Prague.

One day is already enough to see the best of Brno. Most of the important landmarks are within walking distance, located around the city center.

You can start by exploring the iconic Petrov Cathedral (St. Paul’s and Peter’s Cathedral) as well as the Špilberk Castle , which is a massive baroque citadel with extensive casemates.

Another very interesting place that shouldn’t be missed is the St. James Ossuary (Kostnice u Svatého Jakuba), which is the second-largest ossuary in Europe!

It’s not very far from the main square – Náměstí Svobody, which is often a place of markets and festivals.

If you are a fan of modern architecture, you shouldn’t miss Vila Tugendhat . It was built in the functionalist style and is listed among UNESCO World Heritage Sites .

Here, you can find also other places and cool  things to do in Brno .

Once you are in Brno, don’t forget to stop at a local pub for great and cheap Czech beer, which costs about €1.5–2 (for 0.5 l of draft beer). 

11. Lake Bled

Recommended by Tom & Zi of Craving Adventure

Lake Bled is one of the most popular locations in Slovenia, and it is easy to see why.

A mesmerizingly blue lake surrounded by mountains, the most picture-perfect tiny island with a shining white church on it in the middle of the lake, and a medieval castle overlooking this magical scenery.

Your jaw is guaranteed to drop when you first lay your eyes on this wonder of nature.

Lake Bled is a great day trip from Vienna, although you might want to make that into a multi-day trip as it is an almost four-hour long drive by car . There is enough to do in Bled to keep you entertained for days!

Highly recommended is having dinner in the castle and doing a boat trip to Bled Island on a traditional Pletna boat.

They’re a bit like the gondolas in Venice, except that Pletna boats are propelled with two oars instead of one.

If you’re spending more than one day in Bled, then make sure to check out the Vintgar Gorge .

It’s a 1.6-kilometer-long gorge with suspended boardwalks going alongside the emerald-colored water as it tumbles its way through rapids toward the Sum waterfall at the end. 

12. Grinzing

Recommended by Samantha of The Wandering Wanderluster

Austria is a well-known wine destination, and Vienna boasts over 700 hectares of vineyards alone.

If you have ticked off all the  top things to do in Vienna , then a trip out of the city to its wine villages and vineyards that hugs the slopes beneath the Vienna woods is a must.

One of the most popular wine villages is the small town of Grinzing which is easily reached by tram from the Schottentor U-Bahn Station.  

Part of the charm of Grinzing is simply wandering its lanes and enjoying the charming village atmosphere that has attracted many famous people over the centuries including painters, writers and musicians including Beethoven and Schubert.

As you walk around you will find a plethora of Heurigen, traditional wine taverns serving local wines and traditional dishes.

Since most people come to Grinzing to enjoy the wine and food, for this reason, it is recommended to visit in the late afternoon or early evening . 

During the summer you can eat and drink outdoors with grapevines hanging above your head and enjoy beautiful gardens and views of the slopes of the Vienna Woods.

If you visit earlier in the afternoon, you can even pair your visit with a stroll or bike ride around the local area before stopping and treating yourself to a glass of wine.

13. Devin Castle

Recommended by Alice of Adventures of Alice

Located just over an hour’s drive away from the imperial city, Devin Castle is a great day trip from Vienna.

It’s actually in Bratislava, one of  Europe’s hidden gems , but sits right against the border with Austria, making it a nice, easy journey.

The castle also sits at the meeting place of the Danube and Morava Rivers and you can actually see the places where the waters meet from the top of the castle. 

The Slovakian Castle is pretty spectacular. Archaeologists suspect that it was occupied during the Neolithic period .

However, during the first century AD, Devin passed through the hands of the Celtics, then Germanic tribes, before the Romans arrived.

Walking around the castle, you’ll find remains of various buildings , including a gatehouse, chapels, and even a graveyard. Little alcoves hold museum pieces encased in glass, and little plaques explaining their history.

Across a small bridge, in the main courtyard, you’ll find the remnants of the Garay Palace and the Upper Castle , as well as beautiful views of the Maiden Tower where, according to legend, the King held his own daughter captive.

From here, and the other taller turrets, you’ll be treated to beautiful views out across the Slovakian countryside and the two combining rivers on this fascinating and beautiful day trip.

14. Lutzmannsburg

Recommended by Carly of Fearless Female Travels

When you’re ready to escape Vienna for a day of relaxation and rest, Lutzmannsburg is the perfect one-day getaway. 

It’s easiest to make the trip by car, with Lutzmannsburg about ninety minutes south of Vienna on the Austrian border, but it’s also possible to make the trip by bus.

Depending on the day of the week it could take one or two transfers.

Once you arrive, head directly to Sonnentherme Lutzmannsburg , the massive spa complex on the edge of the town. 

Here, you’ll find a family-friendly indoor and outdoor waterpark for all ages, including waterslides (one of which is the world’s longest virtual-reality slide), pools, and diving towers.

There’s a separate adults-only area called “Sauna World”, where you can relax in seven different saunas (no swimwear allowed!).

Throughout the day, different skincare treatments are offered in the saunas, including body scrubs, lotions infused with local grape extracts, and natural herbal fragrance treatments. 

Treatments are normally complimentary, but registration is required to ensure there’s room in the sauna for everyone. Plan to spend the whole day here … it’s so relaxing that you’ll never want to leave! 

15. Salzburg

Recommended by Tegan & Alex of Why Not Walk Travel Guides

Thanks to the great train connection, Salzburg is one of the best day trips from Vienna and a must-visit during any trip to Austria.

The train ride, using Austrian ÖBB or WESTbahn trains, takes about 2.5 hours and has beautiful scenery to admire on your journey.

Trains go between the two cities multiple times per hour, so no need to worry about scheduling if you decide to stay overnight, but Salzburg is an eminently doable day trip if your time is more limited.

While in Salzburg, be sure to visit the various sites from The Sound of Music , including the Mirabellgarten and Palace, Schloss Hellbrunn, Nonnberg Abbey, and Schloss Leopoldskron.

You will definitely recognize all of these places if you have seen the classic film!

Salzburg is also the birthplace of the world-renowned composer Mozart , and you can visit the house where he was born in Altstadt, or the Old City, and enjoy window-shopping along the nearby Getreidegasse, which together form a UNESCO World Heritage site .

Another historic site to enjoy is the Hohensalzburg Fortress , a medieval fortification located atop Festungsberg Hill.

You can ride a vintage funicular up to the top and enjoy gorgeous views of the city from above, as well as a neat tour of the fortress.  

Last but not least, make sure to discover the city’s food scene by joining a Salzburg food tour !

Recommended by Nathalie of Bolet Worldwide

If you’re looking for one of the best day trips from Vienna, you can easily head to Hungary and visit the beautiful city of Győr.

The trip takes only around an hour by train , starting from the main train station in Vienna Wien Hauptbahnhof to the main train station in Győr with the NT 347 BUCURESTI NORD.

There are many things you can do in Győr, for example, visiting the City town hall which is on the way from the train station.

The City town hall is a magnificent, big building overlooking a square with different fountains.

After this, start exploring the old town – a big and bright area, with colorful buildings including the Benedictine church of St. Ignatius of Loyola . At the main square, there is also the Carmelite church.

One spot you should not miss is the boatman sculpture . It was built in 1997 after the floods in the city and is said to bring good luck to those who touch it . 

For lunch, you can visit any of the restaurants at the main square to enjoy a fabulous, traditional Hungarian meal.

Check out : 16 Best & Most Famous Landmarks in Austria 50 Interesting Facts About Austria 12 Most Beautiful Towns & Villages in Austria (by a Local)

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Do you want to travel like me? Here are some of my favorite travel tips and resources:

Flights: I prefer using CheapOair or Skyscanner to book flights. The destination everywhere feature is perfect for finding some cheap deals! Accommodation: Booking.com is my favorite site to find some great hotel deals. I do love staying at a local place as well, so I book an Airbnb every now and then. Travel Insurance: There are many reasons why travel insurance is important and I never travel without one. I use the simple and flexible one from SafetyWing that protects me against unforeseen events. Tours: I love taking tours to explore destinations like a local. My favorite website to book them in advance is GetYourGuide . Camera Gear: I use a Nikon D5300 camera with an 18-105 mm and a 10-20 mm wide-angle lens to take my photos.

Hey and welcome to my blog! I’m Alina, an Austrian travel addict and vegan food lover who has a passion for exploring new destinations and trying out the best plant-based food around the world. Come and join me as I share exciting bucket list experiences and provide helpful travel guides for your own adventures!

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38 Comments

Austria is so beautiful. Part of these day trips I have done, but have some new ones on my list.

There are so many great ones!

I have never been to Vienna and I want to go! Knowing there are all these cool places nearby makes me want to pack my bags and go for a month! The woods and wine region especially look good.

Haha yes you would really need a month to see all of them!

These are all amazing day trips! I remember Bratislava was so close to Vienna. I didn’t realize Slovenia was that close to the city. This is such a great guide! 🙂

Yes Bratislava is only an hour and you can already see the city while being at the border to Slovakia!

The wachau valley looks amazing, the view!!! These are really great road trip ideas from Vienna, thanks for sharing!

It’s a wonderful place, especially for biking! 🙂

I visited Vienna once on a European road trip. I wish that I’d had more time to visit these beautiful places near it. Hopefully soon!

Maybe next time! 🙂

What a lovely selection of ideas for day trips from Vienna. I certainly look forward to using Vienna as a base for day trips to Bratislava and the Wachau Valley.

The Wachau Valley is amazing! Especiall in late summer/early fall when the wine harvest starts 🙂

Lots of great day trip ideas here! We only managed to go to Bratislava when we visited Vienna for a week, so I would love to see more of Austria on our next trip.

I hope you can do that next time!

So many fabulous places so close to Vienna! I have wonderful memories of Salzburg & the Sound of Music tour.. such pretty scenery! I’d love to go to Lake Bled. Hopefully I will go one day…

I’m sure you will! It’s a wonderful place 🙂

Such great day trip ideas. Vienna is such a great place and the best part is you get to explore so many other amazing places in a day.

Oh yes that’s true!

I love this guide! Austria is one of my favorite countries and Vienna one of my favorites cities. I am planning to go back when I can travel again, and I love all the recommendations here. I have done some of these trips, but now I have many others I want to do. Thanks!

Oh that’s sooo nice to hear! Maybe we can meet next time 🙂

I’ve always wanted to go to Halsatt but some of these other places look super inviting too!

Hallstatt is seriously adorable but very touristy!

Vienna and indeed Austria is so beautiful but it is wonderful to have other countries to go to even if it is just for a day trip! Love it.

Yes the location is very convenient!

So many great looking places, although I still haven’t been to Vienna yet so I need to get to explore that city first. Salzburg has always been on the list but I like the look of some of the other places. I’m a big fan of history and interesting sites so Devin Castle would be a good one to visit

Vienna ia definitely the best place to start! I haven’t been to Devin Castle myself but also want to go there one day 🙂

What a fantastic list of places to explore in Europe, whether you are in Vienna or not. Loads of great suggestions here & plenty I haven’t explored yet so thanks for compiling!

Happy you find this post useful! 🙂

These day trips look amazing! Vienna has been on my list forever and I’d love to take some of these day trips whenever I get there!

I hope you’ll be able to do it soon ?

This list of day trips from Vienna really makes me miss Europe! I will definitely be adding some of these to my bucket list!

Happy to hear that!

I love Austria. It has so many old and beautiful buildings in lots of towns to appreciate. And it is close to other countries. Yes, I love Austria.

So nice to hear that Sharyn! 🙂

I visited Vienna over 10 years ago, and was just looking through old pictures and thinking about how much I would love to go back sometime soon. These all look like wonderful destinations that I will be sure to add to my itinerary when I can finally make it!

I hope it will be soon!

I have been to Innsbruck, but Vienna is still on my list. I would definitely love to take a few of these day trips when I visit Vienna 🙂

Innsbruck is a wonderful city too 🙂

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• Homeroom Travel

9+ Amazing Day Trips from Vienna: Hidden Gems in the Surrounding Area

• November 27, 2023
• No Comments

Vienna , the impressive imperial capital of Austria, is an amazing city to visit on its own. There are many spectacular day trips from Vienna that you can add to your visit. Visitors could easily spend a week exploring the amazing places in Austria.

Table of Contents

Where to Stay in Vienna

TripAdvisor is a great place to start your hotel search. Search for the best Vienna hotels here ! Other hotel options include the following:

• Hilton Vienna Danube Waterfront
• Boutique Hotel Nossek
• Ibis Styles Wein Messe Prater
• Courtyard by Marriott Vienna Prater/Messe
• NH Wein Airport

Best Day Trips from Vienna: Less Than 1 Hour

Esterhazy palace, austria.

By Paul of Paulmarina

The Esterhazy palace in Eisenstadt , the capital of the Burgenland region, is well worth a visit if you enjoy learning about Austrian history, culture, and art. 

The best way to get there is via car or train. By car, it’s just a 50-minute and 35-mile (ca. 56 km) drive via the A3 freeway, and if you want to travel via public transport, catch the direct train from the Vienna central station to get there within 1 1/2 hours. 

During the Habsburg reign in Austria, the Esterhazy Palace was the residence of the loyal Esterhazy family, who originally hailed from Hungary, a territory then part of the empire. Incidentally, the palace gained in importance thanks to Joseph Haydn the composer, who was the Kapellenmeister of the family and who lived there as well. 

The Haydn Hall, an event banquette hall, is a wonderfully decorated, acoustically perfected hall still used today for classical music concerts. You can’t miss a visit to the intricately decorated baroque hall, with its ceiling frescoes and stucco details.

Look out for the red room, a room decorated with red silk wallpaper, and don’t forget to head to the wine cellars, which have been turned into the largest wine museum in Austria. A walk across the vast manicured palace gardens only completes a visit to this stunning palace in Eastern Austria.

Melk, Austria

By Jolayne of Just Wander More

One of the many highlights of a trip to Vienna, Austria, is taking day trips outside of the city. This is especially true if you are exploring ideas of things to do in Vienna with teens . Whether you take the train or go by car, the distance from Vienna is approximately one hour; the scenery along the way is breathtaking.

One of the top things to do during your visit to Melk is to tour the Melk Abbey. The Benedictine abbey sits atop a hill overlooking the town as well as the Danube River. The tour includes the royal wing, abbey museum, the great hall where lavish dinners were once held, the library, which is home to over 100,000 books, and the chapel with its symmetrical towers and 200-foot-high dome. You may even wish to attend worship services. 

Be sure to leave some time to wander through the extensive gardens around the abbey.

Feeling a little more adventurous? Rent bikes in Melk and ride along the Danube River through the Wachau Valley. You can follow the 25-mile (35 km) bike path to Krems, and then take the train from Krems back to Vienna, or just ride for a while along the path and return to Melk.

Best Day Trips from Vienna: 1-2 Hours

Bratislava, slovakia.

By Melissa of Parenthood and Passports

Bratislava is perhaps one of the most popular day trips from Vienna. The Slovakian capital city is just an hour away by train, car, or even boat. 

The picturesque old town area of Bratislava is compact and beautiful, filled with medieval buildings with colorful facades, cobbled streets, and a lively atmosphere. During your Bratislava day trip , spend some time wandering through OId Town. Find and ponder the quirky statues randomly scattered through the district, and stop at the quaint shops that line the plazas and streets.

Your next stop during your day trip is the iconic Bratislava Castle. Perched on a hill overlooking Old Town, Bratislava Castle offers panoramic views of the city and the Danube. After touring the museum inside Bratislava Castle, if time permits, take a taxi to Devin Castle, which is about a 15-minute drive from Old Town. Believed to date back to the 5th century BC, the ruins of this former fortress stand on the banks of the waterfront where the Danube and Morava rivers meet.

With a relaxed ambiance and somewhat of a small-town allure, Bratislava makes a perfect day trip destination from the busy yet enchanting city of Vienna. You will get a small taste of a different country and be able to savor the unique charm of this captivating city.

Brno, Czech Republic

By Adri of Traveltipzone

If you’re looking for an option for day trips from Vienna, Brno in the Czech Republic can be a great choice. Relatively close to Vienna, Brno , the second-largest city in the Czech Republic, is just under 2 hours away by car. You can reach Brno almost entirely via the highway from Vienna, covering a total distance of 140 km (87 miles). Its easy accessibility makes it an ideal destination for a day trip, and you can comfortably explore its main attractions within a day.

Brno is a vibrant Czech city, rich in cultural life and stunning historical buildings. The Špilberk Castle, part of the UNESCO World Heritage, is one of the main attractions in the city. Take a walk in the park surrounding the castle, enjoying the view of Brno from the hilltop.

Another major landmark in Brno is the Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul, located in the city center, where you can climb the tower for a stunning view of the city. Additionally, don’t miss other central attractions such as the Old Town Hall and the Astronomical Clock. During your visit, enjoy a pleasant walk through the city’s popular squares like Náměstí Svobody and Zelný Trh.

If you want to learn more about Czech culture, it’s recommended to visit the Moravian Museum and Pražák Palace – Moravian Gallery. When in the Czech Republic, don’t miss out on the world-famous Czech beers. Brno is filled with beer pubs, including places like CRAFTBEER Bottle Shop & Bar Zelňák and Beer Exchange 2.0, where you can try the local beers.

Transportation in Brno is easy, whether you choose to drive or use public transport. Since the city is less crowded than Vienna or Prague, it’s an ideal choice for those who prefer a more relaxed trip in the area. All in all, with its cultural and gastronomic richness, historical sights, and great views, Brno is a perfect choice for a day trip from Vienna.

Znojmo, Czech Republic

By Lizet of A Wander Food World

Znojmo is one of those hidden gems that the majority of tourists haven’t discovered yet. Just across the Czech border, you’ll find this cute little town in the region with the same name: Znojmo. This region, located in the wider area of South Moravia, is known for its rich wine history. Wine, you say? Yes, indeed. The country mostly known for its beer culture, also has a very lively wine region with great wines. In Znojmo, you’ll find one of the best vineyards in Europe. The Šobes vineyard usually sells out their wines before they even harvest the grapes, and even the former queen of England was a fan.

It’s no surprise that one of the biggest wine festivals of the year is held in the city of Znojmo. It’s a festive way to kick off the wine season, which starts with the local wine “burčák.” This is a partially fermented wine, which is low in alcohol and tastes more like lemonade.

It’s a local delicacy, and you’ll find sellers on the streets selling plastic bottles with the yellow goodness. Because it’s only partially fermented, the process continues after bottling. This increases the amount of alcohol over time, but also the amount of gas. This makes it impossible to bottle and export the wine, so you’ll have to visit the country to try this. It’s available between September and November.

Aside from wine, the Znojmo region is also known for the Podyjí National Park, popular among hikers and cyclists. In Znojmo town, you can enjoy the views over the area and great small-town vibes. The biggest highlight of the city is the 40km long corridor system that has been connecting the old town houses for centuries.

This cute town is only 89km/55.3 miles from Vienna, which takes less than 2 hours by train or a bit over an hour by car. It’s an easy trip to experience a different country’s culture, an absolute must-visit for wine lovers, and one of the best day trips from Vienna.

Lutzmannsburg, Austria

By Carly from Fearless Female Travels

Located 90 miles south of Vienna, along the Hungarian border, Lutzmannsburg is one of the best day trips from Vienna. If you only have one day, you’ll want to go by car, but if you have time for an overnight visit, it’s also possible to arrive via Austria’s efficient network of buses (the trip requires three inter-city buses and takes about 2.5 hours). 

At first, Lutzmannsburg appears to be a typical Austrian village, with quaint homes surrounded by fields of sunflowers, working farms, and sprawling vineyards. However, what makes Lutzmannsburg unique compared to other Austrian villages is its massive spa complex – Sonnentherme Lutzmannsburg. This is one of the best family-friendly spa complexes I’ve ever visited, as it has three large sections dedicated to young children, families, and exclusively adults.

Personally, I spent most of my time in the Sauna World section, which features seven wet and dry saunas, a Jacuzzi, a plunge pool, and complimentary infusions (wellness treatments delivered inside the saunas). Like most German and Austrian saunas, the sauna section of Sonnentherme Lutzmannsburg is co-ed and textile-free, meaning men and women use saunas together without swimwear (just wrap up in a clean towel if desired). I also couldn’t resist the pull of the family-friendly area, where I put my bathing suit back on and tried out the longest indoor waterslide in Austria and the world’s longest virtual-reality waterslide, which allows you to take a slippery slide through outer space or across a breathtaking safari. 

If you get tired of relaxing, you can also spend an hour or two exploring the natural regions around the sauna complex. You can even stroll across the border to Hungary if you want to check another country off your list! Most of the well-signed trails are easily walkable, but it’s also possible to rent an e-bike across the street from the sauna if you’d rather cycle through the forests and vineyards. Make sure your route includes the nearby Aussichtsplattform Lutzmannsburg observation platform, which is free to ascend and offers some of the best views of the entire region.

Best Day Trips from Vienna: More Than 2 Hours

Salzburg, austria.

By Sabrina of Shadesofsummr

Distance from Vienna: 2 hours 15 minutes, 296 kilometers

One of the best day trips from Vienna is to the musical city of Salzburg . The quickest way to go from Vienna to Salzburg is by train. You can also take the car, but it will take about an hour longer. There are also many providers offering day tours from Vienna to Salzburg.

Salzburg is one of the most beautiful cities in Austria and has a ton of awesome places to stay . It is famous for being the home of Mozart and the movie background for Sound of Music. It has stunning castles, impressive fortresses, and many museums and cultural buildings. Salzburg is super picturesque and interesting at the same time, so it is definitely worth a visit. Make sure to check out this walking tour of Old Town !

One of the must-do things when spending a day in Salzburg is visiting Mirabell Gardens, Mozart’s birth house, and the Getreidegasse. If you have the time, hike up the Hohensalzburg Fortress for a stunning view over the city or take a Sound of Music Tour . It is also a great place to base yourself to take some day trips .

The best time to go to Salzburg is in winter . It has one of the most fantastic Christmas markets in Austria. Another great idea is to combine a day trip to Salzburg with a short stop in Hallstatt, one of the most scenic villages in Austria. Make sure to get a Salzburg Card to save some money during your day.

Mikulov, Czech Republic

By Joanna of The World in My Pocket

Mikulov is a wonderful town in the Czech Republic, just at the border with Austria. It makes for one of the best day trips from Vienna due to its compact size and the easy transport connections. Getting to Mikulov from Vienna is very easy. You can either drive in one hour if you are doing a road trip around South Moravia or take Flixbus towards Brno, which takes around the same time. If you opt for the train, you will have to change at Breclav, and the journey time will be just over 2 hours.

Mikulov is a relatively small town surrounded by vineyards. It has a beautiful castle overlooking the town, which hosts a very large wine barrel dating from 1643, which can hold up to 1,000 hectolitres. You can actually see the castle from before crossing the border. Visiting the grounds can take a good few hours, as there are many exhibitions to be seen. Visiting the grounds of the castle is free of charge.

For a great viewpoint of Mikulov and the land around it, climb the Holy Hill. The panorama from up there is breathtaking, and the path up, even if it may look difficult, is not. It takes around 15 minutes to reach the top. In the lower part of Mikulov, you will find the Dietrichstein Tomb, which is a protected cultural monument in Czechia. The Dietrichsteins were the noble family in power in Mikulov during the 16 th century.

Don’t miss tasting the local Palava wine, which is produced in the hills around Mikulov. Mikulov is one of the best day trips from Vienna.

Budapest, Hungary

By Morgan of Crave the Planet

If you’re into art, culture, and nature, Budapest is an awesome shoulder season destination, especially if you’re already visiting nearby Austria. Thus, it makes for one of the most amazing day trips from Vienna. Both countries have insane natural beauty – in Austria, check out the incredible mountain views from the Olpererhutte bridge , and in Hungary, you can’t beat relaxing at Lake Balaton.

They also seriously deliver on the culture front. Budapest especially has world-class museums and architectural sights for days. It’s the perfect combo if you want to soak up both nature AND art. And as a shoulder season spot, it won’t be as crowded or expensive as summer. Budapest, the capital of Hungary, is filled with castles, thrift shops, and baroque architecture and is located approximately 243 kilometers (151 miles) southeast of Vienna. 

There are several ways to get to Budapest from Vienna. You can take a train from Vienna’s Hauptbahnhof (main train station) or Wien-Mitte/Landstraße station, which takes around 2.5 to 3 hours if you get the most direct train that leaves 2-3 times a day.  If you don’t catch that train, it will take longer, about 3-4 hours. Alternatively, you can take a bus or drive by car, which takes around 2.5 hours on the M1 and autobahn A4. 

Budapest is a stunning and historic city with a rich culture and many easily explored sights. It’s a great artsy destination for a day trip from Vienna, as you can visit landmarks such as the Hungarian Parliament Building, the Fisherman’s Bastion, and the Buda Castle, as well as enjoy the city’s famous thermal baths and delicious and varied cuisine.  The most popular thermal bath is Szechenyi Spa, but don’t forget to buy a ticket for the metro. They will catch you and fine you 32 euros for hopping on the train. 

You’ve got to try chimney cake, street food, and unbelievable coffee.  There are innumerable cute coffee shops with a boho vibe filled with youth playing backgammon or chess. They probably just got done shopping at the insane number of thrift stores in the Jewish (Gozdu) district and need a recharge.

If you’re planning to visit Budapest, you should think about going slightly off-season to avoid the throngs of hen and stag parties that flock there.  It can be annoying to deal with loud tourists coming to parties. In November, the weather is variable but worth the space and freedom you have to explore places without lines and reservations. Just bring a strong umbrella and raincoat.

Graz, Austria

By Fernanda of Mauka Travels

Graz is an incredible city located in the south of Austria, in the province of Styria. Graz is an excellent choice and one of the best day trips from Vienna because the city center is quite small, so you can easily explore it within a day.

One of the things that make Graz special is that its entire city center is considered a UNESCO World Heritage due to the coexistence of many architectural styles within one place. Within a short walk, you can easily spot buildings with Gothic, Baroque, Renaissance, and Art Nouveau styles. Graz’s city center is very well-preserved, which makes the visit even more pleasant.

To have panoramic views above the city, the best place to go is the Schlossberg, a hill located right in the city center. From the top, you will have 360 views of Graz and also have a chance to visit the Clock Tower, one of the most famous monuments of the city. Instead of going down on foot, you can go with a slide instead – which is a very fun experience for all ages.

Within a day, you will see there are a lot of places you can visit in Graz. Make sure you save time to check out the Hauptplatz (the main square), the Island on the Mur (also known as Murinsel), the contemporary art museum of Kunsthaus, and the Herrengasse (the city’s main shopping street).

For a day trip, the best way of going from Vienna to Graz is by car. The two cities are 200km (124 miles) away, so the drive should take you around two hours each way. Another option is to travel by train. There is a direct train line connecting Vienna to Graz, and the trip takes 2.5 hours. Graz is located right next to the border between Austria and Slovenia , so you can also extend your trip to visit two countries on the same day.

Final Thoughts on Day Trips from Vienna

There are many amazing day trips from Vienna to take to extend your time exploring this amazing area. No matter where you visit, enjoy the gems of this area and create an amazing Central European vacation.

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

The 13 Best Day Trips from Vienna [2024 Edition]

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

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

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

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Getting Around Vienna and Beyond

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Vienna Woods and Mayerling

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

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

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

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

Suggested Trip: Vienna Woods and Mayerling Half-Day Tour

Weinviertel Wine Region

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

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

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

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

Suggested Trip: Half-Day Countryside Wine Tour

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Suggested Trip: Melk Abbey and Danube Day Trip

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

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

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

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

Suggested Trip: Budapest Day Trip from Vienna

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

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

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

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

Cesky Krumlov

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Suggested Trip: Prague Day Trip with Walking Tour

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

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

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

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

Suggested Trip: Bratislava Day Trip including Catamaran Cruise

Baden Bei Wien

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Don’t Forget your Vienna Travel Insurance

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

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

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

Best Time to Go:

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

Made it this far? You get 15% OFF to book a place to stay ! Offer valid exclusively for Broke Backpackers 😉

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Red White Adventures

7 day trips from vienna that you’ll love.

Vienna is a wonderful destination for those who want to explore Austria’s varied and picturesque countryside as well as other European cities. 

The region around Vienna has an abundance of lovely scenery to explore, thanks to its placement on the Danube’s banks in the northeastern foothills of the Alps. 

Knowing the best day trips from Vienna will certainly make your journey better and richer in terms of experience.

This is why we’ve prepared this full guide for the best tours around the city whether you’re working remotely in Austria or coming for a few days only.

Seeing many people’s interest in venturing outside Vienna, we’ve decided to list several places where you can visit from Vienna in just a few days. 

Check out this 7-day trip from Vienna!

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links which means if you decide to use the links and make a valid purchase, we will receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for your support!

Table of Contents

Here are 7 day trips from Vienna you need to try

By Stefan from  Trips and Tricks

Vienna is a great starting point for day trips by rail to see some of the surrounding towns and villages as well as visiting another country on your trip.

With some of the finest scenery in Austria right on its doorstep, Vienna is a stunning city with plenty to see and do. Discover some of the best day trips from Vienna on the list below.

#1 Salzburg

If you are a fan of classical music, Salzburg must be included in your itinerary and is definitely one of the best day trips from Vienna. 

Located just about 300 km from Vienna, Salzburg is simply one of these travel destinations that you will never forget. Salzburg Mozart’s birthplace and the Mozartplatz Square are dedicated to him.

But you’ll also find lots of interesting attractions such as the old city and Fortress Hohensalzburg.

Of course, Salzburg has more than just a title; it has lots of historical sights that will take your breath away. From the sturdiest fortress to the most soothing church, you can find it in Salzburg.

Best Day Tours from Vienna to Salzburg

If you’re willing to do a Vienna to Salzburg day trip, the distance isn’t that long and you can reach your destination by train or simply renting a car.

Alternatively, joining a day tour is also a valid option and you’ll be able to enjoy the Austrian countryside as well as having the history of the city explained by an expert.

These are the best day trips from Vienna to Salzburg:

• Full-Day Tour from Vienna to Salzburg
• Salzburg: Small-Group Day Trip from Vienna
• Austrian Lakes and Salzburg Private Tour from Vienna

You will get to visit these places and more: Salzburg Fortress, Salzburg Old Town, and Mirabell Palace and Gardens.

The Salzburg Fortress, or the Hohensalzburg Castle, is one of the most famous historical sights in the area. It sits on the top of a hill, making it stand out even from afar.

You can check the rooms decked with gorgeous decorations and musical organs inside the fortress area and fill the spaces.

After visiting Salzburg Fortress, you can go to the Salzburg Old Town to see more eternal traces of the past. The Salzburg old town is part of the UNESCO World Heritage and has many historical buildings you can discover.

They might be more straightforward than the fortress, but both have historical values that can show us how people in the olden days lived.

After roaming around Salzburg’s historical sights, you can take a rest at Mirabell Palace and Gardens .

The garden is known for its striking set of parks and the luxurious building around it. You can take a rest while enjoying the beautiful flowers around you.

If you need even more inspiration for unique and fun things to do in Salzburg, check out this list with 9 awesome things to do in Salzburg .

#2 The Wachau Valley and Melk Abbey

Do you want to take a look at beautiful land sights? If that’s the case, then Wachau Valley is the right place to visit. The beautiful land sights will give you some of the best inspiration for your works.

Take a romantic stroll through the Wachau Valley and Melk Abbey to fully enjoy your trip to Austria.

For its architectural and agricultural heritage, the Wachau Valley is designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site , as well as attracting food and wine lovers.

Located just over 90 km from Vienna, you can easily rent a car and get there in little more than an hour or join a day trip.

Apart from that, the two sights are also reachable by bus or train but we’d recommend the car or a day trip to have more freedom and organize your journey the way you like it.

Explore the Danube River as it winds through charming villages and steep vineyards.

Many ancient fortresses attest to the former significance of the river, including Dürnstein Castle, where Richard the Lionheart is said to have been imprisoned before being set free by his trusted minstrel Blondel.

Best Day Tours from Vienna to the Wachau Valley

The landscapes of Wachau Valley feel as if they come out of a dream. After all, when will you get to see breathtaking valleys that appear as if they come out from the paintings? 

These are the best day trips from Vienna to the Wachau Valley you should consider:

• Wachau Valley Day Tour with Wine Tasting
• Grape Grazing: Wachau Valley Winery Biking Tour
• Romantic day tour from Vienna: Wachau, Melk Abbey, and Danube Valleys Tour

All things considered, these are the most unique and you definitely have the best value for money.

#3 Budapest

After retreating to quiet areas in Wachau, it’s time to go abroad by visiting Budapest. The capital of Hungary is just a 3-hour journey away from Vienna, making it an ideal place to stay for the day.

Budapest, which is approximately 240 kilometers from Vienna, is affectionately referred to as the “Paris of the East.”

The city is located on the Danube River and is simply one of Europe’s most picturesque cities. 

Although it takes a long day to see all there is to see, it’s well worth the trip for the variety of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, magnificent architecture from Baroque to Neoclassical and Art Nouveau, and the chance to soak in Budapest’s renowned therapeutic springs. 

Some of Budapest’s top attractions are the World Heritage-listed Castle Hill , home to the historic Buda Castle; the Fisherman’s Bastion and Matthias Church , both built in the late 1800s; and the magnificent Parliament buildings .

After seeing the gorgeous government building, you must visit the Heroes’ Square, the monument of Seven Chieftains of the Magyars. There are also other historical figures’ monuments on the square.

Furthermore, should you decide to rent a car and travel to Budapest, you may always extend your stay – it is simply one of the greatest weekend excursions from Vienna.

Best Day Tours from Vienna to Budapest

Needless to say, there are lots of things you can do in Budapest and one day may not be enough.

However, if your time in Austria or Europe is limited, there are some great day trips from Vienna to Budapest you can join.

These are the best day trips from Vienna to Budapest you should consider:

• Budapest Day Trip from Vienna
• Full-Day Trip to Budapest from Vienna
• Transfer by Car to/from Vienna & Budapest

To end the day, you can walk around on Danube Promenade. You can also look at the view of the river from there.

You will see the city’s famous bridge light up after sunset, along with other landmarks such as Buda Castle, Fisherman’s Bastion, and many more.

#4 Lainzer Wildlife Park and Baden bei Wien

If you visit Vienna with your kids, then Lainzer Wildlife Park is a place you must visit. As it is implied in its name, Lainzer is a park in Vienna.

The Lainzer Wildlife Park (Lainzer Tiergarten) is located in Vienna’s Woodlands and covers 24 square kilometers.

The hunting preserve of Emperor Joseph II was fenced off with a 24-kilometer-long stone wall in 1787 at the behest of Empress Maria Theresa.

Another tourist attraction on the outskirts of Vienna Woods is Baden bei Wien and you just can’t go to Lainzer and miss it.

Prague is another city that is worth checking out. The heart of the Czech Republic can be reached in less than 4 hours, making it perfect for those who want to spend their day in another European city.

Just like Budapest, Prague has plenty of activities to do. First, you can see the magnificent Prague Castle and see the ceremony when they change their guards. 

After going around Prague Castle, you dive into the city. There are other landmarks such as the Astronomical Clock or the Old Town which are certainly worth spending a few hours.

If you want to try something different, you can do a beer tour and taste the local beers in Prague.

There are an infinite amount of things to do in Prague so we’re sure you’ll find something fun to do!

In a nutshell, who is Prague for? Prague is basically for everyone from party lovers to architecture experts or simply for the ones that want to take a grasp of Central Europe without going too far away from Vienna.

The Czech capital, Prague, is one of the most famous places in Europe for architecture.

The city has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since it was designated as such in 1994, and its popularity among tourists and expats grows each year.

Best Day Tours from Vienna to Prague

All in all, one day trip from Vienna to Prague can seem somehow too quick and not enough. That said, if this is the only chance for you to discover Czech Republic’s capital, grab it with no hesitation as it’s definitely worth the time.

These are the best trips from Vienna to Prague:

• Vienna: 1-Day Trip to Prague Private Guided Tour
• From Vienna: Prague Day Trip with Guided Walking Tour

#6 Bratislava

If Prague and Budapest are too far for you, then you can try to visit Bratislava. The heart of Slovakia is just one hour away from Vienna, so you won’t need to worry about wasting time on the trip to the city.

And since the journey is just so quick, you can spend more time in the city when coming from Vienna.

Since Bratislava mainly consists of historical sites, you can spend the day visiting every one of the city’s landmarks. You can go to Bratislava Castle , St. Martin’s Cathedral , Primate’s Palace , Old Town Hall, and many more.

After you’re done with the historical landmarks, you can go to the Eurovea Waterfront and chill at one of the restaurants there. 

Apart from that, taking a Danube river boat tour is a great experience and a stunning way to see some of the beauty around Austria.

Best Day Tours from Vienna to Bratislava

As mentioned previously, Bratislava is only one hour away from Vienna and we’re certain you’ll have a great time there.

Here are some of the best day trips from Vienna to Bratislava you should take into consideration:

• From Vienna: 6-Hour Bratislava Sightseeing Tour
• From Vienna: Explore the Tastes of Bratislava on a Day Trip

Of course, you can also rent a car and cross the border to Slovakia. However, joining a tour will simply make your life easier and the price is really affordable for what you’re getting.

#7 The Village of Grinzing

What’s better than spending the day around the city? This list of day trips from Vienna wouldn’t be complete without the authentic village of Grinzing!

Grinzing is a picturesque, rural Austrian hamlet that dates back to 1114.

The village was destroyed numerous times by war, with the present buildings dating mostly from the nineteenth century and featuring woodland settings that make it an enjoyable place to explore.

Grinzing is unusual in that local legislation allows people to buy tiny pieces of property where vines may be cultivated.

It’s also well-known for its numerous typical Austrian eateries (Heuriger) where you’ll be able to taste the best delicacies in the region. 

Best Day Tour from Vienna to Grinzing

The absolute best day tour from Vienna to Grinzing features a 3-hour hike on the mountains of Kahlenberg and Leopoldsberg. From there. You’ll get to discover the views on the River Danube as well as the cityscape over Vienna.

What are the best months to travel to Vienna?

The most pleasant months to explore Vienna are from April to May and September through October. The mild climate in spring and fall attracts light crowds.

Most tourists come to Vienna during the summertime to enjoy its warm, sunny weather. 

June to August will be crowded due to summer vacation, but it is one of the best times to visit Vienna. During these months, the city will fill up, while rates will rise dramatically.

Last but not least, if you’re willing to spend some quality time in Austria for Christmas, Vienna is simply one of the best destinations in Europe when it comes to Christmas markets. 

What to bring on a day trip from Vienna?

So you’re ready to leave for Vienna but you’re not sure to have packed everything you need?

Other than the obvious essentials such as your passport and your backpack, here are all the things you should bring to go on day trips from Vienna.

• A Kindle e-book and your favorite Spotify playlist
• A power bank to charge your devices on the go
• An umbrella – especially during the fall and winter
• Good walking shoes – you’re surely going to walk a lot
• Some cash is always good to have – Austria uses Euros
• Don’t forget to bring a c amera – there’s just too much happening here
• Warm clothes – especially when going up the mountains or to Budapest

Naturally, there’s more to add depending on your personal preferences but these are the necessities we’re pretty confident you’re going to need.

You may also like…

• Exciting Places to Visit in Vienna in 48 Hours
• 9 Awesome Things to Do in Salzburg, Austria
• How to Spend the Perfect Weekend in Prague
• 21 Best Food Places in Prague That Expats Love
• 7 Awesome Day Trips From Prague You Need to Do

Recap of all the best day trips from Vienna

So there you have it: 7 fun day trips from Vienna!

Vienna has a lot of awesome hikes and cities to visit so there are tons of options for places to visit. We’re just scratching the surface with this post.

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Taylor Swift Felt Fear and Guilt Over Vienna Show Cancellation

Fans of the singer Taylor Swift make a heart shape with their hands as they gather following the cancellation of three Taylor Swift concerts at Happel stadium after the government confirmed a planned attack at the venue, in Vienna, Austria August 8, 2024. REUTERS/Elisabeth Mandl/files

By Lisa Richwine

LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - U.S. pop megastar Taylor Swift revealed on Wednesday that a "new sense of fear" came over her after authorities uncovered a plot to attack her Vienna concert venue as well as guilt for letting down fans by canceling her three shows in the city.

The singer also applauded authorities for foiling the plan to cause mass harm at Ernst Happel Stadium, the venue where she was scheduled to play.

"Thanks to them, we were grieving concerts and not lives," Swift said on Instagram in her first public comments since news of the planned attack surfaced two weeks ago.

Police in Austria arrested a 19-year-old man who they said confessed to wanting to cause a "bloodbath" at Swift's Eras Tour shows.

"Having our Vienna shows canceled was devastating," Swift said. "The reason for the cancellations filled me with a new sense of fear, and a tremendous amount of guilt because so many people had planned on coming to those shows."

Swift said she decided "all of my energy had to go toward helping to protect the nearly half a million people I had coming to see the shows in London."

The London dates took place without incident and concluded on Tuesday, ending the European leg of the record-breaking Eras Tour.

The singer said she had not commented earlier because she did not want to risk provoking harm at future concerts.

"Let me be very clear: I am not going to speak about something publicly if I think doing so might provoke those who would want to harm the fans who come to my shows," Swift wrote. "In cases like this one, 'silence' is actually showing restraint."

Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer responded to her post by saying Swift had sent a "clear message."

"We look forward to future and safe concerts from you and cordially invite you to Vienna!" he wrote on X.

The Eras Tour, the highest-grossing concert tour in history, is now on a scheduled break. It will resume with final dates from October through December in the United States and Canada.

(Reporting by Lisa Richwine, additional reporting by Dave Graham in Zurich; editing by Diane Craft and Ana Nicolaci da Costa)

Copyright 2024 Thomson Reuters .

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Taylor Swift breaks silence on Vienna terror plot, thankful 'we were grieving concerts and not lives'

The singer didn't mince words as she explained why she didn't previously address the foiled attack or the Eras Tour shows that were canceled as a result.

Taylor Swift is taking the opportunity to speak now after a foiled terror plot led to the cancellation of three Eras Tour concerts in Vienna earlier this month.

The singer, who just finished the European leg of her record-breaking world tour in London on Tuesday, commemorated the occasion Wednesday on Instagram and opened up for the first time about the canceled shows.

"We have officially wrapped the European leg of The Eras Tour," she began her lengthy post, which included a carousel of photos from the five-night stint in London. "With it came the most passionate crowds I’ve ever played for, new traditions in the show, and an entirely new era added in."

Buda Mendes/Getty Images

Swift then thanked her crew and fellow performers — calling them "the most impressive people" — before addressing the Vienna shows. "Walking onstage in London was a rollercoaster of emotions. Having our Vienna shows cancelled was devastating," she wrote. "The reason for the cancellations filled me with a new sense of fear, and a tremendous amount of guilt because so many people had planned on coming to those shows. But I was also so grateful to the authorities because thanks to them, we were grieving concerts and not lives."

Swift continued, "I was heartened by the love and unity I saw in the fans who banded together. I decided that all of my energy had to go toward helping to protect the nearly half a million people I had coming to see the shows in London. My team and I worked hand in hand with stadium staff and British authorities every day in pursuit of that goal, and I want to thank them for everything they did for us."

The "I Can Do It With a Broken Heart" singer was slated to perform three nights at Vienna's Ernst Happel Stadium beginning Aug. 8, but the shows were called off after two suspected terrorists were arrested in Austria the day before, and accused of plotting an attack on the shows. Though Swift's Taylor Nation social accounts reshared a statement from concert promoter  Barracuda Music  announcing the cancellations, the singer herself did not publicly address the situation, which upset some fans.

To that end, Swift didn't pull any punches. "Let me be very clear: I am not going to speak about something publicly if I think doing so might provoke those who would want to harm the fans who come to my shows," she said in her post Wednesday. "In cases like this one, 'silence' is actually showing restraint, and waiting to express yourself at a time when it's right to. My priority was finishing our European tour safely, and it is with great relief that I can say we did that."

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The 14-time Grammy winner concluded her post on a high note, shouting out some London tour highlights — including special guests and longtime friends Florence + the Machine, Jack Antonoff, and Ed Sheeran — and saying that "the energy in that stadium was like the most giant bear hug from 92,000 people each night and it brought me back to a place of carefree calm up there."

Now Swift and the rest of the Eras Tour crew will get a two-month break before resuming with the North American leg, which is the final portion of the tour, in October. Acknowledging this too, Swift ended her post, "We'll see you all again when we resume The Eras Tour in October, but for now we get to take a much needed rest. Thank you for the adventure of a lifetime. May it continue…"

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Ben affleck steps out without his wedding ring on the day jennifer lopez files for divorce.

Ben Affleck appeared unfazed while stepping out without his wedding ring Tuesday — the same day his estranged wife, Jennifer Lopez, filed for divorce .

The “Air” actor was photographed walking through a parking garage to reach his office in Los Angeles.

Affleck kept his look casual in a short-sleeve light gray T-shirt with a black lightning logo in the center, blue jeans and black and white Nike sneakers.

The Oscar winner, 52, added a pair of aviator sunglasses and a light brown watch but notably ditched his ring.

Page Six confirmed J.Lo submitted the court documents earlier in the day.

Tuesday also marked the second anniversary of the estranged couple’s Georgia wedding ceremony .

Lopez listed the date of their separation as April 26 in her filing.

An insider later claimed to People that Affleck showed “no interest” in trying to repair their marriage , so the “Let’s Get Loud” singer chose to end it.

“She’s very disappointed and sad, but Ben hasn’t given her any signs that he wants to continue their marriage. He hasn’t shown any commitment and interest in making their marriage work. It’s gotten to the point that she just needs to look out for herself,” the source said.

The “Gigli” co-stars, who first dated and got engaged in the early 2000s before reconciling in 2021 , reportedly did not have a prenuptial agreement .

“They’ve turned the page on all the unfinished business of 20-plus years ago. They’ve seen things through to the end — and they know for sure now that they are not built for the long haul,” a source previously told Page Six.

Affleck and Lopez have yet to release an official statement on their separation, but sources recently told us that the pair and their families are “ready to move on.”

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The “On the Floor” singer and the “Argo” star-director first sparked divorce rumors in May when he did not attend the Met Gala with her and subsequently moved out of their marital home and into a rental house in Brentwood, Calif.

They eventually listed their Beverly Hills mansion for $68 million in July, and Lopez has since been seen house-hunting in the LA area .

Both Lopez and Affleck have been photographed wearing and not wearing their wedding rings on several occasions.

However, they came together to celebrate their respective children’s milestones over the summer — including Affleck’s kids’s graduation parties .

Rumors continued to heat up after Lopez celebrated her 55th birthday in the Hamptons without Affleck in July, and she spent his 52nd birthday at a Bruno Mars concert in LA last week.

The duo held their extravagant Georgia wedding in August 2022 after legally tying the knot in Las Vegas that July.

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Taylor Swift speaks out on canceled Vienna shows — and explains why she waited until now

Taylor Swift is breaking her silence after a foiled terror plot led to three of her "Eras Tour" shows in Vienna, Austria, being canceled earlier this month.

Austrian police confirmed on Aug. 7 that they arrested two men who had allegedly planned to carry out attacks on major Vienna events, including Swift's concerts.

Swift's Vienna shows (Aug. 8, 9 and 10) were subsequently canceled, with all tickets being automatically refunded. At the time, Swift did not speak out about the foiled plot and went on to wrap up the European leg of her tour with several shows in London .

Now, in a post shared Aug. 21 , Swift is explaining why she waited to post about what happened in Vienna.

"Having our Vienna shows cancelled was devastating. The reason for the cancellations filled me with a new sense of fear, and a tremendous amount of guilt because so many people had planned on coming to those shows," she said, in part. "But I was also so grateful to the authorities because thanks to them, we were grieving concerts and not lives."

Swift added that she was "heartened by the love and unity" she saw in fans following the cancellations — many of them gathered to sing in Vienna together — and her team worked "hand in hand with stadium staff and British authorities" to make sure the London shows were as safe as possible.

"I decided that all of my energy had to go toward helping to protect the nearly half a million people I had coming to see the shows in London," she continued.

Swift went on to say that she intentionally did not comment on the Vienna cancellations.

"Let me be very clear: I am not going to speak about something publicly if I think doing so might provoke those who would want to harm the fans who come to my shows," she wrote. "In cases like this one, ‘silence’ is actually showing restraint, and waiting to express yourself at a time when it’s right to. My priority was finishing our European tour safely, and it is with great relief that I can say we did that."

Swift went on to celebrate her shows at Wembley Stadium — writing it felt "like a beautiful dream sequence" — and the end of this leg of the tour.

"We’ll see you all again when we resume The Eras Tour in October, but for now we get to take a much needed rest," she concluded. "Thank you for the adventure of a lifetime. May it continue…"

Swift will return to the stage on Oct. 18 at Miami's Hard Rock Stadium . She has several more shows in North America — New Orleans, Indianapolis, Toronto and Vancouver — before concluding the tour in early December.

Sam Kubota is a senior digital editor and journalist for TODAY Digital based in Los Angeles. She joined NBC News in 2019.

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