Austria-4-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Vienna

  • Arrival: Arrive at Vienna International Airport (VIE)
  • Transportation: Take the City Airport Train (CAT) or a taxi to your accommodation
  • Accommodation: Check-in to your hotel and freshen up
  • Places to go:
    • Schönbrunn Palace: Visit the stunning Schönbrunn Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site (9:00 AM - 5:00 PM)
    • St. Stephen’s Cathedral: Explore the historic St. Stephen’s Cathedral, one of Vienna’s most iconic landmarks
  • Activities:
    • Take a stroll through the beautiful gardens and grounds surrounding Schönbrunn Palace
    • Enjoy traditional Viennese coffee and cake at a local café
  • Things to know:
    • Austria uses the Euro currency (€)
    • Tipping is expected in restaurants and bars (5-10% of total bill)
    • Don’t forget your sunscreen and sunglasses for outdoor exploration
  • Visa requirements: If you’re a EU citizen, no visa required. For non-EU citizens, check with Austrian embassy or consulate in your country

Day 2: Vienna to Salzburg

  • Transportation: Take the train from Wien Hauptbahnhof (Vienna main station) to Salzburg Hbf (Salzburg main station)
  • Places to go:
    • Hohensalzburg Fortress: Explore the stunning Hohensalzburg Fortress, a medieval castle perched atop a hill
    • Mirabell Gardens: Visit the beautiful Mirabell Gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
    • Getreidegasse: Wander through this charming shopping street lined with boutique shops and cafes
  • Activities:
    • Take in the breathtaking views of Salzburg from the top of Hohensalzburg Fortress
    • Enjoy a leisurely walk along the picturesque streets of Salzburg’s Old Town
    • Try some traditional Austrian cuisine, such as schnitzel or strudel
  • Things to know:
    • Be prepared for crowds and lines at popular tourist attractions
    • Don’t miss the opportunity to take a scenic boat tour on Lake Hallstatt (optional)
    • Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting churches or monasteries

Day 3: Salzburg to Hallstatt

  • Transportation: Take the train from Salzburg Hbf to Hallstatt Bahnhof
  • Places to go:
    • Hallstatt Village: Explore this picturesque village, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
    • Lake Hallstatt: Enjoy a scenic boat tour or stroll along its picturesque shores
    • Dachstein Mountains: Take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys
  • Activities:
    • Try some traditional Austrian cuisine at a local restaurant or cafe
    • Visit the unique Salt Mine Museum, showcasing the history of Hallstatt’s salt mining industry
    • Enjoy a leisurely walk along the scenic streets and alleys of Hallstatt Village

Day 4: Return to Vienna

  • Transportation: Take the train from Hallstatt Bahnhof back to Wien Hauptbahnhof (Vienna main station)
  • Places to go:
    • Naschmarkt Market: Visit this bustling market, offering a variety of food stalls and shops
    • Stadtpark: Enjoy a stroll through this beautiful urban park, featuring gardens, walking paths, and a lake
  • Activities:
    • Try some traditional Viennese cuisine at a local restaurant or cafe
    • Explore the charming streets and alleys of Vienna’s Old Town
    • Visit any last-minute sights or attractions you missed on your first day in Vienna

Other things to know:

  • Tipping: As mentioned earlier, tipping is expected in restaurants and bars (5-10% of total bill)
  • Currency: Austria uses the Euro currency (€)
  • Language: While many Austrians speak English, it’s still a good idea to learn some basic German phrases
  • Weather: Be prepared for unpredictable weather, especially during spring or fall. Pack layers and waterproof gear.
  • Safety: Take normal precautions to ensure your safety while traveling. Avoid walking alone in isolated areas at night.

Additional tips:

  • Book accommodations: Book your hotel or hostel in advance to avoid availability issues
  • Research attractions: Research any specific sights, activities, or events you want to attend before arriving in Austria
  • Plan transportation: Plan your transportation in advance, especially if you’re not familiar with the train system
  • Respect local customs: Respect local traditions and customs, especially when visiting churches or monasteries