Day Trips from Vienna

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Handpicked tours
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Expert guides. Unique insights
Expert guides. Unique insights
Day trips from Vienna
























































From happy customers

Loved by 42 million+
Indranil Banerjee

Indranil

Sep 2023
5/5
It was an amazing day trip from Vienna to Salzburg. The guide Karl made the trip even better. Started from a very central location in front of the State Opera House. The journey and the views were spectacular. The bus was double storeyed and very comfortable. The views of locations where the iconic movie The Sound of Music was shot were spectacular. Once we reached Salzburg Karl showed us around on the walking tour and explained everything in great details. Wish we had another hour in Salzburg as a lot of time went away finding a good place to eat. The stops on the way had very expensive food and drinks. All in all a very good trip.
Shrishti Iyer
IN

Shrishti

India
Dec 2024
5/5
The convenience of getting there is the best part. The walking tour was great. We had plenty of time to explore Hallstatt by ourselves as well.
Qassem saleem

Qassem

Jul 2022
5/5
good evening , I really enjoyed the trip to Hallstatt, and enjoyed more with the group and the guide who was with us and explained everything about the lake and what is around, and therefore I highly recommend to everyone who intends to come to Austria and planning to see beautiful places like Hallstatt should know that your company is the right address for every tourist.
Ang Khai Meng
CN

Ang

China
Sep 2025
4/5
Relaxing cruise with a comfortable boat. Nice and plenty of time off to explore Dürnstein. Great to have all meals included.
Lora Bowler
US

Lora

United States
Sep 2025
5/5
This was a great day trip! Picked up the boat in Vienna and chose the Dürnstein option. It was a long day but so worth it! The river cruise was relaxing and so scenic. During the cruise we went through 2 locks which was a cool experience. Breakfast, lunch, snack and dinner with dessert was included and food was very good. Boat docked in Durnstein and we had just over 2 hours which was plenty of time. Did the hike up to Durnstein castle - amazing views of the Wachau valley! The town is very quaint and cute shops with a variety of items. This excursion was a great value for the price! Highly recommend.


Day trips from Vienna | Castles, lakes and cultural gems

Nestled along the Danube River, Vienna is a testament to the grandeur of imperial architecture, classical music, and rich cultural heritage. Beyond the city, you can choose from a variety of day trips from Vienna, each promising a unique facet of Austrian charm. Stop by iconic landmarks in Salzburg and Hallstatt, enjoy a boat tour from Bratislava, and soak in lush landscapes at the Wachau Valley.

Quick overview

  • Trip duration: Typically 5 to 12 hours per day trip
  • Transport options: Reliable train services, coach tours, and self-guided bus routes
  • Key destinations: Salzburg, Hallstatt, Wachau Valley, Bratislava
  • Travel style: Options available for guided tours and itineraries
  • Best seasons: Spring and autumn for mild weather and fewer crowds

What to expect on a Vienna day trip

Salzburg Old town and castle, Austria
Hallstatt old town with lakeside view and church spire, Austria.
Tour guide discussing with a visitor on a bridge in Hallstatt, Austria, with lake and church in background.
Tour guide leading a group through the streets of Hallstatt.
Cable car ascending to Salzwelten with Hallstatt village and lake view, Austria.
Young couple tasting wine in Hallstat.
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Cultural variety

Day trips from Vienna let you explore Mozart’s Salzburg, medieval Bratislava, or baroque gems like Melk Abbey, all within a day.

Scenic escapes

Leave the city behind for Alpine lakes, vineyard valleys, and picturesque villages.

Guided convenience

Enjoy expert guides, skip-the-line entry, and seamless transfers for a stress-free experience.

Flexible options

Choose from full-day tours, small groups, or self-guided trips tailored to your pace.

Unique experiences

Cruise the Danube, ride mountain trains, or stroll cobbled town squares.

Local flavors

Sample regional wines, pastries, and authentic dishes away from the tourist crowds.

Things to know before booking day trips from Vienna

  • Choose from fairy-tale alpine villages like Hallstatt, wine-rich regions like the Wachau Valley, or cross-border adventures to Bratislava and Salzburg. Each tour is carefully curated to showcase highlights without feeling rushed.
  • Not all destinations are wheelchair accessible. Alpine villages like Hallstatt have steep streets and uneven terrain, and historic old towns often feature cobblestones or stairs. If accessibility is a concern, check the tour details in advance.
  • Most tours include round-trip transport in air-conditioned coaches and a professional guide. Some itineraries add special experiences like a Danube River cruise in the Wachau Valley, a boat ride in Hallstatt, or a wine tasting session. Meals are usually not included, but tours allow free time for lunch at local restaurants or taverns.
  • Austria’s landscapes change dramatically with the seasons. Summer tours are popular for lake cruises and outdoor sightseeing, while winter tours may include snow-covered Alpine scenery. Be sure to plan your visit after checking all the details that also suits your preferences.
  • Day trips to Hallstatt and Salzburg are in high demand, particularly during summer and holiday seasons. To avoid disappointment, book at least 3–5 days in advance. Smaller group tours also fill up quickly due to limited capacity, so plan ahead if you want a more intimate experience.
  • Expect early morning departures from Vienna, with most tours lasting 10–12 hours. Travel times vary: about 1 hour to Bratislava and 3 hours to Salzburg or Hallstatt

Which day trip from Vienna is best for you?

Experience nameDurationRecommended tickets

From Vienna: Wachau, Melk Abbey & Danube Valley Day Trip

9hrs

Book now

From Vienna/Salzburg: Hallstatt Day Trip by Bus

12hrs

Book now

From Vienna: Salzburg Day Trip by Bus

12hrs

Book now

From Vienna: Bratislava or Durnstein & Wachau Full Day Trip

13hrs

Book now
Skip the planning stress, day trips from Vienna do it all for you!

Guided day trips from Vienna save hours, no train swaps, reserved tickets to top sights, and expert guides who turn castles and lakes into living history.

Key destinations for day trips from Vienna

Birthplace of Mozart, yellow building facade in Salzburg, Austria.

Salzburg

Salzburg dazzles visitors with its baroque architecture, rich musical legacy, and picturesque Alpine backdrop.

  • Highlights: Visit Mozart’s birthplace, stroll through the Mirabell Gardens, and tour the imposing Hohensalzburg Fortress.
  • Getting there: Fast, frequent trains connect Vienna to Salzburg in roughly 2.5 hours.
  • Travel tip: Plan an early start to fully explore the city’s vibrant old town before the crowds arrive.
Hallstatt village by the lake with mountains in summer, Salzkammergut, Austria.

Hallstatt

Often described as a living postcard, Hallstatt captivates with its serene lake setting and ancient salt mines.

  • Highlights: Wander the charming streets, enjoy a boat ride on the pristine lake, and visit the world-famous salt mine.
  • Getting there: A combination of train and bus rides takes approximately 3.5 to 4 hours round-trip from Vienna to Hallstatt.
  • Travel tip: For a quieter experience, visit during the shoulder seasons when tourist numbers are lower.
Dürnstein village with blue church tower and Danube River, Wachau Valley, Austria.

Wachau Valley

Rich in history and natural beauty, the Valley enchants with its rolling vineyards, castles, and quaint villages along the Danube.

  • Highlights: Tour the Melk Abbey, sample local wines during a tasting session, and take a scenic Danube cruise.
  • Getting there: Just a short train ride or guided tour away, the Wachau Valley offers vineyard landscapes and Danube views.

  • Travel tip: Combine your visit with a bike ride through Wachau’s vineyard trails along the Danube, passing quaint villages and river views.

Bratislava Castle overlooking colorful rooftops in Bratislava, Slovakia.

Bratislava

Just across the border in Slovakia, Bratislava presents a delightful contrast to Vienna with its medieval old town and dynamic urban energy.

  • Highlights: Explore Bratislava Castle, enjoy riverside cafés, and wander through narrow streets filled with history.
  • Getting there: With trains and buses taking less than an hour, Bratislava makes for an efficient yet immersive day trip.
  • Travel tip: Consider a guided walking tour to uncover hidden corners and captivating stories of this compact capital.

Best time to take a day trip from Vienna

Couple overlooking Hallstatt village and lake with mountains in the background on a day trip from Vienna.
  • Weather: Spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) offer mild temperatures and sunny days, perfect for outdoor activities like lake cruises in Hallstatt or vineyard walks in the Wachau Valley. July and August are warm but can get uncomfortably hot in the city and crowded destinations. Winters (December–February) are cold, but Alpine tours bring snowy scenery that’s especially magical.
  • Events: Vienna and its nearby regions host plenty of seasonal highlights. Summer brings wine festivals in the Wachau Valley and open-air concerts in Salzburg. December lights up with Christmas markets in Vienna, Bratislava, and Salzburg, adding charm to winter tours. 
  • Crowds: July and August are peak months, especially for Hallstatt and Salzburg, where tours often sell out. Expect larger groups and busier attractions. Spring and autumn offer fewer crowds and smoother experiences, while winter sees smaller groups but requires warmer clothing and planning for shorter daylight hours.

Plan your day trips from Vienna

Family walking through a charming street in Hallstatt, Austria, during a day trip from Vienna.

Currency: the Euro (€)

Language: German

City code: +43

Emergency numbers:

  • European emergency number: 112
  • Fire service: 122
  • Police: 133
  • Mountain rescue: 140
  • Ambulance service: 144
Passenger enjoying scenic view from AC coach, Hallstatt.
  • Vienna U-Bahn: The U-Bahn is the underground metro system in Vienna, consisting of five lines. It is budget-friendly, fast, and efficient for covering longer distances. Use U4 to reach Schönbrunn Palace and U2 for the Museum Quarter.
  • Trams: Trams 1 and 2 provide a scenic route around the Ringstrasse, passing major landmarks like the State Opera and Hofburg Palace.
  • Buses: Bus 2A takes you up to Kahlenberg, offering panoramic views of Vienna. Bus 48A is convenient for reaching the Vienna Woods and the Lainzer Tiergarten.
  • City bikes: Vienna has a bike-sharing system, Citybike Wien, making it easy to cycle around the city. Many bike lanes provide a safe and enjoyable way to explore landmarks like the Prater and Danube Canal.
  • Walking: Vienna is a pedestrian-friendly city, and many of its landmarks are within walking distance. It is best to explore the historic center, including St. Stephen's Cathedral, Hofburg Palace, and Albertina, on foot.
Belvedere Palace exterior with fountains and sculptures in Vienna, Austria.
  • Belvedere Palace: The Belvedere Palace showcases exquisite Baroque architecture, enthralling visitors with its splendid gardens and housing an impressive art collection, including Gustav Klimt's The Kiss.
  • Sigmund Freud Museum: The Sigmund Freud Museum in Vienna preserves the legendary psychoanalyst's former home, offering insight into his life and groundbreaking work in the field of psychology.
  • Weltmuseum: Vienna's Weltmuseum boasts a rich ethnographic collection, showcasing artifacts from cultures around the globe, and providing a fascinating exploration of world history and cultural diversity.
  • Mozarthaus Vienna: Mozarthaus Vienna, Mozart's former residence, allows you to immerse yourself in the composer's world and features exhibits on his life, music, and the cultural scene of 18th-century Vienna.
Outdoor cafe table overlooking lake and Alps in Hallstatt, Austria.
  • Wiener Wiaz Haus: Serves a large collection of Central European dishes with vegetarian and gluten-free options.
  • Pramerl and the Wolf: Head to Pramerl and the Wolf if you want to splurge on a Michelin-starred restaurant, They have no a-ala-carte menu. You can choose between a small or a larger set of meals. 
  • Lugeck: If you want to try modernized versions of local dishes suited for a more international palate, head to Lugeck. Their Russian fried buns and Tafelspitz are very popular. 
  • Cafe Kandi: This cafe is a little pricey but it’s worth a visit for their beautiful selection of natural wines that complement their dishes perfectly. 
  • Thell: A decade-old establishment on 5th Street, Thell is famous for its elegant takes on classic favorites like Tafelspitz and strawberry nougat dumplings. 
Hotel room with mountain view through large window.
  • Budget stays:
    MEININGER Hotel Wien Downtown Franz
    Vienna Hostel Ruthensteiner
    Leonardo Hotel Vienna Schonnbrunn
  • Mid-range hotels:
    Mercure Grand Hotel Biedermeier Wien
    Double Tree by Hilton Vienna Schonbrunn
    Boutique Hotel Donauwalzer
  • Luxury hotels:
    Hotel Imperial
    Hotel Sacher Wien
    Hotel Bristol
Woman examining traditional puppets on display in Austria.
  • In Vienna:
    Naschmarket: Known for its spices, international cuisine, and antiques
    Kartner Strasse: Best finds include high-end boutiques, local Austrian shops, and international brands
    Graben: Lined with flagship stores of renowned local and international brands
  • Around Vienna:
    Getreidegasse: Salzburg’s most famous street known for its historic buildings and Mozart-themed souvenirs
    Bratislava Old Town market: Features local crafts, handmade products, and traditional Slovakian goods
    Durnstein: Located in the charming Wachau Valley, this market offers local wines and handmade keepsakes
    Great Market Hall: Also known as Nagyavasarcsarnok, it is Budapest’s largest indoor market known for its spices and traditional snacks
    Wenceslas Square: A central hub of shopping and entertainment in Prague, it offers many shops, boutiques, and department stores
Senior man reading a book on a train journey.
  • Check transportation options: When planning your itinerary, check train and bus timings and ticket prices to better optimize your time. You can also choose tickets that include transfers and hotel pick-up services for a more hassle-free experience. 
  • Arrive early: We recommend you set out on your day trip from Vienna early in the morning to reach your destination around noon hours or in the afternoon. It is generally less crowded and you can explore comfortably. 
  • Separate your waste: Waste separation is a common practice in Austria. When disposing of your waste on your day trip from Vienna, be sure to sort them into appropriate bins for recycling. 
  • Tipping culture: Tipping is quite common in and around Vienna. The most common practice is to round up the bill or leave a tip of around 5% to 10% of the total amount. 
  • Pick up a few German phrases: While most Austrians speak English, learning a few German phrases goes a long way. You will have an easier time navigating the local markets better if you know a few greetings and common phrases. 

Frequently asked questions about Vienna day trips

What are some popular day trip destinations from Vienna?

Explore cultural landmarks in Bratislava and Salzburg, and soak in the scenic beauty of the Wachau Valley on day trips from Vienna. The city’s strategic location makes it the perfect spot to plan day trips from.

Are Vienna day trip tickets available online?

Yes, you can book Vienna day trip tickets online. It is recommended to book tickets weeks in advance, for the summer months between April to May attract a large number of tourists. With online tickets, you can ensure guaranteed access to the attractions no matter the crowd on the day of your visit.

What transportation options are available for day trips from Vienna?

You can use the U-Bahn subway, buses, and trams to navigate in and around Vienna. We recommend purchasing day trips from Vienna that include transfers in comfortable modern coaches and buses. Enjoy pick-ups and drop-off from designated meeting points, ensuring a hassle-free touring experience.

Are guided tours included with Vienna day trips?

Yes, all day trips from Vienna feature guided walking tours in English or German, providing rich insights into the historical significance of the landmarks. Wander through the cobblestone streets of Bratislava and learn more about their blend of medieval and modern architecture, construction details, and more.

How can I make the most of a day trip to Hallstatt from Vienna?

If you are a history enthusiast, you will love to visit Hallstatt on a day trip from Vienna. The quaint village town is famous for its 7,000-year-old salt mines, scenic lakes, and artisanal souvenirs.

Can I combine multiple Vienna day trips into a weekend itinerary?

Yes, if you want to make the most of a weekend, you can cram at least 2 to 3 diverse experiences on day trips from Vienna. Bratislava and Salzburg offer a number of cultural landmarks. The Wachau Valley is a scenic paradise.

Are these trips suitable for children or older adults?

Yes, most tours are family-friendly with comfortable transport. Just note that some places involve walking on cobblestones, so good shoes are recommended.

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