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14 Best Day Trips from Vienna
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.
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
Vienna Woods and Seegrotte Hinterbrühl
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.
Own transport
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.
Organized tours
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.
Public transport
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.
Where to stay in Vienna
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.
HISTORY & LUXURY
This famous 5-star hotel in Vienna combines timeless elegance with modern comfort and is an all-time favorite.
BEST VIEWS
Located in the highest building on Ringstrasse, this hotel offers modern rooms with the best views over Vienna’s city center.
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
Best day trips from 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
Klosterneuburg Abbey
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:
Day ticket for Klosterneuburg Abbey
3 Castles and Wine Tasting Tour in Danube Valley from Vienna
Seegrotte Hinterbrühl
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
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
Carnuntum
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.
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Eisenstadt & Esterhazy Palace
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.
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Melk
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
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’
Mauthausen Concentration Camp
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:
Graz
Graz is Austria’s second-largest city and boasts a well-preserved old town, vibrant arts scene, and culinary delights. There are many things to see in Graz like 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
Hallstatt
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.
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Salzburg
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, Slovakia
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
Cesky Krumlov, Czech Republic
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
Budapest, Hungary
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
Széchenyi Thermal Spa Full-Day Tickets / Thermal BeerSpa + Széchenyi ticket (skip the line)
Prague, Czech Republic
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
Best time to visit Vienna for day trips
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.
Planning a trip to Vienna?
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!
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Travel Insurance
Good travel insurance is an absolute must when traveling abroad, and I’ve learned that the hard way!
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