12 Days in Austria: Alpine Road Trip
Absorb Austria's alpine atmosphere and architectural amazements on this scenic 12-day road trip from Vienna to Gmunden, Salzburg, Bad Gastein, and Innsbruck.
Austria
12 days / 11 nights
$5,400 /person
$5,400 /person
Your trip at a glance
Top Activities
Relaxing in a thermal cave spa in Austria's wellness haven of Bad Gastein
Riding Innsbruck's Nordkette cable car for thrilling and terrific views of the Alps
Savoring warm, rich, and traditional Austrian pastries in Vienna's opulent cafes
Stopping at wineries, villages, and monasteries across the Wachau Valley
Listening to the melodies of Salzburg on a day trip to Mozart's hometown
Whimsy of the Wachau Valley and Road to Gmunden
Overview
After two melodic and magical days in Vienna, you’ll check out of your hotel and commence your Austrian road trip. After breakfast, pick up your rental car from the predetermined location, and set off on your self-guided adventure. With your own vehicle, you’ll enjoy full flexibility to explore Austria’s countryside at your own pace. Today’s destination? Gmunden, which you’ll reach by way of the scenic Wachau Valley, where rolling vineyards, riverside villages, and sweeping Danube views converge. Within the valley, you’ll have the chance to visit Melk Abbey, an impressive hilltop monastery known for its grand architecture and peaceful surroundings, as well as Dürnstein, a wine-famous oasis. You’ll reach Gmunden by the afternoon. After checking in to your hotel, where you’ll spend a total of three nights, you'll have tonight at leisure, so you can acclimate to your new and oh-so scenic surroundings according to your own preferences. Hello, Austrian bliss. (Breakfast)
Highlights
Wachau Valley Drive
As a UNESCO World Heritage region, Austria’s Wachau Valley boasts rolling vineyards, historic villages, and otherworldly views, all anchored by the Danube River. As you embark on today's self-guided drive, you’ll see the best of the best, watching as Austria’s storybook unfolds outside your window.
Dürnstein
Famous for its blue church, medieval streets, and beautiful riverfront setting, Dürnstein makes for the ideal detour, presenting you with all the views and vantage points of this varied valley. During this road trip stop, you’ll have the chance to partake in an optional walk or short hike, gaining memorable views of the valley. Alternatively, you can always settle in at a local cafe for a buttery pastry and regional specialties. If you’re up for a winery trip, you can also tack on a vineyard visit in or around town.
Melk Abbey
The epitome of Baroque beauty, this historic monastery ranks among the best and biggest examples of Baroque architecture in all of Europe. The monastery dates back to 1089, when monks first came to live, work, and worship within the ornate building. Nowadays, some 22 monks still live on-site, carrying over centuries-old traditions and maintaining the abbey’s spiritual significance.
Accommodations
Zum Goldenen Hirschen (or similar)
This charming and elegant retreat in the heart of Gmunden blends historic character with refined comfort. Just steps from the town’s picturesque streets and the shores of Lake Traunsee, the hotel offers a warm and intimate atmosphere that reflects the spirit of the Salzkammergut region. Stylish interiors, thoughtful details, and a welcoming ambiance make this boutique hotel an ideal place to relax after a day of exploration. Whether you're enjoying a leisurely breakfast, unwinding in the spa area, or stepping outside to discover Gmunden’s lakeside charm, Zum Goldenen Hirschen promises a memorable and comfortable stay in a truly beautiful setting.
Location:
Linzerstraße 4, 4810 Gmunden, Austria
Phone:
+43761223444
Transportation
Pick up your rental car at the scheduled provider before driving yourself through the Wachau Valley. You’ll make stops en route to Gmunden, which, at its most direct route, is roughly two and a half hours away.
Vienna
Gmunden, Zum Goldenen Hirschen (or similar)
How it works
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What's included
Included in the final price
- Roadbook with local tips and expert recommendations
- 24/7 on-the-ground support
- On-trip concierge service
- Personalized trip crafting
- Entry and exit information and assistance
- Accommodations for 11 nights
- All meals mentioned in the itinerary
- All tours, activities, and guided experiences mentioned in the itinerary
- All ground transfers mentioned in the itinerary
- Everything else cited as included in the itinerary
Not included in the final price
- International arrival and departure flights
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses and gratuities
- Anything not mentioned or listed as optional in the itinerary