24 Day Trips from Vienna

If your holidays in Vienna last long enough to tire of the coffee, culture and imperial architecture, then you might want to escape the city's bounds. Explore ancient castles, lush forests and beyond with these day trips from Vienna, Austria.

vienna is the best base for day trips

Vienna is known for its striking imperial architecture, world-famous composers and drool-worthy culinary scene.

Pack your Vienna trip with music and markets and leave plenty of room for dreamy Sachertorte chocolate cake.

For a break from the coffee house culture, discover the dazzling diversity of day trips from Vienna. The ‘City of Music’ (Stadt der Musik) is located at the Danube and provides the perfect gateway to many top travel destinations.

Idyllic lakeside villages, Medieval abbeys and steaming thermal springs set the scene for adventure. And now, it’s up to you to decide.

Whether you want to waltz around Austria or cross the borders and go abroad, there’s a world of possibilities to uncover.

Best Day Trips from Vienna, Austria

Vienna is well-connected with big cities and rural towns and getting to popular travel destinations is fairly straightforward. Whether you drive or take public transport, the capital city serves as the ultimate base to discover nearby hot spots. Here’s a summary of the top day trips:

day trips from vienna
  • Myra Falls

  • Lutzmannsburg

  • Győr

  • Grinzing

  • Devin Castle

  • Brno

  • Lake Bled

  • Graz

  • Vienna Woods

  • Mauthausen Concentration Camp Memorial

  • Prague

  • Sopron

  • Ljubljana

  • Melk Abbey

  • Carnuntum Roman reconstructions 

  • Bratislava 

  • The Alps

  • Klosterneuburg Abbey

  • Schloss Hof estate 

  • Wachau Valley 

  • Budapest 

  • Český Krumlov

  • Salzburg

  • Hallstatt 

24. Myra Falls

Let’s kick off this list with Myra Falls (Myrafälle), which is located just a short drive southwest of Vienna.

Escape the buzzing city vibes and get off the beaten track in this natural paradise. Myra Falls is illustrated by green forests, flowing waterfalls and all-round spectacular scenery.

Situated near the village of Moggendorf, you can breathe in the fresh air, enjoy a brisk hike through the trails and feel like you’re worlds away from Austria’s capital city. If you’re seeking tranquillity and quality time in nature, you cannot go wrong with a day trip to Myra Falls.

23. Lutzmannsburg

Lutzmannsburg is located about a 90-minute drive south of Vienna. Sitting on the Austrian border, it’s coined as one of the best Vienna day trips for rest and relaxation.

Enjoy a one-day getaway at the major spa complex, Sonnentherme Lutzmannsburg. Equipped with family-friendly activities, waterslides, pools and diving towers, there’s even an indoor and outdoor waterpark.

If you’re looking for something a little more intimate, head into the adults-only area, ‘Sauna World’. Pamper yourself with different skincare treatments and enjoy the smells of locally-made lotions, infused body scrubs and herbal fragrances.

22. Győr

This Hungarian city shines a light on traditional culinary and cultural experiences. Gyor is one of the best Vienna day trips by train and it only takes around one hour from Wien Hauptbahnhof.

Once you arrive in Gyor, get the day started with a quick trip to the Gyori Városháza (City Town Hall). This grandiose building overlooks a fountain-fringed square that oozes European romance.

Step foot into the cobbled Old Town, stroll around the colourful buildings and sip coffee at one of the myriad cafes. Don’t miss the Benedictine Church of St. Ignatius of Loyola, Szechenyi Square and the Carmelite Church.

21. Grinzing

It’s no secret that Austria is a well-known wine destination, and many vineyards offer the perfect day trip from Vienna.

Once you’ve ticked off all the top things to do in Vienna, get ready to explore the wine scene in Austria. Vienna is home to over 700 hectares of vineyards alone, meaning that the opportunities to sip and sample the day away are endless.

Channel your inner sommelier as you discover the vineyard-hugging slopes and wine villages that sit beneath the Vienna Woods. One of the most famous villages is Grinzing, a small town that can be reached by tram from Schottentor U-Bahn Station. 

Spend your day wandering the laneways and soaking in the ambience of this charming village. Grinzing was even home to famous painters, musicians and writers over the centuries, so if you’re interested in big names like Beethoven and Schubert, you’ll surely fall in love with this city.

After a big day of strolling the city streets, wind down at a traditional wine tavern called Heuriger. During the summer season, you can enjoy the tastes of traditional dishes paired with local wines in the outdoors.

 
 

20. Devin Castle

Situated about an hour’s drive from the imperial city, Devin Castle boasts breathtaking scenery all around.

Located in Bratislava, the Slovakian castle overlooks the Danube and Morava Rivers. Devin Castle is believed to have been occupied during the Neolithic period and over the years, it has been influenced by the Celtics, Germanic tribes and even the Romans.

As you wander around the castle, you’ll get a feel for the mix of cultural influences. Discover the ruins of old buildings and cross the small bridge to the main courtyard. Once you’ve checked out the remnants at the Garay Palace and the Upper Castle, admire the views of the Slovakian countryside.

19. Brno

Brno brings the best of both worlds, with both modern and old at the forefront. The second-largest city in the Czech Republic makes for one of the top day trips from Vienna by train. So let’s dive a little deeper.

From the remarkable architecture to the delectable food, beer and wine scene, Brno is brimming with travel opportunities. Kick off your morning in the Petrov Cathedral (St. Paul’s and Peter’s Cathedral), and then make your way up to the Špilberk Castle.

Lastly, tick off the second-largest ossuary in Europe off your list, the St. James Ossuary (Kostnice u Svatého Jakuba). Sprinkle in some time in the main square, Náměstí Svobody, before visiting the UNESCO-listed Vila Tugendhat. This Czech city is only one and a half hours by train or two hours by bus from Vienna, making it a quick and affordable day trip.

lake bled is close to vienna austria

18. Lake Bled

Surrounded by blindingly blue water and rolling hilltops, Lake Bled is one of the biggest destinations in Slovenia.

It’s easy to see why this is one of the best day trips from Vienna. A white church sits on a tiny island in the middle of a lake. I mean, could it get any more magical?

It takes around four hours to reach Lake Bled from Vienna by car. It’s best to leave as early as possible, or, book a guided tour so you don’t have to worry about the long commute.

As lengthy as the drive is, it most definitely is worth it. Feel like you’re in a fairytale and book a dinner in the castle, or cruise around the island on a traditional Pletna boat tour.

17. Graz

Graz is Austria’s second-largest city and it’s pinned as the culinary capital. Pack your appetite if you’re a foodie, because this place will send you into a food frenzy. Yeehaw!

Graz is one of the top-rated day trips from Vienna by train, and the journey only takes around 2.5 to 3 hours.

Stroll up the steps to one of the most famous landmarks, Uhrturm. Or if not you’re feeling up to the challenge, jump inside the cable car, ‘Schlossbergbahn’.

Get your art fix inside the modern art museum, ‘Kunsthaus’ or roam through the leafy park, Schloss Eggenberg.

16. Vienna Woods

The City of Music is as enchanting as it gets and some time in nature could really amplify your experience. The Vienna Woods sits just outside the city’s outskirts, making it one of the best day trips from Vienna by train.

Located about 50 kilometres from Vienna’s city centre, you can indulge in all things outdoors. Spend the day sampling local wines in the vineyards, walking through the trails and visiting the postcard-worthy villages.  

The Vienna Woods (Wienerwald) is a large forested area that’s perfect for hiking or cycling. This UNESCO-listed Biosphere Reserve is home to a huge haul of highlights, from the 900-year-old Heiligenkreuz Abbey to the largest lake in Europe, Hinterbrühl Lake Grotto.

15. Mauthausen Concentration Camp Memorial

Austria is jam-packed with history, and the Mauthausen Concentration Camp Memorial provides an eerie insight into the country’s past.

This Vienna day trip includes a visit to the historic premises and new museum.

The Mauthausen Concentration Camp was one of the biggest labour camps in the Third Reich. The Mauthausen Memorial honours the memories of those who lost their lives, and you can really get a feel for the some of darkest days in Austria’s history.

Listen to an audio guide and take a deep dive into life in the camp during World War II. Pay your respects as you walk through the Room of Names, and don’t miss the Wiener-Graben Quarry, the SS Quarters and the prisoners' barracks.

 
 
prague day trip from vienna austria

14. Prague

Calling all culture vultures! Cross the borders and pop into Prague on a day trip from Vienna.

Prague is coined for its artistic flair and endless attractions. Tick off highlights like the Charles Bridge and the National Theatre, before winding up the day with a crispy Czech beer.

As you explore the ‘Golden City’, don’t miss the Old Town Square and Jewish Cemetery. Immerse yourself in the atmosphere of Parisian Street and Wenceslas Square.

The architecture features a melting pot of cultural influences, so keep an eye out for the Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque masterpieces. You’ll even spot buildings from the Romanesque, Art Nouveau and the Communist eras.

 
 

13. Sopron

Sopron sits across the border in Hungary, and surprisingly, it’s still pinned as one of Europe’s hidden gems. This is an easy day trip from Vienna by train, taking just over an hour to arrive. Sopron is encircled by glassy lakes and lush forests, making it an enchanting natural respite.

The Old Town is built on the ancient Roman city of Scarbantia and some sections have been excavated. If you want a dose of its Roman past, head over to see the walls and Forum which are right next to the Old Town Square.

Marvel at the baroque and medieval influences, sip coffee in the charming squares and wander over to Sopron’s main landmark, the 58-metre fire tower, the Tűztorony. If you have some extra time on your hands, drive through the forests, indulge at the wineries and learn the history at the monasteries.

12. Ljubljana

Slovenia’s capital city, Ljubljana, is a hot spot for culture enthusiasts and music lovers alike.

Boasting theatres, museums and an abundance of art galleries, Ljubljana is home to one of the oldest philharmonic orchestras in the world. This is one of the best day trips from Vienna. And although the journey is around three and a half hours, it sure is worth it.

Slovenia’s capital is fairly compact, making it easy to see the major highlights in little time. Start your day trip in the cobbled Old Town and walk across the famous triple bridge, Tromostovje. Stop by Baroque churches, feel like royalty in the palaces and don’t miss the works of the famous architect Plečnik.

11. Melk Abbey

The small town of Melk is about a one-hour train trip from Vienna. But the Melk Abbey is without a doubt, the main attraction here. Straddling a hill above the Old Town, the Stift Melk has a history that dates back over 1000 years. Yowza!

The abbey was rebuilt in the 1700s and features breathtaking Baroque architecture and views of the Danube Valley. Get educated in the museum, sift through the old library and visit the gorgeously manicured gardens.

The Melk Abbey is known for having the remains of Austria's first ruling dynasty, the House of Babenberg, along with the tomb of St. Coloman of Stockerau. This is one of the best day trips from Vienna by train, especially if you’re interested in Austria’s historical background.

10. Carnuntum Roman Reconstructions

The Carnuntum Roman Reconstructions offer insight into Vienna’s Roman history and the city was once known as Vindobana, a large military establishment.

This is one of the top-rated day trips from Vienna as it’s located about 40 kilometres away. There are four areas to explore at Austria’s impressive Roman archaeological park - the outdoor area, indoor exhibition, restaurant and ticket office.

This Roman town and military base has a haul of historical sites to visit. Don’t miss the expansive reconstructions, museum and two amphitheatres.

9. Bratislava

If you want to cross the borders into Slovakia, Bratislava is your best bet. The capital city is famous for its food and beer culture, quirky art and cobblestone streets.

There are many day trips from Vienna to Bratislava, and even just a day here will allow you to see most of the city’s main attractions. Kickstart your day in the Old Town, the most picturesque part of the city.

Stop by Michael’s Gate, one of the four gates that remains from when Bratislava was a fortified city. Then, head into the Old Town Hall, a picture-perfect square that’s lined with colourful buildings and detailed statues. Here, you’ll also find the city’s oldest museum, the Bratislava City Museum. You can even climb up to the viewing tower to catch some epic views of the square below.

A day trip to Bratislava from Vienna offers many possibilities for travellers, from culinary to cultural delights. Among the highlights, be sure to add Grassalkovich Palace, a Rococo-style residence of the President of Slovakia to your bucket list.

Bratislava is one of the closest cities to Vienna, and getting there is relatively easy. Opt for a guided tour for convenience, or board a train and set your own schedule. The train to Bratislava leaves from Vienna Hauptbahnhof and you can get tickets from the ticket machines. The total journey time is just over an hour.

 
 

8. The Alps

Austria is coined for chocolate, coffee and its misty mountain tops. The Alps are a must-see on your visit to Vienna, especially if you’re a nature aficionado.

The Alps cover most of the length of the country. They’re about 1200 km long and the mountains are fairly close to the city. Vienna is home to a ‘local’ ski resort called Semmering Hirschenkogel. This travel destination makes for a great winter escape for snow sports like skiing and snowboarding.

When the Austrian Alps are mentioned, people tend to think of big cities like Salzburg and Innsbruck. But the mountain range actually stretches across to most of the west side. If you want to head into the mountains, make sure you check travel and weather conditions first.

The Schneeberg mountain is the easiest to reach by public transport. Other popular winter destinations include Rax and Hermannskogel in the Viennese Hills.

7. Klosterneuburg Abbey

Next up on the list, is Klosterneuburg Abbey. This Vienna day trip is situated in the foothills of the Vienna Woods, right next to the Danube. Making it a quick and easy journey by train or bus.

The idyllic landscape is illustrated by a long history of cultural and traditional influences. The 12th-century Klosterneuburg Abbey hosts a small treasury and a handful of exhibits. Book a tour and head into the Baroque wing that was built for Emperor Charles VI back in the 1730s. Marvel at the church, cloisters and chapels and don’t skip the medieval Verdun Altar.

Every July and August, there’s an open-air opera festival in the ‘Kaiserhof’ of the monastery. On top of that, enjoy activities like swimming and cycling the Danube, or mountain biking in the Vienna Woods. During Vienna’s winter, you can also enjoy ice skating and skiing.

6. Schloss Hof Estate

Talk about royalty… This striking Baroque residence is equipped with terraced gardens and idyllic rural vibes.

A day trip from Vienna to Schloss Hof Estate is full of surprises, from the hidden rose gardens to the free-wandering turkeys. Tour the two-story palace, waltz around the gardens and appreciate the historical and cultural significance.

Spread across seventy hectares in eastern Lower Austria, the Schloss Hof Estate is just an hour away from Vienna by car. As one of the most impressive homes in the Habsburg Empire, the palace has a long-standing history since it was built in 1726 for Prince Eugene of Savoy.

5. Wachau Valley

Ain’t no party like a wine-tasting party. And there’s no other way to indulge your senses than by heading on a Wachau Valley day tour.

Discover the character-packed villages, historical hot spots and panoramic landscapes on a day trip to Wachau Valley from Vienna. Immerse yourself in the area's culture and history, sample the flavours in a wine tasting and nibble on local produce.

Relax on a cruise along the Danube River, visit the Melk Abbey and Weissenkirchen and explore the medieval town of Dürnstein. In this little town, taste liqueurs and local white wines at a Heuriger, a traditional family-run Austrian tavern. For the ultimate foodie experience, pair dry and fruity white wines with local delicacies like apricot jam.

 
 
budapest day trip from vienna austria

4. Budapest

Boom bam baby, you can’t go wrong with the Hungarian capital city, Budapest.

It’s no secret that Budapest is one of the best day trips from Vienna. Learn about Hungarian history and the rich culture as you discover sites like Heroes’ Square and the Hungarian Parliament Building.

Walk through the Baroque-style streets of Budapest's Castle District and cross over bridges to see the city from a different angle.

Pop into Matthias Church and don’t miss the 19th-century Fisherman's Bastion. Stop to admire the unique interior of the Ruszwurm, the oldest cafe in Budapest.

Other hot spots include Andrássy Avenue, the local Champs-Élysées and St. Stephen's Basilica. Taste traditional Hungarian foods like Gulash, a flavour-packed meat dish, and lángos, a deep-fried flatbread.

If you want to stay in the Hungarian capital for longer than one day, consider some of these Day Trips from Budapest.

 
 

3. Český Krumlov

Czechia’s Český Krumlov promises fairytale vibes and UNESCO-listed sites aplenty. The town’s eye-catching streets and scenic views make it a top day trip from Vienna.

Český Krumlov is situated in the South Bohemia region of the Czech Republic. Sandwiched against the Vltava River, the village is dominated by its striking 13th-century castle. Flaunting Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque elements, this is a site that’s worth seeing. Span the 11-hectare garden, step inside the 17th-century Baroque Theatre and scale up to the top of the bell tower.

The medieval Old Town boasts an intact architectural heritage, as the city escaped the bombings of World War II. The horseshoe-shaped river, Old Town and castle can all be seen easily in one day.

 
 

2. Salzburg

Looking for a day trip from Vienna in winter? Salzburg is at the top of the list. This Viennese village is as enchanting as it gets, and here’s why you should visit on a one-day getaway.

Reaching Salzburg from Vienna by train is practical and the total journey time is just over two hours. The train from Vienna to Salzburg is very scenic, and it’s a great way to see more of Austria’s Alpine landscape.

Spanning a distance of 200 km to Salzburg, you'll see spectacular views of lush forests, rolling rivers and snow-laced mountains. But, there are also plenty of day tours available too. If you don’t want to drive or catch public transport, an organised tour offers convenience.

There are many reasons why Salzburg is a great day trip from Vienna, but the historic buildings and Getriedegasse Street really set the bar high. The Salzach River runs right along the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that’ll leave you in awe.

Discover the birthplace of Mozart, spot famous locations from the classic musical ‘The Sound of Music’ and learn about the fascinating history. Swing by St Peter’s Church,

 
 

1. Hallstatt

Last but not least on the list, Hallstatt! This incredible destination is a traveller’s treasure trove; and for good reason.

Hallstatt is a picturesque village that’s tucked on Lake Hallstatt's western shore. The town is engulfed by Austria's mountainous Salzkammergut region, and it looks like it’s been ripped straight out of an adventure book.

The village’s 16th-century Alpine houses and alleyways are lined with cute cafes and local shops. There’s also a funicular railway that connects to an ancient salt mine called Salzwelten.

Hit the heights of the Skywalk Hallstatt viewing platform and admire the UNESCO-listed Salzkammergut. Get active on the trails to the Echern Valley glacier garden and see the Waldbachstrub Waterfall and glacial potholes.

During the colder months, I’d highly recommend visiting Hallstatt. A day trip from Vienna in winter provides the perfect opportunity to see the snow-capped peaks and magnificent alpine scenery in its full, whitewashed splendour.

Visiting Hallstatt during the autumn, spring and summer also promises vibrant colours and a different take on this destination. You can enjoy the serene lakes and breathtaking views of the Austrian Alps.

I’d highly recommend embarking on your day trip as early as possible so that you can make the most of your day. If you have enough time, add spots like Schloss Ort, Beinhaus and the Dachstein Giant Ice Cave to your list.

 
 

More Day Trips in Vienna, Austria

If those 24 day trip ideas don’t tickle your pickle, consider one of these top travel destinations:

  • Parndorf

  • Forchtenstein Castle

  • Schloss Esterhazy and Eisenstadt

  • Liechtenstein Castle

  • Schönbrunn Palace

  • Baden bei Wien

  • Klagenfurt am Wörthersee

  • Eisenstadt

  • Seegrotte

  • Linz

  • Semmering

  • Bad Ischl

  • Salzkammergut

 

Central Europe Itinerary: 3 Weeks

Now that you’ve got the rundown on the best day trips from Vienna, why not combine your Austria trip with a 3-week Europe itinerary?

Level up your vacation with classical music, awe-worthy art and enchanting scenery in Central Europe. From the Czech Republic’s Prague to the High Tatras, this 21-day itinerary will have you on the edge of your seat. Here’s a quick summary of how you could spend three weeks in Central Europe:

  • Day 1-2: Berlin, Germany

  • Day 3: Munich, Germany

  • Day 4-5: Prague, Czech Republic  

  • Day 6-7: Kraków, Poland

  • Day 8-9: Warsaw, Poland

  • Day 10-11: Bratislava, Slovakia

  • Day 12-14: High Tatras, Slovakia

  • Day 15-17: Budapest, Hungary

  • Day 18-21: Vienna, Austria

 
 

Best Time to Visit Vienna

Now that you’ve decided on a day trip from Vienna, Austria, it’s time to get into the planning process. There’s no wrong time to travel, but the best time to visit Vienna comes down to your personal preferences, style and travel budget. Here's what to expect if you plan your holidays in Vienna in each of the four seasons:

Spring

From April to May, Vienna’s weather is quite pleasant, and it’s a great time to visit if you want to see the gardens bloom and colourful landscapes. Cultural highlights during the spring include the Easter markets and outdoor concerts. If you want to enjoy cheaper accommodation and airfares, there are also fewer tourists compared to the summer season.

Summer

From June to August, you can expect warm weather and lots of outdoor festivals, concerts and events. July and August are the peak tourist season, so you’ll have to pay higher prices for flights, hotels and activities. If you want to go sightseeing, be sure to book your tickets online and in advance.

Autumn

From September to November, the weather is quite mild and there are many wine festivals, music events and festivities taking place. Planning a trip to Vienna at this time provides the perfect opportunity to see the spectacular fall foliage. Plus, you’ll enjoy more affordable prices for accommodation and airfares.

Winter

From December to February, you’ll be dealing with crisp weather and snowy conditions. The Christmas Markets, New Year's concerts and ice skating rinks are among the biggest highlights of visiting Vienna in winter. Innere Stadt is particularly magical and makes for the best place to stay in Vienna at Christmas.

 

Things to do in Vienna

Put together the perfect Vienna holiday with some of these top activities and attractions:

 

How to Get Around Vienna

There are a world of day trips from Vienna, Austria, and, there are also a million ways of getting around. So let’s quickly brush over transportation. Here are the most popular ways to get around Vienna:

Public Transport (Wiener Linien)

One of the quickest ways to get around Asutria’s capital is via the subway (U-Bahn). Vienna is home to five different subway lines (U1 to U4, U6) and all of them are linked to major attractions and other transportation.

Vienna has an extensive tram network that covers some neighbourhoods that the subway doesn’t reach. If you’re interested in combining sightseeing and history, some historical trams operate in the city too.

If you have one or two days in Vienna, opt for a 24-hour or 48-hour transport ticket. Another wallet-friendly option is the Vienna City Card, which boasts unlimited travel on public transport. Plus, there’s even a discount on some attractions. Score!

Walking

Vienna is a very walkable city and it’s easy to reach a lot of the top attractions in the city centre. Walking is great for the warmer months and there are a bunch of free walking tours available all around the city.

Car Rental

Renting a car in Vienna is ideal if you plan on exploring beyond the city centre. Visiting places like Salzburg, Melk Abbey, Klosterneuburg Abbey or the Schloss Hof House & Gardens is fairly straightforward with public transport, but a car will allow you more freedom to create your own schedule.

 

Where to Stay in Vienna

Hugging the Danube River, Vienna is arrayed with a number of attractions, and figuring out where to stay in Vienna can pose quite a challenge. The city is well laid out and most landmarks, museums and cultural gems are well-connected by subway and public transport.

Vienna is home to 23 districts and each of them serves its own culture, history and flair. Check out this in-depth guide on the Best Places to Stay in Vienna, Austria.

 

FAQs

Where should you go for a day trip from Vienna?

There are many places to go both in and around Austria, whether you’re interested in art, food, coffee or nature. The most popular Vienna day trips are to places like Hallstatt, Budapest, Salzburg and Prague.

Where should you go by train from Vienna?

Trains offer access to mountain villages, lakeside towns and plenty of hidden gems. The top day trips from Vienna, Austria, are the following:

  • Salzburg (under 3 hours)

  • Budapest (under 2.5 hours)

  • Bratislava (just over 1 hour)

What is the most beautiful train ride from Vienna?

The Austrian train route from Vienna to Graz is considered one of the most panoramic rides in Central Europe. Board the Semmering Line, one of the few train routes in the world that has its very own spot on the UNESCO World Heritage Site List. The total journey takes under 3 hours.

Can you do a day trip from Vienna to Hallstatt?

Yes, you can do a day trip to Hallstatt from Vienna. Sandwiched between the Dachstein Alps and the Hallstätter See (Lake Hallstatt), this mountain village offers plenty to explore on a one-day getaway. Just make sure you set out on your adventure early!

 

Why Should You Take a Day Trip from Vienna?

Tucked in eastern Austria, Vienna flaunts artistic flair and a rich musical background. From the gorgeous palaces and awe-worthy architecture to the luxurious opera houses and myriad museums, falling in love with the city is easy.

Before you jet-set off on your Austria trip, be sure to save these day trips from Vienna!

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