Great Austria Itineraries: How Many Days to Spend?

When planning your Austria trip, it’s essential to consider how much time you have to explore this beautiful country. For the ultimate experience, a 10-day journey allows you to discover major cities as well as visit charming spots like Innsbruck and Graz. You can also explore Austria’s urban attractions and the stunning Alpine landscapes, including a mix of cultural and outdoor adventures. If you have a week, you can follow itineraries that combine city sightseeing with day trips to scenic destinations such as the ancient salt mines of Hallstatt or the picturesque Wachau Valley. For trips shorter than a week, focus on highlights in Vienna and Salzburg, learning about their rich history and vibrant culture. Austria’s tourist season runs from May through September, but each season has its unique charm, offering varied experiences year-round to craft exciting Austria travel itineraries.

Still not sure how many days you should spend in Austria? Check our suggestions below to inspire your next holiday.

A 5-day Austria itinerary allows you to experience the country's highlights, focusing on its most captivating cities and scenic landscapes. Start your journey in Vienna, dedicating two full days to explore this magnificent capital. Immerse yourself in the city's rich history by visiting Schönbrunn Palace and St. Stephen's Cathedral. Don't miss the chance to indulge in Vienna's renowned cafe culture and savor a traditional Wiener Schnitzel. Next, head to Salzburg, Mozart's birthplace, for two days. Explore the charming old town, visit Mozart's Birthplace Museum, and take in the stunning views from Hohensalzburg Fortress. Use Salzburg as your base to venture into the surrounding areas. Consider a day trip to Hallstatt, a picturesque village nestled between glistening lakes and snow-capped mountains. This Unesco World Heritage Site offers breathtaking scenery and a glimpse into Austria's Alpine beauty.

Alternatively, if you have ticked off a trip to Vienna or Salzburg or are more interested in Austria's southern charm, begin your adventure in Graz, Austria's second-largest city. Graz is an appealing destination for a more unique and relaxed Austrian getaway. Spend two days discovering its Renaissance Old Town and the futuristic Kunsthaus Graz. Then, retreat to Zell am See for two days surrounded by nature, enjoying hikes or boat trips on Lake Zell, with the option to take in alpine views from the Schmittenhöhe peak. On your final day, visit the breathtaking Melk Abbey, a stunning Baroque masterpiece overlooking the Danube River.

For more ideas and information, explore our guide on how to spend 5 days in Austria. Take a look at our selection of 5-day Austria tours for more options.

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A 7-day Austria itinerary offers a deeper dive into the country’s culture and landscapes beyond the must-see cities of Vienna and Salzburg. Explore Vienna’s historic grandeur and savor the charm of Salzburg, including a visit to Hallstatt, then continue your trip to Innsbruck. With its medieval Old Town and the iconic Golden Roof, Innsbruck provides a perfect blend of history and breathtaking mountain views. Don’t miss the Imperial Palace and a cable car ride up to Nordkette, where the panoramic vistas of the surrounding Alps will leave you in awe. For a mix of nature and culture, head to the Wachau Valley, a Unesco World Heritage Site known for its picturesque vineyards and the magnificent Melk Abbey. Next, visit Zillertal Valley to enjoy its alpine beauty, whether through scenic hikes, a steam train ride, or a leisurely day surrounded by stunning mountain views.

For a more adventurous take on a one week trip to Austria, delve into its natural beauty with a hiking expedition along the Inn Valley High Trail. Start by riding the Patscherkofelbahn cable car to panoramic ridges, offering spectacular Alpine views. As you continue along the Central Alpine Trail, you'll pass the historical Soldatenkirche and the peaceful Weerbach River. The journey features pristine alpine landscapes, with the option to scale Kuhmesser peak for breathtaking vistas over Innsbruck and the Zillertal Valley. Conclude your adventure at Kellerjoch Summit Chapel, where sweeping views of the Karwendel range provide a perfect finale before returning to Innsbruck for a relaxing end to your trip.

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To truly explore Austria, 10 days is the perfect duration, which allows you ample time to immerse yourself in the country's major cities and breathtaking landscapes at a leisurely pace.

Start in Vienna, soaking in its rich history and architectural wonders, then drive to the charming village of Dürnstein along the Danube, known for its vineyards and medieval castle ruins. This village is also famous for its connection to Richard the Lionheart, who was imprisoned in the castle. Continue to the enchanting Salzkammergut region to explore lakes like Wolfgangsee and Attersee, where you can enjoy various water sports and the stunning mountain backdrop. Include the stunning Grossglockner High Alpine Road, offering breathtaking views of Austria’s highest peak, in your Austria itinerary for 10 days. Spend the last days in Innsbruck, where you can hike the surrounding mountains or visit the iconic Golden Roof adorned with over 2,600 gilded copper tiles.

Adventure junkies who are looking for thrilling Austria itineraries might want to opt for a trek through the country’s stunning Ten Lakes. Starting in Fuschl, hike to picturesque lakes like Filbilingsee, enjoying views of the 13th-century Wartenfels Castle ruins and the sweeping vistas of Mondsee and Irrsee lakes. The area is known for its delicious local cuisine, including fresh fish and seasonal fruits. Explore the beautiful alpine pastures around Lake Schwarzensee, where local folklore speaks of mythical creatures inhabiting the waters. Continue along the scenic River Ischl before arriving in Bad Aussee, renowned for its spa culture, which has attracted visitors for centuries seeking relaxation and healing. In Hallstatt, visit ancient salt mines and enjoy a serene boat ride on Lake Hallstätter See, a Unesco World Heritage Site that beautifully blends natural beauty and cultural exploration.

For additional travel tips and suggestions, take a look at our guide on spending 10 days in Austria. Get inspired by our list of 10-day Austria tours.

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From the grandeur of Vienna and the musical legacy of Salzburg to the breathtaking beauty of Hallstatt and the charming villages in between, Austria's diverse offerings make it a captivating destination for every traveler. If you're unsure about how long to stay in Austria or need help refining your Austria itineraries, our travel specialists are here to help. You can also request a customized tour to Austria tailored to your needs. For a hassle-free experience, explore our carefully designed Austria group tours to ensure you don’t miss out on the best of this stunning country.

More information:
Best time to visit Austria
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2-week Austria Tours