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15 Best Day Trips from Vienna, Austria
It’s easy to get caught up in the fancy palaces and coffee house cakes of Vienna. I certainly did. But you should also know that there are many great options for day trips from Vienna.
The city is a great base for exploring nearby countryside scenery and centuries-old villages and cities.
I’ll be up front with you. I haven’t done all of these Vienna day trips. I asked travel experts to share the best options based on their personal experiences.
To help you decide which ones are right for you, here’s a list of the top day trips from Vienna based on their recommendations (and mine). It includes tips on things to do in each place and how to get there.
You may also like:
6 Terrific Ways to See the Lipizzaner Stallions of Vienna in Real Life and
Vienna Christmas Markets – Top Tips for Your Visit
Day trips within about one hour from Vienna
Melk Abbey, Austria
By Haley of Haley Blackall Travel
Melk Abbey, Austria
Nestled in the heart of Lower Austria, the charming town of Melk is a must-visit day trip from Vienna, especially for its crown jewel: Melk Abbey. A baroque masterpiece perched atop a rocky outcrop, overlooking the Danube River, the abbey is not just a feast for the eyes.
The library within Melk Abbey is an invaluable home of ancient manuscripts, a significant draw for those interested in historical texts.
If you’re a design lover, don’t miss the architecturally significant Marble Hall, adorned in Rococo style and the Abbey Church with its stunning frescoes and high altar. For panoramic views, soak in the sights from the abbey’s terrace.
Beyond the abbey, the town of Melk is worth a wander. Its cobblestone streets, especially around Rathausplatz, the main square, lead to local cafes and shops that offer a genuine taste of Lower Austrian culture.
And, if you’re up for some scenic views, take a boat ride along the Danube.
To go from Vienna to Melk:
Train: Hop on a direct train from Vienna’s Hauptbahnhof (main station), an 8-minute taxi (or 15-minute subway) from the best area to stay in Vienna, Innere Stadt. The train ride takes about an hour.
Tour: Wachau, Melk Abbey, and Danube Valleys Tour (includes romantic boat trip on the Danube in summer)
Wachau Valley, Austria
By Kamila Napora of Kami and the Rest of the World
The Wachau Valley, Austria
Wachau Valley is one of the most beautiful places in Austria.
This picturesque area along the Danube River is only 90 km west of Vienna, between Krems and Melk. It’s famous for its stunning landscapes, vineyards, and apricot orchards scattered along the riverside, charming medieval towns, and interesting historical sites.
When you visit, you’ll be able to enjoy a diversity of attractions as well as the laid-back vibe of the place.
To admire the most beautiful views of the Wachau Valley, go on the boat tour on the Danube – there are scheduled departures that can take you from one town to another. This place is so special that in 2000, the “Wachau Cultural Landscape” became a UNESCO World Heritage Site.as another proof of what a valuable place this is.
To go from Vienna to the Wachau Valley:
Tip: The easiest way to visit Wachau Valley from Vienna is by car or with a tour, so you can see most of the attractions.
Train: You can take the direct train from the Franz-Josefs-Bahnhof in Vienna to Krems (the journey takes around one hour) and then explore the region by bike/boat/train/bus. Then you can return by train from Melk directly to Vienna.
Tour: Wachau, Melk Abbey, and Danube Valleys Tour (includes romantic boat trip on the Danube in summer)
Bratislava, Slovakia
By Roxanne de Bruyn of Faraway Worlds
Bratislava, Slovakia
Just an hour away from Vienna, you’ll find Bratislava, the capital city of Slovakia. A relatively small city, Bratislava makes a delightful contrast to Vienna with a relaxed and charming Old Town. It’s easy to explore on a day trip from Vienna to Bratislava.
Spend your time wandering through the narrow lanes of the Old Town, lined with historical buildings. You’ll see quirky statues and interesting street art as you make your way around the city. Visit Bratislava Castle for panoramic views of the city and the Danube River, and stop at the beautiful Blue Church to admire its architecture (and colour).
For lunch, try some traditional Slovak cuisine – bryndzové halušky (potato dumplings with cheese and bacon) is a favourite and Slovakia’s national dish.
If you have more time, venture beyond the old town to see contemporary art at Nedbalka Gallery and honour the past at the Slavín Memorial.
To go from Vienna to Bratislava:
Train: Traveling between Vienna and Bratislava is easy, with regular train routes available. Get train tickets from Vienna to Bratislava.
Tour: From Vienna: Bratislava City Tour (includes coffee and cake)
Vienna Woods
Hinterbrühl lake grotto in the Vienna Woods
Looking for a nature getaway from Vienna? You don’t have to go far.
The Vienna Woods (Wienerwald) is large forested area near Vienna. It’s perfect for hiking or cycling, strolling through picturesque towns and having a sip or two in the vineyards. It’s a designated UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and even inspired a waltz by Johann Strauss.
Highlights include the Heiligenkreuz Abbey — Europe’s largest Cistercian abbey. This 900-year-old monastery is famous for its Gregorian Chant which once led the Billboard charts in the U.S.
The Hinterbrühl lake grotto is another must-see as part of a day tour from Vienna. It’s the largest underground lake in Europe, discovered during a mining operation. During World War II, the water was pumped out so it could serve as an underground aircraft factory. Now, you can glide through the grotto on a boat. Be sure to take warm clothes if you go.
To go from Vienna to the Vienna Woods:
Tip: The best way to explore the Vienna Woods is by car or on a tour.
Gyor, Hungary
By Richard Meek of RJOnTour
Gyor, Hungary
Gyor is a lovely city which is where 4 rivers meet, including the River Danube. The city has a beautiful historic centre with some interesting things to see. Gyor’s history dates back to the 1th century when the Romans occupied the area – – you can learn more in the museums of Gyor.
There is a lot of baroque architecture throughout the old town area. This includes some pleasant churches and a castle. As you step off the train, you’ll see the splendid baroque town hall.
If you visit during the summer, don’t miss the thermal pool and water park. .
Walks along the river are lovely. There are some restaurants on the banks, including a floating restaurant. For a fantastic view of the city and nearby countryside, the Bishops Tower is wonderful. Overall, there are lots of things to do in Gyor, a beautiful city with a laid-back vibe.
To go from Vienna to Gyor:
Train: There’s a direct train from Vienna’s main station (HBF) to Gyor that takes just over an hour. Get train tickets here.
Schloss Esterhazy and Eisenstadt, Austria
By Paul D’Souza of Paulmarina
Haydn Hall in the Esterhazy Palace
The Esterhazy Palace in Eisenstadt is one of the most dazzling palaces and a must-see for all culture lovers. Rich baroque interiors with intricate frescoes and stucco work make every room worthwhile a visit.
The Haydn Hall, named after the legendary composer, Joseph Haydn, who was the Kapellmeister of the Esterhazy family, is a dazzling marvel and the acoustics have been perfected. Special tickets to musical events, that take place in the Haydn hall in the Esterhazy palace, are highly sought after.
The Haydn house, wine cellars and gardens are the highlight of a visit to the grand palace. On a trip, you’ll notice that the palace dominates the area as it sits right in the center of Eisenstadt, which is a small city of the Burgenland region.
To go from Vienna to Eisenstadt:
Car: It takes an hour to get to Eisenstadt by car. There’s parking on the palace premises, priced at €5 for 4 hours.
Train: From Vienna, take a 70-minute-long regional train ride to Eisenstadt.
Vienna day trips within one to three hours away
Devin Castle, Slovakia
By Alice Jasper Smith from Adventures of Alice
Devin Castle, Slovakia
Devin Castle is a fantastic day trip from Vienna, especially if you love history.
This crumbling castle in Slovakia is a pretty well-preserved medieval fortress perched on a hill overlooking the place where the Danube and Morava rivers meet. The views are gorgeous and you can easily spend a whole day exploring the grounds.
Once you’re at the castle, you can climb the turrets, step down into the cellars, and explore the old courtyards. The castle ruins are spread over a large area. You can explore the remnants of medieval walls, towers, and fortifications. The views of the surrounding landscape from the castle are stunning and there is also a small museum containing archaeological finds from the castle.
Don’t forget to climb the Maiden Tower for panoramic views of the Danube River and the Austrian and Slovakian landscapes.
To go from Vienna to Devin Castle:
Tip: To get to Devin Castle from Vienna, you can either take the train to Bratislava, which will take about an hour and then get a taxi to Devin, which will take an additional 20 minutes. A taxi straight from Vienna will take an hour, but it’s expensive.
Brno, Czech Republic
By Maria & Katerina of It’s All Trip To Me
Brno, Czech Republic
The second-largest city in the Czech Republic, Brno is an authentic, fascinating city with plenty to offer to those who decide to visit it on a day trip from Vienna.
Without a doubt, the best place to start your day trip in Brno is the Old Town, where you can explore the city’s diverse architecture with Functionalist, Art Nouveau and Baroque buildings creating a unique urban landscape.
Apart from what lies on the surface though, Brno hides a separate city in its depths, the so-called Brno Underground. Some of the best places to appreciate the magic of Brno Underground are the Brno Ossuary, the second-largest in Europe, and 10-Z Bunker, a WW2 air-raid shelter turned into a fascinating museum.
Before heading back to Vienna, make sure you sample the excellent South Moravian wine at one of Brno’s cozy wine bars.
To go from Vienna to Brno:
Train: Brno is very easy to get to by train from Vienna, as the city is a stop on the railway line that connects Vienna to Prague. The train ride from Vienna to Brno lasts one hour and a half. Get train tickets here.
Salzburg, Austria
Salzburg, Austria
If you watch the Sound of Music every year like I do, you’ll definitely want to take a day trip from Vienna to Salzburg.
On a day tour to Salzburg, you’ll visit the movie locations and get the behind-the-scenes stories. There are also stops in the stunning Austrian Lakes region and the cute mountain village of St. Gilgen.
Of course, there’s more to Salzburg than a movie. This is where Mozart is from. You can visit his birthplace and the cathedral where he played for church services. Be sure to try some Mozartkugel, otherwise known as “Mozart balls” (really!). They are tasty chocolates, filled with marzipan and pistachio.
To go from Vienna to Salzburg:
Train: The fast train from Vienna to Salzburg takes 2 hours 30 minutes. Get train tickets here.
Tour: Salzburg and the lakes region from Vienna (includes Vienna Woods and Melk Abbey). A tour is the best way to see Salzburg and the lakes region.
Graz, Austria
By Lavina D’Souza of Continent Hop
Graz, Austria
Graz is a beautiful mix of both the modern and traditional. It boasts historic courtyards, beautiful red rooftops and a large variety of pubs, restaurants, and great nightlife.
The Old Town of Graz is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most beautiful cities in Austria. Like the rest of Austria, Graz has beautiful Christmas markets. Consider an Austria itinerary 5 days to explore this charming country.
Take the Schlossberg cable car to see Graz’s most famous view. You can also explore the colourful and unique buildings, especially around th Hauptplatz, the town square. Be sure to try delicious Austrian meals from various food trucks.
Murinsel is an interesting combination of an island and a bridge and has a cafe in the middle of it. Observe the beautiful street art and visit the local bars for a drink or two to enjoy the hip culture here.
To go from Vienna to Graz:
Train: Graz is around two and a half hours from Vienna by train. Get train tickets from Vienna to Graz.
Tip: You can fly from Vienna to Graz in 35 minutes. Take a cab or the bus to the town centre, which is around 9 kilometres away.
Budapest. Hungary
By Tina from Veganderlust
Hungary’s Parliament in Budapest
Budapest is a fantastic day trip from Vienna. The two capital cities have a lot in common, including their history in the Austrian-Hungarian Empire, stunning architecture, and a love for the traditional Hungarian dish, goulash.
The most famous attraction in Budapest is the Hungarian Parliament Building, one of the most beautiful in the world.
Also, don’t miss out on having a drink in one of the ruin bars while you’re there. These trendy pubs were built in half-abandoned buildings, and are popular among both locals and tourists.
From breathtaking architecture to hip bars and delicious food, Budapest has it all. So, pack your day bag and set off for an unforgettable journey because, without a doubt, Budapest is worth a visit.
To go from Vienna to Budapest
Train: You can reach Budapest from Vienna by train in 2.5 hours one way. Get train tickets here.
Day trips from Vienna over 3 hours away
Hallstatt, Austria
By Andreea Ioana of Andoreia Travels the World
Hallstatt, Austria
Nestled in the Austrian Alps, the tiny lakeside town of Hallstatt is famous for its beautiful scenery and picturesque wooden houses. As it’s located around 3 hours away from Austria’s capital city, many tourists choose to visit Hallstatt from Vienna as a day trip.
Upon arriving, walking around the town is a must since every turn you take you’ll encounter a new, lovely view. Make sure you don’t miss the postcard viewpoint which is marked Aussichtspunkt Hallstatt on Google Maps.
For those interested in history, the Hallstatt salt mine, which is one of the oldest in the world, provides a glimpse into the town’s past, as its wealth was once built upon its salt production. It can be easily reached by using the funicular.
Lastly, the Hallstatt Skywalk (located right next to the mine) offers a panoramic view from above of the town and its surroundings, making it the perfect spot for taking photos.
To go from Vienna to Hallstatt:
Tip: To visit Hallstatt from Vienna you’ll either need to rent a car or take a train. If you opt for public transportation, know that you’ll arrive on the other side of the lake, so you’ll need to take the ferry or a local bus to Hallstatt.
Train: Get train tickets from Vienna to Hallstatt (3 hours).
Tour: Vienna to Hallstatt & Alpine Peaks Day Trip with Skywalk Lift
Český Krumlov, Czech Republic
By David Angel of Delve into Europe
Český Krumlov, Czech Republic
Český Krumlov is one of the most beautiful small towns in Europe. It’s a gorgeous little country town on the river Vltava, beneath a mighty Bohemian Castle.
The narrow cobbled streets are lined with medieval, Renaissance and Baroque townhouses, almost like a time capsule. It’s always been on the edge of major events in history, which is why it’s so perfectly preserved. It’s also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The two main things to do are exploring the Old Town and walking up to the Castle. You can walk all the way through the castle precincts for free – you only need to pay to join one of the mandatory guided tours of the rooms inside, or the unique Baroque Theatre.
There are enough things to do in Cesky Krumlov to keep you there for two or three days, but with limited time I’d urge you to seek out the Museum Fotoatelier Seidel. It’s the home and studio of the town’s main photographer in the early 20th century, and like the rest of the town, exquisitely preserved.
To go from Vienna to Český Krumlov:
Tip: It’s faster to take a tour or to drive the 128-miles (206 km) from Vienna to Český Krumlov (about 2.5 hours).
Train: You can get there by train, with a change at Linz or Ceske Budejovice. From either of these, you can then change for another train or bus. Count on up to 4 hours, sometimes more, each way if traveling by public transport.
Prague, Czech Republic
By Mal of Raw Mal Roams
Old Town Square in Prague, Czech Republic
While seeing everything Prague has to offer in one day is impossible, you can still get a good taste of its captivating atmosphere and experience some of its most iconic attractions.
Begin your day with a visit to Prague’s Castle, located on the western bank of the Vltava River and home to the 14th-century Gothic masterpiece – St. Vitus Cathedral.
Next stroll across the iconic Charles Bridge, then explore the historic Old Town Square. There, you can climb the City Hall tower for panoramic views and watch the famous Astronomical Clock show.
Make sure to sample Czech specialties like chimney cake and fried cheese. For a breathtaking city scape, head to Hotel U Prince’s rooftop terrace for a drink and a fantastic photo op.
There are many fantastic boutique hotels in Prague, such as The Julius Prague, if you choose to stay overnight.
To go from Vienna to Prague:
Train: Take a direct train from Vienna’s Hauptbahnhof (central train station) to Prague’s main station, Wilsonova. The journey typically takes around 4 to 5 hours, and there are multiple connections per day. Get train tickets here.
Ljubljana, Slovenia
By Cosette from KarsTravels.
Ljubljana, Slovenia
Ljubljana is the beautiful capital of Slovenia, in the western part of the country. The city is easy to explore on foot during an afternoon in Ljubljana, as part of a day trip from Vienna.
Walking around Ljubljana is a feast for the eyes, with its colourful facades from the Jugendstil, Baroque and Classical periods. Outside the city centre, the buildings are from the Communist period and less colourful. Not to be missed on a tour through the city is Tromostovje, a triple bridge, that’s beautifully adorned.
A highlight of the city is Ljubljanski Grad. The large castle, dating from the Middle Ages, towers above the city. The castle is reachable by car, by furnicular and on foot. The furnicular is a glass cogwheel that goes up from the city centre to the castle. During the ride you’ll have splendid views of Ljubljana. The castle houses the Slovenian Archeological Museum, a virtual castle, 2 restaurants and a tower that you can climb.
To go from Vienna to Ljubljana
By car: By car it’s about 4 hours (384 Kilometers) on the E59/A2 and E57, both are toll roads.
Train: You can either take a direct train early in the morning or with a transfer in Villach, both ways taking about 6 hours. Get train tickets to Ljubljana here.
Best Vienna day trips by map:
There you have it! I hope these recommendations help you choose the Vienna day trip that’s right for you.
More information:
Tourism Information: Vienna Tourist Board
Car rental: Compare prices at Auto Europe
Where to Stay in Vienna: Get the best deals on hotels in Vienna here.
Suggested reading: Rick Steves Pocket Vienna, Rick Steves Central Europe
Avoid data roaming fees: I use an aloSIM eSIM (a digital SIM card) to stay connected when I travel. Get 5% off your first order with the promo code: TRAVELBLISSNOW.
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