Embark on an unforgettable family adventure in Austria, where rich history, natural wonders, and exciting experiences await. Begin your journey in the vibrant heart of Vienna. Explore the city center and marvel at a performance by the renowned Spanish Riding School, showcasing the art of classical horsemanship for over 400 years. Delve into the imperial past at the majestic Hofburg Palace, the former principal residence of the Habsburg dynasty. Don’t miss the Haus des Meeres, an underwater wonderland that promises to captivate both young and old.
Popular itinerary for a family trip to Austria:
From Vienna, your adventure continues with visits to Erlebniswelt Holzknechtland and the magnificent Marienwasserfall waterfall. Ascend to breathtaking heights and explore the awe-inspiring giant ice cave, Dachstein Giant Ice Cave, a subterranean marvel of frozen beauty. Discover the secrets of underground salt mining at Salzwelten, and soak in panoramic views of the city and the Alps from the towering Hohensalzburg Fortress.
Explore the historic towns of Melk, a charming town dominated by a magnificent Benedictine abbey, and Dürnstein, a picturesque town nestled in the Wachau Valley. Conclude your trip back in Vienna with a visit to Wiener Prater amusement park, where attractions for all ages await, including the iconic Riesenrad Ferris wheel, a giant Ferris wheel offering stunning views of the city. Wrap up your journey with an evening at Naschmarkt, a bustling market offering a sensory feast of local flavors and culinary delights from around the world.
On this family journey through Austria, history, nature, and adventures converge to create experiences that will be cherished for a long time. This proposed 7-day itinerary covers approximately 560 miles, with some routes and sites closed during the winter season.
Day 1: Vienna
The journey begins with a leisurely exploration of Vienna’s city center. Stroll along Universitaring, a picturesque boulevard that forms part of the iconic Ring Road encircling Vienna’s historic center. Lined with illustrious landmarks like the University of Vienna, museums, and cultural institutions, Universitaring is home to magnificent buildings spanning architectural styles from Renaissance to Baroque, offering a glimpse into Vienna’s rich historical and artistic heritage.
The Rathaus, Vienna’s City Hall, is an architectural masterpiece. Further along the boulevard, you’ll see the Austrian Parliament Building, constructed in the classical Greek style. This is the seat of the National Council and the Federal Council. The boulevard curves around the Museum Quarter near Maria Theresien Square, which features a statue of Empress Maria Theresa of the illustrious Habsburg dynasty.
On the other side of the boulevard, you’ll pass through the Äußeres Burgtor gate leading to the Hofburg Imperial Palace complex. This former imperial residence includes several attractions within its extensive grounds. The Sisi Museum displays the treasures and writings of Empress Elisabeth, affectionately known as Sisi, and the Imperial Treasury Museum showcases the opulent treasures of the Habsburg dynasty, including royal artifacts, crowns, jewelry, and historical treasures telling the story of imperial grandeur.
Attend a performance at the Spanish Riding School (Spanische Hofreitschule) and then explore Kohlmarkt, a street lined with luxury shops and café, including the iconic Demel coffeehouse, renowned for its exquisite pastries and coffee traditions dating back to the late 18th century. Next, proceed to the expansive Graben Street, where the ornate Plague Column (Wiener Pestsäule) stands tall, and continue to St. Stephen’s Cathedral, a timeless landmark that has dominated Vienna’s skyline for centuries. Explore the cathedral precinct, bustling with an array of shops, shopping centers, cozy cafes, and inviting eateries.
After lunch, head to Haus des Meeres, a one-of-a-kind aquarium boasting an extensive collection of marine life, highlighted by its impressive cylindrical tank. In addition to marine displays, the aquarium houses captivating reptiles and insects. The Amazon Rainforest House offers insight into the ecosystems of the Amazon region. Enjoy the outdoor terraces and a café/bar on the top floor, offering panoramic views of Vienna.
Spend the night in Vienna.
Day 2: From Vienna to Mariazell
Head along Highways 59E and 23 for about 100 miles until you reach the town of Mariazell. Stop at the Bürgeralpe Express cable car station to ascend to Erlebniswelt Holzknechtland, a family amusement park centered around the theme of lumberjacks. The park features demonstrations, a small train, a lake with water attractions, and stunning views. After the visit, descend to the charming town and explore the historic streets of its old quarter.
Spend the night in Mariazell.
Day 3: From Mariazell to Obertraun
Depart from Mariazell in the morning, following Highway 71 for approximately 5 miles to reach the Marienwasserfall waterfalls. A brief walk from the parking area leads you to the falls, where you’ll experience the curtain waterfall adorned with a statue of Mary gracefully perched on one of its ledges, with a veil of water gently flowing over her.
After returning to your car, proceed along Highways 24, 117, and 145, covering approximately 105 miles, until you reach the charming town of Obertraun. From there, take a cable car to visit the renowned Dachstein Giant Ice Cave. This karst cave, formed within the Dachstein Glacier, reveals a mesmerizing world of ice formations, with spectacular stalactites and stalagmites. Guided tours lead visitors through its caverns, illuminated to highlight the magical atmosphere. Prepare for a truly unique adventure, with panoramic vistas and additional wonders like the Dachstein Skywalk. Please note that advance booking for the guided cave tours is recommended. If time allows, continue to the breathtaking viewpoint known as 5 Fingers.
Spend the night in Obertraun.
Day 4: From Obertraun to Salzburg
Begin your day by traveling approximately 43 miles on Highways 166, 162, and 10A to reach the Salzwelten Salzburg salt mines. This renowned attraction offers guided tours, allowing you to explore underground chambers, slide down miners’ slides, take a train ride, and even enjoy a boat trip on a salt lake.
Next, continue your journey by driving about 12 miles to the historic city of Salzburg.
Salzburg, once a powerful ecclesiastical city-state during the Holy Roman Empire, retains the legacy of its illustrious past. Its skyline is dotted with spires and domes, its winding alleys are narrow, and its markets are diverse. In January 1756, the famous composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was born here, and the city’s atmosphere undoubtedly influenced his early musical works.
Explore Salzburg Cathedral, boasting an interior adorned with lavish Baroque and Rococo elements, and don’t miss the DomQuartier Museum, a must-see for Baroque enthusiasts. The museum showcases exquisite examples of Baroque adornments, such as ornate furniture and chandeliers, offering an intriguing glimpse into Salzburg’s decorative arts from the 17th and 18th centuries. Conclude your day in the charming Old Town, where you can savor the diverse culinary offerings of its numerous restaurants and cafes.
Spend the night in Salzburg.
Day 5: From Salzburg to Linz
Begin your morning with a visit to Hohensalzburg Castle, an ancient stronghold that has stood for nearly 1,000 years atop a hill, overlooking the city. Throughout the centuries, the castle has undergone expansions, with its walls thickened and fortified to ensure the complete protection of its occupants. Today, it houses a museum dedicated to the archbishops and offers breathtaking panoramas of the city and the Alps. You can ascend to the castle either on foot or via a scenic funicular ride.
After visiting the castle, take Highway 1A for about 80 miles to Linz. Linz, the third-largest city in Austria, is primarily an industrial city, but it has a unique Old Town. The Old Town is centered around a main street, 1 mile in length, stretching from Nibelungen Bridge to the theater near the train station. Near the bridge is the impressive main square, and the Altes Rathaus (Old Town Hall) and the Trinity Column, a 65-foot high white marble column designed in the Baroque style in 1716 in gratitude for the city being spared from the Great Plague. Santa Maria Immaculata is perched at the top of the monument.
Take a moment to observe the 19 bells on the Feichtinger-Haus, which play pieces by Austrian composers. Each musical piece lasts 4 minutes and is played three times a day. From there, walk to the 17th century old cathedral, built in Baroque style. In the evening, visit Landstrasse Street, an attraction for shopping enthusiasts with its three malls and numerous brand stores.
Spend the night in Linz.
Day 6: Linz to Melk, Dürnstein, and back to Vienna
Upon arrival, park at the Melk Abbey monastery, a Benedictine monastery founded in 1089 by Leopold II, Margrave of Austria, evolving into one of the most important cultural and educational centers in the region. The impressive Baroque-style building overlooks the Danube River from the hilltop. Entry is permitted only through guided tours, which include the monastery’s treasures, impressive chambers adorned with wall and ceiling paintings, and the ancient library containing over 90,000 volumes, many dating back to the Middle Ages. During the 18th and 19th centuries, the monastery played a significant role in Austria’s cultural and intellectual life, with prominent figures such as Goethe, Mozart, and Hayden visiting or staying there. Today, the monastery is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is open to visitors year-round.
After visiting the monastery, stroll down to the charming town, bustling with shops, cafes, and restaurants.
Continue your day with a drive through the Wachau Valley. After an 18- mile drive on Highway 3 along the northern side of the Danube River, you’ll reach the town of Dürnstein. This picturesque town, nestled along the banks of the Danube, is primarily known for its fortified castle where Richard the Lionheart, the English king, was imprisoned during the late 12th century. The castle and its magnificent views are accessible only by foot.
Explore the charming Old Town of Dürnstein, characterized by its picturesque streets lined with vibrant, flower-adorned houses. Wander along the bustling shopping street, where you’ll discover an array of quaint shops, local cafes, and wine taverns offering the renowned wines of the region, especially Grüner Veltliner and Riesling. Known for its culinary delights, Dürnstein boasts orchards brimming with produce in the Wachau Valley. Here, you can savor an assortment of fruit delicacies, from fresh offerings to delectable jams and liqueurs.
Following your visit to Dürnstein, make your way back to Vienna via Highways 5S and 22A, covering approximately 50 miles.
Spend the night in Vienna.
Day 7: Vienna – Wiener Prater
Begin the final day of your trip by exploring Vienna’s iconic amusement park, Wiener Prater. This sprawling park is renowned for its historic Ferris wheel, which dates back to 1897 and provides panoramic views of the city skyline. With an array of attractions, including roller coasters, bumper cars, and carousels, Wiener Prater offers excitement for visitors of all ages. Take a leisurely stroll along the tree-lined Prater Hauptallee. Inside the park, Madame Tussauds Vienna features lifelike wax figures of famous personalities. With its rich history and diverse entertainment options, Wiener Prater is a popular destination, blending fun, history, and natural beauty.
Conclude your day with a visit to the vibrant Naschmarkt, located in the heart of the city. This open-air market, offering a multicultural experience, has been a culinary and cultural hub for over a century. Stretching along the Wienzeile, the market brims with fresh produce, international delicacies, and unique art and antiques.
End the day, indulge in the culinary delights offered at one of the many authentic restaurants in the market.
