Best day trips from Vienna

Vienna, the capital of Austria, is a city full of charm and culture. However, sometimes you just need to escape the hustle and bustle of the city for a day or two. Lucky for you, Vienna is surrounded by charming towns and stunning scenery that make perfect day trip destinations! From medieval castles to picturesque wine regions, we’ve rounded up the best day trips from Vienna that are sure to leave you feeling refreshed and inspired. So pack your bags and get ready to explore some hidden gems just outside of this vibrant city!

Best day trips from Vienna was originally published on allaboutvienna.com

What to pack for a day trip

Assuming you’re starting in Vienna, there are a few things you should pack for a day trip. First, if you’re going by car, make sure you have a map of the area. If you’re taking public transportation, be sure to have your ticket and/or pass. Second, pack snacks and drinks for the day. Third, depending on the time of year and weather, pack appropriate clothing. Fourth, if you’re going hiking or doing any other physical activity, be sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring sunscreen. Finally, don’t forget your camera to take pictures of your adventures!

How to get around on public transportation

There are a few different ways to get around on public transportation in Vienna. The first way is by using the city’s extensive underground metro system. The second way is by taking advantage of the many trams and buses that crisscross the city. And finally, you can also rent bicycles from a number of different locations around town.

The best way to get around Vienna is by using its excellent public transportation system. The underground metro system is reliable and efficient, and it will take you just about anywhere you need to go in the city. If you’re looking for a more scenic way to get around, you can take advantage of the many trams and buses that crisscross the city. And finally, if you’re feeling adventurous, you can always rent a bicycle and explore Vienna on two wheels!

Wienerwald

The Wienerwald, or “Vienna Woods,” is one of the best day trips from Vienna. This nature preserve is a great place to hike, bike, or just enjoy the outdoors. There are plenty of trails to explore, and you can even go for a swim in one of the many lakes. Be sure to bring your camera, as Wienerwald is home to some beautiful scenery.

If you’re looking for something more adventurous, check out Wienerwald Adventure Park. Here, visitors can try out activities like zip-lining and rock climbing. While it’s a great place to spend the day, be sure to bring some snacks as there are limited restaurants here.

No matter what you decide to do in the Wienerwald, one thing’s for sure – you won’t be disappointed! Make sure to take advantage of all the amazing sights and sounds this nature preserve has to offer.

Baden bei Wien

Baden bei Wien is a beautiful town located just outside of Vienna. There are numerous things to do in Baden, including visiting the famous spa, taking a stroll through the picturesque old town, or enjoying the many restaurants and cafes.

The Baden spa is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the town. The spa is situated in a stunning location overlooking the river and has been used by royalty and celebrities for centuries. Today, anyone can enjoy the spa’s facilities, which include an outdoor pool, saunas, and massage treatments.

Baden’s old town is full of charm and character. The cobbled streets and historic buildings create a unique atmosphere that is perfect for a leisurely stroll. There are also plenty of shops and cafes to explore as you wander through the old town.

If you’re looking for somewhere to eat in Baden, there are plenty of options to choose from. There are traditional Austrian restaurants serving up hearty meals, as well as more modern eateries offering lighter fare. There are also many cafes where you can enjoy a coffee or cake while people watch.

Bratislava

Situated on the River Danube and only an hour away from Vienna by train, Bratislava is the perfect day trip destination. This charming city is packed with historic sights, great restaurants, and lively bars.

Start your day by exploring Bratislava Castle, which dates back to the 9th century. Then, stroll through the picturesque old town, stopping to admire landmarks like St. Martin’s Cathedral and Michael’s Gate. In the afternoon, head to one of Bratislava’s many museums or take a leisurely walk along the riverfront.

As night falls, enjoy a meal at a traditional Slovakian restaurant before heading out to explore the city’s vibrant nightlife scene. Make sure to stop by Blue Church, a striking Art Nouveau building that’s lit up in blue after dark.

Wachau Valley and Melk Abbey

The Wachau Valley is one of Austria’s most scenic regions, and a visit here can easily be combined with a stop at the famous Melk Abbey. The valley is located just outside of Vienna and can be reached by car or train. Once in the valley, there are numerous hiking and biking trails to explore, as well as many wineries and restaurants. The Melk Abbey is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the area and is definitely worth a visit.

The abbey is a 900-year-old Baroque masterpiece set high atop a hill overlooking the river Danube. It features an impressive church, library, and monastery, as well as beautiful gardens and grounds. Inside the building, you can find artworks by some of Europe’s most famous painters, sculptures, and more. The view from the abbey is spectacular, with stunning views of the Wachau Valley stretching out before you.

Visiting both the Wachau Valley and Melk Abbey in one day is an unforgettable experience that should not be missed. Whether you are looking for a relaxing escape or an active adventure, these two destinations will surely satisfy your desires.

Salzburg

Salzburg is one of the most popular day trips from Vienna. The city is only a 2-hour drive from Vienna and is home to many famous attractions, including the Hohensalzburg Castle, the Mirabell Palace, and the Mozart House. Salzburg is also a great place to go for a walk or hike in the mountains, as it is surrounded by several scenic mountain ranges.

The city is also famous for its rich cultural heritage, and visitors can explore the many museums and galleries in Salzburg. The Salzburger Dom is one of the main attractions in the city, and it is a must-see for anyone who visits. The historic city center of Salzburg is full of shops, restaurants, and cafes, making it a great place to wander around and soak up the atmosphere.

For those looking for some outdoor activities, Salzburg is home to several ski resorts, as well as stunning lakes and rivers where visitors can take part in various watersports. The city is also a great place to explore with its many parks and gardens, so you can easily spend a day or two here taking in the sights and sounds of this beautiful city.

Klosterneuburg Abbey

Located just a short train ride from Vienna, the historic town of Klosterneuburg is home to one of Austria’s most important monasteries. The imposing Abbey of Klosterneuburg, founded in 1114, looms over the town from its hilltop perch and is well worth a visit.

The Abbey’s Museum houses an impressive collection of art, including works by Albrecht Dürer, Rubens, and Rembrandt. The monastery’s library is also worth a visit, as it contains over 200,000 volumes, some dating back to the 9th century.

The monastery’s impressive grounds also contain two churches, a baroque garden, and the remnants of a medieval castle. A visit to Klosterneuburg Abbey is an excellent way to experience Austria’s rich history and culture.

Klosterneuburg Abbey is the perfect day trip for history and culture buffs visiting Vienna.

Roman Town of Carnuntum

Carnuntum was a major town in the Roman province of Pannonia. It is located in present-day Austria, near the city of Vienna. The town was founded in the 1st century AD and served as a key military and economic site during the Roman Empire.

Carnuntum was home to a large legionary fortress, as well as numerous temples, public baths, and other monuments. The town flourished until the late 3rd century AD when it was sacked by barbarian invaders. Today, Carnuntum is a popular tourist destination, with many well-preserved Roman ruins.

Carnuntum is best known for its impressive legionary fortress, which was built around the year 8 AD. The fortress covered an area of around 50 hectares and contained barracks, workshops, granaries, and even a tribunal. Within the walls of the fortress stood a large amphitheater, capable of seating up to 15,000 spectators. This amphitheater hosted gladiator fights and other games.

In addition to the fortress, Carnuntum was home to many other impressive Roman monuments. The town had several public baths, temples dedicated to multiple gods (including Jupiter Optimus Maximus), and a theater where plays were performed by actors from across the Roman Empire. There were also numerous statues and monuments that commemorated important figures in Roman history.

Carnuntum became an important commercial hub during the 1st century AD. Its strategic location on major trade routes made it a popular stop-over point for caravans traveling between Rome and Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey). Trade goods such as spices, fabrics, and precious stones flowed through Carnuntum’s markets.

Today, visitors can explore the ruins of the Carnuntum at their leisure. The town’s impressive remains serve as a reminder of its

Village of Grinzing

Just outside of Vienna lies the quaint village of Grinzing. This lovely spot is perfect for a day trip from the city, and there are plenty of things to see and do. Start your day by exploring the many shops and boutiques in the village center.

Grab a bite to eat at one of the local cafes, then head over to the Heuriger (wine taverns) for some traditional Austrian wine and music. If you’re looking for something more active, take a hike up to Reisenberg Castle or go for a swim in the Danube River. No matter what you do, you’re sure to have a great time in Grinzing!

Haydn’s Birthplace and Rohrau Castle

Haydn’s Birthplace is a must-see for music lovers visiting Vienna. The small town of Rohrau, just outside of Vienna, is where Haydn was born and raised. The Haydn House is a museum dedicated to the composer and his life. Visitors can see the room where Haydn was born, as well as other rooms that have been restored to look like they did during Haydn’s lifetime.

Rohrau Castle is another must-see for history buffs visiting Vienna. The castle was built in the 12th century and served as a fortress for the Austrian royalty. Today, the castle houses a museum with exhibits on the history of Rohrau and its residents. Visitors can also explore the castle grounds and take in views of the surrounding countryside.

Eisenstadt and Schloss Esterházy

Eisenstadt is a small Austrian city located about an hour outside of Vienna. The city is most famous for being the home of Schloss Esterházy, one of Austria’s most beautiful and historic castles. Visitors can tour the castle grounds and gardens, and inside the castle, there is a museum with exhibits on the history of the Esterházy family.

Eisenstadt is also home to a number of other historical sights, including the Gothic-style Heiligenkreuz Abbey and the Herzogburg, a Renaissance-era castle. The city makes for a great day trip from Vienna, and its proximity to Hungary means that visitors can easily combine a visit to Eisenstadt with a trip to Budapest.

Laa an der Thaya

Laa an der Thaya is a charming medieval town located in the Austrian province of Lower Austria. The town is situated on the banks of the Thaya River and is home to a number of historic buildings and monuments. Highlights of a visit to Laa an der Thaya include the town hall, the baroque church of St. Nicholas, and the remains of the city walls.

The town hall is an impressive Gothic structure dating back to the 14th century. It was originally built as a fortress for the Counts of Laa, and today it serves as a museum and cultural center. The baroque church of St. Nicholas dates back to the late 17th century and is known for its intricate interior designs. The city walls are another popular attraction in Laa an der Thaya. The original walls were built in the 15th century, but only fragments remain today.

Laa an der Thaya is also home to numerous parks, gardens, and hiking trails that offer amazing views of the surrounding countryside. One of the most popular attractions in Laa an der Thaya is Schloss Laa, a Renaissance castle located on the outskirts of town. The castle is open to visitors and offers guided tours throughout the year.

Cesky Krumlov

Cesky Krumlov is a charming medieval town located in the Czech Republic, just a few hours from Vienna. The town is situated on the Vltava River and is known for its well-preserved castle, lovely gardens, and quaint streets. Visitors can explore the castle grounds, stroll through the picturesque old town, and enjoy views of the river from one of the many bridges.

Cesky Krumlov makes for a great day trip from Vienna and is an ideal spot for those interested in history, architecture, and nature.

The town is home to the stunning Cesky Krumlov Castle, which dates back to the 13th century. The castle houses several museums, including a wax museum and an armory. Visitors can explore the castle grounds and witness its Baroque gardens, admire views of the river from the terrace, or take a tour of the castle’s interior and learn about its history.

Cesky Krumlov’s old town is equally as charming as the castle, with cobbled streets lined with colorful buildings and churches. The main square hosts’ seasonal markets and festivals throughout the year, while visitors can find plenty of restaurants and cafes serving up traditional Czech cuisine in the small side streets.

Cesky Krumlov is also great for nature lovers who enjoy hiking and biking through forests along riverside trails. There are many options for outdoor activities such as kayaking, horseback riding, or visiting nearby waterfalls. In wintertime, visitors can go skiing at one of the nearby resorts or take part in ice skating on a frozen lake in the area.

Brno

Brno is the second largest city in the Czech Republic and is located just over an hour from Vienna. The city has a rich history dating back to the 11th century, and there are plenty of things to see and do. Highlights include the Špilberk Castle, and the Cathedrals of Sts. Peter and Paul, and the Old Town Hall. There are also several museums, including the Museum of Modern Art and the Moravian Gallery. If you’re looking for something a bit different, be sure to check out the underground labyrinth beneath the city!

No trip to Brno would be complete without sampling some of the local cuisines. Traditional Czech dishes like goulash, pork, dumplings, and schnitzel can all be found here. There are also plenty of international restaurants offering everything from Italian to Japanese food. Brno also has a vibrant nightlife scene with plenty of bars, pubs, and clubs to enjoy.

Sopron

Sopron is a charming town in western Hungary that’s just a short drive from Vienna. With its medieval Old Town and friendly locals, Sopron is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. There are plenty of things to see and do in Sopron, from visiting the Gothic Cathedral to exploring the town’s many museums. And if you’re a fan of wine, be sure to take a day trip to one of the nearby vineyards.

Sopron is also known for its unique cuisine. From traditional Hungarian dishes to local specialties like gulyás and töltött káposzta, you’ll have plenty of delicious dishes to choose from during your stay. And don’t forget to try some of the region’s renowned wines! Whether you’re looking for a relaxing weekend getaway or an action-packed adventure, Sopron has something for everyone.

Devin Castle

Located just one hour from Vienna, Devin Castle is a must-see for history buffs and anyone who loves a good castle. This medieval castle was once the seat of power for the powerful Habsburg dynasty and has since been turned into a museum. Visitors can explore the castle’s many rooms and learn about its rich history. Devin Castle is also home to a famous cafe, which is the perfect place to enjoy a coffee or pastry after exploring the castle grounds.

The castle itself dates back to the 11th century and is situated on a commanding hill overlooking the Danube River. It has been through multiple sieges and renovations over the centuries and was most recently renovated in the 1930s. During World War II, Devin Castle was used as a Nazi stronghold and was heavily damaged during battles with Soviet forces. The castle was eventually restored to its former glory and opened to the public in 1958.

Today, visitors can explore the castle’s many rooms which include a chapel, a knight’s hall, an armory, and even an underground dungeon. In addition to exploring the interior of the castle, visitors can also take in breathtaking views of Vienna from atop Devin Castle’s walls.

Lutzmannsburg

Lutzmannsburg is a small town located in the Burgenland region of Austria, about an hour’s drive from Vienna. The town is home to a number of wineries and is a great place to sample some of the local wine. There are also several hiking trails in the area, making it a great place to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

The main attractions in Lutzmannsburg include the Burgenland Wine Museum, which offers a range of exhibits on the history and production of wine in the region, as well as a tasting room. There is also the Lutzmannsburg Castle, a medieval castle built in the 13th century by Count Rudolph IV of Habsburg. The castle was destroyed during World War II but many pieces still remain and it is open to visitors.

The town is also home to several festivals throughout the year such as the Wine Festival in May and the Summer Festival in August. These events are great opportunities to sample some of the best local wines and enjoy traditional Austrian music, dance, and food. If you’re looking for a unique experience, Lutzmannsburg is definitely worth visiting!

Győr

Győr is a beautiful city located in northwestern Hungary. It is the capital of Győr-Moson-Sopron county and has a population of around 131,000 people. The city is home to many historic landmarks and beautiful buildings, as well as a variety of museums and art galleries. Győr is a great place to visit for a day trip from Vienna, as there is plenty to see and do in the city.

Some of the top sights to see in Győr include the Cathedral of Saint Stephen, the Equestrian Statue of King Saint Ladislaus I, the National Theatre of Hungary, and the Museum of Fine Arts. If you’re looking for something to do outside of sightseeing, you can take a walk or bike ride along the Danube River, which runs through Győr. Or, you can visit one of the city’s many parks, such as Széchenyi Park or Lukács Baths & Spa.

No matter what you decide to do during your time in Győr, you’re sure to have a wonderful time exploring this Hungarian gem.

Linz

Linz, the capital of Upper Austria, is a charming city located on the Danube River. It’s just a short train ride from Vienna, making it the perfect day trip destination.

Linz is home to a variety of attractions, from its old-fashioned city center to its world-famous museums, and its unique cultural offerings. The Upper Austrian State Museum, the Ars Electronica Centre for Art and Media Technology, and the Lentos Art Museum are all great places to start your exploration of Linz.

You should also take some time to wander around the city’s cobblestone streets and admire the baroque architecture. On your way you can stop by one of the many cafes or restaurants in town – there’s something for everyone! And don’t forget to visit Landhaus Square where you can listen to live music or check out the local markets.

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day trip or something more adventurous, Linz has it all! With its amazing sights, delicious food, and vibrant culture, it’s no wonder why this beautiful city is so popular with tourists.

There’s plenty to see and do in Linz, from exploring its historic old town to visiting its many museums and galleries. And of course, no visit to Linz would be complete without tasting some of the city’s famous Linzer torte!

Graz

Graz is the capital of the Austrian state of Styria and the second-largest city in Austria after Vienna. The city is situated on the Mur River in the southeastern part of Austria and is approximately 200 km (120 mi) southwest of Vienna.

Graz is a lively university town with a rich cultural scene. The Old Town of Graz, which is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the best-preserved historic city centers in Central Europe. The city’s landmarks include the majestic Schlossberg castle hill, which offers panoramic views of the city, and the stylish Baroque buildings lining Herrengasse street.

Other highlights include Graz Cathedral, Mausoleum, Eggenberg Palace, and Landhaus. The Kunsthaus Graz art museum is worth a visit for its contemporary exhibitions, and foodies will enjoy exploring the city’s many markets and eateries serving regional specialties such as Styrian pumpkin seed oil and “grizzly” sausages.

Graz makes for an enjoyable day trip from Vienna or a great base for exploring Styria. With its museums, castles, palaces, parks, and markets, there is plenty to keep visitors entertained.

Conclusion

Vienna is a great place to visit and explore, but sometimes it’s nice to get away for the day. We hope our list of the best day trips from Vienna has given you some ideas for your own upcoming trip. From peaceful countryside hikes in the Wienerwald region to immersive wine tastings at one of Austria’s many vineyards, there are plenty of options for different activities that can make your time in Vienna and its surroundings even more memorable.