Austria 7 days travel itinerary - day by day guide with budget and tips
Austria7 days$700-1400

7 Days Austria Itinerary

This 7-day Austrian adventure takes you through the heart of the country, exploring imperial Vienna, the musical city of Salzburg, the charming village of Hallstatt, and the alpine city of Innsbruck. Experience a mix of historical landmarks, stunning natural beauty, and delicious Austrian cuisine.

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Duration

7 days

Budget

$700-1400

Best Time

Austria offers unique experiences throughout the year

Activities

29

Daily Avg

$150/day

Cities

Austria (2d), Salzburg (5d)

Pace

Moderate

Perfect for:Adventure seekersFood loversHistory buffsPhotographers
Low RiskAustria is a very safe country with a low crime rate. Be aware of pickpockets in crowded tourist areas.

Austria offers a captivating blend of imperial history, stunning alpine landscapes, and vibrant cultural experiences. From the grand palaces of Vienna to the picturesque villages nestled in the Alps, Austria provides a diverse and unforgettable travel experience.

Your itinerary covers 4 of 10 must-have experiences

🏰

An Imperial Palace

Day 1: Schönbrunn Palace Tour

⛰️

An Alpine Summit

e.g., Großglockner High Alpine Road, Dachstein Skywalk (Schladming)

❌
☕

A Historic Coffee House

e.g., Café Central (Vienna), Demel (Vienna)

❌
🍎

A Vibrant Local Market

Day 1: Lunch at Naschmarkt

🎶

A Classical Music Performance

Day 4: Sound of Music Tour (Optional)

🏞️

A Serene Lakeside Town

Day 5: Bus to Hallstatt

🍇

A Traditional Wine Tavern (Heuriger)

e.g., Mayer am Pfarrplatz (Vienna), Heuriger Hengl-Haselbrunner (Vienna)

❌
🖼️

A World-Class Art Museum

e.g., Albertina (Vienna), Kunsthistorisches Museum (Vienna)

❌
♨️

A Relaxing Thermal Spa

e.g., Therme Wien (Vienna), Aqua Dome (Längenfeld, Tyrol)

❌
🧊

A Subterranean Ice World

e.g., Eisriesenwelt Werfen (Salzburg), Dachstein Ice Cave (Obertraun)

❌

Austrian cuisine is hearty and comforting, heavily influenced by its Central European neighbors. Expect rich flavors, generous portions, and a focus on meat, potatoes, and dumplings. Don't miss out on the pastries – they are world-renowned!

Must-Try Dishes

Wiener Schnitzel$15-30

A thin, breaded, and pan-fried cutlet of veal (traditionally), pork, or chicken. It's crispy, savory, and a true Austrian classic.

📍 Figlmüller (Vienna), traditional restaurants (Gasthäuser) throughout Austria

Sachertorte$6-10 per slice

A dense chocolate cake with a thin layer of apricot jam, coated in dark chocolate icing. It's rich, decadent, and a must-try for chocolate lovers.

📍 Hotel Sacher (Vienna), Café Central (Vienna), most cafes

Tafelspitz$20-35

Boiled beef in broth, served with horseradish sauce, creamed spinach, and potato rösti. A simple yet flavorful and comforting dish.

📍 Plachutta Wollzeile (Vienna), traditional restaurants specializing in Austrian cuisine

Käsespätzle$12-20

Soft egg noodles mixed with melted cheese (typically Emmental or Gruyère) and topped with crispy fried onions. A hearty and satisfying vegetarian option.

📍 Mountain huts (Almhütten), traditional restaurants in the Alps

Food Neighborhoods

Naschmarkt (Vienna)

International food stalls, fresh produce, spices

Leopoldstadt (Vienna)

Kosher and Jewish cuisine, diverse restaurants

Neubau (Vienna)

Trendy cafes, restaurants, and bars

Salzburg Altstadt (Salzburg)

Traditional Austrian cuisine, upscale dining

Dietary Tips

Vegetarian options are becoming increasingly available, especially in larger cities. Look for 'Vegetarisch' on menus. Vegan options are less common, but growing in popularity; HappyCow app can be helpful. For allergies, clearly communicate your needs in German (or English) to the waitstaff. Halal food is not widely available outside of some larger cities with significant Muslim populations.

Food Etiquette

Wait to be seated at restaurants. It's customary to say 'Mahlzeit' (mealtime) or 'Guten Appetit' (enjoy your meal) before eating. Tipping is expected; round up to the nearest euro or two for good service, or leave 5-10% of the bill. It's polite to thank the server when they bring your food and when you pay.

Vienna Ball Season
Wiener Ballsaison
January-February

Traditional Viennese ball season with over 450 balls in elegant venues.

Elevated cost (1.5x)Moderate crowdsOpera BallPhilharmonic BallWaltzing

Note: Book ball tickets months ahead

Highlight of the Day
Visiting Schönbrunn Palace
☀️26°/16°C$66

🛣️Interesting Detours & Side Trips

  1. 🚶Take the U-Bahn (U4) to Karlsplatz, then a short walk to the hotel in Innere Stadt.

    9:00 AM - Schönbrunn Palace Tour

    $25

    Explore the opulent summer residence of the Habsburgs. Take a guided tour of the palace and wander through the beautiful gardens. Arrive early to beat the crowds.

    Schönbrunner Schloßstraße 47, 1130 Wien
    Book on Klook
  2. 🚶Take the U-Bahn (U4) from Karlsplatz to Schönbrunn.

    12:00 PM - Lunch at Naschmarkt

    $15

    Enjoy a diverse culinary experience at Vienna's largest market. Sample local delicacies and international cuisine. Try a Käsekrainer (cheese-filled sausage).

    Naschmarkt, 1060 Wien
    🍽️

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  3. 🚶Take the U-Bahn (U4) from Schönbrunn to Karlsplatz, then walk to Naschmarkt.

    2:00 PM - Hofburg Palace

    $20

    Visit the winter residence of the Habsburgs, housing the Imperial Apartments, Sisi Museum, and Silver Collection. Explore the historical significance of this grand palace.

    Michaelerkuppel, 1010 Wien
    Book on Klook
  4. 🚶Take the U-Bahn (U4) from Karlsplatz to Herrengasse, then walk to Hofburg Palace.

    5:00 PM - St. Stephen's Cathedral

    $6 (tower climb)

    Climb the south tower for panoramic city views. Admire the Gothic architecture and explore the catacombs. Check for evening concerts.

    Stephansplatz 3, 1010 Wien
    Book on Klook
🏨
Where to Stay Tonight

Innere Stadt (1st District)

Central location, close to major attractions, excellent public transport links.

Check-in: 3:00 PMCheck-out: 11:00 AM$90-160/nightSearch Hotels on Klook

📅 Best Time to Visit

Austria offers unique experiences throughout the year. Summer (June-August) is popular for hiking, lake activities, and city sightseeing, though it's peak season with larger crowds and higher prices. Winter (December-March) attracts skiers to the Alps and features enchanting Christmas markets in the cities. Spring (April-May) and Autumn (September-October) are ideal for milder weather, fewer tourists, and beautiful landscapes, perfect for city breaks and less strenuous outdoor activities.

Summer in Austria is generally warm and sunny, with occasional showers. Temperatures are pleasant for outdoor activities, but it can get crowded.

🗓️
peak season

Summer is a popular time to visit Austria, especially for outdoor activities and city sightseeing.

📅

Check for public holidays as shops and some attractions may be closed.

Getting Around

Open in Google Maps →

Vienna has excellent U-Bahn; ÖBB trains connect cities

Common Modes
U-BahnTramS-BahnÖBB trainsBus
Ride-Hailing Apps
UberBolt
Transit Card

Wiener Linien pass (Vienna)

Pro Tip

Get a 24/72-hour Vienna pass for unlimited transit. Book ÖBB Sparschiene tickets for cheap fares.

✈️

Travel

$100-200 (Intercity trains/buses)
🏨

Accommodation

$350-700 (Hostels/Budget Hotels)
🍽️

Food

$210-420
🎯

Activities

$40-80
💸
Saving

Utilize public transport passes (e.g., Vienna Pass, Salzburg Card, regional travel cards) for cost-effective travel within cities or regions. These often include museum entries.

💸
Saving

Look for 'Mittagsmenü' (lunch menus) in restaurants during weekdays. These offer often high-quality meals at significantly lower prices than dinner menus.

✨
Splurge

Indulge in a classical music concert or an opera performance in Vienna or Salzburg for an unforgettable cultural experience. Book premium seats for the best view.

✨
Splurge

Treat yourself to a traditional 'Kaffeehaus' (coffee house) experience with a lavish coffee, a Sachertorte, or Apfelstrudel. It's an iconic Austrian tradition.

💡
Local Wisdom

Visit a 'Heuriger' (traditional wine tavern) in the Vienna Woods or other wine regions for local wine, simple yet delicious food, and an authentic atmosphere that's often more affordable than city restaurants.

💡
Local Wisdom

Take advantage of free walking tours often available in major cities. They are a great way to get an overview and local insights, with tips to the guide being optional.

  • Public Transport: Austria has an excellent, efficient, and punctual public transport system. Utilize trains (ÖBB), buses, trams, and subways for inter-city and intra-city travel.
  • Tipping Culture: Tipping is customary. For good service in restaurants, round up the bill or add 5-10%. For taxis, round up to the nearest Euro.
  • Cash vs. Card: While credit and debit cards are widely accepted, especially in larger establishments, always carry some cash (€) for smaller shops, local markets, or when visiting remote areas.
  • Greetings: A friendly 'Grüß Gott' (informal, especially in southern Austria) or 'Servus' (very informal) is a common greeting and appreciated by locals. 'Guten Tag' is also widely understood.
  • Tap Water: Austrian tap water is of exceptional quality and safe to drink everywhere. Bring a reusable water bottle to refill and stay hydrated.
  • Punctuality: Austrians value punctuality. Be on time for any appointments, tours, or reservations.
  • Power Adapter: Austria uses Type F (Schuko) power outlets, so ensure you bring the correct adapter for your electronic devices.
  • 1
    Layers of clothing: Essential due to varying temperatures, especially when transitioning between cities and mountains or different times of day.
  • 2
    Comfortable walking shoes: For exploring cities, hiking, or simply getting around comfortably on cobblestone streets.
  • 3
    Rain jacket or umbrella: Weather can be unpredictable, especially during spring and autumn, and in mountainous regions.
  • 4
    Smart casual outfit: For cultural events (e.g., classical concerts in Vienna), nice dinners, or visits to upscale establishments.
  • 5
    Reusable water bottle: To refill with Austria's excellent tap water and reduce plastic waste.
  • 6
    Power adapter (Type F): For charging all your electronics, as Austria uses the Schuko plug.
  • 7
    Sunscreen and sunglasses: Especially crucial if visiting the Alps or during summer months, due to strong UV radiation.
  • 8
    Small backpack or daypack: Convenient for day trips, carrying essentials, and any souvenirs.
  • 9
    Swimwear: If you plan to visit any of Austria's beautiful lakes, thermal baths, or hotel pools.
  • 10
    Sturdy hiking boots (seasonal): If you intend to engage in mountain hiking or trekking, good ankle support and grip are vital.

Accommodation (hotels, apartments)

Book 3-6 months in advance, especially for peak seasons (summer, ski season, Christmas markets) or during major festivals.

Major Attractions (e.g., Schönbrunn Palace, Hofburg Imperial Apartments)

Book timed entry tickets online a few weeks in advance to secure preferred slots and avoid long queues.

Inter-city train tickets (ÖBB)

Book 1-2 months ahead for popular routes (e.g., Vienna-Salzburg) and peak times to secure better 'Sparschiene' (saver) fares.

Visa requirements

Check Schengen Area visa requirements based on your nationality at least 3 months before travel; apply if necessary.

Cultural events (e.g., Vienna State Opera, classical concerts)

Tickets for popular performances can sell out months in advance; book as soon as your travel dates are firm.

Ski passes and lessons

If visiting in winter, secure these in advance, especially during holiday periods, to ensure availability and potentially better prices.

Car rental

If planning independent exploration of rural areas or the Alps, book a car rental 1-2 months in advance for better rates and availability.

Note: Travel conditions, regulations, and local customs may change. We recommend verifying essential details — such as visa requirements, emergency contacts, and payment options — closer to your travel date.

SIM & Connectivity

SIM Options

Airalo$9.50 for 1GB / 7 days
eSIM1GB to 20GB plans available

📍 Airalo app or website

A1$20 for 15GB / 30 days
Physical SIM15GB

📍 A1 shops, supermarkets, tobacconists

Magenta$15 for 10GB / 30 days
Physical SIM10GB

📍 Magenta shops, supermarkets, tobacconists

Travel Wifi$70 for 7 days (Unlimited)
Pocket WiFiUnlimited

📍 Online pre-booking and pick-up at Vienna Airport

WiFi Availability

Free WiFi is widely available in hotels, cafes, and some public areas, especially in cities. Quality can vary. Look for signs indicating 'Free WiFi' or ask for the password.

Useful Apps

Google Maps - Navigation, public transport informationÖBB Scotty - Train and public transport schedules, ticket purchaseWienMobil - Vienna public transport appHappyCow - Finding vegetarian and vegan restaurantsGoogle Translate - Language translation
Pro Tip

Consider an eSIM for convenience upon arrival. Physical SIM cards offer good value but require finding a retailer. Pocket WiFi is a good option for families or groups needing to share a connection. Check the coverage maps of different providers before purchasing a SIM card, especially if you plan to travel to rural areas. You can usually find free WiFi at train stations.

Electric Socket Guide

Socket Types

Type C

Two round pins (Europlug)

Type F

Two round pins + side earth clips (Schuko)

Voltage

230V

Frequency

50Hz

Tipping Etiquette

Restaurants

5–10% or round up

Taxis

Round up or 10%

Hotels

€1–2 per bag

Say the total (including tip) when paying — don't leave tip on the table.

Safety & Travel Advisories

Low Risk

Austria is a very safe country with a low crime rate. Be aware of pickpockets in crowded tourist areas.

Check official government advisories for the latest safety information, entry requirements, and travel warnings before your trip.

US State Department
Travel advisory & entry requirements
UK Foreign Office
Travel advice & safety updates

Emergency Numbers

👮
Police

133

🚑
Ambulance

144

🚒
Fire

122

112 for European emergency number

Payments

Cash Culture

Austria is more cash-friendly than many EU countries

Credit Cards

Accepted at most places but cash still common

Contactless

Available at larger establishments

Pro Tip

Carry cash — many traditional restaurants and heurigers prefer it.

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Trip Summary

DestinationAustria
Duration7 days
Budget$700-1400

How was this itinerary?

The best time to visit depends on your interests. Summer (June-August) is ideal for hiking and outdoor activities, while winter (December-March) is perfect for skiing and Christmas markets. Spring and autumn offer milder weather and fewer crowds.

Generated by MonkeyEatingMango 🥭

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DestinationAustria
Duration7 days
Budget$700-1400
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