An Introduction to Austria: Vienna, Salzburg, and Innsbruck
Discover the best of Austria on this seven-day tour. Geared towards first-time visitors, this itinerary showcases the most iconic cities as well as a vivid sense of the local lifestyle.
DAY 01: ARRIVAL IN VIENNA
Vienna is the natural start for your tour. It is the historic focal point of the country, the seat of the former Austrian emperor, and of course Austria’s largest and most international city.
Visitors to Vienna will find a diverse, innovative, and thoroughly modern city. But for most of the last 70 years, the capital was defined by its grand past: the hub of a vast, multinational empire. Understanding that great history is key to discovering its identity today.
A tour of the Old Town delivers a wonderful introduction to Vienna. Whether you choose a guided tour or want to explore on your own, we recommend going on foot so you’ll have ample time to take in the city’s grand architecture. From the great gothic details of the newly renovated St. Stephen’s Cathedral to the Imperial Palace and the intimate little alleys in between, there’s much to see and do. Leave room for a Wiener Melange or a typical Viennese lunch at any of the beloved coffeehouses there – Cafe Griensteidl or the Hawelka, for instance.
We also suggest a stop at the Imperial Palace, the former seat of the Habsburg Emperors, for a glimpse of the Imperial Apartments, and the Sissi Museum for an introduction to the dynasty that ruled Austria for almost 600 years.
At the end of the day, reward yourself with a delicious dinner at the famed Schwarzes Kameel. The restaurant serves excellent traditional dishes in an elegant setting. Be sure to make a reservation in advance; most popular Viennese restaurants require one. For a nightcap, head to the Loos Bar. As the name suggests, its interior was designed by the great modernist architect Adolf Loos and remains a society hot spot to this day.
DAY 02: VIENNA IMMERSION
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at one of Vienna’s sprawling farmer’s markets. Located in the heart of Vienna and surrounded by art nouveau buildings designed by Otto Wagner, the Naschmarkt is an unforgettable experience. The surrounding architecture tells the story of the epic struggle that shook the city at the turn of the century, as modern thinkers and artists attempted to shatter cultural norms. At the market itself, you’ll find local specialties, plus spices and delicacies from all over the world. No shortage of culinary souvenirs here, either: Stop at Gegenbauer for unique and surprisingly delicious vinegar and oil varieties, or try Szigeti’s for a bottle or two of Sekt, Austria’s beloved sparkling wine.
Next, stop at the Secession building to see the famous Beethoven Frieze, by Gustav Klimt. From there, head to the Museums Quartier for an afternoon of art and architecture. At the MQ, former imperial stables now house one of the largest museum complexes in Europe. You could spend days here, exploring the small galleries, exhibitions spaces, and installations tucked into the baroque buildings - but for a single afternoon, we suggest the modern Leopold Museum, home of the largest Schiele collection in the world. Next, head across the street to the Kunsthistorisches Museum and the vast art collection the Habsburgs amassed over the centuries. Again, you could lose yourself here — but if you only have time for one collection, head to the Kunstkammer for unique art treasures, such as Benvenuto Cellini’s precious salt cellar, the Saliera, dating back to the 16th century.
For a particularly memorable final evening in Vienna, enjoy a dinner and concert at Schonbrunn Palace, the summer residence of the Habsburgs. Just a 20-minute subway ride from the city center,. (purchase tickets in advance as this gets sold out fairly quickly)
DAY 03: VIENNA AND SALZBURG
This morning, take the three-hour train ride to Salzburg. Taking the train from city to city is the most efficient way to travel, and it affords ample time to enjoy the scenery. As you leave Vienna’s relatively flat surroundings, watch as the alpine mountain ranges lining Salzburg’s historic cityscape begin to appear.
After checking into your hotel, join a small group walking tour of Old Town before you head to Stiftskulinarium (formerly St. Peter Stiftskeller) for dinner.
In the mood for a little music? Make reservations in advance for the Mozart Dinner Concerts, at Hohensalzburg Fortress which highlight the most beloved arias and duets from the composer’s operas.
DAY 04: SALZBURG
This day plan for an experience of a “Sound of Music”-themed tour of the city and its outskirts” From the magnificent Baroque architecture of the Old Town to a wealth of local traditions, outstanding modern art galleries, and international performing arts festivals of the highest caliber. In the early evening, take a leisurely stroll to the beautiful Mirabel! Gardens across the river before heading to Fideler Affe for a traditional dinner, and samples of Salzburg’s much-loved local beer. Enjoy a nightcap on the terrace of the Sacher Bar by the Salzach river, with views over the Old Town and the fortress.
DAY 05: DEPARTURE TO INNSBRUCK
Take a train to Innsbruck. The scenic two-hour journey delivers you to the heart of the Alps, where the culture, mythology, and local economy revolve largely around the majestic mountains. The capital of Tirol, Innsbruck is a sizeable city that’s managed to retain its medieval charm throughout the centuries. The former imperial city is a cultural center and winter sports destination — so far it’s hosted three Olympic games. Celebrate your first evening in Innsbruck with a traditional Tyrolean dinner in the heart of the Old Town.
DAY 06: INNSBRUCK
Innsbruck’s past — as a trade hub, mining town, and seat of an imperial court — long attracted scholars and artists such as Albrecht Durer. Spend the morning exploring the Old Town and its cultural offerings. The Imperial Palace, the Folk Art Museum, and Imperial Church are located at the heart of Innsbruck and are all within five minutes of each other. Together, these museums provide a thorough overview of the local history, and a memorable look at how people made a living in this rough, mountainous environment. In the afternoon, visit the Panorama Museum with its 360-degree panoramic painting, depicting one of the most momentous events in the city’s history. Then head to the iconic Bergisel Ski Jump, designed by architect Zaha Hadid. There you’ll see firsthand the daring heights from which ski jumpers hurtle themselves down the ramp. Or you can explore the mountains by taking the Hungerburgbahn — another Zaha Hadid creation — from the city center to the top of Nordkette Mountain. Enjoy the views over Innsbruck from the mountaintop restaurant, or take the panoramic tram ride from Innsbruck to one of its Holiday Villages, jglli, for a leisurely stroll through the village.
DAY 07: DEPARTURE
From Innsbruck, return to the US with connecting flight to Vienna or another European hub. Departing Innsbruck’s international airport, you’ll find the views are truly spectacular and well worth the early departure time.