Classic Austria by Car
Fairytale towns meet open roads
Set your own pace on a beautifully curated self-drive journey through Austria, where imperial cities, storybook towns, and alpine scenery unfold effortlessly. With flights, car rental, and breakfast included, enjoy the freedom to explore Vienna, Graz, Salzburg, and the Wachau Valley your way.
What's Included
- Roundtrip economy class airfare to Vienna (VIE)
- Economy category automatic rental car for the duration, including unlimited mileage, air conditioning & mandatory insurances
- 1 night in Vienna at the Hotel Elaya Vienna City Centre, or similar
- 2 nights in Graz at the Hotel Weitzer, or similar
- 2 nights in Salzburg at the Hotel Imlauer & Brau, or similar
- 1 night in Melk at the Hotel Restaurant zur Post, or similar
- 1 night in Vienna at the Hotel Elaya Vienna City Centre, or similar
- Breakfast daily
Great Ways to Explore
Visit Schonbrunn and Hofburg Palaces in Vienna.
Indulge in the cuisine of Graz, the Culinary Capital of Austria.
Experience Mozart’s legacy in Salzburg.
Explore The Sound of Music filming locations in Salzburg.
Discover the magnificent UNESCO-Listed Melk Abbey.
This spectacular Austrian road trip offers a perfect blend of imperial grandeur, alpine beauty, and culinary excellence. Starting and ending in the enchanting capital of Vienna, your journey takes you through a selection of UNESCO World Heritage Sites and picture-perfect landscapes.
Experience the vibrant, artistic energy of Graz, marvel at the fairytale architecture and musical legacy of Salzburg, and witness the baroque splendor of Melk Abbey overlooking the Danube. From the magnificent Krimml Waterfalls to the rolling vineyards of the Wachau Valley, this vacation seamlessly blends self-drive freedom with cultural immersion, allowing you to enjoy world-class coffee house culture, historic landmarks, and breathtaking mountain vistas at your own pace.
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
- Roundtrip economy class airfare to Vienna (VIE)
- Economy category automatic rental car for the duration, including unlimited mileage, air conditioning & mandatory insurances
- 1 night in Vienna at the Hotel Elaya Vienna City Centre, or similar
- 2 nights in Graz at the Hotel Weitzer, or similar
- 2 nights in Salzburg at the Hotel Imlauer & Brau, or similar
- 1 night in Melk at the Hotel Restaurant zur Post, or similar
- 1 night in Vienna at the Hotel Elaya Vienna City Centre, or similar
- Breakfast daily
Visit Schonbrunn and Hofburg Palaces in Vienna.
Indulge in the cuisine of Graz, the Culinary Capital of Austria.
Experience Mozart’s legacy in Salzburg.
Explore The Sound of Music filming locations in Salzburg.
Discover the magnificent UNESCO-Listed Melk Abbey.
This spectacular Austrian road trip offers a perfect blend of imperial grandeur, alpine beauty, and culinary excellence. Starting and ending in the enchanting capital of Vienna, your journey takes you through a selection of UNESCO World Heritage Sites and picture-perfect landscapes.
Experience the vibrant, artistic energy of Graz, marvel at the fairytale architecture and musical legacy of Salzburg, and witness the baroque splendor of Melk Abbey overlooking the Danube. From the magnificent Krimml Waterfalls to the rolling vineyards of the Wachau Valley, this vacation seamlessly blends self-drive freedom with cultural immersion, allowing you to enjoy world-class coffee house culture, historic landmarks, and breathtaking mountain vistas at your own pace.
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
Number of Nights:
- 7
What travelers are saying about our trips to Austria
Day 1. Welcome to Vienna
Touch down in Vienna, collect your rental car, and let the city's charm pull you in. Once you've settled into your hotel, the "City of Dreams" awaits!
Check-in - Elaya Hotel Vienna City Centre
The Elaya Hotel Vienna City Centre is located in the very heart of the city's popular 1st District, but is a haven of calm in a spot off the main thoroughfare. With comfortable and well-appointed guestrooms and an in-house coffee bar, it's situated within easy walking distance of the historic St. Stephen's Cathedral, and is also very convenient for shopping, the arts, fine dining and healthy outdoor activities.
Day 2. Vienna - Graz
Fuel up with a delicious Austrian breakfast before embarking on a scenic journey to Graz. The 125-mile drive will carry you through rolling landscapes to Graz, a place where Renaissance courtyards come to life in perfect harmony with cobblestone alleys and effortless elegance. Upon arrival, consider climbing the Schlossberg (Castle Hill) for a stunning view of the terracotta rooftops, or visit the futuristic Kunsthaus, the "Friendly Alien" of the art world.
This evening, stroll along the banks of the River Mur and have some dinner at a local restaurant.
Check-in - Hotel Weitzer Graz
Set along the banks of the Mur River in Graz’s historic old town, Hotel Weitzer Graz is a landmark hotel that has combined tradition and forward-thinking design for more than a century. Family-run for four generations, this long-standing favorite pairs timeless elegance with a contemporary edge, placing guests just steps from the Kunsthaus Graz, the main square, Schlossberg, and the city’s cultural heart. Its central location makes it an ideal base for discovering Graz on foot while enjoying the comfort of a well-established, modern hotel.
The hotel has 200+ fully renovated rooms with several different design categories, all featuring air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and modern amenities.
Guests can unwind in the rooftop sauna with panoramic city views or stay active in the fitness area before indulging in Styrian cuisine at the acclaimed restaurant Der Steirer or enjoying classic Austrian coffeehouse culture at Kaffee Weitzer. Nearby attractions include Graz Clock Tower, Murinsel, Glockenspiel, and more.
Day 3. Graz
Embrace the magic of Graz today! Delve into the rich tapestry of this city and its enchanting surroundings. Marvel at the breathtaking mountain vistas that grace the horizon, and admire the serene waters of the Mur River. You can choose to hike the winding scenic trails or head up the nearby Schlossberg, Plabutsch or Hilmteich Mountains via cable car - enjoying stunning photo ops all along the way!
Schlossberg Clock Tower
Day 4. Graz - Salzburg
After a hearty breakfast, head towards Salzburg. The journey ahead is stunning, but the highlight of the drive is the Krimml Waterfalls. Take a moment to stand before the breathtaking falls against the sheer rock surfaces, as you capture awe-inspiring photos. Then, once you arrive in Salzburg, check in to your hotel and spend the evening at your leisure.
Check-in - Hotel Imlauer & Brau, Salzburg
Seamlessly blending tradition with innovation, the Hotel Imlauer & Bräu Salzburg is a welcoming 4-star hotel near central Salzburg. This hotel is famous for its incredible customer service and authentic fine dining, which improves the overall experience even more drastically.
The comfortable guest rooms come in an array of different colors, sizes, and designs. Each has a traditional home-like feel and are equipped with a private bathroom, soundproof windows, a television, and more.
Guests may enjoy a hearty, home-cooked meal at the Braurestaurant Imlauer. Options include various cuisines as well as a beer garden open from May through September.
The hotel is situated in the center of Salzburg, just a few steps away from Mirabell Palace and the new Congress Center. Enjoy close access to famous sights such as Klessheim Castle, Museum der Moderne Salzburg, Mozart's Residence, and many more.
Day 5. Salzburg
Get ready for a day full of exploring in Salzburg! Start with strolling through the enchanting Mirabell Gardens, then head to the historic Getreidegasse to pay your respects at Mozart’s childhood home. As you continue your journey, stop at local restaurants and cafes to try delicious foods. A must-have while you're there is Salzburger Nockerl. This airy souffle-like dessert usually sits on a bed of raspberry sauce to balance the sweetness, and is loved by locals and tourists alike.
Mozart's childhood home
Day 6. Salzburg - Melk
Say goodbye to Salzburg and enjoy your scenic voyage to Melk. Take in the stunning landscape full of rolling vineyards and charming riverside villages. Keeping watch over it all is the magnificent baroque-style Melk Abbey, an UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take your time exploring its marble halls and lovely terraces before heading into the town of Melk itself. When late afternoon hits, be sure to gaze out upon the Danube River and see why it has inspired many poets and travelers for centuries.
Check-in - Hotel Restaurant zur Post Melk
Located on Melk’s main square with direct views of the iconic Melk Abbey, Hotel Restaurant zur Post is a family-run boutique hotel that blends long-standing tradition with contemporary comfort. With just 28 individually designed rooms, each inspired by the character and landscapes of the Wachau region, the hotel offers a warm, intimate stay rooted in authentic Austrian hospitality. Its central location makes it an ideal base for exploring the town, the Danube Valley, and the surrounding countryside.
The hotel’s restaurant is a highlight, serving refined Austrian classics with a modern twist, crafted from high-quality regional ingredients sourced from the Wachau and Mostviertel. Guests can enjoy seasonal dishes, local fish and game, fine regional wines from the vinotheque, or homemade ice cream, all while overlooking the abbey’s impressive setting. With a relaxing sauna, free Wi-fi, and excellent on-site cuisine, the experience at the Hotel Restaurant zur Post Melik is both exciting and intimate.
Day 7. Melk - Vienna
After breakfast, start your journey back to Vienna. During this final drive, soak up the last of the Wachau Valley's magical vineyards, sparkling river, and picture-perfect villages.
After checking into your accommodation in Vienna, toast to your incredible journey with a final dinner at a local restaurant.
Check-in - Elaya Hotel Vienna City Centre
The Elaya Hotel Vienna City Centre is located in the very heart of the city's popular 1st District, but is a haven of calm in a spot off the main thoroughfare. With comfortable and well-appointed guestrooms and an in-house coffee bar, it's situated within easy walking distance of the historic St. Stephen's Cathedral, and is also very convenient for shopping, the arts, fine dining and healthy outdoor activities.
Day 8. Depart Vienna
The time has come to leave Austria. Return your rental car back to the airport and board your flight home.
Fly home
We have selected the most economical flight schedule for you. Please note that shorter and more convenient flight options may be available at an additional cost.
Advertised vacation package prices are per person based on two people traveling together, unless otherwise noted. Advertised package rates are based on select departures as noted on the booking calendar above, were available via the Great Value Vacations website and may not represent current prices.
Vacation packages include round-trip economy class airfare on valid international carriers as noted in specific package inclusions and as indicated on booking engine calendar, which may also include code share flight agreements between carriers as indicated during the booking process. Carriers may vary based on city of origin.
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