Morning: Arrive at Vienna International Airport and check into your centrally located hotel. Take a leisurely walk to St. Stephen’s Cathedral, where you can admire its gothic spire and explore the catacombs.
Afternoon: Head to the magnificent Schönbrunn Palace and wander through its opulent state rooms and extensive gardens. Don’t miss the Gloriette for panoramic city views.
Evening: Enjoy a classic Viennese dinner at a traditional heuriger, followed by a stroll along the illuminated Ringstraße, spotting landmarks like the Vienna State Opera and the Hofburg Palace.
Find HotelsMorning: Depart early by train to Hallstatt, a scenic 2½‑hour journey through the Salzkammergut region. Upon arrival, check into a lakeside guesthouse and start with a walk along the tranquil Hallstatt Lake.
Afternoon: Ride the historic funicular to the Hallstatt Skywalk “World Heritage View” for breathtaking vistas of the mountains and the lake. Afterwards, explore the charming narrow alleys and visit the Hallstatt Bone House for a unique cultural insight.
Evening: Dine on fresh fish from the lake at a waterfront restaurant, then relax on the pier while the sunset paints the Alpine peaks pink.
Find HotelsMorning: Take a scenic bus to the Dachstein Ice Cave, where you’ll marvel at stunning ice formations and a frozen waterfall. Continue to the 5‑Finger Platform for an unforgettable alpine panorama.
Afternoon: Travel to the iconic Grossglockner High Alpine Road, driving the winding route that offers dramatic views of Austria’s highest mountain. Stop at the Franz-Josefs-Höhe viewpoint for photo opportunities.
Evening: Return to Hallstatt, enjoy a cozy dinner in the village, and unwind with a traditional Austrian apple strudel while reflecting on the day’s spectacular scenery.
Find HotelsMorning: Check out and head to Salzburg by train (about 2 hours). Begin with a visit to Mirabell Palace and Gardens, strolling among beautifully sculpted hedges and fountains.
Afternoon: Explore the historic fortress of Hohensalzburg, taking the funicular up for sweeping city views. Walk through the charming Getreidegasse, sampling a slice of Mozartkugel.
Evening: Conclude your trip with a farewell dinner featuring Salzburg specialties, then transfer to the airport for your departure flight.
Find HotelsIf you have extra time, consider extending your stay in Hallstatt to enjoy a sunrise boat tour or add a day in Innsbruck for more Alpine adventure. To shorten the itinerary, you could skip the Grossglockner drive and spend that half‑day exploring Salzburg’s museums instead, which reduces travel time and costs.