Austria effortlessly weaves together imperial history, breathtaking alpine landscapes, vibrant culture, and striking architecture, making it a dream destination for Indian travellers seeking a memorable European escape. Whether you're visiting the continent for the first time or returning with a renewed curiosity, Austria’s charm lies in its balance of elegance and authenticity. From baroque towns and snow-capped peaks to classical music halls and serene lakesides, it offers something for every kind of explorer.
One of the most rewarding ways to experience the country's beauty is by road. It offers the freedom to uncover hidden gems, linger in scenic valleys, and absorb the atmosphere at your own pace. With smooth highways, postcard-perfect pit stops, and rich cultural highlights along the way, a well-paced road journey captures the true essence of Austria. Let’s begin this unforgettable drive through Austria’s most captivating regions, starting right in the heart of its imperial capital.
Your Austrian adventure begins in Vienna, a city that effortlessly blends imperial grandeur with timeless elegance. From the moment you arrive, the city's well-organised layout and welcoming atmosphere make it easy to navigate and settle in. Once you're ready to explore, start with Vienna’s historic core. This UNESCO World Heritage site brings centuries of royal legacy to life through grand palaces, towering cathedrals, and traditional coffee houses.
Spend the afternoon at Schönbrunn Palace, the former summer residence of the Habsburg dynasty. Its manicured gardens and lavish rooms offer a glimpse into Austria’s opulent past. A visit to the nearby Hofburg Palace complex enhances the experience, showcasing Vienna’s enduring role as a seat of imperial power. At the heart of the city stands St. Stephen’s Cathedral, with its colourful tiled roof and soaring Gothic spire. The surrounding pedestrian streets are perfect for browsing boutiques, enjoying a slice of Sachertorte, or taking in the local atmosphere.
Music lovers can end the day with a performance at the Vienna State Opera, where the works of Mozart and Strauss are brought to life in elegant surroundings. As evening sets in, Vienna’s diverse dining options cater to every taste. Indian travellers will find vegetarian-friendly choices as well as several restaurants serving familiar flavours across the city. For a deeper dive into the city’s cultural gems, explore our Guide to Exploring Vienna’s Historic Old Town.
Leaving the bustle of Vienna behind, head west toward the Wachau Valley. This region, nestled along the Danube River, is famed for its terraced vineyards, ancient castles, and small, idyllic towns. The drive itself is a visual treat, with gentle hills and the sparkling river as your constant companions. Your first stop might be Dürnstein, a charming riverside town where King Richard the Lionheart was once imprisoned. The village, with its blue and white abbey tower, cobblestone streets, and views of the Danube, is one of Austria’s most charming spots.
Further along the valley lies the magnificent Melk Abbey, a sprawling Benedictine monastery perched on a hill above the river. Its library, frescoed ceilings, and baroque architecture are breathtaking, and the view from its balconies is worth the trip alone. Krems an der Donau is another delightful town in the region, blending medieval architecture with a strong wine-making tradition. If you’re interested in local wines, particularly Grüner Veltliner, this is the place to taste and learn. Staying overnight in a countryside guesthouse or vineyard will provide a peaceful end to the day, with local cuisine and friendly hospitality offering a taste of rural Austria.
From the vineyards of the Wachau, continue west to Salzburg, the city of Mozart and baroque beauty. The journey, though a few hours long, is rewarding with changing landscapes as you approach the alpine foothills. Salzburg is renowned for its cultural richness and historic old town. Dominating the city’s skyline is Hohensalzburg Fortress, one of Europe’s largest and best-preserved castles. Accessible by funicular, it offers sweeping views of the city and the mountains beyond.
A stroll through Mirabell Gardens will feel familiar to fans of The Sound of Music, which was famously filmed in and around the city. Salzburg’s charm lies in its narrow lanes, such as Getreidegasse, lined with traditional signs and colourful shopfronts. Don’t miss Mozart’s Birthplace, now a museum, which details the life of the city's most famous son. The Salzburg Cathedral and nearby Residenzplatz continue the story of the city’s importance in both music and religion. Spend the evening enjoying a classical concert or sampling local dishes. For a more in-depth experience of this captivating city, check out Experience The Magic Of Salzburg With This Three-Day Itinerary For Romanian Tourists.
A short but scenic drive from Salzburg brings you to Hallstatt, often referred to as the most beautiful village in Austria—and perhaps in the world. Tucked between the Hallstätter See and the towering Dachstein mountains, this UNESCO-listed village seems straight out of a fairy tale. Park your car at the edge of the village and explore on foot. The pastel-coloured buildings, swans gliding on the lake, and narrow alleys lined with cafes and craft shops offer a tranquil, almost surreal experience.
One of the most interesting local sites is the Bone House (Beinhaus) in the cemetery behind the Catholic Church. This ossuary contains neatly arranged, painted skulls, a centuries-old tradition due to limited burial space. You can also take the funicular up to the Hallstatt Skywalk, offering panoramic views over the lake and rooftops. Another popular experience is a boat ride across the lake, especially at sunset. Hallstatt’s peaceful vibe makes it ideal for a quiet overnight stay. While it is a small village, guesthouses and lakeside hotels offer cosy accommodations with alpine charm.
Continue your road trip through the Salzkammergut region as you make your way to Zell am See. This alpine town is built around a crystal-clear lake, surrounded by mountains, and offers activities for both leisure seekers and adventure lovers. Start by walking or cycling around Lake Zell, a flat and scenic path that lets you take in the surrounding beauty. In summer, the lake is perfect for swimming, paddleboarding, or simply relaxing on its shores.
Take the cable car up to Schmittenhöhe for magnificent views of the Hohe Tauern range. On clear days, you can see Austria’s tallest mountain, Grossglockner, in the distance. A short drive from Zell am See is the glacier at Kitzsteinhorn in Kaprun. Depending on the season, you can experience snow even in the warmer months. The area also features an impressive alpine museum and panoramic platforms at over 3,000 metres above sea level. Zell am See’s town centre offers a relaxed atmosphere, ideal for strolling, shopping, and enjoying meals with lakeside views. Whether you prefer local Austrian fare or international cuisine, options abound.
The journey from Zell am See to Innsbruck takes you deeper into Austria’s alpine heart. As the capital of the Tyrol region, Innsbruck is where imperial history meets alpine tradition. The city’s old town is compact but rich in heritage. Begin at the Golden Roof (Goldenes Dachl), a landmark building with 2,657 fire-gilded copper tiles built for Emperor Maximilian I. From there, wander through the medieval streets filled with boutiques, cafes, and souvenir shops.
A short walk leads to the Imperial Palace (Hofburg) and the Court Church, where the tomb of Maximilian I is surrounded by imposing bronze statues. Innsbruck is also famous for its unique location, mountains rise sharply just beyond the city’s edge. Take the Nordkette cable car from the city centre and ascend to the alpine meadows and peaks above. Within 30 minutes, you can be at over 2,000 metres, enjoying panoramic views, alpine hikes, or even skiing during the winter months. Whether it’s history, nature, or architecture that captures your interest, Innsbruck delivers a well-rounded experience.
As your journey nears its end, it’s time to return to Vienna. The drive from Innsbruck to Vienna takes approximately five hours, but the route offers plenty of scenic detours should you wish to extend the trip. You might consider stopping in towns such as Linz or St. Pölten for a final taste of Austrian town life. Once back in Vienna, spend your remaining hours shopping for souvenirs, exploring any missed sites, or relaxing in a traditional coffee house. If your flight is scheduled for the next day, booking a hotel near the airport can be a wise choice.
Exploring Austria by car offers unmatched flexibility and scenic drives through cities, valleys, and mountains. For Indian tourists planning a road trip, renting a car with Final Rentals makes the process simple, reliable, and tailored for international visitors. Here's what you can expect:
For more details on driving rules and tips for new renters, check out What to Know Before Renting a Car for the First Time in Austria.
Austrian roads are perfect for discovery, connecting Vienna’s royal charm, Zell am See’s peaceful lakes, and Innsbruck’s alpine beauty. For Indian travellers, this week-long journey offers an easy and memorable way to explore the country’s most iconic destinations. When you rent a car in Austria, you gain the freedom to take scenic routes, make spontaneous stops, and uncover hidden gems at your own pace. With the trusted support of Final Rentals, your road trip becomes smooth, flexible, and truly unforgettable!
