Austria is a land of scenic mountains, peaceful lakes, and charming towns—an ideal setting for Spanish travellers looking to go beyond the typical city break. Exploring by car lets you discover its quieter corners, from vineyard-lined valleys to storybook villages. Whether you're drawn to classical music, alpine views, or hearty local cuisine, each stop brings a new highlight. With thoughtful planning and practical travel tips, navigating Austria becomes an easy and rewarding adventure for Spanish visitors. Before you set off, discover why Austria is such a great destination for a road trip and when to plan your journey for the best experience.
Austria is a small country, but it has many different landscapes. In just a few hours of driving, you can go from busy cities to quiet mountain villages. The roads are well-maintained, and the signs are easy to follow. Many people speak English, and Austrians are generally friendly and helpful. A road trip allows you to stop wherever you want. You can visit famous cities like Vienna and Salzburg, but also explore the countryside, lakes, and hidden towns most tourists never see. If you're coming from Spain, you can fly into Vienna or Salzburg and start your journey there.
The best time for a road trip in Austria is from May to September. During these months, the weather is warm, the roads are clear, and most attractions are open. July and August are the most popular but also the busiest, so book in advance if you plan to travel then. Spring and early autumn are also beautiful times to visit. The air is fresh, the trees are green or golden, and the crowds are smaller. Winter road trips are possible too, but you will need snow tyres, and some mountain roads may be closed.
Here’s a suggested itinerary that includes Austria’s best scenic and cultural spots. You can adjust the number of days depending on your travel time.
Start your journey in Vienna, Austria’s elegant capital. It’s full of history, music, and art. Visit Schönbrunn Palace, the Hofburg, and St. Stephen’s Cathedral. Walk through the Museums Quartier and enjoy a slice of Sachertorte in a traditional café. If you enjoy music, don’t miss the chance to attend a classical concert or opera. Vienna is also very walkable, with clean public spaces, green parks, and friendly cafés. Pick up your rental car at the end of your stay in Vienna. You won’t need it in the city, and parking is expensive.
Drive west towards the Wachau Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This area is known for its vineyards, the Danube River, and cute villages like Dürnstein and Melk. Take a short river cruise or enjoy a wine tasting at one of the many small vineyards. The drive along the river is very scenic, especially in spring and autumn. Don’t miss Melk Abbey, a grand baroque monastery that looks over the valley. Stay in a guesthouse or small hotel in Krems for a cosy, local experience.
The next stop is Salzburg, about 2.5 hours away. This city is famous for its music history, stunning architecture, and beautiful surroundings. Visit Mozart’s birthplace, explore the old town, and take the funicular up to Hohensalzburg Fortress. If you like "The Sound of Music", you can join a tour that visits the filming locations. Salzburg also has great local food—try schnitzel, knödel (dumplings), and apple strudel. In the evening, enjoy a walk along the Salzach River or a concert in the Mirabell Palace.
From Salzburg, drive southeast to Hallstatt, one of Austria’s most scenic and charming villages. This small town is well-known for its lakeside views and mountain setting. Go early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid big crowds.While visiting the Salzkammergut region, take time to explore other scenic lakes nearby, such as Wolfgangsee and Attersee.
These areas offer great opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, swimming, or relaxing while enjoying the stunning mountain and lake views. To fully appreciate the charm of the region, consider staying overnight in towns like Hallstatt or Bad Ischl. Once the day-trippers leave, you’ll get to enjoy the calm, authentic atmosphere and experience these places at a slower, more peaceful pace.
Head south to Zell am See, a beautiful lake town surrounded by mountains. It’s a great place to enjoy nature, whether you want to take a boat trip, swim, or go hiking.
From here, drive the Grossglockner High Alpine Road—one of the most scenic drives in Europe. The road takes you high into the Alps, with stunning views and stops along the way. At the top, you’ll find Austria’s highest mountain, the Grossglockner. You can stay in Heiligenblut or nearby villages to enjoy a cosy mountain lodge experience.
Drive west to Innsbruck, the capital of Tyrol. This city is full of alpine character, with colourful buildings and snow-capped peaks. Visit the Golden Roof in the old town and the Hofburg Palace. Innsbruck is also great for local food, traditional crafts, and cable car rides into the mountains. If you're into sports or hiking, there are plenty of options in the area.
To explore even more iconic locations during your road trip, check out our Top Ten Must-See Landmarks in Austria for extra travel inspiration.
To enjoy your Austrian road trip, you’ll need a reliable car. A rental car gives you freedom and flexibility,you can explore small villages, mountain roads, and scenic routes at your own pace. Rent a car with Finalrentals, our platform offers a wide range of vehicles—from compact cars for cities to SUVs for mountain travel.
Driving in Austria is easy for Spanish drivers, but there are a few things to keep in mind:
To help you feel even more prepared on the road, check out Eight Safety Tips for a Smooth and Comfortable Road Trip in Austria.
Austrian food is tasty and comforting. Try Wiener Schnitzel (breaded veal), goulash, and Käsekrainer (cheese-filled sausage). For dessert, enjoy apple strudel, Kaiserschmarrn (shredded pancakes), or Linzer torte. In villages and small towns, look for “Gasthaus” or “Heuriger” signs—these are traditional restaurants or wine taverns. They often serve local dishes at afford reasonable prices.
Be sure to sample some of Austria’s excellent local wines and beers, particularly in regions like Wachau and Styria, which are known for their high-quality vineyards and breweries. However, if you're driving, keep in mind that Austria has a strict zero-tolerance policy on alcohol consumption for drivers. To stay safe and within the law, save any alcoholic drinks for after you've finished driving for the day.
The main language is German, but many Austrians speak English—especially younger people and those working in tourism. Knowing a few basic German phrases helps:
Austrians are polite and punctual. It’s common to greet with a smile and a handshake. Tipping is usual—round up your bill or leave 5–10% at restaurants.
To ensure a smooth and stress-free journey, consider these practical steps before and during your trip:
Austrian road trips offer Spanish travellers the freedom to explore at their own pace—visiting iconic sights, enjoying local food, and soaking in stunning scenery. From cultural gems to alpine views, every stop has something special. For a smooth and flexible journey, rent your car in Austria with Finalrentals. Start your adventure today and experience Austria like never before!
