By emma hynes
Vienna is a city of imperial grandeur, world-class culture and historic charm. Beyond its elegant streets lies a world of breathtaking landscapes, medieval castles and picturesque villages just waiting to be explored.
Best of all, many of these destinations are just an hour or two away, making it easy to experience something new without straying too far from Austria’s capital.
Here are the best day trips that promise adventure, relaxation and a fresh perspective on Austria’s stunning surroundings.
Wachau valley is a UNESCO-listed region known for its breathtaking landscapes, vineyards and historic sites along the Danube River. The Melk Abbey, a stunning baroque monastery, is a highlight of the area.
Mozart’s birthplace and the setting of The Sound of Music, Salzburg is a city of baroque beauty, cultural heritage and alpine views. Visit Hohensalzburg Fortress and stroll through Mirabell Gardens.
A picture-perfect lakeside village, Hallstatt is famous for its charming streets, stunning mountain scenery and one of the world’s oldest salt mines.
This historic spa town is known for its thermal baths, charming streets and beautiful hiking trails in the Vienna Woods. It’s also home to Austria’s oldest casino.
A hidden gem just outside Vienna, Laxenburg offers a fairy-tale castle, tranquil parklands and a picturesque lake where you can rent boats.
Take a scenic train ride through the Alps on the historic Semmering Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The area is great for hiking in summer and skiing in winter.
Located in the heart of the Wachau Valley, Krems is a historic wine town with a lovely old town, art museums and excellent wine tasting opportunities.
A beautifully preserved Renaissance castle near Melk, featuring impressive exhibitions, gardens and a fascinating blend of medieval and Renaissance architecture.