15 Day Trips from Vienna and Weekend Getaways

The Austrian capital may very well be the most beautiful city in all of Europe.

While there is no shortage of things to do in Vienna, if you’re visiting the Imperial City, you still may find yourself in need of a day trip or weekend getaway.

This guide combines shorter outings with places that deserve an overnight stay. A destination being reachable from Vienna does not automatically make it a pleasant day trip: count both journeys, local transfers and the time you actually want to spend exploring.

A collaborative guide with guest recommendations credited below, plus editorial planning advice from Beautifully Travelled.

Which Vienna Trips Work Best for a Day or a Weekend?

These are our planning recommendations, not timetable guarantees. Your starting point in Vienna, travel date, connections and pace will change what is realistic.

Check the complete outward and return journey with ÖBB, including station names, changes and local transport. Allow time for meals and breaks too. If you are still planning your base, start with our Vienna travel tips.

Bratislava, Slovakia

Bratislava is the capital of neighboring country Slovakia, and a popular day trip from Vienna, given its close proximity. 

Be sure to visit Michael’s Gate, which serves as the entrance to the city’s Old Town.  Once you’re under Michael’s Gate, look for the Golden Circle.  The Golden Circle depicts the distance from Bratislava to other capital cities in Europe – how cool!

Visit beautiful Hviezdoslav Square full of trees and often a place for art exhibits.  Here you’ll find the Slovak National Theatre if you’re in the mood for an opera or ballet.

Grassalkovich Palace is another architectural stop to consider. Check access arrangements before planning a garden visit; do not assume every part of the grounds is always open.

Bratislava Castle is one of the main attractions of the city.  Here, you can find stunning views of the entire city.

Given its close proximity to Vienna, it’s ideal for a day trip since most of the city sites can be seen in a day.  If you find yourself here for a weekend, get out of the city and visit Devin Castle.  One of the three oldest castles in Slovakia, Devin Castle should absolutely be on your Slovakia bucket list.

While in Bratislava, you must try some authentic Slovak cuisine.  While on the heavy side, it’s stick-to-your-ribs good.

Trip planning: Bratislava is a good starting point for a shorter outing. Compare the stations and services shown for your date, then allow for the transfer into the Old Town.

Contribution: Kami, My Wanderlust

Brno, Czechia

Brno, the second-largest city in the Czech Republic, is located only 150 km away from Vienna and is easily reachable by public transport. You can get there by either train or bus, compare the connections and journey times for your travel date.

Brno is yet another perfect Central European city, with pastel houses, charming squares and lanes and impressive churches. Be sure to go up to the Spilberk Castle hill to enjoy a beautiful panorama of the city, the castle itself is nice too.

Brno is also home to the UNESCO-listed modernist Villa Tugendhat. If seeing the interior is a priority, check ticket availability before choosing your travel date.

Brno has a large population of students and is one of the most vibrant cities in the region. You can find numerous cafes, pubs and restaurants that are busy all day long. While Brno deserves more than a day, it is a perfect side trip from Vienna.

Budapest, Hungary

Budapest offers far more than a hurried visit can cover. We would favour an overnight stay; if you choose a day trip, pick a small area or one main experience and check that the return journey leaves enough time to enjoy it.

Visit one of the famous thermal baths for some much-needed relaxation in Budapest.  Choose your bath only after checking the operator’s opening information, ticket conditions and age restrictions. Do not assume every bath mentioned in an older guide is open.

The Danube separates Buda and Pest. Fisherman’s Bastion and Buda Castle are on the Buda side; the Hungarian Parliament building is on the Pest side. Choose a manageable group of sights rather than trying to cross the city repeatedly.

In Pest, you can visit the Terror House, Dohány Street Synagogue, or one of the famous ruin bars.

Budapest has enough to fill several days. Choose a few priorities and leave the rest for a return visit.

Contribution: Samantha, The Wandering Wanderluster

Český Krumlov, Czechia

Prague, Vienna and Budapest is the most popular Central European itinerary for many travelers. While there are hundreds of reasons to spend all your time in these three cultural cities, there are hundreds of reasons to also spend time outside them, and Český Krumlov is one of them.

Located in the south of The Czech Republic, Český Krumlov is one of the country’s most beautiful, small fairy-tale towns and many tourists flock here every year to visit its cobbled streets, pastel colored houses and grand castle. Because of its convenient location close to the Austrian border, Český Krumlov is a popular stopover destination for those traveling between Prague and Vienna, but we recommend giving it an overnight stay rather than treating it as an easy day trip.

There are many things to do in Český Krumlov and you can visit all year around. Explore the castle and its beautiful gardens where you’ll find the best view over Český Krumlov and the u-shaped Vltava River that wraps around the historic centre that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

In the summer, you can rent a raft and even set off on an adventure down the Vltava River! If you visit in December, you may even be lucky enough to see Český Krumlov covered in snow and visit its popular Christmas Markets.

Trip planning: Treat Český Krumlov as an overnight break or a planned stop between cities. Compare public transport and shuttle options for your date, including changes and the return journey; the old drive-time estimate is not a reliable door-to-door allowance.

Contribution: Karolina, Travel Poland

Cieszyn, Poland

Cieszyn sits on the Polish side of the border with Český Těšín in Czechia. Its borderland history and compact historic centre make it an interesting longer excursion, but we would not recommend it as a quick outing from Vienna.

A tour of this small town, however, still shows a lot of its Austrian roots in the form of its picturesque Market Square, which is surrounded by colorful buildings and cafes that serve amazing coffees. Not far, you will find the Hapsburg’s former hunting palace, which is now used by the National Music School and a major design center.

The Three Brothers Well is associated with a local founding legend. Castle Hill offers another way into the town’s history, with its surviving rotunda and tower.

The town’s food and drink reflect its borderland setting. Leave time for a meal and a wander around the centre rather than treating it as a brief stop on a long drive.

Trip planning: Allow an overnight stay for Cieszyn and check the complete route before booking. The earlier motorway reference has been removed rather than used as driving directions.

Graz, Austria

Graz is a lesser-known city in Austria, the second biggest after Vienna.  Named European Cultural Capital in 2003, Graz is a quaint city whose beauty is reason enough alone to plan a visit. 

Graz’s architecture makes a rewarding focus for a visit, from historic streets to more contemporary buildings.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Old Town of Graz boasts beautifully-preserved medieval and Italian renaissance buildings. Hauptplatz is the heart of the city, flanked by the stunning Rathaus (town hall). In the winter months, you can enjoy the magical local Christmas markets, sip some Glühwein and peruse the stalls for beautiful handcrafted items.  Other places of importance include the Schlossberg, Herz Jesu Kirche and Eggenberg Palace. Visit the Graz Clocktower to see one of Austria’s most famous landmarks!

Need a reprieve from the city?  The Austrian Sculpture park is found just outside Graz, where you can see more evidence of the area’s penchant for design. Bärenschützklamm gorge and Kesselfallklamm are good options if you’re up for a hike.

If you want to add hiking or winter sports, plan that as a separate part of a longer break. Check seasonal access and transport rather than assuming an outdoor attraction near Graz will fit into a city day trip.

Music lovers can enjoy a night at the Opera House or, for something a little less formal, check out the Royal Garden Jazz Club. 

Trip planning: Graz can suit a longer day out if your connections work well. An overnight stay gives you more room for the museums, food and evening programme.

Contribution: Vaibhav, The Wandering Vegetable

Hallstatt, Austria

If you’ve ever had an aspiration to go to a surreal fairy tale village that’s kissed by stupendous natural beauty, then Hallstatt is the place to be. It is the most popular village in Austria that has to be included in your Europe trip itinerary. It’s located in the Gmunden district, surrounded by the picturesque mountainous region of Salzkammergut. For sure, Hallstatt is definitely a place that needs to be included on your Austria bucket list.

Hallstatt’s lakeside setting is its great appeal. From Vienna, however, we would plan an overnight stay rather than spend much of a single day getting there and back.

Getting there: Hallstatt railway station is across the lake from the village. If your rail itinerary uses that station, include the ferry connection when planning both arrival and departure. Check the whole route, not just the train journey.

Build your visit around a walk through the village and along the lake. Before adding the salt mine or elevated viewpoints, check access, booking requirements and any closure notices through the regional visitor information.

Enjoy walking and exploring the town on foot. The traditional wooden houses with the alpine view just steal your heart and make you want to settle there! The ultimate blockbuster experience, however, is riding a boat on the Hallstatt lake. The views from there are just breathtaking.

Vaibhav’s original food recommendation was Braugasthof Hallstatt. Treat the menu suggestions as a past recommendation and check opening times and menus before making a reservation.

Innsbruck, Austria

Innsbruck is an Austrian city nestled in the Austrian Alps, the capital of Tyrol.  Best known for its idyllic location in the valley of snow-covered mountains, Innsbruck is the perfect winter escape from Vienna. 

Explore the Old Town on foot, a charming and colorful area that serves as the perfect backdrop to catch a street performance and drink some Glühwein while people-watching.

If you happen to be visiting for New Years Eve, the city is bustling with outdoor events and concerts in the squares.

Innsbruck is well known for its sporting opportunities, especially alpine sports, as it is in the Alps and surrounded by mountains. Several ski resorts are situated inside the city territory or within a short distance.

As host of the 1964 and 1976 Winter Olympics, Innsbruck still enjoys the use of the sports complexes at Olympiaworld.  Check out some ice hockey, ice skating, soccer, and music events while you’re visiting!

If you are interested in churches, Hofkirche is home to the tomb monument of Emperor Maximilian I, one of the most important tomb monuments in all of Europe.  While visiting Hofkirche, be sure to check out the larger-than-life bronzes (schwarze Mander) that depict members of different dynasties.

Trip planning: Innsbruck is a weekend or longer break from Vienna. Leave time for the city as well as any mountain outing, and check rail connections for your travel dates.

Klagenfurt, Austria

Klagenfurt, on the eastern shore of the popular Lake Wörthersee, is located in the southern Austrian province of Carinthia.  The city itself offers a variety of activities, ranging from culture, adventure, and relaxation.

Lake Wörthersee is a natural focus for a break in this area. Decide whether you want to spend most of your time by the water or exploring the city, and choose your accommodation accordingly.

Hochosterwitz Castle is an additional excursion to consider. Check transport and opening arrangements separately rather than assuming it is a short hop from wherever you stay.

Pyramidenkogel offers another viewpoint to consider around the lake. Check how to reach it and the available access options before adding it to your itinerary.

Visit the main square, Neuer Platz, to see the iconic Dragon fountain. The beautiful Town Hall is also located in Neuer Platz, where you can find a range of different shops, restaurants and a tree-lined seating area.

Trip planning: We would give Klagenfurt and Wörthersee an overnight stay. Transport routes and journey times can change; compare services for your date rather than relying on the old fixed timing.

Linz, Austria

Linz is a lovely city in Northern Austria located on the Danube River.  It is the third largest in Austria, and has no shortage of things to do to occupy a day or weekend away from Vienna.  The second European Capital of Culture on our list, Linz was given the prestigious designation in 2009. 

Linz is a useful choice if you enjoy museums and contemporary culture. Check the visitor programme for your dates; temporary exhibitions should not be treated as permanent attractions.

Leave time for a slice of Linzer Torte and a coffee. If you want to visit a particular bakery or take part in a baking activity, check availability before travelling.

The Mariendom is an architectural stop to include in your city walk. Check visitor access before going, particularly around services or events.

Trip planning: Linz is one of the options to shortlist for a shorter train outing. Check the return timetable before deciding how many sights to include.

Maribor, Slovenia

Maribor is a Slovenian city nestled in the wine-region hills on the Drava River.  Despite being somewhat more of an industrialized city, the area is surrounded by nature and offers an extraordinary inner city wine culture. 

Pay a visit to Piramida, a vine-covered hill with a small chapel overlooking the city. Until the late 18th century, the old Maribor Castle was once situated on the top of the hill.  Today all that is left are the remains of a well and part of the castle floor plan.  The small chapel, which is dedicated to the Virgin Mary, was built in the early 19th century. 

Maribor has had a long history of winemaking.  As a matter of fact, the city is home to the Old Vine.  The Old Vine is the oldest known producing vine in the world, dating back 400 years. It grows on the front of a building that was once part of the city wall along the Drava River, now affectionately known as The Old Vine House. Today, The Old Vine House serves as a wine museum and tasting room.

Before or after wine tasting, wander around the district of Lent, the oldest neighborhood in Maribor.  Lent is situated along the banks of the Drava and was historically used as a trading port, delivering products to shops and inns.

Lent is home to defensive towers, ancient churches, as well as the city’s old Jewish Quarter.  It is here that you’ll find the best cafes, restaurants and bars in the city.  For picture-perfect views of Lent, head across the river to take your photos.

Trip planning: Give Maribor an overnight stay if you want time for the city and surrounding wine country. Compare complete train or driving routes for your dates.

Olomouc, Czechia

Olomouc is a historic city in Moravia, Czechia. Its squares, monuments and architectural details make it a rewarding place for a slower visit.

In many cities throughout Central Europe you’ll find plague columns that were erected to pay tribute to the victims of outbreaks and merit God for stopping them.  Olomouc is no exception, and its Holy Trinity Column is certainly one of the most resplendent. The column is a source of pride for the city, as it is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Monument. 

Like it’s big sister city, Prague, Olomouc also has an astronomical clock.  Initially built in the 15th century, it had to undergo renovation after damages during WWII.  Since Communism had just landed in Olomouc, the clock was renovated in the social realist style. Laborers replace saints, and the birthdays of both Lenin and Stalin are displayed on the dial – as well as the International Day of the Worker. 

While in town, see if you can visit each of Olomouc’s six grandiose fountains, the oldest of which dates back to the late 17th century. 

Trip planning: Olomouc is better approached as an overnight break than a rushed return journey. Allow time for the historic centre, fountains and a relaxed meal.

Contribution: Veronika, Travel Geekery

Prague, Czechia

Prague is a strong choice for a weekend away from Vienna. Plan the journey around an overnight stay rather than treating another capital city as a quick detour.

With a limited visit, start with the Old Town and Charles Bridge, then add other areas if time allows. You will enjoy the city more if you do not have to keep checking the clock for a long return journey.

You can walk from the bus/train station through Wenceslas Square and from there straight into the Old Town Square with its iconic Astronomical Clock. Stroll the little streets of the historical center towards Charles Bridge, another must see in Prague. The view will open onto the Prague Castle, the largest castle complex in the world. These are the top sights you cannot leave out in Prague, especially if it’s your first time in the city of a hundred (some say thousand) spires. Once you’ve seen the main sites, you’ll still have time to check out some of the best hidden gems in Prague.

Whether you visit Prague in winter or summer, you’re sure to fall in love. Bring a toothbrush with you, in case you like it so much that you’ll want to stay overnight.

Contribution: Nadine, Le Long Weekend

Salzburg, Austria

Famous for being the birthplace of Mozart, and the filming location of The Sound of Music’s movie scenes, Salzburg has long held a reputation as a must-visit city in Austria. An overnight stay is the more relaxed choice. A day trip is worth considering only if your transport leaves enough time for the sights you most want to see.

Once you reach Salzburg, there’s plenty to keep you entertained for the day. Walk around the old town, indulge in coffee and cake in the iconic Café Tomaselli, walk up to the magnificent Salzburg Fortress, go shopping in the boutiques and high-end stores, sample homemade schnapps at a distillery, and take a stroll around the hilltop gardens.

Those wanting to up their art appreciation will love the Museum of Modern Art. Music lovers will have their pick of Mozart concerts to enjoy.

Visit Salzburg in winter to see the city at its snow-capped finest. When the Christmas markets turn every square and garden into a magical fairytale land.

Sopron, Hungary

Sopron’s preserved historic centre makes it an appealing Hungarian outing from Vienna. Plan it as a destination in its own right rather than assuming it lies on your chosen train route to Budapest.

Sopron is also a place to explore Hungarian wine. If a tasting is important to your plans, check availability and arrange your transport before booking.

Take time over the Old Town: a short list of sights, lunch and a café stop can be more rewarding than filling every minute.

There are several notable sights to explore in the historic centre.  The Baroque City Square is where you can find the Firewatch Tower, City Hall, Sopron Catholic Church, and Storno House.  The Firewatch Tower offers stunning views from its balcony, as well as views of the Austrian Alps.

If you’re into museums, check out the Pharmacy Museum or the Bakery Museum for something a little more unique.  Or, stay outside at Fertőrákosi Steinbruch, Sopron’s open-air museum.

Leave some unplanned time for the streets around the centre rather than building your visit around a long checklist.

Trip planning: Sopron is an option to compare for a shorter outing. Check the actual train itinerary and return services for your date, including any changes.

Planning Your Trip from Vienna

For an overnight stay, compare the total cost of accommodation and transport before booking. Check luggage storage if you arrive before check-in, and keep your return journey flexible enough for a slower breakfast or one final wander.

With children, choose fewer stops and allow for the journey from your accommodation to the departure station. A short train journey can still become a long day once local transfers are added. Check buggy access and the facilities you need before committing to a route.

Day Trips from Vienna FAQs

Do I need a car?

Compare public transport first for city visits. A car may help with rural stops, but parking and the drive back also take time. Check the complete route for your particular destination.

Can I visit Prague or Hallstatt in a day from Vienna?

It may be possible with a suitable itinerary, but we recommend an overnight stay. The journey can leave little time to enjoy the destination, particularly when local connections are involved.

Which destinations should I compare for a shorter trip?

Start with Bratislava, Brno, Linz and Sopron. Then compare actual services for your date and how long it takes to reach the sights from the arrival station.

Are the same attractions open throughout the year?

Do not assume so. Check seasonal access, closure notices and booking requirements for individual castles, museums, mountain attractions and boat services before travelling.