Explore the Best Road Trips in Austria

There’s nothing like hitting the highway in Austria. Driving in this beautiful country provides the flexibility to explore remote corners and experience breathtaking heights, while allowing you to stop, hike, bike, and boat to fully soak in the natural scenery.

Driving through Austria is a pleasure thanks to its well-maintained roads, ample petrol stations, and charging points for electric vehicles. Rest stops and roadside facilities are readily available. The seamless transitions from classical cities and historical towns to sprawling prairies, majestic mountain ranges, and the crystal-clear waters of Austria’s stunning lakes create unforgettable scenic drives.

Top Road Trips in Austria

1. Grossglockner High Alpine Road

Best road trip for high mountain pass scenery
Fusch an der Glocknerstraße, Salzburgerland to Heiligenblut, Carinthia, 48km (30 miles)

This road, constructed in 1935, allows drivers to traverse Austria’s highest mountain pass, offering breathtaking views with 36 hairpin turns that coil up to 2500m (8202ft) above sea level. As you drive through the Hohe Tauern National Park, expect to encounter diverse wildlife, including ibex and golden eagles.

Don’t forget to stop at the Kaiser-Franz-Josefs-Höhe observation deck for panoramic views of the snow-capped Grossglockner summit. Hikers can access various trails from here, making it a great spot for both drivers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Planning Tip: The Grossglockner High Alpine Road is open from May to November. Always check weather conditions before your visit.

2. The Austrian Romantic Road

Best trip for heritage sites and famed lakes
Vienna to Salzburg, 450km (280 miles)

The Austrian Romantic Road is a picturesque route that meanders alongside the Danube River, showcasing a plethora of UNESCO World Heritage sites and historical landmarks. This journey leads you through the wine region, medieval towns, and stunning lakes in the Salzkammergut area.

Planning Tip: To fully appreciate the sights, consider taking a week to explore this beautiful heritage trail at a leisurely pace.

3. South Styrian Wine Road (Südsteirische Weinstraße)

Best trip for cuisine and wine
Ehrenhausen to Leutschach, Styria, 25km (16 miles)

This charming drive through Austria’s largest wine-growing region features rolling hills and picturesque vineyards. Sample local wines, from Sauvignon Blanc to the region’s specialities like Blauer Zweigelt.

Detour: Consider a circular route starting and ending in Graz to experience Austria’s culinary capital.

4. Villach Alpine Road

Best road trip for southern alpine views
Villach-Möltschach to Rosstratte, 16.5km (10 miles)

The Villach Alpine Road offers breathtaking views of the Dobratsch mountain range. At Rosstratte point, enjoy stunning panoramas and explore hiking trails in the oldest nature reserve in Carinthia.

Planning Tip: Consider pairing this trip with a scenic tour of Carinthia’s beautiful lakes.

5. Silvretta High Alpine Road

Best trip to reach westernmost Austria
Galtür, Tirol to Partenen, Vorarlberg, 22km (12 miles)

This stunning drive connects Tyrol’s Paznaun Valley with Vorarlberg. Climb to the Silvretta-Bielerhöhe apex, where numerous activities await, including hiking and fishing, complemented by incredible mountain vistas.

Local Tip: Vintage car enthusiasts can enjoy the annual Silvretta Classic Rally Montafon in July.

Essential Tips for Driving in Austria

1. Be Aware of Toll Charges

Austria has motorway tolls, requiring a Vignette toll sticker displayed. Additionally, certain mountain passes incur extra charges for entry.

2. Familiarize Yourself with Road Rules

In Austria, you drive on the right and overtake on the left. Speed limits are 130km/h on motorways, 100km/h on expressways, and 50km/h in urban areas.

3. Plan for Winter Road Closures

While roads are generally well-maintained, winter weather can impact driving conditions. Prepare for possible closures of high mountain passes during colder months.

4. Pack a Picnic

Whether at rest stops or scenic lookouts, bring a picnic to enjoy the beautiful Austrian landscape without overspending.

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