Vienna & Salzburg by Rail
5-day itinerary

Vienna & Salzburg by Rail

Imperial Cities, Alpine Charm
5Days
2Cities
€€Budget
Apr–Jun, Sep–OctBest time
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Glide between two of Europe's most breathtaking cities on a scenic Austrian train journey, where baroque palaces meet alpine panoramas. Immerse yourself in Mozart's birthplace, imperial grandeur, and world-class coffee house culture across five unforgettable days.

Explore Schönbrunn Palace and its royal gardensWander the fairy-tale Altstadt of SalzburgSip coffee in a legendary Viennese caféDiscover the Hohensalzburg Fortress at sunsetTravel in comfort on the scenic ÖBB rail route

Your day-by-day plan

Day1
Vienna

Arriving in Vienna

Morning: Arrive at Vienna Hauptbahnhof, check into your hotel near the Ringstrasse, and grab a classic Melange coffee at Café Central to settle in.

Afternoon: Stroll the Ringstrasse boulevard, visit the imposing Kunsthistorisches Museum, and admire its world-renowned art collection.

Evening: Dine on Wiener Schnitzel at a traditional Beisl restaurant in the 1st district and take a leisurely walk past the illuminated State Opera.

💡 Buy a 48-hour Vienna City Card for unlimited public transport and museum discounts.
Day2
Vienna

Imperial Vienna

Morning: Spend the morning at Schönbrunn Palace, touring the imperial apartments and climbing to the Gloriette for sweeping city views.

Afternoon: Explore the vibrant Naschmarkt for lunch, browsing stalls of local cheeses, meats, and pastries before visiting the Secession Building.

Evening: Attend an evening concert at the Musikverein or catch a performance at the Vienna State Opera for an unforgettable cultural experience.

💡 Book opera or concert tickets online at least two weeks in advance to secure the best seats at reasonable prices.
Day3
Vienna–Salzburg

Vienna to Salzburg

Morning: Enjoy a final Viennese breakfast at your hotel before checking out and boarding the ÖBB Railjet train to Salzburg, a scenic 2.5-hour ride.

Afternoon: Arrive in Salzburg, drop your bags at your hotel, then explore the charming Getreidegasse shopping lane and Mozart's Birthplace.

Evening: Cross the Salzach River to Linzergasse for dinner at a cozy Austrian tavern and enjoy views of the illuminated fortress above.

💡 Book your ÖBB train ticket in advance via the app for Sparschiene fares as low as €19 one way.
Day4
Salzburg

Salzburg Highlights

Morning: Hike or take the funicular up to Hohensalzburg Fortress first thing for panoramic alpine views and a tour of the medieval interior.

Afternoon: Visit the stunning Mirabell Palace and Gardens, then tour the baroque Salzburg Cathedral and Residenz Palace in the historic centre.

Evening: Enjoy a Sound of Music–themed dinner show or simply relax with a glass of Grüner Veltliner at a wine bar in the Altstadt.

💡 The Salzburg Card covers all major attractions and public transport — great value if you plan to visit more than three sights.
Day5
Salzburg

Day Trip & Departure

Morning: Take an early morning day trip to Hallstatt or the Salzkammergut lake district by regional train for stunning alpine scenery.

Afternoon: Return to Salzburg for a final lunch, pick up Mozart Kugeln chocolates as souvenirs, and collect your luggage from the hotel.

Evening: Board your return train to Vienna or onward connection, reflecting on five days of imperial culture and alpine beauty.

💡 Hallstatt is extremely popular — arrive before 9am to enjoy the lakeside village before the crowds descend.

Budget estimate

Flights~€120
Hotels~€360
Food~€175
Activities~€95
Transport~€85
Total~€835 per person

Where you'll go

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