Vienna is a beautiful city with plenty to see and do, but sometimes you just need a break or a change. If you’re looking for some ideas for day trips from Vienna, you’re in luck. There are plenty of great options, no matter what kind of traveller you are. So whether you’re interested in hiking in the mountains, checking out some pretty villages, or exploring some charming castles, there’s something for everyone. So grab your sunscreen and your sense of adventure and get ready to explore!

1- Bratislava, Slovakia

Though often overshadowed by its more famous neighbour Vienna, the Slovakian capital of Bratislava is well worth a day trip. Located just an hour away by train, Bratislava offers a charming mix of old and new. Visitors can explore the mediaeval Old Town, stroll along the Danube River, or visit one of the many museums and galleries. And no trip to Bratislava would be complete without trying some of the local specialties, like halusky (potato dumplings) or parenica (a type of sausage). So whether you’re looking for history or cuisine, Bratislava is sure to please.

How far is it? 1 hour by train and 57 minutes by car

Best way to get there: Train. There are also some day Danube cruises that take you from Vienna to Bratislava and back.

2- Budapest, Hungary

There’s something about Budapest that just oozes old-world charm. Maybe it’s the baroque architecture of the Parliament building, or the neo-gothic spires of Matthias Church. Or perhaps it’s the quaint cobbled streets lined with cafes and bakeries, where you can enjoy a cup of coffee and watch the world go by. Whatever the reason, there’s no denying that Budapest is a city with plenty of character. And that’s not even mentioning the amazing food scene, which offers everything from traditional Hungarian goulash to delicious pastries. 

Budapest is often thought of as a day trip from Vienna, but this vibrant city has enough to keep visitors entertained for days. From the stunning architecture of the Parliament Building to the delicious food, there is something for everyone in Budapest. The city is also home to a number of thermal baths, perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing. If you’re looking for a city with history, culture, and plenty of things to do, then Budapest is definitely worth a visit.

How far is it? 2 hours and 30 minutes by train and car

Best way to get there: Train

3- Hallstatt, Austria

Hallstatt is a small town in Austria with a population of less than 1000. It is in fact so small that you can easily explore it in a day. It is located in the Salzkammergut region, and is known for its picturesque setting and stunning views. The town has a long history, dating back to the Bronze Age, and was an important trading centre in the Middle Ages. Today, it is a popular tourist destination, and its small size means that it is easy to explore on foot. 

There are plenty of activities and attractions to keep you busy in Hallstatt. It is one of the best places to visit in all of Austria. There’s Lake Hallstatt, for starters, which is perfect for swimming in during the summer months. You can also take a cable car up to the Skywalk, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. And of course, no visit to Hallstatt would be complete without exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the salt mines.Whether you are taking in the views from the top of the hill or admiring the architecture of the old buildings, Hallstatt is sure to take your breath away.

How far is it? 3 hours and 30 minutes by car and 3 hours and 40 minutes by train

Best way to get there: Train and car are equally good but you have to change train twice

4- Cesky Krumlov, Czech Republic

If you’re looking for a break from the hustle and bustle of city life, Cesky Krumlov is the perfect spot. This small town in the Czech Republic is situated along the Vltava River, and it boasts a mediaeval castle, quaint cobbled streets, and a number of beautiful parks. Visitors can explore the castle grounds, wander through the Old Town, or simply relax in one of the many cafes and restaurants. While Cesky Krumlov may not be as well-known as some other European destinations, it’s definitely worth a visit.

How far is it? 2 hours and 57 minutes by car

Best way to get there: Car

5- Linz, Austria

Linz may not be the first city that comes to mind when planning a day trip from Vienna, but this charming Austrian town has a lot to offer. Just a short train ride from the capital, Linz is located on the banks of the Danube River and is surrounded by scenic hiking trails. The city’s pedestrian-friendly centre is home to a number of well-preserved historic buildings, including the Gothic Linz Cathedral and the Palais Augarten, a Baroque palace that now houses an art museum. Linz is also known for its vibrant nightlife and lively music scene, making it the perfect place to enjoy a few drinks after a day of sightseeing. Whether you’re interested in history or just looking for a fun place to spend a day outside of Vienna, Linz is definitely worth a visit.

How far is it? 1 hour and 7 minutes by train

Best way to get there: Train

6- Salzburg, Austria

While Vienna may be the capital of Austria, Salzburg is definitely the jewel of the country. Just a short day trip from Vienna, Salzburg is a picturesque city that is steeped in history and culture. From the soaring spires of its Gothic cathedral to the quaint cobblestone streets of its old town, Salzburg is a veritable fairy tale come to life. And of course, no visit to Salzburg would be complete without taking in a performance of The Sound of Music. So whether you’re looking for history, culture, or just a fun day trip, be sure to add Salzburg to your travel plans.

How far is it? 2 hours and 15 minutes by train

Best way to get there: Train

7- Wachau valley, Austria

The Wachau valley is a beautiful place to visit, and the Melk abbey is one of its most popular attractions. This gorgeous Benedictine abbey is home to a renowned library, and its grounds offer stunning views of the surrounding valley. Visitors can also enjoy a boat tour of the Danube River or take a hike through the vineyards. In addition to its natural beauty, the Wachau valley is also steeped in history. The Melk abbey was founded in the 11th century, and the region has been inhabited for centuries. As a result, there are numerous historical sites to explore, making the Wachau valley a truly fascinating place to visit. The current abbey was built in 1702.

How far is it? 1 hour and 6 minutes by train

Best way to get there: Train

8- Vienna Woods, Austria

The Vienna Woods are a beloved natural landmark in Austria’s capital city. The woods are a popular destination for hiking, picnicking, and other outdoor activities. The Vienna Woods have long been a place of romance and intrigue. Today, the Woods are a protected area, and visitors can enjoy their beauty while knowing that they’re helping to preserve an important piece of Austria’s heritage. There are several things you can see here:

• Kahlenberg Church is a beautiful Baroque-style church located in Vienna, Austria. The church was built in the early 18th century and is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Visitors to Kahlenberg Church can admire its stunning exterior, which features an ornate facade and a towering steeple. Inside, the church is just as impressive, with a grandiose nave and an intricate altar. Kahlenberg Church is also famous for its acoustics, which are said to be some of the best in Vienna. Whether you’re admiring its architecture or listening to a concert, Kahlenberg Church is sure to leave a lasting impression.

• The Cistercian Abbey of Heiligenkreuz is one of the most beautiful and historic sites in Austria. Founded in 1133, the Abbey was once the largest and most powerful monastery in the region. Today, it is a popular tourist destination, known for its stunning architecture and idyllic setting. Visitors can explore the Abbey’s sprawling grounds, which include a 12th-century Romanesque church, a magnificent cloister, and a tranquil pond. They can also learn about the Abbey’s rich history through its museum and library, which house a wealth of artefacts and manuscripts. Whether you’re looking to admire its splendour or to soak up some history, the Cistercian Abbey of Heiligenkreuz is sure to impress.

• Seegrotte Vienna is a man-made cave located in Austria. The cave was created in the early 20th century as a place to store wine. Today, it is a popular tourist destination, and visitors can take boat rides through the caverns or explore them on foot. The cave is also home to a species of blind fish, which can only be found in Seegrotte Vienna. Although the cave is now open to the public, it still has a bit of an otherworldly feel, and it’s easy to imagine how it could have been used as a Secret hideout during World War II. Whether you’re interested in history or just looking for a unique experience, Seegrotte Vienna is definitely worth a visit.

How far is it? 53 minutes by car

Best way to get there: Car. Since it is just outside Vienna, you can rent a car using a service such as ShareNow that lets you rent by the hour instead of renting one for the whole day

9- Graz, Austria

 If you’re looking for a day trip from Vienna, consider heading to Graz. This charming city is known for its beautiful architecture, lively cafes and relaxed atmosphere. Situated at the foot of the Alps, Graz is also a great base for exploring the surrounding mountains. And with plenty of museums, art galleries and historical sites to discover, you’ll never be short on things to do. So whether you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city or simply want to explore somewhere new, Graz is definitely worth a visit.

How far is it? 2 hours and 28 minutes by train

Best way to get there: Train

10- Ljubljana, Slovenia

Ljubljana is a beautiful city nestled in the heart of Slovenia. Though it’s often overshadowed by its larger neighbours (we’re looking at you, Vienna), Ljubljana is definitely worth a visit. The city centre is compact and easily navigable, making it perfect for a day trip. And unlike Vienna, Ljubljana isn’t overcrowded with tourists. So if you’re looking for a charming European city with fewer crowds, add Ljubljana to your list. You won’t be disappointed! The only constraint is that it is a 4 hour drive each way. Therefore, a day trip here should ideally be reserved for the summer months when you can take advantage of the long days.

How far is it? 4 hours by car

Best way to get there: Car

11- Brno, Czech Republic

As the second largest city in the Czech Republic, Brno has a lot to offer visitors. From its rich history dating back to the Middle Ages to its vibrant nightlife, there is something for everyone in this lively city. Perhaps one of the most interesting things about Brno is its architecture. The city is home to a number of beautiful historical buildings, as well as a number of modern landmarks. The mix of old and new makes for a fascinating walking tour of the city.  There’s no shortage of things to do in Brno. For history buffs, there’s plenty to explore, from the Old Town Hall to the Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul. 

For those who prefer a more active vacation, there are plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, and even water sports. And of course, no trip to Brno would be complete without sampling some of the local cuisine. From hearty Czech dishes to lighter fare, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So whether you’re looking for a relaxing break or an action-packed adventure, Brno is the perfect destination. So whether you’re looking for culture, nightlife or just good food and drink, Brno is the perfect destination.

How far is it? 1 hour and 28 minutes by train

Best way to get there: Train

12- Sopron, Hungary

Sopron is a small city in Hungary with a population of just over 30,000 people. It’s located in the northwest part of the country, close to the Austrian border. The city is most famous for its role in the Hungarian Revolution of 1848, when it was the site of the famous “Bloody Monday” riots. Today, Sopron is a peaceful and beautiful city, with a mediaeval centre and a lively pedestrian zone. The city is also home to a number of interesting museums, including the Museum of Hungarian Folk Architecture and the Ferenc Liszt Memorial Museum. If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path destination in Hungary, Sopron is definitely worth a visit.

How far is it? 1 hour by train

Best way to get there: Train

13- Gyor, Hungary

Gyor is a historic city in Hungary that is full of things to do. For history buffs, there are plenty of old buildings and museums to explore. The city centre is also a great place to shop and eat, and there are plenty of parks and green spaces to enjoy. For those who want to get out and about, there are plenty of activities to choose from, including hiking, biking, and kayaking. And, of course, no visit to Gyor would be complete without taking a dip in the thermal baths! Whether you’re looking for culture or relaxation, Gyor has something for everyone.

How far is it? 1 hour 11 minutes by train

Best way to get there: Train

14- Maribor, Slovenia

There’s more to Slovenia than just Ljubljana. Just a short day trip from Vienna, Maribor is the country’s second-largest city and an interesting place to explore. Set amid picturesque vineyards, Maribor has a long history dating back to the Middle Ages. These days, it’s known for its lively university scene and vibrant nightlife. There are plenty of things to see and do in Maribor, from strolling through the old town to visiting one of the many museums or galleries. And of course, no visit would be complete without sampling some of the local wine. Whether you’re looking for a day of culture or a night on the town, Maribor is definitely worth a visit.

How far is it? 2 hours and 46 minutes by car

Best way to get there: Car