Start your journey in Vienna, where you can rent a car to begin an unforgettable road trip. It’s important to have an international driving permit, as most rental companies won’t allow you to rent a vehicle without one. Once you arrive in the city center, one hotel option is “The Amarius,” where you can check in and settle down before starting your tour of this beautiful and historic city.
Begin your tour on foot to get a better feel for the city. Your first stop can be the Belvedere Museum, where you’ll find an impressive collection of paintings. Outside the museum, you can also enjoy a peaceful stroll through the beautiful gardens, perfect for taking in the scenery and relaxing before continuing your adventure.
If you start feeling a bit hungry, you definitely have to try the famous Sacher Torte—a must when in Vienna. Be sure to make a reservation in advance, as the place is usually packed. This iconic dessert is a rich dark chocolate cake with a thin layer of apricot jam, typically served with a side of whipped cream. It’s the perfect treat to recharge before continuing your exploration.
Continue your walk to Michaelerplatz, where you’ll find the Sisi Museum. Here, you can discover a fascinating collection of jewels and learn more about the life and story of Empress Elisabeth, known as Sisi. The museum offers a glimpse into her personal world, showcasing both her elegance and the challenges she faced during her reign. Just a few steps away, within the same Hofburg Palace complex, you’ll find the Weltmuseum Wien, home to the famous Penacho de Moctezuma—a breathtaking piece of Aztec history that connects Mexico to Vienna in the most unexpected way. As you continue exploring, don’t miss the chance to visit the iconic Vienna State Opera. It’s one of the most renowned opera houses in the world, and if you’re lucky, you might be able to attend a performance. However, shows are only available during certain seasons of the year, so it’s essential to check the schedule in advance and book tickets early.
For your second day, visit the magnificent Schönbrunn Palace, where you can easily spend several hours exploring. The palace grounds are vast and beautifully maintained, featuring stunning gardens perfect for a leisurely stroll. You’ll also find a zoo—the oldest in the world—a fun maze to get lost in, and several elegant fountains scattered throughout the park. It’s a perfect spot to soak in the grandeur of Vienna’s imperial past while enjoying nature and unique attractions. Movie lovers might also recognize Schönbrunn from a brief appearance in The Sound of Music, making it a fun stop for fans of the classic film.
End your day with a relaxing walk near St. Stephen’s Cathedral, wandering through the charming streets of Graben and Goldschmiedgasse. These lively areas are filled with all kinds of shops and cozy spots to grab dinner. For a delightful evening meal, I recommend Konditorei Oberlaa—a lovely place known for its delicious Austrian dishes and desserts, perfect to close out your first day in Vienna on a sweet note.
For lunch, you can’t miss trying Vienna’s famous “hotdogs” at Bitzinger Würstelstand. It’s a local favorite where you can choose from a variety of sausages, served in freshly baked buns with delicious toppings—perfect for a quick yet tasty meal. After lunch, you have two options: continue exploring the city or head to your next destination, Hallstatt. The drive takes about 3 hours and 24 minutes, so if you choose to leave in the afternoon, you’ll arrive just in time to enjoy the peaceful evening atmosphere of this charming lakeside village.
