In the area surrounding Vienna, there are numerous destinations for a day trip which are well worth visiting.
Vienna is not only the cultural centre of Austria. It is also situated perfectly from a geographical perspective in order to travel to other exciting cities and interesting places on day trips. And you don’t even need a car! All the places that we recommend below are easy to reach by public transport.
Bratislava – only a stone’s throw from Vienna
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Wer Wien sagt, kann getrost auch Bratislava sagen. Bratislava, the Slovakian capital, is indeed only a stone’s throw away from Vienna. After not even a one-hour train journey from Vienna’s Main Railway Station, you will arrive in the Austrian capital’s ”little sister”, which lies directly on the blue Danube.
However, the journey to Bratislava with the Twin City Liner is a much more pleasant experience. This catamaran takes its passengers on a comfortable trip from the centre of Vienna, from Schwedenplatz, to be precise, directly to the city centre of Bratislava. Sailing on the Danube wetlands to Slovakia has to be the most relaxing way to travel. If you decide to take this option, the journey by water itself becomes a highlight. There is much to see in Bratislava – amongst others, the castle (with an amazing view of the Danube and the city), the old town, as well as various restaurants and cafés.
ÖBB: https://www.oebb.at/
Twin City Liner: https://www.twincityliner.com/
Bratislava: https://www.visitbratislava.com/
It is said that “It all begins in Linz”
The capital of Upper Austria, Linz, can be easily reached from Vienna by train with either the Austrian National Railways (the ÖBB) or the Westbahn (a private rail company). In just over an hour, you can be in the so-called “Steel City”, a term which refers to the industry which is still to be found in Linz where steel has been produced for centuries.
But Linz has much more to offer. Above all, the cultural life in the city is very impressive and is every bit as good as in Vienna. For example, the ARD Electronica Center, which is open all year round, focuses on the latest trends and the future of mankind. There is artwork from the 20th century in the impressive Lentos Museum, which is situated directly on the Danube. Definitely worth a visit!
Furthermore, a new hotspot has developed in the former Tobacco Factory in Linz. Previously, the Austrian Tobacco Company produced its goods here but for a few years now, young entrepreneurs and trendy bars and restaurants have found a home here. Events and concerts take place here regularly.
Westbahn: https://westbahn.at/
Lentos: http://www.lentos.at
ARS: https://www.aec.at/news/
Tabakfabrik: https://tabakfabrik-linz.at/
The Wachau – UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site and a popular destination for a day trip
In the German-speaking world, the Wachau is known from numerous old, nostalgic films from the 1950s. And even today this wonderful landscape, with its charming villages, is one of the most popular destinations for a day trip for both tourists and Austrians. From Vienna, it is easiest to explore the Wachau – a World Cultural Heritage Site – by boat.
The most suitable is offered by the boats of the DDSG (Donau Dampfschifffahrts Gesellschaft, the Danube Steamship Company) whose tours begin in the 2nd district near the Reichsbrücke. From March to November, three boats travel daily on the Danube. There are also special DDSG packages, which offer, for example, snacks or dinner on board, a Captain’s menu or wine tasting.
DDSG: https://www.ddsg-blue-danube.at
Graz – The vibrating metropolis on the River Mur
Graz is one of the largest cities in Austria. The metropolis on the River Mur can be reached after a two and a half hour bus or train journey from Vienna. The city is definitely worth a visit, especially in the warmer months.
Graz has a flourishing art and culinary scene. A further highlight is a visit to the Uhrturm (the Clock Tower) on the city’s Schlossberg. No other place will provide you with such a wonderful view of the city with its characteristic red shingle roofs. The pedestrian area in the city centre is simply perfect for shopping or just strolling around while the Main Square is the place to go to eat and drink.
Art lovers will discover that Graz also offers a varied programme. Mention has to be made of the Kunsthaus Graz in particular and not only because of the culinary delights on offer and the unique architecture of the building. The exhibitions are definitely worth seeing. The focus is on world-class national and international art
Graz: https://www.graztourismus.at
Flixbus: https://www.flixbus.at
Kunsthaus Graz: https://www.museum-joanneum.at/kunsthaus-graz
If you are planning to stay in Vienna for a few days, why not plan to visit some of the other highlights which Austria has to offer?