A selection of incredible day trips from Vienna

Travel time from Vienna: 40 minutes by car or approximately 1 hour by bus.

Essentials to bring: Snacks and water

Insider tip: Consider booking a guided tour of the Carmel Monastery for an in-depth look at its history.

Mayerling offers an ideal escape for nature lovers looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city. This destination is perfect for a tranquil day filled with beautiful scenery. If driving, take the route through the Vienna Woods, where you can find plenty of spots for picnics or leisurely strolls in the forest. Upon arriving in Mayerling, you can visit the historic Carmel Monastery. Alongside its picturesque rural setting, the monastery boasts an intriguing history, being the site where Austria’s Crown Prince Rudolph met his mysterious end in 1889. The monastery welcomes visitors during weekdays in summer and on weekends during the off-season.

Travel time from Vienna: 3 hours by bus, or 2.5 hours by car or train.

Essentials to bring: Your passport

Insider tip: Visit Budapest during the Christmas season to enjoy a variety of festive winter markets.

With its central location, Vienna serves as a fantastic gateway to explore other renowned European cities and experience diverse cultures. One of the most accessible cities from Vienna is Hungary’s capital, Budapest, which you can reach via a direct bus service. The journey typically takes about 3 hours, with travel by car being slightly quicker.

Upon arriving in Budapest, you’ll discover a wealth of cultural and historical attractions. Must-see spots include the enchanting castle spires of the Fisherman’s Bastion, the stunning interiors of St Stephen’s Basilica, and the 3D Gallery Budapest. Don’t miss out on sampling Hungarian dishes at Beerstro 14, a well-rated bistro and steakhouse offering traditional meals like goulash and schnitzel with a gourmet flair.

Travel time from Vienna: 1 hour by car or bus.

What to bring: Comfortable flat shoes for the vineyard tour

Insider tip: Be sure to check out the farm shop after your tasting.

Hollabrunn, nestled in Austria’s Weinviertel wine region, boasts an impressive array of vineyards where visitors can sample local wines. For a delightful experience pairing vintages with regional delicacies, the Weinviertler Heuriger and Farm Shop is an excellent choice. Beer enthusiasts can also enjoy tastings at the Braukuche 35 brewery and take a guided tour to learn about the brewing process.

Travel time from Vienna: 30 minutes by train or about 1 hour and 15 minutes by road.

What to bring: Your bike for exploring local cycling trails

Insider tip: Don’t miss the stunning interior decor inside Sankt Polten Cathedral.

While Vienna offers a wide array of international dining options, for a taste of authentic, traditional dishes, head to the nearby town of Sankt Polten. This historic town is one of the best day trip destinations from Vienna by train, thanks to its direct connecting service. With menus inspired by local ingredients and fresh seasonal produce, restaurants like Gasthaus Nährer and Vinzenz Pauli are ideal for experiencing modern Austrian cuisine. Enjoy your meal paired with local wines and European selections for a complete culinary adventure.