Vienna, the capital city of Austria, is a popular tourist destination known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture. However, many other cities within a 300km radius of Vienna are also worth visiting. From charming towns to cosmopolitan cities, there is no shortage of places to explore. In this article, we will highlight five cities that are definitely worth adding to your itinerary when visiting Vienna. Whether you’re looking for breathtaking landscapes, rich history, or vibrant cultural scenes, these cities have something for everyone. So, let’s start exploring!
Five cities worth visiting within a 300km radius of Vienna.
Salzburg
Salzburg is worth visiting on a day trip from Vienna, as it is one of the most beautiful cities in Austria and rich in history, culture, and stunning architecture. Salzburg is located approximately 300km west of Vienna, making it a perfect destination for a day trip.
Salzburg is best known as the birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, one of the most celebrated composers in history. Visitors can explore Mozart’s birthplace and childhood home, which have been turned into museums. The city is also home to many other historic landmarks, including the Hohensalzburg Fortress, which overlooks the city from a hilltop, and Mirabell Palace and Gardens, which are known for their stunning baroque architecture.
In addition to its historic landmarks, Salzburg is also known for its beautiful Old Town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can stroll along the narrow streets, admire the colorful buildings, and take in the city’s charming atmosphere. The Old Town is also home to many quaint cafes and restaurants, where visitors can enjoy traditional Austrian cuisine and local specialties.
Prague
Prague offers a unique blend of history, culture, and stunning architecture. Prague is located approximately 300km north of Vienna, meaning that you can get there within a few hours of driving from Vienna.
Prague is known for its stunning Gothic and Baroque architecture, with attractions like the Charles Bridge, Prague Castle, and Old Town Square being among the most iconic landmarks in the city. Visitors can also explore the Jewish Quarter, which is home to many historic synagogues and museums, or take a stroll along the Vltava River, which offers stunning views of the city.
Prague is also known for its vibrant cultural scene, with many museums, galleries, and theaters to explore. Visitors can check out the National Museum, the Museum of Decorative Arts, or catch a show at the National Theatre.
Another highlight of Prague is the Czech cuisine which you can eat at one of the many local restaurants, or sample some of the famous Czech beer at a local brewery or beer garden.
Bratislava
Bratislava is only 60km east of Vienna, making visiting very easy. There are boats connecting the cities, but you can also travel to Bratislava by train or bus or by car.
The city is known for its charming medieval old town, which is filled with colorful buildings, cobblestone streets, and beautiful historic landmarks. Visitors can explore attractions like Bratislava Castle, St. Martin’s Cathedral, and Michael’s Gate, which are all located within the old town.
Bratislava has many museums, galleries, and theaters to explore. Visitors can check out the Slovak National Museum, the Bratislava City Gallery, or catch a show at the Slovak National Theater.
Another highlight of Bratislava is its beautiful location along the Danube River. Visitors can take a stroll along the riverfront promenade, enjoy a relaxing river cruise, or take in the stunning views of the city from the UFO Observation Deck, which is located on the top of the iconic Nový Most bridge.
Budapest
The distance between Vienna and Budapest is approximately 240km, making it a convenient destination for a day trip from Vienna.
Budapest is a beautiful city that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and stunning architecture. Visitors can explore attractions like the Hungarian Parliament Building, Buda Castle, and Fisherman’s Bastion, which are all located within the historic Castle District.
Budapest is also known for its beautiful thermal baths, which are popular with both tourists and locals alike. Visitors can soak in the natural hot springs at iconic baths like the Széchenyi Thermal Bath, Gellért Thermal Bath, or Rudas Thermal Bath.
Do not forget about the Hungarian cuisine as you visit Hungary. Budapest has many local restaurants serving traditional Hungarian dishes like goulash, chimney cake, and paprika chicken. If you have time, you can also visit a vineyard near Budapest or maybe visit Pannonhalma which is very close to the city of Györ (which you pass by as you travel between Vienna and Budapest).
Graz
The distance between Graz and Vienna is approximately 200km, and it takes around 2.5 hours to drive by car or 2 hours by train. Graz is the second-largest city in Austria and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, making it a popular destination for tourists visiting the country.
Graz is known for its stunning architecture, particularly in the historic old town, which is filled with beautiful buildings, narrow streets, and charming courtyards. Visitors can explore attractions like the Graz Cathedral, the Landhaus courtyard, the Graz Clock Tower, and the Schlossberg hill, which offers stunning views of the city.
Graz is also home to many museums and galleries, including the Styrian Armoury, the Kunsthaus Graz, and the Universalmuseum Joanneum, which houses a variety of art and natural history exhibits.
Another highlight of Graz is its vibrant food and drink scene. Many local restaurants serve traditional Styrian dishes like pumpkin seed oil, Styrian apple strudel, and roasted pork with sauerkraut. Visitors can also sample some of the region’s famous wines at a local vineyard or wine bar.
Don’t forget to spend some time in Vienna.
In this article, we have told you why it is worth visiting Graz, Budapest, Bratislava, Salzburg, and Prague. Do not forget to walk up and down the streets of Vienna as well. The city has beautiful attractions waiting for you and hidden gems you don’t discover unless you spend time just walking around the city.
You can read more about Vienna’s most famous attractions, activities, museums, and programs in our Vienna Guide. If you want information about ongoing and upcoming programs in Vienna, find out what’s happening in Vienna in our calendar.
