Where to go from Vienna for 1 day on your own – route, photo, description, map
If you are planning a trip to the capital of Austria, then you will have a unique opportunity to get acquainted not only with its amazing sights, but also see the cultural and historical monuments of the Viennese environs and other European cities. Many unforgettable trips are organized throughout the tourist season. We will tell you where you can go from Vienna for one day on your own.
Franzensburg Castle
Those who watched an exciting and romantic film about Empress Sisi (Franz's wife), beloved by the Austrians, remember the episodes of her walk through the beautiful old Laxenburg park. In the 13th century the park space served as a royal hunting ground, and in the 19th century. the Romantic emperor ordered to build an unusual castle here as a sign of respect for the knightly past of his ancestors. During your acquaintance with the neo-Gothic architectural masterpiece, you will hear the history of the construction of the castle, the story of the romantic love of Sisi and Franz, and you will see a lot of interesting things.
Surrounded by truly magnificent floral landscapes, the building rises like a precious box: bright stained-glass windows of Gothic windows, expressive spiers and turrets, many marble sculptures look fabulous. Inside the castle there is a rich collection of household items and works of applied medieval art. In the park, one cannot but admire the authentic graceful pavilions, a picturesque island and a small lake with swans and landscape paintings.
Kreuzenstein Castle
Viewers of the outrageous Hollywood thriller The Time of the Witches should have remembered the ancient knight's castle, where the main episodes of the film were filmed. Its Gothic turrets, crenellated walls, and drawbridge chain bridge are vivid signs of medieval fortresses suggesting the authenticity of a grandiose structure. However, the history of the castle (13th century) indicates that it was blown up by the Swedish conquerors in the 17th century. and restored in the 19th century. Counts Wilczek, who understood the historical significance of the fortress.
Traveling through the “mazes” of Kreuzenstein is a fascinating immersion in the atmosphere of medieval life. Everything is interesting here: powerful walls, arrangement of the courtyard and interiors. A solid exposition with a large set of ancient weapons, a hall of knightly armor and symbols is amazing. The huge wooden kitchen table, which was once a bridge on the river, is surprising. Salzburg. During the tour, the guide tells a lot of interesting things about the history of the castle, including legends about its ghosts.
Klosterneuburg
An undoubted success for tourists will be a trip to an incredibly beautiful ancient town (900 years old) in the federal state of Lower Austria – Klosterneuburg. Its historical center is a kind of open-air museum of the Middle Ages, each house, each building of which is a beautiful architectural monument. The central square with the Plague Column, statues of saints and great personalities of the past are true testimonies of the glorious and tragic past. The main object of inspection is the amazing Augustinian monastery. At the entrance is the church of St. Mary, captivating the eye with its gothic beauty.
As if carved from ivory by a virtuoso chisel, openwork towers with pointed domes, wall ornaments, graceful vaults make the Romanesque basilica a work of art of religious architecture. Inside the church there is a unique organ (a valuable rarity of 1642). Flower “carpets”, fountains and monuments adorn the territory of the monastery. In 3 halls of his “treasury” magnificent samples of jewelry are displayed, including 2 state crowns; exclusive royal outfits adorned with precious stones and gold. In the monastery, which is still operating, you can see a lot of interesting things.
Grafenegg Castle
In Lower Austria, there is another real miracle of architecture – Grafenegg Castle. It is located in the midst of a picturesque pompous park, as if hiding under the shade of sprawling trees, but when it opens in all its glory, it makes you freeze in admiration before the majestic beauty of the facades. It is difficult to describe this architectural and artistic masterpiece in words, to see it is an indisputable success! Erected in the 14th century. The palace complex embodies the architectural elements of the past centuries – from the late Gothic, Biedermeier, Renaissance and Neo-Gothic.
The current charmingly romantic appearance of the palace was given by the reconstruction of 1840-72, carried out by the new owners, the Counts Breuners. Cassette wooden ceilings, carved precious wood panels, intricately decorated fireplaces, artistic wall paintings, graceful statues, paintings and portraits, and rare furniture create an extraordinary magnificence of the interiors. Everything here is admirable, visiting the castle is an aesthetic pleasure.
Liechtenstein Castle
For those who did not know about the existence of the tiny state of Liechtenstein before, a trip here will be especially interesting. The Principality-Castle of Liechtenstein is located in the small town of Maria Enzersdorf, located on the outskirts of the famous Vienna Woods. The history of the ancient castle, erected by the founder of the princely dynasty, began in 1135.
The past epochs more than once left traces of destruction and decline on the long-suffering structure, but by the beginning of the 19th century. the family castle was thoroughly recreated and restored again after the 2nd World War, which caused him considerable damage. An excursion to a unique dwarf state is not only an inspection of the most valuable monument of early architecture, but also an acquaintance with the amazing history of the Liechtenstein dynasty, their role in the formation of Austria, with the sad and joyful events of a noble family.
The road to the rarity lies among the irresistible natural beauties, and the castle itself stands proudly on a rocky hill. Inside, which can only be accessed as part of a group with a guide, everyone is in for a strong impression of ancient interiors restored from authentic sketches and drawings. The resurrected era of the 12th century, having expanded the time frame, visibly appears before the astonished gaze of visitors, exciting their souls and hearts.
Village of Grinzing
After the majestic beauty of the Viennese buildings, a trip to the ancient village of Grinzing, in fact, a small, cozy town, will become an immersion in the patriarchal atmosphere of rural life. From the 17th century Grinzing was an independent settlement located near the Vienna Woods, and then became part of Vienna, retaining its medieval authenticity in its appearance. Vine growers and winemakers live here, making excellent wines, famous not only in Austria, but also abroad.
Once on the narrow clean streets of the town, you immediately feel a sweet, charming patriarchy, “living” in lovely “gingerbread-toy” houses, decorated with flower pots; in ancient arches covered with grapes and ivy and forged lanterns; cozy courtyards; in the gray cobblestone sidewalks. The main attraction of Grinzig is a magnificent temple of late Gothic architecture in the very center of the town. At the end of an unforgettable walk, you can relax in one of the many heurigers (local restaurant), sitting at a wooden table with a glass of delicious wine and a delicious snack, as it was in the days of Schubert, Beethoven, Gogol, Mahler and others.
Wachau Valley
Not to visit the unusually picturesque Danube valley of the Wachau means to deprive yourself of the pleasure of seeing the truly unearthly beauty of diverse landscapes, against which cultural and historical monuments are located. The results of archaeological excavations in the vicinity of the cities of Melk and Krems prove that people settled in these blessed places as early as the Neolithic era. The inhabitants of the valley grow grapes and fruits.
Worthy of attention is the bewitching spectacle of the majestic Danube, smoothly carrying its waters among the wooded banks. It is impossible not to admire the green hills of Dunkensteilwald and high cliffs, looking up, even rows of vineyards and the walls of the ancient monasteries of Melk and Göttweig. A visit to Dürnstein Castle will be an impressive highlight of the trip, and in general, an excursion to the valley will provide an opportunity to see how carefully the Austrians treat nature and cherish the monuments of the past. Wachau is a UNESCO World Heritage Site (since 2000).
Vienna Woods
The priceless wealth of Austria – oak and beech forests, called the Vienna Woods, captured in Strauss's waltzes, is located in the vicinity of Vienna on the square. 1250 km “Green lungs” of the Austrian capital, formed over millions of years under the influence of geological and climatic factors, have a unique flora and fauna. The Vienna Woods was popular among the Celtic tribes, and today this fabulously beautiful “mini-state” is a favorite vacation spot for the Viennese and tourists.
To see the most important sights of the Vienna Woods, you need to visit it with a guide. Along the way, he will introduce you to interesting historical facts, show you the Schubert House, the magnificent Liechtenstein Castle and other objects. A walk along the cozy alleys, among the green hills, will lead to the ruins of an ancient fortress (11th century) on Mount Leopoldsberg. From the top you can endlessly admire the incredibly beautiful alpine landscapes. A visit to the resort town of Baden will be a bright final “chord” of the trip.
Melk Abbey
A trip to the small provincial town of Melk, located on the western edge of the Wachau Valley, will introduce you to its amazing sights and give you the most pleasant experience. The ancient buildings of the post office, the city church, the bakery are monuments of medieval architecture that are of interest. It is also good to visit local museums, where unusual exhibits are presented, to visit the source of St. Koloman, whose day is celebrated annually on 13. 10.
On Trinity Day, the town celebrates with baroque art festivals. But the most attractive unique object of Melk is an old Benedictine monastery. The beautifully decorated entrance walls of the former residence of Margrave Leopold I (1089) greet guests with sculptures of Saints Leopold and Coloman, installed on both sides of the entrance. The descendants of Leopold handed over the fortress-residence to the possession of the Benektine monks.
For 9 centuries there has been an abbey, where monks still live, living according to the charter of St. Benedict. The view of the ancient bastions surrounding the monastery, collections of ancient manuscripts, church regalia and art objects are impressive. It is impossible not to admire the Marble Hall, the imperial staircase, the Church of Saints Peter and Paul, a wonderful park. The monastery library impresses with its decoration, the number of folios and manuscripts.
Creams
The charming old town, located at the confluence of the Krems and Danube rivers, was an important trading post in the Middle Ages. It was in it that Austrian pfennings, called kremsky, were first printed. Surrounded by garden terraces and vineyards, the city captivates with its patriarchal beauty. The unique structure of the city is the Piarstenkirche church, built in the 15th century. on the site of an old Romanesque church. Reconstruction of the facades of the 16th century. created their late Gothic appearance, repeating the appearance of the Vienna Cathedral of St. Stephen.
Baroque decorations, the image of the Virgin Mary by M. Schmidt are impressive in the interior of the temple. It will be interesting to visit the parish church of St. Witt, which is the first example of the Austrian Baroque era. Climbing the medieval Powder Tower will allow you to capture with your eyes a magnificent picture of Lower Austria. The Old Town Hall and the Gozzoburg Palace are wonderful architectural monuments of the Renaissance era that will not go unnoticed.
Bratislava
The ancient Czech city, which became in the 21st century. the capital of Slovakia, acquired the status of a popular tourist attraction. In Bratislava, the beauty of the Danube, past eras, captured in medieval castles and palaces, are closely intertwined, and the present – in the modern attributes of a young European capital. The Danube, which cuts the city into 2 parts, makes it very picturesque. The abundance of historical and cultural monuments turns the city into an open-air museum, which has a lot of interesting things. A tour of the city begins with its “heart” – Bratislava Castle, from which Bratislava was born.
This is a monumental fortress castle of the 10th century, located on the Danube cliff, repeatedly rebuilt and restored anew in 1968. Amazing views of the Danube valley open from its observation platforms. The oldest building is the Gate of St. Michael were an important fortification of the medieval fortress. At the confluence of the Danube and Moravian waters, there is a no less unique monument of antiquity – Devin Castle, which passed by significant trade routes. An amazing building of our time is the New Bridge, striking with its unusual suspension structure, which has only 1 support, despite its impressive length.
Buy a bus ticket online for 699.00 ₽
Puhberg am Schneberg
Journey to a small resort town, whose name combines the names of 2 mountains, is known as a fair commune – a venue for various fairs. But the last fact is not paramount in choosing a trip. This is an occasion to see a typical alpine village and feel the irresistible provincial beauty of charming landscapes, local household and cultural traditions. A walk along the clean streets will give you the opportunity to admire small houses with beautiful neat facades, with ivy curling along them.
Bakerai (bakery with amazingly delicious bread) will meet in a series of street buildings. In the center of the commune there is a real paradise – a large pond surrounded by green lawns, shady plane trees, oaks and hornbeams. Here you can sit on the shore and watch black swans and ducks, see trout in the clear water column. The local tourist train “Salamander” will take you to the top of the mountain, from where you can see stunning surroundings, where you can go to a small church and pray in front of the sculptural image of the Virgin. The beauty of alpine nature will remain in the imagination for a long time.
Baden
The wonderful resort town of Baden, located in a fertile corner of the Vienna Woods, can boast of its long resort history. Back in the 15th century its thermal springs were popular with the population. In the first half of the 19th century, when Baden became the summer residence of the Austrian emperor, a stream of famous vacationers poured in from all over Europe. The unique charm of a small resort town, living in its shady streets, in luxurious Biederbaier villas, cute cafes and cozy heurigers, embraces from the first steps.
Here, many objects are associated with the names of great composers and musicians. The city church remembers the concerts of the great Mozart, there is a house-museum of Beethoven, who loved to visit Baden in the summer. A memorable place is the Sauerhofe restaurant, whose regular was K. Weber. The spa park is interesting, where concerts of the Strauss father and son were held, and now you can hear performances of various musicians and singers here every day. I. Strauss, working on the famous operetta “The Bat”, meant Baden as the scene of action.
Linz
The third most important city in the country and the capital of Upper Austria – Linz is located on the Danube, between Vienna and Salzburg. Its development began with a border checkpoint that controls the border with Germany (410). The historical past is imprinted in it in old baroque buildings, churches and abbeys, cozy authentic pubs and pubs.
Today the city is a highly developed cultural and tourist center with many theaters and concert halls, with modern modern buildings. The main square of the city on the banks of the Danube is a popular place for tourists: here are the old Town Hall, the Ursulinehorf monastery castle, and the Landhaus government building. In the historical center, the abbeys of Wilhering and St. Florian, the magnificent Catholic Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary, which largely preserved the authenticity of the design in the form of frescoes, beautiful stained-glass windows, and wooden decorations, are of indispensable interest to travelers.
It is impossible to indifferently pass by the monument of medieval baroque architecture – Rosenau Castle. In the vicinity of Linz is the Holzheim Palace, the first information about which appeared in 1075. Despite the fire (18th century), which brought the palace almost complete destruction, it was completely restored to its original form.
Buy a train ticket online for RUB 1,540.00
Hallstadt
In a remote corner of the Austrian Alps, there is a truly unique town of Hallstatt, surrounded by the lake of the same name, on the one hand, and high cliffs, on the other. Despite such an inconvenient location, this place is considered the oldest settlement in Europe. People were attracted here by salt deposits mined here for more than 3 thousand years. As a result of excavations carried out in the 19th century, prehistoric burials (Iron Age) were discovered. As a result of this discovery, an archaeological concept appeared – the Hallstatt culture (900-400 BC). The town of 1,000 people has nowhere to grow due to the acute shortage of land. That is why there is an unusual sight Ossuary in it – a repository of human bones and skulls.
According to a long tradition, people are buried in the ground, and after 10 years their bones are removed from the graves, cleaned, bleached, the skulls are decorated with paintings, indicating their data, and put in a crypt where relatives and tourists come. The amazing beauty of the surrounding landscapes, beautiful pedestrian streets, wonderful buildings look just fabulous. Transport routes are laid in tunnels punched in the rocks. You can leave your cars in the same underground parking lots. A trip to this fantastic place will bring a lot of unforgettable experiences.
Graz
A city that combines the brilliant past of the Habsburg era and successful modernity, Graz has features of the Renaissance, Baroque and Art Nouveau in its architectural appearance. Largely provincial, but not devoid of metropolitan gloss and splendor, the main city of the land of Styria is always happy to show guests many amazing historical and cultural monuments. On the central square Hauptplatz is attracted by the luxurious building of the Town Hall, the Franciscan Church, the Clock Tower with an old bell and an amazing clockwork.
The Kunsthaus Art Museum (2003), housed in an interesting looking futuristic building, hosts temporary exhibitions. The Jesuit Cathedral of St. Egidia, striking with the luxury of interior decoration. A true masterpiece of the Italian Renaissance – the house of the 16th century. with a courtyard surrounded by arcades, Landhaus (concerts and performances take place against its background). The pearl of the Baroque style – Attems Palace and other architectural buildings of the past are an invaluable asset of Graz.
Buy a bus ticket online for RUB 1,149.00
Salzburg
The city, glorified by the brilliant Mozart, cannot but excite the imagination. The beauty of its squares and squares, magnificent palaces and museums delights and captivates, making you think that only here such a creator of music as Mozart could be born. Salzburg (Old Town), along with the outstanding cultural heritage sites of the world, is included in the UNESCO list as the best city in the world. Of undoubted interest is the Old Town – the historical center, where each building is an example of one of the architectural trends, a monument of some era.
Of particular charm is the Cathedral of St. Ruprecht in the Gothic style, where Mozart was baptized, the medieval monastery of St. Peter. The residences of the archbishop (Old and New), the Franciscan Church impress with their appearance. You cannot pass by the famous house where W. A. Mozart was born. Salzburg impresses with its beauty and variety of architectural styles.
Buy a train ticket online for RUB 2,369.00
Budapest
The most beautiful European city of Budapest is deservedly considered the “Pearl of the Danube”. Its location on both sides of the river makes the Hungarian capital a unique, inimitable beauty. The picturesque embankments of Buda and Pest are a favorite place for festivities of residents and tourists, the handsome bridge across the Danube fits well into the city landscape. A rich history of development has left amazing architectural monuments that captivate with ancient charm. “Heart” of Budapest – Sq. Heroes is the focus of sculptural monuments that depict glorious events and great figures of the state.
Two colonnades dedicated to Hungarian heroes house the majestic statues of the Hungarian princes of the 3 ruling dynasties. In the center there is a majestic column, topped with a sculpture of the Archangel Gabriel, and below – with allegorical statues of virtues. The square is surrounded by many amazing architectural structures in the Gothic, Baroque and Renaissance styles: Vajdahunyad Castle, Széchenyi Baths, Myucharnok Art Gallery, the Millennium Monument, the Museum of Fine Arts, etc.
Buy a bus ticket online for RUB 1,409.00
Brno
On the beautiful Moravian Plain, near the confluence of the Svitava and Svratka rivers, lies the picturesque city of Brno, famous for hosting industrial fairs of international importance. Brno was not chosen as the venue by chance – today it is a large, highly developed industrial center of Europe. But along with this, Brno can be proud of its ancient history and culture, unique monuments. The pride of the inhabitants of Brno is the Dominican Church of St. Michael – a religious building of the Baroque style (17th century). The temple is surrounded by statues of saints, each of which is a true work of art.
An equally significant monument of the Middle Ages is the Spielberg fortress castle, located on the peak of the same name. As one of the important symbols of Brno, it is depicted on the coins of the Czech Republic. 2 Gothic chapels stand near the castle. It is impossible not to visit the Capuchin Monastery, which surprises with the remains of monks stored in it, which are not subject to decay, thanks to a special ventilation system. Everyone's duty is to visit the Observatory named after the famous N. Copernicus, whose planetarium is equipped with a powerful telescope.
Buy a bus ticket online for 849.00 ₽