Welcome to a whirlwind tour of Austria, Slovenia, and Germany, where each day promises new adventures and unforgettable experiences. From the historic streets of Salzburg to the stunning natural beauty of Lake Bled and the cultural delights of Innsbruck, get ready for an incredible journey through some of Europe’s most enchanting destinations.

Day 1: Arrival in Salzburg & First Stay in Gosau

My European adventure began with an arrival in Salzburg, followed by a scenic drive to Gosau, a charming village nestled in the Austrian Alps. Surrounded by breathtaking mountain scenery, Gosau is the perfect place to relax and unwind after your travels.

Hotel Stay 1 in Gosau: COOEE alpin Hotel Dachstein

Tips:

• Gosau: Take some time to explore Gosau village and soak in the picturesque surroundings.
• Food: Sample traditional Austrian cuisine at a local restaurant.
• Hike Prep: Plan your hiking adventures for the days ahead and make any necessary gear rentals in advance.

Day 2: Hallstatt

Nestled on the shores of Lake Hallstatt and surrounded by towering mountains, Hallstatt is often referred to as one of the most beautiful villages in the world. Its charming streets, historic buildings, and stunning natural scenery make it a must-visit destination in Austria.

Things to Do:

• 5 Finger Lookout: Visit the iconic 5 Finger Lookout and the Hallstatt Skywalk for breathtaking views of the Alps.
• Hallstatt Skywalk: Don’t miss the opportunity to ride the Salzbergbahn cable car for panoramic views of the surrounding area.
• Marktplatz: Take a leisurely stroll around the lake and explore the Market Square.

Tips:

• Arrive early to avoid crowds at popular attractions.
• Wear comfortable walking shoes as Hallstatt is best explored on foot.
• Consider taking a boat ride on Lake Hallstatt for a different perspective of the village.

Day 3: Austria Sky Ladder

The Austria Sky Ladder, also known as the Stairway to Heaven, is a thrilling via ferrata located near Gosau. Offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, it’s a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Things to Do:

• Sky Ladder: Embark on the challenging hike up the Sky Ladder for breathtaking panoramic views.
  • Rent any necessary gear from Sport Jirka Verleih in advance.
  • Park at the Gosausee Parking lot and take the cable car to Skyladder Gosaukammbahn for easier access to the trail.

Tips:

• Check weather conditions before embarking on the hike and dress accordingly.
• Carry plenty of water and snacks as there are limited facilities along the trail.
• Start your hike early in the day to avoid crowds and make the most of the experience.

Day 4: Drive from Gosau to Lake Bled

After your exhilarating hike, it’s time to hit the road and head to Lake Bled, a picturesque destination in Slovenia known for its stunning natural beauty and iconic island church.

Things to Do Along the Way:

• Eisriesenwelt: Explore the Eisriesenwelt Trailhead and marvel at the largest ice cave in the world.
• Burg Hohenwerfen Castle: Visit Burg Hohenwerfen Castle and immerse yourself in medieval history.

Food: Jausenstation Neuhauser Stube offers delicious local cuisine for a satisfying meal during your journey.

Hotel Stay 2 in Lake Bled: Penzion Berc

Tips:

• Take your time to enjoy the scenic drive from Gosau to Lake Bled, as there are many photo-worthy spots along the way.
• Consider stopping at roadside cafes or viewpoints to stretch your legs and take in the views.
• Arrive in Lake Bled in the afternoon to check into your accommodation and relax before exploring the area.

Day 5: Explore Lake Bled

Nestled amid the Julian Alps, Lake Bled is renowned for its crystal-clear waters, charming island church, and medieval castle perched atop a rocky cliff.

Things to Do:

• Walk Lake Bled: Take a leisurely stroll around the lake and soak in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
• Assumption Church: Visit the Assumption of Maria Church on Bled Island and ring the wishing bell for good luck.
• Bled Castle: Explore Bled Castle and enjoy panoramic views of the lake and beyond.
• Hike: Hike to Mala Osojnica Trailhead for stunning photography opportunities.

Tips:

• Rent a SUP or boat to explore the lake from a different perspective.
• Don’t forget your camera to capture the stunning scenery and iconic landmarks.
• Enjoy a relaxing afternoon at one of the lakeside cafes or restaurants.

Day 6: Drive from Lake Bled to Lienz

Situated in the heart of the Austrian Alps, Lienz is a picturesque town known for its charming streets, historic buildings, and stunning mountain scenery.

Things to Do Along the Way:

• Hochstein Hütte: Drive up to Hochstein Hütte and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
• Walk Lienz: Take a leisurely stroll around Lienz and admire its historic architecture.

Food: Hopfi’s | Imbiss & Schmankerln offers delicious Austrian cuisine for a satisfying meal.

Hotel Stay 3 in Lienz: Wildauers

Tips:

• Enjoy the scenic drive from Lake Bled to Lienz and take advantage of photo opportunities along the way.
• Take breaks during your journey to stretch your legs and enjoy the mountain views.
• Arrive in Lienz in the afternoon to check into your accommodation and explore the town at your leisure.

Day 7: Hiking in Hoho Tauren National Park

The Hohe Tauern National Park, nestled in the heart of the Austrian Alps, is a natural paradise of unparalleled beauty and biodiversity. Covering over 1,800 square kilometers, it is Austria’s largest national park and a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Things to Do:

• Hohe Tauern National Park Visitor Center: Explore the Hohe Tauern National Park Visitor Center and learn about the region’s diverse wildlife and ecosystems.
• Leitenkammerklamm im Wildgerlostal: Embark on the Wildgerlostal hike, starting from Familienhotel Finkau and leading to the Trisslalm restaurant. Enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and lush alpine meadows.

Tips:

• Pack plenty of water and snacks for your hike to stay hydrated and energized.
• Wear sturdy hiking boots and dress in layers to accommodate changing weather conditions.
• Check the weather forecast and trail conditions before setting out on your hike.

Day 8: Drive from Lienz to Zell am See Area

Things to Do Along the Way:

• Heiligenblut am Großglockner: Explore Heiligenblut am Großglockner and admire its historic buildings and stunning mountain scenery.
• Grossglockner High Alpine Road: Drive along the Grossglockner High Alpine Road, one of the most scenic mountain roads in Europe.
• Kaiser-Franz-Josefs-Höhe: Stop at the Kaiser-Franz-Josefs-Höhe Visitor Center/observation deck for panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and glaciers.

Hotel Stay 4 in Zell am See: Grand Hotel Zell am See

Tips:

• Take your time to enjoy the scenic drive and stop at viewpoints along the way to take in the breathtaking scenery.
• Consider packing a picnic lunch to enjoy at one of the scenic stops along the Grossglockner High Alpine Road.
• Arrive in the Zell am See area in the afternoon to check into your accommodation and relax before exploring the area.

Day 9: Explore Zel am See

Located in the Austrian Alps, Zell am See is a charming lakeside town surrounded by majestic mountains and pristine natural landscapes.

Things to Do:

• Sigmund Thun Gorge: Explore the Sigmund Thun Gorge and marvel at its rugged rock formations and rushing waterfalls.
• Kaprun Hochgebirgsstauseen: Visit the Kaprun Hochgebirgsstauseen to see the impressive high mountain reservoirs and learn about hydroelectric power generation.
• Walk Zell am See: Take a leisurely stroll around Zell am See town, enjoy the lake, and browse the shops and cafes.

Tips:

• Consider renting a bike or taking a boat tour on Lake Zell to explore the area from a different perspective.
• Don’t forget to bring your swimsuit if you fancy a refreshing dip in the lake on a warm day.
• Take advantage of the local cuisine and try traditional Austrian dishes at one of the lakeside restaurants.

Day 10: Drive from Zell am See to Innsbruck

Things to Do Along the Way:

• Krimml Waterfalls: Marvel at the impressive Krimml Waterfalls, one of the highest waterfalls in Europe, as it cascades down a series of tiers amidst the stunning backdrop of the Hohe Tauern National Park.
• Olpererhütte Hike Trailhead: Embark on a scenic hike from the Olpererhütte Hike Trailhead, traversing through alpine meadows and rugged terrain while enjoying breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
• Countryside Drive: Enjoy a leisurely drive through the Austrian countryside, soaking in the picturesque landscapes of rolling hills, lush forests, and charming villages along the way.

Hotel Stay 5 in Innsbruck: The Penz Hotel

Tips:

• Plan your departure from Zell am See early to allow ample time for sightseeing and stops along the way to Innsbruck.
• Pack snacks and drinks for the journey to stay refreshed and energized during the drive.
• Check road conditions and traffic updates before setting out to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey.

Day 11: Explore Innsbruck

Nestled in the heart of the Austrian Alps, Innsbruck is renowned for its stunning mountain scenery, rich history, and vibrant cultural scene.

Things to Do:

• Triumphpforte: Begin your exploration of Innsbruck with a visit to the Triumphal Arch, a historic landmark that commemorates the marriage of Archduke Leopold and Maria Ludovica of Spain.
• Hafelekar: Take a cable car ride to Hafelekar, the top of Innsbruck at 2,334 meters above sea level, for breathtaking panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains
• Explore the Old Town: Wander through the charming streets of Innsbruck’s Old Town, lined with colorful buildings, historic churches, and quaint cafes.

Tips:

• Start your day early to make the most of your time exploring Innsbruck’s attractions.
• Wear comfortable walking shoes and dress in layers, as the weather in the mountains can be unpredictable.
• Take advantage of the Innsbruck Card, which offers free admission to many attractions and discounts on tours and activities.

Day 12: Drive from Innsbruck to Salzburg

Things to Do Along the Way:

• Neuschwanstein Castle: Make a stop at Neuschwanstein Castle, one of the most famous castles in the world, known for its fairy-tale appearance and stunning hilltop location.
• Munich, Germany: Take a detour to Munich, Germany’s vibrant capital city, and explore its rich cultural heritage, historic landmarks, and bustling beer gardens.
  • Marienplatz: Wander around Marienplatz, Munich’s central square, and admire the Gothic architecture of the New Town Hall and the iconic Glockenspiel clock tower.
  • Kitzbühel: Take a break in the charming alpine town of Kitzbühel, known for its picturesque streets, traditional Tyrolean architecture, and world-class skiing.
  • Lunch: Stop for lunch at Restaurant Anna, a cozy eatery in Kitzbühel known for its delicious Austrian cuisine and warm hospitality.

Hotel Stay 6 in Salzburg: HYPERION Hotel

Tips:

• Plan your route in advance and allow plenty of time for sightseeing and breaks along the way.
• Consider taking the scenic route through the Bavarian Alps for breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
• Keep an eye on traffic conditions and road closures, especially if traveling during peak tourist season.

Day 13: Day trip to Schafberg

Schafberg, located in the Salzkammergut region of Austria, is a stunning mountain offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding lakes and alpine landscapes.

Things to Do:

• Himmelspforte Schafberg: Take the Schafbergbahn, a historic cogwheel railway, to reach the summit of Schafberg. Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding Salzkammergut region and the sparkling waters of Wolfgangsee.
• Hitler’s Eagle’s Nest: Visit the Eagle’s Nest (Kehlsteinhaus), a historic building perched on a mountain peak near Berchtesgaden. Built as a retreat for Adolf Hitler, it offers stunning views of the Bavarian Alps.

Tips:

• Check the weather forecast before planning your visit to Schafberg, as visibility can vary depending on the conditions.
• Arrive early to catch the first train to the summit and avoid crowds.
• Wear sturdy footwear and dress in layers, as temperatures can be cooler at higher elevations.

Day 14: Explore Salzburg

Situated on the banks of the Salzach River and overlooked by the majestic Hohensalzburg Fortress, Salzburg is renowned for its baroque architecture, rich cultural heritage, and association with Mozart.

Things to Do:

• Salzburg Zoo Hellbrunn: Spend the morning exploring the Salzburg Zoo Hellbrunn, home to a diverse range of animals from around the world. Don’t miss the daily feeding sessions and animal shows.
• Mirabell Palace Gardens: Wander through the beautifully manicured Mirabell Gardens, featured in the iconic scenes of the movie “The Sound of Music.” Admire the colorful flower beds, ornamental sculptures, and grand fountains.
• Walk around Altstadt Salzburg: Take a leisurely stroll through the historic Old Town of Salzburg, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Discover charming cobblestone streets, quaint squares, and hidden courtyards lined with medieval buildings.

Tips:

• Start your day early to avoid the crowds, especially at popular attractions like Mirabell Gardens and Hohensalzburg Fortress.
• Consider purchasing a Salzburg Card, which offers free admission to many museums and attractions, as well as unlimited use of public transportation.
• Don’t leave Salzburg without sampling some local delicacies, such as Mozartkugel chocolates, schnitzel, and apple strudel, at one of the city’s traditional cafes or restaurants.

And that concludes our 14-day itinerary exploring Austria, Slovenia, and Germany! I hope you found it informative and inspiring for planning your own European adventure. If you have any further questions or need additional assistance, feel free to ask. Safe travels!