20-Day Ultimate Luxury Escapes Route in Austria
Austria is a land where imperial history meets breathtaking natural beauty, all wrapped in a blanket of sophisticated luxury. This 20-day epic journey is designed for the discerning traveler who seeks the finer things: first-class rail travel, Michelin-starred dining, and private access to the country's most iconic landmarks.
You will traverse the country from the musical heart of Vienna to the majestic peaks of the Arlberg, staying in historic palaces and world-class Alpine resorts. This is more than a vacation; it is a deep dive into the cultural and scenic riches of Central Europe, curated for comfort and exclusivity.
The Itinerary
Day 1: Vienna, Austria - Imperial Arrival
Luxury Transfer to Hotel Sacher
Arrive at Vienna International Airport and meet your private chauffeur for a transfer to the legendary Hotel Sacher, located directly opposite the State Opera.
Kärntner Straße Exploration
Take a gentle stroll through Vienna's premier shopping street, stopping at Swarovski's flagship store for a private viewing of their latest collections.
Fine Dining at Rote Bar
Enjoy a formal welcome dinner at the Hotel Sacher's Rote Bar, featuring classic Viennese Tafelspitz in an opulent, velvet-draped setting.
Nightcap at Blaue Bar
End your first evening with a signature cocktail at the intimate and cozy Blaue Bar before retiring to your suite.
Day 2: Vienna, Austria - Palatial Grandeur
Private Tour of Hofburg Palace
Avoid the crowds with an exclusive early-access tour of the Sisi Museum and the Imperial Treasury, housing the crown jewels of the Holy Roman Empire.
Lipizzaner Stallion Morning Training
Watch the world-famous white stallions at the Spanish Riding School during their morning training session in the Baroque winter riding hall.
Coffee House Culture at Demel
Experience the traditional Viennese coffee house culture with a guided tasting of pastries at the former imperial and royal confectioner, Demel.
Vienna State Opera Performance
Attend a world-class opera or ballet performance. For the ultimate experience, we recommend booking a private box in advance.
Day 3: Vienna, Austria - Art & Gardens
Belvedere Palace Art Tour
Visit the Upper Belvedere to view Gustav Klimt’s 'The Kiss' and other masterpieces within this stunning Baroque palace complex.
Lunch at Steirereck
Dine at Austria's most famous restaurant, located in the Stadtpark. This two-Michelin-starred establishment offers a modern take on Austrian cuisine.
Hundertwasserhaus Visit
A short drive takes you to the colorful and eccentric apartment house designed by artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser.
Prater Ferris Wheel Private Dinner
Enjoy a romantic dinner served inside a private cabin of the historic Riesenrad (Giant Ferris Wheel), overlooking the city lights.
Day 4: Vienna, Austria - Schönbrunn Splendor
Schönbrunn Palace Grand Tour
Explore the 40 most lavish rooms of the Habsburgs' summer residence, followed by a walk through the manicured Privy Gardens.
Lunch at Landtmann’s Jausenstation
Enjoy a light lunch in the hidden garden cafe located within the Schönbrunn palace grounds.
Apple Strudel Show
Watch a professional pastry chef bake traditional Viennese apple strudel at the court bakery in Schönbrunn, including a warm tasting.
Farewell Vienna Dinner at Fabios
Conclude your Vienna stay at this fashionable Italian restaurant, a favorite among the city's elite and international celebrities.
Day 5: Krems, Austria - Into the Wachau Valley
First Class Railjet to Krems
Depart Vienna on an ÖBB Railjet in the First Class cabin for a comfortable one-hour journey into the heart of the Wachau wine region.
Check-in at Steigenberger Hotel & Spa
Nestled among the vineyards, this luxury hotel offers panoramic views of the Danube and exceptional wellness facilities.
Private Wine Tasting in Krems
Visit a historic cellar in Krems for a private tasting of world-class Riesling and Grüner Veltliner wines.
Gourmet Dinner at Lisl Wagner-Bacher
Travel to nearby Mautern for an unforgettable culinary experience at Landhaus Bacher, one of Austria's highest-rated restaurants.
Day 6: Dürnstein, Austria - Danube Romance
Private Danube Boat Cruise
Charter a private motorboat for a cruise along the Danube, passing the blue tower of Dürnstein and historic castle ruins.
Lunch in Dürnstein
Dine on the terrace of Hotel Schloss Dürnstein, offering the most beautiful view of the Danube loop.
Hike to Dürnstein Castle Ruins
A short but steep hike leads to where Richard the Lionheart was once imprisoned. The view from the top is unparalleled.
Apricot Product Tasting
Wachau is famous for its apricots. Visit a local producer to sample exquisite jams, brandies, and soaps.
Day 7: Salzburg, Austria - Transition to Music City
Melk Abbey Exclusive Tour
Stop at the magnificent Benedictine Melk Abbey, a masterpiece of Baroque architecture overlooking the river.
Railjet Business Class to Salzburg
Continue your westward journey in the ultra-premium Business Class section of the ÖBB Railjet, arriving in Salzburg in approximately two hours.
Mirabell Palace Gardens
Take a relaxing walk through the Mirabell Gardens, famous as a filming location for 'The Sound of Music'.
Dinner at Ikarus
Experience the 'Guest Chef' concept at Hangar-7's Ikarus, where a different world-renowned chef creates the menu every month.
Day 8: Salzburg, Austria - Mozart's Legacy
Mozart’s Birthplace Private Tour
Explore the house on Getreidegasse where the musical genius was born, featuring his original instruments and letters.
Lunch at St. Peter Stiftskulinarium
Dine at the oldest restaurant in Europe, serving refined Austrian dishes in a series of unique, historic dining rooms.
Hohensalzburg Fortress by Funicular
Take the modern funicular up to the fortress for a private tour of the medieval Princes' Chambers.
Salzburg Fortress Concert
Enjoy an evening of Mozart and Strauss performed by a chamber orchestra within the historic walls of the Golden Hall.
Day 9: Salzburg, Austria - Sound of Music Luxury
Private Sound of Music Tour
Follow the trail of the von Trapp family in a luxury SUV, visiting Leopoldskron Palace and the Gazebo at Hellbrunn.
Hellbrunn Trick Fountains
Experience the playful and historic trick fountains at Schloss Hellbrunn, designed to surprise and soak unsuspecting guests.
Shopping in Getreidegasse
Browse the high-end boutiques and traditional workshops in Salzburg's most famous shopping street, known for its wrought-iron signs.
Dinner at Esszimmer
Enjoy innovative, Michelin-starred cuisine in a modern and stylish atmosphere just outside the old town.
Day 10: Hallstatt, Austria - Lakeside Perfection
Private Transfer to Hallstatt
A scenic 1.5-hour drive through the Salzkammergut Lake District brings you to the world-famous village of Hallstatt.
Check-in at Heritage Hotel Hallstatt
Stay in the heart of the UNESCO village in a room overlooking the pristine Hallstätter See.
Hallstatt Salt Mine Exclusive Tour
Take the funicular up the mountain to visit the world's oldest salt mine, followed by the Skywalk for panoramic views.
Lakeside Dinner at Seehotel Grüner Baum
Savor fresh-caught Alpine char on the historic terrace of the most famous hotel in the village.
Day 11: Hallstatt, Austria - Alpine Serenity
Sunrise Photography Session
Join a local photographer for a private early-morning session to capture the village before the day-trippers arrive.
Private Electric Boat Rental
Rent a traditional electric boat for a quiet hour on the lake, enjoying the silence and the reflection of the mountains.
Dachstein Ice Caves
Take the cable car up to the Krippenstein for a private tour of the giant ice caves and the 'Five Fingers' viewing platform.
Casual Gourmet at Brauhaus
Enjoy high-quality local beer and hearty, refined Austrian staples at the historic Brauhaus Hallstatt.
Day 12: Bad Ischl, Austria - The Emperor’s Retreat
Transfer to Bad Ischl
A short 25-minute drive takes you to the former summer residence of Emperor Franz Joseph I.
Kaiservilla Private Tour
Explore the 'Imperial Villa' and its expansive gardens, where the Emperor spent his summers for over 60 years.
Pastries at Konditorei Zauner
Visit this legendary pastry shop, once a supplier to the imperial court, and try the famous Zaunerstollen.
EurothermenResort Relaxation
Unwind in the saline thermal baths and saunas of the town's premier spa facility.
Day 13: Zell am See, Austria - Glaciers & Lakes
Scenic Drive to Zell am See
Travel through the breathtaking mountain passes of the Hohe Tauern National Park to reach the lakeside town of Zell am See.
Check-in at Grand Hotel Zell am See
This landmark hotel sits on its own private peninsula, offering unrivaled luxury and historic charm.
Schmittenhöhe Mountain Vista
Take the Porsche-designed cable car to the summit of Schmittenhöhe for views of thirty 3,000-meter peaks.
Dinner at Mayer’s Schloss Prielau
Dine at the two-Michelin-starred restaurant located in a castle formerly owned by the Porsche family.
Day 14: Kaprun, Austria - Peak of Salzburg
Kitzsteinhorn Glacier Adventure
Ascend to 3,029 meters via the 3K K-onnection. Visit the 'Top of Salzburg' viewing platform for year-round snow experiences.
Lunch at Gletschermühle
Enjoy a high-altitude lunch with stunning views at this modern mountain restaurant.
Tauern Spa Kaprun
Spend the afternoon at one of Austria's most impressive modern spas, featuring a glass-walled skyline pool.
Casino Zell am See
Try your luck in the elegant setting of the lakeside casino, located within the Grand Hotel building.
Day 15: Kitzbühel, Austria - Alpine Chic
Transfer to Kitzbühel
A one-hour private transfer brings you to Austria's most glamorous ski resort, famous for its upscale lifestyle.
Check-in at A-ROSA Kitzbühel
This castle-style resort offers a world-class spa and exceptional views of the Hahnenkamm mountain.
Streif Downhill Walk
In summer, hike the legendary Hahnenkamm Streif, the world's most dangerous downhill ski race track.
Dinner at Neuwirt
Experience award-winning Tirolean cuisine in the heart of the village at this Michelin-recommended establishment.
Day 16: Innsbruck, Austria - Capital of the Alps
Railjet to Innsbruck
Take the fast train through the Inn Valley to Innsbruck, the capital of Tirol, known for its mix of imperial and modern architecture.
Lunch at Ottoburg
Dine in a 12th-century tower at the entrance of the old town, specializing in game and traditional Tirolean dishes.
Golden Roof & Imperial Palace
Visit the symbol of the city, the Goldenes Dachl, and the Hofburg Innsbruck, the former palace of the Habsburgs.
Nordkette Sunset
Take the Hungerburg funicular and cable car directly from the city center to the Top of Innsbruck for a sunset drink.
Day 17: Wattens, Austria - Crystal Wonders
Swarovski Crystal Worlds
A private chauffeur takes you to Wattens for an exclusive 'VIP Experience' at the Swarovski Kristallwelten.
Lunch at Daniels Kristallwelten
Dine within the crystal world's bright and modern pavilion, known for its high-end international menu.
Ambras Castle Visit
Return to Innsbruck to visit this Renaissance castle, home to the world's oldest museum collection.
Dinner at Lichtblick
Enjoy a modern gourmet dinner at this glass-enclosed rooftop restaurant offering 360-degree views of the city.
Day 18: St. Anton am Arlberg, Austria - High Alpine Luxury
Transfer to St. Anton
Travel further west into the Arlberg region, the birthplace of modern skiing and home to some of the world's best mountain hotels.
Check-in at Hotel Arlberg Hospiz
This legendary hotel in St. Christoph offers one of the most impressive wine cellars in the Alps.
Valluga Peak Viewing
Take the cable car to the highest point in the region for a view that spans five countries on a clear day.
Bordeaux Tasting & Dinner
Enjoy a private tasting of rare Bordeaux wines in the Hospiz cellar before a multi-course gourmet dinner.
Day 19: Lech am Arlberg, Austria - The Royal Village
Private Transfer to Lech
Travel over the pass to the exclusive village of Lech, a favorite summer and winter destination for European royalty.
Gourmet Lunch at Aurelio’s
Dine at one of the world's most luxurious mountain hotels, Aurelio Lech, featuring contemporary Alpine cuisine.
Guided Alpine Hike
Take a gentle guided walk through the high Alpine meadows, learning about the local flora and fauna.
Farewell Dinner at Chef’s Table
Conclude your Austrian journey with an exclusive Chef’s Table experience at the Schualhus in Lech.
Day 20: Innsbruck, Austria - Departure
Final Alpine Breakfast
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast on the terrace, soaking in the fresh mountain air one last time.
Transfer to Innsbruck Airport
Your private driver will take you on the 1.5-hour journey back to Innsbruck Airport for your departure flight.
Airport VIP Lounge
Relax in the Tyrol Lounge at Innsbruck Airport, which offers a private terrace with mountain views while you wait for your flight.
Safe Travels Home
Board your flight with memories of an unforgettable 20-day luxury odyssey through the heart of Austria.
Best Time to Visit Austria
For this luxury itinerary, the best time to visit is during the late Spring (May and June) or early Autumn (September and October). During these periods, the weather is mild and pleasant for city tours and Alpine hiking, and the major crowds are absent. If you prefer a winter wonderland experience, December to March is ideal for skiing and the famous Christmas markets, though some mountain passes may be closed to cars. July and August offer the best weather but are the busiest months for tourism.
Currency & Money
Austria uses the Euro (€). Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, and American Express) are widely accepted in all luxury hotels, high-end restaurants, and boutiques. However, it is always advisable to carry some cash for smaller purchases in remote Alpine villages or traditional cafes. Tipping is customary but not mandatory; in fine dining restaurants, a tip of 10% is standard for excellent service. Most ATMs allow for easy cash withdrawals with international cards.
Getting Around Austria
Austria boasts one of the most efficient and luxurious transport networks in the world. For intercity travel, the ÖBB Railjet trains offer First Class and Business Class cabins that provide exceptional comfort and complimentary service. For this luxury route, we also recommend private chauffeur transfers for more remote areas like the Wachau Valley or the Arlberg region. Domestic flights are available between Vienna and Innsbruck/Salzburg, though the high-speed trains are often faster and more scenic.
