The 8 Best Full-Day Tours in Vienna
Vienna isn’t just about grand palaces and classical music — it’s also a fantastic jumping-off point for day-trips that reveal Austria’s stunning landscapes and nearby cities. Whether you want to explore the lakeside beauty of Hallstatt or wander through historic Prague, Vienna’s central location makes it easy to reach some of Europe’s most memorable sights in just a day. We particularly love the full-day trip to Hallstatt and Salzkammergut (see more here), with its breathtaking scenery and informative guide, and the private tours that let you customize your experience.
If you’re craving a blend of natural beauty and cultural gems, these full-day tours are your best options — designed to fit different interests, budgets, and schedules. From iconic castles to salt mines, each offers a unique window into Austria and its neighbors, so you can choose what suits your travel style best.
Quick Overview
Our list covers guided and private tours to iconic destinations, including Hallstatt, Salzburg, Prague, and Budapest. Some tours focus on scenic drives and outdoor adventures, like Vienna: Full-Day Vienna Woods Wine Tasting, while others combine city sightseeing with cultural experiences, such as Vienna: Full-Day Private Tour including Schönbrunn Palace. Private options let you tailor your day, perfect for couples or small groups, while group tours often offer better value for budget-conscious travelers.
Below, each tour is broken down with practical details, highlighting what makes it special and who it’s best suited for.
1. From Vienna: Full Day Trip to Hallstatt and Salzkammergut
This 13-hour guided bus tour explores the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Salzkammergut, famous for its mountain vistas and pristine lakes. It includes a boat ride across Hallstätter See (available from April to November) and time to wander the picture-perfect village of Hallstatt. Our favorite part is the chance to pose at all the Instagram Hotspots and learn about this area’s salt mining history from a licensed guide.
The tour features scenic drives, a short guided tour in Hallstatt, and free time for exploring on your own. Reviewers praise the fantastic landscapes and knowledgeable guides, with many saying it’s an unforgettable experience. For those wanting a full immersion into Austria’s alpine lakes and charming villages, this trip delivers.
Bottom line: Perfect for nature lovers and photo enthusiasts; the boat cruise and village exploration make it worth the price.
2. Prague Full-Day Tour From Vienna with Transfers and Guide
For about $1,001, this full-day private trip takes you from Vienna to Prague, with a personal guide emphasizing the city’s majestic architecture and historic sites. The trip includes a comfortable private vehicle, allowing scenic views of the Czech Republic along the way. Once in Prague, your guide will lead you through Prague Castle, St Vitus Cathedral, and across the Charles Bridge.
Guests love the personalized attention and the ability to customize the visit. With breathtaking panoramic views and a leisurely pace, this tour is ideal for travelers seeking an in-depth experience without the hassle of organizing transport. Reviews highlight the expert guidance and smooth logistics, making it a hassle-free way to see a city famous for its storybook charm.
Bottom line: Best suited for culture and architecture enthusiasts who appreciate private, tailored experiences.
3. Private Full Day Trip to Hallstatt, Salzburg and Melk from Vienna
This up to 13-hour private tour is perfect for maximizing your Austrian sightseeing. Combining Melk Abbey, Hallstatt, and Salzburg, it offers a luxury vehicle, Wi-Fi, and a flexible itinerary. Highlights include a visit to the filming locations from The Sound of Music in Salzburg and a scenic bird’s-eye view of Hallstatt from the Skywalk.
The tour is praised for expert guiding and the ability to see multiple highlights in a day. One reviewer notes that their guide, Nico, was “young but mature,” making the experience both fun and informative. It’s ideal if you want to cover a lot of ground and prefer a personalized experience.
Bottom line: Best for travelers seeking a luxurious and customized Austrian adventure, especially if limited on time.
4. Vienna: Full-Day Private Tour including Schönbrunn Palace
This 8-hour private tour starts with a skip-the-line visit to Schönbrunn Palace and covers Vienna’s imperial sights. Your guide will take you around the Ringstraße, where you’ll see Emperor Franz Josef’s monuments, and through the Museumsquartier to explore Vienna’s vibrant cultural scene.
Guests appreciate the private car, flexible schedule, and the chance to walk through historic streets where Mozart composed. The guide’s knowledgeable commentary makes the history come alive. It’s an excellent choice for those wanting a comprehensive, personalized day in Vienna with a focus on the city’s royal and artistic heritage.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers who want a luxury, all-in-one city experience in a single day.
5. Private full day tour to Salzburg from Vienna with a local guide
At number 5, this 12-hour private tour takes you to Salzburg, Mozart’s birthplace, famous for its Baroque architecture and connection to “The Sound of Music.” The tour includes stops at Lake Attersee and St. Gilgen, with a leisurely walking tour of Salzburg’s Old Town.
Guests commend the expert guide, Nico, who shared stories about Salzburg’s famous residents and music history, making the day both scenic and educational. The trip is perfect for those wanting personal attention and a deep dive into Salzburg’s highlights without feeling rushed.
Bottom line: Best for music lovers and those eager to explore Salzburg’s scenic and cultural riches in a day.
6. Full-Day Private Trip from Vienna to Prague
This customizable 12-hour trip offers round-trip transportation and a private walking tour in Prague. Your guide can tailor the itinerary to include favorites like Wenceslas Square, the Old Town Square, or a visit to Prague Castle. Guests love the flexibility and hassle-free logistics.
One reviewer said, “Our driver was very courteous and drove carefully,” while others appreciated the personalized guidance. This tour works well if you want to combine sightseeing with your own interests, especially if you prefer a more relaxed pace.
Bottom line: Great for travelers who want a bespoke experience and control over what they see.
7. Private Guided Full Day Tour to charming Burgenland region with Wine tasting
For wine lovers, this 7-8 hour tour through the Burgenland region offers wine tasting, visits to Rust and Eisenstadt, and insights into Austria’s borderland culture. You’ll meet a local winemaker, taste traditional wines, and learn about the Esterhazy family’s history.
Tour guide Geni is praised for her knowledge and attentiveness, making this a delightful mix of history, culture, and wine. It’s perfect for those wanting a relaxed day with a focus on Austria’s border region’s diversity.
Bottom line: Ideal for wine enthusiasts and those interested in regional culture beyond the city.
8. Full-Day Private Trip from Vienna to Budapest
This 10-hour private journey takes you from Vienna to Budapest, with a personal driver and guide. Once there, explore Buda Castle, the Parliament, and the Fisherman’s Bastion. Reviews highlight the comfortable ride and expert guidance.
Perfect for travelers wanting a luxury day trip to Hungary’s capital, especially those who prefer private transportation and customized itineraries. It’s a great way to see two cities in one trip.
Bottom line: Best suited for those seeking comfort and flexibility on a day trip to Budapest.
How to Choose Your Perfect Full-Day Tour
When selecting your ideal full-day tour, consider your budget, interests, and fitness level. For scenic outdoor adventures, the Hallstatt trip is unbeatable, especially with its boat cruise. If you love city exploration and architecture, private options like Schönbrunn Palace or Prague can be tailored to your pace. Budget travelers might prefer group tours with straightforward itineraries, while those seeking a luxury experience should consider private options.
Timing also matters — booking early ensures better availability, especially during peak travel seasons. Think about how much you want to see and do — some tours include tastings or boat rides, while others focus purely on sightseeing.
Final Thoughts
Vienna offers a diverse array of full-day tours that match different interests and travel styles. For a scenic escape, the Hallstatt trip is a standout. For those wanting to explore historic cities, private tours to Prague or Salzburg deliver unforgettable experiences. Budget travelers can enjoy well-reviewed group tours, while romantic couples or families might opt for the private, customizable options.
Whatever your choice, don’t forget to book early, especially for popular destinations. With so many great options, your perfect day-trip from Vienna is just a click away — so start planning now!