Innsbruck, Salzburg and the Austrian Tyrol

Day 1  Innsbruck      
Arrive in picturesque Innsbruck, the capital of Austria’s Tyrol region. After checking in, discover the unique old town and historic Maria-Theresien-Strasse, including the striking Goldenes Dachl (Golden Roof), decorated with 2,657 gilded copper tiles as a wedding present from Emperor Maximilian I in 1500. The onion-domed City Tower has 360 degree views of the old town and the Nordkette mountains beyond.      

Days 2-3  Innsbruck  
Pick up your car from the airport depot and spend a couple of days exploring the spectacular Tyrol region. From Ambras Castle, the world’s first museum to the modern architecture of the Zaha Hadid’s Hungerburgbahn funicular station, the Tyrol is a land of contrasts. Perhaps explore the museum pavilions along the high alpine road at Timmelsjoch or take a nature walk at one of over 40 designated mountaineering villages.      

Day 4  Innsbruck to Zell am See      
Leave Innsbruck and the Tyrol behind and head to the serene shores of crystal clear Lake Zell in Salzburgerland. The lake offers swimming, beaches, watersports, open air pools and a beautiful promenade, all set against the stunning mountain views.        

Day 5  Zell am See      
Enjoy a day at leisure to enjoy the natural beauty of Zell am See. Why not take the cable car to Schmittenhöhe, Austria’s first certified art and culture mountain? As well as incredible views of the surrounding area, the Four Lakes Art hike passes over 30 sculptures by international artists.      
     
Day 6  Zell am See to Salzburg      
After a final lakeside stroll continue your journey towards Salzburg. On the way stop at the market town of Werfen. Visit the world’s biggest ice cave, which is over 42km long, the medieval Hohenwerfen Castle, or follow the Sound of Music trail through the film’s iconic alpine pastures to Gschwandtanger.      

Days 7-8  Salzburg  
Hohensalzburg fortress has stood in protection of Salzburg since 1077. Begin your visit here for the best views of the city before wandering the ornate baroque laneways of Mozart’s birthplace below. Visit the bright yellow Hagenauer Haus and the Mozart Residence to see his original pianoforte and other artifacts before visiting a local konditorei to sample a delicious marzipan Mozartkugeln, first created here in 1890. Like the hills that surround it, Salzburg too is “alive with the Sound of Music”; the Mirabell Palace and Gardens and the Hellbrunn Palace both featured in the iconic film.    

Day 9  Salzburg      
Drop your car off at Salzburg airport before your onward flight.