Itinerary

Austria is a stunning country with breathtaking landscapes, delicious food, and plenty of activities for the whole family, including your furry friend. Here’s a fun and engaging 7-day itinerary that balances hiking, swimming, local cuisine, and family-friendly activities. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Arrival in Vienna

Morning:

• Arrive in Vienna and check into a pet-friendly hotel. The 25hours Hotel at MuseumsQuartier is a great option!
• Grab a hearty breakfast at a local café. Try a traditional Wiener Melange and a Kaiserschmarrn (shredded pancake).

Afternoon:

• Explore the beautiful Schönbrunn Palace gardens. They’re dog-friendly, and you can stroll around while soaking in the stunning views.
• Have lunch at a nearby restaurant, enjoying some Schnitzel or Tafelspitz.

Evening:

• Head to the Danube Canal for a relaxing evening walk. There are plenty of spots to grab dinner, and you can find some great local eateries. Try some Austrian wine with your meal!

## Day 2: Vienna to Salzkammergut

Morning:

• After breakfast, drive to the Salzkammergut region (about 3 hours). It’s a beautiful area known for its lakes and mountains.
• Stop at Lake Wolfgang for a swim! The water is refreshing, and there are dog-friendly areas.

Afternoon:

• Have lunch at a lakeside restaurant. Try some local fish dishes or Brettljause (a platter of cold cuts and cheeses).
• Spend the afternoon hiking around the lake. The Schafberg Mountain offers stunning views and is dog-friendly.

Evening:

• Settle into a cozy guesthouse in St. Wolfgang. Enjoy a traditional dinner of Kasnocken (cheese noodles) at a local tavern.

## Day 3: Hiking in the Salzkammergut

Morning:

• After breakfast, embark on a family-friendly hike in the Dachstein Salzkammergut. The 5 Fingers viewpoint is a must-see and is accessible with your dog.

Afternoon:

• Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at the viewpoint or head back down to a local restaurant for some hearty Austrian goulash.
• Spend the afternoon swimming in [Lake Hallstatt](https://www.viator.com/searchResults/all?text=Lake%20[Hallstatt](https://www.viator.com/searchResults/all?text=Hallstatt&pid=P00093752&mcid=42383&medium=link&campaign=roamaround")&pid=P00093752&mcid=42383&medium=link&campaign=roamaround"). It’s a picturesque spot, perfect for a family swim!

Evening:

• Explore the charming village of Hallstatt. Have dinner at a local restaurant, trying out some strudel for dessert!

## Day 4: Hallstatt to Innsbruck

Morning:

• After breakfast, take a scenic drive to Innsbruck (about 2 hours).
• Stop at the Zugspitze for a morning hike. The views are breathtaking, and there are trails suitable for families.

Afternoon:

• Arrive in Innsbruck and have lunch at a local eatery. Try some Tiroler Gröstl (a hearty potato and meat dish).
• Spend the afternoon exploring the Innsbruck Old Town. Don’t miss the Golden Roof and the Nordkette Cable Car for stunning views.

Evening:

• Enjoy dinner at a traditional Tyrolean restaurant. Sample some Speckplatte (cured meats) and local cheeses.

## Day 5: Innsbruck to Zillertal Valley

Morning:

• After breakfast, head to the Zillertal Valley (about 1 hour). This area is perfect for hiking and outdoor activities.
• Start with a hike in the Zillertal Alps. The Schwarzsee trail is dog-friendly and offers beautiful scenery.

Afternoon:

• Have a picnic lunch by the lake or visit a local hut for some Kaiserschmarrn.
• Spend the afternoon swimming in the Ziller River. There are designated swimming areas that are family-friendly.

Evening:

• Check into a family-friendly hotel in the valley. Enjoy a hearty dinner of Zillertaler Krapfen (dumplings) at a local restaurant.

## Day 6: Zillertal Valley to Salzburg

Morning:

• After breakfast, drive to Salzburg (about 1.5 hours).
• Visit the Untersberg for a morning hike. The trails are beautiful and suitable for families.

Afternoon:

• Have lunch in Salzburg’s Old Town. Try some Salzburger Nockerl for dessert!
• Spend the afternoon exploring Mirabell Palace and its gardens, which are dog-friendly.

Evening:

• Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, sampling some Salzburg-style fish dishes.

## Day 7: Salzburg and Departure

Morning:

• After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll through the Getreidegasse for some last-minute shopping and sightseeing.
• Visit Hohensalzburg Fortress for panoramic views of the city.

Afternoon:

• Have a farewell lunch at a local café, enjoying some final bites of Austrian pastries.
• Depending on your departure time, you might squeeze in a quick swim at Fuschlsee, a beautiful lake nearby.

Evening:

• Head to the airport for your departure, filled with wonderful memories of your Austrian adventure!

---

I hope this itinerary helps you plan an unforgettable trip to Austria with your family and furry friend! Enjoy the stunning landscapes, delicious food, and quality time together. Safe travels! 🐾🏞️🍽️