Bad Ischl

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Bad Ischl's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Arrival in Bad Ischl
morning
:

Arrive in Bad Ischl and settle into your cozy accommodation. Take a leisurely stroll through the picturesque town to soak in the charm of its historic architecture. Grab a coffee at a local café to energize before the day’s adventures.

afternoon
:

Visit the iconic Kaiservilla, the summer residence of Emperor Franz Joseph I and Empress Elisabeth. Explore the lush gardens surrounding the villa and delve into the imperial history of the area. Don't forget to take pictures with the stunning backdrop of the mountains.

evening
:

Enjoy a delightful dinner at a traditional Austrian restaurant, sampling local dishes and wines. After dinner, leisurely walk along the riverside promenade and revel in the serene atmosphere of Bad Ischl at night. Relax and reflect on your first day in this enchanting town.

day 2
Thermal Spa Relaxation
morning
:

Wake up and indulge in a luxurious morning at the EurothermenResort spa. Enjoy the rejuvenating thermal baths and wellness treatments for a perfect start to your day. Breathe in the fresh mountain air as you unwind in the beautiful surroundings.

afternoon
:

Continue your relaxation at the spa with a healthy lunch at their café, presenting a range of nourishing options. Take an afternoon dip in one of the outdoor pools while basking in the sun. Alternatively, embark on a gentle hike in the nearby mountains to stimulate your appetite.

evening
:

Head back to your accommodation to freshen up before dinner. Choose a different restaurant to explore more of local Austrian cuisine. Conclude the evening with a stroll through the town, perhaps stopping for a dessert at one of the charming bakeries.

day 3
Exploring the Salzkammergut Region
morning
:

Set off early to explore the stunning Salzkammergut region, known for its pristine lakes and breathtaking landscapes. Rent a bicycle or take a guided tour to fully immerse yourself in the scenery. Your first stop could be the stunning Lake Wolfgang, where you'll feel the tranquil energy of the area.

afternoon
:

Continue your journey with a visit to St. Wolfgang, a charming lakeside village. Wander through its narrow streets, enjoy lakeside views, and perhaps take a boat ride on the pristine waters. A leisurely lunch at a lakeside restaurant will recharge you for the rest of the day.

evening
:

Return to Bad Ischl as the sun sets over the mountains. Choose a lively bistro for dinner, and immerse yourself in the local culture through traditional music and dances. Cap off the evening with a nightcap at a local pub, mingling with the friendly locals.

day 4
Cultural Immersion
morning
:

Begin your day at the Lehar Festival, celebrating the works of composer Franz Lehár, if you're visiting in summer. Attend a morning performance or workshop to appreciate traditional operetta music. Explore the festival’s art installations and local artisan markets afterward.

afternoon
:

Visit the Bad Ischl Museum to learn more about the town's significance in Austrian history and its imperial past. Engage with interactive exhibits and admire artifacts from the Habsburg era. Enjoy a light lunch at the café inside the museum overlooking the lush gardens.

evening
:

For dinner, seek out a restaurant featuring live music or a traditional Austrian show. Embrace the lively ambiance and immerse yourself in the performances while enjoying regional flavors. End your evening with a peaceful walk back to your accommodation under the stars.

day 5
Adventure in the Mountains
morning
:

Embark on an early morning ascent of the nearby hiking trails around the Dachstein Mountains. Prepare for an adventure filled with stunning vistas and lush flora, suitable for varying levels of hiking expertise. Bring along a packed breakfast to enjoy amidst the grandeur of nature.

afternoon
:

After conquering the trails, reward yourself with a visit to a local mountain hut for a hearty lunch. Refuel with traditional Austrian fare while soaking in panoramic views. Spend the afternoon exploring nearby waterfalls or engaging in alpine activities like paragliding or rock climbing, if you're up for it.

evening
:

Return to Bad Ischl, feeling accomplished from the day's adventures. Celebrate your journey with a festive dinner at a local restaurant, opting for dishes inspired by the alpine theme. After dinner, retire early to recuperate for the next day's explorations.

day 6
Lake Traunsee Excursion
morning
:

After breakfast, head to Lake Traunsee, renowned for its sparkling waters and dramatic landscapes. Rent a paddleboat to explore the lake or simply enjoy a relaxing morning by the shore with a good book. Take the opportunity for a swim in the refreshing waters if the weather permits.

afternoon
:

Treat yourself to a scenic lunch at a lakeside restaurant, tasting fresh fish and other specialties. Post-lunch, hike to the Traunstein mountain for sweeping views of the surrounding lakes and mountains. The afternoon is perfect for photography and soaking up nature's beauty.

evening
:

Return to Bad Ischl in the early evening, stopping by a quaint town along the way for dinner. Experience the local cuisine at a family-run inn, sharing stories and laughter with fellow travelers. Conclude your day with a nightcap back in Bad Ischl, taking in the atmospheric night sky.

day 7
Day Trip to Bad Aussee
morning
:

Take a day trip to the charming little town of Bad Aussee, nestled within the Ausseerland region known for its stunning alpine scenery. Start your visit by walking through the historic center and admiring the traditional wooden houses. Grab a leisurely breakfast at a quaint café popular with locals.

afternoon
:

Visit the nearby Grundlsee Lake, where you can relax by the clear waters or partake in water sports such as kayaking or sailing. For lunch, taste local delicacies at a restaurant with a view of the lake. Explore the area further by hiking around the lake or visiting the scenic nearby mountains.

evening
:

As you return to Bad Ischl, reflect on the beauty of the Salzkammergut region. For dinner, find a cozy eatery where you can unwind after a day full of adventures. Enjoy a relaxed evening, perhaps with a glass of local wine while chatting about your experiences.

day 8
Historical Insights
morning
:

Spend your morning visiting the former summer residence of Emperor Franz Joseph I at the Kaiserpark, where you can wander through the beautifully manicured gardens. Attend a guided tour to gain insights into the imperial family that once lived there and the historical significance of Bad Ischl. Learn about fascinating anecdotes and stories from the era.

afternoon
:

Explore other historical landmarks in the town, such as the historic Evangelische Kirche and the vibrant local market. Enjoy lunch at a nearby café, sampling regional specialties while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. Spend the afternoon by visiting the nearby salt mines, learning about the area’s rich mining history.

evening
:

For dinner, try a modern twist on Austrian cuisine at a contemporary restaurant in town. Enjoy the fusion of flavors while reflecting on the day’s historical discoveries. End the evening with a stroll through the illuminated streets of Bad Ischl, admiring the blend of history and modern life.

day 9
Relax and Reflect
morning
:

On your final morning, savor a leisurely breakfast at your accommodation or a favorite local café, reflecting on your journey. Take the time to revisit favorite spots in Bad Ischl to absorb any last moments of beauty and serenity. Consider buying a few local souvenirs as mementos of your trip.

afternoon
:

Use this time for any remaining activities you might have missed, like visiting the local shops or enjoying time at a park. Grab a light lunch before you prepare for departure, taking one last stroll alongside the riverbank. Allow yourself to fully take in the stunning surroundings and rich history before saying goodbye.

evening
:

As you prepare to leave Bad Ischl, enjoy a farewell dinner at a restaurant you loved during your stay. Review the highlights of your trip, relishing in the memories you’ve created in this alpine paradise. Head to the train station or airport, looking forward to the next adventure.

Discover Bad Ischl

Read more in our Bad Ischl 2025 Travel Guide.

Bad Ischl Travel Guide