Ultimate two-week Austrian Alps hiking guide: top trails, where to stay, and a bonus Swiss Alps finish

This ultimate two-week hiking itinerary takes you from the vibrant city of Vienna through the heart of the Austrian Alps, ending with a scenic adventure in the Swiss Alps' best-kept secret. Along the way, you'll explore charming alpine villages, world-class hiking trails, and some of the Alps' most breathtaking landscapes, all accessible by train.

Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, this guide covers the best spots for both challenging hikes and serene mountain views—and is easily my favourite adventure holiday yet.

Overview

Day 1: Fly to Vienna

Fly from your chosen city to Vienna. We flew from Manchester for £20 one-way.

Day 2: Salzburg

Catch the early train from Vienna to Salzburg to make the most of exploring this beautiful city, or book a Sound of Music or Eagle’s Nest tour.

Days 3-5: Filzmoos

Filzmoos: the true hidden gem of this entire trip. We came across this sleepy mountain village entirely by chance, and I’m so glad we did. We couldn’t believe just how quiet the trails are here, despite being home to some of the most dramatic views we’ve seen on any hike.

Days 5-8: Innsbruck

Innsbruck: a fantastic base for exploring the Tyrolean Alps, offering incredible hikes, excellent transport links, and a vibrant food scene.

Days 8-11: St. Anton am Arlberg

St. Anton: hands down my favourite stop of the trip. World-famous as a ski resort in winter, St. Anton am Arlberg truly comes to life in summer, offering a breathtaking tapestry of lush meadows, wildflowers, and enchanting hiking trails that reveal the Alps in their most serene and vibrant glory.

Day 11: Zurich Stopover

Zurich makes an ideal stopover between St. Anton and Kandersteg, offering you a chance to explore its scenic lakeside paths, lush parks, and vibrant urban green spaces — all while enjoying excellent transport links and a rich cultural experience.

Days 12-14: Kandersteg

Kandersteg, the picture-perfect ending to your alpine adventure — a quaint and traditional mountain village that seems plucked from a painting, with its tranquil lakes and majestic peaks creating a serene, picturesque backdrop to your final days in the Alps.

Day 14 (evening): Fly home from Basel

Make the most of your final day in Kandersteg by visiting the famous Oeschinen Lake, before hopping on a train to Basel and flying home to your chosen airport. We flew direct from Basel to Manchester for £29.

Day 1: Arrive in Vienna

Arriving in Vienna

Begin your adventure by flying into Vienna, Austria’s cultural and historical capital. We flew direct from Manchester. Flights typically range from £60 to £150, depending on booking time. Keep an eye out for cheap direct flights, as we flew direct from Manchester to Vienna for £20.

When you arrive, it’s worth grabbing a Vienna City Card for €17 (24 hours) or €25 (48 hours), which offers unlimited public transport and discounts on major attractions.

Things to do in Vienna

• Schönbrunn Palace: Explore this magnificent UNESCO World Heritage site, once the summer residence of the Habsburgs. The palace’s baroque architecture and sprawling gardens are a must-see.

• St. Stephen’s Cathedral: Vienna’s most iconic Gothic structure offers visitors the chance to climb its tower for panoramic views of the city’s skyline.

• Kunsthistorisches Museum: Dive into a treasure trove of art and antiquities at one of the world’s foremost museums, located on the grand Ringstrasse.

Outdoor and adventure activities in Vienna

• Wienerwald hiking trails: Just outside Vienna, the Vienna Woods offer a variety of hiking trails for all levels, providing a peaceful escape into nature. These trails are accessible by public transport and are perfect for a day hike.

• Danube Island: For outdoor enthusiasts, the 21-kilometer long Danube Island is ideal for cycling, jogging, or even windsurfing on the river.

Where to stay in Vienna

• District 7 (Neubau): Ideal for art lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, Neubau is close to the city’s largest shopping street, Mariahilferstrasse, and within walking distance of the MuseumsQuartier. It also offers easy access to the Vienna Woods for hiking.

• District 1 (Innere Stadt): For those interested in history and culture, staying in the Innere Stadt, Vienna’s historical center, allows you to be close to major attractions like St. Stephen’s Cathedral and the Hofburg Palace.

• District 2 (Leopoldstadt): Located near the Danube Island, this district is perfect for those who want to be close to outdoor activities while still enjoying easy access to the city center.

Budget tips

• Public transport: Use the Vienna City Card for free travel on Vienna’s excellent public transportation and discounts at over 200 attractions.

• Affordable dining: Enjoy local specialties like Wiener Schnitzel at a Würstelstand (sausage stand) for an authentic and budget-friendly meal.

Day 2: Train to Salzburg and visit to the Eagle’s Nest

Travel to Salzburg

On your second day, board an ÖBB Railjet train from Vienna to Salzburg, a journey that takes about 2.5 hours and costs between €25-€40. To get the best rates, book your train tickets in advance.

Salzburg, known as the birthplace of Mozart, is a city rich in Baroque architecture and musical history. While there’s SO much to do in this historical city, we used our stopover here as an opportunity to nip across to border and visit the Bavarian Alps, with a quick pit stop at the Eagle’s Nest. If you choose to visit the Eagle’s Nest during your time in Salzburg, you’ll visit the alps of three separate countries in just one two-week trip: the dream.

Visiting the Eagle’s Nest

Originally built as a retreat for Adolf Hitler, the site now serves as a museum and restaurant — and you’ll find breathtaking views across the Bavarian mountain range.

How to get to the Eagle’s Nest

From Salzburg, take a train to Berchtesgaden (€10, 40 minutes) then board Bus 838 to Obersalzberg (€3, 15 minutes). Alternatively, you can board two buses from Salzburg and purchase a day pass. Take Bus 840 directly to Berchtesgaden (€10.00) one-way. From Berchtesgaden, transfer to Bus 838, which takes you to the Documentation Centre Obersalzberg, near the Eagle’s Nest, for around €3.50 one way. Tickets can be purchased on the bus or at ticket machines, and using a Bayern Ticket may offer savings if travelling in a group.

From the Documentation Centre, you can take a bus (€40 round trip) straight up to the Eagle’s Nest (Kehlsteinhaus), or hike from the documentation centre.

Hiking from the Documentation Centre to the Eagle’s Nest

We decided to turn the visit to the Eagle’s Nest into a hike by walking up from the documentation centre. The ascent took just over an hour and a half. On all the signage, you’ll see directions pointing to the Eagle’s Nest estimating a 3-4 hour duration. We were convinced these signs are here to encourage more people to pay for the rather pricey tourist bus — even at an extremely leisurely pace, you’d struggle to complete the walk up in more than 2.5 hours.

The route up to the Eagle’s Nest is 4 miles along an accessible path, but you do gain over 2,533ft of elevation across those 4 miles, so consider whether this is for you before starting your ascent. Alternatively, we came across lots of groups who opted to take the bus up and walk down, cutting the bus fare from the documentation centre to €20 one way.

If you don’t fancy the hike up, I’d recommend booking on a tour straight from Salzburg. The cost isn’t too far off the price of the three buses for a round trip, and you’ll be driven straight there and back with a guide — including a stop inside the documentation centre (which isn’t included in the tourist bus fare).

Alternative activities in Salzburg

• Mozart’s Birthplace: Visit the home where Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was born and spent his early years. Admission is €12.

• Hohensalzburg Fortress: Take a funicular ride up to this medieval fortress overlooking Salzburg. Entry and ride together cost €13.30.

• Sound of Music tour: Experience the magic of Salzburg by joining a Sound of Music tour, which takes you to the iconic filming locations of the beloved musical amidst stunning Alpine scenery. This is the one thing we were gutted we didn’t have time for across the whole trip, and would definitely come back just for this!

  We did lots of research into the various tours in case we had time to book on, and this original tour consistently came up top (€59).
  

Outdoor and adventure activities in Salzburg

• Gaisberg mountain: Just a short bus ride from the city center, Gaisberg is a popular spot for paragliding, hiking, and mountain biking. The summit offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

• Salzach river cycling: Rent a bike and follow the scenic Salzach River cycling path, which offers beautiful views and takes you through some of Salzburg’s most picturesque landscapes.

Where to stay in Salzburg

• Altstadt (Old Town): Perfect for those who want to be in the heart of Salzburg’s cultural and historical attractions, including Mozart’s Birthplace and the Hohensalzburg Fortress.

• Lehen district: This area is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, offering easy access to the Salzach River cycling paths and the Gaisberg hiking trails.

• Maxglan district: A quieter, residential area, Maxglan offers a more local experience while still being close to the city center and the airport.

Budget tips

• Salzburg Card: Consider the Salzburg Card (€26 for 24 hours) for free entry to public transport and many attractions, though the Eagle’s Nest requires an additional fee.

• Group travel discounts: If you’re traveling with others, check out group ticket options for savings on train fares.

Day 3-5: Go back in time in Filzmoos

Travel to Filzmoos

Take a train from Salzburg to Eben im Pongau (1 hour, €15), then hop on Bus 521 to Filzmoos (30 minutes, €5). Filzmoos is a sleepy mountain village in the Dachstein mountains, offering an authentic alpine experience away from the crowds. It’s an ideal base for outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore Austria’s stunning natural landscapes. For me, Filzmoos the most surprising stop of the trip — in the best possible way.

Underrated, unassuming and a true hidden gem, I’ve never visited anywhere quite as peaceful (and oh so safe) as Filzmoos. It felt like going back in time to an age where you could leave your doors unlocked and phones didn’t exist. Heaven.

Don’t worry, though, you can get signal around here, but this village is much better appreciated with airplane mode on, and an off-the-grid mindset activated.

Hiking in Filzmoos

Filzmoos is home to, not just one of our favourite hikes of this whole trip, but one of our favourite ever hikes. The trails are SO quiet here and we just couldn’t believe how unpopulated some of these hikes were, given how truly impressive they are. We did a few routes straight from the hotel in the village centre and were blown away with the views we were met with. It’s also super easy to follow trails in the Austrian Alps, as you’ll find signage the whole way round the route.

But our absolute favourite was this hike in Hofalm. Think Dolomites vistas ever way you turn… all to yourself. Photos don’t do the scale of this place justice. Our jaws were on the floor the whole way round — and we didn’t see a single other soul for whole the duration! Crazy. The UK could never.

Other suggested hikes:

• Hofpürglhütte trail: This moderate hike provides spectacular views of the Dachstein massif and leads to the Hofpürglhütte, a charming mountain hut perfect for a rest stop.

• Bischofsmütze hike: Tackle the more challenging route to Bischofsmütze, a distinctive twin-peaked mountain that offers some of the best views in the region.

Where to stay in Filzmoos

We stayed at a family-run Alpine lodge in the heart of Filzmoos: meiZeit Lodge. Quiet and central in a prime location, situated close to the chair lifts, this cosy alpine lodge is also home to a wellness area (including sauna/spa), fitness lounge, ski and bicycle room.

Other activities

• Paragliding: Take to the skies for around €100 and enjoy an unforgettable aerial view of the Filzmoos valley.

• E-bike tours: Rent an e-bike for €35 per day to explore the area’s scenic trails with ease, making it accessible for all fitness levels.

Budget tips

• Guest pass: By staying at specific pass-approved hotels in Filzmoos (meiZeit Lodge is one of them), you get free access to the Filzmoos Summer Card. Valid from May to October, the guest pass grants you free access to local bus travel, cable car access, leisure centre access, and a range of other attractions and activities.

Day 5-8: Explore Innsbruck

Travel to Innsbruck

Travel from Filzmoos to Innsbruck by taking Bus 521 to Eben im Pongau (€5), followed by a direct train to Innsbruck (2 hours, €30). Innsbruck, known as the “Heart of the Alps,” is a city where modern urban life meets breathtaking alpine scenery. This city is a must-visit for both culture lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Things to do in Innsbruck

• Nordkette cable car: €38 for a round trip (or free with the Innsbruck Card), this cable car transports you from the city center to Nordkette, part of the Karwendel Nature Park. Here, you’ll find numerous hiking trails and some of the most stunning views in the region.

• Innsbruck Old Town: Stroll through the medieval streets of Innsbruck’s Old Town, visiting landmarks like the Golden Roof, Hofburg Palace, and the Imperial Church, each steeped in history.

Hiking in Innsbruck

While there are SO many hikes you can do in and around Innsbruck, we used it as a base to explore deeper into the Tyrolean Alps. You really are spoilt for choice in terms of trails in this part of Austria. After a lot of research, we decided on the following two hikes. One takes you to a very popular suspension bridge — the second, a great viewpoint walk that gives you the opportunity to explore a stunning lakeside village after your hike.

• Olpererhütte (2,388 m), Zillertal Alps. Famed for its panoramic view of the Schlegeisspeicher reservoir (also called Schlegeis Stausee), this deservedly popular refuge is the ultimate hiking destination in the Austrian Alps. Whether you’re dreaming about that Instagram-famous suspension bridge (official names: Kebema Brücke, Zillertaler Hängebrücke, or Olperer Panoramabrücke), or having an epic lunch view, Olperer mountain hut will likely exceed your already high expectations.

  From Innsbruck: Take the train to Mayrhofen, via Jenbach. Board bus 4102 to Schlegeisspeicher reservoir from the Mayrhofen Bahnhof Train/Bus Station.

• Bärenkopf Peak (1991 m), Pertisau. This walk takes you to the summit of a prominent mountain that stands to the south of Lake Achensee. Its summit affords picture-perfect views of Lake Achensee. It’s the only place where you can see the entire fjord-shaped lake. The hike to Bärenkopf starts at Zwölferkopf, accessible with the Karwendel-Bergbahn cableway in Pertisau. 

  From Innsbruck: Take the train to Jenbach, board bus 8332 0 towards Pertisau Karwendellift.

Further suggested hikes:

• Patscherkofel summit hike: This moderate hike starts from the Patscherkofel cable car station, offering sweeping views of the Inn Valley and the distant peaks of the Stubai Alps.

• Zirbenweg trail: A scenic trail known for its ancient stone pine trees, offering a serene hike with breathtaking views of the Alps.

Where to stay in Innsbruck

We stated at Stage 12 Hotel, directly located in the heart of Innsbruck and - wait for it - came complete with free self-laundry services… something which was much needed at this part of the trip.

Budget tips

• Innsbruck Card: For €43 (24 hours), the Innsbruck Card includes free access to public transport, entry to many attractions, including a round-trip ride on the Nordkette cable car to ‘The Top of Innsbruck’.

• Affordable lodging: Innsbruck is home to many premium hostels that help keep accommodation costs down while still enjoying a comfortable stay.

Day 8-11: Unwind in St. Anton

Travel to St. Anton

Catch a direct train from Innsbruck to St. Anton (1.5 hours, €20). St. Anton am Arlberg is world-famous for its ski slopes, but in summer, it transforms into a hiking paradise with trails that cater to all skill levels.

I don’t know what I was expecting from this charming Alpine village, but the experience we had on arrival way surpassed expectations. The minute we stepped foot off the train, the busy itinerary we had planned in our head quite literally seemed to melt away. St Anton is the sort of place that 🌿forces🌿 you to unwind. In fact, it’s the sort of village that reminds me why I love the outdoors so much in the first place — to hit pause, and stop the noise of a chatty mind.

The pace of life is so slow here (a total contrast from the hustle and bustle of Innsbruck), and is just the reset you need at this point of the trip.

Things to do in St. Anton

• St. Anton Museum: Learn about the history of skiing in the Arlberg region and St. Anton’s development as a premier resort. Admission is €5.

• Arlberg WellCom: After a long hike, unwind at this wellness center, featuring pools and saunas. Entry costs €15. Alternatively, check out the hotel we stayed at below which has its own pool and saunas.

Adventures in St. Anton

While there are so many huge, impressive and breathtaking hikes you can choose from in St. Anton, not only will your legs want a break at this point of the trip, but you can do gruelling hikes anywhere (yep, even back home!). My personal recommendation is to use this stop as a place to recharge, soak up the calming vibes, and explore the area by bike, instead.

We went on a half day e-bike tour through the Tyrolean countryside and, despite some of the impressive views we’d seen across the hikes so far, this was one of my favourite days of the whole getaway. Not much beats the sun shining, riding through a mountainous valley to an alpine lake, and stopping off at mountain huts along the way. Perfection.

You can book e-bike tours directly through the hotel below who host their own, or alternatively you’ll find plenty of providers in the village itself.

Suggested hikes:

• Valluga mountain hike: Take the Valluga cable car (€35 round trip) to the summit, where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking 360-degree views of the surrounding Alps.

• Lechweg trail: Explore part of this long-distance trail that winds through picturesque landscapes, offering both challenge and beauty.

Where to stay in St. Anton

While St. Anton was my favourite place of this entire trip, I’d go to just about any location in the world to stay at this hotel again — a real highlight of the trip. Think dreamy decor, the best food you’ll ever eat (and that’s coming from a ‘picky’ vegetarian eater), and slow days in the spa after a long day adventuring. We’ll definitely be back.

Budget tips

• Hiking passes: Purchase a multi-day hiking pass if you plan to use the cable cars frequently, saving money on individual tickets.

• St Anton Summer Card (valid June—October): The St Anton Cummer card provides you with a host of possibilities to discover the region across the villages of St Anton am Arlberg, Pettneu, Flirsch and Strengen. You get your St. Anton Summer Card free of charge on the first day of your vacation from your host. It’s valid until your day of departure and provides you with many activities throughout the region. See here for more details.

Day 11: Zurich stopover

Travel to Zurich

Travel from St. Anton to Zurich by train (2.5 hours, €40-€60). Zurich, Switzerland’s largest city, is known for its stunning blend of historic charm and modern sophistication. It’s the perfect city to explore before heading deeper into the Swiss Alps.

Things to do in Zurich

• Lake Zurich: Enjoy a relaxing boat cruise on Lake Zurich for €8-€10, or simply take in the serene views from the lake’s edge.

• Old Town (Altstadt): Wander through Zurich’s Old Town, filled with medieval buildings, cozy cafes, and unique shops that evoke the city’s rich history.

• Swiss National Museum: Dive into Swiss culture and history at the Swiss National Museum, with entry priced at €10.

Outdoor and adventure activities in Zurich

• Uetliberg mountain: Take a short train ride to Uetliberg (€8), Zurich’s local mountain, offering panoramic views of the city and Lake Zurich. The hike to the summit is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

• Zurich river swimming: For a unique outdoor experience, join the locals in swimming in the clear waters of the Limmat River. Public swimming spots like the Flussbad Oberer Letten are free and offer a refreshing way to cool off.

Where to stay in Zurich

• District 4 (Langstrasse): Ideal for budget travelers and those looking to stay in a lively area with plenty of bars, restaurants, and easy access to public transport.

• District 1 (Altstadt): Perfect for history buffs and those who want to be within walking distance of Zurich’s major attractions, including Lake Zurich and the Old Town.

• District 8 (Seefeld): This district is great for outdoor enthusiasts, with its proximity to Lake Zurich and Uetliberg Mountain, offering plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, and water sports.

Budget tips

• Swiss Travel Pass: The Swiss Travel Pass is ideal for the final leg of the trip, offering unlimited travel on trains, buses, and boats across Switzerland, plus free entry to many museums. Prices start at €232 for 3 consecutive days.

• Zurich Card: For €27 (24 hours), the Zurich Card provides unlimited travel on public transport and free or discounted entry to museums and attractions.

Day 11-14: Kandersteg and the Swiss Alps

Travel to Kandersteg

Take a direct train from Zurich to Kandersteg (2.5 hours, €40-€50). Kandersteg, located in the Bernese Oberland, is a charming alpine village surrounded by towering peaks and crystal-clear lakes. It’s an idyllic spot for hikers, climbers, and anyone looking to experience the pristine beauty of the Swiss Alps.

Things to do in Kandersteg

• Oeschinensee lake: Take a cable car (€22 round trip) to Oeschinensee, one of the most beautiful alpine lakes in Switzerland. Here, you can hike, rowboat, or simply enjoy the stunning scenery.

• Via Ferrata climbing: For those seeking a thrill, Kandersteg offers several Via Ferrata routes, combining hiking with secured climbing along metal rungs and cables.

Suggested hikes:

• Gemmi Pass hike: This historic trail offers breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and takes you from Kandersteg to Leukerbad.

• Blüemlisalp mountain hut: A challenging hike that rewards adventurers with spectacular views and the chance to stay overnight in a traditional Swiss mountain hut.

Where to stay in Kandersteg

We stayed at Hotel Ermitage which is literally metres away from the cable car to the famous Lake Oeschienensee. We saw a lot of alpine lakes on this trip, but I have to say that Oeschinen lake (or Oeschinensee in German) is really one of my favourites. Surrounded by a cirque of impressive mountains, its crystalline waters with multiple shades of blue (even green) provide unforgettable landscapes to tourists and hikers.

Budget tips

• Hiking passes: Purchase a Kandersteg Hiking Pass for unlimited use of the cable cars during your stay, offering savings on multiple trips.

• Food shopping: Save on meals by shopping at local grocery stores like Coop or Migros, where you can buy fresh produce and snacks for your hikes.

Day 14: Travel from Kandersteg to Basel

On the final day of your Alpine adventure, you'll travel from Kandersteg to Basel to you'll catch your flight home. The journey from Kandersteg to Basel is straightforward and offers a relaxing end to your trip.

Getting from Kandersteg to Basel:

• Train: The easiest way to reach Basel is by taking the train from Kandersteg. The journey typically takes around 2 hours and 30 minutes, with a convenient transfer at Bern. The Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) operates frequent services, ensuring you have multiple options throughout the day. Prices vary, but standard fares are around CHF 50-70.

• Scenery: As you travel, you'll enjoy a final look at the stunning Swiss landscapes, transitioning from alpine valleys to the more urban surroundings of Basel.

Basel Airport (EuroAirport):

• Basel’s EuroAirport is located just 15 minutes from the city center by shuttle bus, which you can catch directly from the main train station. The airport serves numerous international destinations, including direct flights back to Manchester.

Additional tips and budget-saving hacks

Interrail Pass

For those planning extensive train travel across multiple countries, an Interrail Global Pass is a cost-effective option. Prices start at €185 for a 4-day pass within 1 month, offering flexibility and significant savings, especially in Switzerland, where train travel can be pricey.

ÖBB SparSchiene tickets

In Austria, the ÖBB SparSchiene tickets offer discounted rates for long-distance travel if booked in advance. These tickets are available from as low as €19 for trips between major cities like Vienna and Salzburg.

Swiss Half Fare Card

If you’re planning to spend a significant amount of time in Switzerland, consider the Swiss Half Fare Card, which costs CHF 120 (€110) and allows you to purchase tickets for trains, buses, and boats at half price for a month.

Austria and Switzerland combined travel pass

The Austria-Switzerland Travel Pass, available for €330, offers unlimited travel on trains in both countries for 8 consecutive days. This is ideal if your itinerary involves significant cross-border travel.

Group and family discounts

Many train operators in both Austria and Switzerland offer group discounts. If you’re traveling with family or friends, be sure to check out the group ticket options, which can provide substantial savings.

City cards

Consider purchasing city cards like the Vienna City Card, Salzburg Card, Innsbruck Card, and Zurich Card. These cards offer unlimited public transport, free entry to major attractions, and discounts, making them a great value for tourists.

By planning ahead and taking advantage of these money-saving tips, you can fully enjoy your Alpine adventure without breaking the bank.