Why travel through Austria?
Travel in Austria takes you deep into the Alps, among high-altitude roads, deep blue lakes and villages nestled beneath the peaks. From the Grossglockner to Zell am See, and from Krimml Falls to the valleys of Tyrol, each stage combines hairpin bends, glaciers, mountain pastures and sweeping views. Here, the road is a central part of the experience: it climbs towards the summits, follows mountain streams and descends towards traditional inns and welcoming Alpine towns. Planet Ride integrates these landscapes into major European motorcycle journeys, with itineraries designed to combine riding pleasure, a balanced pace and the discovery of Austria.
<div>Our selection of trips : Austria</div>
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Why is Austria a major Alpine road trip destination?
Austria brings together everything that makes travelling through the Alps so appealing: spectacular mountain passes, green valleys, lakes at the end of rewarding riding days and villages with a genuine mountain culture. Its central location also makes it a natural stage on major European road trips between the Dolomites, Switzerland, Bavaria and the French Alps.
- The Grossglockner, a high mountain road reaching 2,504 metres.
- Zell am See, an Alpine town set between a lake and mountain peaks.
- Krimml Falls, a spectacular natural stage surrounded by mountains.
- Tyrol, with deep valleys, mountain pastures and winding roads.
- Hohe Tauern, where glaciers, summits and panoramas give the journey its power.
From the Grossglockner to Tyrol, the mountains set the pace
Entering Austria from the Dolomites is one of the highlights of these itineraries. After the Italian passes, the Grossglockner road opens onto a more mineral landscape dominated by high summits and glaciers. The descent towards Zell am See gradually returns to green pastures and the peaceful shores of the lake.
- Ride the hairpin bends of one of Europe’s most iconic Alpine roads.
- Watch the vegetation change as the road gains altitude.
- Stop beside Lake Zell, surrounded by mountains.
- Visit Krimml Falls before crossing the valleys of Tyrol.
- Travel from the Dolomites to Bavaria on one continuous Alpine itinerary.
Austria is therefore much more than a connection between Italy and Germany. It gives the journey some of its greatest panoramas, as well as quieter moments beside lakes, in flower-filled villages and welcoming mountain towns.
Is Austria suitable for motorcycle travel?
Austrian roads are particularly well suited to touring motorcycles and adventure bikes. Their surface, series of bends and open views create excellent riding conditions, provided the mountain passes are approached with sufficient experience and a controlled pace.
- Primarily paved stages without deliberately difficult off-road sections.
- Mountain passes requiring concentration through bends and descents.
- Riding days suited to motorcyclists accustomed to touring.
- An ideal destination for riders who value elevation and panoramic scenery.
These routes reflect the spirit of long-distance motorcycle travel: several countries, regular changes of atmosphere and a journey in which the pleasure of riding remains central.
Which Planet Ride tour should you choose for Austria?
Two active trips currently include Austria as part of a major Alpine crossing. Their routes are similar, but their duration and travel format meet different expectations.
- Crossing the Alps via the Great Mountain Passes covers 1,600 kilometres over 9 days. After the Stelvio and the Dolomites, the tour crosses the Grossglockner, reaches Zell am See, Krimml Falls and Tyrol, then continues into Bavaria.
- The Legendary Roads of the Alps by Motorcycle extends the adventure to 10 days and 1,700 kilometres. Proposed by Rodolphe, it connects Lake Geneva, major Swiss passes, the Italian lakes, the Dolomites and Austria before continuing towards Germany.
The first option is a dense and structured Alpine crossing proposed by Eric. The second devotes more time to the mountain range and is suited to riders who want to extend the experience among lakes, passes and major mountain roads.
When is the best time to travel through Austria?
Planet Ride’s itineraries use high-altitude roads. The most suitable period therefore generally runs from late spring to early autumn, when the major passes are open and conditions are favourable.
- Early summer combines green pastures with snow-covered summits.
- July and August offer long riding days but attract more traffic.
- Early autumn can provide quieter roads and particularly soft light.
- Weather conditions should be checked before every high-altitude stage.
- Effective protection against cold, wind and rain remains essential.
How should you prepare for an Austrian Alpine road trip?
The challenge comes not only from the distance but also from repeated hairpin bends, changing elevations and weather that can shift quickly. Suitable equipment and a reasonable pace help preserve energy for the final stages.
- Choose a motorcycle that is comfortable and agile through tight bends.
- Pack several technical layers that can be added or removed easily.
- Check access conditions for the mountain passes before departure.
- Allow extra time for scenic stops and viewpoints.
Why choose Planet Ride for a journey through Austria?
Planet Ride selects itineraries in which Austria plays a meaningful role in the story of the journey. The Grossglockner, Zell am See, Krimml and Tyrol form a coherent progression through five countries without artificial detours. The experience of Eric or Rodolphe helps riders choose the right pace and travel format, while proven stages and thoughtful organisation allow them to make the most of the mountains.
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