How to Drive From Vienna to Hamburg

The drive from Vienna to Hamburg looks far longer on a map than it is in actuality. The 557-mile drive (896 km) has an overwhelming number of possible stops of interest along the way, so you may wish to plan at least one overnight stay along the way.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Map
• Rental car
• Cash/credit card for fuel and any overnight stops

The Slow Route

1. The shortest drive is through the Czech Republic. However, this trip is a meandering sightseeing excursion, taking you through Western Austria and then north through Germany.
2. Driving west out of Vienna to Innsbruck, you can take the A1 through Salzburg, then south on the A12. Or you can take the A1 for a short while and then wind through several mountain passes on the 121/115/308/159/311/164/A12 roadways. Innsbruck is a quaint city and is nestled between such tall Alps that the sun's last rays of daylight disappear in the early evening. A walk through the Old Town section of Innsbruck is highly recommended.
3. Since you're in the neighborhood, why not visit at Hohenschwangau, the castle made famous by King Ludwig of Bavaria? If you leave Innsbruck around 7:00 a.m., you can travel through the Nationalpark Hohe Tauern and be in Hohenschwangau before noon.
4. Head North on E43/7, more commonly referred to as the Romantic Road, and you will find more reasons to stop and feast your eyes on the many medieval cities and buildings that dot the roadway. Rothenburg ob d. Tauber is well worth a visit before continuing north. The E45/7 will take you right into the city of Hamburg.

Tips & Warnings

• Driving on the Autobahn can be intimidating. Just remember that the far left lane is for VERY fast drivers. Best be sure that if you pull out to pass that you do so as quickly as possible. You will be amazed at how quickly someone will appear out of nowhere and be flicking their lights at you.
• If you encounter road construction on the non-Autobahn roadways, be aware that the notification of upcoming workers and equipment will not give you very much warning to slow down. Basically, you will see the see the sign and then be at the construction area. There may be flag people at the site, so if you are driving in the winter or adverse conditions, be extra cautious and slow down the moment you see the signs.