Vignette Austria Travel Diary Austria: Day 2

Travel Diary Austria: Day 2

Last updated: 08.10.2026 Reading time: 10 Minutes

My second day took me away from the urban splendor of Vienna to the picturesque landscapes of Southern Styria. My first destination was the impressive Riegersburg, which sits majestically atop a volcanic rock and tells a turbulent history. From a distance, I could already see the imposing fortress, which has been expanded repeatedly over the centuries and today stands as a proud symbol of the region.

Riegersburg

The drive to the castle was an experience in itself. I passed through gentle hills, surrounded by lush vineyards and idyllic villages. Upon arriving in Riegersburg, I felt as though I had been transported to another time. I decided to take a guided tour, which led me through the castle's old walls and mysterious passages. Every room, every corner of the castle seemed to tell its own story, of brave knights, courtly intrigue, and the strategic significance of the fortress in regional history.

After soaking up the historic atmosphere of Riegersburg, I continued my journey towards Gamlitz. This charming village in Southern Styria is known for its excellent wines and picturesque landscape. Here, I wanted to explore the famous Wine Route and, of course, sample some local wine varieties.

Vineyards on the Southern Styrian Wine Road near Gamlitz with a winery and signpost

The Wine Route took me through breathtaking landscapes, past countless wineries and rustic wine taverns, where you can enjoy regional wines and traditional Styrian dishes. I stopped at a small, family-run winery, where the owners welcomed me warmly. During a wine tasting in the open air, I sampled various white wines typical of the region. Every sip was a delight, marked by the fruitiness and freshness of the grapes grown in this sun-drenched region.

After the wine tasting, I enjoyed a late lunch at the nearby Buschenschank Pölzl. The menu featured local delicacies such as a cold platter with homemade bread, bacon, cheese, and spreads. I settled down beneath the vines, enjoyed the delicious food, and gazed out over the vast vineyards.

Full of new impressions and with the taste of Styria on my tongue, I ended my second day. Southern Styria had enchanted me with its beauty, its wines, and its hospitality. With anticipation for the further adventures of my journey, I let the day come to a close.

My Other Travel Days

Feel free to follow my other travel days and explore Austria with me!

The Europamaut Team Wishes You a Pleasant Journey!

If you now feel inspired and would also like to explore Austria, we wish you a safe journey and an unforgettable travel adventure. In our guide, you will also find all the important information on toll regulations in Austria. Feel free to use our route planner for your planning. If you have any questions, you can reach us anytime by email.

FAQ

FAQ for Travel Diary Austria Day 2

Answers to the most common questions on this topic.

What is there to discover at Riegersburg?

The Riegersburg towers over southern Styria and impresses with its historical atmosphere and surrounding vineyard landscape.

Do I need a vignette to drive to Southern Styria?

Yes, the vignette requirement applies to Austrian motorways and expressways. Find out more in our guide on tolls in Austria.

What is Gamlitz known for?

Gamlitz is known for its wine route with numerous wineries and rustic wine taverns, where regional wines and Styrian specialties can be sampled.

What can I try at a Buschenschank?

Typical dishes include a Brettljause (traditional platter) with homemade spreads and bacon, as well as regional wines straight from the winery.

Michelle Albrecht
Michelle Albrecht
Hello, I’m Michelle, a writer through and through. As a copywriter, I’ve had the privilege of turning my passion into a career. I also channel my creativity into my own books, where I can truly let my imagination roam free. Ever since spending six unforgettable months in Australia, my love for travel has grown even deeper, something I didn’t think was possible. That’s why I’m especially delighted to share inspiring tips and ideas with my readers for their own future adventures.