Besançon to Krems an der Donau Road Trip Guide

The drive from Besançon to Krems an der Donau spans approximately 620 miles (1,000 km) and crosses three countries: France, Switzerland (via Basel), and Austria. The route follows the A36 from Besançon to the Swiss border, then the A3/A1 past Zurich, and the A8/A1 through Salzburg to the A22 along the Danube. A lesser-known quirk: near Linz, the highway briefly passes through a 3-mile tunnel under the Danube – one of the longest river tunnels in Europe. This journey transitions from the Jura limestone plateaus to the Alpine forelands and finally the gentle vineyards of the Wachau Valley.

Geographical shifts are dramatic: from the limestone gorges and rolling pastures of the French Jura, past the alpine foothills near Zurich, into the dramatic limestone Alps near Salzburg, and finally the terraced vineyards of the Wachau Valley along the Danube. The stretch between Salzburg and Krems is particularly scenic along the B1 (not highway) from Linz to Krems, but the highway A1/A22 offers fast travel with occasional views of the Danube.

• Natural Landmarks: The Swiss National Park (detour near Zernez) is 40 km off route but worth it. The Mondsee near Salzburg is right off the highway. The Wachau Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage Site from Melk to Krems.
• UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Only one along the direct route: the Wachau Cultural Landscape (section between Melk and Krems). Near detour: Old City of Bern (1 hour off), Hallstatt-Dachstein Salzkammergut (45 min off).
• Local Commerce: In the Wachau, stop at roadside stalls for apricot jam (Marillenmarmelade) and wine from the Wachau DAC. In Switzerland, buy Appenzeller cheese at motorway rest stops. In France, pick up Comté cheese near the Jura.

How long to drive Besançon to Krems an der Donau? Nonstop it’s about 10 hours, but factor in traffic, tolls, and breaks – plan for a full day with stops. Fuel costs for an average car (7L/100km) at current European prices (€1.80/L) run approximately €126 for the entire trip. Fuel stations are plentiful on all highways; however, the A1 in Austria has rest stops roughly every 30 miles. Switzerland requires a vignette (€40 for 1 year) for highway use. Austria also requires a vignette (€9.50 for 10 days). Tolls are included in the Austrian vignette; in France and Switzerland, no additional tolls beyond the vignette except for some tunnels like the Arlberg Tunnel (if detouring).

• Fuel Efficiency Tip: Maintain 110 km/h to save up to 15% fuel. The topography includes hilly sections near the Jura and Alps, so use cruise control.
• Rest Stop Distribution: A1 Switzerland: every 20-30 km; A1 Austria: every 30 km. Notable rest stops: Raststätte Würenlos (Switzerland) has a play area.
• Toll Systems: France A36: free. Switzerland: vignette required. Austria: vignette required. No vignette needed on German roads if using a small detour via Bregenz.

Road quality is excellent on all highways. Snow is possible from November to March, especially between Salzburg and Krems; winter tires are mandatory in Austria from Nov 1 to April 15. Speed limits: France 130 km/h, Switzerland 120 km/h, Austria 130 km/h. Heavy fines for speeding. Night driving is safe with well-lit tunnels and rest areas.

• Family Stops: Swiss Transport Museum in Lucerne (30 min detour), Salzburg Zoo (Hellbrunn), and the Danube River cruise from Krems. Fun stops: Legoland Deutschland (Günzburg) is 1 hour off route near Ulm.
• Pet-Friendly Framework: Most rest stops have grassy areas for dogs. Dog-friendly cafes in Krems: Café-Konditorei Hagmann. In Switzerland, allow dogs on leash at rest stops. Petrol stations allow short walks.
• Fatigue Management: Recommended rest stops for a nap: Raststätte Aare (Switzerland, near Olten) has a quiet zone in the rest area. In Austria, Raststation Fisching (near Steyr) has shaded parking. Never nap in unlit areas.
• Hidden Off-Route Spots: The ruined castle of Burgruine Rabenstein (30 km off route near Frohnleiten) is a 5-min drive from the B311. The abandoned lamp factory in Zurich Oerlikon (10 min from A1) is a street art spot.

For more tips on finding unique stops, read how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.