salzburg trip budget

17 Free Things to Do in Salzburg: One Day Budget Itinerary

Salzburg has quickly become one of my favorite cities. How? Why? Well…

Not only does Salzburg offer a wide variety of experiences, but there are also numerous places to visit and activities to enjoy that are completely free and won’t break the bank . From history to breathtaking scenery, music to architectural beauty, there are costless and affordable things for everyone to do in Salzburg!

Today, I’ll help you discover the best free and affordable activities and attractions in Salzburg . And as a bonus, I’ve also included a budget-friendly one day Salzburg itinerary to help you make the most of your day in the city without spending too much money. Let’s dive in!

This post may contain affiliate links. I may receive a tiny commission at no additional cost to you from any qualifying purchases using the link.

Traveling is one of the most rewarding and enriching experiences in life. However, it does not have to be expensive or luxurious to be enjoyable.

In fact, sometimes the best way to travel is to embrace the simplicity and authenticity of the places we visit , and to immerse ourselves in the culture and nature of the destination.

This post should help you with that.

While there are plenty of free things to do in Salzburg, it’s important to remember that you’ll likely need to spend some money on experiences to make the most of your visit.

Many of the top attractions in the city have admission fees, but don’t worry — they’re affordable.

In fact, the last time I checked, most of the admission fees were only a few dollars .

You won’t have to spend more than about $20 on each one.

Nevertheless, the prices are definitely worth the value. You’ll find amazing experiences and beautiful sights that make the cost more than worth it.

Free Things to Do in Salzburg

Yes, it can be difficult to avoid spending money while traveling in Salzburg, but there are plenty of free activities and attractions that can make your trip unique, fun, and memorable.

And the best part?

You don’t even have to leave the Old Town Salzburg or the core area of the UNESCO Heritage Site of the Historic Center of Salzburg to find them.

All these free things to do are within walking distance of each other, and you can use the city’s infrastructure, like the funicular and elevator , to make getting around even easier. 

The Old Town of Salzburg is just a 10-to-15-minute walk from the train station , depending on your pace.

If you want to start your trip to Salzburg quickly and effortlessly, you can take a bus that will cut your travel time in half.

The Mirabell Palace and Garden is the closest free attraction to the train station, so it’s the first place we’ll talk about.

Note : The free activities and attractions listed below are arranged in the order you would naturally come across if you were starting from the train station . You can check the resources section of this post for the official websites of some attractions listed below.

1. Appreciate the Beauty of Mirabell Palace Marble Hall

One of the things that made me love Salzburg even more is that one of its highlights, the Mirabell Palace, is open to visitors for free. 

This 17th-century palace, which was reconstructed a century later, now partly serves as a government office. 

However, visitors are still allowed to enter and see its most impressive features — the magnificent Marble Hall and staircase.

Step inside to admire the intricate capitals and stucco work of the hall, as well as the charming cherubs that decorate the marble balustrade and the sculptures in the niches. 

The name Mirabell comes from the words ‘mirabile’ meaning admirable, and ‘bello’ meaning beautiful. 

Once you’ve visited the Marble Hall, one of the finest examples of European baroque architecture, you’ll surely agree with this choice of name.

2. Relive the Sound of Music Movie at Mirabell Garden

Visitors are also welcome to explore without a fee the beautiful Mirabell Palace garden, which is the most famous filming location for the Sound of Music movie in Salzburg.

Six parts of the garden were featured in the film, including the Pegasus Fountain, Grand Fountain, Hedge Theater, Dwarf Garden, Rose Garden, and Orangery.

As these areas still look very similar to how they appeared in the movie, fans of the Sound of Music will feel nostalgic when visiting.

For those who enjoy photography, Mirabell Garden offers stunning photo opportunities that you won’t want to miss in Salzburg.

The grand and small parterre of Mirabell Garden are oriented towards Hohensalzburg Fortress and provide inspiration for amazing photos.

If you want to learn more about Mirabell Palace and Garden, check out my post on 5 Reasons Why You Must Visit Mirabell Palace to make the most of your visit.

3. Watch the Sunrise at Hettwer Bastei (Bastion)

You can also experience a very special sunrise and sunset in Salzburg for free.

Simply head to the Hettwer Bastei bastion in Kapuzinerberg during the Golden Hour and you’ll be rewarded with one of the most magical and breathtaking views in Salzburg.

Hettwer Bastei offers an overlooking view of Old Town Salzburg with a closer look at Hohensalzburg Fortress.

You’ll love the spectacular moment when the setting or rising sun makes Hohensalzburg Fortress glow with warm light.

There are two ways to get to Hettwer Bastion: Stefan-Zweig-Weg and Imbergstiege. Both are accessible from Old Town Salzburg and near Mirabell Palace.

A tip: take the Stefan-Zweig-Weg path on your way up as it is less steep than Imbergstiege, which is mostly stairs.

If you’d like, you can bring snacks to Hettwer Bastion so you can eat while taking in the view of Old Town Salzburg during the Golden Hour.

There are benches in the bastion, so no need to worry about standing for too long.

For more information about getting to Hettwer Bastion, check out my article, Visiting Kapuzinerberg: Best Views of Old Town Salzburg , to help you make the most of your visit.

4. See the Best View of Old Town Salzburg from Müllnersteg

If you’re into photography or simply want to see a view straight out of a fairytale in Salzburg, Müllnersteg is a free place you can visit to satisfy your visual cravings.

Müllnersteg is a bridge over the Salzach River that offers a view of Old Town Salzburg, reminiscent of Mont Saint Michel in France.

From the bridge, you can see Old Town Salzburg rising above the Salzach River with Hohensalzburg Fortress on top.

The view includes the spire of the Evangelical Parish Salzburg Christ Church overlooking the Salzach River from the riverbank, adding charm to the picturesque scene.

If you’re coming from Mirabell Palace, you can quickly reach Müllnersteg through the northern gate of Mirabell Gardens. From there, it’s only a 5-minute walk to the bridge.

5. Romantic Walk at Marko-Feingold-Steg

If you’re traveling to Salzburg with your special someone, be sure to visit Marko-Feingold-Steg or Makartsteg, the footbridge closest to the southern gate of Mirabell Gardens.

Often called the Love Lock Bridge, it’s considered the most romantic bridge in Salzburg.

From here, you can see a lovely panoramic view of Old Town Salzburg, similar to the view from Müllnersteg but much closer.

With such a beautiful scene, it’s easy to understand why people love to commemorate their unbreakable bond by attaching padlocks to the bridge’s railings.

Like other viewpoints of Old Town Salzburg, it’s nice to watch the sunrise or sunset from Marko-Feingold-Steg.

However, since it’s easily accessible, it can get crowded during these golden hours, making the moment less special.

For a more intimate sunrise or sunset experience, I would recommend finding another location.

6. Be Charmed by the Wrought-Iron Shop Signs in Getreidegasse

Getreidegasse is another highlight of visiting Salzburg, and like Mirabell Palace and Garden, it’s free to visit!

This street is a unique shopping district in Salzburg, characterized by its wrought-iron shop signs and beautiful architecture, including charming doorways.

After exploring Getreidegasse, you might wish your hometown had a delightful shopping district like this.

In Getreidegasse, you’ll find a wide selection of shops selling everything from jewelry and antiques to leather goods and groceries.

However, aside from these and the wrought-iron shop signs, there are three things you won’t want to miss when visiting Getreidegasse.

First is the famous “puppet woman” with her brown basket, who has been selling puppets on this street since 1987.

Another is the Wieber shop, a traditional metalworking business that still manufactures these “advertising signs” by hand.

Last but not least is Mozart’s Birthplace, one of the highlights of Getreidegasse where you can learn more about Mozart and Salzburg’s musical heritage.

At the western end of Getreidegasse, you’ll find Saint Blaise’s Church, which looks magical thanks to the vines covering its facade.

7. Get Sound of Music Nostalgia from Pferdeschwemme

Just a few steps south of St. Blaise’s Church and Getreidegasse is the early 17th-century Horse Pond or Pferdeschwemme fountain.

Visiting this landmark is one of the free things you can do in Salzburg to get a glimpse of the events in the city that happened in the past.

In its heyday, Pferdeschwemme was where the prince archbishops’ parade horses were washed.

When you visit, take a look at the “Horse Tamer” statue and the unique frescoes on the back wall of the Horse Pond, which evoke some of the customs of that time.

What’s notable about Pferdeschwemme is that it was created by Johann Bernhard Fischer von Erlach. 

He is an Austrian architect, sculptor, engraver, and architectural historian whose Baroque architecture profoundly influenced and shaped the tastes of the Habsburg Empire.

Pferdeschwemme isn’t just for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts; fans of the Sound of Music movie will also feel nostalgic here as it was featured in the film.

If you’ve seen the movie, you’ll surely recall the scene where Maria and the Trapp children marvel at the famous square and unique Horse Pond during a carriage ride through Salzburg.

8. Discover Siegmundstor: The Oldest Tunnel in Austria

You don’t need to pay for a ride to see one of Austria’s notable infrastructures if you’re in Salzburg.

Siegmundstor, the oldest road tunnel in Austria, is located within the historic center of Salzburg, right next to Pferdeschwemme!

It passes through Mönchsberg, the mountain that serves as the natural wall of Old Town Salzburg to the west.

Like visiting Pferdeschwemme, seeing Siegmundstor offers a free glimpse into Salzburg’s past.

The tunnel dates back to the second half of the 18th century, during the rule of Prince-Archbishop Sigismund von Schrattenbach, who envisioned an easy way for people to move between Old Town Salzburg and the Riedenburg quarter.

Siegmundstor isn’t just a simple tunnel; it was decorated by the Hagenauer brothers with sculptures and inscriptions, making it an emblematic work of art.

If you look closely at the arches on the Old Town side, you’ll see an emblem with a portrait of Prince Archbishop Schrattenbach.

9. Admire the Interiors of the Franciscan Church

For architecture enthusiasts seeking visual pleasure or Catholics looking for a peaceful moment to pray during their visit to Salzburg, the Franciscan Church is one of the best free places to visit.

Its unique architecture combines Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque styles, making it one of the most distinctive churches in Salzburg.

Even without consulting Wikipedia, its architecture reveals its age and how it has evolved over the centuries.

In fact, the first church on this site was built in the eighth century!

I am particularly captivated by the impressive rib-vaulted ceiling of the Franciscan Church. The columns and ceiling blend seamlessly together.

When you look up at the ceiling, you’ll be inspired to take photos, too!

And wait until you see the nine chapels decorated in Baroque style by Johann Bernhard Fischer von Erlach in the eighteenth century.

The intricate stucco work on the chapels is as stunning as what you’ll see in Salzburg Cathedral.

The Franciscan Church also has a hidden gem to discover: the decoration on the staircase of the pulpit.

Dating back to the 12th century, it depicts a marble lion standing over a man with a painful grimace on his face, pushing his sword into the lion’s belly.

10. Wander in the St. Peter’s Abbey, Church, and Cemetery

Salzburg is one of the cities in Central Europe that offers a diverse experience, but its rich religious heritage sets it apart from its neighboring cities.

You can easily see this by visiting Saint Peter’s Abbey, one of the top free attractions in the city for discovering its religious heritage.

Its age is a testament to its significance: Saint Peter’s Abbey was founded in the 7th century, making it the oldest monastery in the German-speaking world.

Visitors are allowed to see three parts of Saint Peter’s Abbey: the Church, Cemetery, and Catacombs.

There is a small fee to enter the Catacombs, but visitors are free to wander around the Church and Cemetery, which are home to beautiful architecture and more.

Like the Franciscan Church, Saint Peter’s Church is an architectural gem and a feast for the eyes.

Remodeled several times throughout its more than 1300-year history, the church features a mix of architectural styles including Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, and Rococo.

As you explore its interiors, notice the large square murals on the walls, ceiling, and dome of the church; they tell religious stories.

In the other hand, the cemeteries in Salzburg are beautiful, and the cemetery at Saint Peter’s Abbey is no exception.

The elaborate wrought-iron grave crosses remove any creepy feelings one might have in a graveyard and give the impression that there is beauty even in death.

If you’re a fan of the Sound of Music movie and want to see all its filming locations in Salzburg, be sure to visit the Cemetery and Catacombs at Saint Peter’s Abbey.

11. Take Photo Souvenirs at Kapitelschwemme

Salzburg is a picturesque city with many spots where you can go for free to see its picture-perfect appearance for yourself.

One such spot is in front of Kapitelschwemme, the Chapter Fountain, in Kapitelplatz, the Chapter Square.

From here, you can see and take a photo of Hohensalzburg Fortress from a unique perspective below.

With such an iconic view, be sure to capture your photo souvenir of Salzburg here by asking someone to take your picture or taking a selfie!

Like Pferdeschwemme, Kapitelschwemme was once a place for horses, but this one was for them to drink water.

12. See Another Santa Scala in Cajetan Church

Salzburg is a city full of churches, many of which you can visit for free.

In addition to Saint Peter’s Church and the Franciscan Church, one church that is definitely worth seeing is the Cajetan Church, located just across from the Federal Province’s Courthouse in Kajetanerplatz.

Its construction is said to have started the Italian Baroque style in Salzburg.

The church is big, imposing, and only has a cross on top of its dome to show that it is a church.

So, when you arrive at Kajetanerplatz, you might even mistake it for a palace! However, the interiors give the opposite impression.

The inside of the Cajetan Church is filled with stucco works that create a holy, festive, and stately atmosphere.

And once you are inside, do not forget to look up at the dome, which is painted with the assumption of St. Cajetan to heaven.

Light streams in through the dome, giving the church an aura of holiness and purity.

If you can, try to visit the Cajetan Church on a Saturday between 11:00 am and 12:00 pm.

That is when you can see the church’s copy of Santa Scala or Holy Stairs in Rome, which for me, is the main reason to visit Cajetan Church.

The Holy Stairs are said to have been brought from the palace of Pilate in Jerusalem by the mother of Emperor Constantine.

Many believe these stairs are just as holy as the original ones.

13. See the Miraculous Fountain In St. Erhard’s Church

If you’re an architecture enthusiast or a Catholic like myself, you may be interested in visiting Saint Erhard’s Church.

Entry is free and it’s located in Nonntal, one of the oldest residential areas to the south of Festungsberg.

The church is not just a place of worship, but also an architectural gem that dates back to the city’s golden age of Italian Baroque style.

With a consistent Italian Baroque style inside, many regard it as one of the most notable religious landmarks in the city.

The dome and the surrounding high relief and stucco works are especially stunning.

The light that enters through the intricate dome casts a dramatic appearance on the sculpture of the founding bishops: Saint Vitalis, Saint Virgil, Saint Rupert, and Saint Martin of Tours.

When you visit, be sure to also check out the wall fountain, adorned with a lion’s head gargoyle.

The water in the fountain is said to come from a mineral spring with purifying and life-giving properties and was considered miraculous until the mid-19th century.

It’s still used as drinking water today.

If you’re curious about other fountains with drinking water in Salzburg, check out the map linked in the resources section of this post.

14. Listen to the Nuns at Nonnberg Abbey

Did you know that Salzburg is home to Nonnberg Abbey, the oldest continuously existing nunnery in the German-speaking world?

Located in Festungsberg beside Hohensalzburg Fortress, Nonnberg Abbey has been in existence since the early 8th century.

Featured in the movie The Sound of Music, it has become a popular attraction, especially for fans of the film.

However, there’s a unique and authentic experience waiting for you here.

Every morning, the nuns of Nonnberg Abbey sing Gregorian Chants in chorus, which is absolutely hair-raising.

This beautiful sound has been a long tradition of the nuns at Nonnberg Abbey.

To hear them sing, be sure to arrive at Nonnberg Abbey by 6:45 am.

If you come during midday, you can still enter Nonnberg Church and explore its cemetery to see the beautiful wrought iron grave crosses.

Entrance is free! 

For more information about Nonnberg Abbey, please check out the post “ Visiting Nonnberg Abbey in Salzburg: Tips and Information .”

15. Relax with the View of the Alps from Richterhöhe

Salzburg, being only a few kilometers away from the Alps, offers several free places where you can unwind and enjoy the mountain views.

These spots are great alternatives to expensive shops and restaurants with nice views, especially on sunny, dry, and warm days.

One of these best places for a peaceful and picturesque experience in Salzburg is Richterhöhe — the highest peak of Mönchsberg — the mountain next to Festungsberg.

At an elevation of 507 meters, here, you’ll be rewarded with unobstructed views of the Alps.

You can also see a stunning view of Hohensalzburg Fortress, which is especially great for photographers.

But, that’s not all. Richterhöhe is part of the medieval fortifications around the city, so you’ll see medieval towers and crenelated walls along the way.

What’s more? There are also benches facing the view where you can take a break and relax.

If you’re from Hohensalzburg Fortress, you can expect to have a 10-minute hike to reach Richterhöhe.

For more information, check out the post “ Monchsberg and The 5 Things to Do on This Mountain .”

16. Watch the Sunset from Mönchsberg

Watching the sunset in Salzburg from the most unique perspective of the Old Town is free, too!

The sunset spot is called Humboldt Terrace and it’s also located in Mönchsberg.

Humboldt Terrace was built in the 17th century as a cavalier of the Mönchsberg fortifications under Prince Archbishop Paris Lodron and served as a gun emplacement to combat the threat of the Thirty Years’ War.

Nestled on the side of a mountain cliff, this hidden gem is definitely worth considering.

From this former military lookout, you can enjoy some of the best views of Salzburg.

You will see the entire northern part of the city, stretching all the way to Kapuzinerberg, Salzach River, and Hohensalzburg Fortress atop Festungsberg.

Every part of the Old City is visible, and you can even see the winding shape of the Salzach River.

To reach Humboldt Terrace from Old Town Salzburg, take the Mönchsberg elevator.

Once you’re at the top, it’s just a short hike northward to Humboldt Terrace, passing by Museum der Moderne.

Along the trail, you’ll find a stone staircase on your right that leads down to the platform.

Humboldt Terrace has benches where you can relax, but there are only a few of them.

If you’re interested in history, you’ll find the information board at Humboldt Terrace quite fascinating.

Spoiler alert: it’s about the former Trompeterschlössl on Kapuzinerberg and the regulation of the Salzach River in the 19th century. 

If you missed reading my article about Mönchsberg, here’s the link to the article ( 5 Things to Do in Monchsberg ) to learn more about Humboldt Terrace. 

17. Climb to Franziskischlössl on top of Kapuzinerberg

For those who want to take their time exploring Salzburg, hiking in Kapuzinerberg is a great way to experience the natural beauty of the city’s historic center.

The hiking trail is free and open to everyone, and along the way, you’ll see breathtaking views of Old Town Salzburg, a higher perspective of Hohensalzburg Fortress, and hidden gems like Mozart’s monument and a wooden fountain.

The hike extends from Hettwer Bastion to Franziskischlössl, the fortress at the top of the mountain.

The round trip can take between 1.5 and 2.5 hours, depending on your pace.

For more information, you can check out the article about visiting Kapuzinerberg again.

Affordable Things to Do in Salzburg

While it’s great to save money by visiting only the free attractions and experiences in the city, it would be a shame to miss out on the city’s highlights, especially when admission fees and tickets cost only a few dollars or euros.

1. Explore Mozart’s Birthplace

As you explore Getreidegasse, one of the highlights of Salzburg that you’ll encounter is Mozart’s Birthplace.

This museum, dedicated to the life and legacy of the famous composer, is a unique attraction that can only be found in Salzburg.

When you step inside, you’ll discover a wealth of information about Mozart, from his childhood to his lasting impact on the world of music.

You’ll see the first musical instruments he played, learn about his family and their influence on his work, and much more.

His story is not only fascinating but also inspiring, as you’ll see how he overcame challenges and adversity to become one of the greatest musicians of all time.

Don’t miss this opportunity to learn more about Mozart and his incredible life.

If you want to learn more about Mozart’s Birthplace, here’s my article where you can find insights and visiting information— Mozart’s Birthplace: Interesting Things to Discover Inside .

2. Visit Hohensalzburg Fortress

If you have a very limited time in Salzburg, you can skip other highlights of the city but not Hohensalzburg Fortress. 

This fortress, perched atop Festungsberg, offers a wealth of experiences for visitors.

From Salzburg’s rich history to its musical heritage, from its breathtaking views to a few fascinating museums, there’s so much to see and do at Hohensalzburg Fortress.

And if you’re a fan of old architecture, you’ll love exploring the Princely Chambers.

Don’t be intimidated by the fortress’s location on top of a mountain – it’s easily accessible from Old Town Salzburg via a funicular, so getting there is half the fun!

To learn more about what Hohensalzburg Fortress has to offer, check out my article “ Visiting Salzburg Fortress Hohensalzburg: What to Do Inside .”

Here’s where you can check the current price of the entry tickets to Hohensalzburg Fortress .

3. Boat Ride in Salzach River

River, city, mountains—Salzburg has a beautiful landscape. What’s the most relaxing way to explore it? A cruise in Salzach River. 

During the cruise, you’ll have the opportunity to join a boat tour along the Salzach River, which will showcase the highlights of the city from a unique perspective on the water.

As you sit back and relax, you’ll glide along the river, taking in the magical skyline of Salzburg.

 You’ll also have the chance to unwind as you enjoy breathtaking views of the Hagen and Tennen mountains, as well as panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape.

If you’re interested, here’s where you can check the current price of the Salzach River cruise tickets .

4. Discover DomQuartier Museums and Salzburg Cathedral

Interested in discovering Salzburg’s heritage in one shot? DomQuartier is the place to be.

This stately compound, located in the heart of the city, is composed of several attractions that can be accessed with a single ticket.

In total, DomQuartier offers nine different experiences that encompass religious heritage, history, art, and nature.

Some of the most interesting parts include the State Rooms of the Residenz, where you can catch a glimpse of the lives of the prince-archbishops, the terrace above the cathedral arches which offers beautiful views of the Old Town center, and the Cathedral Museum where you can discover the treasures of the archdiocese of Salzburg.

For art lovers, there’s the internationally acclaimed exhibition of European painting in the Residenz Gallery and the Chamber of Art and Wonders which features exhibits and curiosities from art and nature.

If you’re interested in learning about who ruled Salzburg for centuries, be sure to visit the Long Gallery.

You can also discover Salzburg’s religious heritage at St. Peter’s Museum and Cathedral Organ Loft, where you’ll find exhibits from the Archabbey of Saint Peter including timeless religious treasures.

Lastly, don’t miss out on the special exhibitions in North Oratory.

You can learn more about DomQuartier and the current ticket prices for entry to Domquartier here .

5. Explore and Attend a Concert in Salzburg Cathedral

Salzburg Cathedral is not only the spiritual center of Salzburg but also one of the city’s architectural highlights, making it a must-visit attraction.

There are many things I can tell you about the architecture of Salzburg Cathedral, but it’s stuccoes are what caught my attention the most.

The cathedral’s magnificent interiors are heavily elaborated with unique stuccoes, which are outlined with gray paint to give them extra visual dimensions.

When visiting Salzburg Cathedral, you can learn so much not only about the history of the cathedral and important architectural details of this religious structure but also about Catholicism — all discussed by the audio guides.

So, consider acquiring audio guides when you visit because they are key to learning and enjoying more of your visit.

Another interesting feature of Salzburg Cathedral is its organs.

The cathedral has five organs, giving its visitors an extraordinary listening experience that’s unique among churches north of the Alps.

If you would like to experience it for yourself, I suggest attending the Organ Concert at Midday .

To learn more about Salzburg Cathedral, here’s my “ Salzburg Cathedral Complete Guide ” that includes everything that you must know when you visit.

One Day Salzburg Itinerary (on a Budget)

Salzburg has over a dozen free and affordable things to do, so it’s easy to spend a day there on a budget.

However, if you only have one day in Salzburg, it’s not recommended to only do the free activities and visit the admission-free places of interest.

It’s a good idea to include at least one of these four attractions in your itinerary: Hohensalzburg Fortress, Salzburg Cathedral, Mozart’s Birthplace, or DomQuartier.

But if you need a ready-made itinerary or an idea of how you can spend a day in Salzburg without breaking a bank, you arrived at the right place.

Let’s start!

If possible, try to spend the whole day in Salzburg, from sunrise to sunset.

This will allow you to make the most of your visit and see the best sights in the city without the crowds of tourists and during the golden hours.

To fit everyone, I made the train station of Salzburg as our starting point of this trip. 

By the way, here are more ways to explore Salzburg:

Old Town Salzburg Walking Tour Map (Highlights & Viewpoints)

Two Days in Salzburg Itinerary: Old Town and a Day Trip

Three Days in Salzburg Itinerary: Complete And Laid Back

Click to open in a new tab.

Morning in Salzburg

The morning part of this one-day budget itinerary is designed to let you experience the free highlights of Salzburg without the crowds.

We’ll aim to visit Mirabell Palace, Mirabell Gardens, and Getreidegasse early in the morning before these places get busy during midday.

The first destination on this itinerary is Hettwer Bastion , where you can watch the sunrise.

However, if the weather isn’t favorable, it’s better to go straight to Mirabell Garden .

Keep in mind that sunrise in Salzburg happens around 5:15 am during summer and almost 8:00 am during winter.

To get to Hettwer Bastion quickly, you can take the bus to Makartplatz. This will cut the 15-minute walking time from the train station in half.

Makartplatz is also where the southern gate of Mirabell Garden is located, so it’s convenient whether you’re going to Hettwer Bastion or Mirabell Palace or Garden.

After visiting Mirabell Palace, the next stop is Getreidegasse , which is located on the other side of the Salzach River. If you haven’t had breakfast yet, there are many options to choose from on Getreidegasse.

For a better experience (romantic) in getting to Getreidegasse, cross the river via Marko-Feingold-Steg bridge .

Exploring Getreidegasse can take anywhere from a few minutes to an hour, depending on whether you want to eat or spend more time taking pictures and looking at the small details.

While you’re there, you might also want to visit Mozart’s Birthplace , which usually takes at least an hour to explore.

From Getreidegasse, you have several options for your next destination, including nearby attractions like Pferdeschwemme , Seigmundstor , Franciscan Church , and Saint Peter’s Abbey .

Any of these attractions should keep you busy until lunchtime.

The next activity on the itinerary is a noontime organ concert in Salzburg Cathedral . 

If you think you’ll be hungry before noon, it’s a good idea to have lunch before heading to the cathedral.

Afternoon in Salzburg

In the afternoon, we’ll aim to make the most of your time at Hohensalzburg Fortress by visiting every part of it.

Keep in mind that, in addition to the main parts of the fortress and the castle museum, Hohensalzburg Fortress also has four other museums worth seeing.

It may take you 3 to 4 hours to see everything in the fortress.

After visiting Hohensalzburg Fortress, you have three options.

First, you can spend time outdoors enjoying the incredible views.

You could either hike to the viewpoints in Monchsberg like Richterhöhe or Humboldt Terrace for breathtaking experiences or take a relaxing cruise on the River Salzach .

If the weather isn’t nice, your other options are to visit some of the churches, such as Nonnberg Abbey, Cajetan Church, and Saint Erhard’s Church , or to explore DomQuartier .

If you’re staying in Salzburg tonight, here’s a unique, very interesting, and budget-friendly tour you can join — Salzburg Ghost Tour .

Resources: A Day in Salzburg

For information about the different tourist attractions you can visit for free in Salzburg, such as visiting information and announcements, please refer to the links provided below.

• Map of Salzburg
• DomQuartier Salzburg
• Franciscan Church Salzburg
• St. Peter’s Abbey
• Cajetan Church
• St. Erhard’s Church

If you’re planning a trip to Salzburg and still creating your itinerary, these articles can help you discover tourist attractions in Salzburg that may interest you:

Maximize your Salzburg adventure by checking out these Salzburg Travel Inspiration posts. They’ll help you find the perfect experiences to suit your preferences

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10 Unique Things to Do in Salzburg, Austria

The Beauty of Salzburg: 7 Beautiful Things to See

5 Spots In Salzburg to see Sunset or Sunrise (With a Map)

20 Sights and Landmarks in Salzburg: History & Architecture

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Where to Stay in Salzburg

If you’re planning to stay in Salzburg for a couple of days or more and haven’t booked your accommodation yet, you can use this link to find the best hotel deals in Salzburg .

The hotel browser features a map to help you quickly find a hotel in the most convenient location.

It’s a good idea to plan ahead when visiting Salzburg, as it’s a popular destination and accommodations can fill up quickly. To ensure you have a place to stay, it’s best to book your rooms well in advance of your travel dates.

Where to Go Next After Old Town Salzburg

Before you go, be sure to check out the beautiful destinations that are just a short bus ride away from Old Town Salzburg.

Some of these places are not to be missed for many reasons, such as the ones listed below.

• Hellbrunn Palace — Mirabell Palace is a fascinating palace in Salzburg, Austria. It is a marvel of engineering, a work of art, and a 17th-century prank (Trick Fountains) that visitors now and then enjoy. Learn more : 5 Things to Do in Hellbrunn Palace .
• Hohenwerfen Fortress — Conde Nast Traveler mentioned it as one of the most beautiful fortresses in Europe. I couldn’t agree more! It is well-preserved, perched on a hilltop, and has a spectacular birds of prey show. Discover : 5 Reasons to visit Hohenwerfen Fortress .
• St. Gilgen — It is one of the most charming villages in Austria. Nestled in the Alps, this village beside a lake is a true gem you’d love to wander. That’s true, especially with its cute and colorful houses with murals and flowers. See how beautiful it is : 7 Things to Do in St. Gilgen .
• Berchtesgaden — It’s the Bavarian alpine town that’s only 50 minutes away from Salzburg by bus. It’s a must-see for all nature lovers, photographers, and wanderers. The appearance of Konigssee and the view from Eagle’s Nest are stunning. Check this out: Berchtesgaden Day Trip From Salzburg .

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Budget Travel Guide to Salzburg

Salzburg is known as the birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, as well as the setting and primary filming location for The Sound of Music . Yet, this only scratches the surface of what the enchanting Austrian city is really about.

Salzburg has scenic views of the Central Eastern Alps and shares a border with the German province of Bavaria. Its well-preserved Old Town is full of incredible Baroque architecture, and its enormous, medieval fortress provides historical insights into the area.

Although you may think of Salzburg as a large and busy city, it has a population of only 150,000 people. Since it’s a smaller city, it’s easily walkable and perfect for budget travellers looking to have a local experience.

Salzburg may be a Central European city, but a trip there doesn’t have to be expensive. This budget travel guide to Salzburg, Austria will share with you some travel tips and tricks to ensure your trip is a fun and affordable one.

This guide is perfect for those who are travelling to Salzburg on a budget. We will show you what to do in Salzburg , where to stay, what to eat and how to get around, whether it’s a weekend in Salzburg or a long term stay.

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Table of Contents

The best time to visit Salzburg

There’s never a bad time to visit Salzburg, though certain months are more suitable for budget travel.

Late winter is peak season due to the Christmas and New Year period, as well as the Hahnenkamm festival in mid-January.

To experience the festive atmosphere without the crowds and inflated prices, visit Salzburg during late November and early December.

Summer is also a popular time to visit, making flights and accommodation rates soar during June, July and August. May and September are affordable months if you want to visit Salzburg while the weather is warm.

How to get around Salzburg on a budget

There are two main buses between Salzburg Airport and the city’s main station. Bus 2 runs daily with departures every 10 to 20 minutes, and the journey is 20 to 25 minutes long.

Bus 10 departs every 10 minutes (except on Sundays) and takes only 15 minutes to reach the city. Single tickets from the airport terminal or bus stop machines cost €2.50.

There’s another option than purchasing individual tickets, however. The Salzburg Card , which you’ll learn more about later, includes free rides on all modes of public transport for up to three days.

The trolley bus (Obus) system in Salzburg can take you to every corner of the city. Before you leave, download the free English-language app, qando Salzburg, for real-time schedule information.

The Festungsbahn is another mode of transport you’ll likely use in Salzburg. This mountain cable car provides access to Hohensalzburg Fortress atop the Festungsberg mountain. The trip takes less than a minute and is covered by the Salzburg Card .

What to expect in Salzburg

While the Austro-Bavarian dialect of German is spoken in Salzburg, the majority of the younger generation can speak English well.

Like the rest of Austria, Salzburg uses the euro . Service charges are typically added to the bill at restaurants, so check before you leave a tip.

If not, five per cent is fine to tip for good service. A 10% tip is expected any time you catch a taxi, but since you’ll likely be using public transport, this isn’t something you’ll have to worry about.

Budget things to do in Salzburg

To get your money’s worth in Salzburg, you’ll need to prepare for a few jam-packed days. By purchasing a Salzburg Card, you’ll have an all-inclusive pass to all of the city’s tourist attractions and museums, as well as discounts on any events and concerts.

The 24-hour card for adults costs €26, or €34 for 48 hours card and €39 for 72 hours. Remember, this price also includes unlimited public transport! You can book a card online and pick one up at the airport, tourist information centres, and the main train station.

Any paid attractions mentioned below are included in the Salzburg Card , so you won’t have to worry about paying anything else.

See the churches and monasteries

Salzburg’s 17th-century Baroque cathedral is one of the city’s top sights. The grandiose, Roman Catholic Salzburg Cathedral stands 81 metres tall in the Old Town.

The impressive facade features two towers and a curved gable in between, with statues of four evangelists. At the front sits a marble and cast iron column known as Immaculate Mary.

The gates to enter the cathedral depict three virtues: faith, love and hope. The interiors are even more incredible, with a 70-metre high dome displaying 16 elaborate frescos.

The cathedral is also known for its seven bells, which are considered some of the most beautiful in the country. Two of the bells date back to 1628, while the remaining five were added in 1961.

The Benedictine monastery Stift Nonnberg is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the oldest German-speaking nunnery. The complex was founded in the early 700s by Saint Rupert of Salzburg beneath the Festungsberg hill.

The abbey church was refurbished in the 1880s to create its current Baroque style, and its dark red, 12th-century Romanesque tower is seen throughout Salzburg.

Go window shopping

Budget travel may not allow for any shopping sprees, but who says you can’t experience the atmosphere? Getreidegasse is the main shopping street in Salzburg, and many stores here are on the pricier-side, so don’t be tempted!

The charming architecture and ornate shop signs along this narrow street are enough to occupy your attention.

Visit Mozart’s birthplace

While on Getreidegasse, stop by the house Mozart grew up in. The exterior of Hagenauer Haus at No. 9 is vibrant yellow, so you can’t miss it.

The museum inside transports you back in time to the 18th-century with its authentic furniture, original portraits and memorabilia. For serious music fans, Mozart’s violin and clavichord are also on display.

Spend some time in nature

The beautiful Mirabell Gardens in the grounds of Mirabell Palace are a must-visit . The geometrically-arranged gardens feature mythology-themed statues by sculptor Ottavio Mosto.

Stop by the Grand Fountain to see Mosto’s figures representing the four elements (fire, air, earth and water), as well as the Pegasus Fountain by Kaspar Gras. This is the location where the Trapp family famously sang Do Re Mi in The Sound of Music .

Another place to check out in Salzburg is Hellbrunn Palace . To get to this 17th-century Baroque villa in Morzg, catch Bus 25 from the Old Town to the Salzburg Schloss Hellbrunn stop.

Once you reach the grounds, you’ll be amazed at the immensity and character. Although the palace itself is stunning, Hellbrunn is most popular for its picturesque park with a unique twist.

Architect Markus Sittikus, known to have a sense of humour, designed the outdoor area to perform pranks on guests and visitors.

One feature includes water fountains hidden inside stone seats that spray when activated. If you don’t mind getting wet, it’s a fun and memorable experience for all ages.

A different outdoor spot to visit is Petersfriedhof, or Saint Peter’s Cemetery. While it may seem a little eerie to visit a cemetery as a tourist, it’s a beautiful and beloved attraction.

Notable architects, painters, musicians and composers rest here, including Maria Anna Mozart. If you’re willing, you can even explore the catacombs carved into the rock of the Festungsberg mountain.

Visit the largest medieval castle in Central Europe

The Hohensalzburg Fortress is one of the largest medieval castles in Europe, and an attraction you simply can’t miss seeing. Built atop the Festungsberg hill, it has a total height of 506 metres.

At 250 metres long and 150 metres wide, you can imagine how integral this fortress is to Salzburg’s skyline and identity. Inside the fortress are various courtyards and wings, including the Golden Hall, the Golden Chamber, the bedchamber, and the Chapel of Archbishop Leonhard von Keutschach.

Learn more about the city’s history

The best museum to learn about the history of the city is the Salzburg Museum in the Neue Residenz.

Permanent exhibitions showcase artifacts, historical artwork and detailed presentations on all subjects, from science to literature. The museum even won the European Museum of the Year Award in 2009.

Next, take the Panorama Passage, an underground walkway that connects the Salzburg Museum to the Panorama Museum . Its unique main attraction is an all-encompassing painting of Salzburg, measuring a tremendous 26 metres wide and five metres high.

Painted by Johann Michael Sattler in 1829, you can inspect the ways the city has progressed and admire the incredible detail.

Salzburg’s Folklore Museum offers an interesting insight into the city’s folk culture. It’s a small, quaint exhibition that keeps the spirit and local customs alive with displays of traditional clothing, furniture, paintings and more. It’s a real hidden gem, and in an idyllic location overlooking Hellbrunn Park.

Wander the markets

Salzburg is well known for its magical, romantic and historic Christmas markets . Most of them start popping up by late November, so you can experience the festive season before the actual Christmas rush.

Remember, you don’t need to spend all your money on souvenirs or gifts to have a fantastic time! The markets here are wonderful places to soak up the good cheer and meet some new people.

The Weihnachtsmarkt in front of Mirabell Palace is a small market that’s perfect for tasting the infamous gluhwein (mulled wine).

On Sundays, listen to the Christmas carols at the Christkindlmarkt in Residenzplatz. There’s also the Advent Market in the courtyard at Hohensalzburg Fortress, featuring an ensemble of wind musicians and local arts and crafts.

Where to stay in Salzburg on a budget

Staying at a hostel is one of the smartest ways to save money while travelling, Airbnb is also another budget option.

Here are three of the best hostels in Salzburg to consider making your base. We have also written a more comprehensive guide on Where to stay in Salzburg.

Yoho International Youth Hostel : Yoho is one of the top-rated and most centrally located hostels in all of Salzburg. To get you into the party mood, Yoho offers a free welcome shot and two daily happy hours at the hostel bar.

If you’re not a drinker, there’s a free book exchange and board game area. The Sound of Music also screens daily in the lounge.

MEININGER Salzburg City Centre : MEININGER is a fun, social, and chilled out place to stay near Salzburg Gnigl station. The hostel keeps its commitment to budget travel by offering an all-you-can-eat breakfast buffet and free activities in the games room.

a&o Hostel Salzburg Hauptbahnhof : a&o is only a five-minute walk to the main railway station in Salzburg, making it an ideal location for exploring the Old Town.

There are shared kitchen facilities if you want to save your money further by preparing your own meals.

Budget eats in Salzburg

Stop by Balkan Grill on Getreidegasse to try a fast food dish from Salzburg known as bosna . Similar to a hot dog, a white bread roll is filled with a Bratwurst sausage, onions, and a blend of curry powder and mustard.

For only €3.70 per bosna, Balkan Grill is one of the best cheap places to eat in Salzburg. A long queue leading up to the counter is common, but the line moves fast.

Salzburger Grill Imbiss along Wiener-Philharmoniker-Gasse also has a ton of other fast food options with a German twist. Prices are incredibly budget-friendly, between €2.70 and €3.70.

If you’re vegetarian or vegan, you don’t have to miss out! Try a meat-free alternative to bosna at Hans W on Gstaettengasse for €5.70. Local burger chain Pommes Boutique also has three locations around Salzburg offering a fresh veggie burger option for only €4.00.

Another local speciality is Salzburger Nockerl , which is generally large enough share between two people. This sweet soufflé is made in the shape of three peaks to represent the nearby Central Eastern Alps. Order the dessert at Café Mozart or Café Glockenspiel.

Cheap tours to do in Salzburg

The Sound of Music sightseeing tours run the gamut of €45, all the way up to €380! With a little research and planning, however, you can see the same sights for free.

Some filming locations you may have already stopped at, like Mirabell Gardens. Others, like Nonnberg Nunnery, Leopoldskron Castle and Residenzplatz Square, can be easily visited using public transport.

For €15.00, you can go on the Salzburg Sightseeing City Cruise along Salzach River. On this affordable 40-minute tour you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the city’s natural landscape, including the southern ridge of the Alps.

Depart from Marktsteg at a time of your choosing and take in the scenery from both sides of the river.

Another tour that’s worth paying a little for is a four-hour trip to the Bavarian Mountains . Cross the border into Germany, wander around the emerald green Königssee Lake, and see the extravagant Castle Hellbrunn.

On the way back to Salzburg, you’ll stop to explore the charming village of Berchtesgaden.

Salzburg doesn’t have any free guided walking tours or day trips from Salzburg , but you can use this travel guide to help you explore independently.

Recommend budget tours in Salzburg

• The Original Sound of Music Tour in Salzburg
• Eagle’s Nest and ‘The Where Eagles Dare Castle’ of Werfen
• Mozart Dinner Concert Salzburg at the Baroque Hall of St Peter
• Werfen World’s Largest Ice Caves and Golling Waterfalls Tour Including all Entrance Fees
• Hallstatt Tour from Salzburg
• Dinner Experience at Salzburg Fortress and Mozart Concert in Salzburg
• Salzburg Super Saver: Austrian Lakes, Mountains and Salt Mines
• Salzburg Lakes and Mountains Region Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour
• Bavarian Mountains including Berchtesgaden from Salzburg
• Dinner Cooking Class & Concert – Prezels, Dumplings, Apple Strudel & Mozart
• Grand Salzburg City Tour Including 24-Hour Salzburg Card
• Salzburg Combo: 48-Hour Salzburg Card, Mozart City Tour

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Sam, a seasoned traveler across four continents and 49 countries, is a leading authority in travel planning. Her website, Travelling King, offers tailored itineraries and expert guides for seamless trips. Sam's expertise in luxury travel, fast travel, and destination guides keeps her at the forefront of the travel community.

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Budget-Friendly Austria: 10 Incredibly Cheap Things to Do in Salzburg

T he country of Austria may bring up visions of luxury skiing vacations in the Alps or expensive gourmet dinners set to live music from Schubert or Mozart, but you may be surprised to learn that one of the country’s major cities is surprisingly affordable : Salzburg.

Set in the western part of the country near the German border and the picture-perfect town of Hallstatt, Salzburg has quite the history. The city was founded in 696 and was part of Bavaria until the 14th century, when it became part of the Holy Roman Empire. It then became part of Bavaria again, then part of the Austrian-Hungary empire, then was annexed by Germany in World War II. It was after WWII that it became part of modern-day Austria.

What that means is that Salzburg has a unique history divided between the new and old parts of town, both of which are rich with things to do. If you’re trying to visit some of the coolest towns in Europe without breaking the bank, you’ll definitely want to add it to your travel list. And Salzburg is pretty cool. It has a reputation for being a day-trip stop for people on group tours, but it’s worth a few days of your vacation time, especially if you want to explore some of the recreation just outside town. Things to do in Salzburg range from hikes to beer tastings to historical sites to sprawling art museums, and the city is super safe, quite pretty, and compact enough to easily explore on foot.

So it’s just a bonus that some of the coolest things to do in Salzburg cost next to nothing. And as of writing, the exchange rate between the Euro and US Dollar is nearly one to one, making it an even more affordable time to plan a trip.

Must-know money-saving tips for things to do in Salzburg

Photo: Suzie Dundas

• Salzburg card: Buy the Salzburg tourist card. It’s good for one, two, or three days and includes free admission to nearly all the attractions and things you’ll want to do in Salzburg. That includes many of the recommendations above, including the Mozart museums, the river cruise, several art museums, and Hohensalzburg Fortress. It also includes free public transportation and discounts on many other area activities. You can buy it online and have the card sent to your phone, and it starts at €27 per person.
• Avoid the Salzburg Festival : The Salzburg Summer Festival is an amazing experience and potentially the bucket-list travel item for classical music fans. But it’s also the most crowded and most expensive time to be in Salzburg, and you’ll find hotel rooms at their peak cost during the festival. So unless you are going to Salzburg specifically to catch some of the dozens of musical and opera performances, avoid visiting between mid-July and the end of August.
• Travel by train: The OBB (Austrian rail system) is cheap, clean, comfortable, and quick — there’s not much reason to fly throughout the country when you could pop on a train for a fraction of the cost (and have Wi-Fi and a full food menu). You can buy tickets online and don’t even need to reserve in advance (except during the Salzburg Festival).
• Fly into Munich : Vienna may be the country’s main airport, but Munich, Germany, is closer to Salzburg and larger than the Vienna Airport, so you may have more options for cheaper or more convenient flights.
• Snack your way through lunch: Salzburg has hundreds of small restaurants, cafes, chocolate shops, local “fast food” restaurants, and outdoor street markets and beer gardens. There’s no need to sit down for a pricey formal lunch. Snacking your way through lunchtime is one of the best things to do in Salzburg, regardless of what part of town you’re in. “Fast food” in Austria is much, much better than fast food in the US, and you’ll be amazed at how tasty a cheap cafe sandwich will be, especially if you compare it to the cost and quality of something similar in the states.

Budget-friendly things to do in Salzburg

Hear the sound of music nuns sing at sunrise (free).

Photo: patjo /Shutterstock

If you’re at all familiar with the plot of the movie The Sound of Music , you probably know that Maria, who becomes governess to the von Trapp children, was a young recruit at a convent in Salzburg before she joined the family. But what you may not know is that it’s a true story and the actual convent where Maria first lived is in Salzburg. Nonnberg Abbey is a quick walk from downtown and parts of it are open to the public during the day.

But provided you don’t mind an early wake-up call, get to the abbey by 6:45 AM to hear the nuns as they sing Gregorian chants and songs while the sun rises. As the nuns sing, the sun rises and illuminates the chapel. You don’t need to be religious to appreciate the beauty of the experience. All are welcome and the experience happens every day, with a few exceptions for holidays. It’s completely free, though it may be nice to donate a euro or two on the way out if you enjoy the performance.

Visit Mozart’s birthplace (€11)

Mozart — yes, the Mozart — was born in Salzburg, which you’ll realize after spending about 10 minutes in the city. Stores love to lean into the connection to Mozart and you’ll notice a suspiciously large amount of coffee shops advertising themselves as Mozart’s favorite cafe.

There are two Mozart museums in Salzburg: one in the home where he was born, and another in the home where he lived later in life. The Mozart birthplace home walks visitors through his life and has an impressive number of personal affects ranging from locks of hair to a piano played by the musical genius. Exhibits are in German and English. Even if you never listen to classical music, it’s still a fascinating museum. And yes, you’ll probably want to download “ Rock Me, Amadeus ” to listen to later that night.

Tour the fortress (€16)

Photo: Kanuman /Shutterstock

If there’s one building that dominates the Salzburg cityscape, it’s Hohensalzburg Castle , also known as Hohensalzburg Fortress. And touring it is one of the best things to do in Salzburg. Visitors take a funicular to the top, and once you’re there, there’s a free walking tour of the huge complex, which is the size of a small town. The views from the top are amazing, looking across to Germany and down on nearly all the city’s neighborhoods and top sites. Dress warmly — it can be windy and cold 1,000 feet above the city.

Have dinner in the world’s oldest restaurant (€20+)

St. Peter’s has been serving up food to wearing travelers since the 9th century, first to traveling monks and now to Salzburg visitors. The restaurant is actually in St. Peter’s Abbey and is partially built into the side of a cliff. Though it’s gotten some serious updates in the last thousand years or so, it still maintains much of the original historic spirit. The menu is classic Austrian with a thoughtful wine menu, though there’s a separate brunch menu available in the hip outdoor space (which becomes a lively spot on summer weekends). It’s a high-end experience but the pricing isn’t unreasonable at all — pasta dishes start around €20 and a four-course tasting menu starts at €60. Reservations are recommended.

Picnic with a pint (€2)

If you’ve ever been to Austria, you know that they take their beer seriously. The relatively small country has more than 300 breweries making beer on a micro and large scale. Beer drinkers in the US may recognize Austrian beer labels like Stiegl , Trumer, or  Augustiner. Because beer is so widely drunk in the country, it’s very, very affordable. You can sit at a sidewalk cafe and drink a microbrew for around €2.50. If you buy it in a grocery store for a DIY outdoor picnic, it’s even less than that.

One of the most popular things to do in Salzburg in the spring is to sit on the grassy banks of the Salzach River with some snacks and a good beer or two. There’s a bike and walking path just behind it, ensuring you don’t need to worry about loud traffic passing directly behind you. Drinking outside in public is totally cool in the country, both legally and culturally.

Stroll past the city’s modern art (free)

You may be surprised to learn that a city as old as Salzburg is loaded with modern art, and taking the free self-guided art tour of the city is one of the best things to do in Salzburg if you want to see the city’s creative side. There are 13 modern art statues around the city, all of which are incredibly distinct. There’s an informational sign with in-depth information near each sculpture, and they’re all large-scale and easy to find. You can follow the self-guided walking tour (download the map if you don’t have phone service in Europe) or pay €10 for a guided tour.

Cruise on the Salzach River (€16)

Photo: Rasto SK /Shutterstock

If you thought Salzburg was always a bit overcast or cold, think again. Summer is warm and sunny and there’s no better activity than taking a cruise on the Salzach River when the sun is out. Cruising along the river and enjoying a coffee, beer, or snack on the way is one of the most popular things to do in Salzburg on the weekends, so try to go midweek if you’d like a little more space to yourself.

River cruises on the Amadeus Salzburg last around one hour and afford fantastic views of the old town and Alps in the distance. The captain will usually explain the sights as you go. It’s a leisurely cruise so it doesn’t travel too far, but it’s well worth it (especially if you bought a Salzburg card, in which case it’s free).

Sample “Mozart Balls” (€2)

From “Mozart Balls” (called Mozartkugeln) to sacher-torte, there’s no shortage of chocolate in Salzburg. Several companies make chocolates called Mozart Balls, and there’s quite an interesting backstory behind who created the original — and whether the best Mozart Balls come from Salzburg, Vienna, or Germany.

If you head to the old town (near Mozart’s birthplace), you’ll find several different shops selling different types of Mozart Balls. They usually cost around €2 each at shops like Confiserie Braun, Confiserie Fürst, Mozartkugel, and Josef Manner & Comp. AG, all of which are within five minutes of each other (and near the Mozart birthplace). Do your own Mozart Ball tour and decide which brand you think is the best.

Stroll through Mirabell Gardens (free)

Photo: canadastock /Shutterstock

The hills are alive with the sound of music if you swing by the Mirabell Gardens, which are free and open to the public. If you’re a The Sound of Music fan, you’ll recognize several areas from the film and can even take a photo sitting on the unicorn statues. The gardens are most lush in late spring through fall, of course, but sights like the famous fountains and the stairs (on which the von Trapp children sang “Do, Re, Me”) are accessible year-round.

Go for a hike (potentially free)

Photo: toriru /Shutterstock

It’s hard not to notice the huge mountains surrounding Salzburg. In fact, three of them are so prominent that it’s said Salzburg’s famous meringue dessert, Salzburger Nockerl, is styled after them.

Fortunately, that makes it easy to find phenomenal hiking close to the city, even if you don’t have a car. For a great hike quite close to the city, head about six miles south of town to the bottom station of the Untersberg Cable Car (which is reachable via public transportation). You can hike one of several trails around Untersberg Mountain , including one quite challenging path to the top that gains more than 4,000 feet of elevation. You can also take the cable car one-way, or both ways, if you’d rather stroll around the summit but not add much elevation change to the adventure. Taking the cable car one way is €18 or free with the Salzburg card.

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Home » Europe » Austria » Salzburg

EPIC SALZBURG Itinerary! (2024)

Nestled along the Eastern Alps and the border of Germany, lays Salzburg, Austria’s storybook city. With crisp, clean air, tidy streets, and snow-capped mountains, countless visitors are allured by Salzburg’s fairytale-like enchantment.

Many people know Salzburg as the primary location used for filming the famous movie, “The Sound of Music,” as well as the birthplace Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. Creativity in Salzburg runs deep and is evident in every aspect of the city’s culture, heritage, and history.

To help you explore the city with ease, we’ve laid out the perfect Salzburg itinerary! Whether you’re spending 2 days in Salzburg, or two weeks, we’ve packed it full of useful information that will ensure you hit the city’s highlights, as well as some hidden gems!

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Best time to visit Salzburg

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Here is a quick look at the seasons so you can decide when to visit Salzburg!

The Summer months (June – August) are a great time to visit Salzburg in terms of warm weather. However, the pleasant temperatures are accompanied by plenty of rain. Precipitation in summer is abundant, and up to half of the days of the season have significant rainfall.

If you’re planning a 2 days’ trip to Salzburg during June, make sure to stick around for the annual Dult Fair! This is one of Salzburg’s top festivals, it’s a traditional folk festival for young and old!

During the fall (September – November) months the temperatures will start to decline, and the first snowfall of the season usually starts in November. If you don’t mind cooler temperatures, this is a great time to travel to Salzburg and beat the tourist crowds!

The winter months (December – February) are cold with temperatures at, or just below, freezing. Touring Salzburg in December is very popular as the whole town is decked out for Christmas and transformed into a winter wonderland.

Spring in Salzburg (March-May) sees a rise in temperatures, however, snowfall in March and early April is common.

With a Salzburg City Pass , you can experience the best of Salzburg at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

Choosing the right accommodation that fits with your travel plans will complement your Salzburg itinerary and make your trip that much more satisfying. There are lots of options in varying styles and budgets to choose from.

Salzburg is a small and compact city, and the majority of the ‘must-see’ Salzburg attractions are located within or near the Old Town. Therefore, you can’t go wrong choosing an accommodation option in this area.

If you have more time to spend in Austria and are looking for accommodation outside the busy center of Salzburg, Saint Gilgen is a great option! This charming town is located just 17 miles from Salzburg’s city center and will allow for a more peaceful and relaxing vacation.

This small village has a scenic setting and is a great place to base your Salzburg itinerary from. Whatsmore, it’s well connected to the Old Town of Salzburg by public transportation, so getting in and out of the city will be a breeze!

Best Hostel in Salzburg – Yoho International Youth Hostel Salzburg

If you’re planning a budget vacation in Salzburg, the Yoho International Youth Hostel is for you! Some of the popular perks include free Wi-Fi, an on-site bar and restaurants with happy hour specials, and buffet breakfast available every morning (for a fee).

Best Airbnb in Salzburg – Modern Apartment in the Heart of Altstadt

Located in the middle of the historic old town in Salzburg, this newly built and furnished apartment is ideal for first time visitors to Salzburg. It consists of a bedroom, a small fully-equipped kitchen, a bathroom and a dining area. Walk around and explore the city of Mozart, and come home to this comfortable place to rest from the weary day of sightseeing.

Best Budget Hotel in Salzburg – Hotel Turnerwirt

Dating from 1437, Hotel Turnerwirt is a family-run accommodation spot located a convenient 1.2-miles from the city center. The hotel has three parts – the main building, the atrium, and the romantic villa with a terrace! The building is quaint, but the rooms are modern, with free Wi-Fi running through the property and the usual hotel facilities provided.

Best Luxury Hotel in Salzburg – Radisson Blu Hotel Altstadt

If you’re looking for lavish, 5-star accommodation, the Radisson Blue Hotel Altstadt is the best place to stay in Salzburg! It’s located right in the Old Town, next to many popular Salzburg points of interest. Rooms are tastefully furnished and there is an on-site bar, restaurant, and room service.

Whether you’re spending 2 days in Salzburg, or more, you’re going to need to know how to get around the city. Public transportation is very efficient in Salzburg and transportation fares are reasonable.

Salzburg has a comprehensive bus route that covers all the major areas of the city and popular Salzburg landmarks!

If you’re planning on using public transportation as your primary means of traversing Salzburg, you’ll save money by purchasing a one-day unlimited travel ticket. This will give you access to the whole public transportation system in Salzburg in increments of 24-hours. Or, if you’re spending a week in Salzburg, a weekly pass is also available.

However, we should note, the city is very compact and is easy to navigate! It’s entirely possible you’ll only need to make use of public transportation once or twice during your time in Salzburg, if at all.

Cycling is another popular option for transportation, and Salzburg is a very cycle-friendly city. However, do keep in mind that Salzburg’s weather can be unpredictable at times. Make sure to check the forecast and take the month you’re traveling to Salzburg into consideration.

Once you decide how many days in Salzburg you’ll be spending, you can decide which method of transportation fits better with your plans!

Mirabell Palace and Gardens | Getreidegasse | Mozart’s Birthplace | Residenzplatz | Hellbrunn Palace

Spend the first day of your Salzburg itinerary wandering the city’s Old Town! Discover the imposing beauty of the architecture, the stunning scenery of the landscape, and the historical highlights of Salzburg!

Day 1 / Stop 1 – Mirabell Palace and Gardens

• Why it’s awesome: Marabell Palace and gardens offer a romantic history and stunning scenery.
• Food nearby: Cafe Fingerlos J.M. Fingerlos is a cozy coffee shop offering classic Austrian fare, including sweets and great coffee!

Mirabell Palace is a historic building in Salzburg that dates back to 1606! The palace was constructed in baroque architecture and is a must-see Salzburg attraction.

Inside the palace, you’ll find the famous Marble Hall, which is regarded as one of the world’s finest wedding venues. Make sure to look out for the imposing sculptures that adorn the marble staircase leading to the hall!

This is one of the best places to visit in Salzburg for music lovers. The palace and its gardens were used as the filming location for several scenes from the 1965 movie “The Sound of Music.” Young Mozart also performed many concerts in the Marble Hall!

The palace is additionally known for its pristine gardens so do check out the impressive landscaping. The gardens are a horticultural masterpiece and will offer some of the best photo opportunities during your Salzburg itinerary!

Make sure to check out the Pegasus Fountain, encircled by statues representing the four elements: earth, water, air, and fire! Also worth checking out is the Dwarf Garden, where you’ll find sculptures modeled after real-life people from the 1700s. Note that the Dwart Gardens are closed during the winter months.

The palace and gardens are open daily and entrance is free!

Insider Tip: The palace was used to film the famous Do-Re-Mi sequences from “The Sound of Music”!

Day 1 / Stop 2 – Getreidegasse

• Why it’s awesome: Getreidegasse is a famous shopping street in Salzburg. It’s also the birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart!
• Food nearby: Cafe Mozart offers a full menu in a relaxed setting. The prices are very reasonable and the cafe is open long hours every day.

Getreidegasse , also referred to as Grain Lane, is a busy shopping street in the historic Altstadt of Salzburg. It’s situated in the heart of Salzburg’s Old Town and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1996.

This iconic street offers upmarket boutiques set amongst medieval streets. The narrow, tall row houses epitomize Salzburg’s medieval architecture. Admire the wrought-iron signs and portal windows from an Austrian era long-ago era. Many buildings also lead to picturesque passageways and courtyards offering a quiet reprieve from the busy crowds!

Besides stylish boutiques, you’ll also find a handful of stores selling Mozart souvenirs and “The Sound of Music” memorabilia. Cozy coffee shops and local restaurants are also abundant in the area!

The streets other popular claim to fame is the fact that it’s the birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart! The famous composer was born at Number 9, where he lived until the age of 17.

Whether you’re a serious shopper or not, this historic area of the city is a must-see stop on your Salzburg itinerary.

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Mozart’s Birthplace

• Why it’s awesome: This museum is the childhood home of one of the world’s most famous composers!
• Cost: USD $12.00
• Food nearby: Burgerista serves quality make-your-own style burgers. There are lots of toppings to choose from and veggie burgers are also available.

Mozart’s Birthplace , or the Mozart Museum, is located in the house formerly occupied by the Mozart Family. Following his birth in 1756, he lived in this location with his family until 1773.

Mozart’s former house became a museum in 1880 and contains numerous original artifacts from the composer’s lifespan, as well as from his widow and children. Discover the brilliance of Mozart as you view the exhibitions in the rooms of the house where he was born.

Start your visit on the museum’s third floor, which will provide you with an introduction to the Mozart family. Look inside the room where Anne Maria Mozart gave birth to her son and view the violin Mozart played as a child. Learn about Mozart’s sons, Karl Thomas, and Franz Xaver Wolfgang, both of whom also grew up to be famous, well-known composers!

On the second floor, you’ll see a sampling of costumes and models from Mozart’s greatest operas. You’ll also be able to listen to musical excerpts and see the original scores. The first floor focuses on Mozart’s day-to-day life.

Journey back in time as you view the original furniture, family memorabilia, and Mozart’s own musical instruments from the 18th century!

The Mozart Museum presents a fascinating insight into the life and talent of a musical genius, you don’t have to be a history buff or a music lover to appreciate this stop on your Salzburg trip itinerary!

Day 1 / Stop 4 – Residenzplatz

• Why it’s awesome: This large historic square contains several popular Salzburg attractions and is an important venue for cultural events.
• Food nearby: Gasthaus Zwettler’s is a fun place to eat out in Salzburg. Their menu showcases the local cuisine and includes a variety of vegetarian options!

Right in the heart of Old Town Salzburg, you’ll find Residenzplatz . This large, stately square is one of the city’s most popular places to visit! It’s home to two bishops’ palaces, both of which are excellent examples of Baroque and Renaissance architecture.

Designed in the late 16th century, Residenzplatz contains many iconic Salzburg tourist attractions! The centerpiece of the square is the Residenzbrunnen (Residence Fountain) fashioned with intricate horse, dolphin and Atlas sculptures. This grand fountain was also used as the backdrop in several scenes from the movie “The Sound of Music.”

The Salzburg Residenz lays on the west side of the square. This regal palace dates back to the 13th century and contains 180 rooms! If you have time, take a self-guided audio tour through the palace. Visit the opulent rooms and learn the rich history of the building.

See the Rittersaal Room where Mozart performed! Also of note when you tour the palace is the Residenz Gallery’s fine collection of European art.

On the east side, you’ll find several interesting museums to explore, including the Panorama Museum, which contains a circular painting of Salzburg in 1829. Guests can view the large 85-foot circumference painting through telescopes!

Mozartplatz is located just next to the square. The large courtyard is best known for its memorial statue of composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, it’s definitely worth a quick stop for a photo opportunity!

If you’re planning an itinerary for Salzburg during December, the Residenzplatz really comes alive with festive holiday cheer. Christmas markets are set up around the residence fountain and the stalls are filled with Christmas crafts and food vendors. Pick up some mulled wine and enjoy the cheerful atmosphere!

Day 1 / Stop 5 – Hellbrunn Palace

• Why it’s awesome: A lavish palace noted for its gardens, waterworks, and trick fountains!
• Cost: USD $14.00
• Food nearby: Park Cafe Schloss Hellbrunn is a friendly cafe located next to Hellbrunn Palace. They serve typical cafe fare (sandwiches, soups, and salads) with the addition of Austrian specializes, including dessert!

Hellbrunn Palace , or Schloss Hellbrunn, is an early Baroque palace. It was built from 1613 to 1619 as a place for celebrations and also as a summer residence for Markus Sittikus, who was both a prince and an archbishop.

While the whimsical interior of the palace is worth a visit, the palace is most famous for its trick fountains, located inside the 148-acre gardens. Sittikus designed the fountains to entertain and trick his guests.

The fountains spray at seemingly random moments.  If you’re traveling to Salzburg with kids, they’ll love running through the water shooting from the different statues and structures of the fountains.

Built in 1750, the Mechanical Theater is the newest feature of the fountains. It portrays a Baroque city and has approximately 200 water-operated characters. It’s definitely one of the most unique Salzburg attractions you’ll see when visiting.

A tour of Hellbrunn Palace includes visiting the water games area with a guided tour, a castle tour with an audio guide, and a visit to the Folklore Museum.

If you’re only planning a 2-day itinerary in Salzburg, visiting Hellbrunn Palace will most likely be the only time you’ll need to use public transportation. The palace is about 4 miles from Salzburg city center, hop on a bus or hail a taxi to save time.

Insider Tip: The palace gardens are free to enter and are open every day until dusk. If you visit, make sure to visit “The Sound of Music” pavilion where the famous ‘Sixteen Going on Seventeen’ scene was shot.

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Grünmarkt | Love Locks Bridge Salzburg | Salzburg Museum | Salzburg Cathedral | Petersfriedhof | Fortress Hohensalzburg

Your 2-day itinerary in Salzburg will see you discovering more of the local culture and history. You’ll get a chance to rub elbows with the locals and dive deeper into the city’s history. All of the sites we’ve included are located in Old Town and can easily be reached on foot. 

Let’s get started on your self-guided Salzburg walking tour!

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Grünmarkt

• Why it’s awesome: Grünmarkt is your typical European market, it provides a welcoming social atmosphere and plenty of delicious local food!
• Food nearby: You’ll find lots of food options in the market, but one of the more popular items is definitely the giant pretzels sold at the Salzburger Brezen stand!

Grünmarkt, or Green Market, is a farmers market in Salzburg. Since 1857 the market has served as a popular meeting place for young and old. Locals and tourists love to visit to pick up fresh goods and souvenirs.

You’ll find dried and fresh fruit, cured meats and cheeses, fresh-baked bread and pastries, as well as handicraft items such as baskets, leathers, clothing, and much more! Stroll the stalls and discover more of Salzburg’s local culture.

The market is open full-day hours during the week, half-day hours on Saturday, and is closed on Sundays. Saturday is the market’s busiest day, so if you’re spending a weekend in Salzburg, this is a great time to visit it experience the market in high drive.

Insider Tip: If you’re visiting one of Salzburg’s gorgeous parks, the Grünmarkt is the perfect place to pick up some picnic provisions beforehand!

Day 2 / Stop 2 – Love Locks Bridge Salzburg

• Why it’s awesome: The Love Locks Bridge in Salzburg celebrates love and is a great quick stop on your Salzburg itinerary for a photo opportunity! 
• Food nearby: Swing by Sternbräu for classic Austrian fare and a great beer selection.

While you’re in the area of Grünmarkt, swing by the Love Locks Bridge Salzburg. It’s only about a 5-minute walk from the markets and definitely worth a visit! You’ll be able to snap some great photos of the locks and the bridge with the beautiful Alps in the background.

If you’re spending time in Salzburg, Austria with your significant other, partake in the century old-tradition of inscribing both of your initials in a lock! You can then attach it to the bridge, and toss the key into the river.

Every time you travel back to Salzburg you’ll be able to revisit the bridge and see your ‘love lock’!

Day 2 / Stop 3 – Salzburg Museum

• Why it’s awesome: The Salzburg Museum is dedicated to the artistic and cultural history of the city and region of Salzburg!
• Cost: USD $10.00
• Food nearby: Gasthof Goldgasse offers delicious food prepared using locally sourced ingredients. They’re also highly rated for their friendly service and fun atmosphere!

The Salzburg Museum serves as an informative and educational museum of art and history and traces the development of Salzburg as a city. In 2009, the museum received the European Museum of the Year Award. It’s a celebrated institution that showcases everything from Roman excavations to royal artifacts.

Visit the museum and receive a comprehensive history of the city, from its historic past to its present-day culture. The museum contains both traveling and permanent displays. Permanent exhibitions include artifacts and displays on the subjects of art, science, architecture, literature, music, and more.

The music exhibition is particularly well-done and interesting. You’ll find an entire room of historic musical instruments. This section of the museum tells of the musical taste of past eras, historical events, and musical personalities.

The Salzburg Museum is partnered with the Panorama Museum. These museums are connected to each other by the underground Panorama Passage, which exposes a section of a Roman wall covered with murals and models of Salzburg at related points in its development.

If you’re planning a 3-day itinerary in Salzburg, this museum is another popular attraction in the city and definitely worth checking out! The Salzburg Museum is open every day except Monday.

Insider Tip: Free guided tours of the museum are offered every Thursday at 6:00 pm.

Day 2 / Stop 4 – Salzburg Cathedral

• Why it’s awesome: This grand cathedral is one of Salzburg’s most important historic sites and is one of Europe’s most magnificent churches.
• Food nearby: If you’re looking for a healthy place to eat in Salzburg, head to the Wokman Natural Kitchen. This veg-friendly restaurant provides tasty food and very reasonable prices.

The Salzburg Cathedral is famous for its long and dramatic history. The church dates back to 774 when it was consecrated as a cathedral.

The building has survived eight fires, however, the fire of 1598 ruined much of its original structure. The cathedral was completely rebuilt in Baroque style in the seventeen century to its present appearance!

One of the cathedral’s most prominent features is its stunning,  large dome! At 232 feet high, it’s the most impressive architectural design of the Salzburg Cathedral. It’s adorned with 16 frescos in two rows, each was painted by Donato Mascagni of Florence and portrays scenes from the Old Testament.

Mozart also has ties to this historic church. He was baptized inside the cathedral the day after his birth and he later became the cathedral’s organist, from 1779 to 1781.

The cathedral is a masterpiece of early Baroque art. It’s open every day and is free to visit, although donations are welcome!

Day 2 / Stop 5 – Petersfriedhof

• Why it’s awesome: Historic cemetery with baroque tombs as well as 12th-century catacombs.
• Food nearby: Stiftskeller St. Peter serves creative dishes in an elegant setting. It’s also reputed to be one of Europe’s oldest restaurants.

The Petersfriedhof, or St. Peter’s Cemetery, together with the burial site at Nonnberg Abbey, is the oldest cemetery in Salzburg. It’s located at the foot of Hohensalzburg Castle and the Festungsberg Mountains!

The cemetery’s origins date back to around 700 when the adjacent St. Peter’s Abbey was established by Saint Rupert of Salzburg. The abbey’s cemetery was first mentioned in an 1139 deed! The cemetery continued to be used until it was closed in 1878.

However, in 1930 the monks of St. Peter’s successfully urged for the admission of new burials. Today, it continues to be used as an active burial site. Many notable Austrians were buried here, including Maria Anna Mozart, the older sister of Wolfgang Mozart.

A highlight of St. Peter’s Cemetery is the catacombs, which are carved into the rock of the Festungsberg Mountainous. The mystical caves served as burial sites and today they can be visited year-round for a small admission fee.

Climb the stone-carved stairs and work your way back into the rock-cut rooms. You’ll be able to view altars, faded murals, and inscriptions. Located on this site are also two small chapels: The Maximuskapelle and the Gertraudenkapelle.

The cemetery is relatively small and tucked into the mountainside. Walk the stone-paved paths through the beautifully-maintained grounds and enjoy a quiet break from the city.

Petersfriendhof is located next to FestungsBahn Cable Railway. This is the cable car service that will take you to the Fortress Hohensalzburg, the next stop on our Salzburg itinerary!

Day 2 / Stop 6 – Fortress Hohensalzburg

• Why it’s awesome: Fortress Hohensalzburg is a mountaintop fortress that is one of the biggest medieval castles in Europe.
• Food nearby: Panorama Restaurant Zur Festung Hohensalzburg is the attached castle restaurant, stop in for quality food and spectacular views.

Just a short cable car ride from the city center of Salzburg, you’ll find the imposing Fortress Hohensalzburg. Hop on a cable car and cruise up the mountain to check out one of Europe’s most impressive fortresses.

The castle was built in 1077 by Archbishop Gebhard. The complex has served as a fort, a private residence, a prison and military barracks.

Today, you can visit the walled castle and browse the art exhibitions and museums found inside! As you tour the rooms, you’ll see where royalty once lived. Admire the intricate Gothic wood carvings adorning the walls of the Golden Hall, and marvel at the Golden Chamber, where you’ll find lavish furnishings befitting a king!

You can tour the fortress on your own, or pick up an audio guide for a more insightful view of the castle. The audio guide will explain various aspects of the rooms, torture chamber and battlements!

While you’re here, climb the Reckturm watchtower for unparalleled views of Salzburg and the surrounding area! There are also three museums to explore, including the Marionette Museum, which displays puppets from the Salzburg Marionette Theater.

Fortress Hohensalzburg is open every day. The cable railway runs every 10 minutes and will take you from the city to the castle in just minutes! Alternatively, you can walk up Festungsgasse lane until you reach the fortress courtyard.

The city views and well-preserved castle complex makes this one of Salzburg’s most popular attractions!

Insider Tip: The castle complex hosts a number of cultural events during the heavily touristed summer months. If you’re planning a Salzburg itinerary during summer, check the Festung Hohensalzburg website for a scheduled list of concerts and events!

YoHo International Youth Hostel Salzburg

• Free Laundry Facilities

Haus der Natur Salzburg | Freilichtmuseum Salzburg | Stiegl-Brauwelt | Gaisberg Mountain | Volksgarten Salzburg 

If you’re planning a 3-day itinerary in Salzburg, you’re going to need a few more activities to fill your time. Here are 5 more fun attractions we recommend checking out!

Haus der Natur Salzburg

• Large, interactive science and natural history museum
• Open every day from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
• Adult admission is USD $9.00 child admission (ages 4-15) is USD $7.00

The Haus der Natur Salzburg is a natural history and technical museum that offers a variety of displays and interactive exhibits. It mixes entertainment with education and is geared towards all ages.

The first floor of the Science center is dedicated to musical acoustics. From the wave nature of sound to the transfer of sound to the human ear, visitors will learn about everything relating to the theme of sound.

The museum also offers an aquarium where you can view exotic and indigenous aquatic creatures up close! There are 42 display tanks, the largest of which is 60,000 liters! See these underwater animals in their environment, designed to resemble those found in the wild.

Trying to decide what to do in Salzburg with kids? Take them to this museum! They’ll love the different hands-on programs and will be thoroughly entertained for hours.

Freilichtmuseum Salzburg

• A great way to experience the best of Salzburg’s history
• On-site restaurant and picnic area
• Guided tours are available

Covering a total of 124 acres, the Freilichtmuseum Salzburg is Salzburg’s largest museum. Discover 100 authentic and original historical buildings rebuilt on the museum grounds, each with a fascinating story to tell.

Uncover the history of farming, trades, crafts, and manufacturing as you explore old farmhouses and learn about the lifestyle of days long gone. Displays and exhibits fill the buildings and include everything from the history of the land, climate, and geology, to detailing what day-to-day life was like in the old days of Austria!.

To complete your experience, take a ride on the historic steam engine heritage railway. Travel through the scenic natural landscape and the houses of the museum grounds.

Stop by the museum shop to pick up unique souvenirs, including handmade items and chewy sweets! If you’re looking for more unique Salzburg things to do to fulfill your itinerary, add this museum to your list of places to visit!

Stiegl-Brauwelt

• Open every day from 10:00 am to 12:00 am
• Beer tasting and exhibits on brewing history
• Brewpub and restaurant serving Austrian cuisine

Stiegl-Brauwelt was founded in 1492 and is one of the oldest breweries in Austria! Today, you’ll find many fun attractions inside this famous brewery. It offers a multi-sensory experience where you can see, hear, smell, and taste this country’s beloved drink!

Visit the museum and learn the history of the country’s most famous beer! Browse displays and exhibits and trace the timeline of Stiegl’s delicious beverage.

Watch the museum’s film, “The Nature of Beer.” This interactive cinema impresses visitors with its 270-degree view and powerful floor projection that transports guests to the heart of the action. You’ll go behind the scenes of beer production, from the origin of their raw materials to beer bottling.

Guided tours of the brewery are also available. English tours are given once daily, at 3:00 pm, all other tours offered are in German. You can also listen to their free downloadable audio guide, available in 6 different languages!

If you’re hungry or craving a cold beer, stop by their pub and restaurant for a beer tasting and classic Austrian pub grub!

Gaisberg Mountain

• Located to the east of Salzburg
• The perfect place to enjoy some adrenaline-filled activities or a nice hike
• One of the most popular local mountains in Salzburg

If you’re a nature enthusiast planning a Salzburg itinerary, you don’t want to pass up a chance to explore Gaisberg Mountain. The mountain is accessible year-round and located just a few miles from the city center of Salzburg!

You’ll find over 12 miles of well-marked trails ranging in length and difficulty level. Climb the mountain and enjoy the breathtaking panoramic views of Salzburg. For adrenaline junkies, the Gaisberg is an inviting destination for mountain biking and paragliding during the summer months.

The mountain is easily accessible thanks to a bus link that runs from Mirabell Palace. Take the public bus No. 151 through the Gnigl part of Salzburg and straight up the Gaisberg. Experience a different side of Salzburg and explore the expanses of the Gaisberg Mountain!

Volksgarten Salzburg

• The park is open 24/7 and entrance is free!
• A quiet piece of nature in the middle of the beautiful city
• Easily accessible by public transportation

Volksgarten Salzburg is a spacious urban park with plenty of activities to offer. During the summer months, guests can take advantage of the two large outdoor swimming pools, which are the oldest and second oldest swimming pools in the city.

The spacious pool area also offers sunbathing areas, drinking fountains, lockers, a snack bar, table tennis, and parlor games. The pool area is open daily from May to mid-September, from 9:00 am – 7:00 pm and the entrance fee is USD $6.00.

There are also beach volleyball courts, soccer fields, gym equipment, and miles of running/walking paths!

Every summer the park sets up a summer cinema series where weekly movies are screened, and admission is free! Make sure to check the park’s event calendar for the full list of dates.

If you’re looking for things to do in Salzburg in winter, the area turns into a winter wonderland! There is an ice rink set up for hockey and ice skating!

Whether you’re spending one day in Salzburg or more, pay attention to your safety.

Overall, you should have nothing to worry about when you’re visiting Salzburg. The city is considered extremely safe for tourists to travel to and just like all the other areas of Austria, it has an extremely low crime rate.

However, the usual common-sense precautions still apply. Avoid walking alone late at night, never leave your drinks unattended, and always keep an eye on your personal belongings.

Pickpocketing does occur, although rarely, in the busy areas of the city and on public transport. Some locals have reported the areas north of the train station and near the Basilica of Maria Plain to be a bit dodgy at night.

If you’re traveling to Salzburg for 2 days via an overnight train and spending the night in a sleeping compartment, keep all of your valuables in the special container provided under your bed.

Overall, the risk of warning and dangers in Salzburg are low across the board. 

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Day trips from Salzburg are a great way to explore even more of Austria’s gorgeous landscape! They also offer travelers a chance to learn more about the culture. These trips highlight the areas outside the city and are a great option if you’re spending 3 days in Salzburg, or more! 

From Salzburg: Eagle’s Nest Mountain Retreat Tour

Cross the German border into the Bavarian Alps and visit Hitler’s former conference center and mountain retreat – the Eagle’s Nest. The building was originally gifted to Adolf Hitler for his 50th birthday, and he held many meetings inside its walls. Explore the old conference room, dining area, and a small tea room with terraces.

This popular attraction offers great historical insight and information into the life of Hitler. The Eagles Nest retreat is located in the Kehlstein Mountains, and the grounds of the complex, as well as the drive up, provide guests with spectacular mountain views!

Tour to Hallstatt from Salzburg

Enjoy a day of exploring Hallstatt, a village on Lake Hallstatt’s western shore in Austria’s mountainous Salzkammergut region. Pass through the famous Salzkammergut en route to Hallstatt, known as the Pearl of the Salzkammergut. You’ll see charming villages and be provided with an introduction to Hallstatt and the Salzkammergut!

In Hallstatt, take in the sights and sounds as you explore the city! Enjoy a leisurely walk along the lake and marvel at the cozy houses clinging to the mountainside. Pass by the Muhlbach waterfall and visit the local museum. The Bone House is one of the city’s most popular attractions and will give you an interesting view of local family life!

Salzburg Sound of Music & Salt Mines Combined Tour Package

Salzburg is famous as being the location where the 1965 musical “ The Sound of Music ” was set, therefore, visiting the famous locations associated with the movie is the ultimate Salzburg experience! Travel to the beautiful areas in and around Salzburg, relive your favorite moments from the film, and take in the beauty of the natural landscape!

Explore another popular Salzburg attraction, the underworld caverns of the Salt Mines. Learn the history of how salt gave the area its economic wealth. Enjoy a day of history, adventure, and amazement as you relive the story of the Von Trapps, explore the lush landscape of Austria, and gain a better understanding of Salzburg’s past.

Grossglockner High Alpine Road Day Trip

Discover the Grossglockner High Alpine Road in the heart of the Hohe Tauern National Park and learn about the fascinating landscape, geology, and environment of the area!

Stop by Hochmais for a quick photo opportunity and admire the surrounding mountains. Continue on to the Haus Alpine Naturschau and enjoy a short tour of the indoor and outdoor exhibitions!

Lastly, hike towards Kaiser-Franz-Josefs-Höhe and the Wilhelm-Swarovski Observatory or on the Gamsgrubenweg trail, depending on your desired hiking difficulty level. Enjoy a perfect day of sightseeing and experiencing the iconic mountains of Austria!

Bavarian Mountains Tour from Salzburg

Enjoy a day of fun and adventure as you travel to the famous Bavarian Mountains, also called the Bavarian Alps. Spend a day in awe of the towering mountain peaks and pristine lakes! Enjoy a relaxing stroll along Königssee (King’s Lake) to Obersalzberg, where the second headquarters of the Third Reich used to be located.

Marvel at the legendary Watzmann, one of the mountain’s most prominent peaks. Lastly, visit the charming town of Berchtesgaden on your way back to Salzburg, where you’ll be able to sample some Bavarian specialties, like apple strudel!

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Find out what people want to know when planning their Salzburg itinerary.

How many days should you spend in Salzburg?

Staying 2-3 full days in Salzburg is plenty enough time to get to know the city and see the most important attractions. However, that won’t give you time to just chill, so if you can add more time to your stay, you’ll have a much more pleasant experience.

What should you not miss in Salzburg?

The Mirabell Palace and Gardens is probably one of the most popuar attractions in Salzburg – and for good reason – it’s a totally unique place with interesting history.

What is the best time to visit Salzburg?

Visiting during the summer months (June to August) opens the most attractions to visit, however, coming in winter means beautiful decorations, a charming vibe and amazing Christmas markets.

Is Salzburg worth visiting?

Salzburg is one of the prettiest cities in Austria and definitely worth a visit. With crisp, clean air, tidy streets, and snow-capped mountains, countless visitors are allured by Salzburg’s fairytale-like enchantment.

We hope you’ve enjoyed our itinerary for Salzburg and that you’re able to put it to use!

This charming Austrian city has so much to offer, from imposing palaces with spectacular scenery to cozy cafes and quaint architecture. 2 days in Salzburg is a traveler’s dream! All the main sights are close to the city center, and it’s entirely possible to spend all day walking around – without having to use any public transport!

It’s impossible not to fall in love with this magical city, and you’ll be entertained your whole trip, as Salzburg is stuffed to the brim with cultural sights and other delights! If you’re pushed for time, then why not visit Salzburg on a day trip from Vienna .

• The BEST areas to stay in Innsbruck?
• Things I wish I knew before traveling
• EPIC hikes in Austria to add to your bucket list
• Your ultimate guide to backpacking Vienna
• Where to stay in Vienna

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

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Discover Salzburg on a Budget: Best Low-Cost Hidden Gems

Explorer’s note: Some links in this post are affiliate links. If you make a booking through them, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps us keep providing tours and top-notch travel advice.

In another article, I wrote  about the Salzburg Card  and how to use it. The Salzburg Card is the best deal if you want to save money while visiting all the sights. 

I understand, however, if you are on a budget. You only want to hang out, take pictures, and inhale the city.

There are plenty of Free Things to do in Salzburg, and in this article, I will introduce you to some of my favorites.

Hohensalzburg Fortress

The fortress is a must-do in Salzburg. Not because of the museums and not for its history but the views. How is that in a list of free activities in Salzburg, you might ask. Let me explain. After the fortress closes, the gate remains open for another hour or two. You can get up and in for free if you walk instead of taking the funicular.

The big gate closes an hour or two after closing time, but the small door inside the big gate only opens from the inside. This means you can stay as long as you want. Depending on the season, you can explore the building and then enjoy the sunset. The museums are closed, but the rest of the fortress remains open.

If you would like to learn about the fortress before visiting, here is an article about the history of Hohensalzburg.

Hiking for more Stunning Views

You can hike several mountains right from the city center of Salzburg. Salzburg has three city mountains. Two of them, Mönchsberg and Kapuzinerberg, are right in the old town. The third mountain, Gaisberg, is a little further away, but if you are up for a day hike, you could even reach the top of Gaisberg walking from the city center.

The easiest hike would be Mönchsberg. Mönchsberg surrounds the old town on the left side of the river. Once you are on the mountain, it is flat. A good plan would be to start your hike from Mülln and Müllner Steg and hike all along the hill. Time your adventure, so you get to the fortress right after closing time. As I mentioned before, the fortress is free after closing time. Here is an article to find out more about the city hikes of Salzburg and another article on the best views in Salzburg which you find on these mountains.

Still an easy hike, however, more strenuous is the hike along Kapuzinerberg. Kapuzinerberg, on the right side of the river, feels more like a real mountain and is the recreational area of Salzburg. There is almost only forest, and with 640 meters, Kapuzinerberg is higher than Mönchsberg.

Gaisberg is a real mountain. While still an easy hike, Gaisberg can certainly be exhausting. You climb almost 1000 meters in altitude to the top, which will take you about 3 hours from the city center. If that exhausts you, you can get back from the mountain by bus number 151. The bus goes all the way to the top of Gaisberg.

Many more hikes are in the surroundings of Salzburg, but these are these three mountains are the ones you can reach, spending no money. Most other mountains require public transport, cable cars and or more time and experience.

Here I created a complete guide on hiking on the three city mountains of Salzburg.

Visit more Churches

There are an incredible amount of over 20 churches in the small old town of Salzburg. You will find one on almost every corner. Many of them are unique and filled with stunning art. I encourage you to visit as many as you can. All of them are free. Some of them are more special than others. My favorites would be the University Church, the Franciscan Church, and the Church of Saint Peter, but there are many more. Here is an article that highlights all of the churches in the old town of Salzburg .

Salzburg Cathedral

The Salzburg Cathedral is a stunning piece of art and deserves its chapter. See the Cathedral from the inside! I sometimes meet people who turned around at the entrance after seeing the donation box thinking it requires an entrance fee. It doesn’t. Check out the crypt in the front on the left side. Stairs are leading down to where the archbishops are buried. One of the 14 modern art pieces from the Salzburg foundation is located in the crypt as well.

Read this article if you would like to find out more about the Salzburg Cathedral and know why I consider it an absolute must.

The Walk of Modern Art

Speaking of the artwork of the Salzburg Foundation inside the cathedral. The Salzburg Foundation is a private initiative. From 2002 on, they placed modern art in public spaces as part of the Walk of Modern Art. The project is meant for us to enjoy art outside of museums and as a counter-movement to the patronage in Salzburg.

The Salzburg Foundation nowadays consists of 14 artworks as part of the “Walk of Modern Art”. The walk is a fantastic way to explore Salzburg. The artwork is all over the place. By exploring them, you are also exploring all of Salzburg. Red signs mark each of the artworks and give information.

Here is a Self Guided Tour along the Walk of Modern Art and more information about each of the Modern Art Pieces.

Our meeting point, for example, the “spirit of Mozart”, is part of the Salzburg Foundation and also the “Beyond Recall” cubes in each of the corners of the bridge. I am not a fan of modern art but the more I research and the more I know of the art in Salzburg, the more I like the Salzburg Foundation’s Art.

The Hangar, next to the Salzburg airport, houses the planes, helicopters, and racing cars of the founder of Red Bull, Dietrich Mateschitz. He is the richest man in Austria and sponsors lots of sports, including the Salzburg soccer team, Salzburg ice hockey, and many extreme sports. The entrance to Hangar 7 is free.

I have to confess. Until today I have never visited the Hangar. If I will, I will update this post with pictures and more recommendations. If you visit the Hangar, please post your opinion in the comments. I would be very curious to know about your experience.

The Hangar also includes a Restaurant called “Ikarus” but is far from free. They invite a different international celebrity chef every month Gault Millau rates the restaurant with 18 points out of 20, which means three toques out of 4.

Student Concerts

Mozarteum is the world-famous music and arts university of Salzburg. About 1700 students are attending it, and they need to rehearse. Preferably in front of an audience to make the rehearsal realistic. That’s where you come into play. You can visit these rehearsals for free. They are just as good if not better than paid concerts.

The concerts are available during the semester and depend on the instruments that are practiced. If it’s a piano, guitar, or violin performance, the concert is always worth going to. The schedule is only available in German, but the only thing that matters to you is the time and where the performance takes place. Usually, the rehearsals are in the University itself, which is the grey building in Mirabell Gardens. Follow  this link  to find the schedule for the concerts!

Siemens Festival Nights

Student Concerts don’t happen in summer because the universities are on holiday. That, however, should not stop you from finding music in Salzburg for free. The main event in Salzburg is the Salzburg Festival in July and August. The Festival is the biggest classical music festival in the world and attracts 250.000 visitors every year.

The tickets are expensive, and the popular operas are sold out, but since 2002 there has been a way to enjoy opera for free. Not live but on a giant LED screen at Kapitelplatz. Some shows are live streams from the concert hall, and for popular operas, thousands of people gather on the square. The atmosphere is beautiful during warm summer nights, and I would recommend hanging out even if opera is not for you.

Here you find more on where to find Concerts in Salzburg and here you find out everything there is to know about the Salzburg Festival .

Free Walking Tour Salzburg

Well, you might have guessed it. Last but not least. Something to do in Salzburg for free is join one of my tours to get an overview. The tour is tip-based. You are probably familiar with the concept. At the end of the tour, you pay what you want and what the tour is worth to you. Not only what you want but what you can. Meaning you don’t need to pay if you are on a tight budget.

Preferably you join the tour at the beginning of your stay to get familiar with the history, and the main sights and get recommendations to plan the rest of your time in Salzburg.

Check the schedule and reserve your spot .

We are looking forward to guiding you!

These are some of my favorites, but this list is non-exhaustible. I would say that Salzburg despite its size has a higher density of exciting things to see than most other cities. You won’t even need instructions to find many free things to do in Salzburg.

My name is Gerhard, Founder of Free Walking Tour Salzburg. I am an intrepid traveler myself and understand the passion for adventure that independent travelers feel. I love to interact with travelers, share stories, answer questions, recommend places to eat, and offer ideas of things to see and do.

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Best 2 Days in Salzburg Itinerary & Guide

UPDATED 9/23/23

If you’re using my How to See Italy and Austria in 2 Weeks Solo , let’s get you ready for the next leg of your Austria solo travel by learning how you can see the best of Salzburg on a budget with this incredible 2 days in Salzburg itinerary.

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All You Need for 2 Days in Salzburg

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Here are all of the sites you need to successfully book this perfect budget 2 days in Salzburg itinerary. I even give you my Salzburg hotel pick as a conveniently located and budget friendly stay for solo weekend in Salzburg.

I recommend you bookmark and use these sites early to lock in your Salzburg 2 day itinerary and get the best Austria travel deals.

Trains to Salzburg

Buses to Salzburg

Salzburg Card

Salzburg City Center Hotels

My Salzburg Hotel Pick

Salzburg City Center Hostels

If you’re a first-time traveler to Austria, also use my amazing Austria Solo Travel Guide full of tips on culture, entry requirements, currency, tipping, using electronics, safety, and a lot more.

Best of Austria and Germany in 14 Days Solo

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Salzburg on a Budget (or Not)

It is possible to see Salzburg on a budget as a single traveler. To help provide more Innsbruck budgeting options, peruse my Guide to Budget European Accommodations for additional accommodation-planning.

Let me state here that when I say “budget”, I mean your daily travel expenses could total €150 or less, which is possible. It’s up to you on where you wish to budget (accommodations, excursions, etc.), and how far in advance you book. Some attractions can be seen without a tour, which will save you money, of course.

This Salzburg 2 day itinerary and travel guide can work for anyone, however, budget or not.

Ok, now let’s get you to Salzburg.

Nestled in the Alps near the German border, Salzburg is a picturesque town that boasts the birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart.  

The capital of the Bundesland Provence and the 4 th  largest city in Austria, Salzburg holds an Old Town (Alstadt) and New Town (Neustadt) that are divided by the Salzach River.

The Alstadt, a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site , is very pedestrian friendly splendid with its surrounding medieval and baroque architecture. 

More Solo Tips & Ideas

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Arriving Salzburg

From Innsbruck, Vienna or any other Austria locations, it is more than likely you will arrive at the Salzburg Hauptbahnhof, the main train station and a major hub in western Austria.

Salzburg is Walkable

Most of Salzburg can be done on foot, so from there you can walk or take a shuttle to your hotel if you prefer. 

Salzburg is hilly, so wear a good pair of walking shoes and stay hydrated if traveling to Salzburg in the summer season. Do not push yourself.

You’ll ideally want to stay within the Salzburg historical center and  walking distance of the main train station.  If you don’t want to walk you could catch a taxi to your hotel that should cost no more than €10 (confirm the fare with the driver in advance).  For ease of arriving and departing Salzburg, and walking around for the best Salzburg sights, I recommend staying within the circle on the map:

For budget purposes, my hotel recommendation for the money with breakfast and taxes included at €70/night is Gästehaus im Priesterseminar Salzburg . It is is close the city center with a very nice breakfast, and includes all of the lovely amenities you could need.

Many accommodations may not let you check in until 2-4pm, but if available, have them store your luggage until your room is ready so you can get out and enjoy Salzburg.

If you want cheaper accommodations, there are other hotels and hostels to choose from starting at around €15/night, depending on what amenities and location you want, you can choose from Salzburg city center hostels .

Conversely, if you want to pay more, take a look at Salzburg accommodations .  I would still recommend staying in the suggested area noted above.

Here are some top Salzburg attractions that could easily be considered “must do’s”:

• Festung Hohensalzburg (Hohensalzburg Fortress) – the most fascinating attraction in Salzburg, in my humble opinion, this towering fortress on the hill was built in the 11 th century and has since served as a prison, an army camp and military stronghold. Catch the cable railway at the base of the hill to ascend and descend. I would take a guided tour to absorb its history, but the best part of this fortress is the incredible views of Salzburg and beyond. Note, this attraction is not open year-round.
• Salzburg Altstadt (Old Town) – free to wander around, and the heart of Baroque style architecture with cobblestone streets, the Old Town section of Salzburg on the left bank of the Salzach River holds markets, the Salzburg Museum, shopping, Mozarts Geburtsthaus, churches, and more – all under the backdrop of the Hohensalzburg Fortress. Get in some good shopping on Getreidegasse or take a rest at Mozartplatz (Mozart Square).
• Dom zu Salzburg  (Salzburg Cathedral) – rebuilt after WWII in all its Baroque glory, enjoy the turquoise domes, amazing façade and sculptures for FREE. Ensure to know the entrance times as they may change.
• Schloss Mirabell (Mirabell Palace) – hosts Salzburg’s municipal government, entry is also free.
• Mirabellgarten (Mirabell Gardens) – also free, you may recognize the steps from the “Do-Re-Mi” song from “The Sound of Music, but also enjoy the Baroque Angel Staircase, beautiful paths and sculptures surrounded by flowers.
• Schloss Hellbrunn (Hellbrunn Palace) – also part of the “The Sound of Music” (“Sixteen Going on Seventeen” gazebo scene), the 17 th century palace has it all – from exquisite ballrooms to an octagonal music rooms to trick fountains that shoot water at you. Note: not all access is open year-round.

• Residenz Neugebäude (New Residence) – opposite of Residenz Palace entrance, this residence was built in the 16 th century with a tower that is home to a 35-bell Glockenspiel.
• Salzburg Museum – housed in the Residenz Neugebäude, it’s a beautiful place to take in some great art.
• Stift St Peter (St. Peter’s Abbey) – built in the 7 th century, this Benedictine Monastery is a former cathedral. It is the oldest in the German-speaking monastery.
• Franziskanerkirche (Franciscan Church) – built in the 8 th century, this is considered the oldest Franciscan church in Salzburg.
• Residenzegalarie Salzburg – an art gallery housing 16 th  to 19 th  century works. One ticket to the Dom Quartier gets you entry to 5 museums.
• Altes Rathaus (Old City Hall) – a Medieval building, which formerly served as city hall.
• Mozarts Geburtsthaus – the birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and where he was raised until 1773.
• Mozarts Wohnhaus – after the Geburtsthaus, this is where Mozart lived composing music before he relocated to Vienna.

If you would like to join a group and meet people, check out the tours of Salzburg, such as a guided walking tour , bicycle tour , a river cruise with dinner and music , or a Hop-On, Hop-Off bus . Additionally, there are tours of the surrounding Salzburg area, like the Sound of Music tour or an Austrian countryside tour .

Depending on your tastes and how many attractions you wish to see, it would be worth your time to check out the Salzburg Card , offered in 24, 48 and 72-hour timeframes. Plus, the Salzburg Card offers packages that include hotel and dining.

Italy and Austria 2 Week Itinerary

Salzburg events calendar.

If it helps in planning what you would like to see, here is a list of annual events held in Salzburg .

What would a visit to Salzburg be if you didn’t visit its famous  Augustiner Bräerstübl Beer Hall ? If you’re really into beer, why not try walking the Salzburg beer route to see Salzburg’s breweries and taverns?  The Augustiner Bräu also has traditional cuisine such as Wiener Schnitzel, Fleischkknödel or Spätzle. 

If you want more choices than just Austrian fare, check out the 10 Best Restaurants in Austria .  

If you are enjoying Salzburg and want to see more sights than in just one day, I totally understand. Salzburg is stunning. However, if you would like to get out to see more amazing Austrian countryside, I highly recommend a day trip to Hallstatt , whether or not you have perfect weather.

If a Hallstatt day-trip piques your interest, you can do a day tour to Hallstatt or just go by yourself if you’re doing Salzburg on a budget.

Hallstatt Day Trip on a Budget

By yourself, I suggest you purchase a round trip train ticket in advance to Hallstatt departing Salzburg no later than 9am.  

Depending on your departure time, it can take as little as 2.25 hours to arrive in Hallstatt, via Attnang-Puchheim, and cost as little as €9-15 each way, depending on how far in advance you book your train ticket . Make sure to know when the last return train departs for Salzburg.

You can then arrive at lunch time to soak in the lakeside scenery over a lazy lunch.  If you want to better your chances on avoid crowds, go earlier in the morning, on a weekday and in the off season. By taking the train, you already don’t have to deal with parking, which is a bonus for you.

Hallstatt is a town to just relax and meander or hike. Don’t try to “do it all”.  Take it easy. Explore the town shops, walk along the water, and take in the sun.  The more time you have the more scenic views you can experience with great snaps to share with friends, like from the northern part of town (Aussichtspunkt Hallstatt).  

If you have more time, take the funicular up to the Hallstatt Skywalk 350 meters over the town of Hallstatt. You will not be disappointed by the views.  Still, any view of this region is amazing so try to put this little town on your bucket list.

2 Days in Salzburg Itinerary

Here is my suggested Salzburg 2 day itinerary so you can see how budget-friendly Salzburg can be without sacrificing comfort or skimping on the major sites on your single travel.

Salzburg on a Budget Tip

The itinerary below includes staying at the suggested Salzburg budget hotel, but does not include lunch, dinner, day trip tours, or using the Salzburg Card , which could possibly save more money.

This itinerary is an example of how single travelers can see Salzburg on a budget with top Salzburg attractions, for possibly at   €150 a day, if booked well in advance and the right tour or entry tickets are chosen.

More Budget Travel Tips & Ideas

• How to Create a Solo Travel Budget
• How To Save Money for Solo Travel
• Guide to European Budget Accommodations
• How to Travel Carry-On Only
• 10 Ways to Travel Without Traveling
• Arrive Salzburg / Check into hotel (or check bags)
• Festung Hohensalzburg
• Salzburg Altstadt / Getreidegasse / Mozartplatz / Altes Rathaus
• Schloss Mirabell / Mirabellgarten
• Dom zu Salzburg
• Hotel breakfast
• Residenz Neugebäude & Glockenspiel
• Salzburg Museum 
• Stift St Peter 
• Franziskanerkirche
• Residenzegalarie Salzburg 
• Mozarts Geburtsthaus 
• Mozarts Wohnhaus

Alternatively, spend your second day on a day trip to Hallstatt:

• Salzburg train to Hallstatt
• Explore Hallstatt – lunch (funicular optional)
• Train to Salzburg

Let Me Hear From You

I would love to hear if my suggested 2 days in Salzburg on a budget post was helpful to you. Post me your thoughts or questions in the Comment section below. Thank you!

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©Jonathon Stokes/Lonely Planet

The joke 'If it ain't baroque, don't fix it' is a perfect maxim for Salzburg: the story-book Altstadt (old town) burrowed below steep hills looks much as it did when Mozart lived here 250 years ago. Beside the fast-flowing Salzach River, your gaze is raised inch by inch to graceful domes and spires, the formidable clifftop fortress and the mountains beyond. It's a backdrop that did the lordly prince-archbishops and Maria proud.

Best Time to Visit

Best things to do, your next trip starts here.

Go from dreaming to planning with trip planning options made to help you craft your ideal itinerary.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Schloss Hellbrunn

A prince-archbishop with a wicked sense of humour, Markus Sittikus, built Schloss Hellbrunn in the early 17th century as a summer palace and an escape…

Festung Hohensalzburg

Salzburg's most visible icon is this mighty, 900-year-old clifftop fortress, one of the biggest and best preserved in Europe. It's easy to spend half a…

The crowning glory of Salzburg's DomQuartier, the Residenz is where the prince-archbishops held court until Salzburg became part of the Habsburg Empire in…

Salzburg Museum

Housed in the baroque Neue Residenz palace, this flagship museum takes you on a fascinating romp through Salzburg past and present. Ornate rooms showcase…

Schloss Mirabell

Prince-Archbishop Wolf Dietrich built this splendid palace in 1606 to impress his beloved mistress, Salome Alt. It must have done the trick because she…

Rising above Salzburg and straddling the German border is the rugged 1853m peak of Untersberg. Spectacular views of the city, the Rositten Valley and the…

Erzabtei St Peter

A Frankish missionary named Rupert founded this abbey-church and monastery in around 700, making it the oldest in the German-speaking world. Though a…

Museum der Moderne

Straddling Mönchsberg’s cliffs, this contemporary glass-and-marble oblong of a gallery stands in stark contrast to the fortress, and shows first-rate…

Top picks from our travel experts

The 12 best things to do in salzburg.

Schlosskonzerte

A fantasy of coloured marble, stucco and frescos, the baroque Marmorsaal (Marble Hall) at Schloss Mirabell is the exquisite setting for these chamber…

Stift Nonnberg

A short climb up the Nonnbergstiege staircase from Kaigasse or along Festungsgasse brings you to this Benedictine convent, founded 1300 years ago and made…

On the right bank of the Salzach River, this narrow, cobbled lane was, incredibly, the main trade route to Italy in medieval times. Look out for the 13th…

Salzburger Marionettentheater

The red curtain goes up on a miniature stage at this marionette theatre, a lavish stucco, cherub and chandelier-lit affair founded in 1913. The repertoire…

Augustiner Bräustübl

Who says monks can’t enjoy themselves? Since 1621, this cheery, monastery-run brewery has served potent home brews in beer steins, in the vaulted hall and…

Sizzling and stirring since 1663, Bärenwirt is Austrian through and through. Go for hearty Bierbraten (beer roast) with dumplings, locally caught trout or…

Salzburg for free: how to live it up in the city of Mozart and Maria for nothing

Hosts regular concerts, with performances ranging from tango to electro, as well as workshops and club nights. Don’t miss the free Tuesday-night jam…

Schloss Leopoldskron

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The Ultimate 2 to 3 Days in Salzburg Itinerary

Last Updated on January 15, 2024

by Maggie Turansky

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Are you visiting Austria and considering planning a 2 to 3 days in Salzburg itinerary? Well, look no further.

Located in the west of Austria not far from the German city of Munich , Salzburg has been a popular place for visitors for decades and is famous for being the birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and the setting of the 1965 film The Sound of Music . However, Salzburg has much more to offer than simply these two facets.

If you’re considering a visit to this pretty, compact and historic city, planning out an itinerary is essential to maximising the time you will spend there. For such a small city, there really is a lot to do and you’re sure to quickly fall in love with this beautiful town!

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Salzburg?

Before I jump into the details of what to do in the city, you’re likely wondering how many days to spend in Salzburg.

As I’ve mentioned previously, there are plenty of things to do in the city, however, it is also quite compact and many simply opt for a Salzburg day trip from cities like Vienna or Munich. While this is certainly doable, you will get much more out of the city if you spend a bit more time there.

Ideally, you want to try and spend at least 2 days in Salzburg. This will give you enough time to see the main sites while also visiting some museums, taking in a concert and simply allowing you to enjoy the city at a more leisurely pace.

If you have even more time to devote, then consider spending 3 days. This will allow you to visit some areas that lie a bit outside of the city centre, whether that be some historic castles, ice caves, alpine lakes, waterfalls and more. The countryside in this part of Austria is some of the most beautiful in Europe and really worth visiting.

Getting To & Around Salzburg

Salzburg is a major metropolitan area in Austria and is also quite popular with tourism, so this isn’t a difficult city to reach by any means.

Depending on where you are coming from, there are a number of ways to reach Salzburg. There are numerous direct trains and buses from cities like Innsbruck , Munich and Vienna and you can even easily reach the city from Prague or elsewhere in neighbouring countries. You can browse train schedules here.

Many visitors to Salzburg will also arrive by car, especially if they’re on an extended road trip through Austria.

While you certainly don’t need your own vehicle to get around the centre of Salzburg (this would actually be massively inconvenient), having a car can be quite beneficial if you plan to spend 3 days in Salzburg and are going to do a day trip or two as this will give you quite a bit of flexibility. If you choose to rent a car, you can browse options here.

Once in Salzburg, you’ll find that the best way to navigate the city is on foot. Salzburg is very compact and you can pretty much walk from one end of the city centre to the other in about 15-20 minutes. And, besides the area around the fortress and Monchsberg, the city is quite flat so it isn’t too difficult to plan to traverse everything on your own two feet.

2 to 3 Day Salzburg Itinerary

Day 1 – main sites & fortress.

The first day of this itinerary takes you by the main sites of the city. Though Salzburg is quite small and compact, make sure to wear some good walking shoes today as you will be covering quite a bit of ground!

Coffee at Cafe Bazar

Begin your day at a classic Austrian cafe along the River Salzach — the Cafe Bazar.

Though cafe culture may be more associated with a city like Vienna rather than Salzburg, the tradition is actually quite pervasive throughout Austria and it’s something you can experience in cities throughout the country whether you find yourself in Linz or Graz or Salzburg or Vienna . But if you want to get a true Austro-Hungarian cafe experience in Salzburg, Cafe Bazar is really a great place to do it.

Here you can get classic Italian espresso drinks like a cappuccino or a macchiato or you can be a bit more local and get a traditional Austrian coffee, such as a kliener brauner (a shot of espresso served with milk). This is also a good place for breakfast should that be what you’re after.

Getreidegasse

After you’re sufficiently caffeinated, take a stroll across the river to explore the historic centre of Salzburg and take in one of its most iconic streets – Getreidegasse.

Winding through the beautiful baroque architecture, this is the high street of central Salzburg and comes with international shopping options along with a number of historic sites to see.

For instance, while you see how the shopfronts of McDonald’s or an H&M have been seamlessly incorporated into the aesthetic of this street, you can also wander by the birthplace of one Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Salzburg’s most famous resident.

Mozart himself moved to another residence across the river once he was older, however, both homes are available to visit if you should wish.

If you do want to visit both of these museums, it can be worth purchasing the Salzburg Card , where entry is included in the price along with most other attractions in the city.

Once you’ve strolled through the main drag, head a bit further into the city centre and browse through the Grünmarkt – an open-air market that is in operation every day of the week except Sunday.

While this isn’t Salzburg’s main market (that takes place across the street from Mirabell Palace on Thursdays), it does have an array of interesting things to browse through and will allow you to pick up some unique souvenirs from local sources.

Salzburg Cathedral

After browsing through the Grünmarkt, stroll over to the pivotal focal point of central Salzburg – its grand cathedral.

Salzburg was run by the Catholic Church until the early 19th Century and didn’t even become part of what is now modern Austria (then part of the Hapsburg empire) until 1816. Because of this, there are grand Catholic churches dotted around Salzburg but there is one that stands above others — and that is the Salzburg Cathedral.

Entry into the Cathedral is free (though there is a stand at the entrance that will solicit donations — this is optional) and it is really worth going inside and taking in the grandiosity. Another interesting facet of the Cathedral is the entrances, of which there are three doors.

Above each door, there is a date. The first door the year 774 is inscribed above it, describing the year that the first cathedral was built at this site. The second has the year 1628, when the construction of the main cathedral was completed and the third has 1959, when the reconstruction of the cathedral was completed after having been bombed in the Second World War.

Kollegienkirche

If the Salzburg Cathedral wasn’t enough for you to visit, head a few hundred metres away and visit the Kollegienkirche, or the Salzburg University Church.

This church is used mostly as a concert hall these days and is quite unique inside. Where the cathedral has classic frescos and stained glass, the Kollegienkirche is notable for its stark white interior, which is bright and incredibly beautiful.

Like the Cathedral, entry to this church is free of charge.

Residenzplatz

After taking in these amazing sites, find your way to Residenzplatz — Salzburg’s main square.

This large open area is where you will find a beautiful fountain surrounded by the former residence of the Archbishop of Salzburg (which houses a classical art museum), the Salzburg Museum, which is home to a number of historic artefacts from the city through the ages, and the Salzburg Glockenspiel, a belltower that plays songs three times per day.

Residenzplatz is also home to Salzburg’s biggest and most iconic Christmas market, Christkindlmarkt.

You can see all of these sites and more (along with gaining some important historical context) on the Salzburg Free Walking Tour . This tour runs daily and must be booked in advance. Though the tour is free of charge, it is customary to tip the guide at the end as this is how they make their living.

If the free walking tour doesn’t suit your schedule, there are also paid walking tours that run more frequently.

After all of this sightseeing, it’s likely that you’ve worked up quite the appetite. We recommend heading over to the nearby Mus Deli for some modern Austrian & European food at affordable prices. The menu is only in German, however, the staff speak English and will help you with what is on offer.

Now that you’ve refuelled after an eventful morning of sightseeing, it’s time to visit Salzburg’s most imposing and famous landmark — the Hohensalzburg Fortress.

Hohensalzburg Fortress

Sat atop a hill overlooking the city, this is the most iconic part of the city’s skyline and it is considered to be one of the best-preserved fortresses of its kind in Europe.

You can access the fortress either via funicular or by walking up the hill and paying for entry at the top. Entry with the funicular costs €14 per person and without it it is €10.80. Because of all of the walking (and the hike as the next activity on this Salzburg itinerary), I would recommend spending the extra money in order to take the funicular. It is possible to pre-book tickets here.

The fortress consists of several different museums and viewpoints where you can learn about the history of this iconic fortification. There is also a marionette museum there which I found to be a bit creepy, but may be of interest to some.

Hike on Monchsberg

After visiting the fortress, take the time to explore the hill this beautiful building lies on (and get some iconic views, as well) – Monchsberg.

There is a network of hiking trails along Monchsberg that are all incredibly well-maintained and popular for walkers to explore. We recommend walking on the trail in the direction of the Museum of Modern Art before heading down to the Augustiner Brau brewery.

If you’re looking for a great photo-op that includes both the city of Salzburg and amazing views of the fortress, take the time to stop outside of the Museum of Modern Art before continuing on.

The walking trail that I am recommending is well-maintained and relatively flat so it is really an easy hike until you reach your final destination (and comes with some beautiful views, as well).

Augustiner Brau

As a reward for all of the walking and hard work, end your hike at the Augustiner Brau brewery, a classic Austrian beer hall that is sure to give you an authentic Salzburger experience.

This beer hall has different areas where you can enjoy a stein of freshly brewed beer and also food stands where you can grab a snack or a meal (you are also welcome to bring your own food). If the weather is nice, we recommend finding a place in the larger beer garden.

When getting a beer, you can choose between 300ml, 500ml or 1-litre sizes. You pay for your beer at the counter, the cashier will give you a ticket, then you pick up your ceramic steins, rinse them out in the communal tap, and bring them to the barman where he will fill it up for you (in exchange for your ticket!). Make sure to follow the lead of the seasoned locals in front of you to pick up on the etiquette.

This is an excellent experience in Salzburg that I highly recommend.

Evening Concert

After an exhausting day of seeing all of the sites, spend your evening taking in another thing that makes Salzburg famous — classical music! There are countless options to be able to take in a concert in Salzburg depending on which night you’re visiting and what you’re after.

If you’re looking to book some tickets online, some options include this “Best of Mozart” concert at Hohensalzburg Fortress or this concert at Mirabell Palace.

Day 2 – Gardens, Palaces & Museums

If you’re spending 2 days in Salzburg, the second day is a bit more mellow than the first and will allow you to dig a bit deeper into the city and visit a few museums. We’d recommend looking into the Salzburg Card to save some money on entry into several museums and sites around the city.

Schrannemarkt

If you happen to be starting the second day on a Thursday, then make sure to visit the Schrannemarkt.

I, personally, love visiting open-air markets wherever it is that I’m visiting and Salzburg is no different. Located across the street from Mirabell Palace, this market is massive and has countless stalls selling fresh, seasonal produce and local products.

This is an excellent place to pick up some fixings for a picnic later or even buy some gastronomical souvenirs to bring home.

Mirabell Palace & Gardens

If it’s not a Thursday or if markets don’t interest you, start your day at the Mirabell Palace & Gardens. Perhaps most famous as a filming location of The Sound of Music (notably in the “Do-Re-Mi” song), these gardens, in particular, are absolutely gorgeous and worth strolling in and enjoying for as long as you may fancy.

The palace itself is also open for visitors and is notable for its beautiful Marble Hall, which, prior to 2020, hosted over 1000 weddings each year.

The palace (and gardens) are free to enter and you can visit the Marble Hall — it is located on the first floor and is behind a closed door (however, if it is unlocked you can enter so don’t be discouraged!).

This is a primary filming location of The Sound of Music but if you want to dive even more into the making of the film in Salzburg, you can book a Sound of Music tour that will take you by all of the filming locations and more!

Visit a Museum

After enjoying the Mirabell Palace and gardens, take the time to head to a museum or two to learn more about Salzburg, or its most famous resident — Mozart.

You can opt to head to the nearby Mozart House on the north side of the river or to his birthplace on Getreidegasse. Alternatively, visit the Salzburg Museum or even the Museum of Modern Art.

There are countless museums in the city that you could easily fill the entire day.

You’ve likely worked up a bit of an appetite with your sightseeing for the day so take the time to have a quick lunch break at one of Salzburg’s great eateries.

If you’re looking for some international fare, we can recommend Xinchao , a Vietnamese place that has excellent bahn mi.

If you’re after Austrian Cuisine, Gasthaus Zwettler comes recommended, however, we did not eat here ourselves.

Cruise on the River Salzach

On day one of this Salzburg itinerary, you had the opportunity to see Salzburg from above on the view from Monchsberg. Now, it’s time to get a different (and slightly more relaxing) perspective of the city by going on a river cruise.

There are lots of options to cruise up and down the Salzach, such as this 40-minute tour that leaves several times a day.

Sunset Hike up Kapuzinerberg

After a relaxing cruise along the Salzach, it’s time to get a bit active once more and hike up the other major hill dominating Salzburg’s skyline, Kapuzinberg.

This hill, located on the north side of the city, provides a different perspective and excellent views of the Hohensalzburg Fortress and the city below. If you want to get the best photos, head up there just before sunset to really see the city glow under the later afternoon sunshine.

After a busy couple of days, it’s time to reward yourself with a locally brewed beer! You’ve already been to Augustiner Brau so plan to go somewhere a bit more trendy this time, Die Wiesse.

This brewery has several locally brewed wheat beers on tap (some seasonal brews, as well). They have a large and inviting beer garden that is lovely to relax in on warm days and also have a full kitchen, so it’s a great place to grab dinner should you wish, as well.

Day 3 – Explore the Surrounding Area

If you are lucky enough to have 3 days in Salzburg, you can spend your third day going on a day trip somewhere in the surrounding area. Whether you’re looking for some outdoor adventures, beautiful natural wonders or historic castles, there are lots of options available.

Mondsee & Wolfgangsee

If you want to enjoy some tranquillity or watersports in an Alpine lake, then look no further than the lakes Mondsee and Wolfgangsee.

Both are located not far from central Salzburg, these are easy to reach and are absolutely beautiful to visit. Mondsee is bigger and a bit more developed, with lots of watersports and lakeside pubs and restaurants available.

Wolfgangsee is a bit smaller and not quite as busy, however, the town of St Gilgen on the northwest end of the lake can get very popular with tourists. All in all, both lakes are very easy to visit from Salzburg either by car or public transport and are well worth it.

Mondsee and Wolfgangsee are excellent alternatives to the over-visited town of Hallstatt — especially the charming town of St Gilgen on Wolfgangsee.

Werfen Ice Caves & Hohenwerfen Castle

If you’re looking for something jaw-dropping and active, consider visiting the Werfen Ice Caves. Located in the town of Werfen about 40km south of Salzburg, these ice caves are truly spectacular.

They are only open from May through October and a general level of fitness is recommended if you’d like the visit these caves. They are accessed either by a panoramic cable car ride or a steep hike. You can buy tickets in advance online.

Nearby the ice caves lies Hohenwerfen Castle , a medieval castle sat atop an imposing peak overlooking the town of Werfen.

It is considered to be a sister castle to the Hohensalzburg Fortress and is also known as a filming location for the 1968 film Where Eagles Dare . Hohenwerfecn Castle can also be seen in the background during the beginning of the “Do-Re-Mi” scene in, of course, The Sound of Music .

Schloss Hellbrun

Another excellent place to visit just outside of Salzburg (and actually included in the aforementioned Salzburg Card) is Schloss Hellbrun.

This palace is situated very close to central Salzburg and is a wonderful place to visit with children. Filled with beautiful fountains and grottos, you can wander through the water features and feel lost in a mystical world.

Gollinger Waterfall

And finally, if you’re looking for a day of hiking, look no further than the Gollinger Waterfall. Located roughly 30km south of Salzburg, this waterfall is absolutely stunning and is accessible to see from a short hike from the car park.

You get a view of the waterfall almost instantly, however, there is a well-marked and maintained trail that you can take to see the waterfall from different vantage points (this will take about 30 minutes in total to hike).

If you want to go further, there are a number of different hiking trails of various lengths that you can embark on in this area, as well.

Where to Stay in Salzburg

Gästehaus im Priesterseminar – If your budget allows for a bit more than a hostel, then this guesthouse could be a great option. Centrally located in the heart of Salzburg, this beautiful baroque building offers several great rooms.

Boutique Hotel Auersperg – If you’re after a bit of luxury while in Salzburg, then look no further than this elegant hotel. Family-run for generations, this hotel is centrally located close to all of the city’s top attractions. they have luxe rooms available and countless other amenities to ensure your stay is a great one.

Private Rental – If you want to feel like a local while in Salzburg, then a private apartment rental is a great choice for you. There are countless options available in the city, such as this bright central apartment that will suit all kinds of travellers.

Yoho International Youth Hostel – If you’re visiting Salzburg on a budget or are simply looking for a social atmosphere, then this centrally located hostel is a great option. They have both private and dorm rooms available and, for those who want it, a screening of “The Sound of Music” every evening.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Salzburg hotels!

Planning the perfect 2 or 3 days in Salzburg itinerary can be an overwhelming task when you consider how much there is to do in this small city. However, if you plan your time well, you’re sure to get the most out of this beautiful and historic Austrian town.

Are you visiting Austria? Have you been planning a trip to Salzburg? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

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About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

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THE 10 BEST Cheap Things to Do in Salzburg

Best budget-friendly things to do in salzburg.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
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• Budget-friendly
• Good for Couples
• Good for Kids
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Big Groups
• Honeymoon spot
• Hidden Gems
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Adventurous
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Fortress Hohensalzburg

2. Salzburger Altstadt

3. Mirabell Palace and Gardens

4. Untersberg

5. Salzburg Cathedral

6. Schloss Hellbrunn

7. Hangar-7

8. Haus der Natur

9. Petersfriedhof

10. St. Peter's Abbey (Stift St. Peter)

11. Wasserspiele Hellbrunn

12. Stiegl Brauwelt

13. DomQuartier Salzburg

14. Franziskanerkirche

15. Mozart's Birthplace

16. Stift Nonnberg

17. Alter Markt

18. Mozartplatz

19. Old City Hall (Altes Rathaus)

20. Residenzgalerie Salzburg

21. MoenchsbergAufzug

22. Lammerklamm

23. Friedhof Sankt Sebastian

24. Salzburg

25. Linzergasse

26. Augustiner Braustubl

27. Mozart Residence (Mozart Wohnhaus)

28. Makartsteg

29. EUROPARK

30. Spielzeugmuseum (Toy Museum)

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Salzburg Itinerary: A Travel Guide Blog

Last updated on April 5th, 2024

There are many reasons to visit Salzburg. This Salzburg itinerary is packed with all the great things to do, food to eat, and how to get to Salzburg for one day or two days trip. An ultimate travel guide to Salzburg!

Salzburg, literally translated as “salt fortress” is the fourth largest city in northwest Austria with spectacular views of the Eastern Alps at the German border. Well, most people are familiar with the fact that Salzburg is the place where the world-famous classical movie “The Sound of Music” was filmed and the birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, the greatest classical composer of all time.

The preserved picturesque city has many wonderful attractions including baroque architecture, splendid gardens, and medieval fortresses, all made Salzburg listed as UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997.

Many people visit Salzburg as part of the Central Europe trip by spending one and a two-day trip in Salzburg. However, the strategic location of Salzburg at the border of Germany and Austria, makes Salzburg a great home base to explore nearby places like Hallstatt, Berchtesgaden, and Munich.

Let’s check out our Salzburg travel guide blog , including what to do and see, the best food to eat, and some useful tips when visiting Salzburg.

Table of Contents

How to Get to Salzburg

Salzburg is readily accessible from every direction due to its ideal location at the border of Austria and Germany. There are many options available to the City of Mozart; air, rail, bus, or car.

By Flight : Airlines flying non-stop to Salzburg including British Airways and RyanAir in a cheaper fare. Salzburg W.A. Mozart Airport (SZG) is the second largest airport in Austria with a 4-km distance from Salzburg city center. The public bus connected the airport with the city center and train station in 15 minutes ride with a single ticket cost €2.50. While a taxi ride should cost less than €20 to the city center.

See Skyscanner for best rate

By Train : Located right on the border with Germany, Salzburg Hauptbahnhof is administered jointly by Austrian Railways (ÖBB) as well as German Rail (DB). The excellent rail network well connected Salzburg with numerous domestic as well as international cities. Travelers can visit Salzburg from Budapest, Bregenz, Linz, Innsbruck, Munich, Vienna, and Zurich with a fast and convenient rail journey.

By Bus : Long-distance coach travel is often the best option for budget travelers. Numerous bus companies including FlixBus, GoEuro, and Leo Express offer a fast, simple, and great money-saving way of getting to Salzburg. Bus stations are located right in front of Salzburg Main Station.

By Car : Salzburg is easy to access by car and is a great stop point for a road trip through Austria and Bavaria. However, all parking is fee-based in downtown Salzburg. So it is still highly recommended to use public transport to travel to the city center. If you need to rent a car to visit Salzburg, make sure to compare your price at Rentalcars.com with the best rate offer and high reputation from customers.

Getting Around Salzburg

Salzburg is a compact city with most main attractions are within the city center in Old Town (Altstadt). All places can be reached on foot and mostly are pedestrianized. While certain places like Untersberg, Schloss Hellbrunn, and Salzburg Stiegl-Brauwelt are located out of town they are required to take public transport to get there.

Salzburg has an excellent public transport system which greatly helps visitors to explore the city. A single ride on the bus cost €1.80 pre-paid, and €2.50 on board. Consider getting the 24 hours Transportation Pass if you don’t plan to visit any attraction but are required to ride the public transport. Save By 24 hours Transportation Pass. 2x will ride cost €5 while an unlimited 24-hour pass at €5.50!

Where To Stay

There are plenty of accommodation options in Salzburg. We will help to explain the best places to stay in Salzburg that we recommended based on your preference and budget.

For your best sleep in Salzburg, we recommended below:

• Best Luxury Stay :  Hotel Bristol Salzburg  and  Hotel Schloss Mönchstein
• Old Town :  IMLAUER HOTEL PITTER Salzburg  and  Hotel am Mirabellplatz
• Nearby Salzburg Station :  H+ Hotel Salzburg  and  ACHAT Plaza Zum Hirschen
• Best Place to stay on a budget :  Pension Jahn  and  MEININGER Hotel Salzburg City Center

More accommodation options and detail :  Where To Stay in Salzburg: Best Hotel For Holiday

Salzburg Travel Tips

Salzburg Card is essential as an all-inclusive travel card when visiting Salzburg. With a Salzburg card, free admission to mostly all Salzburg attractions including a museum, city attractions,s and a discount on concerts or other events. It also includes the free public transportation ride in the city center, including the rides on the Festungsbahn funicular, Untersberg Cable Car, Mönchsberg lift, and Salzach River Tour I.

Salzburg Itinerary

There are so many interesting places to plan for your 1-Day Salzburg itinerary. While most people are mainly looking for what to do and food to eat in Salzburg. No worry. We listed below must visit and eat in Salzburg for your day trip.

Things To Do for One Day Salzburg Itinerary:

Ride The Cable Car At Untersberg

Splash by water at trick fountains, schloss hellbrunn, enjoy the salzburg beer in stiegl-brauwelt, take the sound of music tour, exploring salzburg’s old town, visit the mirabell palace and garden, exploring linzer gasse platzl, wandering at getreidegasse, visit mozart birthplace, residenzplatz with salzburg cathedral and domquartier, take funicular ride to hohensalzburg fortress, kapitelplatz with golden sphere.

Whether you want to visit top sights in Salzburg or only indulge in some super fun based on your interest is all depends on you. Trust me, even in just visiting with one day Salzburg itinerary, there are so many unusual but joyful things that can be done in Salzburg.

Untersberg is one of the mountain peak recreation areas for locals and visitors. With just 10 minutes of the Untersberg cable car ride, you can have an incredible panorama view of Salzburg City and the nearby Berchtesgaden, Germany at the height of 1,776 m.

Once you reach the top, you will be mesmerized by the majestic view at the peak of the mountain. In good visibility, you can even see out to the Salzkammergut lakes as well as Lake Chiemsee in Bavaria. Hikers can also spend time exploring the hiking trail at Untersberg.

Schloss Hellbrunn was the summer palace built by the prince-archbishop of Salzburg, Markus Sittikus as a place to relax and entertain between 1612 and 1615. While the Trick Fountains were once used by Markus Sittikus to entertain his guests by surprising them with hidden water spray. Trick fountains can still be visited today to surprise unsuspecting visitors when touring the Palace.

The Wasserspiele Tour can be very fun and refreshing to kids or even adults, especially during the hot summer. The good thing about the Trick Fountains is you can join this fun tour for free by Salzburg Card

One of the oldest breweries in the world opened in 1492 and still working today. Salzburg Stiegl-Brauwelt is a popular brewing exhibition and offers tours to visitors to know more about history.

The guided tours are only running in German but the 270 brew cinema and exhibition display are clearly labeled in different languages including English. You will get some souvenirs and a glass of beer for free at the end of your visit.

A Salzburg trip cannot be deemed complete unless you take the Sound of the Music tour. It will be once in a lifetime experience especially if you’re a fan of the classic movie.

On Sound of Music Half Day Tour , original shooting locations can be visited. A trip down memory lane, with the scenes from the Sound of Music being experienced live.

The good thing about Salzburg is most of the attractions are concentrated around the old town (Altstadt) within walking distance from one another. Exploring by foot is one of the best things to do in Salzburg.

Their proximity makes it easy for visitors who only have a short amount of time to spend in Salzburg.

Stop by at Mirabell palaces and its beautiful garden. For Sound of Music fans, Mirabell Garden is not to be missed. The Pegasus fountain in the Mirabell garden is where the children danced around and sang “Do Re Mi” in the movie scene.

If you have time, don’t forget to visit Mozart’s Residence , a lane away from the Mirabell Garden. Mozart-Wohnhaus is special for Mozart’s fans and now is a museum where you can admire several artifacts used by the famous composer himself. An audio self-guided tour takes approximately 30 minutes.

Linzer Gasse Platzl is one of Salzburg’s most enchanting little pedestrian streets. The street is filled with great restaurants, charming coffee shops, and storied hotels. It is a great place to go for a walk and enjoy the city’s beautiful architecture.

Cross The Makartsteg Bridge

Take a short walk to the Makartsteg Bridge – the bridge of love . The bridge on the Salzach River is lively with beautiful views and thousand of padlocks left by locals and visitors, merely seeking to “lock” their love or memory of visiting Salzburg.

Cross the bridge to the other side after you admire the nice scene on the bridge.

Continue your short walk to the Getreidegasse, Salzburg’s most famous shopping street . Enjoy wandering around the cobbled stone street with wrought-iron guild signs hanging along the street. You can also spend some time shopping if you feel like it. 

To continue your exploration of the city’s rich history, you can visit Mozart’s birthplace in Old Town Salzburg, on no. 9 Getreidegasse street.

The canary yellow building is where Mozart lived from birth until age 17. You will find impeccably preserved writings and musical instruments on display including one of Mozart’s baby-sized violins.

Heading east until you reach the 16th-century square with a baroque fountain in its center. The square, called Residenzplatz , is bordered by the Salzburg Cathedral on the south side and Salzburg DomQuartier on the west.

Salzburg Cathedral is a seventeenth-century Baroque cathedral and was rebuilt in 1181 after a fire. While DomQuartier Salzburg is a large Baroque complex with tours that let you learn more about Salzburg’s art and cultural history with numerous paintings, old furniture, and religious art.

Salzburg is overlooked by its key landmark, Hohensalzburg Fortress on the southeastern summit. Take the short funicular ride or pleasant 20 minutes walk to the Hohensalzburg Fortress on your Salzburg day trip.

This ride is officially known as the Festungsbahn. Once you make it to the fortress, there are museums including Fortress Museum, Rainer Regiment Museum, and Golden Rooms to tour. However, the best part of visiting the fortress was the awesome view over Salzburg and the countryside with mild wind keep blowing.

After getting down from Hohensalzburg Fortress, continue walking to the western side of Salzburg to Kapitelplatz. Kapitelplatz features an oversized chessboard and a golden large sphere in the middle. This prominent attraction is an art piece called “Sphaera” with a perched on top.

Best Time To Visit Salzburg

Salzburg can be visited year-round. Similar to many other European cities, the peak season for visiting Salzburg is July until August during the summer holiday. While Salzburg Festival is held during this time, so expect large crowds to come to visit Salzburg.

If you want nice weather but fewer crowds, the best time to visit Salzburg would be May, September, and October.

Day Trip To Nearby Salzburg Attractions

Salzburg is located close to the border between Austria and Germany, so it’s pretty easy to cross the border to the west to Germany for the best day trip from Salzburg. Consider adding a few days’ stays at Salzburg into your itinerary to fully appreciate the beauty of Austria.

Here are some recommended places for a day trip from Salzburg:

Hallstatt and the Dachstein Salzkammergut – undoubtedly one of the most picturesque towns in Austria. Take a day trip to Hallstatt to explore the “world’s most beautiful town” from Salzburg. Consider staying one or two nights at Hallstatt to visit the Hallstatt Salzwelten, one of the oldest salt mines, and Dachstein Krippenstein for its Giant Ice Cave and Five Finger.

Related Read:  Travel Postcard: Hallstatt, World Most Beautiful Lakeside Town

Berchtesgaden National Park – Germany’s only Alpine National park with tons of offers. The beautiful Berchtesgaden can be reached by an hour of bus ride from Salzburg. Admire spectacular views at Eagle’s Nest which was created as a gift for Adolf Hitler, and was well preserved from World War II. Or take a ferry boat tour to Bavaria’s deepest lake at Konigsee to see the crystal clear water and quaint Church of St Bartholoma.

Related Read: Day Trip to Berchtesgaden from Salzburg

Bavarian capital, Munich – Direct train links connect Salzburg and Munich for an incredible city with a lot of things to see, foods to eat, and beer to drink. Join the crowds of tourists at beer halls like Hofbrauhaus for a pint of beer.

Related Read: Munich itinerary: One Day in Munich Travel Guide Blog

Recommended Tour from Salzburg

For hassle-free, you can consider taking the day trip from Salzburg. There is plenty of tours that can be planned on your Salzburg itinerary.

• Eagle’s Nest in Berchtesgaden Tour from Salzburg
• Salt-Mines and Bavarian Mountains Tour from Salzburg
• Hallstatt Half-Day Tour from Salzburg

Wrap-Up: Planning on Salzburg Itinerary

With a well-planned Salzburg itinerary , it is possible to see Salzburg in one day! Places to visit in Salzburg include the world-famous Hohensalzburg Castle, Mirabell Palace, and Gardens, Mozart’s birthplace, or as simple as strolling around the Salzburg old town. For sure, it is impossible to indulge in all of them in just one day. But if you have a well-plan Salzburg itinerary, you’ll still be able to see most of the top sights and attractions on your Salzburg one-day trip.

During our trip to Salzburg, we spend one whole day in Salzburg and found there are lots of things to do and see. We join the Wasserspiele tour at Schloss Hellbrunn, enjoy a glass of fresh brew at Stiegl-Brauwelt, and visited most of the famous attractions in the old town. Unfortunately, Untersberg is close to maintenance in April. Else it will be great to put the cable car ride and Schloss Hellbrunn together as both are located in the south of Salzburg.

There are so many things to do in a 1-day Salzburg itinerary. If possible, make your Salzburg visit for two days to explore the town or nearby in more detail.

Lastly, here is some travel guide for you to plan on your trip to Salzburg:

• Best stay in Salzburg: Where To Stay in Salzburg: Best Hotel For Holiday
• What and where to eat: Salzburg Food Guide

Other Beautiful Places For Central Europe Visit

Done planning on your Salzburg itinerary? If you are interested, please continue to read about our Central Europe visit to countries and places nearby. Hopefully, our nice scene photo will inspire you to start planning on your travel journey.

How To Plan Your Central Europe Itinerary: Top 3 Must Visit Countries

• [Czech Republic] Three Perfect Days in Prague
• [Czech Republic] Day Trip to Cesky Krumlov
• [Austria] How To Visit Salzburg In One Day
• [Austria] Hallstatt, World Most Beautiful Town
• [Austria] Vienna, City Full of Art, History and Fairy Tales
• [Germany] Berchtesgaden, The Hidden Natural Gem
• [Slovakia] Bratislava: A Charming Unpolished Old Town in Slovakia
• [Hungary] How To Spend Three Full Day in Budapest

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Perfect 2 Days In Salzburg Itinerary

by Melissa Giroux | Last updated Dec 8, 2022 | Austria , Europe , Travel Tips

Salzburg is a beautiful Austrian city that sits on the border of Germany.

It is one of the prettiest cities in Europe thanks to its breathtaking backdrop of the Eastern Alps, hilly landscape, and impressive historical buildings. 

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So, how many days in Salzburg is enough? The city sees most visitors come for a weekend as you can easily fit all the highlights of Salzburg in 2 days.

Salzburg is also a cultural hub, being the birthplace of Mozart and the host of the world-class Salzburg Festival that happens every summer.

Therefore, there is always plenty to do and see, and this stunning Austrian city is well worth a visit.

To help you with your trip planning, we’ve put together this 2 days in Salzburg itinerary , including everything to see, do, and eat in Salzburg in two days.

Before we start, you should know that you can grab the Salzburg Card to make the most of your time in this beautiful city. The card gives you access to all the main sights including the fortress funicular, the panorama boat, and the cable car. As a bonus, you also get access to all the public transportation.

Grab Your Card

To start your first day in Salzburg off on the right foot, you’ll get to see famous landmarks, learn all about Mozart, try some delicious foods and even watch a show at one of the oldest marionette theatres in the world.

Morning – Hohensalzburg Fortress & Mozart’s Birthplace

Start your two days in Salzburg by visiting the two most famous landmarks of the city.

First, Hohensalzburg Fortress is a stunning 11th-century fortress that is viewable from anywhere in the old town. It sits atop Festungsburg hill.

Despite being so old, this fortress is well-maintained and offers magnificent views over the city. 

To get to the castle, you can take the Hohensalzburg Funicular up the hill. The €15.90 entry price to the fortress includes the use of the cable car.

There’s a lot to explore in the castle, including a vulture tower, various chambers, wings, courtyards, and a museum. 

Next, it’s time to check out what this city is famed for, Mozart’s Birthplace . The house where the much-loved composer grew up is now a museum that showcases his life and career.

Entry costs €12, but you will have to pay extra if you want a guided tour.

The museum has some remarkably well-preserved memorabilia, including Mozart’s first violin, buttons from his jacket, and even a lock of his hair!

Afternoon – Geteidegasse, Salzburg Cathedral & Petersfriedhof Cemetery

Mozart’s Birthplace is located on Getreidegasse , a picturesque street full of shops and restaurants.

If you’re yet to try a traditional Bosna (Austria’s take on a hot dog), grab one from the popular take-out spot, Balkan Grill .

You might have to queue here, but it’s worth the wait. The bread is crispy on the outside and fluffy in the middle, and the meat is spicy and flavorful. 

Another eatery here that you should not miss is the Confiserie Fürst chocolate shop , by world-famous chocolatier Paul Furst.

Furst is the original creator of the Mozartkugel chocolate balls. The shop is located right at the end of the street, so be sure to pick up some candy as you pass. 

Once your stomach is full, head to another of the city’s highlights, Dom Zu Salzburg (Salzburg Cathedral) .

This 17th-century baroque cathedral is a fantastic piece of architecture to enjoy, regardless of if you are religious or not. Plus, admission is free.

The last stop of the afternoon is Petersfriedhof Cemetery and Catacombs . This pretty burial site is not as dreary as it seems and is worth a visit as it is right by the cathedral.

Next to the cemetery are the intriguing catacombs, which costs €2 to enter. They are small but fascinating, and the site has a special atmosphere to it.

Evening – Salzburg Marionette Theatre

The Salzburg Marionette Theatre has been running for over 100 years, making it one of the oldest marionette theatres in the world. There is a show on most evenings, and two on every Friday.

The schedule alternates and features popular productions such as ‘The Sound of Music,’ ‘Snow White and The Seven Dwarfs,’ and ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream.’

Ticket prices range from €30 – €40, and shows start at either 5 pm or 7:30 pm.

For your second day in Salzburg, you’ll get a chance to see the green side of the city by exploring gardens and hiking to a beautiful viewpoint, and of course, a stop at a beer garden in the evening!

Morning – Mirabell Palace & Gardens

Start the second morning of your Salzburg in 2 days itinerary by visiting Mirabell Palace and Gardens . While the palace itself is beautiful, the main attraction is the gardens.

If you’re a ‘Sound of Music’ fan, you’ll surely recognize these grounds as they were one of the musical’s filming locations. 

You’ll be impressed by how well-kept and clean these gardens are, like most parts of the city. Wander around and check out the fountain, rose garden, and cutesy dwarf garden.

Both the gardens and the palace have free admission, so this is a must-visit on your Salzburg trip.

From here, walk south towards Linzergasse Square . There are plenty of great eateries here to grab an early lunch.

One of my favorites is Zum Fidelen Affen , which is slightly north of the square. This restaurant has a gorgeous patio, tasty traditional Austrian dishes, and mouth-watering desserts.

The portions are large, too, so you can refuel ready for the afternoon.

Afternoon – Basteiweig Trail & Viewpoint

After lunch, it’s time to stretch those legs and explore more of this beautiful city. Take a walk down Steingasse lane, a historic cobblestone street that is adjacent to Linzergasse Square.

The narrow street is lined with shops and restaurants. Wander to the end of this lane, and you will come to one of Salzburg’s hidden gems, Basteiweg (Stadtmauer) . 

This short and peaceful hiking trail brings you to a broad viewpoint, giving an incredible panorama of the city and caste.

Enjoy the rest of the afternoon here, taking in the peaceful vibes high up over the city. 

Evening – Augustiner Bräu (Beer Garden)

Don’t conclude your visit to Salzburg without visiting an Austrian beer garden. Augustiner bräu is undoubtedly the best beer garden in Salzburg.

Not only is the beer selection impressive and the quality high, but an evening here is always entertaining. 

Moreover, this beer hall isn’t at all touristy. You will see many locals here, making it a truly authentic experience to end your short stay.

You don’t have to sit down in the cellar either. Instead, go up the staircase, and you’ll discover a beautiful tree-covered courtyard, the perfect setting to taste a few on-site brewed beers.

Afterward, be sure to grab some food to soak up all the alcohol. Head across the street to Krimpelstätter or Bärenwirt for a killer schnitzel.

Where To Stay In Salzburg

An essential part of planning two days in Salzburg is finding a good hotel that meets your needs.

Salzburg has a wide range of accommodations for all budgets.

What’s more, as it’s a small city, any centrally-located hotel will be within walking distance to all the sights on your Salzburg itinerary.  

Best Budget Accommodation

Whether you are backpacking through Europe or you prefer to save your cash for experiences in Salzburg, YoHo International Youth Hostel is a great affordable place to stay.

The hostel is a mere 500 meters from Mirabell Palace, with six and four-bed dorms and private twin rooms. 

The dorms feature modern wood furniture, and the front desk is manned 24 hours a day. Plus, there is a small cozy bar and free WiFi throughout. Dorms start at €59 a night .

Best Mid-Range Accommodation

Hotel IMLAUER & Bräu is a traditional 4-star hotel with modern decor and furniture in all rooms.

It is conveniently located in the heart of the city center and offers a comfortable yet affordable stay for travelers. 

All rooms have private bathrooms with a bathtub and shower. They also feature air conditioning to control the temperature and soundproof windows to block out any traffic noise.

Single rooms start at €200, and double rooms are from €300. The hotel has a decent restaurant on site, too, serving both Austrian and international dishes.

Best Luxury Accommodation

If you’re looking for the best of the best, look no further than Hotel Schloss Mönchstein.

This luxury 5-star hotel is not cheap, but it is certainly something special. It is located on top of Mönchsberg hill and has an infinity pool, giving the most magnificent views of the city below.

There is also an outdoor hot tub, beautiful gardens, and a spa with a steam bath and sauna.

All the rooms at Hotel Schloss Mönchstein are  fit for a king, with antiques and marble bathrooms.

What’s more, the hotel presents its guests with a welcome drink, complimentary fruit basket, and homemade cake upon arrival.

Rooms start at €1,800, and a gourmet breakfast is included, served at the on-site Michelin star restaurant. 

Final Thoughts On Salzburg In 2 Days

When planning a trip to Austria, many travelers wonder “Is two days in Salzburg enough?”

Considering the city is only a 2.5-hour train journey from Vienna , it is an ideal weekend destination or for a short stop on any European backpacking trip.

What’s more, while Vienna is an incredible city to visit, Salzburg is one of Europe’s most beautiful and underrated cities.

Therefore, make the most of your trip to Salzburg with this in-depth itinerary.

Are you traveling to Austria soon? Read one of the following guides:

• How many days in Vienna
• Austria SIM cards
• Best places to live in Austria

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Is Salzburg expensive to visit? (Tips and Tricks to visiting in 2022)

Austria’s most expensive city to visit is Salzburg. But is Salzburg expensive or just a little more expensive than other places in Austria? Due to high rents, living in Salzburg is expensive . Salzburg is a small city; not only is it hard to find reasonably priced apartments, but hotels and hostels book up days in advance, and prices rise up to astronomical amounts in the summer.

But how much would it cost to go to Salzburg? Is Salzburg really expensive to visit?

Yes, Salzburg is expensive. But it’s only a little more expensive than Vienna and other places in Austria and not expensive compared to cities like Munich or Paris. Salzburg’s average hotel room price is €150,- per night. Prices for budget accommodation range from €80,- to €150,- depending on the season, while higher-end hotels would start at around €150,- and could reach several hundred euros. Budget hostels are available from €25,- in high season. If you were to have a meal at a restaurant in Salzburg, you would have to budget about €15,-, and a day trip, a tour, or a Salzburg Card would cost between €30,- and €60,-.

So, if you want to stay at the hotel and book a tour or eat out more frequently, you will have to budget at least €150,- a day. If you are on a budget, however, you will need at least €80,- a day for a hostel room, for food, and some sightseeing but it of course entirely depends on your style of travel.

Let’s break it down in more detail how much to spend per day in Salzburg!

Salzburg in High Season

In this article on how much to spend per day in Salzburg, we mainly discuss the cost of visiting Salzburg in the high season. That’s because in Salzburg the high-season is most of the year and the duration increases. When I began working in tourism in Salzburg, in 2012, there was still a real low season.

There were months when Salzburg seemed extinct when there were only 20 guests in the hostel with a capacity of 180 beds where I worked. Currently, the hostel is half full and we are able to conduct guided tours throughout the year. Let’s have a look at how much money for Salzburg is really needed!

The Cost of Accommodation in Salzburg

The price for accommodation in Salzburg in the high season starts at around €80,- for a hotel room for two people per night but that’s the low end and you get what you pay for. You can expect a pension in a not-so-central location at that price.

If you would like to pay less for accommodation in Salzburg, you should plan ahead and book your hotel at least two weeks ahead of time . Many affordable accommodation options are booked well in advance, and the few remaining rooms are often priced according to demand.

The cost of a minimum of a four-star hotel in a central location starts at around €150,- and the sky is the limit when it comes to luxury accommodation in Salzburg. The hotel Sacher for example, one of only two five-star superior hotels in Salzburg charges several thousand euros for a night at one of the suits during festival season.

Hostels like the Yoho International Youth hostel, which I worked for for years, or big chains like the Meininger or the A&O Hostel are available but at least in July and August, they are fully booked a few days in advance and sometimes raise the prices to €30,- to €40,- for a bed in a dormitory. That is again in high season. In the low season when they are not fully booked you can also make a bargain of prices from €12-€20,- for the cheapest beds.

The most expensive months to visit Salzburg are July and August, partly also because of the Salzburg Festival . The Salzburg Festival starts in the middle of July. The day the festival starts, Salzburg becomes much more crowded for the six weeks it lasts. 

The Cost of Food in Salzburg

How much does it cost to eat in Salzburg? Other than the cost of accommodation in Salzburg, the cost of food in Salzburg is moderate. That’s a fact I personally love and that makes me proud of my hometown Salzburg. There are no tourist traps and no places with seriously low-quality food. Most of the restaurants tourists would go to, are also frequented by locals.

Prices for a meal at a restaurant start at €12,- and range up to €25,- including drinks. While the prices in the restaurants are always within reason, on the other hand, there are no restaurants where you can make a bargain. For some recommendations on Austrian restaurants in Salzburg, please refer to this list by the Free Walking Tour Salzburg .

How much money for Salzburg’s Public Transport

Except if you stay in a budget hotel in a not-so-central location or arrive by Flixbus or by plane, you will not need public transport in Salzburg. The old town is small and walkable. If you do need public transport for some reason, you should first figure out if a Salzburg Card is worth it for your sightseeing in Salzburg since the Salzburg Card includes public transport in the city center.

Other than in the city, you might need public transport to take a day trip from Salzburg but public transport to day trip destinations like Hallstatt, Bad Ischl, Berchtesgaden, or the Ice Caves in Werfen is not included either in the Salzburg Card or in the day tickets for the city buses. These bus tickets for day trips cost anywhere from €11,- to get to Berchtesgaden from Salzburg to €30,- to get to Hallstatt from Salzburg .

How much to visit Salzburg on Day Trips and Tours

While tours add extra comfort and save you time planning, public transport in the surroundings of Salzburg is efficient. Most popular day trip destinations can be reached by bus or train without a problem.

Prices for public transport to day-trip destinations range from about €11,- to about €30,-. However, on most day trips you will also have to pay an entrance fee, such as for the salt mine in Hallstatt or for additional transportation, such as the boat at Lake Königssee or the shuttle bus to the Eagle’s Nest. Day Trips therefore can cost up to €80,- depending on what exactly you are up to.

More on how to save money on day trips in the budgeting section below.

If you would like to take an organized tour for one of the day trip destinations, it costs you between €50,- and €75,-. Panorama Tours, for example, offers the Original Sound of Music tour for €50,- while a tour to the Eagles Nest costs you €75,- due to the shuttle cost to reach the top of the mountain.

Salzburg in Low Season

The low seasons in Salzburg are short. The cheapest months to travel to Salzburg are November and February but the real low season only ranges from October-November and from the second week of January to the beginning of April. The high season starts in April with Easter and ends in September with Rupertikirtag, the traditional fairground festival.

How much to spend per day in Salzburg in the low season changes because the price of accommodation changes according to the season. However, that change of the cost of accommodation in Salzburg can result in double the cost of accommodation. 

How to save money when visiting Salzburg?

Salzburg on a budget: things to do in salzburg for free.

Salzburg has a lot of things that are worth paying for, but it also has plenty of free things to do. If you are on a budget and don’t want to spend any money at all you won’t be bored either. Here are just a few examples of things to do in Salzburg for free:

• Mirabell Palace & Mirabell garden doesn’t require an entrance fee. While there is not much to see inside the palace except for the Marble Hall, Mirabell garden harbors a few secrets which you can find out about in this article .
• In addition to offering free hiking opportunities, Salzburg’s city mountains (Mönchsberg, Kapuzinerberg, Gaisberg) offer stunning views of the old town, especially from Mönchsberg. You can read about all the hikes in Salzburg in this article on the Free Walking Tour Blog .
• If you would like to explore the surroundings of Salzburg you could also walk to Hellbrunn palace, to Leopoldskron palace or to lesser-known places like Maria Plain. These places are between half an hour and an hour walking from the city.
• Siemens Festspielleinwand, the public viewing of the festival, is a free alternative to the expensive tickets during the festival season in July and August.
• Hangar 7 is the private airplane, helicopter, and racing car collection of the Red Bull founder Dietrich Mateschitz. His collection is located in an architecturally fascinating building near the airport and is open to the public for free.

All-In on Sightseeing: Get a Salzburg Card

We wrote several articles about the Salzburg Card because it’s such a great deal. The Salzburg Card allows you to visit all the paid attractions in Salzburg for a fixed price. That could save you between €100,- and €200,-, if you want to go all-in on sightseeing in Salzburg. For a detailed breakdown, read this article .

If you get the Salzburg Card, make sure to also read this article on how to make the most of your Salzburg Card and this article, if you would like to know what sights are included in the Salzburg Card .

Low-Cost Overview: Take a Free Walking Tour

Disclaimer: I am biased. I founded the Free Walking Tour in Salzburg . But when I travel Free Walking Tours would also be my go-to activities in a new city. The Free Walking Tour is on a “pay-what-you-want” basis meaning you decide at the end of the tour how much you want to pay for the 1,5-2 hour tour.

Because Salzburg is small, during the tour you pass by and hear about the most important sights. That doesn’t only save you money but also saves time researching.

How to save money on Day Trips from Salzburg

One of the best things to do in Salzburg is to explore the surroundings on a day trip. Most day trips require a tour or public transport. The cost for a day trip depends on the distance you travel on those public buses or trains. It for example costs €30,- to get to Hallstatt and back from Salzburg by public transport but it also takes 3 hours one way while Berchtesgaden in Bavaria costs €11,- for a round trip but also only takes 1 hour one way.

But while in Hallstatt the village is the main attraction you would have to spend extra money on the shuttle bus to the Eagle’s nest or the boat across Königssee to make the most of a visit to Berchtesgaden. The way to save money on a day trip to Berchtesgaden for example would be to hike the Eagles Nest instead of paying the overpriced shuttle bus to the top. Hiking is generally a great way way to explore the surroundings of Salzburg.

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 Your official travel guide to Salzburg

Salzburg Festival

UNESCO World Heritage

The Sound of Music

Wolfgang A. Mozart

Advent & Silent Night

More salzburg.

Top 10 Tips for each month

48 hours in Salzburg

Salzburg City Walks - off the beaten tracks

Salzburg for Families

City of Churches

Creative Salzburg

Beer Culture

Plan your visit.

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Salzburg travel blog — the fullest salzburg travel guide for first-timers.

Salzburg is a beautiful, vibrant city, a Unesco World Heritage Site with an astonishingly rich cultural heritage. It is also a great place to wander and absorb the history that marks it out from other Austrian cities etched with typical Habsburg style and their distinct atmosphere. The harmonious interplay of landscape and architecture, art and culture, as well as traditional and modern, all within a surprisingly small area, merely adds to the special charm of this place.

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• Visiting Dachstein Salzkammergut to climbing Dachstein mountains

So, is Salzburg worth visiting, how to visit Salzburg, what to do in Salzburg and how to plan a budget trip to Salzburg for the first-time perfectly? Let’s check out our Salzburg travel blog (Salzburg blog) with the fullest Salzburg travel guide (Salzburg tourist guide, Salzburg city guide, Salzburg guide) from how to get to Salzburg, best places to visit, best time to come, what to eat as well as top things to do in Salzburg to help you maximize your trip as follows!

To experience at a relaxed, leisurely pace what to do and where to go in Salzburg in Austria, let’s find out through this guidepost to be useful on your journey!

Overview of Salzburg (# salzburg travel blog)

To know what a wonderful city of Salzburg is, let’s explore its highlights from history, the arts, culture, and nature, that interest you Salzburg involves these things.

Cultural Heritage

This old city on the Salzach River looks back on a long history as a metropolis of the arts and culture. The cultural heritage of this city shaped by the Baroque has its origins in a vibrant exchange with its southern neighbors, especially Italy.

It contains beautiful classical architecture, classical streets and squares, and famous structures such as Hohensalzburg Fortress, the emblem of this city, and Salzburg Cathedral. The left bank of the Salzach is also famous for the Getreidegasse, you will discover the house where Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was born, creating a city having much of its identity as a metropolis of music and the arts.

Stunning Vistas of Salzburg (# salzburg travel blog)

Salzburg is a city of unparalleled beauty, surrounded by the famous Alps. This enchanting city offers plenty of opportunities to admire its elegant buildings; graceful domes; photographic mountains and Salzach River; and majestic countryside from a range of known and unknown lookout points and vistas.

Music and art (# salzburg travel guide)

Salzburg is home to the annual Mozart Festival, which attracts and features musicians and classical dramatic artists at the top of their professions. You can attend musical performances practically every night of the year at concert halls and theatres like the Salzburg Landestheater.

Salzburg enchants visitors with pure, unadulterated nature. It is immersed in colorful flower gardens, and green parks everywhere. You will get a sense of just how green Salzburg is the very first moment you set eyes on it. The tradition of landscape gardening is deeply rooted in Salzburg. Therefore, outdoor activities including bicycling, and walking shall be beloved by many visitors.

Salzburg is close to the border with Germany, spends only two hours from Munich and one hour from Vienna by train, and also has convenient domestic and international flights. This makes Salzburg an ideal destination to visit or combine with other European destinations.

When to visit Salzburg? (# salzburg travel guide)

The high seasons to visit Salzburg are in spring from April to June and fall from September to October. If you like warm days and sunshine, the summer high season is the best time to head to Salzburg. With blue skies, and temperatures hovering around 15 and 25 degrees Celsius, the surrounding hills are ripe for walking.

The spring weather is often changeable, with sunny days mixed with cloudy and rainy days, so it’s a good idea to bring a range of clothing. This is also a beautiful time to visit, as the city’s parks and gardens come to life with blooming flowers and green foliage. Especially noteworthy and Instagramable are the Magnolia trees on Makartplatz Square. You can participate in outdoor activities such as walking, and cycling, and visit popular attractions such as Mirabell and Hellbrunn Palaces.

In the fall, the city’s parks and gardens are ablaze with autumn colors, and the surrounding hills and mountains are blanketed in red, yellow, and orange foliage. The fall weather in Salzburg can be pleasant during the day, but temperatures can drop significantly in the evenings, making it important to pack warm clothing. You can participate in festivals, like the Mozart Festival and the Red Bull Foliage.

However, if you like winter air and don’t mind the cold, you can also visit Salzburg during the winter to enjoy the snow-covered landscape and participate in activities like skiing or enjoy indoor attractions such as museums, galleries, and historical sites, as well as Christmas markets in December.

How to get to Salzburg from cities in Austria and Europe? (# salzburg blog)

The usual route is to travel between Vienna, Salzburg, and Hallstatt within Austria, in addition, there is a small valley at the foot of the mountain, Innsbruck. You can refer to a detailed article on traveling between Vienna, Salzburg, and Hallstatt here. Alternatively to get to Salzburg from cities in Europe by various means of transport as follows:

By plane: Salzburg has an international airport W.A. Mozart (Salzburg Airport), hence you can fly directly from major cities like Vienna, Munich, Frankfurt, Zurich, and Amsterdam. From the airport, you can travel to the city center by taxi, bus, or shuttle.

By train: The Salzburg Main Train station (Hauptbahnhof) is a 20-minute walk from Altstadt or the old city. Salzburg is at the intersection between Munich and Vienna as well as destinations in the Czech Republic, Italy, Slovenia, and Switzerland. Munich (about 1.5—2 hours) and Vienna (about 2—3 hours) are the most frequented destinations with Munich even closer to Salzburg than the Austrian capital Vienna. Express train lines are also available from major cities.

By car: If you drive or rent a car, you can travel to Salzburg by road. Salzburg has national highways and highways interconnecting to nearby cities such as Munich, Vienna, and Innsbruck. However, be aware of applicable traffic regulations and fees to cross borders and on highways.

How to get from Salzburg airport to the city center? (# salzburg travel guide)

From Salzburg airport, there are several public buses that you can use to get from the airport into downtown Salzburg. Bus 10 to get to the Salzburg Rathaus (old town) from the airport takes you every 10 minutes. The most popular bus route is line 2 with the following details:

• Departure point: Salzburg Airport (Terminal 1)
• Destination: Salzburg Hbf Bus Stop—Salzburg City Center
• Schedule: Line 2 is from early morning to late night and has a frequency of about 10-20 minutes during the day. The route travels through several central stops and ends at the Salzburg Hbf bus stop (central train station).
• Trip time: The trip time from the airport to the city center is about 20-30 minutes, depending on the traffic.

How to get around Salzburg by public transport? (# salzburg travel guide)

The public transport system of Salzburg runs primarily on buses, trains, and trams acting as fillers. The same ticket can be used for traveling across the integrated travel network of Salzburg. Study the Salzburg city zone carefully, it extends to the Austria-Germany border.

Types of public transport tickets in Salzburg

The 24—hour ticket to the center of Salzburg costs €6.40 when you bought directly from the bus driver, which is €6.40. You can buy tickets in advance for less than €4.20 from vending machines or via the phone app. The saving tip is that you should buy a 24—hour ticket compared to a single 5—ticket for €9.50. Both the 24—hour ticket, the single ticket, and a 1—hour ticket (only available on the machines or in the app) are much cheaper when pre-purchased.

If you take a single ride in the center of Salzburg, it’s expensive because distances are short and there is a minimum charge. If you take a 2—minute ride, for example, you would pay €2,90 while you pay the same for the 20—minute bus ride to the airport.

One-hour tickets cost €2. These prices are only for the Central Zone i.e. Salzburg City and airport. These tickets can also be brought on regional trains. These tickets can be used on Buses, Obuses, and regional trains.

If you are going to explore Salzburg exhaustively and are going into two or more regions, then buy the two-region combined ticket for a week (priced at €29). This will allow the use of public transport networks in Salzburg Central and one adjacent zone for a week. If you want to cross borders and go to upper Austria or Berchtesgaden land, then buy a cross—border ticket for €4.

Salzburg Pass–Salzburg Card (# salzburg guide)

Though most of Salzburg is very walkable, some attractions like the Schloss Leopoldskron, Schloss Hellbrunn, Salzburg Zoo, and Untersberg Mountain are outside the city center and you should buy a travel card.

The card is of great value as it offers free admission to 30 attractions and discounts on events and concerts as well as access to certain tours. Free use (subject to conditions) of the cable car to the Hohensalzburg fortress, the funicular on Untersberg Mountain, the ski lift to Mönchsberg Mountain, and the river tram.

When you buy the card, you will get a guidebook/brochure with a list of attractions and a map of the bus lines that you can use. The card can be brought in 24/36//72 hours. Ideally, buy the 72—hour card as it’s impossible to see all sights connected with the card in less than 72 hours.

What to eat in Salzburg? (# salzburg guide)

You will see that the oldest cooking methods are still alive here and are practiced with greater ease in making some of the most influential dishes. You will also find some blissful amalgamation of different cuisines from various countries in Salzburg. the best food mentioned in Salzburg must be tried as follows:

Schnitzel: One of the best-known dishes of Austrian cuisine, the Wiener schnitzel is a thinner, breaded, and pan-fried veal cutlet that is traditionally served with a dollop of lingonberry jam, lemon wedges, and either buttered parsley potatoes, a simple potato salad, or French fries. Pork is often used instead of veal because it’s more available and cheaper.

Knödel: Which we would translate into dumplings, is a popular and versatile dish in Austria and throughout central and Eastern Europe. They are made from a mixture of flour, eggs, and milk, and can be either sweet or savory, depending on the filling and seasoning used. Knödel can be a side dish, but there are also main courses made of Knödel.

Nockerl: A traditional dessert of Salzburg. The dessert is made up of three large meringue mountains, typically served with raspberry jam and sometimes with sweet vanilla sauce. The three mountains are supposed to resemble the famous Salzburg city, the mountain of Mönchsberg, Kapuzinerberg, and Gaisberg. And just like a light dusting of snow on a mountain, these dumplings are added with powdered sugar before being served.

Salzburger Bier: Beer has been brewed in Salzburg for more than 600 years: out of a love for indulgence and with an attentive eye to quality and purity. The result is an array of tradition-rich beers and breweries with a long history. Salzburg has many famous breweries and you can enjoy local beers such as the Stiegl-Brauerei goes back to the year 1492 and is now Austria’s biggest private brewery, while Augustiner Bräu Kloster Mülln has been producing beer since 1621.

Mozartkugel: A traditional chocolate candy named after the composer Mozart, who originated in Salzburg. Mozartkugel has been made of marzipan and pistachio core wrapped in nougat and dipped in dark chocolate quickly became the most popular sweet in the city.

Where to stay in Salzburg?

Salzburg has a wide selection of places to stay, from luxury hotels to family guest houses and rental apartments. Here are some popular areas to stay in Salzburg.

Salzburg Old Town (Altstadt): The Old Town of Salzburg is home to many stunning historic sites and monuments, each provides a unique insight into the rich history and culture of this beautiful city, and it is worth a visit. Moreover, it is easy for you to access a lot of sightseeing, restaurants, and shops. There are many luxury hotels and nice cottages in this area.

Mirabell Palace and Gardens: The area offers convenient accommodation options and is close to major city attractions.

Nonntal: The Nonntal area is located south of the old town of Salzburg city and is known for its beautiful views and quiet surroundings. This is a good choice if you want to enjoy a natural and peaceful space.

Below we recommend more best budget, mid-range and upscale hotels with good ratings and reviews you can refer to.

• H+ Hotel Salzburg ( Agoda , Booking )
• Hotel & Villa Auersperg Salzburg ( Agoda , Booking )
• Altstadt Hotel Hofwirt Salzburg ( Agoda , Booking )
• arte Hotel Salzburg ( Agoda , Booking )
• MEININGER Hotel Salzburg City Center ( Agoda , Booking )
• Wyndham Grand Salzburg Conference Centre ( Agoda , Booking )
• Radisson Blu Hotel Altstadt, Salzburg ( Agoda , Booking )
• Hotel Elefant Family Business ( Agoda , Booking )
• NH Collection Salzburg City ( Agoda , Booking )
• Hotel Turnerwirt ( Agoda , Booking )

Check out more top and best hotels in Salzburg on Agoda.com or Booking.com

Where to visit in Salzburg?

Salzburg is one of Europe’s most beautiful cities. Located in the northwest of Austria, it’s as popular among tourists for its well-preserved historical architecture as it is for its magnificent Alpine setting. Find out all the best places to visit while on vacation in this beautiful corner of Austria with our list of the best things to do in Salzburg.

Hohensalzburg Fortress

Hohensalzburg Fortress is one of the largest and best-preserved fortresses in Europe. It is located high on Festungsberg Hill, high above the rooftops of the Baroque historical district. The biggest fully preserved castle in Central Europe, this emblem of Salzburg offers a 360-degree view of the city and its surroundings.

Salzburg’s old city center is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The best way to experience the historic old town is to simply walk around and see everything, even if you do not miss the highlight attractions such as the Salzburg Cathedral and the Salzburg Landestheater.

Mirabell Palace

One of Salzburg’s many unmissable tourist attractions is the magical Mirabell Palace and its gorgeous gardens. The panoramic views are some of the finest in Europe and were featured in some of the most famous scenes of the film “The Sound of Music” with the iconic sightseeing such as Pegasus Fountain and the clump of trees.

Mirabell Park (Mirabell Gardens)

Nearby Mirabell Palace, Mirabell Park is designed in a geometric Baroque style, they are so beautiful, especially in warmer months when all the flowers are blooming. The Gardens are a beautiful stretch of flowers and sculptures, where you can just sit down for a while to admire everything it has to offer. This is also the place used in wildly famous for being a part of the Sound of Music.

Salzburg Cathedral

Salzburg Cathedral, or Salzburger Dom, is one of the most beautiful cathedrals in Central Europe and has an interesting story behind it. You can enjoy Baroque architecture and see the famous painting “Maria Immaculada” by Michelangelo Grigoletti.

Hellbrunn Palace (Schloss Hellbrunn)

Hellbrunn Palace is a Baroque mansion located on the outskirts of Salzburg. The Italianate villa became a beloved retreat for the rulers of the state, who flocked here to eat, drink and make merry. It was a Garden of Eden to all who beheld its exotic fauna, and citrus trees. Hellbrunn Palace with the Trick Fountains is famous for spraying water on visitors. Therefore, they should wear clothes that dry quickly.

Mozart’s Birthplace

Mozart’s Birthplace is located in the house, being is the bright yellow building at Getreidegasse 9, where the composer Mozart was born and raised. You can explore Mozart’s life and work through artifacts, documents, and multimedia displays.

Salzach River

The Salzach River provides the perfect backdrop and a home base for your trip to Salzburg. The river is beautiful in its own right and provides easy access to the city.

Since it goes right down the middle of Salzburg, you’ll be able to get exactly where you want to go in no time with easy access to walking and bicycle tours as well. The Salzach itself is a gorgeous scene. With the backdrop of Salzburg’s Baroque architecture in the background, the river is well-lit with neat grassy banks.

Home to some of the world’s most beautiful natural landscapes, Austria has much to offer the adventurous traveler. Dive into its culture-rich cities, innovative culinary character, and variety. This guide is to the very best of Salzburg for first-timers. Whatever your passion, whether it be spectacular scenery, history, architecture, or music, you will find it all in this captivating Austrian city.

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Salzburg you can refer to

• Salzburg Card
• Salzburg Day Tour from Vienna
• Hallstatt Day Tour from Salzburg
• Eurail Pass for Austria (Mobile Pass)
• 4G WiFi for Europe from Uroaming (HK Airport Pick Up)
• 4G SIM Card for Europe from Xplori (SG Delivery)

Read more Austria guide here .

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12 Best Things To Do In Salzburg, Austria

Welcome to Salzburg, the charming city that blends history, culture, and natural wonders. Get ready for a journey through the best things to do in Salzburg, where every corner tells a story and every experience is a memory waiting to happen. From its picturesque Old Town to the majestic Alps, Salzburg offers a diverse range of activities for every type of traveler. So pack your bags, put on your walking shoes, and get ready to explore this beautiful Austrian city together.

Table of Contents

How to Get to Salzburg

Before we dive into the top things to do in Salzburg, let’s first talk about how to get there. The easiest way is by flying into the Salzburg Airport, which offers direct flights from major European cities such as London, Paris , and Rome. From the airport, you can take a taxi, rent a car, or use the efficient public transportation system to reach your accommodation.

If you’re traveling from within Austria or neighboring countries looking for  one day in Salzburg , taking a train to Salzburg Train Station is also a great option.  The train station is conveniently located in the city center, making it easy to reach your hotel or Airbnb.

Where to Stay in Salzburg

Hotels in Salzburg range from historical palaces to modern boutique-style accommodations. Many of these hotels are located in the city center, making it a convenient location for exploring all that Salzburg has to offer. If you prefer a more intimate and local experience, consider booking an Airbnb or homestay in one of Salzburg’s charming residential neighborhoods.

Alternatively, if you’re on a budget or looking for a unique experience, there are several hostels and guesthouses available in Salzburg. These options cater to backpackers and budget travelers , providing affordable yet comfortable accommodations.

No matter where you choose to stay in Salzburg, be sure to book your accommodation well in advance as it can get crowded during peak tourist season. And don’t forget to check the location and accessibility before making your final decision.

12 Best Things To Do In Salzburg

1. take a stroll through the salzburg old town.

No trip to Salzburg is complete without a leisurely walk through the enchanting Old Town. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a historical marvel with its narrow cobblestone streets, charming shops and cafes, and stunning baroque architecture.

2. Visit Mirabell Palace and Gardens

Take a break from the bustling city center and head over to Mirabell Palace and Gardens. This beautifully designed palace and its accompanying gardens are a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. Don’t miss the iconic Pegasus Fountain and flower beds in full bloom during the spring and summer months.

3. Tour the Hohensalzburg Fortress

Perched atop a hill overlooking the city, the Hohensalzburg Fortress is an impressive sight to behold. Take a tour of this medieval castle and learn about its rich history dating back to 1077. Don’t forget to take in the breathtaking views of Salzburg from the top.

4. Visit Mozart’s Birthplace

For music lovers, no trip to Salzburg is complete without visiting Mozart’s birthplace. This museum offers an insight into the life and works of one of the world’s greatest composers. You can even see some of his original manuscripts on display.

5. Admire the views from Kapuzinerberg

For panoramic views of Salzburg, head up to Kapuzinerberg. This hill is located just behind the old town and offers stunning views of the city below. Take a leisurely walk up the hill or hop on the funicular railway for an easier ascent.

6. Indulge in Salzburg’s Culinary Scene

No trip to Salzburg would be complete without trying some of its delicious cuisine. From traditional schnitzel to famous Austrian desserts like strudel and sachertorte, there is something for everyone’s taste buds. Make sure to also try some local beer or wine for a truly authentic Salzburg experience. Mozartkugels, a chocolate and marzipan treat named after the famous composer Wolfgang Mozart, also make for a great souvenir to take home.

7. Take a Day Trip to Hallstatt

Located just an hour away from Salzburg, Hallstatt is a picturesque Austrian village known for its breathtaking mountain views and charming architecture. Spend the day exploring this scenic town and don’t forget to take a boat ride on Lake Hallstatt. It’s the perfect escape from the bustling city and a great opportunity to immerse yourself in Austria’s natural beauty.

8. Sound of Music Tour

Fans of the classic movie “The Sound of Music” will not want to miss out on this tour. Visit famous filming locations such as Mirabell Palace and Gardens, Nonnberg Abbey, and the iconic Leopoldskron Palace. You’ll also get to sing along to all your favorite songs from the movie while touring the beautiful city of Salzburg.

9. Hellbrunn Palace and Trick Fountains

This 17th-century palace is a must-see stop in Salzburg. Not only does it boast stunning Baroque architecture, but it also has entertaining trick fountains that spray unsuspecting visitors. Take a guided tour of the palace and gardens to learn about its history and enjoy the surprise of the trick fountains. This is also a great place for families with kids, as they will surely be entertained by the playful water features.

10. Salzburg Museum

For those interested in learning more about the history and culture of Salzburg, a visit to the Salzburg Museum is a must. With over 2,000 years of history on display, this museum showcases the city’s past through exhibits on art, music, and daily life.

11. Red Bull Hangar-7

For something a little more modern and unique, head to Red Bull Hangar-7. This futuristic building is home to an impressive collection of aircraft and race cars owned by the Red Bull company. You can also grab a drink or bite to eat at the restaurant and bar inside.

12. St. Peter’s Abbey and Cemetery

Founded in 696 AD, St. Peter’s Abbey is one of Salzburg’s oldest monasteries. Explore the beautiful church and its crypt, as well as the abbey’s library with over 800 years of history preserved within its walls. Adjacent to the abbey is St. Peter’s Cemetery, which is known for its unique burial customs and beautiful Baroque tombs.

FAQs about Salzburg, Austria

1. what is the best time to visit salzburg.

The best time to visit Salzburg is during the summer months (June-August) when the weather is pleasant and there are many outdoor activities and festivals to enjoy. However, if you prefer a quieter, less crowded experience, consider visiting in the shoulder seasons of spring (March-May) or fall (September-November).

2. Is Salzburg expensive?

Like most popular tourist destinations in Europe , Salzburg can be quite expensive. Accommodation, food, and attractions tend to be on the pricier side. However, there are plenty of budget-friendly options available such as hostels and local eateries.

3. How do I get around in Salzburg?

Salzburg has a great public transportation system, including buses and trains, making it easy to get around the city. You can also explore Salzburg on foot or by renting a bike. Another popular option is taking a guided walking tour to discover hidden gems and learn about the city’s history and culture.

4. What are some must-see attractions in Salzburg?

Salzburg is known for its stunning architecture, especially the baroque-style buildings in the Old Town. Some must-see landmarks include Mirabell Palace and Gardens, Hohensalzburg Fortress, and Mozart’s birthplace.

5. Are there any events or festivals in Salzburg?

Yes, Salzburg hosts several events and festivals throughout the year. The most well-known is the Salzburg Festival, a five-week celebration of music, theater, and opera that takes place in July and August. Other popular events include the Christmas markets in December and Easter celebrations in the spring.

6. Is Salzburg a good day trip?

Absolutely! If you’re in  Munich  or Vienna, Salzburg is a go-to destination for a day trip. It’s a mere two-hour train ride from Munich or around two and a half hours from Vienna.

Final Thoughts On The Best Things To Do In Salzburg, Austria

From its rich history and stunning architecture to its vibrant cultural scene and natural beauty, Salzburg truly has something for everyone. Whether you’re a fan of Mozart or simply looking for a charming European escape, this city is sure to stun you with its charm, elegance, and warm hospitality. So why wait? Start planning your trip to Salzburg today and experience all the best things this beautiful city has to offer!

Author Bio: Hey there! We’re Dylan and Maddy from Zutell Travels , a travel-loving couple from Buffalo, NY, always on the lookout for new adventures. When we’re not exploring, we’re hanging out with our pups, Cali and Winston, or indulging our Harry Potter obsession. Join us on our journey as we share stories from the road and inspire others to embark on their own adventures.

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• Salzburg attractions
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• Salzburg travel guide
• Sound of Music Tour

Sumit Sharma

Sumit is a firm believer in the saying, "Let's be a traveler and not a tourist." He believes that a tourist is someone who wants to experience another culture in a superficial way, while a traveler is someone who wants to immerse themselves in the culture and experience it as authentically as possible. Sumit is currently based in India, but he hopes to travel to every corner of the world one day. You can find him on Instagram and Twitter at @digitalsumit

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I have a passion for travelling and love to experience new places and culture. I am from India and visited over 35+ cities in India so far, and can’t wait to see  the whole world untill I go to next.

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Salzburger Dult 2024 | Salzburg Messezentrum

The Salzburger Dult 2024 is a remarkable event that brings together the best of amusement parks, market events, and food stalls. This extraordinary gathering goes beyond mere geographic boundaries, offering a unique experience for visitors from all corners of the world. Taking place at the prestigious Salzburg Messezentrum, located at Am Messezentrum 1, 5020 Salzburg, Austria, this event promises to be a captivating celebration of life. During the Salzburger Dult 2024, attendees can expect an array of exciting attractions. Live music will fill the air, creating a vibrant and energetic atmosphere. Folklore clubs will showcase their talents, immersing visitors in the rich cultural heritage of Salzburg. Captivating show performances will dazzle audiences, providing unforgettable moments of entertainment. This gathering transcends generations, serving as a meeting place for people from all walks of life. It is an opportunity for individuals to come together and indulge in life's pleasures as one. The Salzburger Dult 2024 invites you to join this remarkable event, where memories are made and cherished. Mark your calendars for the dates of May 18th to May 26th, 2024, and prepare to be part of an unforgettable experience. Experience the magic of Salzburg at the Salzburger Dult 2024.

Provided by AnnabelleDanis | Published Apr 9, 2024

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A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Salzburg vs. Nuremberg for Attractions, Old Town, Couples, and Food

• Pros & Cons
• Attractions
• Backpackers
• Public Transit
• Walkability
• More time in Salzburg or Nuremberg?
• Which is Cheaper, Salzburg or Nuremberg? (Travel Cost Comparison)

Which is Bigger, Salzburg or Nuremberg?

• When to Visit Salzburg or Nuremberg?

Should you visit Salzburg or Nuremberg?

Which is cheaper to visit which is more expensive for vacation.

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Salzburg or Nuremberg, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Salzburg is a historic, beautiful, and musical city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the nightlife, live music, and food.

Nuremberg is a historic, fascinating, and charming city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Salzburg and Nuremberg: Pros and Cons

• Popular museums and historical sights
• Active nightlife
• Good music scene
• Family-friendly
• Good for couples and romance
• Good for backpackers and budget travelers
• Impressive beauty
• Quaint atmosphere

Is there more to do in Salzburg or Nuremberg?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Salzburg than Nuremberg. While Nuremberg is larger than Salzburg, Salzburg has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Salzburg is more popular for its food, music, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Nuremberg is known for its museums and nightlife. Salzburg is more touristy than Nuremberg and is known for its elegant breakfasts, its classical music scene, and its role in the Sound of Music. It is also home to The Salzburg Old Town. Nuremberg is popular for its quaint old town, beautiful architecture, and festive Christmas markets.

How is Salzburg different from Nuremberg?

Which is better for a holiday.

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Nuremberg and Salzburg. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Salzburg or Nuremberg?

Nuremberg is terrific for its sights and museums. Also, Salzburg is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Nuremberg on the map. It's well established on the tourist circuit and it's easy to see why. The history and charm, combined with interesting sights make it a top place to visit in Germany. Make sure you check out Kaiserburg, the Nuremberg Trials Memorial, and Germanisches National Museum.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Salzburg. There are many historic sights to explore including Mozart's birthplace, the Mozart Residence, the Salzburg Museum, and the many stunning churches and concert halls.

Is the Food Better in Salzburg or Nuremberg? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Salzburg is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Nuremberg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Salzburg . The old town is filled with charming restaurants that serve local specialties including schnitzel, tafelspitz, and strudel. The city is also known for it's impressive breakfast spread that is often served on a three tiered cake stand and includes cheeses, salami, fresh fruit, pastries, olives, jams and more.

Nuremberg is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The city is heavily influenced by Franconian cuisines and you'll find many sausages and lots of meat in the restaurants. In addition to Nuremberg sausage, you should definitely try the bretzel, leberkäsweggla (a meat and grain snack), and schäuferle (pig's shoulder meat).

Is Salzburg or Nuremberg Better for Nightlife?

Nuremberg is a well-known place for its evening party scene. Also, Salzburg is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife.

Nuremberg offers plenty to do in the evening. The nightlife scene is diverse with clubs, bars, live music venues, and a number of festivals held in town. It's possible to have a relaxing night with a beer in a beer garden or a more lively evening at one of the many clubs around town.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Salzburg. The city has a number of trendy bars, pubs, and clubs where you can enjoy music and a lively atmosphere.

Is Salzburg or Nuremberg Better for Music?

Salzburg is a world-class destination for its live music scene. However, Nuremberg is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Salzburg Although most people think of Mozart and the Sound of Music when they think of this city, there are also many music festivals, including the famous Salzburg Music Festival, as well as concert venues and an independent music scene that is excellent.

Nuremberg is not a live music destination.

Is Salzburg or Nuremberg Better for its Old Town?

Salzburg and Nuremberg both have first-rate historical old towns that attract visitors.

Salzburg has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. This beautiful old town is filled with cafes, restaurants, and churches. You can enjoy local music performed by street performers as you soak in the atmosphere and the regular chime of the church bells really gives the city personality. There are also frequent markets and shops to explore.

The old town of Nuremberg is one of the most recognized in the world. The city's old town is filled with charm and it's easy to explore on foot. It's also large enough that you'll leave wishing you had more time to see it all.

Is the Shopping Better in Salzburg or Nuremberg?

Salzburg is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Nuremberg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Salzburg make it a world-class shopping destination. The city's historic heart is filled with boutique shops, chocolate markets, and charming local vendors. It's fun to peruse the many shops that line the streets while you shop for local souvenirs.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Nuremberg. In addition to its iconic Christmas markets, you'll find year round shopping areas, pedestrian shopping streets, and large shopping malls. Some of the best places to shop include Lorenzer Altstadt, Hauptmarkt, and Königstorpassage.

Is Salzburg or Nuremberg Better for Families?

Salzburg and Nuremberg are both high quality destinations for the whole family.

Salzburg is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids who know the Sound of Music will enjoy visiting the setting of a number of scenes from the movie. There are even popular Sound of Music tours that take you to the gardens where they sang "Do Re Mi" and out of town to the church where Maria married the Captain. The city also offers Marionette Puppet shows, cooking classes, castles and more around town that everyone can enjoy.

Nuremberg is a very family-friendly destination. The town has a nice zoo and several museums that are great for kids like the DB Railway Museum, the Toy Museum, and the Nicolaus Copernicus Planetarium. Also make sure you visit the Imperial Castle which is a highlight of a trip to Nuremberg for kids and adults alike.

Is Salzburg or Nuremberg Better for Couples?

Salzburg is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Nuremberg is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Salzburg is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. The town offers a romantic setting with elaborate breakfasts, beautiful architecture, live shows, and plenty that couples can enjoy. You can simply wander around old town or explore the many gardens around town. Couples will also enjoy the concerts and music that the city is so famous for.

Nuremberg is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. It has history, beauty, charm, and personality. You'll find many romantic spots to walk hand in hand or enjoy a delicious meal in a cozy setting.

Is Salzburg or Nuremberg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Salzburg and Nuremberg are high quality destinations for backpackers.

Salzburg is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. This is a popular city to visit, so there are plenty of amenities for backpackers. If you want to save a little money, you can stay and eat outside of old town where the prices are a little less.

Nuremberg is very popular with the backpacker crowd. It's a favorite city of many travelers to Germany and backpackers are no exception. There are enough hostels to keep prices in check and wandering the old town is a free and rewarding experience.

Is Salzburg or Nuremberg Better for Students?

Salzburg is a world-class destination for students. Also, Nuremberg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Salzburg is a very popular city for students. International students appreciate the high quality of life, excellent educational opportunities and unique European setting that makes this city special. There are also a number of beautiful places just outside of town that you can explore, as well as many travel connections to other popular cities in Europe.

Many students visit Nuremberg. It's a reasonably priced city with a number of activities and great transportation. Students appreciate the energy and large number of things to do.

Is Salzburg or Nuremberg Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Both Salzburg and Nuremberg offer high quality public transit options.

The public transit in Salzburg can get you to most places easily. Trolleys and buses make it easy to get around town.

Visitors to Nuremberg can move around easily with public transportation. The city offers buses, trams, and an underground train system.

Is Salzburg or Nuremberg a more walkable city?

Salzburg and Nuremberg both are high quality when exploring on foot.

Salzburg is a very walkable destination. The old town is very walkable, but if you stay outside of the main tourist areas, you'll likely want to take a bus.

Nuremberg is very walkable. The old town in particular is very walkable and best explored on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Salzburg Worth Visiting? and Is Nuremberg Worth Visiting? .

Should I spend more time in Nuremberg or Salzburg?

How long in salzburg or nuremberg.

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Salzburg and Nuremberg. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Salzburg than in Nuremberg . Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Salzburg, and 1-3 days is enough time in Nuremberg.

Couples should spend more time in Salzburg than Nuremberg. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Salzburg that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Salzburg than Nuremberg if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Salzburg.

• How many days in Salzburg or Nuremberg? Ideal Length of Stay Salzburg 3-5   Nuremberg   1-3

One day in Salzburg or Nuremberg?

You'll find nightlife and live music around the quaint city of Salzburg. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

The beautiful city of Nuremberg offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Salzburg or Nuremberg?

You'll find live music and food around the historic destination of Salzburg. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Nuremberg is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Nuremberg, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Salzburg or Nuremberg?

You'll find food and shopping around the recognizable city of Salzburg. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

Nuremberg is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Salzburg or Nuremberg?

Salzburg is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Nuremberg is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Austria , The Best 10-Day Tours in Austria , The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Germany , and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Germany .

Which place is cheaper, Nuremberg or Salzburg?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

• Salzburg Prices Austria Prices Nuremberg Prices Germany Prices
• Average Daily Cost Per person, per day Salzburg € 155 Nuremberg € 103

The average daily cost (per person) in Salzburg is €155, while the average daily cost in Nuremberg is €103. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Salzburg and Nuremberg in more detail.

Accommodation

• Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person Salzburg € 91 Nuremberg € 61
• Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room Salzburg € 182 Nuremberg € 122

Compare Hotels in Salzburg and Nuremberg

Looking for a hotel in Salzburg or Nuremberg? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Salzburg

Hotels in Nuremberg

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.

Local Transportation

• Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc. Salzburg € 19 Nuremberg € 12

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Salzburg

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Salzburg:

• Airport Transfer: Salzburg Airport SZG to Salzburg by Luxury Car: $104
• Arrival Private Transfers: Salzburg Airport SZG to Salzburg in Business Car: $92
• Cesky Krumlov: Private One-Way Transfer to Salzburg: $634
• Departure Private Transfers: Salzburg to Salzburg Airport SZG in Business Car: $92
• Departure Private Transfers: Salzburg to Salzburg Airport SZG in Luxury Van: $94
• From Salzburg to Munich Airport- Private Transfer - punctual & friendly Driver: $215
• From Salzburg to Prague, Private Transfer with 2h of Sightseeing: $287
• Kitzbuhel, Flachau, Transfer From Salzburg & Airport SZG: $292
• Private Salzburg Airport luxury transfers to Salzburg city&Hotels: $66
• Private Transfer From Salzburg To Innsbruck, English Speaking Driver : $265
• Private Transfer From Salzburg To Kitzbuhel, English Speaking Driver : $186
• Private Transfer From Salzburg To Zell am See, Innsbruck or Kitzbuhel: $116

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Nuremberg

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Nuremberg:

• Private Transfer - Nuremberg from Harbor, Airport or Old Town: $77
• Airport Transfer in or to Nuremberg: $94
• Private Transfer - Nuremberg to Munich or Munich to Nuremberg: $193
• Private Transfer-River Cruise Dock Nuremberg to Munich: Port / Harbor transport : $207
• Private Transfer from Nuremberg to Munich with 2 hours for sightseeing: $208
• Private Transfer from Nuremberg Dock to Munich, Hotel-to-hotel: $218
• Private Transfer from Nuremberg to Munich, Door-to-Door: $218
• Nuremberg to Prague - Private Transfer with 2 hours of Sightseeing: $254
• Private Transfer from Nuremberg to Prague with 2h of Sightseeing: $260
• Private Scenic Transfer from Nuremberg to Munich with 4h of Sightseeing: $271
• From Nuremberg to Frankfurt Airport Private Transfer- punctual & friendly Driver: $271
• Private Transfer: River Cruise Dock Nuremberg to Prague: Port / Harbor transport: $271

Is it cheaper to fly into Salzburg or Nuremberg?

Prices for flights to both Nuremberg and Salzburg change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.

• Food Meals for one day Salzburg € 41 Nuremberg € 34

Typical Food Prices in Salzburg

Some typical examples of dining costs in Salzburg are as follows:

• Lunch Salad € 9.00

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Salzburg

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Salzburg.

• Cookies and Apple Strudel Cooking Class Including Lunch: $60
• Austrian Apple Strudel Cooking Class including Lunch in Salzburg: $61
• Best of Mozart Fortress Concert and Dinner: $82
• Best of Mozart Concert and Dinner or VIP Dinner at Fortress Hohensalzburg: $84
• Mozart and Advent/Christmas Concert with Dinner at Fortress Hohensalzburg: $84
• Mozart Concert with Dinner: $85
• Mozart Dinner Concert in Salzburg: $86
• Dinner Cooking Class - Prezels, Dumplings, Apple Strudel & Music: $87
• Dinner and Classical Concert at Mirabell Palace: $95
• Cruise, Dinner & Fortress Concert: $107
• Mozart Concert and Dinner or VIP Dinner at Fortress Salzburg with River Cruise: $113
• Best of Mozart Concert and GOLDEN VIP Dinner at Fortress Hohensalzburg: $135

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Nuremberg

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Nuremberg.

• 3-Hour St. Johannis Food Tour in German: $96
• Classic North Side Food Tour in German: $96
• Nürnberg City Tour with Traditional Dinner & Beer: $271

Entertainment

• Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc. Salzburg € 30 Nuremberg € 10

Tours and Activities in Salzburg

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Salzburg are as follows:

• First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.25
• Cathedral Entry Ticket with Audio Guide Option: $5.42
• City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.49
• Salzburg Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.62
• Sound of Music Sightseeing Walk with Audio Guide: $6.99
• Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $7.04
• A taste of An audio tour through the birthplace of Mozart: $7.47
• Sightseeing with the Sound of Music: A Salzburg Audio Tour: $7.47
• City Exploration Game and Tour: $8.13
• Salzburg Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.00
• Salzburg Cathedral: Guided Tour with Entry Ticket: $9.75
• Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11

Tours and Activities in Nuremberg

Here are a few actual costs in Nuremberg for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

• Selfguided Audiotour "Southern Old Town": $3.24
• Free Walking Tour Nuremberg: $3.31
• Nuremberg Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $4.97
• City Exploration Game and Tour: $5.42
• Exploration Game & Guided Tour on your Phone: $6.49
• Nuremberg through the Centuries: A Historical Audio Tour: $6.99
• Nuremberg:Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $7.59
• Self-guided Tour former Nazi Party Rally Grounds: $8.56
• Old Town Guided Tour By Bus: $11
• Medieval Dungeons Guided Tour: $11
• City Tour with the Bimmelbahn Train: $11
• Alcohol Drinks for one day Salzburg € 26 Nuremberg € 16

Typical Alcohol Prices in Salzburg

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Salzburg:

• Beer € 3.70

Sample the Local Flavors in Salzburg

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Salzburg:

• Stiegl Brewery Museum Entry Ticket & Beer Tasting: $16
• Stiegl Brewery Tour with Beer Tasting: $25
• Guided Wine Tasting in a Hidden Wine Bar: $37
• Guided Wine Tasting in a Hidden Wine Bar: $38
• Private Austrian Wine Tasting with a Pro-Sommelière: $188

Sample the Local Flavors in Nuremberg

Also in Nuremberg, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

• Pub Crawl for Bachelor and Bachelorette Parties: $24
• Private 1.5-Hour Tour with Brewery Visit: $103
• Nürnberg: Private Pub Crawl Tour: $406
• Private Premium Pub Crawl Tour: $520

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Salzburg and Nuremberg, we can see that Salzburg is more expensive. And not only is Nuremberg much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Nuremberg would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Nuremberg and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Salzburg would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Salzburg than you might in Nuremberg.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Salzburg Expensive? and Is Nuremberg Expensive? .

Nuremberg has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Salzburg. When comparing the sizes of Salzburg and Nuremberg, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Salzburg or Nuremberg?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Salzburg or Nuremberg in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Salzburg and Nuremberg. The music scene and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Salzburg this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Nuremberg for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Salzburg is generally around the same temperature as Nuremberg. Daily temperatures in Salzburg average around 20°C (68°F), and Nuremberg fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Nuremberg this time of the year. In Salzburg, it's very sunny this time of the year. Salzburg usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Nuremberg during summer. Salzburg gets 227 hours of sunny skies, while Nuremberg receives 236 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Salzburg usually receives more rain than Nuremberg. Salzburg gets 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Nuremberg receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.

• Summer Average Temperatures July Salzburg 20°C (68°F)   Nuremberg   20°C (68°F)

Should I visit Salzburg or Nuremberg in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Salzburg as well as Nuremberg. Many travelers come to Salzburg for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Nuremberg in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Salzburg is around the same temperature as Nuremberg in the autumn. The daily temperature in Salzburg averages around 11°C (52°F) in October, and Nuremberg fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In the autumn, Salzburg often gets less sunshine than Nuremberg. Salzburg gets 108 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nuremberg receives 122 hours of full sun.

Salzburg usually gets more rain in October than Nuremberg. Salzburg gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Nuremberg receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

• Autumn Average Temperatures October Salzburg 11°C (52°F)   Nuremberg   12°C (53°F)

Should I visit Salzburg or Nuremberg in the Winter?

Both Nuremberg and Salzburg are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Salzburg in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Nuremberg for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Nuremberg can be very cold during winter. Salzburg can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Salzburg is much colder than Nuremberg. Typically, the winter temperatures in Salzburg in January average around -0°C (31°F), and Nuremberg averages at about 1°C (34°F).

Salzburg usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Nuremberg during winter. Salzburg gets 44 hours of sunny skies, while Nuremberg receives 47 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Salzburg usually receives more rain than Nuremberg. Salzburg gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Nuremberg receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.

• Winter Average Temperatures January Salzburg -0°C (31°F)   Nuremberg   1°C (34°F)

Should I visit Salzburg or Nuremberg in the Spring?

Both Nuremberg and Salzburg during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Salzburg for the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Nuremberg because of the natural beauty.

In April, Salzburg is generally around the same temperature as Nuremberg. Daily temperatures in Salzburg average around 11°C (51°F), and Nuremberg fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

In the spring, Salzburg often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Nuremberg. Salzburg gets 155 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nuremberg receives 166 hours of full sun.

Salzburg usually gets more rain in April than Nuremberg. Salzburg gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Nuremberg receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

• Spring Average Temperatures April Salzburg 11°C (51°F)   Nuremberg   10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Nuremberg and Salzburg

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