Salzburg Travel: 100 Questions Answered based on NeemTime research
General Travel & Planning
How many days are enough for Salzburg?
Travelers suggest 2-3 full days for the city center, with additional days for day trips. You can see the main sights in one day, but two to three days allow for a more leisurely pace and time for museums.
Is the Salzburg Card worth it?
Yes, if you plan to visit at least two major sights like the Hohensalzburg Fortress and a Mozart house, and use public transport. It also includes the Untersberg cable car, which is expensive on its own.
When is the best time to visit Salzburg?
Many recommend late spring/early summer or early fall for pleasant weather and fewer crowds than the peak summer months.
Is Salzburg walkable?
Absolutely. The city center is compact and best explored on foot. You can walk from the train station to the old town in about 30 minutes.
Do I need a car in Salzburg?
No, a car is not necessary for exploring the city. Traffic is bad, and parking is expensive. Public transport and walking are the best options.
How is the public transport in Salzburg?
It’s considered very good. Buses are frequent and reliable. The Salzburg Card covers city buses.
How do I get from the airport to the city center?
Take bus number 2 or 10. They run frequently and the journey takes about 20 minutes. Buying a ticket from the machine is cheaper than from the driver.
Is Salzburg expensive?
The old town can be expensive, especially for food and souvenirs. You can save money by getting water and snacks from a grocery store like Spar or Interspar.
What’s the best way to get around Salzburg?
Walking is highly recommended. For longer distances, a combination of walking and using the public bus system is efficient.
What’s the best way to get around with the Salzburg Card?
The physical card needs to have the date, time, and your name written on the back. It is automatically activated at the first attraction you use it at.
Must-See Sights & Activities
What are the top things to do in Salzburg?
Explore the Altstadt (Old Town), visit Hohensalzburg Fortress, stroll through Mirabell Palace and Gardens, and walk along the Mönchsberg and Kapuzinerberg hills for great views.
Should I walk or take the funicular up to Hohensalzburg Fortress?
The walk is only about 10 minutes and offers nice views. The funicular is included with the Salzburg Card and is a good option if you want to save time or energy.
Is the Sound of Music tour worth it?
It depends on how big of a fan you are. Many travelers who enjoyed the tour say it’s a great way to see the surrounding areas and famous filming locations, while others prefer to explore on their own.
What’s a good alternative to the Sound of Music tour for seeing the countryside?
Rent a bike and cycle to Hellbrunn Palace and Leopoldskron Palace. You can also take public bus #25 to Hellbrunn.
What is Hellbrunn Palace known for?
The “Wasserspiele” (trick fountains) are the main attraction. The park is beautiful to walk through.
Are Mozart’s Birthplace and Residence worth visiting?
They are popular tourist sights. If you’re a classical music fan, they are a must-see. If not, you might consider other museums.
What’s a lesser-known museum worth visiting?
The Haus der Natur (Natural History Museum) is highly recommended for all ages.
Is the Salzburg Cathedral worth a visit?
Yes, it’s a beautiful piece of Baroque architecture. The entrance is often free unless there’s a special event.
What’s the best way to see the city from above?
Take the cable car up Untersberg mountain (included in the Salzburg Card), or walk up the Mönchsberg or Kapuzinerberg hills.
Is it true that there’s a market on Thursdays?
Yes, the Schranne Market is a must-see if you’re in town on a Thursday.
Food & Drink
Where can I get good, authentic Austrian food in Salzburg?
Travelers recommend places like Bärenwirt for fried chicken, St. Peter Stiftskeller for a traditional, high-end experience, and Augustiner Bräuhaus for a classic beer garden feel where you can bring your own food.
What is a “Bosna”? Where can I try one?
A Bosna is a spicy sausage in a bun, unique to Salzburg. The original can be found at Balkan Grill Walter in the old town.
What about desserts? What should I try?
Don’t miss a “Mozartkugel” (chocolate-pistachio marzipan candy). For the original, go to Café Fürst. Also, try “Salzburger Nockerln” at a traditional restaurant, but be warned that it’s a very large and sweet soufflé.
Any recommendations for cozy cafes?
Café Tomaselli, Café Bazar, and Café Wernbacher are often mentioned as classic coffee houses. Café 220° is praised for its great coffee.
Is there a good place to have a beer?
Augustiner Bräu is a massive beer hall where you get your beer in a stone mug and can bring your own food or buy from the stalls. It’s a very local experience.
Are there any good vegan or vegetarian options?
Lakhi’s Kitchen (Indian food) is mentioned as a good option with vegetarian dishes.
Where can I get a good, quick bite?
The Bosna stand (Balkan Grill Walter) is a popular choice for a cheap and delicious meal.
Is it okay to drink tap water?
Yes, Salzburg’s tap water is high quality and comes from alpine springs.
What’s a “Salzburger” coffee?
An off-menu coffee drink that only locals know about; try asking for it at a coffee house to surprise the waiter.
What are “Leberkas-Roll”?
A type of meatloaf sandwich that is a local delicacy. Travelers suggest getting it from a small, local butcher shop.
Day Trips
What are the best day trips from Salzburg?
The Berchtesgaden area (Königssee, Eagle’s Nest), the Salzkammergut Lake District (Wolfgangsee, Mondsee, St. Gilgen), and the Eisriesenwelt ice caves in Werfen.
Is Hallstatt worth visiting?
Many travelers advise against it due to extreme over-tourism. They suggest alternatives like Wolfgangsee, Mondsee, or Altaussee for a similar but less crowded experience.
How do I get to Königssee and Berchtesgaden?
You can take a direct bus (bus 840) from Salzburg to Berchtesgaden. From there, you can take another bus or walk to Königssee.
How do I get to the Eisriesenwelt ice caves in Werfen?
Take the train from Salzburg to Werfen, then a shuttle bus to the visitor center. Be prepared for a walk and a cable car ride to get to the cave entrance.
What’s the best lake to visit for a day trip?
Wolfgangsee is a popular choice, with the Schafbergbahn cog railway being a major highlight. Mondsee is another option, known for its “Sound of Music” basilica.
Is the Eagle’s Nest worth the trip?
The views from the top are spectacular. The historical significance is at the Documentation Center at the base. It’s a very touristy experience, but many find it worthwhile.
Can I do both the Eagle’s Nest and Königssee in one day?
Yes, it’s possible but requires an early start and a tight schedule.
How do I get to the Salzkammergut Lake District?
The most common way is via bus from Salzburg. Bus 150 goes to St. Gilgen and then St. Wolfgang.
What is there to do in Mondsee?
The main attraction is the Basilica St. Michael, which was used in the wedding scene in “The Sound of Music.” The town itself is a charming lakeside village.
Are there any good hikes or mountains near Salzburg?
Untersberg is a popular choice for a cable car ride and hiking on the plateau. For a closer option, hike up the Mönchsberg or Kapuzinerberg hills.
Safety and Local Culture
Is Salzburg safe for tourists?
Yes, Salzburg is generally considered very safe.
What are the locals like?
Some travelers describe them as reserved or giving foreigners a hard time, while others say they are helpful and friendly. Common sense and respectful behavior go a long way.
Is English widely spoken?
In tourist areas, yes. You won’t have a problem getting by with English.
What’s a local delicacy to try?
The “Bosna” and the original “Mozartkugel” from Café Fürst are top recommendations.
Are shops closed on Sundays?
Yes, most grocery stores and shops are closed from Saturday evening to Monday morning.
How can I avoid tourist traps?
Avoid restaurants with tourist menus and lots of English signs. Look for places frequented by locals, or those slightly off the main thoroughfares.
What’s the nightlife like?
Salzburg is not known for its wild nightlife. People are typically out on Wednesdays and weekends.
Should I bring cash or use a credit card?
Credit cards are widely accepted in most places, but it’s always good to have some euros for smaller purchases or local stands.
How do I get to the museums for free?
The Salzburg Card provides one free entry to most major museums and sights.
What’s the best way to interact with locals?
Be polite, learn a few German phrases, and show genuine interest in the city. You might get a better experience by not following the huge tourist groups.
Itinerary Suggestions
What’s a good one-day itinerary for Salzburg?
Morning: Hohensalzburg Fortress and Altstadt.
Afternoon: Mirabell Palace and Gardens, walk along the Salzach river, and explore the streets.
Evening: A traditional dinner and a walk through the city lights.
What’s a good two-day itinerary for Salzburg?
Day 1: City center sights (Fortress, Old Town, Mirabell Gardens).
Day 2: Day trip to Hellbrunn Palace, Untersberg mountain, or a nearby lake like Mondsee.
What’s a good three-day itinerary for Salzburg?
Day 1: Old Town sights.
Day 2: Untersberg cable car and Hellbrunn Palace.
Day 3: A day trip to Königssee/Berchtesgaden or the Salzkammergut region.
Can I visit Salzburg and Munich on the same trip?
Yes, the train ride is about 1.5-2 hours and is quite scenic. You can easily do a day trip or spend a few days in each city.
What’s a good multi-city itinerary including Salzburg?
Many suggest a Vienna -> Salzburg -> Munich route, as the cities are well-connected by train and offer different experiences.
Should I take a guided tour of the city?
Travelers are split. Some find them informative, while others prefer to explore on their own and discover things at their own pace.
Is a bike tour a good idea?
A bike tour, particularly one that goes out to Hellbrunn and Leopoldskron, is a great way to cover more ground and see the surroundings beyond the immediate city center.
Where can I find a less touristy walk with great views?
Walk up the Kapuzinerberg. It’s a bit less crowded than Mönchsberg and offers a different perspective of the city.
Is it possible to visit a salt mine as a day trip?
Yes, the Hallein Salt Mine is a popular choice and can be done easily as a day trip.
What are some recommendations for a rainy day?
Visit the Haus der Natur, the Salzburg Museum, or the Museum of Modern Art. You can also catch a show at the Marionette Theatre.
What’s a great place to visit for the “Sound of Music” fans besides the tour?
Mirabell Gardens, Leopoldskron Palace (view from outside), and Mondsee’s Basilica St. Michael are all popular spots from the film.
Is it easy to get lost in Salzburg’s old town?
No, it’s a small city. The streets and alleyways are a bit winding, but you’re never too far from a major landmark or a public transport stop.
What’s the best time to visit Mirabell Gardens for photos?
Early in the morning to avoid the crowds.
Can I do a trip to the Grossglockner High Alpine Road from Salzburg?
Yes, but it requires a car and is a full-day trip. It’s a stunning drive for mountain lovers.
Is it worth it to visit the Documentation Center Obersalzberg?
Yes, it provides excellent historical context to the Eagle’s Nest and the area’s Nazi history.
Any tips for hiking near Salzburg?
Wear proper shoes. Even seemingly easy trails on mountains like Untersberg or Nockstein can have steep sections.
What’s the best way to get to St. Wolfgang?
Take the bus from Salzburg to St. Gilgen, and then a boat across the lake to St. Wolfgang.
Is it possible to visit the ice caves and the Hohenwerfen Fortress in one day?
Yes, they are in the same general area in Werfen and can be combined into one day trip.
What’s a good activity for families with kids?
The trick fountains at Hellbrunn, the Haus der Natur, and the Hellbrunn Zoo are all great for kids.
Are there any good food markets in Salzburg?
Besides the Thursday Schranne market, there are smaller farmers’ markets. The Universitätsplatz is a popular spot for food stalls.
What’s a good place for a quiet walk in the city?
The Steingasse is a less-crowded street that’s worth exploring, or walk along the Salzach River.
How can I avoid getting drenched at the Hellbrunn trick fountains?
You can’t. Part of the fun is being surprised by the fountains. Be prepared to get a little wet.
Is the Salzburg Festival a good time to visit?
It’s a great time for culture, but the city will be extremely crowded and accommodations more expensive. Book well in advance.
What’s a good place to buy souvenirs?
You’ll find many souvenir shops in the Altstadt, but travelers suggest looking for local products like the original Mozartkugel or unique crafts instead of mass-produced items.
What’s the deal with the “Mozartkugel” and the different kinds?
The original “Mozartkugel” is made by Fürst and has a dark chocolate wrapper. There are other brands, like Mirabell, that are more widely available but not the original recipe.
How far is Salzburg from Vienna by train?
About 2.5 hours on the high-speed rail.
Is the Salzburg airport easy to navigate?
Yes, it’s a small airport and very easy to get through.
What’s a good way to see a lot in a short time?
Get a 24-hour Salzburg Card and pack as many sights as you can into that timeframe.
Is it easy to find vegetarian food in traditional Austrian restaurants?
It can be a challenge. While some places will have a vegetarian option, you might have better luck at modern or international restaurants.
What’s a good alternative to the Fortress walk for city views?
Take the elevator up to the top of the Mönchsberg at the Museum of Modern Art.
What are the “Steintheater” and “Monatsschlössl” at Hellbrunn?
The Steintheater is a unique open-air stage carved into the rock. The Monatsschlössl is a small hunting lodge with a folk museum inside.
Is the Salzach River boat tour a good idea?
It’s a nice way to see the city from a different perspective and get some great photos.
Are there any good waterfalls to visit near Salzburg?
The Golling Waterfall is a bit off the beaten path but highly recommended for its scenic beauty.
Can I use my credit card for public transport?
You can often use a mobile app to buy tickets, which is convenient. Otherwise, tickets are available at machines, tobacco shops, or from the driver (more expensive).
What’s the best time of year for hiking?
Late spring to early fall offers the best weather for hiking in the mountains.
Is it necessary to book accommodations in advance?
Yes, especially during peak season or festival times, as Salzburg is a popular destination.
What’s a good way to see the city on a budget?
Focus on the free sights like Mirabell Gardens and walking the hills. Buy your food from grocery stores instead of restaurants.
What’s the best way to get to Hallstatt from Salzburg?
You can take a train with a connection, or a combination of bus and train. It is possible, but not a quick trip.
Are there any hidden gems in the Altstadt?
The small alleyways that connect the main streets, like Getreidegasse, often have unique shops and cafes.
Is the Salzburg Museum worth it?
It’s a good place to learn about the history of the city and region. If you have the Salzburg Card, it’s a worthwhile stop.
What’s a good hotel recommendation?
Traveler’s responses are varied, but a good tip is to stay close to the old town or the main train station (Hauptbahnhof) for easy access.
Is it safe to walk around Salzburg at night?
Yes, the city center is well-lit and generally safe.
What’s a “Wasserspiele”?
The trick fountains at Hellbrunn, designed to playfully surprise visitors with jets of water.
Are there any good food tours?
No specific tours are mentioned, but many users suggest creating your own by sampling local specialties like Bosna and Mozartkugel.
What is a “Brauhaus”?
A beer hall, often with a large beer garden, where you can get traditional Austrian food and beer.
Can I visit Zell am See as a day trip?
It’s a bit further than other day trips, but doable by train. It’s known for its beautiful lake and mountain scenery.
Are there any castles other than Hohensalzburg Fortress to visit?
The Hohensalzburg is the main one, but you can also visit Hellbrunn Palace or the smaller, older Hohenwerfen Fortress in Werfen.
Is the walk to the Steintheater difficult?
It’s a bit of a hike, but it’s a good way to see a hidden part of the Hellbrunn grounds.
Is it better to stay in a hotel or an Airbnb?
This is a personal preference. An Airbnb might be a good option if you want to cook for yourself and save money.
What’s the best way to enjoy a trip to Salzburg?
Slow down, don’t try to see everything. Allow time to wander the streets, sit at a café, and soak in the atmosphere.