Salzburg on a Budget: Music and Mountains

Experience the charm of Salzburg without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

Salzburg, Austria is a charming city that can be explored on a budget. Take a stroll through the Old Town and visit the beautiful Mirabell Palace. Enjoy a picnic by the Salzach river or hike up to the Hohensalzburg Fortress for a stunning view of the city.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Musical Morsels and Alpine Adventures

  • Check into Yoho Hostel a budget-friendly option with comfy beds.
  • Start the day off with a coffee and strudel at Café Tomaselli, a classic spot that's been serving up sweet treats since 1700.
  • Take a stroll through the Mirabell Palace Gardens, where the Von Trapp family famously frolicked in The Sound of Music.
  • Get a bird's eye view of the city on the funicular up to Hohensalzburg Fortress, a medieval castle with panoramic views.
  • For lunch, head to Stiegl-Keller, a traditional beer garden with hearty Austrian fare and live music.
  • Spend the afternoon hiking up Kapuzinerberg, a nearby mountain with stunning vistas and hidden paths.
Day 2

Baroque Beauty and Culinary Delights

  • Enjoy a complimentary breakfast at the hostel before venturing out to the baroque Old Town.
  • Marvel at the ornate interior of Salzburg Cathedral, one of the main sights on Residenzplatz.
  • Pop into Mozart's Birthplace, a museum dedicated to the famed composer and his upbringing in Salzburg.
  • Have a midday snack at Bäckerei Friesacher, a bakery with tasty sandwiches and pastries.
  • Visit the Salzburg Museum, which showcases the city's history, art, and cultural identity.
  • End the day on a high note with dinner at Sternbräu, a restaurant that serves up fine dining with a side of live classical music.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Salzburg, Austria by plane is to fly into Salzburg Airport (SZG). There are several airlines that offer direct flights to Salzburg from major European cities.

Car

The best way to get to Salzburg, Austria by car is to drive from Munich. The journey takes around 1.5 hours and the route follows the A8 motorway towards Salzburg.

Train

The best way to get to Salzburg, Austria by train is to take the EuroCity (EC) train from Vienna to Salzburg. The journey takes around 2-3 hours and the train departs from Wien Hauptbahnhof (Vienna Central Station) and arrives at Salzburg Hauptbahnhof (Salzburg Central Station).

Boat

There is no direct way to get to Salzburg, Austria by boat. However, it is possible to take a boat from Passau, Germany to Linz, Austria and then take a train or bus to Salzburg.

Bus

The best way to get to Salzburg, Austria by bus is to take the Flixbus from Munich. The journey takes around 2 hours and the bus departs from Munich Central Bus Station (ZOB) and arrives at Salzburg Main Station.

More travel plans

Salzburg Sensations: A 3-Day Family Adventure

Salzburg, Austria offers a perfect getaway for a family-friendly trip. Explore the charming Old Town, filled with baroque architecture and historic landmarks like the iconic Hohensalzburg Fortress. The city also offers a range of kid-friendly attractions, such as the world-renowned Salzburg Zoo, Mirabell Gardens with its enchanting Pegasus Fountain, and a chance to relive the beloved film The Sound of Music through guided tours.

The Ultimate 3-Day Romantic Getaway to Salzburg

Salzburg's enchanting old town, nestled in the Alps, provides the perfect backdrop for a romantic trip. From exploring the birthplace of Mozart, strolling through exquisite gardens, to enjoying a horse-drawn carriage ride through the city's narrow streets, Salzburg offers an abundance of romantic activities. Admire stunning mountain views and indulge in traditional Austrian cuisine, and you're sure to have a memorable time in this captivating city.

Salzburg, Austria: Mozart, Mountains & Schnitzel

A trip to Salzburg, Austria on a limited budget can be easily achievable by staying in budget accommodations like hostels or renting a room in an Airbnb. Taking advantage of free walking tours and visiting free attractions such as Mirabell Palace and Gardens can also help cut down expenses, while sampling traditional Austrian cuisine can still be done by visiting local eateries and food markets. Lastly, using public transportation like buses and trains can help save money on transportation costs while exploring the city.

Romantic Salzburg: A 2-Day Getaway

Salzburg, located in Austria, offers a romantic getaway with its breathtaking views of the Alps and the beautiful Salzach River. Visitors can explore the Baroque architecture of the city, including the Mirabell Palace, and indulge in Mozart's music through various concerts and festivals. Couples can also savor Austrian cuisine and fine wines while taking leisurely strolls around the city's charming cobblestone streets.