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, 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.

Salzburg Shuffle: A Day Trip Guide

Nestled amidst the glorious Eastern Alps, Salzburg, Austria is a charming city offering picturesque views, vibrant cultural experiences and an eclectic mix of architecture ranging from medieval to baroque. Visitors can explore the city's rich musical heritage by visiting the birthplace of Mozart or attend one of the many classical music concerts hosted annually. Additionally, the city also offers a variety of culinary delights, especially its signature sweet treat, the Mozartkugel.

The Ultimate Salzburg Adventure: Family Fun on a Budget

Salzburg, Austria offers a perfect family-friendly destination with its rich history, stunning scenery, and a plethora of activities for all ages. Explore the city's iconic locations like the Hohensalzburg Fortress and Mirabell Palace, or take a leisurely stroll through the picturesque Old Town. Families can also indulge in a day trip to the nearby Salzkammergut region, famous for its crystal-clear lakes and charming alpine villages, providing endless opportunities for outdoor adventures and creating beautiful memories for the whole family.

Salzburg Delights: Mozart, Views, and Medieval Magic

Salzburg, Austria is an ideal destination for a family-friendly trip, offering a blend of history, natural beauty, and cultural experiences. Explore the picturesque Old Town, filled with baroque architecture and charming squares, where the famous Mozart was born. Take a walk beside the beautiful Salzach River or head up the funicular to visit the fairy-tale fortress of Hohensalzburg, providing panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains.