1-Day Solo Adventure: Discover Hidden Gems in Salzburg

Salzburg, Austria

1 days

Panoramic view of the historic city with Salzach river
Hallstatt Lake Town in Austria's mountainous Salzkammergut region, High Alps parkland
Panorama of the city
The Salzburg Cathedral in Austria
Hallstatt village in Alps

About Salzburg, Austria

Experience the charm of Salzburg, Austria, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, nestled amidst the majestic Alps. Known as the birthplace of Mozart, Salzburg is a symphony of baroque architecture, music, and culture. Visit the iconic Hohensalzburg Fortress, offering panoramic city views, and explore the historic Old Town with its stunning cathedral and bustling Getreidegasse shopping street. Indulge in the city's rich musical heritage at the Mozart's Birthplace and the Salzburg Festival. Don't miss the enchanting Mirabell Palace and Gardens, and the Schloss Hellbrunn with its playful water games. For 'Sound of Music' fans, a themed tour is a must. Enjoy traditional Austrian cuisine and the famous Mozartkugel chocolates. Salzburg is a captivating blend of culture, history, and natural beauty.

1-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring Historic Salzburg

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the historic Hohensalzburg Fortress, a Salzburg landmark that offers stunning city views. Explore the fortress's museums and enjoy the panoramic vistas.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Austrian lunch at a local eatery in the city center. Try some of the local delicacies like Wiener Schnitzel or Apfelstrudel.

Afternoon

After lunch, take a leisurely stroll through the Mirabell Gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Don't miss the chance to see the Pegasus Fountain and the Dwarf Garden.

Dinner

For dinner, head to a local restaurant in the old town area. Enjoy a hearty meal while soaking in the ambiance of this historic part of the city.

Evening

End your day with a visit to the Salzburg Cathedral. This baroque cathedral is a sight to behold, especially when it's lit up at night. Take some time to appreciate its stunning architecture before heading back to your accommodation.

Attractions in Itinerary (3)

Hohensalzburg Fortress

1
Hohensalzburg Fortress

One of the largest and best preserved medieval castles in Europe, offering panoramic views of Salzburg.

Attractions
Monuments
Landmarks
Mirabell Gardens

2
Mirabell Gardens

A beautiful baroque garden, part of the Mirabell Palace. A must-visit for its stunning floral displays and statues.

Attractions
Parks
Gardens
Salzburg Cathedral

3
Salzburg Cathedral

Salzburg Cathedral is a 17th-century Baroque cathedral of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Salzburg, dedicated to Saint Rupert and Saint Vergilius. It is a prominent landmark in the city, known for its stunning architecture and historical significance.

Attractions
Landmarks
Religious Sites

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Mozartkugel

Mozartkugel

A famous sweet treat from Salzburg, named after the city's most famous son, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. It's a small, round chocolate candy filled with marzipan and nougat.

Wiener Schnitzel

Wiener Schnitzel

A popular Austrian dish, typically made with veal, that is breaded and fried. It's a must-try for any visitor to Salzburg.

Apfelstrudel

Apfelstrudel

A traditional Austrian dessert, made with thin pastry wrapped around a filling of apples, sugar, cinnamon, and raisins. It's often served with a dusting of powdered sugar.

Sachertorte

Sachertorte

A famous Austrian chocolate cake, invented by Franz Sacher in Vienna, but also very popular in Salzburg. It consists of a dense chocolate cake with a thin layer of apricot jam, coated in dark chocolate icing.

Kaiserschmarrn

Kaiserschmarrn

A light, caramelized pancake made from a sweet batter using flour, eggs, sugar, salt, and milk, baked in butter. Kaiserschmarrn is cut into pieces while frying and usually served with powdered sugar and apple sauce or plum compote.

Stelze

Stelze

A traditional Austrian dish, it's a roasted pork knuckle, usually served with potatoes and cabbage salad. It's a hearty meal, perfect for meat lovers visiting Salzburg.

Tafelspitz

Tafelspitz

Considered Austria's national dish, Tafelspitz is boiled beef in broth, served with a mix of minced apples and horseradish. It's a classic dish that's very popular in Salzburg.

Knoedel

These are traditional Austrian dumplings, which can be made from bread, potatoes, or cheese, and are often served as a side dish with meat. They're a staple in Salzburg cuisine.

Gulasch

Gulasch

A hearty stew made with beef, onions, and a variety of spices. It's a popular dish in Salzburg, especially during the colder months.

Almdudler

Almdudler

A popular Austrian soft drink made from grape and apple juice concentrate with herbs. It's often referred to as the national drink of Austria and is a must-try when in Salzburg.

Stiegl Bier

Stiegl is Salzburg's local beer, brewed in the city since 1492. It's a popular choice among locals and tourists alike.

Schnapps

A strong alcoholic beverage, often fruit-flavored. It's a traditional Austrian drink, and many local varieties can be found in Salzburg.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Salzburg, Austria is typically between April and October. During these months, the weather is most favorable for sightseeing and outdoor activities. However, if you're a fan of classical music, you might want to consider visiting in late July or August to catch the renowned Salzburg Festival. For winter sports enthusiasts, the months of December to March offer excellent skiing conditions in the surrounding Alps.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day

January 6

Sat

Epiphany

April 1

Mon

Easter Monday

May 1

Wed

Labor Day / May Day

May 9

Thu

Ascension Day

May 20

Mon

Whit Monday

May 30

Thu

Corpus Christi

August 15

Thu

Assumption of Mary

October 26

Sat

National Day

November 1

Fri

All Saints' Day

December 8

Sun

Immaculate Conception

December 25

Wed

Christmas Day

December 26

Thu

St. Stephen's Day

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

Salzburg has an extensive public bus network operated by Salzburg Verkehr. Buses run frequently and cover most parts of the city and surrounding areas. Tickets can be purchased at ticket machines at bus stops, online, or via the mobile app.

The Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB) operates trains in Salzburg. The main train station, Salzburg Hauptbahnhof, is well-connected to other Austrian cities and neighboring countries. It's a convenient option for day trips or longer journeys.

Taxis are readily available throughout Salzburg. They can be hailed on the street, booked in advance, or picked up from designated taxi ranks. All taxis use meters, and drivers are generally honest and reliable.

Uber operates in Salzburg, providing a convenient and often cheaper alternative to traditional taxis. The service can be accessed and booked via the Uber app.

Salzburg is a bike-friendly city with numerous bike paths and lanes. Bikes can be rented from various locations throughout the city, including some hotels and bike rental shops.

Renting a car can be a good option if you plan to explore the countryside around Salzburg. However, be aware that parking in the city can be challenging and expensive. Most international car rental companies have offices in Salzburg.

Salzburg's city center is compact and pedestrian-friendly, making walking an excellent way to explore. Many of the city's main attractions, including the Old Town and Mirabell Palace, are within easy walking distance of each other.

Salzburg is located on the Salzach River, and there are several boat tours available. These tours offer a unique perspective of the city and its beautiful surroundings.

The Festungsbahn funicular is a quick and convenient way to reach Hohensalzburg Fortress. It departs from the base of the Monchsberg mountain and takes just a few minutes to reach the top.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency€ EUR

Time zoneUTC+1

Driving sideRight

Emergency phone112, 122

Drinking waterYes

Power sockets

Power socket type CPower socket type F

Voltage230 V

Things to know about Salzburg, Austria as a first time visitor

1

Salzburg is the fourth-largest city in Austria, known for its baroque architecture and stunning alpine setting.

2

The official language is German, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

3

The currency used is the Euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's always good to have some cash on hand for smaller establishments.

4

Salzburg has a temperate seasonal climate. Summers (June to August) are warm with temperatures ranging from 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C). Winters (December to February) are cold with temperatures ranging from 23°F to 34°F (-5°C to 1°C).

5

Tipping is customary in Salzburg. It's common to round up to the nearest euro in cafes and bars, and to leave a 10% tip in restaurants.

6

Public transportation in Salzburg is excellent. The city has a comprehensive network of buses and trains, and a Salzburg Card can provide unlimited use for a set period.

7

Salzburg is a very safe city, but like any tourist destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings.

8

The city is very pedestrian-friendly, with many of the main attractions within walking distance of each other.

9

Salzburg is known for its music festivals, particularly the Salzburg Festival, a summer event featuring opera, theatre, and concerts.

10

The city's cuisine is heavily influenced by its Austrian and Bavarian roots. Be sure to try local specialties like Wiener Schnitzel and Sacher Torte.

11

Salzburg is in the Central European Time Zone (CET), which is 1 hour ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+1).

12

The city has a wide range of accommodations to suit all budgets, from luxury hotels to budget hostels and guesthouses.

13

Salzburg has a strong tradition of brewing, with numerous breweries in the city. Trying a local beer is a must.

14

The city is also famous for its Christmas markets, particularly the one in the Old Town, which is one of the oldest in the world.

15

Salzburg is a city of culture, with numerous museums, galleries, and theaters. The Salzburg Museum and the Museum of Modern Art are particularly worth visiting.

16

The city is also a great base for exploring the wider region, with the Alps and the Salzkammergut lake district within easy reach.

17

Salzburg has a wide range of shopping options, from high-end boutiques to local markets and souvenir shops.

18

The city's tap water is of high quality and safe to drink.

19

Salzburg has a vibrant nightlife, with a range of bars, clubs, and live music venues.

20

The city is also home to several universities, giving it a youthful and energetic vibe.

Basic German to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

Hallo

Ha-lo

Greeting someone

Goodbye

Auf Wiedersehen

Owf vee-der-zane

Saying goodbye

Please

Bitte

Bit-te

Making a request

Thank you

Danke

Dahn-ke

Expressing gratitude

Yes

Ja

Ya

Agreeing or confirming

No

Nein

Nine

Disagreeing or denying

Excuse me

Entschuldigung

Ent-shool-dee-goong

Getting attention or apologizing

I'm sorry

Es tut mir leid

Es toot meer lite

Apologizing

Do you speak English?

Sprechen Sie Englisch?

Shprekhen zee Eng-lish

Asking if someone speaks English

I don't understand

Ich verstehe nicht

Ikh fer-shtay-uh nikht

Expressing confusion

Where is...?

Wo ist...?

Vo ist

Asking for directions

Bathroom

Toilette

Toi-let-te

Looking for a bathroom

Help

Hilfe

Hil-fe

In case of emergency

How much does it cost?

Wie viel kostet das?

Vee feel kos-tet das

Asking for the price

I would like...

Ich möchte...

Ikh mukh-te

Making a request

Water

Wasser

Vas-er

Ordering water

Beer

Bier

Beer

Ordering beer

Wine

Wein

Vine

Ordering wine

Food

Essen

Es-sen

Talking about food

Cheers

Prost

Prost

Making a toast

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Lightweight clothing

  • Warm sweater or jacket

  • Rain jacket or umbrella

  • Sunglasses

  • Hat or cap

  • Toiletries

  • Travel-size toiletries

  • Sunscreen

  • Hand sanitizer

  • Prescription medications

  • First-aid kit

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport or ID

  • Wallet with Euros

  • Credit and debit cards

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Hotel and transportation reservation confirmations

  • Emergency contacts and addresses

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger and adapter

  • Camera

  • Headphones

  • Portable power bank

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Snacks and water bottle

  • Travel guidebook for Salzburg

  • Notebook and pen

  • Reusable shopping bag

  • Travel pillow and eye mask

Weather Conditions

Salzburg, Austria, is a beautiful city with a temperate climate that varies throughout the year. It's important to plan your visit according to the weather conditions you prefer. If you're a fan of winter sports or just love the snow, the best time to visit Salzburg would be from December to March. During these months, temperatures can drop to as low as 23°F (-5°C) and rarely exceed 45°F (7°C). Remember to pack warm clothing, including hats, gloves, and scarves, as it can get quite chilly, especially in the evenings. For those who prefer milder temperatures, spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) are ideal. During these seasons, temperatures typically range from 45°F (7°C) to 68°F (20°C). It's the perfect weather for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Pack layers as it can still be cool in the mornings and evenings. Summer, from July to August, is the warmest season in Salzburg with temperatures ranging from 59°F (15°C) to 79°F (26°C). It's a great time for outdoor concerts, festivals, and hiking. However, summer is also the wettest season, so don't forget to pack a raincoat or umbrella. Regardless of when you visit, keep in mind that Salzburg's weather can be unpredictable. It's always a good idea to check the forecast before your trip and pack accordingly. Enjoy your visit to this enchanting city!

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

4° / -3°

January is the coldest month in Salzburg, with frequent snowfall and chilly winds. Make sure to pack warm clothes and enjoy the winter wonderland.

February

6° / -2°

February is still cold with occasional snowfall. It's a great time for winter sports enthusiasts.

March

11° / 1°

March sees the start of spring with temperatures gradually increasing. The snow starts to melt, and the city begins to bloom.

April

16° / 4°

April offers mild temperatures and longer daylight hours. It's a great time to explore the city's outdoor attractions.

May

20° / 8°

May is a pleasant month with warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine. It's perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

June

25° / 11°

June marks the beginning of summer with long sunny days. It's an ideal time for hiking and enjoying the beautiful Salzburg scenery.

July

27° / 13°

July is the warmest month in Salzburg. Enjoy the summer festivals and outdoor concerts in the city.

August

25° / 13°

August is still warm with occasional rain showers. It's a great time to visit the city's parks and gardens.

September

21° / 9°

September offers comfortable temperatures and fewer tourists. Enjoy the beautiful autumn colors in the city.

October

15° / 5°

October sees cooler temperatures and the leaves changing colors. It's a great time for photography and leisurely walks.

November

9° / 1°

November is a chilly month with shorter days. Pack warm clothes and enjoy the cozy cafes in the city.

December

6° / -2°

December is a festive month with Christmas markets and snowfall. It's a magical time to visit Salzburg.

Did you know?

Did you know that Salzburg is the fourth-largest city in Austria, with a population of about 150,000 people?

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