3-Day Solo Adventure: Sightseeing and Nightlife in Salzburg, Austria
Salzburg, Austria
3 days
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.
3-Day Itinerary
Day 2
Discovering the Salzburg Museum and the Salzach River
Morning
Visit the Salzburg Museum in the morning. The museum houses a vast collection of artifacts and exhibits about the city's history and culture.
Lunch
Have lunch in a café near the museum. The area is known for its delicious pastries and coffee.
Afternoon
Take a leisurely stroll along the Salzach River in the afternoon. The river offers beautiful views of the city and its surrounding landscapes.
Dinner
Enjoy a hearty Austrian dinner in a restaurant in the city center. The area is known for its diverse food scene, offering everything from traditional Austrian dishes to international cuisine.
Evening
End the day with a visit to a local pub in the Old Town. The area is known for its lively nightlife and friendly locals.
Day 3
Visiting the Hellbrunn Palace and Exploring the Old Town
Morning
Start your last day with a visit to the Hellbrunn Palace and its trick fountains. The palace is a popular tourist attraction and offers a unique and fun experience.
Lunch
Have lunch in a local restaurant near the palace. The area offers a variety of dining options, from traditional Austrian cuisine to international dishes.
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon exploring the historic Old Town. The area is home to many of the city's landmarks, including the Salzburg Cathedral and Mozart's Birthplace.
Dinner
Enjoy your last dinner in Salzburg in a restaurant in the city center. The area offers a wide range of dining options, from traditional Austrian cuisine to international dishes.
Evening
End your trip with a night out in the city's vibrant nightlife scene. The city offers a wide range of entertainment options, from live music to DJ sets.
Attractions in Itinerary (6)
1Hohensalzburg Fortress
One of the largest and best preserved medieval castles in Europe, offering panoramic views of Salzburg.
2Mirabell Gardens and Palace
A historic site featuring a beautiful palace and gardens, known for its stunning Baroque architecture and cultural significance.
3Old Town
A historic neighborhood with baroque architecture, shops, and restaurants.
4Salzburg Museum
A museum showcasing the art and culture of Salzburg, featuring a variety of exhibits and collections.
5Salzach River
A river offering boat tours, providing a unique perspective of Salzburg's historic buildings and beautiful landscape.
6Hellbrunn Palace
A 17th-century palace known for its water games, beautiful gardens, and the gazebo from 'The Sound of Music'.
Local Food and Drinks (12)
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
A popular Austrian dish, typically made with veal, that is breaded and fried. It's a must-try for any visitor to Salzburg.
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
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
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
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
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
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
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.
| Date | Day | Holiday 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 |
How to get around
Public Bus
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.
Train
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.
Taxi
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.
Ridesharing
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.
Bicycle
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.
Car Rental
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.
Walk
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.
Boat
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.
Funicular
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.
Important information
Currency€ EUR
Time zoneUTC+1
Driving sideRight
Emergency phone112, 122
Drinking waterYes
Power sockets
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
Underwear (3 pairs)
Socks (3 pairs)
T-shirts (3)
Pants/Jeans (2 pairs)
Sweater or Jacket
Pajamas
Comfortable walking shoes
Swimwear (if planning to swim)
Scarf, gloves and hat (if winter)
Raincoat or umbrella (depending on the season)
Toiletries
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Deodorant
Shampoo and conditioner
Body wash or soap
Razor and shaving cream
Makeup and makeup remover (if applicable)
Hairbrush or comb
Travel-sized first aid kit
Prescription medications (if any)
Sunscreen (if summer)
Travel documents and essentials
Passport/ID
Flight tickets
Hotel booking confirmation
Travel insurance documents
Credit and debit cards
Cash in local currency
Emergency contacts and addresses
Map of Salzburg
Electronics and gadgets
Smartphone
Charger for smartphone
Headphones
Camera (if not using phone camera)
Charger for camera
Universal travel adapter
Portable power bank
Miscellaneous items
Travel pillow
Eye mask and ear plugs
Snacks for the journey
Water bottle
Travel guidebook for Salzburg
Notebook and pen
Reusable shopping bag
Travel-sized laundry detergent
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!
| Month | Hi / 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?
Places near by Salzburg, Austria
Hallstatt
A picturesque village on Lake Hallstatt's western shore in Austria's mountainous Salzkammergut region.
Berchtesgaden National Park
A beautiful national park in the Bavarian Alps offering hiking, boating, and wildlife viewing.
Königssee
A natural lake in the extreme southeast Berchtesgadener Land district of the German state of Bavaria.
Zell am See
An Austrian town on Lake Zell, south of the city of Salzburg. Known for the Zell am See-Kaprun ski resort.
St. Wolfgang
A market town in central Austria, in the Salzkammergut region. Known for its picturesque setting and the iconic White Horse Inn.
Vienna
Austria's capital, known for its Imperial palaces, including Schönbrunn, the Habsburgs’ summer residence.
Munich
Bavaria’s capital, is home to centuries-old buildings and numerous museums.
Innsbruck
City in the Alps known for its Imperial and modern architecture.
Graz
Austrian city known for its well-preserved Old Town.
Prague
Capital city of the Czech Republic, known for its Old Town Square, colorful baroque buildings, Gothic churches and the medieval Astronomical Clock.
