7 days in Salzburg, Austria: What to see, eat and do. Full city guide
Salzburg, a city filled with Baroque architecture, magnificent churches, and the melodious echoes of Mozart, garners visitors’ attention with its scenic beauty and rich cultural heritage. This Austrian gem is not only the birthplace of Mozart but also home to the enticing Mirabell Palace and Gardens, the picturesque Hohensalzburg Fortress atop its hill, and the timeless charm of the Old Town. A visit to Salzburg is like stepping into a classical European fairytale, where every corner has a story to tell.
Things to consider before arriving in Salzburg
Rich in history and culture
Tantalizing Austrian cuisine awaits
May be crowded during peak tourist season
Salzburg is perfect for history buffs, music lovers, and those looking for an idyllic European getaway with a touch of charm.
What to bring with you
When packing for your Salzburg adventure, do not forget to include:
1. Comfortable walking shoes for exploring the city on foot
2. An umbrella or raincoat for the occasional rain showers
3. Clothing suitable for the season
Best time of the year to visit
The ideal time to visit Salzburg is from April to October when the weather is pleasant, and outdoor events are aplenty. However, if you’re enchanted by the snow-laden landscapes of Austria, December to February offers a magical winter wonderland experience.
How to get into the city
1. By plane: Salzburg’s W. A. Mozart Airport (SZG) is just 4 km from the city center and connects to various European cities. From the airport, you can take a taxi, bus, or rent a car to get to your destination.
2. By train: Salzburg Hauptbahnhof, the main train station, connects the city to various international and domestic destinations. The station is a short walk away from the Old Town or can be easily reached by taxis and buses.
3. By car: If you’re coming from neighboring countries or cities, driving into Salzburg via well-maintained highways like the A1 (from Vienna) or A8 (from Germany) can be an enjoyable experience – just remember Salzburg is part of Austria’s vignette toll system.
7 day city guide trip to Salzburg, Austria
Day 1: Arrival and Exploring the Old Town
After checking into our hotel, let’s head to the Altstadt (Old Town) and start our adventure at the Mirabell Palace and Gardens. From there, we’ll walk along the Getreidegasse, a bustling shopping street with narrow alleyways that Mozart once called home. Don’t forget to stop by the Mozart Birthplace museum. End the day at Augustiner Bräustübl, a traditional beer hall with a charming outdoor garden.
Day 2: Fortress Hohensalzburg and Local Food Tasting
Take a funicular up to the top of Hohensalzburg Fortress and enjoy the panoramic views of the city. Afterward, we’ll explore the St. Peter’s Abbey and Cemetery before heading to Sternbräu, a cozy restaurant that serves traditional Austrian cuisine such as Wiener Schnitzel and Sachertorte.
Day 3: Day Trip to Hallstatt
Let’s take a day trip to the picturesque village of Hallstatt, known for its salt mines, breathtaking views, and charming 16th-century houses. Don’t miss the chance to take a boat ride on the serene Hallstätter See.
Day 4: Visit Salzkammergut Region and Lakes
Drive through the Salzkammergut region, known for its stunning alpine scenery and crystal-clear lakes, stopping at Fuschlsee and Wolfgangsee. We’ll have our lunch at a local restaurant that specializes in trout, a regional specialty.
Day 5: Sound of Music Tour and Baroque Churches
Today is all about music and culture! We’ll start the day with a Sound of Music tour and visit the filming locations of the iconic movie. In the afternoon, we’ll explore the ornate Salzburg Cathedral and the baroque St. Michael’s Church.
Day 6: Day Trip to Berchtesgaden National Park, Germany
Let’s take a day trip to Berchtesgaden National Park, located just across the border in Germany, and visit the breathtaking Königssee, a pristine glacial lake surrounded by towering mountains. We’ll also visit the Eagle’s Nest, a historic site that offers stunning views of the surrounding Alpine landscape.
Day 7: Visit Salzburg’s Museums and Beer Gardens
On our last day, we’ll visit some of Salzburg’s world-class museums such as the Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art or the Natural History Museum. For lunch, we’ll head to the Biergarten am Müllnersteg, a lovely beer garden located by the river, and enjoy some local brews and pub fare.
How to continue your travel after you have spent 7 days in Salzburg
If you’re looking to continue your adventure, two great cities to visit in the area are Vienna and Innsbruck. Vienna is located about 2.5 hours by train and is known for its rich history, elegant architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. Don’t miss the Schönbrunn Palace and the Vienna State Opera.
Innsbruck, located about 2 hours by train, is a charming mountain town that offers excellent skiing, hiking, and sightseeing opportunities. Highlights include the Golden Roof, a landmark structure with copper tiles, and the Imperial Palace.
