3 Days Salzburg, Austria Itinerary
This 3-day itinerary offers a balanced exploration of Salzburg's historical sites, cultural landmarks, and natural beauty. It includes visits to iconic attractions, opportunities to savor local cuisine, and suggestions for experiencing the city like a local, all within a moderate budget.
Duration
3 days
Budget
$600-900
Best Time
Salzburg offers unique charm year-round
Activities
12
Daily Avg
$250/day
Pace
Moderate
Salzburg is a city steeped in history and culture, famous as the birthplace of Mozart and the setting for 'The Sound of Music'. Its stunning Baroque architecture, picturesque landscapes, and vibrant arts scene make it a captivating destination for all travelers.
Your itinerary covers 6 of 11 must-have experiences
Grand Fortress & City Views
Day 1: Hohensalzburg Fortress
Baroque Old Town Wander
Day 2: Getreidegasse
Mozart's Legacy & Music
Day 2: Mozart's Birthplace
Palatial Gardens & Fairytale Settings
Day 1: Mirabell Gardens
Alpine Peaks & Nature Escapes
e.g., Untersberg (cable car ascent), Mönchsberg (walking trails & viewpoints)
Traditional Austrian Coffee & Cake
e.g., Café Tomaselli (Austria's oldest coffee house), Café Bazar (riverside views)
The Sound of Music Magic
Day 1: Mirabell Gardens
Riverside Strolls & Views
e.g., Salzach River banks (walks), Makartsteg (Love Lock Bridge)
Local Flavors & Markets
e.g., Grünmarkt (University Square market), Schranne Market (seasonal, Thursdays)
Underground & Unique Experiences
e.g., DomQuartier Salzburg (museum complex), Catacombs of St. Peter's Cemetery
Nightlife & Traditional Taverns
Day 1: Lunch at Augustiner Bräustübl
Salzburg's cuisine is a delightful blend of Austrian and Bavarian influences, offering hearty dishes with a touch of elegance. Expect plenty of meat, dumplings, and sweet treats, all made with fresh, local ingredients. Exploring the traditional Gasthofs and Konditoreis is a must for any foodie visiting Salzburg.
Must-Try Dishes
A sweet soufflé-like dumpling shaped like Salzburg's mountains, served warm and dusted with powdered sugar. It's a quintessential Salzburg dessert.
📍 Traditional Austrian restaurants (Gasthofs) like St. Peter Stiftskulinarium or Restaurant Goldener Hirsch
A spicy sausage sandwich, similar to a hot dog but with white bread, onions, curry powder, and mustard or ketchup. It's a popular street food snack.
📍 Balkan Grill Walter (Getreidegasse)
Boiled beef in broth, served with horseradish sauce, creamed spinach, and apple horseradish. A classic Austrian dish.
📍 Traditional Gasthofs like Zwettler's or S'Nockerl im Sternbräu
A platter of cold cuts, cheeses, bread, and spreads, perfect for sharing. It showcases local Austrian products.
📍 Heurigers (wine taverns) outside the city center or Gasthofs
Food Neighborhoods
Known for traditional Austrian restaurants and cafes.
Known for a mix of traditional and modern cuisine.
Known for its high concentration of restaurants and cafes catering to tourists.
Known for more upscale dining options and international cuisine.
Vegetarian options are becoming more common, but vegan options are still limited. Many restaurants can accommodate gluten-free requests. Halal food is less prevalent, but some Turkish and Middle Eastern restaurants offer halal options. Always check with the restaurant beforehand regarding allergies.
It's customary to say 'Mahlzeit' (enjoy your meal) to others when entering or leaving a restaurant. Wait for everyone to be served before starting to eat. Tipping is expected, around 5-10% of the bill.
Vienna Ball Season
Wiener BallsaisonTraditional Viennese ball season with over 450 balls in elegant venues.
Note: Book ball tickets months ahead
🛣️Interesting Detours & Side Trips
- 🚶From your hotel in Altstadt, walk to Mirabell Gardens (approx. 10-15 minutes depending on location).FREE
9:00 AM - Mirabell Gardens
Start your day with a stroll through the stunning Mirabell Gardens, known for their Baroque statues, fountains, and flowerbeds. Don't miss the Pegasus Fountain and the Dwarf Garden. Free entry.
Book on Klook - 🚶From Mirabell Gardens, walk across the Makartsteg bridge to the Altstadt and then to Salzburg Cathedral (approx. 15 minutes).FREE
10:30 AM - Salzburg Cathedral
Visit the magnificent Salzburg Cathedral, a prime example of Baroque architecture. Explore the interior and admire the impressive dome and artwork. Free entry, but donations are appreciated.
Book on Klook - 🚶From Salzburg Cathedral, walk to Augustiner Bräustübl (approx. 10 minutes).$15-20
12:00 PM - Lunch at Augustiner Bräustübl
Enjoy a traditional Austrian lunch at Augustiner Bräustübl, a beer garden with a lively atmosphere. Sample local beers and hearty dishes like schnitzel or sausages. Budget around $15-20.
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- 🚶From Augustiner Bräustübl, take bus line 1 or 28 to Hohensalzburg Fortress funicular station (approx. 15 minutes).$18
2:00 PM - Hohensalzburg Fortress
Take the funicular up to Hohensalzburg Fortress, a medieval castle offering panoramic views of Salzburg. Explore the fortress's museums, towers, and courtyards. Ticket price is around $18.
Book on Klook
Altstadt (Old Town)
The Altstadt is the heart of Salzburg, offering easy access to major attractions, restaurants, and shops. It's perfect for first-time visitors.
📅 Best Time to Visit
Salzburg offers unique charm year-round. Spring (April-May) and Autumn (September-October) are ideal for mild weather, fewer crowds, and vibrant scenery. Summers (June-August) are warm, perfect for outdoor activities and the renowned Salzburg Festival, but attract peak tourist numbers and higher prices. Winters (November-March) are cold and snowy, creating a magical atmosphere for Christmas markets and winter sports nearby, though some attractions might have reduced hours.
The weather in Salzburg during the shoulder season is generally mild and comfortable. Expect sunny days with occasional rain showers. Temperatures are cooler than summer, making it ideal for exploring the city on foot.
Shoulder season in Salzburg (April-May & September-October) offers pleasant weather, fewer crowds compared to summer, and beautiful scenery.
Check for public holidays as some businesses may have reduced hours or be closed.
Getting Around
Vienna has excellent U-Bahn; ÖBB trains connect cities
Wiener Linien pass (Vienna)
Get a 24/72-hour Vienna pass for unlimited transit. Book ÖBB Sparschiene tickets for cheap fares.
Travel
$150-250 (depending on origin and transportation)Accommodation
$200-300 (for 3 nights in a budget-friendly hotel or Airbnb)Food
$150-200Activities
$100-150Utilize the Salzburg Card: It's excellent value for money, covering public transport and entry to most major attractions. Compare costs versus individual tickets for your planned itinerary.
Enjoy 'Jause' (snack/light meal) from local bakeries or supermarkets: Buy sandwiches, pastries, and drinks from Billa, Spar, or Hofer for budget-friendly meals, especially for lunch or picnics.
Attend a classical concert or 'Dinner & Mozart' performance: Treat yourself to a quintessential Salzburg experience, often featuring traditional Austrian cuisine and live classical music.
Dine with a view at the Fortress Hohensalzburg or Restaurant Mönchsberg: Enjoy exquisite Austrian cuisine combined with breathtaking panoramic views of the city.
Look for 'Mittagsmenü': Many restaurants offer a cheaper 'lunch menu' or 'business lunch' during weekdays, providing a great way to try local cuisine at a fraction of the dinner price.
Explore the less-traveled paths: While the Old Town is stunning, wander into districts like Nonntal or take a walk up Mönchsberg for beautiful views and a quieter atmosphere away from the main tourist crowds, often for free.
- **Embrace Public Transport & Walking:** Salzburg's Old Town is best explored on foot, and the city has an efficient bus network. Consider the Salzburg Card for unlimited public transport and free entry to many attractions.
- **Learn Basic German Phrases:** While English is widely spoken in tourist areas, knowing a few German phrases like 'Guten Tag' (Good day), 'Danke' (Thank you), and 'Bitte' (Please/You're welcome) is appreciated.
- **Carry Cash & Card:** Euros (€) are the currency. Major credit cards are widely accepted, but it's wise to have some cash for smaller cafes, market stalls, or unexpected situations.
- **Tipping Etiquette:** Tipping is customary in restaurants, cafes, and for taxis. A general rule is to round up the bill or add 5-10% for good service.
- **Respect Quiet Hours:** Austrians value quiet, especially during Sundays and late evenings. Be mindful of noise levels in residential areas and accommodations.
- **Check Opening Hours:** Many shops, especially outside the main tourist areas, close early on Saturdays and are closed on Sundays. Museums and attractions also have varying hours.
- **Hydrate with Tap Water:** Austrian tap water is safe and delicious. Carry a reusable water bottle to refill and stay hydrated.
- 1**Comfortable Walking Shoes:** Essential for exploring the cobblestone streets, hills, and numerous attractions on foot.
- 2**Layered Clothing:** Salzburg's weather can change quickly. Pack versatile layers that can be added or removed.
- 3**Waterproof Jacket or Umbrella:** Rain showers are possible year-round, so be prepared.
- 4**Travel Adapter (Type F / Schuko):** For European outlets (two-round-pin plug).
- 5**Reusable Water Bottle:** To stay hydrated with the excellent local tap water.
- 6**Small Daypack:** For carrying essentials like water, snacks, camera, and extra layers during daily excursions.
- 7**Dressier Outfit (Optional):** If planning to attend a classical concert or dine at a fine restaurant, especially during the Salzburg Festival.
- 8**Warm Hat, Gloves, Scarf:** Crucial for colder months (late autumn to early spring) and enjoying winter activities.
- 9**Sunscreen and Sunglasses:** Even on cloudy days or in winter, sun protection is advisable, especially if you're out for extended periods.
- 10**Camera:** To capture the stunning alpine scenery and baroque architecture.
Flights or Train Tickets
Book 3-6 months in advance for best prices, especially during peak seasons (summer festival, Christmas).
Accommodation
Secure accommodation 4-6 months ahead, particularly if traveling during the Salzburg Festival (July/August) or Christmas markets (December) as availability becomes scarce and prices rise.
Salzburg Card
Consider purchasing in advance online or upon arrival. It offers free public transport and entry to most attractions, providing excellent value for 24, 48, or 72 hours.
Salzburg Festival Tickets
If attending, tickets go on sale months in advance (often the previous autumn) and sell out very quickly due to high demand.
Popular Tours (e.g., Sound of Music, Eagle's Nest)
Book these 2-4 weeks in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure your preferred date and time.
Travel Insurance
Always recommended to cover unforeseen circumstances like trip cancellations, medical emergencies, or lost luggage.
Visa Requirements
Check well in advance if your nationality requires a Schengen visa for Austria and apply according to the guidelines.
Note: Travel conditions, regulations, and local customs may change. We recommend verifying essential details — such as visa requirements, emergency contacts, and payment options — closer to your travel date.
SIM & Connectivity
SIM Options
📍 Airalo app or website
📍 A1 stores in Salzburg (e.g., Getreidegasse)
📍 Magenta stores in Salzburg (e.g., near the train station)
📍 Online order with delivery to your hotel or pickup at the airport (Vienna - transfer required)
Free WiFi is widely available in hotels, cafes, and restaurants throughout Salzburg. The city also offers free WiFi hotspots in some public areas, though the connection may be unreliable. Check for 'Free WiFi' signs.
Useful Apps
Consider purchasing an eSIM before your trip for easy activation upon arrival. Check if your hotel offers free WiFi and its quality. Download offline maps on Google Maps to save data. Purchasing a local SIM card is generally cheaper than roaming with your home provider.
Electric Socket Guide
Socket Types
Two round pins (Europlug)
Two round pins + side earth clips (Schuko)
230V
50Hz
Tipping Etiquette
5–10% or round up
Round up or 10%
€1–2 per bag
Say the total (including tip) when paying — don't leave tip on the table.
Safety & Travel Advisories
Salzburg is generally a safe city. Exercise normal precautions against petty theft, especially in crowded tourist areas.
Check official government advisories for the latest safety information, entry requirements, and travel warnings before your trip.
Emergency Numbers
133
144
122
112 for European emergency number
Payments
Austria is more cash-friendly than many EU countries
Accepted at most places but cash still common
Available at larger establishments
Carry cash — many traditional restaurants and heurigers prefer it.
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How was this itinerary?
The best time to visit Salzburg is during the shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October) for pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Summer is great for outdoor activities but can be crowded and expensive. Winter offers a magical Christmas market atmosphere.
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