Salzburg is one of Austria's most beautiful and historical cities, and a great base for exploring scenic day trips in the surrounding countryside.
Visitors can drive through the beautiful Alpine scenery until they arrive at the most beautiful places in Austria, such as the picturesque village of Hallstatt.
Those who like hiking and walking will definitely enjoy the hiking trails of the Salzkammergut Lake District, Krimml Waterfalls and the impressive gorges of the Weißbach Nature Park.
For the more adventurous, impressive viewing platforms hanging in the air are available, such as 'Stairway to Nothingness' in Ramsau am Dachstein, or 5 Fingers in Krippenstein Obertraun.
Just as exciting are day trips to nearby, maybe not so nearby, but definitely worth-visit cities such as Vienna and Innsbruck.
Moreover, Salzburg offers the ultimate dual-country experience, with its close proximity to Germany's stunning Berchtesgaden region. In just a short journey from Salzburg’s city center, travelers can find themselves deep in the heart of Bavaria and be enthralled by all this beautiful country has to offer!
If you're looking for a unique holiday escape where historic charm meets postcard perfect views and culture-filled cities, then Salzburg could be your perfect destination.
Austria is a magnificent country, and Salzburg leads the way in exploring its beauty. Whether you're looking to climb mountains or tour historic cities, our list of top day trips from "The City of Music" has something for everyone! So come explore Austria's wonders with us - they are truly breathtaking.
1. Hallstatt
Hallstatt is one of those places that words simply cannot do justice—it must be experienced first-hand in order to be fully appreciated.
If you're looking for somewhere special with breathtaking views, fascinating history, and plenty of activities for all ages, then consider planning your day trip to Hallstatt!
Hallstatt is located on the western shore of Lake Hallstatter See in the Salzkammergut region of the country. It sits at an altitude of 511 meters (1,677 feet). The surrounding area includes the Dachstein Mountains, which are part of the Northern Limestone Alps range.
Hallstatt is home to some incredible sights and attractions that make it worth visiting. One of the most popular attractions is St. Michael's Chapel and its Bone House, which dates back to 12th-century and features ornately decorated human skulls.
Another iconic sight is the Hallstatt Salt Mine, a World Heritage Site, which consists of an underground maze of tunnels where salt has been mined since prehistoric times.
Other notable attractions include the Hallstatt Skywalk that offers a “World Heritage Views”, World Heritage Museum and a number of picturesque hiking trails that take visitors through lush forests and past crystal-clear lakes.
Hallstatt can be easily reached by car in just over 1 hour and 20 minutes. Using public transport, the travel time increases to 2 hours and 30 minutes. Best way by public transport: From Salzburg take a bus nr.150 to Bad Ischl, where you can take a train to Hallstatt train station (Hallstatt Bahnhof) and then a regular passenger ship to Hallstatt on the other side of the lake.
Read also: Top Attractions & Things to Do in Hallstatt, Austria
2. Krippenstein Mountain in Obertraun
Looking for a fun and exciting day trip from Salzburg that is sure to be the highlight of your trip? Then definitely put on your list Dachstein Krippenstein mountain in the village of Obertraun, near the picturesque village of Hallstatt. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is filled with attractions for the whole family, offering something special in every season of the year.
One of the main attractions at Dachstein Krippenstein mountain is known as 5 Fingers, a lookout platform perched atop the mountainside.
From the 5 Fingers lookout platform visitors can take in breathtaking views of Hallstatt Lake and across the Salzkammergut region from 2,100 meters above sea level.
The platform consists of five viewing platforms that look like fingers jutting out from a rocky cliff face. It is truly a sight to behold!
This is also an ideal spot for some Instagram-worthy photos if you’re looking for those perfect shots for your feed!
The Dachstein Ice Caves are another must-see attraction at Dachstein Krippenstein mountain. The Dachstein Ice Caves are a naturally formed wonder that has been around for centuries.
Be sure to dress warmly—the temperature inside of the caves can get as low as -2°C!
Visitors are able to explore these caves on guided tours, witnessing their beauty firsthand while learning about their history and formation.
Dachstein Krippenstein mountain in Obertraun offers a unique and exciting day trip from Salzburg that should not be missed!
Not only will you get to experience stunning views from atop 5 Fingers lookout platform and the icy underworld full of amazing formations at the Dachstein Ice Caves, but also explore other of Dachstein Krippenstein mountain's many sights and attractions.
Getting there is the same as Hallstatt, only going one station further to Obertraun-Dachsteinhöhlen (if you use public transport).
Read also: Visit Dachstein Krippenstein in Obertraun, Austria
3. Werfen Ice Caves - Eisriesenwelt & Hohenwerfen Fortress
Werfen Ice Caves, also known as Eisriesenwelt, is a natural ice and limestone cave located in the small village of Werfen, about 50 km south of Salzburg Old Town.
What makes this spectacular cave so unique is that it is the world’s largest ice cave extending more than 42 km into the mountain.
Werfen Ice Caves offers some of the most fascinating natural ice sculptures on the ceilings and walls, making it one of Europe's most breath-taking structures.
The caves can only be visited as part of guided tours by expert guides that provide historical facts about the cave itself.
While inside visitors can expect temperatures around 0° C plus or minus a few degrees depending on outside temperatures and exposure to sunlight; therefore, additional warm clothes are needed because the caves are usually quite cold!
Hohenwerfen Fortress, like the Werfen Ice Caves, is located in Werfen. With a 900-year history, this majestic castle is perched high above the Salzach River, welcoming visitors from all around the world.
At Hohenwerfen Castle, visitors can watch the daily falconry shows and explore the unique Austrian Museum of Falconry.
Events at the castle include theatrical shows, Medieval adventure evenings and folkloric afternoons. Resulting in an absolute magnet for day-trippers and holidaymakers alike!
Other attractions include the mystical night tours! For those looking for something a bit more peaceful, there are fairy-tale hikes in this majestic setting as well.
There is an excellent rail connection between Werfen and Salzburg, you can get there quickly and easily by train from Salzburg in about 50 minutes. The Ice Caves and Hohenwerfen Castle is open daily from late April until late October, so plan ahead so you don't miss out on exploring this day trip destination!
Read also: 19 Top Places to Visit in Austria
4. Grossglockner High Alpine Road
Embark on a day trip from Salzburg and explore the Grossglockner High Alpine Road, situated in the glorious High Tauern National Park.
The majestic 48 kilometer road is full of winding turns and ascents up to 2,500 m of altitude. On this day-long journey you will be treated to some of Austria's most spectacular sights including the highest mountain in the country, the Grossglockner.
Independent travelers can take their time meandering through 36 bends and appreciate the varied landscapes of green pastures, snow-covered mountains peaks, crashing waterfalls, colorful blooms and glaciers.
The focus of the Grossglockner High Alpine Road is not on arriving at the destination, but on the journey and the experiences you will have along the way.
The Grossglockner High Alpine Road begins in Fusch, which is very close to Zell am See, about a 90-minute drive south of Salzburg.
Before you go there, be sure to follow the weather forecast so that there is no rain and fog and other unsuitable conditions that make driving and enjoying the views difficult.
The magical road is accessible for visitors from early May until the beginning of November each year and includes the entrance fee - 40 euro day ticket for a passenger car. (as of 2023)
Read also: Holidays at Lake Zell in Austria
5. Krimml Waterfalls
Krimml waterfall is located in Hohe Tauern National Park, about 155 km away from Salzburg, making it an amazing destination for a day trip.
The Krimml waterfall is among the top 10 most visited places in Austria, as well as with the three cascading levels and a total height of 380m, the Krimml Waterfalls are one of the highest in Europe.
Visitors can wander through the path leading to the waterfall's cascades and admire views of the mesmerizing surrounding landscape filled with lush green forests and high mountains.
The paths then lead up to an observation platform where you can stand in the mist produced by tumbling waters. This provides you with an unforgettable experience and a totally different perspective of this natural wonder!
It’s said that up to 130,000 liters of cascading water thunder down every second during peak flow!
In addition to the waterfalls, water-related activities for the whole family are provided by Krimml Worlds of Water.
Unfortunately, Krimml Waterfall is open to the public from mid-April to the end of October. The best way to get there is by car in about 2 hours.
Read also: Top Attractions & things to do in Salzburg, Austria
6. Hallein
If you’re looking for a day trip with plenty of culture and history, then look no further than Hallein.
Located just 18 km south of Salzburg, this small town packs in a heck of a lot of history.
From the Hallein Salt Mine, or Salzwelten, to the Keltenmuseum and the Silent Night Museum, there’s something here for everyone.
The very first stop on your day trip should be the Hallein Salt Mine. This salt mine has been in operation for 2600 years and is popular among travelers due to its unique history and stunning underground caverns.
Take a tour of the mine and go deep inside where miners used to dig for salt. You can also take part in activities such as zip lining or rafting underground!
Next up is the Keltenmuseum or Celtic Museum (one of the largest museums for Celtic history and art in Europe) which presents fascinating narratives describing the early Celtic cultures and the development of salt mining as well as prehistoric artifacts.
Located right next to the river, this museum offers an insight into how these ancient civilizations lived their lives thousands of years ago. Be sure to check out some of their interactive exhibits too!
Finally, no visit to Hallein would be complete without stopping by the Silent Night Museum next to the parish church.
Here you’ll find information relating to one of the 19th century's most famous Christmas songs—“Silent Night! Holy Night!"—which was composed in nearby Oberndorf in 1818 by local schoolteacher Franz Xaver Gruber.
Hallein may be small but it packs a punch when it comes to historic attractions and cultural experiences that are sure to make your day trip worthwhile.
Get to Hallein in just 15 minutes by train; in less than 30 minutes using the 160 bus line from Salzburg Mirabellplatz to Stadtbrücke Hallein; or by car in about 15 minutes.
Read also: 13 Must-See Lakes in Austria
7. Salzkammergut Lake District
Have you ever felt like you wanted to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and explore a breathtaking natural wonder?
If so, then the Salzkammergut Lake District is perfect as a day trip destination for you, maybe even multiple day trips, because there are several lakes and each one is just so stunning that you can definitely spend a day around each one.
Located in Austria, this picturesque region is filled with crystal clear lakes, majestic mountains, and lush forests that make it an ideal spot to spend your vacation.
One of the most popular destinations in Salzkammergut is Attersee. It is especially popular with sailors, kite surfers and surfers throughout the spring, summer and autumn thanks to the winds that are there independently, providing perfect conditions for these water activities.
The lake itself is incredibly beautiful, with its deep blue waters reflecting the surrounding mountains and forests.
Visitors can enjoy swimming and boat rides on Attersee as well as hiking along its banks.
There are also many small villages located around Attersee that offer a variety of activities such as fishing, cycling, golfing and more.
The next one is definitely Mondsee lake, known in English as the 'Moon Lake', is one of the warmest lakes in the Salzkammergut region and boasts a water temperature of up to 27°C during summer months.
Its wide range of activities and stunning landmarks have made it a popular destination for tourists who are looking to experience something unique.
Adventure seekers can find plenty of thrills with sailing, surfing and kitesurfing, while those looking for sightseeing can dip into some culture by visiting the Mondsee Basilica, which was famously featured in The Sound of Music.
Lastly, the majestic views provided by Drachenwand (Dragon Wall) offer endless opportunities such as hiking, climbing and even BASE jumping for more experienced travelers.
Another popular destination within Salzkammergut is Wolfgangsee. This lake is especially picturesque due to its bright turquoise color which makes it appear almost tropical-like in contrast to its lush green surroundings.
Aside from swimming and boating activities, visitors can also enjoy sailing or relaxing on one of the many beaches located around Wolfgangsee.
St. Gilgen town on the Wolfgangsee shores offers plenty of shopping opportunities as well as restaurants that serve traditional Austrian cuisine.
On the other hand, St. Wolfgang with its Schafbergbahn (Austria's steepest cog railway) offers a stunning adventure and views from the top of the mountain to the lake.
Last but certainly not least is Traunsee—the deepest lake in Salzkammergut and home to some of its most stunning views!
This lake features crystal clear waters surrounded by towering mountains which make it a great spot for scenic hikes or leisurely walks around the shoreline.
Visitors can also take part in numerous water sports such as windsurfing or paddle boarding on Traunsee or visit one of its many castles for an unforgettable experience, for example, Schloss Ort, which is located on its own island in a lake near Gmunden.
The best way to travel around the lakes is by car, this will allow you to stop at places that appeal to you and also allow you to explore as much as possible.
But you can still use the buses that run from Salzburg to the towns on the shores of the lake, and the ferry between the towns and villages around the lakes.
The best time to visit the Salzkammergut Lake District is during the warm months of the year, unless your trip is aimed at winter activities.
In that case, ski tracks and snowshoe trails are available around the lakes.
However, ice skating is not possible on these lakes, because they freeze very rarely or even never.
Read also: Visit Salzkammergut Lake District, Austria
8. Hellbrunn Palace and Gardens
Nestled about 5 kilometers south away from Salzburg historic center lies the Baroque palace of Hellbrunn.
This pleasure palace was built during the 17th century for Princes-Archbishops and is now a great day trip for travelers wanting to explore all that Salzburg has to offer.
The Hellbrunn Palace Gardens are some of the most beautiful gardens in Austria, full of vibrant colors and lush vegetation that will make your jaw drop.
Take some time to explore the secret trick fountains—they’re sure to be a highlight of your trip!
If you’re looking for more historical sites, then take a look at the Music pavilion where scenes from The Sound of Music were filmed.
There’s also the Folklore Museum located just up the hill—it displays traditional costumes, furniture, tools, and instruments from Salzburg, providing an interesting look into Salzburg's history and culture.
For those who prefer animals over history, visit Salzburg Zoo Hellbrunn which is just 1 kilometer away from Hellbrunn Palace—it contains over 1500 animals from all around the World!
During the advent season (late November - to Christmas), thousands of lights light up around the palace giving it an ethereal winter wonderland vibe that will make you feel like you stepped into another world entirely!
Hellbrunn Palace has so much to do and see that it's such a popular day trip destination for people visiting Salzburg and beyond!
Hellbrunn Palace is easily accessible from the center of Salzburg or from the station by bus line 25, by boat cruises, by car and even by bike. Note that the castle itself, the trick fountains and the Folklore Museum are closed during the winter months.
Read also: 12 must-see alps villages in Austria
9. Berchtesgaden, Germany
Nestled in the foothills of the Bavarian Alps, Berchtesgaden is an idyllic town with a rich history and stunning natural beauty.
Located just a short distance away from Salzburg, it’s easy to make a day trip out of visiting this unique destination.
Whether you’re interested in exploring its colorful old town or taking in the sights of Eagle's Nest and King’s Lake, here are some of the top attractions that you won’t want to miss when visiting Berchtesgaden.
Berchtesgaden Old Town: The old part of town is located at the base of the Watzmann Mountain, and it’s easy to see why it was chosen as one of Germany’s most beautiful places.
Here, visitors will find quaint cobblestone streets lined with centuries-old buildings housing galleries, cafes, and shops selling traditional Bavarian goods.
There are also a number of historic churches to explore such as Stiftskirche and Bergkirche which date back to the 13th century.
For those looking for an educational experience while they’re in town, be sure to visit the oldest salt mine in Germany – Berchtesgaden Salt Mine (Salzbergwerk Berchtesgaden Alpen).
Here visitors will learn about the fascinating history behind salt mining in this area as well as enjoy dramatic underground chambers filled with sculptures made from salt blocks!
On certain days, visitors can even take part in an interactive tour where they get dressed up like miners and explore deeper into the mine shafts!
One of the most popular tourist destinations in Berchtesgaden is Eagle's Nest (Kehlsteinhaus).
This iconic mountain-top retreat was built by Adolf Hitler as a gift for his 50th birthday but now serves as a restaurant with incredible views overlooking Berchtesgaden National Park.
Visitors can take a guided tour or ride up on their own via bus or car up to reach this incredible spot.
Just outside of town lies Königssee or King’s Lake – one of Germany’s most beautiful bodies of water. Here visitors can take boat rides across its crystal clear waters past stunning mountain peaks before arriving at St. Bartholomew Church which is tucked away on one side of its shoreline.
If you have time afterwards be sure to wander around nearby Obersee Lake – perfect for hikers, photographers and for those enjoying views!
Berchtesgaden can be reached very quickly and easily from Salzburg by car or by Watzmann Express bus no. 840, in about 35 minutes.
And Lovely Terra recommends spending more than one day there, as its surroundings are stunning and offer much more than previously mentioned.
Read also: Attractions and Things to Do in Berchtesgaden, Germany
10. Weißbach Nature Park
If you're looking for the perfect day trip close to Salzburg, the Weißbach Nature Park should be on your list.
It is located about 60 kilometers from Salzburg and is a hiker's paradise that offers a wide range of hikes, through mountains, meadows, forests and gorges, offering wonderful views and experiences.
Opened to the public in 1882, this park is one of the coolest conservation areas in Austria and has some special places for everyone to experience, known as “Saalachtal Natural Wonders”.
The first of the most impressive Wonders in the park is the 2.5 kilometer long Vorderkaser Gorge (Vorderkaserklamm).
This huge gorge is full of lush vegetation and impressive features like thunderous waterfalls, natural pools, and 80 meter towering bizarrely shaped rock formations.
You can explore it via a network of trails that run through it; there are many bridges that allow you to cross over streams and pathways for climbing up rocky slopes.
The entire area is teeming with wildlife, so keep your eyes peeled if you want to spot any animals!
Another highlight of the Weißbach Nature Park is the Seisenberg Gorge (Seisenbergklamm), a 600-meter-long, stunning gorge that was formed around 12,000 years ago.
It winds through breathtaking narrow rock walls on well-developed boardwalks. Here you can find huge hidden caves, crystal clear water of the river, and unique species of plants and animals.
You should allow at least one hour to walk through this stunning gorge, which was declared a natural monument by the state of Salzburg in 1974.
Next is the Lamprechts Cave (Lamprechtshöhle), a must-see in the Weißbach Nature Park. With a depth of 1632 m, it is one of the deepest natural caves in the world. And, the length of 61 kilometers makes it one of the largest cave systems in all of Europe.
Impressive, right? Although only 700 meters of this spectacular show cave is open to visitors, it is well worth exploring.
The show cave area is well developed with footpaths and lighting, allowing you to overcome a height difference of 70 m via 392 steps. Go all the way to the platform from which you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the depths of the Lamprechts cave.
The Lamprechts Cave itself has incredible rock formations, stalactites and stalagmites, as well as interesting geological features such as fossils embedded in limestone deposits.
Guided tours are also available for those who want to learn more about this fascinating underground world.
Weißbach Nature Park is located in Weißbach bei Lofer, about an hour's drive from Salzburg by car. You can also reach it by train from Salzburg to Saalfelden, in about 2 hours, from where you need to take a bus to the Weißbach bei Lofer.
Each of these wonders has an entrance fee, but you can visit all 3 wonders together with a combined ticket for €17.00 for an adult and €10.50 for a child. Warm clothing is highly recommended for visiting Lamprechts Cave. All three wonders are closed to visitors between late October and early May.
Read also: Places to visit near Innsbruck, Austria
11. Untersberg Mountain
Nestled between Berchtesgaden/Germany and Salzburg/Austria, Untersberg Mountain is a beautiful place that’s perfect for an outdoor adventure.
At Salzburg's Hochtron peak (1,853 meters above sea level ) was even filmed the most iconic scenes for the well-known movie “The Sound of Music”.
During the summer months, visitors can take advantage of numerous hiking trails and biking routes as well as paragliding tandem flights and ice cave tours through Schellenberger Eishöhle - Germany's largest ice cave!
The mountain also offers winter activities such as snowshoe hikes, snowboarding and skiing with a 7.5 km long valley run.
Travelers can get to the mountain with a cable car leading up to Geiereck station at 1,776 meters above sea level offering stunning 360° views.
The cable car station located in Gartenau is only a 10-kilometer drive away from the historic center of Salzburg making it an easily accessible day trip destination.
So whether you’re planning to explore Untersberg during the summer or winter months, this beautiful mountain offers something for everyone in every season!
Read also: Top Attractions & things to do in Salzburg, Austria
12. Ramsau am Dachstein
Located about 86 kilometers from Salzburg between the majestic Dachstein Mountains, Ramsau am Dachstein is an ideal day trip (or two day) destination.
This stunning Alpine village offers breathtaking mountain views, lush forests, tranquil meadows and plenty of outdoor activities, whether you're looking for an active adventure or just want to enjoy the beautiful scenery, Ramsau am Dachstein is sure to please.
The area is especially known as a ski resort that offers plenty of winter sport activities like, cross-country skiing with more than 220 km trails, tobogganing, snowshoeing, and plenty of skiing slopes which range in difficulty from beginner-friendly to more challenging routes.
Furthermore, the skiing season never ends in the Dachstein Mountains - the Dachstein glacier, located more than 2,700 meters above sea level, offers 18 kilometers of well-maintained glacier trails even in summer.
In the summer months, there are many hiking trails that provide breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. There are also many opportunities for rock climbing, Via Ferratas, and paragliding.
Take the challenge and ascend to soaring heights! Explore Hoher Dachstein, Styria’s highest peak at 2,996 meters with a thrilling adventure that offers breathtaking views.
Follow a path of adventure and explore the fantastic heights of Austria with an excursion to Dachstein Suspension Bridge.
Revel in the awe-inspiring panoramas while standing atop its vertigo-inducing Skywalk observation deck, or take that extra step into wide open space on their daring glass staircase known as 'Stairway to Nothingness'.
The area is also home to some unique attractions such as the Dachstein Ice Palace that can be explored year-round.
If exploring outdoors isn’t your thing, then why not spend some time relaxing at one of Ramsau am Dachstein’s cozy cafes or restaurants?
Here you can enjoy traditional Austrian cuisine while admiring the stunning views of snow-capped peaks and lush green forests that surround the town.
The best way to get to Ramsau am Dachstein from Salzburg is by car, which takes about an hour. Alternatively, you can travel by train from Salzburg to Graz by getting off at Schladming train station (Schladming Bahnhof), where you can then take bus 960 to Ramsau am Dachstein.
Traveling by train will take approximately 3 hours, recommended for a minimum two day trip. There is also an option by bus, changing them 2 times, which will take more than 3 and a half hours.
Read also: Best Ski Resorts in Austria
13. Vienna
Although Vienna is not that close to Salzburg (300 kilometers away), it should definitely be on your list, and not for a day trip, but at least two.
It is best to go to Vienna early in the morning, stay there overnight and the next day go to Salzburg, where the main holiday location is located.
Thanks to the convenient train service, you can get from Salzburg to Vienna and vice versa by high-speed train in 2.30 hours.
Vienna is a city steeped in history and culture , with many important sights worth visiting; whether it be the magnificent St. Stephen's Cathedral, or the awe-inspiring Vienna Opera House - all of which have been standing strong for centuries!
Visitors can also explore Schonbrunn Palace and Belvedere Palace to discover Europe’s rich tapestry of culture and heritage.
Step back in time and explore the grandeur of Vienna's Hofburg Imperial Palace; home to Sisi Museum, lavish Imperial Apartments, majestic Spanish riding school and breathtaking Austrian National Library.
Vienna is a haven for art aficionados, with a wealth of masterful museums like KunstHausWien and the grandiose Kunsthistorisches Museum.
And if that's not enough to satisfy your creative cravings, take solace in its many stunning galleries such as the Albertina Museum!
Vienna is not only about its cultural attractions; it also has some stunning natural beauty for visitors to enjoy.
The city is home to more than 1,700 parks, including Praterpark, a large public park where travelers can take a ride on the iconic Wiener Riesenrad Ferris wheel, and Stadtpark, one of the city's most popular parks with walking trails.
With its rich history and culture, stunning parks and gardens, and delicious dining options, this is truly one city you shouldn't miss when planning your trip to Austria.
Depending on your preferences and interests, there is so much to see and explore in Vienna that one day may not be enough.
But if you do go for a day, do it as early as possible in the morning so that you can spend at least one full day in the beautiful capital of Austria.
The best way to get there is by high-speed train in just two and a half hours. By car, there will be a longer dependence on traffic, but about an average time of three hours.
Read also: Places to Visit in Vienna
14. Munich, Germany
Munich is filled with countless activities that are sure to keep travelers entertained for hours.
Start your day off by exploring the English Garden—one of the World's largest urban parks, it's even bigger than New York City's Central Park.
Here, you can stroll through lush gardens, take a leisurely boat ride on the lake or watch surfers riding the waves on the Eisbach River.
There are also numerous beer gardens where you can sample some of Bavaria’s most famous beers.
If you’re looking for some culture, head over to Marienplatz—Munich’s main square where old meets new. Here you can find stunning gothic churches and modern glass-and-steel buildings alongside traditional Bavarian restaurants and shops.
The town hall (Labyrinth Rathaus) is particularly impressive; it features a giant clock tower which chimes every hour on the hour!
You can also catch a glimpse of glockenspiel shows at 11 am and 12 pm daily—a must-see for any visitor!
And what's more, if you find yourself in Munich from late September to early October, enjoy the world's largest beer festival known as Oktoberfest.
At the world-famous Oktoberfest, you can not only enjoy beer, but also traditional German cuisine, attractions for both adults and children, music and much more for at least 16 days.
Of course, no visit to Munich would be complete without sampling some of their delicious food. Head over to Viktualienmarkt—an outdoor market located in the heart of Munich since 1807—or try some traditional Bavarian dishes such as Weisswurst (veal sausage), Schweinshaxe (pork knuckle) or Knödel (dumplings).
And don’t forget to wash it all down with an icy cold beer!
Munich is located approximately 150 kilometers from Salzburg. You can get there by car in about an 1hr and 30 min, as well as by train. And by bus in 2hr and 30 min.
Read also: Top Attractions and Things to do in Munich, Germany
15. Innsbruck
If you are visiting Salzburg, why not take a day trip to Innsbruck - Austria's Olympic City?
Innsbruck is a beautiful city located about 170 km from Salzburg.
It is the capital of Tyrol, Austria and has a rich history and culture that makes it an ideal destination for travelers.
Once you arrive in Innsbruck, there are plenty of things to do and see! The city center is home to some beautiful architecture such as the Golden Roof (Goldenes Dachl) that reflects its rich history as the former capital of the Habsburg Empire.
Take some time to wander through the old town and admire the stunning buildings around every corner. For those who want more adventure, head up into the Nordkette mountains for some amazing views of the surrounding area.
There are plenty of hiking trails available for all levels of experience and they offer breathtaking vistas—you won’t want to miss out!
If culture is your thing then be sure to check out Schloss Ambras, one of Innsbruck’s most famous attractions. It was once home to Archduke Ferdinand II and now houses an impressive collection of artifacts from throughout history—a must-see for any traveler!
Afterward, visit Swarovski’s Crystal World for some peaceful relaxation in this lovely place surrounded by sparkling crystals.
Finally, make sure to try some traditional Tyrolean food while you’re there—the dumplings with cheese sauce will definitely hit the spot after a long day exploring!
Innsbruck is easily accessible by train or car from Salzburg. Both routes will take approximately 2 hours. You can also use the bus, which is relatively the cheapest option, but also the longest journey - about 2hr and 30 min.
Read also: Top Attractions & things to do in Innsbruck, Austria
16. Linz
The beautiful city of Linz is located just 133 km away from Salzburg, making it the perfect destination for a day trip.
With its picturesque architecture, numerous parks and gardens, and fascinating attractions, Linz is sure to be an unforgettable experience.
One of the most popular destinations in Linz is its main square, a large public square located in the heart of Linz. Here you will find several historic buildings as well as modern sculptures and monuments. There are also plenty of restaurants and cafes where you can take a break and relax.
The park surrounding Schlossmuseum, an Linzer Schloss Castle turned museum, is another popular spot for sightseeing. In addition to its stunning architecture, it houses an impressive collection of artwork from local and international artists.
The shopping district in the Altstadt (Old Town) area is also worth exploring during your day trip to Linz. Here you will find traditional craft shops as well as trendy boutiques selling all kinds of products ranging from clothing to souvenirs.
There are also plenty of great places to grab a bite like Schillerkeller, which features some delicious regional dishes such as knödel (dumplings).
Or head to the Arkade Shopping Centre that is one of the most popular attractions in Linz. Built in 1996, it's home to over 100 shops and restaurants spread out over three floors.
It's also host to numerous events throughout the year such as concerts, festivals, and exhibitions.
If you're more interested in cultural activities, then head over to Brucknerhaus or Stadttheater – two popular venues that host various performances throughout the year such as operas and concerts by internationally renowned artists!
For those who love nature, there's no better place to spend some time than along the Danube riverfront in Linz. Here you'll find numerous public gardens with lush greenery and colorful flowers that are perfect for taking a stroll or having a picnic lunch.
Linz is very convenient and quick to reach by train from Salzburg, only 1 hour and 20 minutes by car and train, as well as by bus, which is much more convenient in an hour and a half.
Read also: Attractions and things to do in Bad Ischl, Austria
And Finally… Then here it is! 16 beautiful, picturesque and historic places near Salzburg that are perfect for day trips from Salzburg.
By following our guide, respecting the distances and times available to visitors (especially if you travel in the winter months), your trip will turn into an exciting adventure that you will want to repeat again and again.
Have an amazing trip to Salzburg and its surroundings!
