Exploring Mozart’s Salzburg in 2 Days: The Complete Itinerary

traveller Sana

Salzburg 2 day itinerary will help you discover the best places in Salzburg within 48 hours. This includes some of Europe’s best-preserved baroque churches, splendid gardens, medieval fortresses, etc. 

An ideal Salzburg 2 day itinerary needs to be planned in a way that you make the best of your time in this Mozart’s musical town. A lot of travelers visiting Europe intend to cover maximum places in minimum time.

So, it’s quite probable that you’d like to cover Salzburg in not more than 2 days. Therefore, it is important to create a travel-friendly Salzburg 2 day itinerary. Also, if you plan it well in advance, you could be in the city for one of its many cultural events.

Salzburg 2 day itinerary

Salzburg – Mozart’s home welcomes you with a warm embrace. It feels as if you are one of the city’s own. The region takes you back to simpler times. A quaint city residing in the bosom of picturesque hills, its effervescent beauty makes you feel like you’re part of a highly thought out movie set. Plan your trip methodically, and you’ll see that good planning overrides time constraints.

Salzburg Two Day Itinerary

The ideal Salzburg 2 day itinerary should cover all the must-visit destinations and eating places. A reasonable way to do it is by dividing both the days in 3 slots – morning, noon and evening.

As per the ideal Salzburg 2 day itinerary, it’s better to start with locations of Old Town. All the major attractions in the Old town are close to each other.

Therefore, it’s best to explore the area on foot.

Day 1 in Salzburg

Morning

Have an early breakfast and head out to Mirabell Gardens.

Spend some time there and move to Mozart’s Residence. It is just a lane away.

Next, visit Makartsteg and finally Linzergasse.

Noon

Take a break and savour lunch at a nearby restaurant. There are many eating places in the vicinity of Linzergasse.

After enjoying lunch, head to Hohensalzburg Fortress.

Evening

The last destination of the day should be Hellbrunn Palace. Stop by, and explore the palace and its many intricacies.

Have dinner at a good eatery and call it a day.

If you start early in the morning, you will be able to explore a lot of places in the beautiful city of Salzburg.


Day 2 in Salzburg

Morning

Have an early breakfast and head out to take the lovely ‘Sound of Music Tour.’ Move around the sets of this classic movie.

This will take some time, but will be totally worth it.

Noon

Go to a nice eatery and have a mouthful of lunch. You will need the energy for your next destination – Eagle’s Nest (Kehlsteinhaus).

This place will require a decent amount of time. This is because its far from the rest of the locations.

Evening

Visit the Augustiner Braustübel Brewery. It’ll make for a fun way to end your day. It is an old Augustinian monastery turned brewery.

Head out and have dinner.

The second day of your Salzburg two day itinerary will be more hectic than day one. Reason being the distance of certain locations from the main city.

salzburg 2 day itinerary

This is a picture of Salzburg during the winter season. The city sparkles in shimmery glaze on untouched snow. The entire scene is beautiful. If you have an affinity with snow, plan a visit to Salzburg during winters. It is cold but totally worth the beauty. 

Which Locations on the Salzburg 2 Day Itinerary are Free to Visit?

There are a lot of free things to do in Salzburg if you procure a special card. It is known as the Salzburg Card and is inclusive for various locations. 

The locations under the Salzburg 2 day itinerary, where entry is free if you own the Salzburg card are as follows:

Mozart Residence
Hohensalzburg Fortress
Hellbrunn Palace

Note: Buy the Salzburg card only if you want to explore more places. Else, it’ll prove expensive.

Benefits of the Salzburg Card

Salzburg Card ensures you free entry to various places. It even helps one travel for free within the boundaries of Salzburg.

It offers you huge discounts on certain cultural events and concerts. Lastly, it provides express entrance without having to stand in line at the ticket counter.

The card is available for a duration of 24, 48 and 72 hours.

An Introduction to Places Mentioned in Salzburg 2 Day Itinerary 

Let us now read about all the places mentioned in the Salzburg 2 day itinerary. The explicit details will help you connect with the place well as a first timer.

Mirabell Gardens

Situated in the epicenter of the town, Mirabell Gardens should be the first place on your Salzburg 2 day itinerary.

These gardens have a soul pleasing arrangement of a myriad of flower species in an ocean of colours.

Mirabell Palace Salzburg

The picturesque Mirabell Gardens of Salzburg. The word ‘Mirabell’ is a compilation of two words from the Italian language – mirabile meaning “admirable” and bella meaning “beautiful.” These gardens are open through the week and entrance is free.

To stand in the exact place where the momentous scenes of “Do-Re-Mi” were shot in Sound of Music, make you nostalgic and want to you to shake a leg as a tribute.

Timings

8 am – 6 pm

Entrance Fees

Free

Mozart’s Residence

Mozart’s Residence is the next place to visit as per a good Salzburg 2 day itinerary. It is just is a lane away from the Mirabell Garden.

Mozart’s residence has been converted into a museum. It displays all the relics used by the great Bard himself. Fans of his work will have a waltzing time in this shrine.

Timings

9 am – 5:30 pm

Entrance fees

Adults – € 4.00

Children – € 3.50 

Salzburg 2 day itinerary

This is the birthplace of the legend – Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. Located near Mirabell garden, this house is special for Mozart’s fans and so, it always draws special attention. Your trip to Salzburg isn’t complete without paying homage to this maestro.

Makartsteg

A little way down the road, you start hearing the sound of flowing water gently caressing the rocks as it flows over them. This is when you know you’re close to Makartsteg – the bridge of love.

This should be the third place on your Salzburg 2 day itinerary. The bridge on the river Salzach is lively with fresh air and pretty locks.

The view from the bridge is beautiful. With mountains visible as far as you can see and a magnificent archaic church to one side, this view is what makes paintings worth millions.

This bridge is on the way to the following attraction and hence, does not set you off your sightseeing schedule as well.

Salzburg 2 day itinerary

Hundreds of couples put locks on Makartsteg every day to mark their undying affection for each other. There are so many locks here that the Makartsteg is known as the Bridge of love now. Furthermore, the bridge is also home to fantastic city views!

Linzergasse

Don’t we all love pedestrian streets in beautiful old-world towns? Well, Linzergasse in one such place. 

This street is just a short walk from the lock bridge. It is a time machine and should be the fourth place on your Salzburg 2 day itinerary. It houses all the best eateries and shopping havens while decorated in Baroque architecture.

Also, make sure to mot miss Mozart’s birthplace (Geburtshaus) that is conspicuously located on this street. This house looks like sunflowers were let loose on this building to celebrate the birth of the Maestro.

Salzburg 2 day itinerary

The ride to Hohensalzburg Fortess could have not been more fun. Imagine riding a cliff on a fun ride. The FestungsBahn is a modern funicular that transports you to one of the most popular sightseeing attraction in Salzburg – Hohensalzburg.

Hohensalzburg Fortress 

The funicular ride to the Hohensalzburg Fortress is an adventure on the Salzburg 2 day itinerary.

If you’ve dreamt of going up the Eiffel to just get a glance of the entire Parisian beauty, I insist you move on and dream of Salzburg.

The Fortress has a view so pure, so untouched, that you can’t help but want to stop time to admire it.

It gives you a sense of serenity. A mild wind blowing, along with the view, is just the lullaby you need to transport you into a world with no problems. A mind space wherein only peace resides.

Timings

9:30 am – 5 pm

Entrance fees

€11.90 (All-inclusive)

Hohensalzburg Fortress

Hohensalzburg Fortress has a view so beautiful that you can’t help but want to stop time to admire it. It is the largest fully-preserved castle in Central Europe, and that’s a matter of sheer pride for Austrians. You’ll see that this fort is a true eye-catcher.

Hellbrunn Palace 

It may seem like Austria has only palaces to offer, but don’t be mislead by this thought.

The Hellbrunn Palace has its mischievous secrets that are waiting to be discovered.

The fountains of the palace may seem like an architectural jewel at first but this is just a facade. There’s much more to explore.

Timings

9 am – 4:30 pm

(The closing time might vary in different seasons)

Entrance fees

Adults – € 12.50 each Children – € 5.50 each

The Sound of Music Tour

The Salzburg 2 day itinerary cannot be deemed complete unless you take the Sound of Music tour. It will be once in a lifetime experience especially if you’re a fan of the classic movie.

On this tour, original shooting locations can be visited. The tour can be undertaken via bus, bicycle or even by foot.

Apart from the Mirabelle Gardens, the pedestrianized Old Town provides the backdrop for all other scenes in the original movie.

Salzburg 2 day iinerary

Imagine being at the sets of the classic movie – the Sound of Music. While in Salzburg, you must take a tour around the complete set. It makes for a memorable experience. The tour can be undertaken via bus, bicycle or by foot. Being here is an epic feeling.

Eagle’s Nest (Kehlsteinhaus)

While the other sights and attractions are not very far from each other and can all be covered in a day, the Fuhrer’s ambitious holiday home would require half a day. Believe me, it is worth it.

This should be visited on the second day of Salzburg 2 day itinerary.

Perched atop a rocky mountain, it is named befittingly. Tour buses are regularly available to take you to the elevator that then takes you upwards.

It is advisable to leave early morning to truly enjoy this destination. 

The view from the hill (6000 ft above sea level) might give you an insight into why Hitler felt invincible to conquer the world.

Riding in the same lift that was used by Hitler, and standing in the same conference hall used by him gives one a different thrill.

Timings

8:30 am – 4:30 pm

Entrance fees

€ 16.00 each

The Kehlsteinhaus is a Third Reich-era building erected atop the summit of the Kehlstein, a rocky outcrop that rises above the Obersalzberg near the town of Berchtesgaden

The Kehlsteinhaus is built on top of a summit. It rises above the Obersalzberg near the town of Berchtesgaden. The place is absolutely gorgeous. If you want the feeling of being on the top of the world, visit here. Check the weather before heading.

Augustiner Braustübl Brewery

Finish your Salzburg 2 day itinerary by visiting the Augustiner Braustübl Brewery and sipping some beer. The place is unique in so far as it allows to bring your own food. The only condition is that drinks should be from here.

The beer is available either for half a liter or a whole liter.

This is how the system works here –  you take a mug from the shelf. Then, you rinse it under the tap. You finally pay and they fill your beer mug.

Budget Tips for Reasonable Implementation of Salzburg 2 Day Itinerary

Here are a few tips for first-time travelers visiting Salzburg.

These will come in handy during your Salzburg visit.

 

Get the Salzburg card

Purchase the 24/48-hour Salzburg Card as soon as you land in the city. This provides free access to a lot of attractions.

Use public transport

Utilize public transport as much as possible. The Salzburg Card provides free travel on public transport too.

Wear comfortable footwear

If you do not want to use public transport, wear comfortable footwear. A lot of the sights are within walking distance of each other.

The roads are very inviting, owing to the spectacular architecture and food stalls popping up everywhere.

Rent a bike

Salzburg is also a fantastic city to bike around. It has over 100 km of bike paths for the riders. You can easily rent a bike. There are many bike rental places in the old town.

Use the free WiFi

Salzburg has open, free city wifi of varying speeds throughout the city. I found the best connection at the Salzburg train station.

How to tip?

Tip about 5-10% of your bill if you like the service in a restaurant.

Round up the bill, and ask your server the change you need back, including the tip.

Attend a music concert

There are a lot of concerts happening in Salzburg. Try to attend at least one small concert if time allows.

A good budget traveler is the one who saves on accommodation and spends on exploration. So, I personally recommend the following places to you (they have been tried and tested by me).

Salzburg Food

Austria is not just home to wonderful beer, but also some delicious food. This is Kaiserschmarrn – a popular meal or dessert in Austria. It is a light, fluffy, and caramelised pancake, topped with fruits, almonds, raisins, and fruit compotes or sauces.

Budget Accommodation Options for Salzburg 2 Day Itinerary

There are plenty of accommodation options in Salzburg.

There are hostels, budget as well as luxury hotel options. Choose the ones that suit your pockets.

The Old Town area is the best to stay in Salzburg, because of the proximity of major Salzburg attractions. 

Some of the budget accommodation options that I prefer on my trips to Salzburg are as follows.

Hotel Pension Jahn

A comfortable and clean place to stay at, with an extremely friendly staff and close proximity to the main station, this is all you need to get started for this wondrous town.

Hotel Hofwirt Salzburg

Again, cozy rooms and a location in the midst of affordable restaurants, this place is the perfect stay for a 1-2 day stay over at Salzburg.

Der Salzburger Hof

Since this was the hotel that I stayed at on my maiden Salzburg trip, I can assure you that the rooms, staff and breakfast spread are one of the best that I’ve encountered all over Austria.

It is located at a 15 minutes walking distance from Mirabell Gardens, and 5 minutes walking distance from the station, giving it an added advantage.

Alderhof 

Also close to the station, accompanied by good food and accommodating staff, this hotel is perfect to give you old-town feels.

In case you don’t want to stay in any of the above options recommended by me, that is quite alright. Just do a good deal of research and find a safe and nominal stay option for yourself.

Salzburg 2 day itinerary

An aerial view of the beautiful city of Salzburg – a city that has so much to offer to each of its visitors. As a traveler, you will absolutely love exploring this wonderful city. Also, the food and people will come across as a surprise.

Frequently Asked Questions About Salzburg 2 Day Itinerary

Travelers who are curious always have tons of questions (and rightfully so). Let me address the most common ones for you.

 If you have any further questions, drop them in the comments section.

Should the Salzburg 2 day itinerary include all locations in Old Town?

Yes

Should the Salzburg 2 day itinerary begin by first exploring locations in Old Town?

Yes

Which location would need an extra day in addition to 2 days?

Berchtesgaden Salt Mine

Should the Salzburg 2 day itinerary be extended?

Yes. At least 3 days should be spent in Salzburg if you wish to explore more areas.

Should Sound of Music tour be a part of Salzburg 2 day itinerary

Absolutely yes

Is it possible to hang out at good eating places within 2 days ?

Yes

What places can be covered in Salzburg in just one day?

A lot of them.

Check out this 1 Day Itinerary for Salzburg    

Now that you’re aware of a decent Salzburg 2 day itinerary, you should also know about the basics of this city as a travel destination.

Salzburg 2 day itinerary

Since Salzburg is geographically located at the base of the magnificent Alps, the entire locale is enchanting. This holds true not just for first time visitors but even travelers who have been here before. One can simply not get enough of this view.

Salzburg as a Travel Destination: Highlights

Going through the information below will help you understand this Austrian city better.

Location

Central Europe       

Currency

Euro

1 Euro = 1.14 USD

1 Euro = 79.87 INR

Official language

German

(However, most people can speak English)

Accessibility

All year-round.

This is because it has moderate weather throughout.

Best time to visit

July – August (for connoisseurs of the fine arts)

September – October (ideal weather)

December – January (for experiencing the delightful Christmas markets)

Speciality

Do not leave Salzburg without trying the Apple Strudel (a dessert similar to, but better than, the Apple Pie)

Also, be prepared to feel like you’re constantly in movie-land, once you arrive.

Important events (2019)

There are a number of cultural activities happening in Salzburg all year round. Some of the most renowned for the year 2019 is as follows.

Winterfest: 28 Nov 2018- 6 Jan 2019

Mozart Week: 24 Jan- 3 Feb

Salzburg Easter Festival: 13-22 April

Salzburg Whitsun Festival: 7-10 June

Salzburg Festival: 20 July- 31 August

Jazz & The City: 17- 20 Oct

Must carry

Just your tickets and camera are fine.

Salzburg 2 day itinerary

To be honest, even 2 days are not going to be enough to do justice to Salzburg. The city offers so much to explore, that it requires one to re-visit it, over and over again. I wish you my best on your Salzburg trip. Visit this Austrian city to find a refreshed you. 

Salzburg is the place to be at if you want the perfect blend of sightseeing and peace.

This current Salzburg 2 day itinerary will ensure that your 48 hours are well spent. Remember, in order to be a good traveler, explore more and spend less.

Happy wayfaring 

THIS POST IS AN EXCLUSIVE PROPERTY OF BUDGET WAYFARERS. ANY INDIVIDUAL OR ASSOCIATION INDULGING IN PLAGIARISM WILL BE DEALT WITH STRICTLY . IF YOU WANT TO USE INFORMATION FROM THE ARTICLE ABOVE, KINDLY QUOTE THE SOURCE.

Sana Shah

Sana Shah is an old soul in a young world who feels she belongs to a different time. An ambivert by nature, Sana is as much of a social animal as she is a snuggled up reader. A self-proclaimed coffee addict as well, her perfect world consists of books, hot brewing coffee and travel tickets. Sana loves the green mountains and the blue skies alike. Also, the lakes are her best friends. She loves to travel to quaint locations and experience their cultures, in order to expand her horizons.