Travel Shop
Merch
Travel Tips
Photography
Points & Miles
Credit Cards
Salzburg is one of the best destinations to visit in Austria, and it’s one of my favorite European cities for solo female travelers. Plus, if you’re a Sound of Music fan, you’ll be singing your heart out as you explore this city. So here’s the ultimate Salzburg solo travel guide.
The Ultimate Austria Travel Guide
I felt very safe in Salzburg. But, as with any destination, you need to take precautions as a solo traveler. Don’t walk by yourself at night, stay in a secure and well-located hotel or vacation home, use slash-proof, lockable, and RFID-protected bags and purses, and always have a charged cell phone with you.
Here’s the ultimate Salzburg solo travel guide!
When To Go
May to August is the peak travel season, so be prepared for high prices and crowds, especially for the world-famous music festivals. Book your accommodation and tours as early as possible to ensure availability and save some money. Summer has warm daytime temperatures in the 80s, but these are the rainiest months of the year, so always have rain gear with you.
September and October are shoulder months. Temperatures will be pleasant during the day and cool in the mornings and evenings, and the Fall foliage makes the city extra-colorful. Salzburg is significantly less crowded during these months, so accommodation rates will drop, and you can get pictures at the famous spots without competing with crowds.
Winter is the off-season when you can have Salzburg practically to yourself. Snow is expected from November – February, so bring your warmest layers and sturdiest boots. Many tour companies and restaurants will be closed or have limited hours, so you’ll need to research any activities you want to do in advance. You can also score great accommodation deals during these months, and ski slopes aren’t far from the city.
March and April are shoulder months when wildflowers and the city’s gardens start attracting visitors again. March usually still has snow in the surrounding mountains, so you can get some end-of-season ski deals. Daytime temperatures will be in the 50s and 60s, and you’ll want layers for the cold evenings. Rain is common during these months, so always have a rain jacket.
What To Do
Do a walking tour of Salzburg’s Old Town.
Ride the Festungsbahn funicular up to Hohensalzburg Fortress.
Visit The Sound of Music filming sites with Fräulein Maria’s Bicycle Tours.
See Mozart’s residence and birthplace.
Walk along the Mönchsberg – start from the Mullner side next to the Mullner Church and the Augustiner Brau. You’ll head up a steep incline, then take the flat path that overlooks the river.
Visit Hangar 7.
Learn how to cook apple strudel at the Edelweiss Cooking School.
Go to a concert.
Walk on the old wall of the Kapuzinerberg – start by walking up the Linzergasse to the stone archway on the right-hand side. Then follow the pathway and steps to the Cappucine Monastery.
Tour the Stiegel brewery on their “Beer World” experience.
Where To Eat
Austrian/German Food: Alter Fuchs ($$-$$$), Zum fidelen Affen ($$-$$$), Pauli Stubn ($$-$$$).
My Favorites: Augustiner Brau (Pub, Beer Hall, $$), The Heart of Joy Cafe (European, $$-$$$), Johanneskeller (European, $$-$$$).
Breakfast: Cafe Wernbacher ($$-$$$), 220 Grad ($$-$$$), Bloberger Hof ($$-$$$).
International: Osteria (Italian, $$$), Cabreras (Mexican, $$-$$$), Afro Cafe (International, $$-$$$).
Fine Dining: Andreas Hofer ($$$), Stiftskeller St. Peter (Austrian, $$$$), The Glass Garden (Austrian, International, $$$$).
Cheap Eats: Pommes Boutique (Burgers, $), Costa (Pizza, European, $$), Stieglkeller Beer Garden, $$).
Where To Stay
I stayed at the Hotel Sacher Salzburg, one of the dreamiest European hotels I’ve ever visited!
Salzburg has some incredible accommodations for every budget and preference. From boutique hotels to modern retreats to historic mansions, I’ve rounded up the best hotels and vacation homes in Salzburg.
Best Day Trips
Hallstatt. This picturesque lake town is just a short drive or train ride from Salzburg. Hallstatt is a small town that can be very crowded during the summer months. So if you’re visiting in June, July, or August, arrive as early as possible or stay as late as possible to avoid some of the crowds.
Werfen. This small Alpine town is about a 45-minute car or bus ride from Salzburg. Werfen is home to the Hohenwerfen Castle (featured in the movie Where Eagles Dare) and the Do-Re-Mi field where The Sound of Music was filmed. You can hike a steep, difficult trail (with beautiful views) to the Do-Re-Mi field, or you can drive. And you can take a funicular to Hohenwerfen Castle.
The Eagle’s Nest. Also known as the Kehlsteinhaus, this mountaintop fortress was once a meeting place for Nazi party members. Now, it’s a stunning landmark with a restaurant, beer garden, and some of the best views in the country. The Eagle’s Nest is closed in the winter.
Shop My Austria Essentials
Is there anything you’d add to this Salzburg solo travel guide? Let us know in the comments!
For Planning The Rest Of Your Trip
-
Salzburg Solo Travel Guide
Recommended Tours in Salzburg
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Austria good for solo travel?
Yes! Austria is an excellent destination for solo female travelers. I felt very safe during my entire trip to Austria. But, as with any destination, you need to take precautions to keep yourself safe. Don’t walk by yourself at night, stay in a secure and well-located hotel or vacation home, use slash-proof, lockable, and RFID-protected bags and purses, and always have a charged cell phone with you.
How many days do you need in Salzburg?
I recommend spending at least three days in Salzburg – two days for exploring the city and one day for a day trip.
The Best Things To Do in Salzburg:
Do a walking tour of Salzburg’s Old Town.
Ride the Festungsbahn funicular up to Hohensalzburg Fortress.Visit The Sound of Music filming sites with Fräulein Maria’s Bicycle Tours.See Mozart’s residence and birthplace.Walk along the Mönchsberg – start from the Mullner side next to the Mullner Church and the Augustiner Brau. You’ll head up a steep incline, then take the flat path that overlooks the river.Visit Hangar 7.Learn how to cook apple strudel at the Edelweiss Cooking School.Go to a concert.Walk on the old wall of the Kapuzinerberg – start by walking up the Linzergasse to the stone archway on the right-hand side. Then follow the pathway and steps to the Cappucine Monastery.Tour the Stiegel brewery on their “Beer World” experience.Is it worth staying in Salzburg?
Yes! Salzburg is one of the best destinations to visit in Austria.
When To Go:
May to August is the peak travel season, so be prepared for high prices and crowds, especially for the world-famous music festivals. Book your accommodation and tours as early as possible to ensure availability and save some money. Summer has warm daytime temperatures in the 80s, but these are the rainiest months of the year, so always have rain gear with you.
September and October are shoulder months. Temperatures will be pleasant during the day and cool in the mornings and evenings, and the Fall foliage makes the city extra-colorful. Salzburg is significantly less crowded during these months, so accommodation rates will drop, and you can get pictures at the famous spots without competing with crowds.
Winter is the off-season when you can have Salzburg practically to yourself. Snow is expected from November – February, so bring your warmest layers and sturdiest boots. Many tour companies and restaurants will be closed or have limited hours, so you’ll need to research any activities you want to do in advance. You can also score great accommodation deals during these months, and ski slopes aren’t far from the city.
March and April are shoulder months when wildflowers and the city’s gardens start attracting visitors again. March usually still has snow in the surrounding mountains, so you can get some end-of-season ski deals. Daytime temperatures will be in the 50s and 60s, and you’ll want layers for the cold evenings. Rain is common during these months, so always have a rain jacket.
Is Vienna good for solo female travelers?
Yes! Vienna is one of the best destinations to visit in Austria.
When To Go:
May to August is the peak travel season, so be prepared for high prices and crowds, especially for the world-famous music festivals. Book your accommodation and tours as early as possible to ensure availability and save some money. Summer has warm daytime temperatures in the 80s, but these are the rainiest months of the year, so always have rain gear with you.
September and October are shoulder months. Temperatures will be pleasant during the day and cool in the mornings and evenings, and the Fall foliage makes the city extra-colorful. Vienna is significantly less crowded during these months, so accommodation rates will drop, and you can get pictures at the famous spots without competing with crowds.
Winter is the off-season when you can have Vienna practically to yourself. Snow is expected from November – February, so bring your warmest layers and sturdiest boots. Many tour companies and restaurants will be closed or have limited hours, so you’ll need to research any activities you want to do in advance. You can also score great accommodation deals during these months, and ski slopes aren’t far from the city.
March and April are shoulder months when wildflowers and the city’s gardens start attracting visitors again. March usually still has snow in the surrounding mountains, so you can get some end-of-season ski deals. Daytime temperatures will be in the 50s and 60s, and you’ll want layers for the cold evenings. Rain is common during these months, so always have a rain jacket.
Is Salzburg safe for tourists?
Yes! Salzburg is an excellent destination for solo female travelers. I felt very safe during my entire trip to Austria. But, as with any destination, you need to take precautions to keep yourself safe. Don’t walk by yourself at night, stay in a secure and well-located hotel or vacation home, use slash-proof, lockable, and RFID-protected bags and purses, and always have a charged cell phone with you.
Best Things To Do in Salzburg:
Do a walking tour of Salzburg’s Old Town.Ride the Festungsbahn funicular up to Hohensalzburg Fortress.Visit The Sound of Music filming sites with Fräulein Maria’s Bicycle Tours.See Mozart’s residence and birthplace.Walk along the Mönchsberg – start from the Mullner side next to the Mullner Church and the Augustiner Brau. You’ll head up a steep incline, then take the flat path that overlooks the river.Visit Hangar 7.Learn how to cook apple strudel at the Edelweiss Cooking School.Go to a concert.Walk on the old wall of the Kapuzinerberg – start by walking up the Linzergasse to the stone archway on the right-hand side. Then follow the pathway and steps to the Cappucine Monastery.Tour the Stiegel brewery on their “Beer World” experience.Is Vienna Austria expensive?
Vienna is one of the most expensive cities in Austria. To save some money, here are budget tips for visiting Vienna:
✅Free Admission to Museums. Most museums have designated days with free entry. So if there’s a museum you want to visit, check to see if it has a free admission day, and plan accordingly.
✅Street Food. Food from street vendors can still be a hearty, large-portion, full-meal for much cheaper than restaurants.
✅Drink Local Beer & Wine. Buy local beer and wine brands instead of the more expensive international brands.
✅Buy Train Tickets in Advance. Book your train tickets between cities and towns as soon as possible. Rates will increase closer to your travel days.
✅Use travel reward points to book your hotel and/or flights.Is Vienna or Salzburg better?
Vienna and Salzburg are both incredible destinations, and they will give you very different scenery and experiences. I highly recommend visiting both of these incredible cities!
What is the best time to visit Salzburg?
May to August is the peak travel season, so be prepared for high prices and crowds, especially for the world-famous music festivals. Book your accommodation and tours as early as possible to ensure availability and save some money. Summer has warm daytime temperatures in the 80s, but these are the rainiest months of the year, so always have rain gear with you.
September and October are shoulder months. Temperatures will be pleasant during the day and cool in the mornings and evenings, and the Fall foliage makes the city extra-colorful. Salzburg is significantly less crowded during these months, so accommodation rates will drop, and you can get pictures at the famous spots without competing with crowds.
Winter is the off-season when you can have Salzburg practically to yourself. Snow is expected from November – February, so bring your warmest layers and sturdiest boots. Many tour companies and restaurants will be closed or have limited hours, so you’ll need to research any activities you want to do in advance. You can also score great accommodation deals during these months, and ski slopes aren’t far from the city.
March and April are shoulder months when wildflowers and the city’s gardens start attracting visitors again. March usually still has snow in the surrounding mountains, so you can get some end-of-season ski deals. Daytime temperatures will be in the 50s and 60s, and you’ll want layers for the cold evenings. Rain is common during these months, so always have a rain jacket.
YOUR TRAVEL CHECKLIST
PIN THIS GUIDE!
This Salzburg solo travel guide is not a sponsored post, and, as always, the thoughts and opinions expressed in this Salzburg solo travel guide are entirely my own. Some of the links in this Salzburg solo travel guide are affiliate links, and, at no cost to you, I may earn a small commission from this Salzburg solo travel guide.
