5 Nearest Easy Day Trips from Salzburg (Austria and Germany)

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Located right next to the border between Austria and Germany, north of the Alps, Salzburg is the ideal starting point for exploring one of the most stunning areas in the German-speaking world. From the historic sites along the Salzach Valley, to the charming villages in the Salzkammergut region, and the breathtaking natural beauty of Upper Bavaria, there’s a wealth of places to visit around Salzburg!

Take for instance, Hellbrunn Palace, Hohenwerfen Fortress, St. Gilgen, and Berchtesgaden — they’re all just a short ride away from the city. Even Hallstatt, Austria’s enchanting fairytale village, is within reach for a day trip from Salzburg. If you’re planning a 2-day visit or a 3-day Salzburg escapade and you’re interested in exploring the surrounding area, these five destinations are my top picks for your day trip.

Hellbrunn Palace, Hohenwerfen Fortress, day trips from Salzburg, Austria

St. Gilgen, Berchtesgaden, day trips from Salzburg, Austria

Hallstatt, the most famous day trip from Salzburg, Austria

Before you set off on a day trip, though, don’t forget to explore the attractions right in Salzburg. The city is home to beautiful discoveries and remarkable historical landmarks like the:

These sites are conveniently close to each other, making them perfect for a walking tour of the Old Town.

1. Hellbrunn Palace

Hellbrunn Palace, a day trip from Salzburg, Austria — Hellbrunn Palace

The garden of Hellbrunn Palace, a day trip from Salzburg, Austria — The garden of Hellbrunn Palace

Some of the most beautiful things to see inside Hellbrunn Palace, a day trip from Salzburg, Austria — Some of the most beautiful things to see inside Hellbrunn Palace

Nestled in the rolling hills of Austria, just a short bus ride from the city, lies a hidden gem: Hellbrunn Palace. Built in the 17th century by Prince-Archbishop Markus Sittikus, this palace was designed for pure enjoyment and recreation.

From its trick fountains that have been delighting visitors for over 400 years, to its famous Sound of Music gazebo where Liesl and Franz whispered sweet nothings and Maria and Georg shared a romantic moment, Hellbrunn Palace is a feast for the senses.

But it’s not just about the fountains and gazebo — the palace is also home to fascinating exhibits about Markus Sittikus, rooms with stunning architectural details, and so much more.

So why not hop on a bus (or boat, if you’re feeling fancy) and come explore one of Austria’s most creative engineering feats from the 17th century?

Here are some day trip tours that you can join to visit Hellbrunn Palace:

Original Sound of Music Tour — Recommended
The Hills are Alive Do Re Mi Tour — Private Tour (best for groups)
Boat Ride to Hellbrunn and Palace Visit — Unique way to visit Hellbrunn Palace

Read: Everything You Need to Know About Visiting Hellbrunn Palace

2. Hohenwerfen Fortress

Hohenwerfen Fortress overlooking Salzach Valley, a day trip from Salzburg, Austria — Hohenwerfen Fortress overlooking Salzach Valley

The Legend of Jackl and Falconry Museum in Hohenwerfen Fortress, a day trip from Salzburg, Austria — The Legend of Jackl and Falconry Museum in Hohenwerfen Fortress

Breathtaking views from Hohenwerfen Frotress, a day trip from Salzburg, Austria — Breathtaking views from Hohenwerfen Frotress

Some of the most rustic views inside Hohenwerfen Fortress, a day trip from Salzburg, Austria — Some of the most rustic views inside Hohenwerfen Fortress

Hohenwerfen Fortress is a magical-looking castle located in the town of Werfen, just 40 kilometers south of Salzburg. The fortress, which dates back to the 11th century, is perched on a 623-meter-high cliff, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

It’s an easy 45-minute train ride from the city, making it an easy day trip for those seeking adventure and culture.

One of the unique experiences you can have at Hohenwerfen Fortress is exploring its exhibitions, such as The Legend of Jackl. This exhibition is about one of the darkest chapters of Salzburg’s history, shedding light on the practice of witchcraft throughout the ages.

Hohenwerfen Fortress is also home to the first Austrian Falconry Museum. Here, visitors can explore a thousand years of falconry and raptor hunting history. Visitors can also witness the art of falconry through their birds of prey show, which is a truly unique experience.

Below are the entrance tickets and tours to Hohenwerfen Fortress:

Read: Visiting Hohenwerfen Fortress Guide, Expectations, and Tips

3. St. Gilgen

St. Gilgen, a day trip from Salzburg, Austria — St. Gilgen

St. Gilgen and Wolfgangsee, a day trip from Salzburg, Austria — St. Gilgen and Wolfgangsee

The charm of St. Gilgen in 4 pictures, a day trip from Salzburg, Austria — The charm of St. Gilgen in 4 pictures

Things to discover in St. Gilgen, a day trip from Salzburg, Austria — Things to discover in St. Gilgen

Located in the Salzkammergut region of Austria, you’ll find St. Gilgen, a charming village that’s sure to capture your heart. Just 36 kilometers (a single bus ride) from the city on the northwestern shores of Wolfgangsee, this idyllic alpine village is a dream come true for wanderers like us.

With picturesque houses adorned with murals and flowers, tranquil green meadows, breathtaking alpine lake views, and charming fountains, St. Gilgen is like something straight out of a movie – and it actually is!

The bird’s eye view panorama of St. Gilgen was featured in the opening scenes of the beloved classic, The Sound of Music. St. Gilgen is not just a picture-perfect place — it’s also steeped in rich cultural heritage, particularly when it comes to Salzburg’s musical history.

In 2005, the Wolfgangsee Tourist Board even christened St. Gilgen as the “Mozart Village”!

Though Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart never had the opportunity to visit St. Gilgen, Mozarts have deep roots in the town, making it an interesting destination for his fans.

Inspiring discoveries await you in St. Gilgen, too. Like the Musical Instruments Museum. This museum is like no other thanks to its owner and curator, who is described by visitors as a humble and talented man who collects and plays instruments from all over the world.

If you are traveling in a group and wish to explore not only St. Gilgen but also the stunning surrounding areas of Salzkammergut, here are some tours to consider:

Original Sound of Music Tour — Recommended
Full-day Private City & Lake District Tour — traveling with your family, group of friends? Check out this tour with skip the line perks.

Read: 7 Attractions to See and Experience When Visiting St. Gilgen

4. Berchtesgaden

Overlooking view of the town of Berchtesgaden in Bavaria, a day trip from Salzburg, Austria — Overlooking view of the town of Berchtesgaden in Bavaria

Konigssee and Eagle's Nest in Berchtesgaden, a day trip from Salzburg, Austria — Konigssee and Eagle’s Nest in Berchtesgaden

Jenner, Eagle's Nest, Konigssee, and Salt Mine Berchtesgaden, a day trip from Salzburg, Austria — Jenner, Eagle’s Nest, Konigssee, and Salt Mine Berchtesgaden

Sea of clouds from Jenner in Berchtesgaden, a day trip from Salzburg, Austria — Sea of clouds from Jenner in Berchtesgaden

Nestled in the Bavarian Alps, just 25 kilometers from Salzburg, lies the lovely town of Berchtesgaden. This town offers breathtaking sights and stunning alpine lake scenes that are sure to leave you in awe. Whether you’re traveling by train or car, Berchtesgaden is less than an hour away from Salzburg and is well worth the journey.

From the top of Eagle’s Nest to the surface of Konigssee and deep underground in the Salt Mine Berchtesgaden, natural wonders await you at every turn. Your senses will be overwhelmed by the beauty of this town, from the magical St. Bartholomew Church in Konigssee to the breathtaking panorama from Eagle’s Nest and the charming Berchtesgaden Market.

Take a ride on the Jenner cable car and feast your eyes on the glory of the Bavarian Alps! On some days, you may even be lucky enough to witness an otherworldly sea of clouds from Jenner – an unforgettable experience!

History buffs will also find plenty to explore in Berchtesgaden, from Eagle’s Nest – once a multi-purpose meeting building for the Nazis – to Salt Mine Berchtesgaden, the oldest salt mine in all of Germany.

Here are some of my recommended Berchtesgaden day trips from Salzburg to join:

Highlights of the Bavarian Mountains incl. Eagle’s Nest — Best for groups
Full-Day Super Saver Bavarian Mountains Tour — Best for solo travelers
Private Eagle’s Nest Tour & Königsee from Salzburg — No hassle and luxury private day trip tour

Read: Berchtesgaden Day Trip From Salzburg Guide, Tips, and More

5. Hallstatt

The lake and streets in Hallstatt, a day trip from Salzburg, Austria — The lake and streets in Hallstatt

Scenes when you wander in the village of Hallstatt, a day trip from Salzburg, Austria — Scenes when you wander in the village of Hallstatt

Another perspective of Hallstatt, a day trip from Salzburg, Austria — Another perspective of Hallstatt

Overlooking view of Hallstatt from 5 Fingers at Dachstein, a day trip from Salzburg, Austria — Overlooking view of Hallstatt from 5 Fingers at Dachstein

Iconic view of Hallstatt, a day trip from Salzburg, Austria — Iconic view of Hallstatt

Hallstatt, known for inspiring Frozen, is a picture-perfect village in the Salzkammergut area, hard to miss when visiting Salzburg. Known for its stunning mountain views and fairy tale scenery, this quaint town on the western shore of Lake Hallstatt is a must-see for any traveler to Austria.

Just hop on Bus 150 from Salzburg to Bad Ischl, then transfer to Bus 542 or 543 to Hallstatt Lahn, and in just over two hours, you’ll be transported to a world of natural and man-made beauty.

When you arrive, you can simply have a leisurely stroll through the village and soak up the enchanting atmosphere. Head to “Viewpoint Hallstatt” for a breathtaking view of Hallstatt’s classic profile — it’s like stepping into the kingdom of Arendelle from Disney’s Frozen!

But Hallstatt has much more to offer than just stunning views. There are a variety of exciting attractions to explore, making it an amazing destination. Take a trip to the Hallstatt Salt Mine and experience the thrill of the miners’ slide, marvel at the oldest wooden staircase in Europe, and discover the underground lake.

For those seeking breathtaking views, head to the 5 Fingers lookout point on Dachstein Mountain. Jutting out like a metal hand over a 1,300-foot sheer drop, this viewpoint offers one of the most spectacular panoramas in the Alps. Or, for a different perspective, visit Rudolph’s Tower & Skywalk, perched 1,200 feet above the village on Salt Mountain (Salzberg).

The only potential drawbacks of visiting Hallstatt are the crowds during peak season and the possibility of bad weather.

If you’re looking for a hassle-free way to explore Hallstatt and other beautiful places in the region on a day trip from Salzburg, there are plenty of tours available to help you make the most of your visit:

Half-Day Tour to Hallstatt from Salzburg
Private Tour of Hallstatt from Salzburg (best for groups)

Unique Day Trips

Salzach Valley, Salzkammergut, and the Bavarian Alps are on different sides of Salzburg, but you don’t have to visit them separately. These regions are close enough to explore two in one day, especially if you’re driving. For example, Berchtesgaden is only 45 minutes from Hohenwerfen Fortress by car. Werfen and St. Gilgen are about an hour apart in good traffic. With the right attractions in your itinerary, you can enjoy a unique and memorable day trip from Salzburg. If you need some recommendations, here are a few worth considering:

Sound of Music & Salt Mines Tour — A combination of different experiences, best for families and fans of the movie.
8-Hour Tour with Horse-Drawn Sleigh Ride — Unique fairytale experience to try during winter.
Werfen World’s Largest Ice Caves — Incredible works of nature to discover when it’s summer.

Explore Salzburg

Whether you’re visiting Salzburg for a day or staying a few days to explore the city and nearby attractions, I’ve got you covered. I’ve put together some itineraries to help you make the most of your trip or at least give you some ideas on how to spend your time in the region. Check them out!

One Day Salzburg Travel Plan (Budget Friendly Itinerary)

Salzburg in Two Days: Old Town Plus Day Trip

Three-Day Salzburg Itinerary: Leisurely Old Town Exploration and Day Trip

Old Town Salzburg Walking Tour (Includes Viewpoints) + Map

See All Salzburg Travel Guides Now (FREE)

For a convenient, unique, or more enriching visit, check out these experiences and services:

Beyond Salzburg

Planning a longer trip? After Salzburg, you can easily explore nearby destinations in both Germany and Austria. To the west, you’ll find the Bavarian Alps and Southern Germany. Munich, just a direct train ride from Salzburg, is a great place to start. You can also head to Vienna, Austria’s capital, which is only about three hours away by train. There, you can take in the city’s impressive architecture. Click the buttons below to start exploring these cities.

Discover Bavarian Alps

Things to Do in Munich

Explore Vienna

Read: 10 Days in Austria: Innsbruck + Salzburg + Vienna