salzburg sightseeing small group day tour from munich by rail

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Explore the Iconic Landmarks of Rocky Mountain Rail Tours

Rocky Mountain Rail Tours offer a breathtaking journey through some of the most iconic landmarks in North America. From stunning mountain ranges to picturesque valleys, this scenic train ride is a must-do for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. In this article, we will take you on a virtual tour of the Rocky Mountains and highlight some of the key landmarks you can experience on these rail tours.

The Majestic Rockies

The Rocky Mountains are synonymous with grandeur and natural beauty. As you embark on a rail tour through this vast mountain range, be prepared to witness awe-inspiring vistas at every turn. The Rockies stretch over 3,000 miles from British Columbia in Canada to New Mexico in the United States, offering an abundance of scenic wonders.

One of the most iconic landmarks along the route is Mount Robson. Standing tall at 12,972 feet, it is the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies. Its snow-capped summit dominates the skyline and serves as a majestic backdrop for your rail journey.

Another must-see landmark is Moraine Lake. Nestled in Banff National Park, this glacially fed lake exhibits an enchanting turquoise hue that is simply mesmerizing. Surrounded by towering mountains and lush forests, Moraine Lake offers an idyllic setting for photographers and nature lovers.

Banff National Park

Located in Alberta, Canada, Banff National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its pristine wilderness and abundant wildlife. This park encompasses over 6,600 square kilometers of stunning landscapes that include glaciers, emerald lakes, and rugged peaks.

One of the highlights within Banff National Park is Lake Louise. Known for its crystal-clear waters reflecting the surrounding mountains, Lake Louise is often described as one of the most beautiful lakes in North America. Take a leisurely stroll along its shores or rent a canoe to fully immerse yourself in the serenity of this natural wonder.

Another landmark within the park is the Columbia Icefield. This massive expanse of ice covers an area of approximately 325 square kilometers and feeds eight major glaciers. Visitors can take a guided tour onto the Athabasca Glacier, where they can walk on ice and learn about the powerful forces that shape these remarkable landscapes.

Jasper National Park

Continuing on your Rocky Mountain rail tour, you will venture into Jasper National Park, another gem in Canada’s national park system. This vast wilderness is home to diverse wildlife, including elk, moose, and bighorn sheep.

One of the most iconic landmarks within Jasper National Park is Maligne Lake. Stretching over 22 kilometers in length, this glacially fed lake offers unparalleled beauty with its vivid blue waters and surrounding snow-capped peaks. Take a boat tour to Spirit Island for a truly unforgettable experience.

For those seeking adventure, a visit to Athabasca Falls is a must. This powerful waterfall cascades over layers of quartzite rock, creating a dramatic display of nature’s raw power. The falls are easily accessible via well-maintained trails and offer breathtaking viewpoints for photography enthusiasts.

The Spiral Tunnels

As your Rocky Mountain rail tour comes to an end, you will traverse one last iconic landmark – the Spiral Tunnels. Located near Field, British Columbia, these engineering marvels were built to overcome the steep gradient of Kicking Horse Pass.

The Spiral Tunnels allow trains to navigate through the mountainous terrain by gradually ascending or descending using spiraling tunnels inside the mountains themselves. Witnessing these massive trains maneuver their way through these intricate tunnels is an awe-inspiring sight that showcases both human ingenuity and respect for nature’s challenges.

In conclusion, Rocky Mountain Rail Tours offer an incredible opportunity to explore some of North America’s most iconic landmarks. From the majestic Rockies to the stunning national parks of Banff and Jasper, every moment of this scenic train ride is filled with awe-inspiring beauty. So, grab your camera and embark on a journey that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.

This text was generated using a large language model, and select text has been reviewed and moderated for purposes such as readability.

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Salzburg Tour: Munich to Salzburg Day Trip

Day trip from Munich to Salzburg (Austria)

Quick Details

• Hour Glass Duration: 9.5 hours
• Clock Start Time: 9.00 am
• User Ages: Ages 6+
• Book Tour Language: English

We also offer this tour in Spanish

• Mozart’s birthplace
• Original filming locations of The Sound of Music
• Mirabell Castle and Mirabell Garden
• The Old Town of Salzburg
• Salzburg Cathedral
• Fortress Hohensalzburg

All guests must bring their passports.

Salzburg Day Trip from Munich in English

Our Salzburg tours bring you to one of Europe’s most beautiful cities. A day trip to one of Europe’s most beautiful and romantic cities, the home of The Sound of Music and Mozart.

Spend a magical day with us across the border in Austria as we visit the gorgeous baroque city of Salzburg, a place so precious that it has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Medieval fortresses, beautiful alpine scenery, historic cathedrals, iconic movie locations, and some of the best chocolate and confectionary in the world: Salzburg is the highlights of a two week European trip packed into one day.

We’ll show you all the important sights of Salzburg – such as the famous Salzburg “Dom” – Cathedral, St. Peter’s church, the Mirabell Gardens, or the elegant promenades along the banks of the river Salzach. And if you are a fan of the Sound of Music, you must see Salzburg. Salzburg is only a two-hour train ride from Munich, making it perfect for a day trip.

Salzburg is simply one of Europe’s most special cities. The historic Salzburg Old Town is compact and walkable, and can easily be experienced in one day. We’ll walk you through Salzburg and give you an orientation, supply you with a map and plenty of advice, and then you’ll have time to explore historic Salzburg for yourself.

Never pass on an opportunity to see Salzburg. You’ll remember it forever.

• Chevron down Where do we meet for the day trip to Salzburg?

All our tours meet in the Radius Tours Office, located at Dachauer Straße 4, 80335 Munich.

• Chevron down When should I be at the meeting point?

Please be at the meeting point 15 minutes before the starting time for your visit to Salzburg? Our tours depart promptly at the advertised time.

• Chevron down What do I need to bring?

Be sure to wear suitable clothing and comfortable shoes, as we’ll mainly be outside and a reasonable amount of walking is involved. For most of the year, Salzburg has a very pleasant climate, and perfect for tours, but the warm summer months experience occasional rain showers. Winter can be cold. Please consult the weather forecast before meeting us, and dress accordingly. We advise you to bring water on hot summer days. Our tours go, no matter what the weather.

• Chevron down Should I tip the guide?

Yes, please! It is customary to tip in Munich and Bavaria, and our tour guides certainly appreciate your generosity. They work hard to make our tours perfect, and tips are an important part of their income.

• Chevron down Why Radius Tours?

We have been doing this for a very long time, and we are very good at it!

If you love your Salzburg Day Trip - and you will! - you'll want to check out our other great walks

• Chevron down Nuremberg Day Trip

Travel with us to “the most German of German cities,” the home of both the glories of medieval Germany and the darkness of 20th century Germany.

Book Nuremberg Day Trip here

• Chevron down Dachau Memorial Site

Travel to the former notorious concentration camp in Dachau, now preserved as a memorial site. A deeply moving and educational experience for everyone who wants to understand Germany’s tragic 20th century history.

Book Dachau half-day trip here

• Chevron down Discover Munich

If you want to learn more about King Ludwig after your visit to Neuschwanstein Castle, check out our daily Munich walking tour. You’ll learn more about Ludwig and the other kings of Bavaria, and lots more besides as you discover Germany’s most beautful city.

Book Discover Munich here

• Chevron down Bike Tour

Ludwig II built Neuschwanstein because he preferred castles to beer halls. But Ludwig was crazy. The only product of Bavaria more world-famous than Neuschwanstein Castle is Bavarian beer. Come on our Beer Evening and find out why.

Book Beer and Food Evening here

• Chevron down Other great experiences

If you loved Neuschwanstein, you’ll really love Herrenchiemsee. Book here!

Book our Third Reich in Munich walk here!

Or ask about our private offers.You can book a private tour to other highlights on the famous tourist trail, such as Rothenburg. Or famous beauty spots in area, such as the Wieskirche, Oberammergau, Garmisch-Partenkirchen, or Berchtesgaden. Enquire here .

Or simply email us to find out more about our menu of experiences, day trips, evening events and Private Tours.

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Neuschwanstein Castle Tour

Our Neuschwanstein Castle Tour from Munich takes you to a magical place. It’s an unforgettable experience!

• User Ages 13+
• Clock 9 AM, 10.15 AM & 12.15 PM (Depending on the month)
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Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site Tour

Our Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site Tour gives you interesting and moving insights into a historical monument to one of the cruelest crimes in human history.

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Don't know where to start, best places to visit in munich, tours and things to do in munich, best day trips from munich.

THE BEST Day Trips from Munich to Salzburg

Day trips from munich to salzburg.

• Munich to Fussen
• Munich to Dachau
• Munich to Salzburg
• Munich to Nuremberg
• Free cancellation
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Salzburg Sightseeing Small-Group Day Tour from Munich by Rail

2. Salzburg and Lake District Day Tour from Munich

3. Munich Austrian Alps, Hallstatt, and Salzburg Private Day Trip

4. Private Tour from Munich to Hallstatt and Salzburg with Austrian Lunch

5. Private Tour from Munich to Salzburg, Hohensalzburg Castle with Austrian Lunch

6. Salzburg Semi-Private Guided Day Tour from Munich with Dinner

7. Private Sound-of-Music and Historic Salzburg Tour from Munich

8. Salzburg and Salt Mines Private Tour

9. Private Tour of Salzburg's Old Town from Munich by Train

10. Private tour Salzburg and the Lake District from Munich

11. Magical CHRiSTMAS MARKETS: Salzburg & Berchtesgaden EXCLUSiVE TOUR from Munich

12. Salzburg's Old Town Private 1-Day Trip from Munich by Car

13. Salzburg City Private Tour from Munich

14. From Munich: VIP day trip to Salzburg

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Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site

Full day small group Tour in Neuschwanstein from Innsbruck

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Dive Into Germany

Munich To Salzburg Day Trip – How To Get There, Attractions, Tours & More

If you’re planning to take a day trip to Salzburg from Munich, you’re in for a treat. Salzburg is an incredibly charming Austrian city just across the Germany-Austrian border.

With cobblestone streets, delightful cafes and restaurants, a relaxed atmosphere and the Salzach River which divides the city in two, it really is an ideal European city to visit.

Before you embark on your Munich day trip to Salzburg, make sure you read this article!

Below, we have everything you need to know including whether it’s worth taking Salzburg day trips from Munich, the distance Munich to Salzburg, the best way to get from Munich to Salzburg including how to take a train to Salzburg from Munich, a Munich to Salzburg bus or what it’s like to drive Munich to Salzburg.

We also give you plenty of information on the best way to enjoy your day trip with a list of the best Munich to Salzburg tours. If you travel independently, we share our best Salzburg day trip itinerary so you can follow that and make the most of your time in Salzburg.

Table of Contents

Is It Worth Taking A Munich To Salzburg Day Trip?

Salzburg is an incredibly scenic city and there are many things to do here. If you travel Munich to Salzburg for a day trip, unfortunately you won’t be able to see everything in just one day.

However, taking one of the Munich day trips to Salzburg listed below is a better option than not visiting at all!

You can certainly get a sense of the city’s vibe in one day, as well as visit some of the main highlights. It also depends on what you want to see. We’ve written more below on how to get the most out of your day trip tour from Munich to Salzburg.

How Far Is Salzburg From Munich?

The distance between Munich and Salzburg is about 145 kilometres heading southeast. This journey typically takes 1.5 to 2 hours by car or bus, but this can be impacted by heavy traffic and the exact route you take.

How far is it from Munich to Salzburg by train? It is typically the same as by car. If you leave from Munich Central Station and arrive in Salzburg Main Station, the journey typically takes between 1.5 to 2 hours.

Exactly How To Take A One Day Trip From Munich to Salzburg

You basically have four options for getting from Munich to Salzburg. You can…

• Take a Munich to Salzburg train
• Take a bus from Munich to Salzburg
• Drive across the border
• Join a tour

Three of the options above – driving, or taking a bus or train – are independent. A tour is another option where the planning is done for you.

Which option is best? Read on!

Munich To Salzburg Map

Below is a map for getting from Munich to Salzburg Austria so you have an idea of the Munich to Salzburg distance and path involved.

How To Travel From Munich To Salzburg By Train

It is very easy take a train from train from Munich to Salzburg. Trains from Munich to Salzburg depart from Munich Hauptbahnhof (Munich Central Station), and there are several rail operators to choose from.

The journey typically takes just under 1.5 hours if you take the fastest Railjet high-speed train. This is covered by the Eurail Pass. These trains are comfortable and have WiFi, entertainment and sell food and drinks.

There are other options including regional trains which take between 1.5 to 2 hours to cover the same distance. Regional trains are covered by the Bayern Pass (Railjet is not), so this is your best option if you have this pass.

You’ll arrive in Salzburg Main Station, from which it’s just a short walk to city centre.

Click here to see all your train options and prices.

Travelling From Munich To Salzburg By Bus

You can also take the bus Munich to Salzburg. Flixbus buses depart from Munich Central Station and the journey typically takes between 1 hour and 50 minutes, and 2 hours and 10 minutes.

The price is quite affordable and buses have conveniences like WiFi, power outlets and a toilet. There are services running throughout the day from 4:05am to 11:40pm at night.

One of the disadvantages is that the bus arrives in Salzburg South, so you’ll need to take a train, bus or taxi to the city centre.

Click here to see all your bus options and prices.

Driving From Munich To Salzburg

As stated the driving distance from Munich to Salzburg is about 145 kilometres (depending on where you start) and takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. It is quite a scenic drive from Munich to Salzburg but the driving time can be impacted by traffic which can stand still in both cities.

The benefit with driving is that you have a bit more freedom to explore and can even visit nearby towns (if you have the time). With the train being so easy, I wouldn’t recommend a Munich to Salzburg drive unless you really want to. Parking can be tricky and fuel prices are expensive which can make the journey by car quite pricey.

Having said that, the drive is easy. From Munich you’ll simply head on the A8 autobahn until you reach the Austrian border, where you will continue on the A1 for a short while before you exit to Salzburg.

Can you drive from Munich to Salzburg without a vignette? Yes, if you don’t plan on visiting other parts of Austria. A vignette is required in Austria to drive on toll roads. The short stretch from the border to Salzburg is exempt from needing a vignette.

If you plan to explore further, you’ll need to purchase one. You can do this at the border.

Click here to see rental car options and prices.

Why Book A Salzburg Tour From Munich?

For day trips from Munich to Salzburg, a tour is the best option. Getting from Munich Germany to Salzburg Austria and back again can take over 4 hours, not to mention planning your visit and getting between attractions. When you just have one day, you don’t have any time to waste.

Tours to Salzburg will include your transportation from Munich to Salzburg, they will have the entire itinerary planned for you, will take you between attractions and often include entry prices to attractions.

You can also pick a tour that focuses on the attractions that interest you. With only one day, tours are the best way to explore Salzburg.

Compare All The Best Munich Tours To Salzburg

Here’s a quick comparison of all your Munich to Salzburg day trip options.

You can read more about each of these options below.

Best Tours From Munich To Salzburg

Here’s a short review of all your Munich to Salzburg tour options. Simply pick the one that most appeals and click the link under it to see the latest price, availability and to book in.

Salzburg Sightseeing Small Group Day Tour From Munich By Rail

This small group tour offers the perfect mix with a guided tour and time for independent exploration. The tour starts just near Munich Central Station at 9am at the Radius Tours Office, where you’ll make your way to the train to Salzburg.

Once you arrive in Salzburg, your guide will take you on a 1.5 hour city walking tour. This guided city tour includes information on the history of the city and important sites like Mozart’s residence and The Sound of Music sites. After this you’ll have 3 whole hours to explore the city and its sites independently. This is enough time to get lunch, see the Salzburg Cathedral and fit in a visit to the impressive medieval Festung Hohensalzburg fortress.

Return train tickets are included, so the Salzburg to Munich train is also covered. When the train from Salzburg to Munich arrives, the tour concludes either at the tour office or Munich Central Station.

Click here to see the latest prices.

Salzburg And Lake District Day Tour From Munich

This is the perfect tour if you want to venture further and see the Lake District and the town of St Wolfgang. This tour meets at a bus stop near Munich Central Station at 8:10am for an 8:30am departure.

After the scenic drive to Salzburg, you’ll go on a short 30 minute walk through the city to orientate yourself, and then you can explore with free time to spare. Time is limited but there’s enough time to see Mozart’s House, the Mirabell Gardens and Old Town.

The bus then takes you to Lake Wolfgang passing through Lake District. Explore for 30 minutes and then take an optional boat ride (for a fee) between April and October.

Fitting so much in results in a cramped tour. However, this is still a good tour for seeing the beautiful scenery around Salzburg with limited time.

Private Sound-Of-Music And Historic Salzburg Tour From Munich

Salzburg is known by many for the city where The Sound of Music was filmed. This private tour explores the best of the movie spots and more. The tour stops at over 20 spots for exploring, photo opportunities, and for getting a real sense of Salzburg in just one day.

Just some of the spots visited include the Salzburg Cathedral, the 400 year old Trick Fountains Hellbrunn, Museum der Moderne, the Mirabell Palace and Gardens, Mozart’s residence and much more. You’ll explore further with a visit to the Salzburg Lake District and Lake Wolfgang and see the more stunning Sound of Music sites.

As this is a private tour, you can also customise it to your interests. You won’t need to worry how far is Munich to Salzburg as you’ll be driven in luxury minivan with hotel pickup and drop off included.

The total tour time is around 11 hours. It’s a full on day and not cheap, but totally worth it to get the best out of Salzburg in a day.

Salzburg Semi-Private Guided Day Tour From Munich With Dinner

This semi-private tour is a full on 12 hour day that let’s you enjoy the best of Salzburg’s central attractions. This tour scores extra points for its smaller group size, and for being an all inclusive tour. Transport, lunch, café stops with cake and coffee, and even alcohol are all included in the price.

Enjoy the alpine scenery and see many of Salzburg’s top attractions like the Mirabell Palace and Gardens, a stunning site with the palace dating back to 1606. See the famous Salzburg Cathedral and Fortress Hohensalzburg, among many other sites.

Your guide will connect you to Salzburg with plenty of historical insights. This tour is fabulous for enjoying a more local side of Salzburg, as well as for ticking off the top tourist attractions.

Small Group VIP Daytour To Salzburg By Train From Munich

This is a top tour for ticking off all things Mozart and Sound of Music related! Meeting at 9am, you’ll head to Salzburg with your small group via a regional train. Once you arrive, your insightful guide will take you on a 1.5 hour guided tour to acquaint you with Salzburg.

Once grounded, you’ll enjoy 3 hours of free time to explore the city. This tour included tours of Salzburg Cathedral and Mozart Residence, stops at a local restaurant, Mirabell Palace and Gardens and the Sound of Music World Museum.

This is a top choice for navigating through tourist crowds and saves you the hassle of doing this yourself.

Salzburg’s Old Town Private 1-Day Trip From Munich By Car

If a private tour driving Munich to Salzburg is what you’re looking for, this is one to consider.

With this road trip Munich to Salzburg, you can choose a hotel pickup and be taken to Salzburg via the scenic, mountainous route. You won’t need to worry how far from Munich to Salzburg as all the transport is organised for you.

This tour includes a 5 star rated local guide and takes you to top spots around Salzburg including one of the best Sound of Music filming locations- Mirabell Gardens – as well as Hohensalzburg Fortress, Collegiate Church and other Sound of Music filming locations. You’ll also see the wonderful Salzburg Cathedral.

The downside is that this is a very expensive tour and lunch is not included. The better option is the private tour above, but if that’s booked out, this one could be your go to.

Culinary And History Salzburg Day Trip From Munich

Food is a great way to immerse yourself in a culture and this is true in Salzburg. With this tour you’ll get to sample some of the best flavours around Salzburg including many which are centuries old. It’s a fascinating look into Salzburg’s history.

You’ll sample Austria’s famous chocolate cake at Cafe Sache, sip local beer, taste delicious schnitzel and more. The tour price includes includes lunch, snacks and drinks.

History is a big part of this tour and you’ll also enjoy a guided tour of both Mozart’s Birth House and Fortress Hohensalzburg. There’s also ample time to walk and discover this beautiful city yourself.

The tour departs Munich Central Station and returns there with round rail transfers included.

Munich Salzburg Day Trip Itinerary

If you decide to make your day trip to Salzburg from Munich independently, you need to come up with an itinerary to make the most of your day.

To make this easier for you, you can use the following for your day trip Munich Salzburg itinerary. It assumes you arrive in Salzburg about 10am and leave about 5pm.

Fortress Hohensalzburg

Visible from all around Salzburg, this stunning castle started as a fort around 1077 before being transformed into a castle in the early 16th century. It is an imposing site, perched on top of the hill and offers great views of the city from above.

We recommend starting your day trip here as it gets busy throughout the day. It can be reached either on foot or by the Fortress Funicular in under a minute. Spend about an hour exploring the interior of this medieval castle before heading back to the Old Town.

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it’s worth spending some time walking around here. Most of the tourist attractions are centered in this part of town.

Salzburg Cathedral

This is one of the top attractions in all of Salzburg. Located in the Old Town, the site has housed a cathedral since the 8th century. The current cathedral was built in the early 17th century.

It is an incredible architectural piece both inside and out with an intricate design, high ceilings, white marble walls and stunning frescoes.

The Salzburg Cathedral sits beside Residence Square, the largest in Salzburg and is worth wandering around.

Getreidegasse

This is the main shopping street of Salzburg and is located in the Old Town. It’s a busy street with plenty of shops and foot traffic. There are decorative signs above most of the shops which are worth looking out for. This is also where the birth house of Mozart is located.

You’ll also want to stop at Cafe-Konditorei Fürst on this street. This chocolate shop is famous for selling Mozart Balls – a pistachio, nougat and marzipan chocolate ball. A must try!

Mozart’s Birthplace

For classical music or history lovers, a visit to Mozart’s birthplace is a must. Even if you’re not a lover of those things, it’s still worth seeing as it’s located on the aforementioned shopping street of Getreidegasse.

Mozart’s family lived on the third floor of this building. Today, there’s a small museum inside with old furniture and information on his life and music.

With so much exploring you’re sure to work up an appetite. We recommend trying some of the more local dishes whilst in Salzburg such as Tafelspitz, which is boiled beef, or schnitzel (crumbed and fried meat).

There are many top rated restaurants in the Old Town like Zipfer Bierhaus or Sternbräu. Wash it down with a beer, and then head to a local café for a dessert of chocolate cake and coffee.

Mirabell Palace And Gardens

This is a famous Sound of Music filming location and one of the most visited spots in Salzburg.

Built in the early 17th century, this stunning palace is still partly accessible inside and worth visiting. The garden outside the palace is equally stunning to walk around and the site of some famous Sound of Music scenes. You’ll want to see Pegasus Fountain, the Musical Steps, the Gnome Garden and the Hedge Tunnel.

Sound Of Music Tour

You may also consider joining a four hour Sound of Music Tour. These tours are super popular and take you to some of the top filming locations like Lake District, Hellbrunner Street, Leopoldskron Palace and more.

Whether you can do this tour will depend on how quickly you get through the list above. You might need to choose between Mirabell Palace and Gardens and Fortress Hohensalzburg if you want to fit it in.

Travelling Back To Munich From Salzburg

If you choose to do a Munich to Salzburg day tour, you won’t have to worry about this. But otherwise, you need to travel back again.

You can choose to drive, bus or train again. It’s easiest to pick the same method as you took to get here.

If you drive from Salzburg to Munich, you’ll follow the same route as you came. From Salzburg, drive on the A1 until you reach the border, and then continue on the A8 until you cover the distance from Salzburg to Munich.

If you’re travelling via bus, the last FlixBus departs Salzburg South at 8:55pm.

Trains depart Salzburg from Salzburg Main Station. The last train to Munich departs at 11pm, but the express trains, including Railjet, leave earlier than that. It’s best to plan ahead.

Final Words

We hope we have answered all your of questions like how far is Munich from Salzburg and how to do a day trip here.

Visiting Salzburg is probably one of the top day trips you can do from Munich, and whilst you can’t cover everything in Salzburg in one day, having a good plan (or tour) will help you to make the most out of your day trip to Salzburg.

Find more information on all the best things to do in southern Germany here.

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By Sharon Gourlay

Sharon first fell in love with Germany back in 2000 on her first visit. She loves the long history, the picturesque Old Towns, the castles, the food, everything really! Since then, she has visited many times and loves writing about Germany here so you can enjoy it too. In fact, Sharon loves German culture so much that she sent her kids to a German primary school in Australia. She especially loves Berlin and towns with charming Old Towns like Celle and Quedlinburg. Sharon also has a Certificate III in International Travel Sales and understands the nitty gritty of travel planning. Through this site, she'll help you have the perfect trip to Germany whether it's your first or tenth time!

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Salzburg Sightseeing Small-Group Day Tour from Munich by Rail

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How to Squeeze in a Day Trip to Salzburg from Munich

Last Updated: October 13, 2023 //  by  Ashley Smith 11 Comments

Take a day trip to Salzburg from Munich–Salzburg, Austria being a city known for many things. Like… well, how about… okay, so maybe Salzburg is known for just one major thing: The Sound of Music . It’s where the movie was filmed; it’s where the movie takes place; and it’s where I went this year to escape Germany’s Oktoberfestivities for a day.

You know what’s great about attending Oktoberfest in Munich ? Well, everything. But will you need a break from it? Absolutely—don’t be a hero.

Salzburg is just an easy hour and a half from Munich, has enough sights of its own to entertain you, and still has beer since it’s not time to completely dry out yet (this is just a break ; not a break up ). And that’s what makes a day trip to Salzburg from Munich such a splendid idea.

At the bottom of this post you’ll find a  free printable guide to take with you to Salzburg. It covers the basics of how to take a day trip from Munich to Salzburg, some helpful tips, and recommended products.

This post was originally published in 2018 but has been updated for 2023.

Table of Contents

Day trip to Salzburg from Munich

Do you need to be a fan of The Sound of Music to enjoy a day trip to Salzburg from Munich? Definitely, 100%, no. Even though you probably are because it’s not terrible. But will it help to watch it at least once beforehand? Well, obviously. You still want to be an informed human being, right? And ladies, if you’re husband isn’t up for it, just tell him it’s a WWII film. Totally works.

A day trip to Salzburg from Munich is easy to navigate , a necessary pilgrimage for The Sound of Music fans, and I have confidence you’ll find it totally worth squeezing into your busy travel schedule.

Check out the entire list of best day trips from Munich in that link!

How to get to Salzburg from Munich

As you can see from this map I slaved over, Munich (yellow) and Salzburg (red) are fairly close together despite being in separate countries. By far, the easiest and fastest way to take a day trip to Salzburg from Munich is by train. Germany’s awesome public transportation system makes this day trip simple and painless.

Train tickets on Germany’s Deutsche Bahn can be purchased in advance and, actually, the sooner you get them the cheaper they are. DB offers special “Saver Fares” and, if you’re early enough, “Super Saver Fares” that are only available in limited quantities just waiting to be snatched up.

Step 1: head to Bahn.com

Bahn.com is the official (English-language version) website for Germany’s Deutsche Bahn railway. I’ve tried other sites like GoEuro, etc. but the prices and schedules have always been the exact same.

In this case, I always prefer to book transportation directly with the company that will be transporting me rather than through a third party. The less of a chance of my reservations–and therefore, me–getting lost, the better, imo.

Step 2: Fill in the timetable with the following:

From: Munich (München) – This is Munich’s main train station, the Hauptbahnhof

To: Salzburg Hbf – This is Salzburg’s main train station, the Hauptbahnhof. If you haven’t figured it out yet, “hauptbahnhof” is German for “the main train station of whatever city we’re talking about.”

Date: The date you plan to take this day trip and the time you want to leave. Personally, I took the 7:24 am train because I wanted to make sure I could get in a full day in Salzburg but also because I’m a masochist. And apparently also a sadist because I dragged my husband along with me. MWAHhAHAH.

Time of your return journey:  It’s absolutely possible to make this day trip to Salzburg from Munich and return to Munich in the same day. That’s what I did and we know I only make the wisest of choices.

If that’s the case for you, keep the date the same and change the time. Remember: enter your return time according to the 24-hour clock. Arriving at 8 am and leaving at 9 am is more ambitious than even I’m willing to attempt. Well, maybe. Hmmm…

Step 3: Fill out the rest.

Obviously check “Prefer fast connections” because why wouldn’t you? Well, it doesn’t matter anyway because there won’t be any connections on this trip.  Enter number of travelers , etc. and check whether you want 2nd class or 1st class. (The ride is pretty short; this part doesn’t really matter.)

Step 4: Submit and choose your itinerary by each leg.

There are a couple of things you should know about your Deutsche Bahn train ticket that will save you a couple of small headaches, like:

You don’t need your train ticket printed out (though, if you have a printer, it definitely doesn’t hurt to have a backup). Having the ticket saved on your phone is perfectly acceptable. Save it as a PDF and/or as a screenshot to save time and the hassle of trying to load it.

Also, regardless of how many people are traveling with you, you will get one ticket (if you booked them all at the same time, that is). If you put “2 travellers” on the initial timetable, and saw “2 Adults” on the confirmation page, your one ticket will cover two people.

Step 5: Wait

Then wait, little girl, on an empty stage train platform for fate the conductor to turn the light on.

Inside Munich’s main train station, the Deutsche Bahn trains are found in the huge main area of the train station. Like, right when you walk in off the street, they’re the platforms that are Right. There.

The trip takes anywhere between an hour and a half and an hour and forty-five minutes depending on which train you choose and it’s a smooth, beautiful ride through the Bavarian countryside.

If your day trip to Salzburg from Munich is also happening during Oktoberfest, be sure to check out my post on all my top Oktoberfest tips with super detailed information!

Day trip to Salzburg from Munich the easy way

Okay so you’ve arrived in Salzburg, yay! You didn’t get on the wrong train and accidentally end up in France! Fantastic. Now, first things first: pick up a Salzburg Card.

The Salzburg Card is going to really simplify your day trip to Salzburg from Munich. It’s going to save you money, time, and, most importantly, hassle.

I love, love, love sightseeing passes (as I continue to mention on this blog) so I was thrilled to discover Salzburg offered one as well. Skipping the lines, skipping the walking, and skipping having to get my wallet out constantly? These are a few of my favorite things!

When you’re trying to see all you can in a city in a single day, being a travel VIP is going to make everything run much more efficiently.

What is the Salzburg card?

The Salzburg Card is a single, low-cost pass that gets you:

• Free admission into all tourist attractions and museums in Salzburg
• …along with skip-the-line privileges
• Free travel on all modes of public transportation
• A free river cruise, one of my must-do activities when I travel
• Extra discounts around town, and more

Picking up your Salzburg card

Salzburg’s tourist information center couldn’t be easier to find—it’s right there in the Salzburg Hauptbahnhof, mere steps from the train you just arrived on.

Here, you can purchase your Salzburg Card or, if you’ve planned ahead, pick up the one you’ve already purchased using your printed out voucher.

The Salzburg Card is available in 24-, 48-, and 72-hour increments but, since this is called “Day Trip to Salzburg from Munich,” you’re just going to need the 24-hour version . Do, re, mi, fa, so, la, let’s go!

What to do in Salzburg on a day trip

Let’s start at the very beginning, a very good place to start. When you read you begin with A-B-C, and when you visit Salzburg you begin at Mozart’s Birthplace, the former residence of Austria’s most famous child prodigy.

Mozart’s Birthplace

I want to start by mentioning that there are two Mozart-related sites in Salzburg: Mozart’s Birthplace and Mozart’s Residence , both being places he once lived.

(Hundreds of years from now, maybe people will be streaming through my house. “And here’s the couch from which she binge-watched Stranger Things that one time. And here’s where she rode a Segway through the house and crashed.” )

Both sites are open to the public but, with only one day to spend in Salzburg, I decided to choose just one. After doing some research and asking around as to which was I should visit, Mozart’s Birthplace won the popular vote. Thank you, democracy.

Why visit Mozart’s birthplace?

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart is the most famous child prodigy in history , Olsen twins aside. By the age of four the kid was already skilled at the piano, the violin, and musical composition. FOUR, for crying out loud.

According to WebMD, today’s babies are just learning to correctly identify shapes and colors and “possibly write his or her name” at the age of four. Something about this Mozart kid is truly science fiction-y. Like, he’s clearly from the Upside-Down.

The museum won’t take you a long time to go through. Because, well, houses were smaller back in the 1790s. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

It houses a large collection of Mozart-related artifacts— among them, more than just a couple locks of his hair. Juuuust in case they want to clone some more baby geniuses at some point, I guess.

Salzburg Cathedral

Every European capital has its big beautiful church, and this is Salzburg’s. Salzburg Cathedral , considered the centerpiece of Salzburg, was founded in the year 744 (no ‘1’ in front, just 744) but the Baroque version you’ll visit today was constructed between 1614 and 1628.

Why visit Salzburg Cathedral?

• The place is GORGEOUS inside.
• Inside is the baptismal font used to baptize both Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart in 1791, and Joseph Mohr, the guy who wrote the lyrics to “Silent Night,” in 1792.
• By the way, that baptismal font is from the year 1311.
• There’s also a cathedral museum containing art treasures from the cathedral’s 1300-year history.

Salzburg Castle / Hohensalzburg Fortress

Salzburg Castle —formally/German-ly known as Hohensalzburg Fortress—sits high above the city and is one of the largest (and most well preserved) medieval castles in Europe.

It was built in the year 1077 and offers visitors a look into true medieval torture—the marionette museum. Admission to the castle and the funicular ride to the top are free with the Salzburg Card but a visit to the marionette museum is going to cost you many sleepless nights. It’s like they want you to run away and never look back?

Why visit Salzburg Castle?

• The views! Salzburg Castle’s location atop Festungsberg (that’s the name of the hill it’s on, adorable) provides visitors the absolute best views of Salzburg to one side, the Alps on the other.
• You don’t have to climb every mountain. Your Salzburg Card gets you a free trip to the top (and back) on the funicular railway. Grab a spot in the front of the bottom car for the best experience.
• Explore on your own. You’re free to roam the castle grounds completely self-guided but make sure you have a hand to hold in the marionette museum.
• Have a brew with a view at the on-site beer garden.

Lunch at Gasthaus Wilder Mann

How do you solve a problem like hunger? Are you always late for everything except for every meal? Well, roam around town until the cutest little eatery strikes your fancy.

Such is how we found Gasthaus Wilder Mann in a secluded little courtyard that seemed completely unknown. That is, until later when a giant tour group came in and we became the subject of much German description. No idea.

Why have lunch at Gathaus Wilder Mann?

• Apparently it’s noteworthy? Perhaps having something to do with the “wild man” whom the place was named after? I feel like there’s probably a great story there.
• It’s friggin’ adorable, offers indoor and outdoor seating, and feels very homey.
• The food and service were both great – Rolled hot ham Austrian style + Stewed beef goulash

Salzburg river cruise

Taking river cruises is one of my favorite things to do when visiting a new city. They typically only take about an hour, are inexpensive (if not free), and are a totally unique way to see the sights (without having to get off your butt because you just ate the heaviest meal in Austria). The Salzburg river cruise boards right in the center of town under the Makart Bridge.

Why take a Salzburg river cruise?

• It’s totally free with your Salzburg Card! Give your legs a rest for an hour and enjoy a from-the-water tour of Salzburg – there’s even a bar on board.
• The guided tour takes you past Salzburg Castle and the Alps, and your guide will point out different spots from The Sound of Music along the way.
• Learning about the Salzach River and the boat you’re on (the Amadeus ) is super interesting, promise.
• There’s a special surprise at the end that I won’t ruin for you. But it’s gonna rock .

Mirabell Palace and Gardens

The Mirabell Palace was built in 1606 as a “pleasure palace” for Prince-Archbishop Wolf Dietrich Raitenau and his mistress and I think that’s as far as we need to go with that description, hmm?

Over time it changed royal hands a few times, served as the wedding venue for Eva Braun’s sister and as a filming location for The Sound of Music , and eventually became the mayor’s office after WWII.

The “pleasure gardens” as you’ll see them still today were designed in 1690, though they weren’t open to the public until much later. The gardens consist of the massive floral arrangements, a rose garden, an orangery, a hedge theater, fountains, and a dwarf garden—apparently the oldest “dwarf garden” in Europe, so that’s a thing.

Why visit Mirabell Palace and Gardens?

• Great views! You can find great views of Salzburg Castle and the city of Salzburg from the “Angel Staircase” that leads to the gardens.
• Beautiful floral arrangements that are best seen by only the tallest of visitors
• To prance around and Sound of Music your ass off (This is where the “Do-Re-Mi” portion of the movie was filmed. But why am I telling you? You already know this.)
• The statuary is pretty fascinating —all mythological creatures and, I’m guessing these are the dwarves of which they speak?

Stiegl Brewery

Salzburg’s Stiegl brewery has been around since 1492—can your country even say that?—and is Austria’s biggest privately-owned brewery.

Stiegl—German for “little staircase”—is a massive facility on the outskirts of town that’s easily accessed by city bus or even by your own two feet if misreading maps is your standard operating procedure as well.

To get to the Stiegl Brewery

Take either the #1 or #10 bus and get off on the “Bräuhausstraße” stop. On foot, just follow Google maps but know that she pretty much sucks at estimating arrival times and your ability to follow spoken directions.

Why visit Stiegl Brewery?

• A Stiegl brewery tour is included in the Salzburg Card and they’re even available in English. (Unlike my last German brewery disaster .)
• Learn how beer is made and the history of beer culture in Austria.
• Your free tour includes a couple of free gifts and, more importantly, free beer ! I must have done something good.
• There’s an on-site beer garden and restaurant if you want to stay longer.

If you’re interested in pretty little Alpine side trips, also check out my post on how to spend 2 days in Liechtenstein . This is my new favorite country and if you like Salzburg, I think you’ll like Vaduz as well.

Salzburg City Center / Getreidegasse

Salzburg’s historic city center lies between the Salzach River and the Festungsberg in what has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site .

It’s said to be the meeting point of Northern and Southern Europe as well as the place where German and Italian cultures met. Salzburg city center is noteworthy because of how well its medieval structures have held up over time, its association with its most famous resident (Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus), and for having the fanciest McDonald’s sign you ever did see.

Why visit Salzburg City Center?

• It’s in Salzburg’s city center than you can load up on all those chocolates with Mozart’s face on them. I’m not a chocolate fan (I know *gasp*, bring out the torches!) so I wasn’t interested but I’ve since had those things mentioned to me numerous times. Did I miss out on something phenomenal? Please advise.
• Salzburg city center’s Getreidegasse is where most of the restaurants, cafes, and shops are. So if you’re hungry, thirsty, and/or have money in your pocket to burn, this is the area for you.

Mozartplatz

In the center of Salzburg’s historical district you’ll find Mozartplatz , a large plaza featuring a bronze cast of the boy genius. Only, as a grown up. His wife once lived in this square but today it’s mainly just a great meeting point, being the center of town that it is, and home to Salzburg’s other tourism office.

Why visit Mozartplatz?

• To see the statue of Mozart – This bronze statue was unveiled in 1842 in the presence of Mozart’s sons and their inferiority complexes.
• To enjoy a relaxing end to your day trip to Salzburg from Munich. After my husband’s request to “sit somewhere with a view of the castle,” we ended up at Café Glockenspiel , the perfect spot for some weenies and beers and strudel… with a view of the castle.

Optional Salzburg day tours

Even with everything I did during my day trip to Salzburg from Munich, I had still plenty of time left for more and you probably will too (seeing as how no one is a slower drinker than I am). If you’re the kind of person who loves taking tours on your trips,  check out these Salzburg exclusives:

The Original Sound of Music Tour

I heard about this tour, oh, a million times before my trip to Salzburg. This famous tour takes you to many of  The Sound of Music ‘s filming locations around Salzburg (including the Mirabell Gardens), has superb ratings, and  even offers an afternoon departure for us day-trippers .

Salzburg Old Town Highlights Private Walking Tour

With your own 5-star expert private guide you'll get to explore many of the sites mentioned in this post and more.

This is a perfect way to see and learn about Salzburg without having to follow a crowd or miss any of the information.

Best of Mozart Concert at Salzburg Castle

One thing I wish I’d done during my day in Austria was catch at concert. These Mozart concerts at Salzburg Castle are one of the city’s most popular events and are likely to sell out.

It’s a fancy concert in a castle on a hill, hello?! The hills are alive with the sound of music, clearly.

Eagle's Nest in Berchtesgaden Tour from Salzburg

If I had just a wee bit more time (or, you know, maybe hadn’t  walked  to the Stiegl Brewery) I would’ve booked a side trip to Berchtesgaden in a heartbeat.

The Eagle’s Nest, a playhouse of sorts for Hitler & Co., sits atop a mountain in the Alps and is only accessible via bus tour or a 2-hour hike.

So long, farewell, auf wiedersehen, adieu!

How to Take a Day Trip to Salzburg from Munich

Salzburg, Austria is a quick and easy train ride from Munich, Germany and a day trip is the perfect way to sample Salzburg. It's an especially incredible experience for Sound of Music fans.

• This printed out guide
• Deutsche Bahn train tickets
• List of preferred Salzburg sites
• Salzburg guide book
• Salzburg Card - 24 hours

Instructions

• Purchase Deutsche Bahn train tickets from Munich to Salzburg as much in advance as possible. See buying instructions at the top of this post.
• Take the train from Munich Hauptbahnhof (sometimes listed as München Hbf) to Salzburg Hauptbahnhof (Salzburg Hbf) early in the morning.

• Include the wildly popular Original Sound of Music tour in your day if you're a fan.
• At the end of the day, return to Munich from Salzburg Hauptbahnhof at your scheduled time.

All details, links, and helpful screenshots can be found at mywanderlustylife.com/day-trip-to-salzburg-from-munich.

Happy day tripping!

Recommended Products

This section may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate and member of other affiliate programs, I earn from qualifying purchases.

More info for your day trip to Salzburg from Munich

• Want to stay overnight? Read reviews and find great places to stay in Salzburg on Booking.com and Expedia .
• Want to drive there? Check out the best Munich rental car deals here.
• Looking for more? Pick up a Salzburg guidebook .
• And this must-have Austria customs and culture guide . (Also available for Germany .)
• Want more #TimeBudgetTravel itineraries? Check out these posts .

Save this info, pin this image:

Big thank you to Salzburg Tourism for providing me with a Salzburg Card so I could help relay the best ways to spend a day trip to Salzburg from Munich!

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About Ashley Smith

Ashley is a historian and Oktoberfest expert & tour guide. She has traveled to 32 countries and specializes in quick trips throughout Europe and the Americas that prioritize hiking adventures, museums of all kinds, cultural experiences, and jam-packed itineraries. She hails from Memphis, TN and currently lives in Boston with her husband and two feline sidekicks.

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