How to Spend TWO DAYS in Salzburg, Austria: 2-Day Itinerary

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Planning a couple of days in Salzburg? Let’s make them unforgettable!

From grand baroque landmarks and cozy cafés to Sound of Music nostalgia and scenic alpine views, Salzburg delivers charm at every turn. But with only two days, planning is key. That’s where we come in!

After exploring this city more times than we can count, we’ve crafted a flexible yet thoughtful itinerary to help you see all the highlights without rushing, while still leaving room for spontaneous local discoveries. Whether you’re brand new to the city or coming back for more, this guide will help you savor every moment of your escape. Onward to Salzburg!

Itinerary Overview

Two days in Salzburg are just enough to take in its baroque beauty, musical roots, and Alpine charm. The compact, walkable Old Town is a UNESCO-listed maze of cobbled streets and pastel facades, with the fortress towering above it all. 

Most sights are easily explored on foot, and public buses or taxis can fill in the gaps—no rental car is needed. Whether you’re here for history, The Sound of Music, or the mountain views, this itinerary blends iconic highlights with relaxed local moments.

• Day 1: Begin with coffee at Espresso Fabrizi, then tour Fortress Hohensalzburg before enjoying a riverside lunch at Café Bazar. Spend the afternoon exploring the Old Town on a private walking tour, take a beer break at Augustiner Bräu, and end the day with a Mozart dinner concert at the fortress.

• Day 2: Spend the morning on either a Sound of Music tour or visiting the Berchtesgaden Salt Mines, followed by lunch at Braurestaurant IMLAUER. In the afternoon, explore at your own pace—climb to a viewpoint, stroll the river, or visit a museum—then wrap up with a cooking class and live music in the Old Town.

Day 1

Breakfast – Espresso Fabrizi

Espresso Fabrizi is the kind of place that instantly feels like a neighborhood favorite—even if it’s your first time in Salzburg. Tucked just outside the bustle of the old town, this modern café has a stylish yet laid-back vibe, with friendly staff who know their beans, and a crowd that seems to genuinely love being there.

Their espresso is smooth and bold (as it should be), but it’s the croissant sandwiches and flaky pastries that really surprised us. We grabbed a quick breakfast here before heading off to our morning tour—it’s just a short walk to the fortress, which made it super convenient. 

Morning – Tour the Fortress Hohensalzburg (Salzburg Fortress)

Rising above the city skyline, Fortress Hohensalzburg is one of the largest and best-preserved medieval castles in Europe, and it’s too fascinating to skip. Built in 1077 by Archbishop Gebhard, it served both as a military stronghold and a residence for Salzburg’s powerful prince-archbishops. While you’ll return here tonight for a special evening out, that visit doesn’t include a tour, so this morning is your chance to really explore it.

It’s easy to visit on your own with the all-inclusive ticket (€18), which you can book online in advance here. The pass covers the funicular ride to the top, the castle grounds, museums, princely rooms, and even a quirky Magic Theater. The fortress opens at 8:30 am, so head up early to enjoy the views before the crowds arrive. Plan on spending about 2–3 hours here, soaking up the history and taking in the incredible panoramic scenery.

Lunch – Café Bazar

After a morning of castle towers and panoramic views, Café Bazar is a perfect place to slow down and recharge. Located right along the Salzach River, this historic café has been a local favorite for over a century, once frequented by the likes of Stefan Zweig and Max Reinhardt. With its classic Viennese-style interior and shaded outdoor terrace, it’s just the kind of place that invites you to linger a little longer than planned.

We stopped in for an early lunch on our way to our afternoon tour meeting point. The menu is light and elegant—think soups, salads, and seasonal specials—with a pastry counter that’s hard to resist. Whether you sit indoors among marble-topped tables or outside with views of the fortress, it’s a scenic, restful pause before diving into Salzburg’s cultural side.

Afternoon – See Old Town Salzburg’s highlights with a private guide

After lunch, it’s time to dive into Salzburg’s rich history and architecture with this private walking tour of the Old Town and trust us, this one’s worth carving out time for. We’re big fans of walking tours in general, but this experience truly stood out thanks to the guide’s deep local knowledge and the tour’s flexibility. 

You can choose anywhere from 2 to 6 hours, depending on your schedule, but we highly recommend the 3 or 4-hour option at 1 pm. It includes everything from Mozart’s birthplace to hidden courtyards, plus a guided visit inside the breathtaking Salzburg Cathedral. The pacing hits that sweet spot between an immersive cultural deep-dive and a relaxed afternoon that doesn’t feel rushed.

The best part is that everything is tailored to your interests and moves at your pace, which makes it feel more like spending an afternoon with a passionate local than following a rigid script. We covered all the major highlights, including Kollegienkirche, and the Mirabell Gardens, while also picking up stories and insights we never would’ve found on our own. 

It’s a fantastic way to get your bearings in the city and appreciate the layers of history behind every baroque façade. And it’s clear we’re not the only ones who loved it—just check out the glowing five-star reviews here to see why this tour is such a hit!

Check out options and prices for this private tour here!

Mid-afternoon – Stop by a historic brewery

After all that walking, we were more than ready for a break, and there’s no better place to recharge than Augustiner Bräu Kloster Mülln, one of Salzburg’s most iconic and historic breweries. Founded by Augustinian monks in 1621, this beloved spot still pours beer from wooden barrels into traditional stone mugs, just like it has for centuries.

The tour wraps up around 4 or 5 pm (depending on which tour you chose), and with your evening plans starting at 6:30 pm, you’ve got just enough time to enjoy a pint and soak in the relaxed local atmosphere. It’s about a 15- to 20-minute walk from the tour endpoint near Marktfrauen-Brunnen, and totally worth it, whether you find a spot in the lively beer hall or unwind in the leafy beer garden. Or, if you’d rather take it slow, this is also a good window to head back to your hotel and get ready for tonight.

Evening/dinner – See a Mozart concert at the Salzburg Fortress

To cap off your first day in Salzburg, treat yourself to an unforgettable evening of Austrian cuisine and classical music—all set inside the majestic Fortress Hohensalzburg. This romantic dinner and concert experience begins at 6:30 pm with a scenic funicular ride (included with your ticket) up to the fortress, which dates back to 1077 and offers sweeping views of the city as the sun begins to set.

Dinner is served in one of the fortress’s elegant historic rooms, where you’ll enjoy traditional Austrian dishes in a truly atmospheric setting. The vaulted ceilings, candlelit ambiance, and centuries-old architecture make the entire experience feel like stepping back in time.

But the real magic begins after the meal when the sounds of Mozart’s most beloved compositions fill the halls, performed live by internationally acclaimed soloists. Given that Mozart was born in Salzburg, hearing his music performed in such a meaningful location adds a special emotional weight to the evening.

You can choose from a few different ticket packages depending on where you’d like to sit and the type of dining experience you prefer—some even include drinks and panoramic terrace seating. No matter which option you go with, this is one of those evenings that lingers in your memory long after the final note fades!

Book this popular experience here and get FREE cancellation before you go!

Day 2

Morning – “The Sound of Music” film locations or Salt Mines

This morning kicks off with two half-day tours, each offering a unique way to experience Salzburg. You can either follow in the footsteps of The Sound of Music or venture underground to explore the historic Berchtesgaden Salt Mines. Both options wrap up by early afternoon, leaving plenty of time for lunch and more exploring, and both offer an unforgettable glimpse into the region’s culture, history, and cinematic charm.

Option 1: Visit the film locations from “The Sound of Music”

If you grew up watching The Sound of Music, this filming location tour is practically a Salzburg rite of passage. We joined the 9:15 am to 1:15 pm tour, and from the moment we boarded the bus, it was like stepping into the movie. With the soundtrack playing softly in the background and fellow fans humming along, the vibe was both nostalgic and joyful.

You’ll visit Mirabell Gardens, where the famous “Do-Re-Mi” scene was filmed, and the gazebo at Hellbrunn Palace, where “Sixteen Going on Seventeen” came to life. We even stopped in the lakeside town of Mondsee, where the wedding scene was filmed at the cathedral. The scenery was just as stunning in person as it is on screen—maybe even more so.

While the tour centers around The Sound of Music, it also doubles as a scenic exploration of Salzburg and the surrounding countryside, including parts of the gorgeous Lake District. Even if you’re not a superfan, the landscapes alone are worth the trip—rolling hills, glassy lakes, and charming villages that feel pulled from a storybook.

It was easily one of the most fun and surprisingly emotional experiences we had in Austria, especially when the whole group started singing “My Favorite Things” together on the ride back. It’s no wonder this tour is such a hit with visitors from around the world—just check out the thousands of five-star reviews here and see for yourself!

This popular tour sells out fast—book early and snag your seat here!

Option 2: Explore the Berchtesgaden Salt Mines

Prefer something a little more adventurous? Then this Berchtesgaden Salt Mines tour is the one to go for. This half-day trip starts at 8:45 am and wraps up by 12:45 pm, making it a perfect alternative if musicals aren’t your thing.

Located just across the border in Germany, the salt mines here have been active for over 450 years, and you’ll get to explore them wearing traditional miners’ gear. 

From the underground train ride that whisks you through narrow tunnels, to the wooden slides that take you deeper into the mine, the whole experience is unexpectedly fun and interactive. A definite highlight was gliding across the underground Mirror Lake on a raft—it felt completely surreal.

We also appreciated how informative the tour was without being overly technical. Our guide kept it light, engaging, and fun for all ages—kids on the tour especially loved the slides. You’ll also have a bit of free time to explore Berchtesgaden, a charming Bavarian town with mountain views and alpine vibes. And hey, since it’s just over the border, you can even say you popped over to Germany for the morning!

Whether you’re looking to beat the heat or just want to experience something unique, this is a crowd-pleaser. Just be sure to reserve this one ahead—it’s a popular tour for good reason!

Check out the HUNDREDS of 5-star reviews and book this tour here!

Lunch – Braurestaurant IMLAUER

By the time your morning tour wraps up, you’ll be more than ready for a hearty lunch, and Braurestaurant IMLAUER is just the spot. Conveniently located only a 7-minute walk from the bus station where both tours begin and end, it’s an easy and satisfying stop before heading into the afternoon.

The menu leans traditional with a modern touch—think schnitzel, bratwurst, and goulash, alongside lighter salads and seasonal dishes. We grabbed a table in their cozy beer hall-style dining room and were impressed not only by the food but also by the warm, welcoming service. Plus, it’s a working brewery, so you might as well try one of their house beers while you’re there!

Afternoon – Explore on your own

After a full morning of tours and a satisfying lunch, the afternoon is yours to explore at your own pace. Whether you’re up for a little physical activity, want to soak in the scenery, or prefer a bit of indoor culture, there’s something for every travel style. 

Kapuzinerberg View

If you’re in the mood for a scenic adventure, head up to Kapuzinerberg, a forested hill that rises just opposite the fortress. The hike takes about 30 minutes and is definitely a workout—it’s a steep climb with a good number of steps, so it’s best for those with a moderate fitness level. 

But once you reach the top, the panoramic views over Salzburg’s Old Town and the distant Alps make every step worth it. It’s one of the most peaceful and picturesque spots in the city and a great escape from the crowds below.

Stroll along the Salzach River

If you’d prefer something a little more relaxed, a walk along the Salzach River is a lovely way to spend your afternoon. Paved paths on both sides of the river offer easy walking and postcard-worthy views of Salzburg’s skyline, framed by the fortress and distant mountains. You can start from the Staatsbrücke or Makartsteg footbridge and simply follow the path as long as you’d like. There are plenty of benches along the way, perfect for taking a break or snapping a few photos.

Check out a museum

Looking for something indoors or maybe a bit more educational? Salzburg has no shortage of museums to choose from. Dive into art and history at the DomQuartier Salzburg, explore Mozart’s story at the Mozart Residence, or get interactive at the Natural History Museum. 

If you’re into contemporary art and don’t mind a hilltop location, the Museum of Modern Art offers both great exhibits and one of the best panoramic views in the city from its terrace café. Most are located within or near the Old Town, so it’s easy to pick one that fits your interests and your energy level.

Late Afternoon – Learn how to cook Austrian apple strudel and nockerl

After a packed day of sightseeing, sometimes you just want to slow down, skip the crowds, and do something hands-on, and this small-group Austrian cooking class is the perfect way to end the day. 

If you’ve ever felt like guided tours start to blend together, this one stands out by letting you roll up your sleeves and dive right into Salzburg’s culinary culture. It kicks off at 4:30 pm, giving you time to unwind and savor the evening.

Led by a friendly and knowledgeable chef, the class is limited to just 15 participants, which means plenty of personal attention and a relaxed, homey vibe. 

You’ll learn to make two classic Austrian desserts—apple strudel and the famously fluffy Salzburger Nockerl—from scratch, with tips and guidance throughout. Stretching the strudel dough and shaping your own sweet creation is part fun, part art, and completely satisfying.

While your desserts bake, you’ll sit down to enjoy a comforting bowl of beef goulash (with vegetarian or vegan options available). It’s a welcome pause and a chance to chat with the other participants and learn all about their travels!

Finally, you’ll get to enjoy the sweet results of your hard work, warm from the oven and every bit as good as they look. It’s interactive, delicious, and a refreshing change of pace—a cozy holiday memory you actually get to taste!

Book this cooking class here and taste the authentic side of Austria!

Related Read: Planning a trip to Eastern Europe? Check out our 3-day Bucharest itinerary here for the perfect mix of history, food, and day trips!

Evening – Enjoy Old Town Salzburg at night

As your final evening in Salzburg winds down, take some time to soak up the magic of the Old Town after dark. The streets are quieter, the lights are warm, and the historic buildings seem to glow under the evening sky. It’s the perfect way to slow your pace, reflect on the past two days, and enjoy Salzburg at its most peaceful.

If you’re feeling hungry, grab a table at Zwettler’s Wirtshaus, a cozy, traditional restaurant tucked just a short walk from the cathedral. It’s a local favorite for hearty Austrian dishes and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere—ideal for one last comforting meal before heading home.

Then, for a fun and easygoing finale, make your way to Bricks Music Bar, a laid-back venue with great drinks and live music most nights of the week. Whether you’re into jazz, soul, or acoustic sets, it’s a great spot to toast your trip and wrap up your Salzburg experience with a little rhythm.

Related Read: Looking for even more ideas for your trip? Check out our guide to the 5 best things to do in Salzburg here for extra inspiration and can’t-miss highlights!

Where to Stay in Salzburg, Austria

Salzburg might be a relatively small city, but it’s certainly not lacking in great places to stay! You’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to historic hotels, luxury stays, or something with a moderate budget. If these hotels still have availability, these are my top three recommendations: 

Luxury – $$$

Hotel Schloss Mönchstein is a fantastic luxury option, situated on a hill overlooking Salzburg’s stunning scenery. The rooms are elegant and furnished with ornate antiques, and you can book a king room or suite style rooms. I especially love the onsite spa, outdoor infinity pool, or indoor hot tub for those cold winter days!

This hotel is a short walk from the Old Town. Rooms start at €450 and can be booked on Booking.com.

Mid-range – $$

Hotel Scherer is a family run hotel in a charming historic building. It’s a short walk from the Old Town area, so it’s a nice quiet stay and they have bicycles to rent. The rooms are modern and simple, but provide everything you need for a comfortable stay. 

Prices start around €120 per night and can be reserved on Booking.com.

Budget – $

The Keep Eco Rooms is an eco-friendly hostel with rooms for up to three people. I love the unique style, the rooms are clean, and every room has a bathroom, some have a balcony too. The hotel is located in Central Salzburg, so you’re close to all the main sights. 

Rooms are available starting at €80 and can be reserved on Booking.com.

For more options, check out all the hotels in Salzburg here!

Related Read: Continuing your travels? Check out our ideal 3-Day Vienna Itinerary for even more iconic Austrian sights!

Renting a Car in Europe

Exploring Europe by car is a fantastic way to uncover hidden gems—think charming villages, scenic countryside, and off-the-beaten-path spots that trains and buses might miss. Driving here is generally straightforward, but it’s good to be prepared for some regional quirks.

We always use Discover Cars to book our rentals and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare prices, check company ratings, find automatic cars (which can be tricky in Europe!), and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.

Tips for Renting a Car in Europe

• Know the local rules: Most countries drive on the right, except the UK, Ireland, Cyprus, and Malta. Road signs and driving laws can vary, so do a quick check before you go.
• Practice defensive driving: In parts of Europe, especially in the south, driving can feel fast-paced and a little unpredictable. Make sure you stay alert and keep a safe following distance.
• Insurance is essential: I highly recommend adding full coverage insurance to your rental. Whether it’s a parking lot ding or a chipped windshield on a mountain road, full protection gives you peace of mind. Plus, it’s super affordable through Discover Cars!
• Pick the right vehicle: Most rentals in Europe are manual, and automatic cars are limited, so book early if that’s what you need. A compact car is also ideal for narrow roads and tight parking. On Discover Cars, you can easily filter for everything you need.
• Watch for restricted zones: Many cities have low-emission or restricted traffic zones. Driving into these without a permit can result in fines, so always check local rules if you’re heading into a city center.
• Be prepared for border crossings: While crossing borders is usually easy within the Schengen Zone, some rental companies require you to declare your travel plans in advance. Always check with Discover Cars if you’re planning to drive into another country.

What You Need to Rent a Car in Europe

• A valid driver’s license from your home country.
• If you’re from outside the EU, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended—and in some countries, it’s legally required.
• A credit card in the driver’s name is typically needed for the security deposit.
• Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old. If you’re under 25, expect a young driver surcharge—and in some countries, the minimum age may be higher.

Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring Europe on your own terms!

Thanks for reading!

If you like history, stunning architecture, and mountainous landscapes, you will soon fall in love with Salzburg – we certainly did! This two-day itinerary is quick, but packed full of Salzburg’s top sights so you can make the most of your time.

If you need help planning more of your travels, check out our other Europe blogs. We have more city itineraries, top things to do, and guides on where to stay to help you plan an epic holiday. Here are a few related blogs to get you started – cheers!

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