Austria

Salzburg

Austria

Salzburg

Updated Fri, Aug 15, 2025
Salzburg, Austria

Overview

Salzburg captivates visitors with its UNESCO-listed Old Town, where Mozart was born among pastel baroque buildings. Beyond the famous sites, locals gather at traditional Gasthauser for schnapps tastings and explore hidden courtyards filled with artisan shops. The Salzach River divides the historic center from modern districts where authentic Austrian culture thrives.

Best time to visit. Visit May through September for outdoor concerts and hiking, or December for magical Christmas markets. Spring and early fall offer fewer crowds while maintaining pleasant weather.

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Month
January37°F - 25°F
32°F - 18°F
Cloudy7:52 am4:48 pm8 days
2.2 in
12 days
8.9 in
7 mph
February41°F - 27°F
37°F - 21°F
Partly Cloudy7:24 am5:32 pm7 days
1.9 in
9 days
7.2 in
7 mph
March50°F - 34°F
48°F - 29°F
Partly Cloudy6:38 am6:19 pm10 days
2.7 in
5 days
3.4 in
7 mph
April59°F - 41°F
57°F - 38°F
Partly Cloudy5:44 am7:10 pm12 days
3.1 in
1 days
0.5 in
7 mph
May68°F - 50°F
68°F - 48°F
Partly Cloudy5:05 am7:57 pm14 days
4.2 in
0 days
0.0 in
4 mph
June73°F - 55°F
74°F - 54°F
Partly Cloudy4:45 am8:25 pm15 days
5.2 in
0 days
0.0 in
4 mph
July77°F - 59°F
78°F - 58°F
Sunny4:55 am8:17 pm14 days
4.9 in
0 days
0.0 in
4 mph
August75°F - 57°F
76°F - 56°F
Sunny5:30 am7:42 pm13 days
4.7 in
0 days
0.0 in
4 mph
September68°F - 50°F
68°F - 48°F
Partly Cloudy6:12 am6:52 pm11 days
3.4 in
0 days
0.0 in
4 mph
October57°F - 41°F
55°F - 37°F
Partly Cloudy6:58 am5:56 pm9 days
2.6 in
0 days
0.0 in
7 mph
November45°F - 32°F
41°F - 27°F
Cloudy7:49 am4:32 pm8 days
2.3 in
3 days
1.9 in
7 mph
December39°F - 27°F
34°F - 20°F
Cloudy8:10 am4:22 pm8 days
2.1 in
10 days
7.6 in
7 mph

NameDateDescription

Travel rating

Closure rating

Recommendation
New Year's DayJanuary 1Celebrates the beginning of the new year with fireworks and festive gatherings.
Avoid travel, most places closed.
EpiphanyJanuary 6Christian holiday celebrating the visit of the Magi to baby Jesus. Marks end of Christmas.
Limited services, but some attractions open.
Easter SundayVaries (March/April)Christian holiday celebrating Jesus' resurrection. Marked by church services and family meals.
Many closures, but festive atmosphere.
Easter MondayDay after Easter SundayPublic holiday following Easter. Families often gather for meals and outdoor activities.
Some closures, but parks and nature open.
Labor DayMay 1Celebrates workers' rights and achievements. Often marked by parades and demonstrations.
Some closures, but lively atmosphere.
Ascension Day40 days after EasterChristian holiday commemorating Jesus' ascension into heaven. Often a day of rest.
Some closures, but generally quiet day.
Whit Monday50 days after EasterChristian holiday celebrating the descent of the Holy Spirit. Often a day for outdoor activities.
Some closures, but nature attractions open.
Corpus Christi60 days after EasterCatholic feast celebrating the Eucharist. Marked by processions in some areas.
Some closures, interesting processions.
Assumption of MaryAugust 15Catholic holiday honoring Mary's ascension. Often marked by church services and processions.
Some closures, but summer activities available.
National DayOctober 26Celebrates Austrian neutrality declaration. Marked by political speeches and events.
Some closures, but patriotic atmosphere.
All Saints' DayNovember 1Honors all Christian saints. Families often visit graves and attend church services.
Some closures, solemn atmosphere.
Immaculate ConceptionDecember 8Catholic holiday celebrating Mary's conception. Marked by church services and some closures.
Some closures, but pre-Christmas activities.
Christmas EveDecember 24Evening before Christmas. Families gather for traditional meals and gift-giving.
Early closures, festive evening atmosphere.
Christmas DayDecember 25Celebrates birth of Jesus. Marked by church services, family gatherings, and festive meals.
Avoid travel, most places closed.
St. Stephen's DayDecember 26Public holiday honoring St. Stephen. Often a day for family visits and outdoor activities.
Some closures, but winter activities available.

NameDateDescription

Travel rating

Closure rating

Recommendation
Salzburg Easter FestivalMarch - AprilPrestigious classical music festival featuring opera, concerts, and recitals during Easter season
Excellent time to visit for classical music lovers
Whitsun FestivalMay - JuneClassical music festival during Pentecost weekend featuring opera and orchestral performances
Great cultural experience but book accommodations early
Salzburg FestivalJuly - AugustWorld's most prestigious classical music and drama festival attracting international visitors
Expect crowds and higher prices but incredible performances
RupertikirtagSeptemberTraditional folk festival celebrating Saint Rupert with local food, crafts, and music
Authentic local experience with minimal travel disruption
Salzburg Culture DaysOctoberContemporary arts festival featuring modern theater, dance, and experimental performances
Perfect time for culture enthusiasts seeking modern art
Salzburg Advent ConcertsDecemberSeries of Christmas concerts in historic venues celebrating Mozart and classical traditions
Magical Christmas atmosphere with excellent concerts

1
Greet locals with 'Grüß Gott' in Western Austria or 'Servus' in Eastern Austria. These traditional greetings are more appreciated than a simple 'Hallo' or English 'Hello'.
2
Punctuality is highly valued in Austria. Arrive on time for appointments, tours, and dinner reservations. Being late is considered disrespectful and can be seen as poor manners.
3
Tipping is expected in restaurants, usually 10% of the bill. Round up the total or tell the server the amount you want to pay including the tip when settling the bill.
4
Always make eye contact when saying 'Prost' (cheers) before drinking. It's considered rude not to do so, and some Austrians believe it brings bad luck.
5
Many shops and businesses are closed on Sundays and public holidays. Plan your shopping and errands accordingly, especially if you're staying in smaller towns.
6
When entering a shop or restaurant, it's polite to greet the staff. Similarly, say goodbye when leaving. This small gesture is appreciated and considered good manners.
7
Austrians take their environment seriously. Always dispose of trash properly and respect nature when hiking or visiting rural areas. Littering can result in hefty fines.
8
Dress modestly when visiting churches or religious sites. Cover shoulders and knees out of respect. Some places may not allow entry if you're dressed inappropriately.
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