Salzburg and Alpine Lakes Tour From Vienna

Exploring the stunning alpine landscapes surrounding Vienna is a must for any discerning traveler. The Salzburg and Alpine Lakes Tour offers an exhilarating 12-hour journey, taking visitors on a captivating adventure through the heart of this breathtaking region. From charming lakeside towns to the iconic Sound of Music filming locations, this tour immerses travelers in the rich cultural tapestry of Austria. Whether you’re a classical music aficionado or simply seek to uncover the magic of this enchanting area, the experiences await.

Key Points

• 12-hour tour from Vienna to Salzburg and Alpine lakes, covering key attractions like Salzburg cathedral, abbey, and Mozart’s residence.
• Scenic photo breaks at St. Gilgen and Mondsee lakes, with a 1.5-hour walking tour in Salzburg led by a local guide.
• Small-group experience limited to 15 participants, with hotel pickup available from central Vienna hotels.
• Mixed reviews regarding comfort and length of the tour, with suggestions for longer stays in Salzburg and more photo opportunities.
• Tour concludes at Vienna State Opera, Albertinaplatz, with no drop-off service provided.

Tour Overview and Highlights

This 12-hour tour from Vienna whisks travelers to the enchanting city of Salzburg and the picturesque Alpine lakes of St. Gilgen and Mondsee.

It’s ideal for classical music lovers and fans of "The Sound of Music." In Salzburg, you’ll visit the cathedral, abbey, and Mozart’s residence.

Then, marvel at the stunning Alpine lakes, with photo breaks to capture the breathtaking scenery.

The small-group experience, limited to 15 people, ensures a more intimate and personalized journey.

Whether you’re seeking culture or natural beauty, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure.

Inclusions and Logistics

The tour includes hotel pickup from central Vienna hotels, provided guests notify the operator 24 hours in advance.

Transport is by air-conditioned coach or van with a professional guide.

In Salzburg, there’s a walking tour with a local guide. Guests can take photo breaks at the alpine lakes of Mondsee and St. Gilgen.

However, food, drinks, gratuities, and entrance fees aren’t included.

The tour ends at the Vienna State Opera, Albertinaplatz.

No pickups are offered from apartments or hostels, and drop-off isn’t provided – guests must return to the original meeting point.

Meeting Points and Pickup Details

Guests depart for the tour from the "Tourist Info Vienna" at Albertina Platz, A-1010 Vienna.

Be sure to arrive 10 minutes early to check in. The tour doesn’t provide pickup from apartments or hostels, so travelers need to make their own way to the meeting point.

At the end of the day, the tour drops guests off back at the Vienna State Opera, Albertinaplatz, rather than returning to the original departure location.

Keep in mind there’s no drop-off service included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation from the tour’s endpoint.

Tour Itinerary and Experience

The tour begins with a scenic 3-hour drive from Vienna, covering approximately 370 miles (600 km) through the Austrian countryside.

Along the way, the group makes stops to capture photos of the breathtaking Alpine lakes in St. Gilgen and Mondsee.

Upon arrival in Salzburg, guests enjoy a 1.5-hour walking tour with a local guide, exploring the city’s historic cathedral, abbey, and Mozart’s residence.

Afterward, they’ve 1.5 hours of free time to discover Salzburg’s charming streets and cafes at their own pace.

For ‘The Sound of Music’ fans, an optional visit to filming locations is available.

Exploring Salzburg

As the group sets foot in Salzburg, they are immediately captivated by the city’s timeless charm. The meandering cobbled streets, ornate architecture, and lively plazas create a sense of Old-World elegance. A walking tour with a local guide brings the city’s history to life, from the grand Salzburg Cathedral to the charming Mozart Residence.

Highlights of Salzburg
Salzburg Cathedral	St. Peter’s Abbey	Mozart’s Birthplace
An imposing 17th-century Baroque structure, renowned for its striking marble façade and towering spires.	This Benedictine monastery dates back to the 7th century and features stunning Romanesque and Gothic elements.	Mozart’s birthplace in 1756, now a museum that offers a glimpse into the composer’s life and work.

The tour provides ample time for exploring Salzburg at one’s own pace, allowing visitors to soak in the city’s captivating ambiance.

Alpine Lakes: St. Gilgen and Mondsee

• Breathtaking views of the St. Gilgen and Mondsee lakes

• Photo opportunities with the stunning Alpine scenery

• Chance to explore charming lakeside towns and villages

• Optional visits to "The Sound of Music" filming locations

‘The Sound of Music’ Filming Locations

For fans of ‘The Sound of Music’, the tour also includes stops at several filming locations from the beloved musical.

You’ll get to walk in the footsteps of Maria and the von Trapp family as you visit the Mondsee Cathedral, where the iconic wedding scene was filmed.

Another highlight is the ‘do-re-mi’ steps in Salzburg’s Mirabell Gardens, where the children sang and danced.

While the time in Salzburg is limited, these visits provide an immersive experience for fans, allowing them to connect with the classic film in a meaningful way.

Traveler Feedback and Recommendations

Travelers have provided mixed reviews regarding the comfort and overall length of the Salzburg and Alpine Lakes Tour.

While the scenic views were widely appreciated, some expressed a desire for longer stays in Salzburg and more photo opportunities at the alpine lakes.

Suggestions include:

• Tour van could feel cramped, particularly for longer journeys
• Dual-language tours may slow the pace for some participants
• More optional walking tours could provide additional free time
• Some travelers felt the length of the tour was too long, despite the beautiful landscapes

Things To Know

Can We Visit Other Cities in Addition to Salzburg?

The tour focuses primarily on Salzburg and the surrounding Alpine lakes, though it’s possible to add additional cities or stops with advance notice. However, this may impact the overall duration and itinerary of the tour.

Is Wi-Fi Available on the Coach or Van?

Unfortunately, Wi-Fi is not provided on the coach or van for this tour. The focus is on immersing you in the scenic Alpine landscapes and cultural sights of Salzburg, rather than staying connected online during the journey.

Can We Modify the Itinerary to Spend More Time in Salzburg?

The tour’s itinerary can be modified to allow for more time in Salzburg, if requested. While the standard tour includes 1.5 hours of free time there, the guide may be able to extend this or add an optional walking tour, for those interested in exploring the city further.

Are There Any Discounts for Seniors or Students?

The tour operator does offer discounts for seniors aged 65+ and students with valid ID, typically 10-15% off the regular price. However, these reduced rates may have limited availability, so it’s best to inquire when booking.

Can We Arrange for a Private Transfer Back to Our Hotel?

You can certainly arrange a private transfer back to your hotel after the tour. Just let the tour provider know in advance, and they’ll be happy to assist with this request for an additional fee.

Sum Up

The Salzburg and Alpine Lakes Tour from Vienna offers a captivating journey through a region steeped in classical music and the beloved film "The Sound of Music." Travelers will delight in the scenic drive, guided tour of Salzburg’s highlights, and free time to explore this enchanting city. With photo stops at picturesque lakes, this tour provides an unforgettable experience for lovers of history, culture, and natural beauty.