Salzburg isn’t just Austria’s musical birthplace and a UNESCO World Heritage Site; it’s also a city packed with stories, stunning landscapes, and cultural treasures. For travelers who want to see the best without wasting time or energy, Salzburg offers a variety of top-notch tours. Whether it’s a private full-day trip to Hallstatt, a guided city walk, or an excursion to the Bavarian Alps, each experience provides a different window into this charming city and its surroundings. We love the flexibility of private tours, like the Private Full-Day Tour of Hallstatt and Salzkammergut which lets you skip the crowds and customize your day. Also, the Salzburg Old Town Highlights Private Walking Tour offers a deep dive into Salzburg’s history and architecture—perfect for first-timers or those who want a focused overview.
Salzburg excels in offering both cultural explorations and adventure-based outings. From walking tours through the old town to scenic drives across the Bavarian Alps, you’ll find options suited for every interest and pace. Below, we’ve compiled a list of the 14 best tours, giving you details on what makes each one special and helping you pick the right experience for your trip.
1. Private Full-Day Tour of Hallstatt and Salzkammergut from Salzburg with Options
At number 1, this private full-day trip takes you to the picture-perfect village of Hallstatt, with plenty of flexibility. The private guide means you can tailor the day, adding activities like a boat ride on the lake or exploring nearby towns such as St. Wolfgang and Fuschl am See. The tour includes scenic stops, panoramic views, and relaxed sightseeing without the rush of a group. Pass through charming towns and enjoy learning about local life in the Salzkammergut region, with plenty of photography opportunities. Guests consistently praise the guide’s knowledge and the personal touch that makes this trip stand out. With a duration of 7-9 hours and a cost of around $344, it’s an excellent choice for travelers wanting a comprehensive, customized experience. The flexibility and private service make it ideal for couples or small groups seeking a stress-free day.
Bottom Line: A personalized, scenic adventure perfect for those eager to explore Hallstatt and beyond at their own pace.
2. Salzburg Old Town Highlights Private Walking Tour
At number 2, the Salzburg Old Town Highlights Private Walking Tour offers an in-depth look at Salzburg’s historic core. This 2-6 hour tour is tailored for your group, making it easy to skip the crowds while focusing on the city’s most iconic sights. You’ll stroll past Mozart’s Birthplace, the Mirabell Gardens, and Salzburg Cathedral, learning stories behind each site. The tour includes convenient hotel pickup, which means no unnecessary walking or public transport. This is perfect for first-time visitors or those with limited time but still wanting a meaningful experience. The reviews highlight the guide’s depth of knowledge and ability to customize the itinerary, making it a personal and engaging way to understand Salzburg’s charm.
Bottom Line: A flexible, private introduction to Salzburg’s history, architecture, and music heritage, ideal for a tailored city experience.
3. Private Tour: Eagle’s Nest and Bavarian Alps Tour from Salzburg
On the list at number 3, this private Eagle’s Nest and Bavarian Alps tour takes you across the border into Germany for breathtaking mountain views. The 4-hour experience departs from Salzburg with your personal guide, who will customize the day based on your interests. You’ll go up to the Eagle’s Nest in a historic elevator and enjoy panoramic vistas of the Alps, plus a stop in the alpine town of Berchtesgaden. The guided drive offers insights into WWII history and regional culture, making it both scenic and educational. Perfect for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike, the tour has garnered high praise, with guests mentioning the guide’s depth of knowledge and flexibility.
Bottom Line: An excellent mix of mountain scenery, WWII history, and private comfort—ideal for those wanting a personalized Bavarian adventure.
4. Hallstatt and Salt Mines Small-Group Tour from Salzburg
Number 4 features a small-group tour to Hallstatt, with a maximum of eight travelers. This 8-hour trip offers a hassle-free way to experience the UNESCO-listed village and its salt mines, one of the oldest in the world. You’ll enjoy scenic drives through the Salzkammergut, with stops at Wolfgangsee and Bad Ischl, a summer retreat of Austria’s former emperor. The highlight is touring the salt mine and riding the Salzberg funicular to panoramic views. Reviewers love the intimate size, and Shiva, the guide, is praised for his local knowledge and helpfulness. The price is competitive at about $162, offering good value for a full-day experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers seeking a small-group, immersive day exploring Hallstatt and its salt mining history.
5. Amphibious Splash Tour on the water & on the land in Salzburg
Number 5 is the Amphibious Splash Tour, a 1.5-hour adventure that combines city sightseeing from both land and water. This tour uses a unique amphibian vehicle and concludes with a splash into the Salzach River. It’s a fun, lively way to see Salzburg’s key landmarks like the Fortress Hohensalzburg and Mirabell Gardens, with lively commentary from your guide. Reviewers highlight its entertainment value and the novelty of the experience. It’s especially suited for families or first-time visitors wanting a memorable, entertaining overview without long walking sessions. The cost of around $50 makes it an affordable option to add to your Salzburg itinerary.
Bottom Line: A playful, family-friendly tour that offers a different perspective of Salzburg’s top sights.
6. Private Eagle’s Nest and Berchtesgaden Tour
Number 6 offers a personalized Eagle’s Nest and Berchtesgaden experience. In a private vehicle, your guide will craft a flexible itinerary including WWII sites, scenic drives, and time in the Bavarian mountain town. The highlight is the Eagle’s Nest—reachable by a historic bus ride and elevator—offering spectacular views. This tour is perfect for travelers who want a curated, intimate experience with the ability to customize stops and focus on interests like WWII history or alpine scenery. Reviews mention the guide’s friendliness and knowledge, making this a reliable choice for a private day out.
Bottom Line: A tailored, private day in the Bavarian Alps suited for history buffs and those wanting a personal touch.
7. Salzburg Highlight Tour with Fortress Hohensalzburg
Number 7 features a Salzburg Highlight Tour with Fortress Hohensalzburg. Lasting around 2.5 to 3 hours, this private guided walk takes you through Mozart’s birthplace, the Residenzplatz, and the spectacular fortress. The tour is ideal for first-time visitors who want a quick but rundown of the city’s highlights, with the fortress offering spectacular views over Salzburg. Guests praise the guide’s storytelling and the ability to fit many sights into a short time. For $498 per group, it’s a good investment for families or small groups wanting a condensed, high-quality Salzburg experience.
Bottom Line: A concise yet rich tour that provides a great overview with stunning fortress views.
8. Private Eagle’s Nest and King’s Lake Tour from Salzburg
Number 8’s Eagle’s Nest and King’s Lake combines WWII history with alpine scenery in a 6-hour private trip. You’ll visit Hitler’s mountain retreat, enjoy views over Königsee, and walk to Malerwinkel for photos. The tour includes round-trip transportation from Salzburg and is ideal for those who want a personalized, flexible itinerary with scenic stops. Reviewers appreciate the guide’s friendliness and ability to adapt the day’s focus. It’s well suited for history enthusiasts and nature lovers looking for a private, well-rounded day.
Bottom Line: A private, scenic, and historically focused tour perfect for those interested in WWII sites and mountain landscapes.
9. Private Tour: Austrian Lakes and Mountains Tour from Salzburg
Number 9 offers a customizable Austrian Lakes and Mountains Tour. In 4 hours, you’ll explore Lake Mondsee, Wolfgangsee, and visit the church in St. Wolfgang with its Gothic altar. You can even take a boat ride on Wolfgangsee or enjoy coffee at the White Horse Inn. This private trip is suited for travelers who want a personalized, scenic experience focused on Austria’s famous lakes and mountain vistas. Guests love the flexibility to include a boat ride or sightseeing stops, with reviews emphasizing the guide’s knowledge and kindness.
Bottom Line: An intimate, scenic tour perfect for photo enthusiasts and those who want a relaxed, flexible day in the lakeside landscapes.
10. Königssee & Berchtesgaden Private Tour from Salzburg + Ticket
Number 10 features a Königssee and Berchtesgaden private trip. Over 6 hours, you’ll explore charming Berchtesgaden, enjoy the scenic ferry ride across Königssee, and experience the stunning Bavarian scenery. The private guide customizes the stops to your interests, making this a flexible and scenic day trip. Reviewers mention how well-organized and informative the day is, with special praise for the peaceful boat ride and mountain views. It’s ideal for those wanting a comprehensive Bavarian experience with private attention.
Bottom Line: A scenic, private day to enjoy lakes, mountains, and Bavarian charm, best for travelers seeking a relaxed and tailored experience.
11. Salzburg: Segway sightseeing tour
Number 11 offers a fun, energetic Segway tour. Lasting about 2 hours, it combines exploring Salzburg’s romantic streets with views from Mönchsberg mountain. It’s perfect for those who prefer a relaxed yet active way to see the city, especially first-time visitors who want an overview without walking. Reviewers love how easy and entertaining it is, praising the guide’s humor and the exhilarating experience of gliding through Salzburg’s streets and viewpoints. This is a great choice if you want a memorable, light-hearted introduction to Salzburg.
Bottom Line: An engaging, dynamic way to see Salzburg’s top sights with minimal effort and lots of fun.
12. From Vienna: Fairytale Village, Hallstatt, and Salzburg Tour
Number 12 is a full-day Vienna to Salzburg and Hallstatt trip, perfect for those with limited time but big ambitions. It combines a scenic drive from Vienna with guided stops in Hallstatt and Salzburg. The tour hits key highlights like the Dachstein Mountains, Mozart’s birthplace, and the village’s fairy-tale scenery. Reviews praise the comprehensive itinerary and knowledgeable guide, especially for travelers wanting a taste of Austria’s best in one day. The 13.5-hour duration makes it suitable for early risers willing to pack in a lot.
Bottom Line: An efficient way to see Austria’s highlights from Vienna, ideal for those short on time but eager for variety.
13. Private walking tour through the old town of Salzburg
This private walking tour offers a tailored exploration of Salzburg’s historic streets in about 2 hours. Led by a licensed guide, you’ll visit the Salzach River, Mozart’s house, and the Salzburg Cathedral, with plenty of room to customize the route. Reviewers mention the guide’s depth of knowledge and the ability to ask questions freely. It’s perfect for travelers who want a quick but insightful taste of Salzburg’s longest-standing sights.
Bottom Line: A short, private tour that covers Salzburg’s main sights with personal attention and flexibility.
14. Salzburg Introduction Private Walking Tour
Finally, the Salzburg Introduction Private Walking Tour is a 2.5-hour experience designed for first-timers. You’ll explore the Getreidegasse, Mozart’s Birthplace, St. Peter’s Abbey, and the Residenzplatz, with a focus on personalized narration and a relaxed pace. Reviewers praise the guide for their storytelling and flexibility to adapt to the group’s interests. It’s an excellent choice for travelers wanting a balanced, engaging overview of Salzburg’s highlights in a short time.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded, personalized introduction perfect for those new to Salzburg who want a cozy, focused experience.
How to Choose the Right Tour for You
When selecting a Salzburg tour, consider your budget, time available, and interests. For instance, if you want a full day of personalized exploration, the Private Full-Day Tour of Hallstatt is hard to beat. For a shorter, city-focused experience, the Salzburg Old Town Highlights Private Walking Tour offers a deep dive into Salzburg’s history and architecture. For scenic mountain views coupled with WWII history, the Eagle’s Nest and Bavarian Alps Tour combines both in a private setting.
If you’re traveling with family or kids, the Amphibious Splash Tour provides fun and entertainment. Budget-conscious travelers might prefer the Salt Mines Small-Group Tour, which balances cost and experience. Remember to book early, especially for private options or tours with limited spaces, to secure your spot in Salzburg’s captivating landscape.
Final Thoughts
Salzburg offers a wide variety of tours to suit all tastes—from cultural discoveries and historic sites to scenic drives and adventure tours. For a comprehensive experience, the Private Full-Day Tour of Hallstatt shines as a personalized, scenic adventure. For a quick city overview with memorable views, the Salzburg Fortress and Old Town Tour is perfect.
Travelers seeking both education and beauty will find options like the Eagle’s Nest and Bavarian Alps or the Austrian Lakes and Mountains tours invaluable. No matter your style, booking early and choosing the right tour will help you make the most of your Salzburg visit.