Trains from Zurich to Salzburg

Taking a train from Zurich to Salzburg is one of the most scenic journeys in Europe, taking you through some of the most picturesque landscapes in the world. The total distance of the journey is 297km (184 miles) and it takes approximately 4.5 hours, making it the quickest option for traveling between these two cities. To begin the journey, hop on the direct InterCity train from Zurich Hauptbahnhof to Salzburg Hbf. Along the way, you'll pass through some iconic cities and towns such as Thun, Innsbruck, and Munich. Enjoy the stunning alpine scenery as you travel past majestic mountains, crystal clear lakes, and vibrant valleys. You can make several stops during your journey, including at Schaffhausen, where you can visit the famous Rheinfall waterfall, one of Europe's largest waterfalls. If you're looking for some cultural attractions, stop at the towns of Chur and Feldkirch, home to some of the Alpine region's most iconic churches and museums. Once you arrive in Salzburg, make sure to visit the famous Mozart's Residence and Fortress Hohensalzburg. The city is also known for its vibrant nightlife, so be sure to explore the lively bars and restaurants around the main square. Traveling from Zurich to Salzburg by train is an unforgettable experience that will take you on a journey through some of Europe's most spectacular landscapes. Enjoy the convenience of the direct route and take time to explore the iconic cities and towns that you pass by during the trip.

Zurich, the beautiful capital city of Switzerland, is a paradise for anyone looking to explore a stunning mix of historical and architectural sites. From its sparkling lakes and its scenic hills to its cobbled streets and old bridges, Zurich offers a wide range of attractions for tourists of all tastes and budgets. Here are seven of the most popular must-visit sites in Zurich. 

The Old Town (Altstadt): Dating back to the 12th century, this medieval old city offers a wealth of colorful old houses, winding lanes, bustling squares, and picturesque gothic churches. Take an afternoon to explore this area and marvel in its beauty. Its narrow streets are full of shops, galleries, and restaurants, providing the perfect place for a leisurely afternoon stroll.

Grossmünster: Located in the heart of Zurich, Grossmünster is an iconic Romanesque-style church dating back to the 11th century. With its impressive twin towers, it is considered the symbol of the city. Entrance is free, and it is open to visitors from Monday to Saturday, 9am to 6pm.

Uetliberg: With its striking summit of 871m, Uetliberg offers one of the most breathtaking views of Zurich. The mountain can be accessed by train or cable car, and it is a popular spot for picnicking and enjoying the views of the city. There are several trails of different difficulty levels, making Uetliberg the perfect place for an outdoor adventure.

Fraumünster: Located next to the Grossmünster, Fraumünster is a beautiful gothic church dating from the 14th century. Visitors can admire its intricate stained glass windows, designed by renowned painter, Augusto Giacometti. Its entrance is free, and it is open daily from 9am to 6pm.

Zurich Zoo: The Zurich Zoo is one of the most popular attractions in the city. It is home to over 400 species of animals, from exotic birds to playful monkeys. It is open daily from 9am to 6pm, and admission fees start at CHF13 for adults and CHF7 for children.

Lindenhof: Located within the Old Town, the Lindenhof offers some of the best views of the city and its stunning lake. It is a great spot for admiring the sunset, and it is also a popular place for jogging and relaxing. Entrance is free, and it is open daily from 8am to 8pm.

Rathaus (Town Hall): Built in 1694, the Rathaus is an impressive baroque building located in the main square of the city. It is a great place to learn about the city’s history and architecture. Entrance is free, and it is open Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm.

When visiting Zurich, don’t forget to try some of its delicious local specialties such as Rosti, fondue, or apple-pie. With its beautiful scenery and rich cultural and historical attractions, Zurich is the perfect destination for an unforgettable vacation.

Salzburg is an enchanting city, steeped in culture, beauty, and history. Located in the heart of Austria, the city dates back to the 8th century and offers visitors an incredible experience, whether it’s taking in the world-famous sights, exploring the winding streets, or indulging in traditional Austrian cuisine. Here is a list of must-visit places and things to eat on your next visit to Salzburg! 

Mirabell Palace and Gardens: This stunning baroque palace, built in 1606 by Prince-Archbishop Wolf Dietrich, is a marvel of architecture and beauty. It features expansive gardens, sculptures, and fountains, as well as the Marble Hall, which is used as a backdrop in the movie The Sound of Music. The palace is open from 09:00 – 17:30 and entrance is €8.50. Insider tip: Make sure you take a stroll through the meticulously groomed gardens!

Hohensalzburg Fortress: Built in 1077 and perched high upon Festungsberg Hill, this awe-inspiring fortress offers magnificent views of the city below. Explore the grounds to get a glimpse of the Prince-Archbishop’s chambers, the torture chamber, and the Golden Hall. The fortress is open from 09:00 – 19:00 and entrance is €13.

Mozart’s Birthplace: Visit the house where the world-famous composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was born in 1756. The house is full of music-themed artifacts and interactive exhibits that take visitors on a journey through Mozart’s life and work. The Birthplace is open from 9:00 – 18:00 and the entrance fee is €11.

Old Town: Explore the narrow, cobblestone streets of Salzburg’s atmospheric Old Town to discover quaint shops, quaint cafes, and mesmerizing churches. The Old Town has a rich history, with some parts of it dating back to the Roman era.

Cuisine: No trip to Salzburg is complete without indulging in the city’s delicious cuisine. Must-try dishes include Wiener Schnitzel, Kaiserschmarrn, and Rostbratwurst. Make sure to pair your meal with a glass of traditional Austrian beer or wine!

Salzach river Cruise: On the Salzach river Cruise, visitors can get a unique perspective of the city from the comfort of the boat and are also treated to amazing views of the fortress and nearby mountains. It’s a must-do activity!

Lippizaner Horse Show: Watch the amazing Lippizaner horses perform their unique dances and jumps in the stunning Mirabell Palace courtyard. Shows take place during the summer months and entrance is €20.

No matter how you choose to spend your time in Salzburg, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience. With its impressive architecture, lush gardens, and delicious cuisine, you’ll be sure to take away some lasting memories from this enchanting city.