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How to Get from Munich to Salzburg: A Travel Guide

munich to salzburg day trip

As someone who grew up in archipelagic country like the Philippines and traveled extensively around Southeast Asia, Europe, especially the Schengen region, is fascinating to me. Now living in Munich, I find it fascinating that you can be in new country for lunch and come back home for dinner. That being said, this is your essential reading to make your Munich to Salzburg trip a pleasant experience.

All aboard for an unforgettable journey through the picturesque Bavarian countryside! Buckle up, sit back, and enjoy the scenic route as we chug along from the bustling city of Munich to the charming town of Salzburg. It’s time to trade in the hustle and bustle of city life for breathtaking mountain views and charming alpine villages. So grab a steaming cup of coffee, or you wanna be Bavarian about, a bottle of locally brewed beer (Munich is known for its beers) and let’s hit the rails!

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How far is Salzburg from Munich

The distance between Salzburg and Munich is not just a number on a map, it’s a journey filled with stunning views and delightful surprises. Sure, the straight-line distance is approximately 150 kilometers, but with all the twists and turns along the way, it feels like a trip through time and space. So, whether you’re measuring by miles or memories, the real answer is, Salzburg and Munich are just close enough for a perfect getaway, but far enough for an adventure of a lifetime.

How long does it take to go to Salzburg from Munich

The duration of the train journey from Munich to Salzburg is approximately 2 hours, 1hour and 40 minutes to be exact. The actual time may vary depending on the type of train and any stops along the way, and the tardiness of German trains! Huh, you didn’t expect that! 😛 It happens a lot these days, and the Germans are not amused by the inefficiency of their own trains. German trains ruin German reputation. Bwahahaha!  

But on average, it takes around 2 hours to travel between these two cities by train. So, pack a good book, sit back, and enjoy the scenic ride as you make your way to the charming city of Salzburg.

The Salzach, Salzburg
The Salzach River, Salzburg

How much does train cost from Munich to Salzburg?

The cost of a train ticket from Munich to Salzburg varies depending on the type of train, the time of travel, and the date of booking. On average, a one-way ticket for a standard train can cost anywhere from 15 to 30 euros, while a high-speed train ticket may cost a bit more. It’s recommended to book in advance to get the best prices and ensure availability. Purchasing a return ticket or a rail pass can save you money. 

How to get from Munich to Salzburg?

By Train (Highly Recommended)

The quickest and most convenient way to travel from Munich to Salzburg is by train. Trains frequently run from Munich’s main railway station (Hauptbahnhof) to Salzburg’s central station. There is a train from Munich to Salzburg every thirty minutes. The journey takes approximately 2 hours. Eurotrail takes about 1 hours and 30 minutes, and the regional train takes about 1 hour and forty minutes. The ride is very smooth and comfortable, despite the occasional delays. It hasn’t happened to me yet. 

By Flix Bus (Highly Recommended)

Another option is to travel by bus, which takes around 2 hours and runs several times a day. I’ve done this several times around Europe, and Flix-busing is always a pleasant experience. The seat has a usb port, type c plug, otherwise called, Europlug. 

By Private Car or Taxi

 You can also hire a private car or take a taxi from Munich to Salzburg, but this is the most expensive option, and the journey takes approximately 2 hours, depending on traffic conditions.

In case you come to Salzburg from Munich by private vehicle. You will need a vignette. A vignette is a sticker or toll tag required for using certain highways or roads in some countries. Take note: If you intend to continue driving on Austria’s Autobahn, you’ll need a Vignette, which can be purchased at any petrol station near the border.

Is the train ride from Munich to Salzburg scenic?

That’s like asking if a trip to an ice cream parlor is delicious. Of course it is! The journey takes you through rolling hills, quaint villages, and the stunning Bavarian countryside. It’s like a postcard come to life, with breathtaking views at every turn. So sit back, relax, and let the scenery sweep you away. It’s a feast for the eyes and a treat for the soul

Salzburg in winter
Salzburg in winter

Is Salzburg worth a day trip from Munich?

The charming city of Salzburg is a treasure trove of history, culture, and natural beauty. From its stunning baroque architecture to its quaint alpine villages, there’s something for everyone in Salzburg. So pack your sense of adventure and hop on a train, because a day trip to Salzburg is definitely worth your time. Trust us, you’ll be enchanted.

Do you need a passport to go from Munich to Salzburg?

Be prepared and bring your passport and residency permit card (if you’re not from any EU region like me) with you, just in case. Although Salzburg is located in Austria, a day trip from Munich requires crossing an international border. Thanks to the convenient Schengen Area, the border crossing process is relatively easy. However, it’s important to always have proper identification on hand, just in case you’re asked to present it.

How many days do you need for your Salzburg trip?

Salzburg may be small, but it packs a mighty punch! You can definitely see the city’s top sights in one day, but to truly do it justice, two days is the way to go. Spend one day exploring the charming old town and its historic sites, then take a day trip to the surrounding countryside for a change of pace. Or, double down on city sightseeing and dedicate two whole days to getting to know Salzburg’s every nook and cranny. Either way, you’ll fall in love with this enchanting city.”

Jona of Backpacking with a Book

Hi there, I’m Jona, originally from Cebu, Philippines, had live in Hanoi, Vietnam, and now currently based in Munich, Germany. This blog used to house thoughts on life and books, but eventually it morphed into a travel blog. For collaborations, projects, and other things, please email me at backpackingwithabook@gmail.com. For essays, creative nonfiction, and others, find me elsewhere.

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