Car rental in Salzburg

Salzburg by car

Salzburg squeezes baroque churches and a hilltop fortress onto a narrow strip between two crags and the Salzach. Its lake district and the Bavarian mountains sit so close that crossing the border barely registers as an event.

Driving in Salzburg

Salzburg is reached by A 1, A 10 and B 150. Parking in the centre is paid and marked by zone. Streets in the old centre are narrow, a smaller car is easier.

Renting and driving in Austria

Speed limits 50 / 100 / 130 km/h. Alcohol limit 0.5 ‰. Motorways need a prepaid pass, and a few tunnel and mountain-pass sections are charged separately at a toll station — the pass is not needed on those.

Within a day’s drive of Salzburg

  • Hallein — 14 km
  • Berchtesgaden — 20 km
  • Linz — 107 km
  • Munich — 116 km

What kind of car do you need?

Typical capacity for the category — the exact model is confirmed by the rental company at booking.

  • Economy

    4–5 seats · 1 large bag + 1 small

    City streets and tight parking

  • Standard

    5 seats · 2 large bags + 1 small

    Long drives with full luggage

  • SUV

    5 seats · 3 large bags

    Mountain roads and winter trips

  • Estate

    5 seats · 3 large bags

    Families with a lot of luggage

  • People carrier

    7 seats · 4 large bags

    Groups of six or more

  • Luxury

    5 seats · 2 large bags + 1 small

    Business trips and long motorways

  • Convertible

    4 seats · 2 small bags

    Coastal roads in warm weather

Airports serving this city

Other cities in Austria

Frequently asked questions

Where can I pick up a car in Salzburg?

In the city and at the airport — Salzburg Airport. Which desk, and whether it sits inside the terminal or a shuttle ride away, is shown by the rental company before you book.

Austria: which side of the road do they drive on?

On the right. Speed limits are posted at the roadside and differ between towns, open roads and motorways.

Which currency will I be charged in?

Prices are usually set in EUR. The rental company sets both the price and the deposit, and shows them before you book.

Can I drive the car into another country?

Often yes within the EU, but never assume it. Crossing a border has to be allowed by the rental company and usually costs extra, so check the terms before you book.

Where do I park in the centre of Salzburg?

Parking in the centre is paid and marked by zone.

What are the speed limits in Austria?

50 km/h in towns, 100 km/h on open roads, 130 km/h on motorways.

Are the motorways tolled?

Motorways need a prepaid pass, and a few tunnel and mountain-pass sections are charged separately at a toll station — the pass is not needed on those. Payment is by cash or card.