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.