Cycling in Salzburg – From City Sights to the Gaisberg Summit
Salzburg is one of those places that seems to tick every box for cyclists. It is compact enough to get around easily, yet packed with enough variety to keep you busy for days. You can enjoy a gentle ride through the historic centre, take in the famous landmarks and then, if you fancy more of a challenge, tackle the climb up the Gaisberg for views across the city and beyond.
City Cycling and the Instagram Tour
If you are new to Salzburg, the city’s cycle paths make it easy to see the main sights without worrying about traffic. The cycling infrastructure is well marked, and there are plenty of bike stands if you want to stop and explore on foot.
Many visitors like to follow what has become known as an “Instagrammable” tour of the city. This is not an official route but rather a series of stops that locals and visitors agree make the best photo spots. You might start at Mirabell Gardens with its colourful flowerbeds and views to the fortress. From there, cross the Makartsteg Bridge, where the padlocks and river backdrop make for a great picture. Cycle along the river to the Old Town and take in the Domplatz, Residenzplatz and Getreidegasse, each with its own character.
The beauty of cycling here is that you can see a lot in a short time. You can pause for a coffee in one of the side streets, wander into a museum or simply enjoy the atmosphere. The flat paths along the Salzach make this part of the ride easy and suitable for all fitness levels.
Heading for the Hills – The Gaisberg Climb
Once you have explored the city, you might be tempted to turn your attention to the surrounding mountains. The most famous local climb is the Gaisberg. It rises above the city to over 1,200 metres and is a popular route for both road cyclists and e-bikers.
From the centre, you follow the signs out towards Gnigl, where the climb begins. It is a steady ascent with a series of bends that give you glimpses back over Salzburg. The road surface is good, with usually light traffic, but it is still a test of your legs and lungs. E-bikes make the climb more accessible for those who prefer to enjoy the views without pushing themselves to the limit.
The higher you go, the wider the panorama becomes. On a clear day, you can see across to the Berchtesgaden Alps, over the lakes of the Salzkammergut and to the north into Germany to Chiemsee. At the summit, there is a café and viewing area where you can take a break before the descent.
A ride for everyone
What makes cycling in Salzburg so appealing is the mix of easy city sightseeing and more challenging routes nearby. You can spend a relaxed morning visiting the postcard-perfect locations, then head into the hills in the afternoon for something more demanding. Whether you stay on the flat or take on the Gaisberg, the combination of culture, scenery, and good cycling paths means you will end the day with a memory card full of photos and a real feel for the city.
