Driving in Salzburg
Traffic in Salzburg and surrounding areas combines exemplary order on highways with inevitable congestion in the city. Local drivers maintain calm and disciplined behavior.
Speed limits:
- Urban areas: 50 km/h
- Outside urban areas: 100 km/h
- Motorways: 130 km/h
Daytime running lights or low beams must remain on at all times.
Mountain roads and serpentines form an integral part of the landscape around Salzburg. When traveling to the Mondsee, Wolfgangsee, or Attersee lake regions, or crossing mountain passes, select a vehicle with a powerful engine (minimum 1.4 liters) for comfortable climbing. On descents, use low gear for engine braking to prevent brake system overheating. Prepare for narrow sections where right-of-way is determined by traffic signs.
On certain mountain sections, you may encounter signs requiring mandatory use of snow chains—in such cases, install them on at least the two driving wheels.
Fuel Stations in Salzburg
Salzburg and the surrounding federal state maintain an extensive network of fuel stations with straightforward refueling processes. Most stations operate on a familiar system for tourists: drive to the pump, refuel with the required amount, and proceed to the indoor cashier for payment. Many modern stations, particularly those operating 24/7, accept payment directly at the pump via bank card.
Parking in Salzburg
Salzburg operates a parking zone system that regulates vehicle flow throughout the city. The basic principle is simple: proximity to the historic center means stricter restrictions. All street parking in regulated zones has a time limit of maximum 3 hours during specified periods.
Three types of street parking exist:
- Paid parking on weekdays from 9:00 am to 7:00 pm: During these hours, obtain a ticket from the parking meter and display it under your windshield.
- Free parking with a 3-hour limit: Requires parking discs where you set your arrival time.
- Free parking without time restrictions: Found in outlying areas of the city.
In central Salzburg, visual parking indicators are often absent—no familiar blue markings or prominent signs. Paid zones may begin without obvious indicators on pavement or curbs. The primary indicator is gray parking meters installed on sidewalks with parking signs. If you see these machines along the street, you're in a paid parking zone. This operates on a self-service principle: park, approach the meter, pay for time, and place the paper ticket under your windshield.
Pay special attention to signs marked "Zone 1" or "Zone 2"—these are residential zones where parking is permitted only for local residents with permits.
For extended walking tours in central Salzburg, P+R parking facilities on the city outskirts provide an ideal solution. Leave your vehicle and receive a ticket that includes public transportation to the center. Underground parking garages in the city center offer another reliable option without time restrictions, though at higher cost.
The historic center of Salzburg is a pedestrian zone secured by retractable bollards. If you've booked a hotel in this zone, obtain an access code from the hotel in advance.
Booking a Car in Salzburg: Step-by-Step Instructions
Begin by selecting your rental dates on the Localrent website. If needed, specify your preferred pickup location—airport, office, or delivery to a specific city address.
Next:
- Apply filters for transmission type, vehicle class, brand, payment methods, and other parameters
- Review the selected vehicle card—specifications, insurance conditions, and payment options
- Add necessary options such as child seats, additional insurance, or additional driver service
- Enter personal information and driver contact details, then pay the deposit online
After booking confirmation, you'll receive a voucher via email. When meeting with the rental agent, carefully inspect the vehicle and document all damages in the inspection report. Collect the vehicle, rental agreement, insurance policy, and vehicle inspection report.