There’s something magical about traveling in Europe during the summer—long daylight hours, bustling streets, and a sense of adventure in the air.
Last summer, my best friend and I embarked on a budget-friendly trip from Prague to Salzburg, staying for two nights before heading to Munich on the third day.
Here’s a recap of our incredible journey, filled with scenic views, spontaneous discoveries, and budget-friendly tips!
Day 1: Journey to Salzburg & Evening Arrival
We started our trip by taking a FlixBus from Prague to Salzburg, a comfortable and affordable way to travel between the two cities. The journey took around 5.5 hours, giving us plenty of time to relax and take in the passing landscapes of the Czech and Austrian countryside.
Upon arriving in Salzburg in the evening, we checked into a&o Salzburg Hauptbahnhof, a budget-friendly hostel conveniently located near the train station. We opted for a 6-bed mixed dormitory room, costing us around €123 each for two nights, excluding city tax.
Since it was already late, we decided to take a short walk around the area, soaking in the peaceful nighttime ambiance of Salzburg. We grabbed some snacks from a local supermarket and enjoyed a simple meal by the Salzach River, admiring the illuminated Old Town and its charming streets before heading back to rest for the next day’s adventures.
Day 2: A Day of Scenic Walks & Hidden Gems
To make the most of our time in Salzburg, we purchased a 1-day public transport ticket instead of the Salzburg Card, since we preferred to explore on foot and visit mostly free attractions.
We started the day with a visit to Hohensalzburg Fortress, one of the largest medieval castles in Europe. Instead of taking the funicular, we walked up to the fortress to save money and enjoy the panoramic views of the city. After spending some time admiring the fortress, we headed to St. Peter’s Abbey & Cemetery, a peaceful and historic site that felt like stepping back in time.
For lunch, we decided to embrace the summer vibes and had a picnic by Leopoldskron Lake, a stunning location featured in The Sound of Music. The tranquil water and breathtaking mountain views made it the perfect spot to relax and escape the tourist crowds.
Later in the afternoon, we explored Hellbrunn Palace & Trick Fountains, a fun and interactive experience that was well worth the visit. To end our day, we took a short walk up Kapuzinerberg, a hill offering one of the best sunset views over Salzburg.
Day 3: Off to Munich!
On our last morning in Salzburg, we had breakfast at the hostel before heading to the train station for our next adventure: Munich! We opted for a budget-friendly train ticket, which took us to Germany’s Bavarian capital in just 1.5 hours.
Although we were sad to leave Salzburg, we were excited to explore another city, filled with its own rich history, culture, and, of course, delicious Bavarian beer!
My Take Away?
This trip proved that traveling on a budget doesn’t mean missing out on amazing experiences. Here are some key takeaways for anyone planning a similar trip:
✅ Book FlixBus or train tickets in advance for the best prices.
✅ Stay in hostels or budget accommodations near transport hubs.
✅ Buy groceries or street food instead of dining in fancy restaurants.
✅ Explore on foot to save on transport costs.
✅ Visit free attractions like gardens, scenic lakes, and historic streets.
Salzburg was a dream destination, and the journey from Prague to Salzburg and then to Munich was one for the books. If you’re looking for a scenic, culture-filled, and affordable summer getaway, this route is highly recommended!
Would you consider visiting Salzburg and Munich on a budget? Let me know in the comments! 😊