Your driver will meet you at your address in Salzburg.
You’ll travel in comfort for 4 h 50 min.
Your driver will drop you off at your address in Zurich.
As you leave Salzburg heading west, you will very quickly cross the border into Germany. You’ll follow the northern edge of the Alps along southern Germany for the entirety of your trip from Salzburg to Zurich. This region is known for its large lakes, medieval downtowns made of half-timbered houses, and impressive forests.
The drive takes 4 hours and 50 minutes without any stops, but given the unique landscape and charming villages along the way, you won’t be able to resist stretching your legs in Landsberg am Lech or having lunch in St. Gallen.
On this journey, you'll traverse 280 miles (453 km) through the heart of Central Europe and the majestic Alps before finally arriving in the city of Zurich. Daytrip makes it simple to travel in a foreign country by car on your schedule, so what are you waiting for? Let’s see Zurich!
Zurich is Switzerland’s largest city and is a world-renowned financial hub nestled in the Alps. Many people mistake it for the capital, but this title is reserved for Bern. Switzerland does not recognize a single city as the capital, but Bern is the legislative capital, while Zurich is the economic center of the country.
Initially founded by the Romans as a customs post and fort named Turicum, Zurich’s location on the northern shores of Lake Zurich and along major European trade routes has helped it grow from a prosperous medieval city-state into a modern city with international reach.
Switzerland’s stance on neutrality and financial privacy puts it in a unique position as the bank of the world. Many institutions set up their finances and central offices in Zurich. Although it is located in a German-speaking canton, Zurich has many residents proficient in English, French, and Italian. The city’s international allure and attractive salaries draw a diverse workforce, so you're likely to encounter fellow expats or travelers from dozens of countries.
Zurich attracts around 4 million visitors annually, which is quite significant for a city with a population of about 400,000 and 1.5 million in the metro area. Its mild summers, proximity to ski resorts, and access to hiking trails make it a prime spot for outdoor enthusiasts. Combine this with luxury shopping and tranquil surroundings, and you have the makings of an elite travel destination that is popular throughout the year.
Here are some handy travel tips to keep in mind when planning your journey from Salzburg to Zurich!
The Alps are known for their unpredictable weather due to their high elevation and many large lakes. A warm day can quickly cool down in the evening, so dress in layers and be ready for wind, rain, or even snow throughout much of the year.
Despite being surrounded by EU countries like Austria and Germany, Switzerland is not an EU member. However, it is part of the Schengen Zone, which allows for the free movement of people across borders without routine passport checks. This means you may need to declare goods such as cigarettes and alcohol at the border. Keep your passport within easy reach and be prepared for a potential border stop.
The journey from Salzburg to Zurich spans approximately 280 miles (453 km) and can be completed in as little as 4 hours and 50 minutes. Since there are no direct flights for this trip, flying is not an option, and the distance is relatively short.
When planning your trip, consider the size of your luggage, your budget, time constraints, and any potential detours to the many attractions you’ll want to explore on your way to Zurich.
Hiring a private driver offers unparalleled flexibility. It enables you to visit historic towns and palaces that you would otherwise miss as they whiz by on the train—all without having to navigate the mountainous roads yourself!
Once your Daytrip driver picks you up from your address in Salzburg, you can take advantage of the freedom to explore. Consider stopping at one of the many charming lakeside towns, like Lindau Island, or take a ferry to Herrenchiemsee to see Ludwig II’s palace on a lake.
Convenience means everything when you’re on vacation, and with Daytrip you won’t need to worry about returning rental cars, calling taxis, or finding parking in Zurich’s city center. Your private driver will drop you off directly at your accommodation.
Driving is the ideal choice for those who value flexibility, convenience, and the chance to discover lesser-known cultural landmarks.
You have 5 direct trains per day to choose from through OBB, Austria’s national rail service. These trains can take you to Zurich in as little as 5 hours 24 minutes, and tickets range from $48 to $91 (€45-€85). When you arrive at Zurich's train station, a quick ride on the public transit network will get you to your hotel.
Traveling by bus is not the most convenient option for this route, but it is the cheapest. Flixbus has one direct bus per day that leaves at 5:05 AM from Salzburg and the trip is 7 hours and 15 minutes. All other bus options require a transfer in Munich and you will be on the road for 8 to 10 hours. Ticket prices from Flixbus start at $40 (€37), with an average of $43 (€40) per passenger.
Welcome to Zurich, Switzerland’s largest city! After your eventful journey from Salzburg, it’s time to explore and enjoy your destination. Be sure to include these must-see attractions in your Zurich itinerary:
The Old Town in Zurich is an enchanting trip back in time with its narrow cobblestone streets and beautifully preserved medieval architecture. Wander through its charming lanes to see iconic landmarks like the Grossmünster and Fraumünster churches, and discover quaint alleyways filled with unique shops, cozy cafes, and art galleries.
Visit the Swiss National Museum for a deep dive into Swiss culture—the National Museum Zurich. This grand historic building houses an extensive collection of artifacts and exhibits that trace Swiss history from prehistoric times to the modern era.
Don’t miss Kunsthaus Zurich, one of Switzerland’s premier art museums, also located in the Old Town. It features an impressive collection of European paintings, sculptures, and contemporary works by masters like Picasso, Monet, and Van Gogh.
The Swiss have a deep-rooted passion for the great outdoors, and it is easy to see why! Switzerland’s stunning landscapes are the perfect backdrop for hiking, skiing, and swimming. In Zurich, you don't even have to leave the city to immerse yourself in nature. Slip into some sturdy hiking shoes, wear comfortable attire, and hit the trails just as the locals do.
During the fleeting summer months, unwind along the serene shores of Lake Zurich. Take a stroll along the promenade, enjoy a leisurely picnic in a lakeside park, or rent equipment for water sports like jet skiing and paddleboarding.
Reach the height of luxury on Zurich’s Bahnhofstrasse, one of the world’s most exclusive shopping avenues. Here, you can browse a stunning array of high-end boutiques, upscale department stores, and designer shops, all showcasing an impressive selection of luxury goods (and, of course, Swiss watches)!
Zurich offers year-round activities and remains a popular destination even in winter when other European cities see fewer visitors, thanks to its excellent skiing resorts and proximity to the mountains.
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Summers are mild, with average temperatures around 65°F (19°C) and highs reaching 75°F (25°C)- the perfect weather for hikes in the Alps! With this in mind, the best time for your trip from Salzburg to Zurich is whenever you desire! If you're visiting in winter, be sure to warm up at the Christkindlimarkt, enjoying mulled wine, roasted chestnuts, and the festive atmosphere.
All Daytrip drivers speak English* as well as their native language (and sometimes additional languages too!). They'll be happy to discuss local history and culture with you, as well as answer any questions you may have. And because they speak the language, they're able to provide you with a unique opportunity to connect with local culture. *Drivers for Lite service aren't required to speak English but must meet all other standards.
We screen all our drivers for criminal and traffic records, and personally interview each one. We also inspect their cars for safety, comfort, and reliability. All cars must be less than ten years old, in excellent operating condition, and insured as required by local law. And because our drivers are locals, they're familiar with the rules and customs of the road.
If you’re traveling with children, make sure to let us know in the booking so we can get the appropriate child seats ready!
Pets are allowed (and loved)! We just need to know beforehand. You can tell us about them in the next phase of the booking.
Gratuity isn’t included or required, but if you really enjoyed your trip, you can show your driver your appreciation with an optional tip (10% is sufficient).
Each passenger is allowed to have one checked bag and one carry on. If you’re traveling with more bags or oversized luggage, you can adjust this while booking.
Pay by credit card online, or in cash directly to your driver!
If you have any questions, here are the answers.
Every traveler deserves real insight into the cultures of the countries they’re visiting. And every amazing place on Earth deserves to be visited and appreciated. We believe unique local knowledge and real human connection are irreplaceable when it comes to truly comprehending another culture.
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