Passau to Salzburg and Hallstatt: Private day trip

Salzburg is picture book Austria and no visitor should miss out on the view of the Old Town’s kaleidoscope of domes and spires, the imposing castle fortress and the stunning alpine scenery of the mountains that lie beyond. The Old Town is a place where time easily slips by as you wander and wander. Check out Mozart’s birthplace and soak up the grandeur of the churches and monumental squares that appear one after the other. The city also rewards those who are prepared to look slightly further afield. Meander the narrow side streets accompanied by the classical music that seems to waft from each window and stop by one of the city’s café’s to sample the mouthwatering cake and coffee. Let Salzburg work its charm on you to leave you with an unforgettable memory as you absorb its incredible skyline, the ever-present music and its thousand-year-old history.

Hallstatt's allure is plain to see: a picture-perfect town on an alpine lake surrounded by mountains. Walk the streets past the centuries-old buildings, and simply take in the amazing views. The charming town is so popular that an exact replica was built in Huizo, China as a tourist attraction. Towering over the picturesque town is the oldest salt mine in the world - the Salzberg (Salt Mountain), where you can explore tunnels dug by hand over 3000 years ago. If you’ve never been to a salt mine, then this is the place to do it. Head to the top of the mountain on foot or by funicular to the spectacular viewing platform that hovers above the rooftops of the town below and offers eye-popping panoramic views of Lake Hallstatt and the mountain scenery. Listen to the gentle lapping of the lake before launching yourself down one of the two 200-foot slides in the mine. Then sit back and relax on the train that takes you out of the mountain at a gentler pace. We recommend adding an extra 2 hours to your visit if you'd like to venture into the mines. For those looking to delve underground again, the Dachstein Ice Caves overlooking the lake are a breathtaking natural phenomenon. Be sure to wear warm clothing and add another 2 hours to your stop.