So you’ve spent a few days enjoying all the things to do in Salzburg, Austria and now you’re craving a bit of time in the mountains. Why not enjoy a day trip to Gaisberg?
Gaisberg is a local mountain in Salzburg that stands 1,287 meters above sea level in the Salzkammergut Mountains, which is a mountain range that forms part of the Northern Limestone Alps.
Public transport makes it super easy to get there and all the hiking trails start at bus stops, so you can just ride the bus and start hiking.
Its ease of access makes it a popular day hiking destination with locals and visitors alike.
Plus, you have the draw of delicious Austrian cuisine that you can enjoy once you reach the mountaintop!
So if a day hiking in the mountains, enjoying alpine views, and feasting on hearty dishes is your idea of a good time, read on to find out how you too can do this day trip to Gaisberg.
How to get to Gaisberg
Getting to Gaisberg from Salzburg’s old town is very easy and only takes 30 minutes using public transportation.
That’s right! You can hop on a bus in the old town and in less than half an hour you can be enjoying the Alps!
We took bus #151 from Mirabellplatz. If you want to ride the bus right to the peak then get off at Gaisberg Gaisbergspitze. However, if you plan to hike you’ll want to get off earlier.
We got off at Gaisberg Zistelalm and joined the trailhead there.
Hiking Trails in Gaisberg
The nice thing about hiking in Gaisberg is that there are trails of all lengths and levels of difficulty. Hiking trails can range from 15 minutes to 3 hours, and are between 1 and 11 kilometres in length, so there’s something for everyone.
There are 3 circular trails in Gaisberg:
- Route 13a – Gaisberg Circular Trail – easy – 1-1½ h – 5.9 km – Line 151 to Zistelalm
- Route 13b – Zistel Trail – easy – 30 min – 2.6 km – Line 151 to Zistelalm
- Route 13c – Gaisberg Peak Circular Trail – easy – 15 min – 1 km – Line 151 to Gaisbergspitze
There are also several one-way hiking trails in Gaisberg. You can do them round trip, or hike up and then take the bus down:
- Route 12 – easy – 2¾ h – 6 km – Line 151 to Bildungscampus Gnigl, Line 2 or 23 to Obergnigl
- Route 13 – moderate – 2½ h – 6 km – Line 6 to Ludwig-Schmederer-Platz
- Route 14 – easy, but rocky – 2½ h – 8 km – Line 6 to Ludwig-Schmederer-Platz
- Route 15 – Dr. Herbert Walterskirchen Trail – easy – 2¾ h – 11 km – Line 7 to Aigen S-Bahn
- Route 16 – easy – 3 h – 11 km – Line 7 to Josef-Kaut-Strasse or Valkenauerstrasse
- Route 17 – moderate (long, steep and slippery in parts above Zistelalm) – 3 h – 11 km – Line 7 to Josef-Kaut-Strasse (17a) or Valkenauerstrasse (17)
We hiked up from Zistelalm and alternated between a trail that started off a bit steep, and later another that was easier and zigzagged the rest of the way up the mountain.
There were plenty of markers along the way, so we felt quite confident even though there weren’t very many hikers on our trail.
You can find the Gaisberg hiking trails map here complete with bus lines, bus schedules, and descriptions of each trail.
Eating Austrian food in Gaisberg
Once we reached the summit of Gaisberg, there were a couple of restaurants to choose from. We ate at Goasn Wirsthaus.
We were lucky enough to snag a table outdoors after waiting around a few minutes (it was packed!) and proceeded to order some typical Austrian dishes.
We got Marend, which is a snacking board featuring an assortment of mountain cheeses, cured meats, sausages, spreads, breads, grapes, eggs, olives, and more. It felt like the perfect alpine snack and paired wonderfully with two pints of Stiegl beer.
And because we were pretty hungry from the hike up, we also got the Kasnocken, a noodle dish that’s fried in a pan with cheese and topped with crispy onions.
This was actually one of our favourite meals in Salzburg, so we’d highly recommend it if you’re able to get a table!
If this dish sounds familiar its because this is Austria’s version of Germany‘s Käsespätzle. If you’re travelling in the region, you’re bound to encounter it on the menu often!
There are a few other restaurants sprinkled around Gaisberg, so depending on which trail you hike, you’ll have different dining options along the way.
Is a day trip to Gaisberg worth it?
After enjoying a leisurely lunch and soaking in the views from the mountaintop, we then hopped on local bus 151 and rode back into Salzburg. The trip was as easy as can be and it offered a nice taste of nature without having to travel very far.
It’s easy to see why Gaisberg is such a popular destination with locals and visitors alike – the ease of getting there makes it the hiking destination of choice.
I also think a day trip to Gaisberg is a nice way to get a taste of the Alps, especially if your travels aren’t taking you as far as Tyrol (though I would recommend adding the Alpbachtal Valley and attending the Almabtrieb to your list for a future visit!)
If this day trip to Gaisberg is of interest, then you might also enjoy a day trip to Werfen. This is another super easy day trip from Salzburg (only 45 minutes by train) and you can spend the day hiking The Sound of Music trail, visiting Hohenwerfen Castle, rafting on the Salzach River, touring the largest ice caves in the world, or enjoying more Austrian cuisine.
Gaisberg Day Trip: Practical Tips & Extra Mountain Adventures 🏞️🥨
When’s the Best Time to Hike Gaisberg?
Let’s talk timing. Gaisberg is beautiful all year. But each season brings a different vibe:
- Spring: Wildflowers, gushing streams, fewer crowds. Some trails can be muddy after snowmelt, so bring waterproof shoes.
- Summer: Peak hiking and biking season! Longer daylight, bustling mountain restaurants, and epic views—but weekends can get busy, so start early if you want a quiet trail (and a table at Goasn Wirsthaus!).
- Autumn: Crisp air, golden forests, and panoramic vistas—arguably the most photogenic time to visit. Austrian autumn is also prime time for harvest festivals in the valleys below.
- Winter: Gaisberg is a snow-lover’s playground. Trails near the peak are groomed for winter hiking and snowshoeing, plus there’s a toboggan run for anyone feeling adventurous. Just check conditions and dress for the cold!
What to Pack for a Day Trip to Gaisberg
Here’s your quick and practical Gaisberg packing list:
- Comfortable hiking shoes (waterproof if possible—some trails can be muddy!)
- Light jacket or sweater (even in summer, mountaintop breezes can be chilly)
- Rain jacket or small umbrella (mountain weather = unpredictable)
- Reusable water bottle (refill at restaurants or with fresh alpine water)
- Sunscreen & hat (the sun is stronger at altitude)
- Snacks or a packed lunch (for trail breaks—though honestly, you’ll want to eat at the mountaintop restaurants)
- Camera or smartphone (you’ll take so many photos)
- Small cash (for bus fares, snacks, or that cheeky pint at the summit)
- Trekking poles (optional, but helpful on steep or rocky sections)
- Map or offline map app (trail markers are good, but tech never hurts)
Other Things To Do In Gaisberg: Activities Beyond Hiking
Even if hiking isn’t your main motivation, Gaisberg has plenty on tap:
Cycling Up Gaisberg
Are you a road cyclist or e-bike enthusiast? Gaisberg’s winding road is a classic climb for local cyclists—if you’re up for a challenge, rent a bike in Salzburg and join the steady stream of weekend pedalers. E-bikes are a great way for casual riders to enjoy the views without breaking a sweat.
Paragliding Adventures
Feeling brave? The peak of Gaisberg is a launch point for paragliders! Watching them soar over Salzburg is thrilling enough—but if you’ve always wanted to try tandem paragliding, several local outfits can arrange a jump for you (weather permitting). Imagine floating above the Alps… Not your average day trip!
Snow Fun in Winter
In the colder months, Gaisberg transforms into a snowy playground. Rent a toboggan, try winter hiking trails, or simply enjoy a mug of hot chocolate while soaking in the snowy scenery. The local bus operates year-round, so getting here is always easy.
Nature Watching & Forest Bathing
Not every mountain outing has to be hardcore! There are plenty of short, scenic loops that pass through wildflower meadows and cool, shady forests—perfect for a gentle stroll, forest bathing, or a peaceful sit-down with a book.
Taste of the Alps: Local Food Experiences on Gaisberg
Austrian mountain food is the reward for every hike! Beyond the Marend boards and Kasnocken you already know and love, here are some other local dishes to try if you spot them on the menu:
- Gulaschsuppe: Rich, spicy beef goulash soup—warms you up instantly!
- Kaiserschmarrn: Fluffy, shredded pancakes dusted with icing sugar and served with fruit compote (order for dessert, or just as lunch, no judgement!).
- Apfelstrudel: The classic apple strudel—served warm with cream or vanilla sauce.
- Brettljause: A rustic platter of cold cuts, pickles, cheese, radishes, and fresh bread—best enjoyed with a view.
- Stiegl Beer or Almdudler: Wash down your meal with a local Salzburg brew or the herbal lemonade that Austrians adore.
If you’re hiking with kids or prefer a light meal, mountain restaurants also offer soups, salads, and kid-friendly options.
Extend Your Day: What Else Can You Do Near Gaisberg
If you have a little extra time or energy (or the weather just can’t be beat), you can easily combine Gaisberg with other adventures:
Sound of Music Sites
Many iconic “Sound of Music” filming locations are within striking distance of Salzburg. Before or after your Gaisberg hike, swing by Hellbrunn Palace, Mirabell Gardens, or Leopoldskron Palace for a taste of cinematic history.
Salzburg’s Lake District
The Salzkammergut region is dotted with stunning alpine lakes. If you’re keen for a swim, a boat ride, or just lakeside relaxation, consider hopping a bus or train out to Fuschlsee, Wolfgangsee, or Mondsee.
Salzburg Old Town
After a day on the trails, reward yourself with an evening stroll through Salzburg’s Old Town. Enjoy coffee and cake at a traditional café, catch a classical concert, or climb up to Hohensalzburg Fortress for sunset views.
Wellness & Spa Breaks
Looking to relax those muscles? Salzburg is famous for its wellness hotels and spas—some even offer thermal baths with mountain views. Book a soak or massage and end your hiking day in total alpine bliss.
Responsible Hiking: How to Care for Gaisberg
Austria is incredibly proud of its natural spaces. Thus, visitors are expected to follow a few basic rules to keep the Alps beautiful:
- Stay on marked trails to prevent erosion and protect plant life.
- Take your rubbish back to Salzburg—bins are few and far between.
- Don’t pick wildflowers (they’re for everyone to enjoy!).
- Greet fellow hikers with a cheerful “Grüß Gott!”—it’s the local hello.
- Keep noise to a minimum and respect wildlife.
Quick-Reference Cheat Sheet
| Item | Need-to-Know |
|---|---|
| Elevation | 1,287 m (4,222 ft) |
| Vertical Gain (Zistelalm → Summit) | ≈350 m (1,150 ft) |
| Bus 151 Frequency | Every 30 min from Mirabellplatz (06:35–19:35); hourly evenings |
| Best Panoramas | • Summit air-traffic radar dome • ‘Paraglider Meadow’ (5 min west of Goasn Wirt) • Nockerlbank Viewpoint on Route 13a |
Frequently Asked Questions: Gaisberg Edition
Q: Is Gaisberg suitable for families with children or older travelers?
Absolutely! Many of the trails are gentle, there are rest stops and restaurants along the way, and the bus makes it easy to skip strenuous parts. Just choose the route that matches your group’s ability.
Q: Can I bring my dog?
Yes, Gaisberg is dog-friendly! Just keep pups leashed, bring water, and be prepared to clean up after them.
Q: Are the trails accessible in winter?
Many are, but always check conditions—some may be closed due to snow or ice. The summit restaurant stays open and the bus runs all year.
Q: What about sunrise or sunset hikes?
Magical! But check bus schedules or be prepared for a longer walk back to town if you stay late. Bring a headlamp and extra layers.