Cycling day trip from Salzburg to Bad Ischl

If you’re ready for a stunning day on two wheels, jump on your bike in Salzburg—famous for Mozart, baroque charm, and The Sound of Music—and head southeast to Bad Ischl. This ride covers about 60 kilometers, with a decent bit of climbing (over 1,100 meters ascent!), but you’re rewarded with Alpine scenery and lovely Austrian villages along the way.

The route is mostly on quiet roads and cycleways, with a bit of gravel and unpaved stretches (just enough adventure to keep things interesting). You’ll wind through lush valleys, glide alongside rivers, and if you look up, snow-capped peaks might peek through.

Bad Ischl awaits at the end: a cozy spa town that was once the summer retreat for Emperor Franz Joseph and Empress Sisi. There’s history, gorgeous old villas, and—you’ve earned it—amazing pastries at Café Zauner.

Pack an extra layer, some snacks, and don’t forget your camera. This ride delivers that storybook Austria vibe every pedal of the way!