Salzburg outdoor weekend adventure Königssee & Krispl-Gaißau

Escape Salzburg: A Magical Alpine Weekend Adventure to Krispl-Gaißau & Königssee by Public Transport

No car? No problem! Ditch your Books to escape the Salzburg Study Grind. Leave the city to experience a traditional Austrian mountain hut in Krispl-Gaißau and the scenic Königssee.

Weekend Adventure instead of city grind?

Salzburg as a city has lots to offer and is a nice place to live and study. However, the city might become hectic and a trip into nature will help you reset your mind and gain new focus for another week at university. The nature around the city is beautiful and has lots of outdoor activities and experiences to offer.

Do you want to experience some alpine gems around Salzburg? Then this might be the perfect inspiration for you! This blog post is part of the Salzburg Public Transport Guide and will show you how to get to the famous Königssee and a traditional Austrian mountain hut in Krispl-Gaißau only by using public transport.

Are you ready for an Adventure?

Then pack your snacks, bring your camera and call your friends—it’s time to make memories in the mountains without breaking the bank!


Away from the crowds: Escape to Krispl-Gaißau

This is a more athletic activity as the hike from the bus station to the mountain hut takes around 1.5h – 2h. But don´t worry, it will be worth it! After the hike you will be rewarded with great views and authentic Austrian food either at the Latschenalm or the Spielbergalm. Both are charming mountain huts nestled in the rolling hills of Krispl-Gaißau.

Getting there is easier than you think

Weekend adventure at Krispl-Gaißau. Signposts to Wieserhörndl, Spielbergalm & Latschenalm

Step 1: At Salzburg Central Station hop on the Train S3 towards Golling/Abtenau and get off in Hallein.

Step 2: Switch to Bus 450, which takes you straight to the Gaißau Spielbergalm Lift (which is the stop you have to get off the bus). The total trip takes a bit more than 1 hour.

Step 3: From there, lace up your hiking boots and follow the trail to Spielberg-Gipfel/Spielbergalmen/Wieserhörndl/Latschenalm — in about 1.5 – 2h you will reach the beautiful alpine pasture of Krispl-Gaißau with stunning Alpine views.

The Hike

In general all the paths are well marked. Just follow the signs that point upwards and say Spielberg-Gipfel/Spielbergalmen/Wieserhörndl/Latschenalm. Once you reach the alpine pasture (a green grassy area that is a ski resort in the winter time) there will be the hut “Latschenalm” and the hut “Spielbergalm” that are connected by a broad gravel path. Just choose the hut you like better, they are both really nice.

Don´t forget: You should wear sturdy shoes for the hike and bring a water bottle to stay hydrated!

Getting here by public transport: Alpine pasture of Krispl-Gaißau
Alpine pasture of Krispl-Gaißau

Pro Tip

Start your hike mid-morning and you’ll reach the hut around lunchtime – perfect timing to relax and enjoy hearty Austrian dishes like Bauernkrapfen (a traditional Austrian pastry), Kaiserschmarrn (a sweet traditional fluffy ripped pancake) or another traditional dish like Schnitzel. Of course there is also cold drinks and lots of beer you can treat yourself to. Just have in mind the way back down 😉

Not Tired Yet?

Continue about 30 minutes to the top of Wieserhörndl (just follow the signs) where you will find stunning 360 degree views. It´s a short but slightly steep hike that takes you behind the skilift station.

Difficulty: intermediate

View to the Latschenalm, halfway up to the summit of Wieserhörndl

For more pictures and information feel free to check out these instagram accounts and websites:


Famous Destination: Dive into the Magic of Königssee

This one is an activity made to share about on your Socials! For this adventure it´s time to cross the border to Germany and explore the breathtaking Königssee. With its crystal-clear waters and dramatic mountain backdrop, it feels like stepping into a postcard.

Just take one Bus and you´re there!

Bus 840: Take the Bus 840 from Salzburg Hauptbahnhof (it also stops in the city center) and it will take you all the way to Königssee in about 1 hour. It´s as easy as that!

Königssee weekend adventure hiking map

Once you arrive, you’ll be greeted by the shimmering lake and the chance to hop on an electric boat to Salet and the church of St. Bartholomä.

Map of the boat trips

Don´t Miss:

  • The echo demonstration during your boat ride—it’s a unique Königssee tradition.
  • A hike to the Eiskapelle, a natural ice cave accessible in summer and autumn.
  • Fresh pretzels and smoked fish at the lakeside huts.

Whether you decide to go on a more challenging hike to the Eiskapelle or take it more relaxed by strolling along the lakes shore: the scenery of the Königssee will blow your mind. Even if there are many tourists during the summer months, it is a beautiful destination to visit for a day trip. However, if you have the chance to visit the lake in the off-season or early in the morning, this might make the experience more magical.

Whether you’re in the mood for adventure or relaxation, Königssee offers an unforgettable experience, and with public transport, it’s easier than ever to access.

If you want to see more information and inspiration about the Königssee, check out their profile and website:


Ready for your own weekend adventure? Pack light, hop on the bus, and leave the stress of city life behind for a rejuvenating escape into the Alps. Don’t forget to take lots of photos and tag your experience with #experiencesalzburg. recharged and ready for the week ahead.


If you want to see what prices and options for public transport exist in Salzburg check out this post:

To see what other things you can do in Salzburg by public transport see here:

New in Salzburg? Here is a guide showing you all the important places for your first days in the city:

https://experience-salzburg.at/living-in-salzburg-the-1-guide-for-students