Budget friendly travel guide from London to Saalbach

Embarking on a budget-friendly journey from London to Saalbach, Austria, is an exciting adventure that combines meticulous planning with the thrill of exploring the Austrian Alps without breaking the bank. By carefully selecting your travel dates, transportation, accommodation, and activities, you can enjoy a memorable trip that balances cost and comfort.

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How to truly plan your trip to the very last detail

The real money saving comes from paying attention to all your travel needs when making a realistic travel budget. We have made an extensive list for all the specifics of a trip from London to Saalbach.

1. Choose the right vacation period

When is the best time to travel to the Austrian Alps?

Selecting the optimal time for your trip is crucial for both budget considerations and overall experience.

What to consider

Ideal Travel Seasons:
Saalbach is renowned for its skiing during the winter months (December to March) and hiking/biking in the summer (June to September). Traveling during the shoulder seasons—late January to early February or September—can offer pleasant weather with fewer crowds and potentially lower prices.

Avoiding Peak Periods:
Be mindful of school holidays and public holidays in both the UK and Austria, as these times often see an influx of tourists and higher prices. For instance, UK half-term breaks in mid-February and Austrian holidays can lead to crowded slopes and increased accommodation rates.

Airline Discounts:
Look out for periods when airlines offer major discounts to flights.

Personal Comfort:
Most important: Choose a time frame that works for you and that you are comfortable with. Don't forget that travelling is as stressful as it is exciting.

2. Airline Options and Flight Research

Why is it important to carefully select your flight?

Efficiently managing your flights is a significant aspect of budget travel.

The closest major airport to Saalbach is Salzburg Airport (SZG), approximately 90 km away. Alternatively, Munich Airport (MUC) is about 220 km from Saalbach. Best initial assessment starts with Google Flights.

Ryanair Option

Cheap flights from London to Salzburg: Ryanair

• Low-cost airline: Ryanair. Start by checking out their Fare Finder.
• Airport Transfer: Ryanair operates flights to Saalbach from Stansted Airport. Use CheckMyBus to find the cheapest fare for your dates and times (trip duration by bus: 50 minutes).
• Additional Option: Consider taking a train—the fastest way to reach Stansted Airport from Central London is via the Stansted Express.

Luggage Considerations:
Winter clothes are voluminous. Ryanair’s basic fare includes only a small backpack; extra bags may cost more (refer to the provided fare options).

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easyJet Option

Cheap flights from London to Salzburg: easyJet

• Low-cost airline: easyJet. Use their Fare Finder.
• Airports Served: Flights to Salzburg depart from Luton Airport and Gatwick Airport.
• Luggage Considerations: easyJet’s basic fare includes only a small backpack. Extra bags will cost approximately £50 per person, per flight (with around £100 extra for a round trip with luggage).
• Transport Options:
  • For Luton, use CheckMyBus to find the cheapest transport options.
  • For Gatwick, the fastest transfer is the Gatwick Express (Anytime Return tickets usually go for £40.80; approximately 30 minutes from London Victoria to Gatwick).

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3. Transfer Fares: Salzburg Airport to Saalbach

Fastest and Cheapest way to Saalbach?

Once you've landed, economical transfer options are available to reach Saalbach.

Public Transportation: Train and Bus Combination

• Route:
  1. From Salzburg Airport, take the No. 2 bus to Salzburg Hauptbahnhof (main train station).
  2. Board a train to Zell am See.
  3. Upon arrival in Zell am See, transfer to the Postbus line 680, which goes directly to Saalbach.
• Duration: Approximately 3 to 4 hours, depending on connections.
• Cost: Total costs range between €13 and €20.
• Details:
  • Trains to Zell am See (operated by ÖBB) run every two hours; journey time is around 2 hours.
  • Postbus Line 680 connects Zell am See to Saalbach (check current timetables online).

Shuttle Services

• Saalbach Airport Shuttle: Direct transfers from Salzburg Airport to accommodation in Saalbach Hinterglemm. Reservations via Austria Transfer; prices start at €120 for two persons.
• Alps2Alps: Provides private transfers; journey time is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes with transfers starting from €40 per person.
• Holiday Shuttle: Operates several times a day between Salzburg Airport and Saalbach-Hinterglemm; approximately €100 for a round trip per person.
• Taxi Services: Available for direct transfers; fares vary (confirm prices before departure).

By considering these options and planning ahead, you can choose the transfer method that best fits your budget and schedule, ensuring a smooth journey from Salzburg Airport to Saalbach.

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4. Best Value Accommodation in Saalbach

There is no one size fits all when it comes to accommodation

Traveling on a tight budget or with a generous one, your priorities might differ, and this guide is here to provide realistic cost expectations.

Saalbach offers a variety of budget-friendly lodging options. Booking in advance and considering accommodations slightly outside the town center can yield better rates.

What are your priorities?

• Proximity to the ski lifts?
• Luxury amenities (e.g., rooftop panoramic restaurant, indoor swimming pool, SPA center)?
• Breakfast included?
• Unobstructed mountain views from your room?
• Proximity to public transport?
• Private room or hostel?
• In the heart of Saalbach or slightly outside the center?
• Property with lots of solid reviews?

Accommodation Options:

• Hostels and Guesthouses: Dorm beds or rooms range from €30 to €60 per night.
• Budget Hotels: Typically charge between €70 and €100 per night.
• Apartments: Renting an apartment can be cost-effective, especially for groups; prices vary based on location and amenities.

5. Food in Saalbach

With a bit of online menu checking before dinner, you can enjoy yourself even on a budget

Managing daily expenses is key to staying within your budget.

Meal Options

• Self-Catering: Many accommodations offer kitchen facilities. Purchasing groceries and preparing your own meals can significantly reduce costs.
• Local Dining: Explore local eateries and cafés where traditional Austrian dishes are hearty and affordable.

6. Skiing in Saalbach

How much is a ski pass in Saalbach?

The cost of a 3-day ski pass during the peak season (December 21, 2024, to March 30, 2025) is €222 for adults.
Check out the official website for online tickets.

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