Spring (April-May): Delightful weather with blooming gardens, fewer crowds than summer, and Easter markets. Temperatures range 10-20°C. Perfect for outdoor exploration without peak season crowds. Some mountain attractions begin opening.
Summer (June-August): Peak tourist season with Salzburg Festival (late July-August) attracting culture enthusiasts worldwide. Warm weather (20-28°C) ideal for outdoor activities, but expect large crowds and highest prices. Book accommodations months ahead for festival period. Longest daylight hours enable extended sightseeing.
Autumn (September-October): Excellent visiting period with pleasant temperatures (12-18°C), beautiful foliage, harvest festivals, and reduced crowds. Clear alpine views and still-operational mountain attractions. Significantly better accommodation availability and value than summer.
Winter (November-March): Magical Christmas markets (late November-January), snow-dusted mountains, and festive atmosphere. Cold temperatures (-2 to 5°C) but charming winter experiences. January-February quietest period with lowest prices. Some attractions have reduced hours. Ideal for budget travelers and those seeking authentic local atmosphere without tourist masses.
Best Overall: Late May-June and September offer optimal weather, manageable crowds, and reasonable prices.