Things To Do
in Bischofshofen
Nestled in the Pongau valley of Salzburg state, Bischofshofen blends Alpine scenery with a historic railway town atmosphere. Surrounded by green meadows and dramatic peaks, it serves as a gateway to the Hochkönig region and the Salzach valley. The town's heritage is tied to trade routes and the railway, while modern hospitality and outdoor recreation thrive here.
In winter, it hosts the world-famous ski jumping event at the Paul-Ausserleitner-Schanze, and in summer it becomes a base for hiking, cycling, and family adventures.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Bischofshofen and settle into your accommodation. Take a leisurely walk around the charming town center, exploring local shops and cafes. Enjoy the peaceful alpine atmosphere and scenic views of the surrounding mountains.
Visit the local museum to learn about the history and culture of the region. Have lunch at a traditional Austrian restaurant to savor regional specialties. Spend some time relaxing in a nearby park or along the Salzach riverbank.
Dine in a cozy tavern featuring authentic Austrian cuisine. Take an evening stroll under the stars to enjoy the tranquil ambiance. Rest early to prepare for an active day ahead.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast before heading out to the Gernkogel hiking trail. Enjoy panoramic views as you ascend through alpine meadows and forests. Observe local flora and fauna along the way.
Reach the summit and savor your packed lunch while taking in spectacular vistas of the Austrian Alps. Descend at a leisurely pace, stopping to capture photographs at scenic spots. Return to town feeling refreshed by the mountain air.
Treat yourself to a relaxing spa or wellness session in a nearby facility. Have dinner at a restaurant offering regional wines and dishes. Reflect on the day's adventure while enjoying the peaceful town ambiance.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🧀Grocery staples (bread, cheese, milk) | $8-12 |
| 🍺Local beer (0.5L) | $4-6 |
| 🚆Public transport (one-way) | $2-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, walkable town with easy access to Alpine scenery
- Gateway to Hochkönig and excellent winter sports nearby
- Genuine Austrian hospitality and regional cuisine
- Nightlife is low-key compared to larger cities
- Weather and driving conditions can be challenging in winter
- Limited large-scale shopping and entertainment options within town
- "Grüß Gott" - Hello
- "Danke" - Thank you
- "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
- "Wo ist der Bahnhof?" - Where is the train station?
- "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does that cost?
- "Bitte" - Please
- "Entschuldigung" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Ich verstehe nicht" - I don't understand
- "Könnten Sie mir helfen?" - Could you help me?
- "Prost!" - Cheers!
Places to Visit in Bischofshofen
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic ski-jump stadium with striking architecture; dramatic views of the Salzach valley, especially at sunrise.
Historic market square framed by pastel facades and the Baroque church—perfect for architectural and street photography.
Gentle riverside paths with mountains in the distance; ideal for golden-hour portraits and landscape shots.
Historic station and arches showcasing the town’s rail heritage; great for symmetry and urban scenes.
A hill with sweeping views over Bischofshofen and the surrounding Alps; spectacular at dusk.
Food in Bischofshofen
Bischofshofen Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A thin breaded and fried cutlet (often pork or veal), a staple at most traditional eateries.
Must-Try!
Egg-noodle dumplings with mountain cheese, typically served with sautéed onions and herbs.
A rustic board of cold cuts, cheeses, pickles, and bread—great for sharing.
A light, airy dessert named for the nearby Alps; a delightful finish to a meal.
Apple strudel with cinnamon and raisins, a classic Austrian pastry.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Fresh local produce, cheeses, bread, honey, and seasonal specialties; best on market day.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with 'Grüß Gott' or 'Servus' when meeting locals; a handshake is common in formal contexts.
Be punctual, quiet in public spaces, and respectful in churches and religious sites; dress modestly for traditional venues.
Ask to sit together in groups; tipping is customary but not mandatory beyond a small addition for service.
Safety
Tipping in Bischofshofen
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charges are not always included; rounding up or leaving 5–10% for good service is common in restaurants and cafés.
Cash and cards are widely accepted; contactless payments common in shops; some small venues may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with occasional rain; trails start drying out but can be muddy in lower elevations. Great for city strolls and early wildflowers.
Warm days (often 20–28°C) perfect for hiking, cycling, and lake swims; afternoon thunderstorms are possible.
Cooler temperatures with vibrant autumn foliage; quieter trails and harvest markets—great for photography and short hikes.
Snow-covered landscapes; prime time for Hochkönig ski areas nearby and the ski-jump season in town; expect cold days and cozy evenings.
Bischofshofen at Night
Hiking in Bischofshofen
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy to moderate ascent offering panoramic views of Bischofshofen and the surrounding Alps; accessible from the Karkogel area.
Classic Hochkönig massif circuit with alpine meadows and sweeping valley views; suitable for a full-day hike.
Scenic riverside hike along the Salzach with opportunities for short, rewarding side trips and photo stops.
Airports
How to reach Bischofshofen by plane.
Approx. 70–90 minutes by road or train from Bischofshofen; frequent international connections.
Around 2.5–3 hours by train or car; major hub with extensive international flights.
4–5 hours by rail or car; large hub with extensive global connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Families visit for outdoor activities and safe, friendly streets; many parks and family-friendly eateries exist.
Residents who travel to nearby towns for work; strong rail connections support daily commutes.
Winter skiers and summer hikers who contribute to a vibrant seasonal rhythm.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Hosted world-class events and a symbol of the town's winter identity.
Nearby Hochkönig region offers varied runs for all levels.
Groomed Nordic trails accessible in the winter months.
Popular in warmer months with panoramic mountain views.
Valley routes and alpine trails attract riders of all levels.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bischofshofen.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants offer vegetarian options; look for Kasnock’n, seasonal vegetable dishes, and hearty salads.