The city of Salzburg has implemented a driving ban in its historic center during the peak summer months of July and August, aiming to reduce traffic congestion and improve the urban environment for both residents and visitors. This move follows similar policies enacted in other European cities struggling with overtourism and vehicular overcrowding.

Authorities expect the restrictions to lower the number of daily vehicle entries into the old town by approximately 1,000. Salzburg’s park-and-ride facilities support the initiative by offering a day ticket for public transport at €7.50, which covers travel for up to five people. Officials hope this will encourage drivers to leave their cars outside the center and use public transit instead.

Mayor Bernhard Auinger emphasized that the ban targets mainly day-trippers coming from farther afield by car, clarifying that residents living in the central district and vehicles involved in business activities will not be affected. “We don’t want chaotic traffic situations like we saw last year,” Auinger said when announcing the policy in May. He noted that tourists visiting prominent attractions such as Mozart’s birthplace and the city’s baroque cathedral would ultimately benefit from reduced congestion and shorter travel times.

The decision to enforce the ban was prompted by rising complaints from locals regarding heavy traffic during the summer. “We basically allowed tourists to drive into our sitting room,” Auinger commented, highlighting the need to protect the quality of life in Salzburg’s historic neighborhoods.

Under the new measures, police will fine drivers registered outside the Salzburg region up to €80 if they enter the restricted zone around the Staatsbrücke (State Bridge) crossing the Salzach River without authorization. Several exemptions apply, including to commuters, delivery trucks, taxis, rental cars, disabled visitors, and guests with hotel bookings. Additionally, motorists from the nearby Bavarian towns of Berchtesgaden and Bad Reichenhall are permitted to enter the zone without penalty.

The enforcement of this traffic ban reflects Salzburg’s efforts to balance tourism growth with sustainable urban management, aiming to create a more enjoyable experience for visitors while addressing residents’ concerns about congestion and noise.