Sound of Music Tours SalzburgSound of Music & Salt Mines Day Tour Review
What the tour is like
You run through the original Sound of Music route (Mirabell, Nonnberg, Leopoldskron, Hellbrunn, Mondsee) in the morning. Instead of returning to Salzburg, you head southeast into Germany, to Berchtesgaden and the Salzbergwerk salt mine. You change into mining overalls (provided), and a guide takes you through tunnels mined for over 500 years. The highlight for most people is the wooden banister slides — polished smooth by centuries of miners, now a 30-metre slide into the next level. You end up in a chamber with an underground salt lake, where you can swim or wade (in your overalls, yes). The whole mine visit is 1.5–2 hours. You return to Salzburg usually around 7–8 p.m. It’s part film locations, part adventure day.
What works
- Two entirely different experiences in one day keeps energy high
- The salt mine is genuinely fun; the slides are a highlight even for adults
- Reviewers consistently note the 'fascinating' mine and guides with genuine enthusiasm
- Underground lake is a unique photo moment (yes, you can swim in overalls)
- A traveller from the US noted Jose (guide) was 'amazing' and the mines 'fascinating'
- A traveller from Australia noted they 'learnt a lot' and 'saw many beautiful places'
Worth knowing
- 11–12 hours is long; early start (8 a.m.) and late return (7–8 p.m.)
- You must bring a valid passport or ID (crossing into Germany)
- Salt mines can be cold (10–12 °C) even in summer; bring a light jacket
- Not ideal if you have mobility issues (stairs, uneven ground, 30-metre slide)
Bring a sweater. The salt mines are cold (10–12 °C even in July). Wear comfortable walking shoes with grip for the wooden slides. And yes, bring your passport — you’re crossing into Germany, even though it’s only 30 km south. A traveller from Australia praised the guide for making it both fun and educational.
Who it’s for
Visitors who want two distinct experiences in one day. Families with older children (the slide is memorable but requires mobility). Adventure-seekers who like something beyond just sightseeing. Travellers with a full day and a desire to do something genuinely different. History nerds (500 years of salt mining is a thing).
Not for you if: you want a shorter day (stick to the 4-hour Original), you hate confined spaces (the mine is underground and involves climbing), you’re on a tight budget (a full-day combo costs more than the Original), or you forgot your passport. Want a second destination without adventure? Try the Hallstatt combo instead.
Compare to other tours
Most booked
Best full dayFrequently asked questions
Is the salt mines tour worth it?
If you like outdoor adventure and mines, yes. You get the full Original Sound of Music tour plus a 500-year-old salt mine with slides and an underground lake. Reviewers called it 'fascinating' and 'amazing'. See price comparison.
Do we actually slide down the mine?
Yes. It’s a 30-metre polished-wood slide (no friction) from one level to the next. It’s fast and exhilarating. Wear grip shoes or bring socks.
Can we really swim in the underground lake?
Yes, but you’re in mining overalls. Most people wade or splash rather than full swimming. The water is cold and salty. You won’t sink.
How cold is the mine?
Around 10–12 °C year-round. Bring a sweater or light jacket, even in July. The cold is part of the experience.
Do we need a passport?
Yes. The mine is in Berchtesgaden, Germany. You need a valid passport or national ID card. The border crossing is straightforward; it’s within the Schengen area.