The historic centre of Salzburg is set for a rare reprieve from the chaos of tourist traffic this summer, as the city introduces a ban on non-local cars entering the area during July and August. The move aims to alleviate the crippling congestion that has plagued visitors and residents alike in recent years.
According to Mayor Bernhard Auinger, some 1,000 fewer vehicles will enter the centre each day under the new rules, dubbed "less traffic, more city." While locals and business-related traffic are exempt from the ban, day-trippers arriving by car from further afield will face fines of up to €80 (approximately £68) if they attempt to enter the restricted zone.
To encourage tourists to explore the city without their cars, park-and-ride facilities will offer a day ticket including local public transport for up to five people at €7.50 (around £6.45). The initiative is part of a broader effort to reduce traffic and improve quality of life in Salzburg's UNESCO-listed historic centre.
The policy has been influenced by similar schemes implemented in Italian cities like Rome, Florence, and Pisa, as well as Dubrovnik's own ban on tourist vehicles. With over three million overnight stays annually, Salzburg is one of the most popular destinations in Europe – a fact underlined by last year's record-breaking numbers due to celebrations marking the 60th anniversary of 'The Sound of Music.'
The city council approved the plan in May, and police patrols will enforce it throughout the summer months. Residents are hoping that the restrictions will bring some much-needed relief from the congestion, which has become increasingly unbearable in recent years.