Last Updated on June 1, 2023 by Alba Quezada
There’s something about walking into a coffee shop, with the espresso shot being pulled, people talking and pastries being served, that easily makes you feel at home. Austria is known for its food and pastries, but no one warned me about their morning cappuccinos.
During our first week in Salzburg, AIFS put together a pastry-tasting at the oldest bakery in town, Carl Schatz-Konditorei. This may or may not have been the beginning of my pastry-and-coffee hour addiction. From cappuccinos, to espresso shots, to lattes, I soon became a self-proclaimed coffee connoisseur.
So, if you ever find yourself in Austria, this is your guide for where to find the best coffee in Salzburg.
1. Café Tomaselli
Alter Markt 9, 5020 Salzburg, Austria
Known for being Pinterest famous, Café Tomaselli sits right in the middle of old town, and conveniently enough, outside the Law building of the University Salzburg. While strolling around town, my friend and I stumbled upon it before realizing this was the picture we had been pinning months before our trip. The outside patio is beautiful during the late fall, but it is closed once the rain season starts. Be sure to get a chocolate croissant during your visit.
2. 220 grad
Chiemseegasse 5, 5020 Salzburg, Austria
Found during one of our aimless wanderings, Café 220 grad has the best coffee in Salzburg, hands down. The shop itself is very modern, and it is more so of a “hip” scene. 220 Grad is located in old town also, though a bit off the main path. While there, I ordered their Bailey Cappuccino and well, this will probably go down as the best coffee drink I’ve ever had. Their coffee is strong, but it makes for a killer latte. Also, you can’t forget about pastries… Order the 220 Grad cake. I’m still not sure what was in it since we were too busy enjoying how delicious it was. Also, fun fact, they serve breakfast!! P.S. Café 220 Grad is closed on Sundays & Mondays.
3. Café Bazar
Schwarzstraße 3, 5020 Salzburg, Austria
Known for its elegant chandeliers and location, Café Bazar sits right on the river. The atmosphere is nothing short of charming. This is the perfect place to plan your next weekend trip, while drinking a Verlängerter, which is a much fancier word for an Americano. You can also get breakfast, lunch and dinner here while enjoying the beautiful view of the city. Enjoy the patio during warm spring to early fall days!
4. Coffee Stands – We Love Coffee
Mozartsteg, 5020 Salzburg, Austria
This is probably the best part to Austrian Coffee Culture — cheap, yet delicious, coffee on the go. My friend and I stumbled upon this while taking a walking tour of the city with our awesome AIFS tour guide, Andreas. These coffee stands are all around the city, but my favorite one was one that sits right on the water at the end of the Mozart Bridge heading into town. 2-euro coffee, anyone? I definitely had a loyal customer card! Plus, how can you not come back when the owner is the sweetest lady ever? Oh Austrians, you get me.
This post was contributed by Alba Quezada, who studied abroad with AIFS in Salzburg, Austria.
