salzburg tourist sights

Salzburg   Travel Guide

17 Best Things To Do in Salzburg

Updated May. 16, 2022

Would you rather live like a king or a world-renowned classical composer? If you choose the former, you'll find yourself at home in the Schloss Hellbrunn  admiring its furniture and the grounds, or in the Mirabellgarten  while perusing the flowers.

• All Things To Do

Altstadt (Old Town) Altstadt (Old Town) free

Since this central district – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – contains some of the city's most popular attractions, such as  Mozarts Geburtshaus  and the  Salzburg Museum , you will undoubtedly spend hours exploring here. Fellow travelers recommend not rushing through it, however, since there are tons of architectural marvels, markets and shops to see.

Wander around Altstadt's Judengasse (the Jewish District) and examine the St. Florian Fountain in the Alter Markt, a marketplace that dates back to the 13th century. And for architecture buffs, spend plenty of time gazing at the neighborhood's array of buildings. Some structures were originally constructed during the Middle Ages, while others are more contemporary and show Alstadt's progression over time.

Dom zu Salzburg (Salzburg Cathedral) Dom zu Salzburg (Salzburg Cathedral) free

A giant monument to this city's religion, power and wealth, Dom zu Salzburg awes visitors with its turquoise domes and towering facade. Built, burned and rebuilt multiple times in the past millennia, the current structure – which was renovated in the 1940s and 50s after the roof suffered damage from World War II – demonstrates the pinnacle of early Baroque ecclesiastical architecture.

During your visit to this 17th-century monument, pay particular attention to the structure's smaller details – such as the statues of apostles Peter and Paul at the front, or the individual murals on the copulas – to appreciate its supreme craftsmanship and ornamentation. And music lovers will appreciate the cathedral's prominence in Mozart's life: The building served as the location of the musical prodigy's baptism, as well as where some of his pieces were composed during his time as an organist.

Mirabellgarten (Mirabell Gardens) Mirabellgarten (Mirabell Gardens) free

This 17th-century paradise on the east side of the Salzach River shelters notable sites like the Pegasus Fountain, the Dwarf Garden and the set of stairs where Julie Andrews and company practiced "Do-Re-Mi" in "The Sound of Music." Visitors like to explore the beautiful winding paths, snap photos of the unique sculptures or simply drink in the sights. Angel Staircase, a supreme example of the Baroque style, impresses visitors daily.

If you can, visit in summer. That's when Mirabellgarten's flowers are in bloom. In the backdrop, you'll see Schloss Mirabell (Mirabell Palace), which hosts Salzburg's municipal government.

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Festung Hohensalzburg (Hohensalzburg Fortress) Festung Hohensalzburg (Hohensalzburg Fortress)

Never conquered by enemy troops, Festung Hohensalzburg opened to the public in the late 19th century. It was originally built in 1077 in preparation for a conflict between Pope Gregor VII and Emperor Henry IV. Over the centuries, the complex has grown, serving as a prison, an army camp and, of course, a military stronghold. Today, a torture chamber, several courtyards and three small museums – the Fortress, the Rainer Regiments and the Marionette – reside within its walls.

When you visit, you'll notice this fortress' rugged purposes did not dissuade rulers from adorning the interior lavishly. Some of the oldest Gothic-style rooms have intricate wood paneling, elaborate door frames and vaulted ceilings, all of which have been beautifully maintained, according to past travelers. And despite the eclectic decor, most people appreciate the imposing exterior. For stunning views of Salzburg and the surrounding area, make your way to the top of the compound – a highlight for many recent visitors.

Schloss Hellbrunn (Hellbrunn Palace) Schloss Hellbrunn (Hellbrunn Palace)

Although "The Sound of Music" was shot at a handful of locations throughout Salzburg, the movie's gazebo scene, where Liesl and Rolf sang "Sixteen Going on Seventeen," was filmed at Schloss Hellbrunn. But even without the cult movie's following, travelers say this 17th-century palace would still be enormously popular. The simple exterior hides exquisitely decorated rooms, ballrooms and halls (check out the octagonal music room). Here, you'll preview the lives of Salzburg's archbishops, the former religious and political rulers of the region who built its pleasure palaces, which were primarily used for enjoyment and recreation.

Immaculately maintained, the gardens have stolen much of the thunder from the actual residence. This 17th-century palace is the only royal estate in the world that will squirt you with water if you aren't looking. The Wasserspiele, or trick fountains, send streams of cool water at visitors from humorously placed jets – an archbishop's idea of a joke. So, if you're not looking to get wet, make sure to wear a poncho while wandering the gardens.

Cable Car Untersberg (Untersbergbahn) Cable Car Untersberg (Untersbergbahn)

Winter sports enthusiasts, hikers and those in search of a panoramic view will all appreciate the Untersbergbahn, a cable car that takes travelers up the Untersberg mountain range in just 8.5 minutes. At the top of the mountain, which sits more than 6,000 feet above sea level, visitors are rewarded with spectacular views of Salzburg, the Berchtesgaden region and the Rositten valley.

Originally opened in 1961 and renovated in 2018, the funicular features two cable cars that can each accommodate up to 50 passengers. When visitors disembark at the top, they'll find themselves in alpine terrain with a variety of hiking trails at their fingertips. Closed-toe footwear that provides traction is necessary, as is appropriately warm clothing – even summer may be chilly. To get back down, visitors can hop back on the Untersbergbahn.

Mozarts Geburtshaus (Mozart's Birthplace) Mozarts Geburtshaus (Mozart's Birthplace)

If you're looking to tour a quintessential Salzburg attraction, then a stop at Mozarts Geburtshaus is a must. Born on Jan. 27, 1756 on the third floor of this property, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart resided with his family here until 1773. Now the building houses a museum that chronicles the musical prodigy's early years. Artifacts from his life are spread out between this site and  Mozarts Wohnhaus , where the famous composer also lived.  

If you're short on time and can only visit one of these melodious houses, however, spring for Mozarts Geburtshaus. On display there are exhibits like Wolfgang's childhood violin, portraits and family letters. Exhibits are stretched among three levels: Visitors learn about Mozart's family and birth on the third floor, progress to his opera-composing period on the second, and get an insight into his everyday family life on the final ground floor. Travelers claim all of the exhibits are extremely informative and interesting, even if you aren't big on classical music.

DomQuartier Salzburg DomQuartier Salzburg

In the 1500s, Salzburg's prince-archbishops planned an Italian Baroque-style city center that today is considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The elaborate buildings they commissioned reflected the prince-archbishops' power over both religious and more earthly matters. The resulting DomQuartier is a series of harmoniously conceived buildings: a cathedral, Residenz precinct and St. Peter's Abbey.

Visitors to the Residenz can tour the prince-archbishops' elaborate state rooms, which feature Italianate frescoes, soaring arched ceilings and elaborate flooring. The Residenzgalerie boasts a collection of European paintings spanning the 16th to 19th centuries. Meanwhile, the Cathedral Museum permanently exhibits artwork from the Salzburg Archdiocese that date back as far as the eighth century, as well as temporary art exhibits. St. Peter's Abbey is also easily accessed in the DomQuartier.

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Salzburg Zoo Hellbrunn Salzburg Zoo Hellbrunn

For nature lovers, there is an animal for everyone at Salzburg Zoo Hellbrunn. Home to 150 species and more than 1,500 animals, the zoo groups animals by continent of origin and provides spacious, naturalistic enclosures. Among the animals you'll spot here are African penguins, cheetahs, lemurs, kangaroos and a variety of reptiles.

For those visiting Salzburg for its history, there is plenty of that at the zoo, too. In the 15th century, the area was part of a wildlife park at Hellbrunn Estate. The palace and fountains remain popular attractions in their own right.

Haus der Natur Haus der Natur

Conceived as the "new natural history museum," Haus der Natur was founded in 1924. Today, it offers family-friendly nature presentations spread out across more than 75,000 square feet. There is an aquarium, an outer space hall, and exhibits on dinosaurs and the human body.

Haus der Natur brings visitors face to face with fish and reptiles at its Aquarium & Reptile Zoo. Meanwhile, the Science Center offers hands-on experiments – a reprieve from the no-touch rules at Salzburg's historic sites – that explore everything from physics and music to electricity and water. What's more, there are a dozen permanent exhibits and a rotating cast of temporary exhibits. An observatory, a cafe and a gift shop round out the offerings.

St. Peter's Abbey St. Peter's Abbey free

St. Peter's Abbey was founded in 696, making it one of the oldest monasteries in the German-speaking region. It includes St. Peter's Church, Friedhof St. Peter (a cemetery), the oldest library in Austria and the oldest restaurant in central Europe. The cemetery's catacombs date to antiquity, and are considered a must-see for "The Sound of Music" fans (the von Trapp family hid here before escaping the Nazis).

Against the backdrop of beautiful 17th-century abbey architecture (much of it restored and updated in varying styles), Mozart composed "Dominicus Mass," which the abbot commissioned in 1769. Not long after, Haydn was similarly commissioned to write "Rupert Mass." The strong musical tradition continues today, with concert events and dinner concerts in various parts of the abbey complex.

Petersfriedhof (St. Peter's Cemetery) Petersfriedhof (St. Peter's Cemetery) free

Friedhof St. Peter is one of the world's oldest cemeteries, believed to date back to late antiquity. Nestled in the St. Peter's Abbey complex, it is the final resting place of many of Salzburg's aristocratic families, as well as Maria Anna Mozart – Wolfgang Amadeus' older sister, and a musician in her own right. Its catacombs are another highlight here. They were carved into the Mönchsberg mountain and are believed to date back to the 1100s.

Along with its notable inhabitants, the cemetery is famous for its beautiful architecture. This includes the Romanesque Chapel of the Holy Cross and St. Margaret's Chapel. The cemetery's beautiful setting and haunting catacombs made it an ideal filming location for a dramatic scene in "The Sound of Music."

Salzburg Museum Salzburg Museum

The Salzburg Museum has a wide range of archaeological and artistic treasures: from a 17th-century carillon (a set of mechanized bells) that plays Mozart compositions to religious Renaissance paintings and artifacts from Salzburg's early Roman origins. The most remarkable exhibit (listed as a separate museum for admission) contains several 360-degree panorama paintings. Still, recent visitors profess the true marvel of the museum is the facility itself.

In 2007, the Salzburg Museum reopened at a new location in Altstadt . The museum is located inside the Neue Residenz, an "overflow" palace for royal guests, diplomats and advisors. While most recent visitors were impressed with the building, they offered less praise for the displays, which some described as boring. However, if you're hoping to gain a better understanding of Salzburg history, in addition to the impact of current events, this could be a worthy stop.

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Stiegl Brauwelt Stiegl Brauwelt

After drinking in Salzburg's history, help yourself to a taste of its beer. Stiegl Brauwelt is the city's largest private brewery. Boasting a brewpub, a beer garden, a beer bar and a gourmet restaurant, as well as a museum, Stiegl-Brauwelt takes its craft seriously. They have to – 90,000 bottles of Stiegl beer are filled each hour!

Once you enjoy a drink or a meal, tour the museum to learn about the history of brewing at Stiegl. Many different interactive tours are offered. The general guided tour includes three beer tastings. There are also family friendly options, including a student program and treasure hunt. Self-guided visits are also available.

Mozarts Wohnhaus (Mozart's Residence) Mozarts Wohnhaus (Mozart's Residence)

Before Mozart relocated to Vienna , he wrote many cherished symphonies, concertos and operas at Mozarts Wohnhaus, the composer's former home, which sits across the Salzach River from  Mozarts Gerburtshaus  and Festung Hohensalzburg . Unfortunately, only a third of the original house remains intact due to a World War II bomb blast. An office building was initially constructed in the devastated section, but was torn down in 1994. The property has since been restored to its original state.

Exhibitions at Mozarts Wohnhaus display the composer's original drafts and sheet music written in Salzburg. Most notably, Mozart's original pianoforte resides here, as well as a famous portrait of the Mozart family. And although some recent visitors wished more information was provided about Mozart's life, many appreciated the artifacts on display. However, if you only have time to visit one Mozart site, visitors suggest his birthplace rather than this museum.

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18 Top-Rated Things to Do in Salzburg

Written by Bryan Dearsley and Joni Sweet Updated Dec 25, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Salzburg is one of Europe's most beautiful cities. Located in northwest Austria, it's as popular among tourists for its well-preserved historical architecture as it is for its magnificent Alpine setting.

This picturesque city stretches along both banks of the River Salzach as it emerges from the Salzburg Alps into lower land dominated by the 1,853-meter Untersberg. Its romantic Old Town district is a must-visit attraction, a compact neighborhood of narrow medieval streets and arcaded courtyards that are fun to explore. So, too, are the spacious squares of the residential area between the Neutor and the Neugebäude districts.

Salzburg also enjoys a special fame in the world of music as the birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart . This rich musical heritage is reflected in tourist attractions such as the museum in his family home, various festivals showcasing his music, and even the melodies that ring out daily on the city's famous Glockenspiel. Several of Salzburg's attractions were also used as filming sites for The Sound of Music , and these are a particular draw for tourists.

Find out all the best places to visit while on vacation in this beautiful corner of Austria with our list of the best things to do in Salzburg.

1. Explore Salzburg's Old Town (Altstadt Salzburg)

2. climb to fortress hohensalzburg, 3. see st. peter's abbey, 4. visit historic st. peter's church, 5. tour salzburg cathedral, 6. explore the residenzplatz, 7. explore the salzburg residenz and the residenzgalerie, 8. see how the wealthy of old lived: hellbrunn palace and fountains, 9. mirabell palace and gardens, 10. visit the franciscan church, 11. mozart's birthplace, 12. salzburg's festival theaters, 13. neugebäude & the salzburg carillon, 14. st. sebastian's church and cemetery, 15. see the old town hall, 16. climb to the salzburg catacombs, 17. ride the cable car to the top of the untersberg, 18. take a drive to hallein and the celtic museum, where to stay in salzburg for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to salzburg, salzburg, austria - climate chart, more must-see destinations near salzburg.

From University Square (Universitätsplatz), a number of wonderful passageways known as "Durchhäuser" weave northward to Getreidegasse . This busy pedestrian area has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is lined with quaint old merchant homes dating from the 15th to the 18th centuries.

Highlights of a walking tour of this Old Town area are its many original wrought-iron shop and inn signs, along with its many quiet old courtyards. And it's a big area to cover, encompassing some 580 acres in the heart of Salzburg, all of it just begging to be explored.

The area is also home to numerous art galleries, boutique shops, as well as jewelry and craft workshops. There are also plenty of cafés and restaurants, many with street-front patios that make for pleasant spots to kick back and do some people watching.

At the eastern end of Getreidegasse lies the Kranzlmarkt. Here, you'll find the old Town Hall (Rathaus) surrounded by even more old medieval houses, some as tall as five stories. In the Old Market (Alter Markt) stands the 13th-century Court Pharmacy (Hofapotheke), while in the middle of the square is the 17th-century St. Florian's Fountain. This latter attractive landmark is known for its unique octagonal basin and an even older spiral grille from 1583.

Other Old Town sightseeing opportunities include the Judengasse with its narrow, twisting lanes, and the Chiemseehof . Built in 1305, the latter was the residence of the Prince Bishops of Chiemsee until 1806. It's worth seeing for its arcaded courtyard decorated with coats of arms.

Salzburg is dominated by the picturesque Fortress Hohensalzburg (Festung Hohensalzburg), a stunning historic fortress that dominates the city skyline. Situated on the southeastern summit of the Mönchsberg, the original castle was built in 1077, and much of what's seen today dates from the early 1500s.

You can reach the castle by a pleasant 20-minute walk from the Old Town center or via a funicular railway from Festungsgasse. The approach to the fortress passes through a number of impressive arched defensive gateways under the 17th-century Fire Bastion to the Reisszug, a unique hoist dating from 1504 once used to haul supplies. It then continues through the Horse Gate into the Haupthof, or outer ward, with its ancient lime tree and a cistern from 1539.

Other highlights include the courtyard, with its tiny Church of St. George (Georgskirche) from 1502, and the famous Salzburg Bull (Salzburger Stier). This historic organ dating from 1502 still plays daily and seems to echo the carillon in the Neugebäude.

Interior highlights include the sumptuous Princes' Apartments, with their Late Gothic décor and fine painted wainscoting; the Golden Room (Goldene Stube), with its marble doorways; and the Golden Hall, with gold bosses on the blue coffered ceiling and red marble columns.

Also worth seeing are the Fortress Museum , with weapons and torture devices, and the Rainer Regiment Museum containing artifacts from the old Salzburg household regiment. English language guided tours of the fortress are available and include options geared toward families and children.

Address: Mönchsberg 34, 5020 Salzburg, Austria

Official site: www.salzburg-burgen.at/en/hohensalzburg-castle/

On the western side of Salzburg's Kapitelplatz stands the Benedictine Abbey of St. Peter (Erzabtei St. Peter). Founded by St. Rupert in 690 CE, this impressive building complex served as the residence of the Archbishops until 1110.

While the present buildings date mainly from the 17th and 18th centuries, they remain an impressive testament to the order's architectural skills. The best example of this can be seen in the building's tall onion-shaped tower, one of the first of its kind in Europe.

Highlights include St. Peter's Churchyard (Friedhof St. Peter), an impressive burial ground surrounded on three sides by arcades and family tombs from the 17th century. To the south, it backs onto the sheer rock face of the Mönchsberg, where you'll find Early Christian catacombs and St. Maximus' Chapel, hewn from the solid rock.

A passage leads from the churchyard into the outer courtyard graced by St. Peter's Fountain (Petrusbrunnen) built in 1673. Also of note here is the Haydn memorial depicting the life and work of Johann Michael Haydn, brother of famed composer Joseph Haydn.

Another important Salzburg landmark is Nonnberg Abbey , founded in 714 CE. The abbey is also the site of what is reputedly Europe's oldest restaurant, St. Peter Stiftskulinarium, which was founded prior to 803 CE.

Address: Sankt-Peter-Bezirk 1, 5020 Salzburg, Austria

One of Salzburg's oldest and most attractive churches, St. Peter's Church (Stiftskirche St. Peter) has undergone many transformations over the years. Completed in 1143, it was added to and altered in 1625, and decorated in Rococo style between 1757 and 1783, when its distinctive helm tower was added. The church is also known as the "Abbey Church" for its location within the St. Peter's Abbey complex.

Inside the porch under the tower is the Romanesque west doorway dating from 1240. In the interior, the plan of the Romanesque basilica can still be detected, along with monuments including the rock-hewn tomb of St. Rupert with an epitaph from 1444.

Other notable monuments are those dedicated to Mozart's sister Marianne (Nannerl), who died in 1829, and to JM Haydn, brother of Joseph. Other highlights are the painted altarpieces on the 16 marble altars and the Lady Chapel (Marienkapelle) from 1319, which contains a stone figure of the Virgin, along with Early Gothic frescoes and later frescoes from 1755.

A prominent building thanks to its twin 79-meter tall towers, Salzburg Cathedral (Salzburger Dom) was completed in 1657 and is famous for its Italian style and its role as the location of Mozart's baptism. The building's west front, facing the Domplatz , has four colossal marble statues, the outer ones representing St. Rupert and Virgil, patron saints of the province. The inner ones depict Peter and Paul.

Notable features include its three massive bronze doors with their symbols of Faith, Love, and Hope; the high altar with its Resurrection painted in 1628; and the superb frescoes in the vaulting. The burial vaults and artifacts in the crypt are also worth seeing.

Be sure to visit the Cathedral Museum . This important cultural attraction features a variety of collections of liturgical objects and objets d'art from the Salzburg archdiocese. These include the 8th-century Carolingian Cross of St. Rupert, Gothic statues and paintings, and items from the Cathedral Treasury.

Also, check the cathedral's website in advance of your visit for details of upcoming concerts and recitals.

Address: Domplatz 1a, 5020 Salzburg, Austria

At the very heart of Salzburg's Old Town (Altstadt) on the left bank of the Salzach is the Residenzplatz. One of the city's largest squares, it's the best place from which to begin exploring the many tourist attractions and things to do that this beautiful city has to offer.

The focal point of the Residenzplatz is the stunning Residenzbrunnen . This masterpiece of marble was made by an Italian sculptor in 1661 and is the largest and finest Baroque fountain this side of the Alps. Standing 15 meters high with splendid figures of bold horses, along with the god Atlas bearing dishes, it also impresses with its dolphins. Crowning the whole display is a Triton with a conch shell.

From here, it's easy to spend time relaxing in the terraced cafés and boutique shops lining the adjoining streets. You can also jump right in and visit key attractions such as Salzburg Cathedral and the Residenz , the former palace of the city's Prince Bishops.

The square is also frequently used for concerts and celebrations such as public New Year's Eve parties and the excellent Salzburg Christmas Market.

Address: Residenzplatz, 5020 Salzburg, Austria

Dominating the western side of Salzburg's Residenzplatz is the Residenz, the former palace of the city's once powerful Prince Bishops. Built between 1596 and 1619, this huge palace is laid out around three courtyards, with a large marble gateway added in 1710.

Its spectacular State Apartments are lavishly decorated in Late Baroque and Early Neoclassical style and with exquisite wall and ceiling paintings, rich stucco ornaments, and handsome fireplaces. Of particular note are the Knights' Hall (Rittersaal), the Conference Hall (Konferenzsaal), and the splendid Audience Hall (Audienzsaal) containing Flemish tapestries from the 1600s and fine Parisian furniture.

Other highlights include the White Hall (Weisse Saal), with its superb stucco ornaments in Louis XVI style from 1776; the Function Room (Gesellschaftszimmer), with 18th-century silk carpets; and the Imperial Hall (Kaisersaal), with its portraits of Holy Roman Emperors and Kings of the Habsburg dynasty.

The Residenzgalerie , an art gallery established in 1923, displays works of European painters from the 16th to 19th centuries. The collection includes paintings by Rembrandt, Rubens, and Brueghel.

Address: Residenzplatz 1, 5020 Salzburg, Austria

Official site: https://www.domquartier.at/en/residenz/

Markus Sittikus, Prince-Archbishop of Salzburg, commissioned this pleasure palace in 1613 as a place to relax and entertain. Never intended as a residence, Hellbrunn Palace (Schloss Hellbrunn) is nonetheless quite grand, and a tour gives you an inside look into the world of these immensely wealthy and powerful rulers of both church and state.

Sittikus conceived of unusual entertainments for his guests. These include a garden of trick water features and fountains, where an innocent looking statue of pavement may suddenly turn into a shower, or what appear to be benches around a table suddenly begin to spout water all over guests. The tour is lighthearted and fun, especially for children and those who don't mind getting a bit wet (it's a good idea to keep your camera and phone covered).

Apart from the trick fountains and beautiful flower gardens, the park is interesting as the site of the gazebo and grand alley of trees used in filming The Sound of Music . In December, the gardens are home to a lovely Christmas Market; entrance to a nearby folk museum is included in the admission ticket.

Address: Fürstenweg 37, Hellbrunn, Salzburg, Austria

Official site: www.hellbrunn.at/en/

Another garden used in the filming of The Sound of Music is at Salzburg's lovely Mirabell Palace (Schloss Mirabell). This excellent example of Baroque landscape design was laid out in 1690 with numerous terraces, marble statues, and fountains.

The palace itself was remodeled in Baroque style between 1721-27 before being restored in the simpler Neoclassical style after a fire in 1818. Highlights of a visit include the spectacular Grand Staircase, built in the 18th-century, with a number of statues by Georg Raphael Donner and his pupils.

Other interesting features are the Marble Hall, which is still used for concerts and functions, and the Schloss Mirabell Baroque Museum . Housed in the Gardener's Building (the Gärtnergebäude), the museum is part of the estate's Orangery, and exhibits European art of the 17th and 18th centuries.

Also of note is the former 18th-century aviary, now used for exhibitions. Of interest, too, is the small open-air theater located at the southwestern corner of the gardens.

Address: Mirabellplatz 4, Salzburg, Austria

To the north of St. Peter's Church stands the Franciscan Church (Franziskanerkirche), the town's parish church until 1635. Notable features of the exterior are the high roof of the choir, and the tower on the south side from 1498.

Interior features of note include the dark 13th-century Romanesque nave, which contrasts with the high, bright 15th-century Gothic choir. In front of a ring of Baroque chapels dating from 1606 stands the high altar, added in 1709 and notable for its late 15th-century carved Madonna.

In the central chapel behind the altar is a winged marble altar from 1561 from the old cathedral. Opposite the church is the still-operating Franciscan Friary. Visitors are welcome to attend mass here.

Address: Franziskanergasse 5, 5020 Salzburg, Austria

The house where Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was born on January 27th, 1756, is one of the best places to visit in Salzburg if you're a fan of classical music. Highlights include the rooms once occupied by the Mozart family, and a museum displaying numerous interesting mementos, including the young Mozart's violin, portraits, and original scores of his compositions.

Engaging exhibits introduce his family members and their life and explore his operatic works, with costumes, set designs, and models and excerpts from his operas. One room is furnished as it would have been in his time. English language guided tours can be arranged.

Address: Getreidegasse 9, Salzburg, Austria

Official site: https://mozarteum.at/en/museums/mozarts-birthplace/

Salzburg has long been famous for its music festivals, as shown by the city's many historic theaters and concert halls. Collectively known as the Festival Theaters (Festspielhäuser), these buildings consist of the large Festspielhau ; the smaller Haus für Mozart , between which is a foyer with fine frescoes; and the Karl-Böhm Hall , used for exhibitions and receptions.

It's in this building, decorated by superb 17th-century frescoes, that the famous Salzburg Festival has been held since 1925. This popular multi-week-long summer event showcases the best of European music and drama.

Other major Salzburg festivals include Mozart Week , a winter event focusing on the works of the great Austrian composer; and Salzburg Cultural Days , an annual two-week festival in October that includes symphonic and chamber concerts and opera performances.

For a completely different theatrical experience, visit the Salzburg Marionette Theater . Eestablished in 1913, it's one of the oldest puppet theaters in the world.

Address: Hofstallgasse 1, A-5010 Salzburg, Austria

Official site: www.salzburgerfestspiele.at/summer

Opposite the Salzburg Residenz is the New Building (Neugebäude), erected in 1602 as the Archbishop's guesthouse and enlarged in 1670. Now home to provincial government offices and the Salzburg Museum , the building is famous for its carillon, the famous Glockenspiel.

Built in 1702, it contains 35 bells that play tunes from Mozart's vast repertoire three times per day (7am, 11am, and 6pm). Guided tours of the tower offering a unique view of the workings of this impressive mechanism are available.

A highlight of the experience is hearing the famous Salzburg Bull, the organ in neighboring Hohensalzburg palace, respond to the carillon with a chorale. Also, be sure to visit the lovely 18th-century St. Michael's Church (Michaelskirche) on the north side of the Residenzplatz at the corner of Mozartplatz with its Mozart Monument from 1842.

Address: Mozartpl. 1, 5020 Salzburg, Austria

A highlight of Salzburg's more modern district on the right bank of the Salzach is St. Sebastian's Church (Sebastianskirche). Built in 1512 and completely remodeled in Rococo style in 1753, the church features a flight of steps leading to St. Sebastian Cemetery (Friedhof).

Established in 1595, in the middle of the cemetery, stands St. Gabriel's Chapel (Gabrielskapelle), with its ornate ceramic decoration, completed in 1603 as a mausoleum for Archbishop Wolf Dietrich.

On the path to the chapel lie the graves of Mozart's father, Leopold, and his widow, Konstanze. To the west of the church is a passage leading to the Loreto Convent (Loretokloster) and Paris-Lodron-Strasse.

Address: Linzer Gasse 41, 5020 Salzburg, Austria

With its Rococo facade and iconic tower, the Old Town Hall makes for one of the most attractive sites in Salzburg. It served important roles throughout history: sounding the bell when curfew was near, keeping time for the public, and as a watchtower.

Today, its purpose is mainly to share local culture with tourists and provide a space for bureaucratic offices. Check out rotating exhibitions of works from Salzburg artists in the City Gallery , located on the first floor. While the second floor is primarily used for city council meetings, it also displays Franz Kulstrunk's famous painting The Town of Salzburg in 1916 , on view for the public.

Address: Kranzlmarkt 1, 5020 Salzburg, Austria

Just past St. Sebastian's Church and Cemetery are catacombs carved into the face of the Mönchsberg rock. The attraction, estimated to be about 1,000 years old, served dual purposes as both a hermitage and a burial site. You may recognize it from The Sound of Music as the place where the Trapp family sought refuge before fleeing to Switzerland.

To reach the two levels of the catacombs open to the public, you'll need to climb a set of old, steep stone steps (grippy shoes are a must!). The first level contains the "Gertrauden Chapel," while the upper part houses the "Maximus Chapel," which is thought to be even older. You can also see an incredible view of Salzburg from the windows and balcony.

The Untersberg, a popular recreation area with a rugged peak, draws outdoors lovers from around the world. You can reach the top by taking a ride on the Untersbergbahn (cable car), located about 10 kilometers south of the city and easily reached by bus. The 8.5-minute ride in one of the two gondola-like cars is a delight, offering dazzling views of Salzburg, the Rositten Valley, and the entire Berchtesgaden region.

The best vistas, however, can be found when the cable car drops you off near the Geiereck 1,805-meter-tall Geiereck summit and you're looking down on the fluffy white clouds and the snowcapped Alps. It's no surprise that many couples get engaged in this beautiful spot.

Spend an hour or two exploring the stunning high Alpine terrain, and when you're ready to refuel, simply pull up a seat at the mountaintop café for coffee and strudel.

Address: Dr.-Friedrich-Oedl-Weg 2, 5083, Austria

Official site: https://www.untersbergbahn.at/

The old Celtic town of Hallein on the River Salzach, a 10-minute-drive from Salzburg city center, is one of the several interesting places to visit near Salzburg. The town is especially popular for its picturesque narrow streets, gateways, and statues, as well as the historic homes built in typical Salzach style.

Hallein is the birthplace of organist Franz Xaver Gruber, composer of Silent Night. It's also where you'll find the Celtic Museum (Keltenmuseum Hallein), one of the largest and most complete museums of Celtic art and history in all Europe. Set in a former 17th-century orphanage, this reconstructed Celtic farmstead includes buildings and tools used by Celt settlers, as well as an ancient burial chamber.

Other highlights include displays of finds from the Hallstatt and La Tène (Iron Age) periods from 800-15 BC. There are also exhibits portraying local customs and the history of town guilds.

Address: Pflegerplatz 5, Hallein, Austria

Perfect for touring on foot, the picturesque streets of Salzburg's old town, almost directly under the walls of the formidable Hohensalzburg fortress, contain the cathedral; St. Peter's Abbey; and the palace, with its state apartments and museums. The funicular to the fortress is nearby, and just across the river is Mirabell Palace and gardens. Here are some highly rated hotels close to these Salzburg attractions:

Luxury Hotels :

• Spacious rooms at Hotel Goldgasse offer historic charm and modern facilities in the center of the pedestrianized old town.
• Equally well-located, within steps of attractions, is the elegant Hotel Goldener Hirsch , a Luxury Collection Hotel.
• Sister hotel to the landmark Hotel Sacher Vienna, the lavishly furnished Hotel Sacher Salzburg overlooks the river, and is just a short walk from the old town and from Mirabell Palace.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• Across the river, a block from the bridge leading directly into the center of the old town, Stadtkrug Hotel is also close to the Mirabell.
• Boutique Hotel Am Dom is in a restored historic building in the center of the pedestrianized old town.
• If old town charm is not important, IMLAUER HOTEL PITTER Salzburg is located near the train station, behind Mirabell Palace, and a 15-minute walk from the main attractions.

Budget Hotels:

• Star Inn Hotel Salzburg Zentrum has pleasant, plain rooms in a residential neighborhood on the other side of the Hohensalzburg fortress, a 10-minute walk to the old town through a pedestrian tunnel.
• The nearby family-run Haus Wartenberg has the character and charm of a traditional building with modern facilities and larger rooms that are ideal for families.
• Close to the rail and bus station, Pension Adlerhof has limited free parking and free continental breakfast, but you'll have a 30-minute walk or a bus ride to the Old Town.
• Sound of Music Tour : If you're a fan of The Sound of Music, you can reminisce about your favorite scenes at some of the movie's best-known locations and sing along to the soundtrack on The Original Sound of Music Tour in Salzburg . But you don't have to be a fan of the movie to appreciate the history and beauty of Salzburg's top attractions and architectural gems, which are also included on this tour. Top it off with a visit to the beautiful Lake District and the quaint town of Mondsee, where the movie's wedding took place.
• Eagle's Nest Tour : To soak up some fascinating history and see the spectacular scenery of the Bavarian Alps at the same time, sign up for the Eagle's Nest in Berchtesgaden Tour from Salzburg . On this half-day guided tour, you'll see Hellbrunn Castle and the Königsee River Valley before heading up to the Eagle's Nest, Hitler's former mountain retreat in Bavaria, where you can learn about its history and admire the views. Before heading home, you'll have a chance to explore the quaint German mountain town of Berchtesgaden.
• Mountains and Mining Tour : Another tour that blends history with striking scenery is the Bavarian Mountains and Salt-Mines Tour . After a scenic drive along the King's Lake River, this half-day guided tour takes you deep into an underground salt mine, where you can learn about its 450-year old history, take a tour on a mini-train, and cruise around a subterranean salt lake. This tour also ends with a stroll around Berchtesgaden before you head home.

Salzburg sits close to the border between Austria and Germany , almost equidistant from Munich and Innsbruck . Passau, in northern Bavaria , is about the same distance to the north, and farther east on the Danube is Linz . Just across the border to the west, the German town of Berchtesgaden and the idyllic Königsee are easy day trips from Salzburg . To the southeast is the beautiful town of Hallstatt and the Hallstätter Sea, part of the Dachstein/Salzkammergut Alpine UNESCO World Heritage Site. About halfway between Salzburg and Innsbruck is the Austrian ski resort of Kitzbuhel .

More on Austria

21 of the Best Things to Do in Salzburg, Austria

Written By: Asher X Travel

Updated On: January 23, 2024

Whether you’re a music aficionado, a museum devotee, or a hiking enthusiast, Austria’s fourth-largest city, Salzburg offers something to captivate every traveler. There are so many things to do in Salzburg. This quaint, elegant, and picturesque city is known for being the birthplace of composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, as well as the primary filming location for the classic film, The Sound of Music. So are you ready to explore Salzburg? Let’s Go!

Table of Contents

Top Things to Do in Salzburg

With attractions such as the world-class Salzburg Old Town, The Golden Hall of Fortress Hohensalzburg, and iconic Mirabell Palace and Gardens, there are truly so many things to do when visiting Salzburg – so let’s get exploring.

Planning Your Trip To Salzburg Right Now?

Below are some of the top tours in Salzburg. Don’t forget to plan ahead when  visiting Salzburg!

Top Activities and Tours in Salzburg:

• Sound of Music Tour – Most Popular in Salzburg
• Half Day to Hallstatt – Best Day Trip
• Amphibious Audio Guided Tour – Likely to Sell Out
• Mozart Concert at Mirabell Palace – Highly Rated

1. Salzburger Altstadt (Old Town Salzburg)

Salzburg’s Old Town, also known as Salzburger Altstadt, is easily one of Europe’s most impressive old towns. Located on the left bank of the Salzach River , visitors can get lost for hours marveling at Salzburg’s beautifully preserved medieval and baroque architecture, as well as its narrow winding streets, vibrant atmosphere, and pastel-colored buildings.

With highlights such as Getreidegasse, Mozart’s Birthplace, Salzburg Cathedral, and Hohensalzburg Fortress, Salzburger Altstadt is filled to the brim with architectural treasures, charming boutiques, and important religious sights.

If you’ve also come to Austria to dabble in culinary delights, here’s the place to do it – as some of the country’s best cafes, restaurants, and beer gardens are located right here. In comparison to other old towns in Austria, such as Vienna, I can safely say that Salzburg’s Old Town is my favorite.

2. Mirabell Palace and Gardens

Mirabell Palace and Gardens is a striking Baroque palace complex loved by visitors for both its beauty and historic importance. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the palace was built as early as 1606 by Prince-Archbishop Wolf Dietrich von Raitenau and later expanded in the 18 th century. The Mirabell Palace currently serves as the municipal office for the Mayor and City Council of Salzburg but was originally used mostly as a pleasure palace.

Like many of Salzburg’s attractions, Mirabell Palace was designed with a few architectural styles in mind – namely, the Late Renaissance and Early Baroque styles. With eye-catching features such as its grand arched windows and use of marble as one of the palace’s primary materials, the exterior of Mirabell Palace is one of Salzburg’s impressive buildings.

Speaking of marble – inside the palace, visitors can find Marble Hall (otherwise known as Marmorsaal) – one of the Palace’s highlights. With its exquisitely gilded walls, stunning chandeliers, and tastefully decorated marble floor, the Marble Hall is regarded as one of the most beautiful halls in the world and is frequently used as a wedding hall and performance venue.

Pegasus Fountain

While strolling through Mirabell’s immaculately kept gardens, don’t forget to visit the Pegasus Fountain – an iconic symbol of Salzburg itself. The Pegasus Fountain features a statue of a mythical winged horse surrounded by the water fountain and is a popular spot for photographers. Other things to see around the Mirabell Gardens include the Rose Garden, Dwarf Garden, Hedge Theatre, and its many flowerbeds, sculptures, and enchanting pathways. You cannot visit Salzburg and not pay a visit here.

You might recognize the grounds of Mirabell Palace and Gardens if you’ve ever watched the 1965 movie, ‘The Sound of Music’. It’s here, at the grand staircase and the Pegasus Fountain, where the film’s famous ‘Do-Re-Mi’ scene was shot. Due to its appearance in the film, the Mirabell Palace and Gardens has gained international recognition as an instantaneously recognizable Hollywood location. If you are a fan of the movie then this Sound Of Music tour is right up your alley.

3. Fortress Hohensalzburg

Salzburg is a city full of breathtaking viewpoints, and Fortress Hohensalzburg is one of the best places for a truly unforgettable view. I visited around sunset time and as the sun began to set, the sky unfolded into a dreamy blend of purple, pink, and blue colors. From up there, you’ll also be able to witness Salzburg’s magical surrounding Alpine scenery, serving as the perfect background to the city’s stunning buildings.

With its origins tracing back as early as the 11 th century, history buffs will be left satisfied after visiting its extensive complex featuring chapels, dungeons, courtyards, and living quarters. Inside the Fortress, you can also explore the Fortress Museum – an opportunity to learn about the fortress in more depth by examining a range of artifacts, objects, weaponry, and historical exhibits.

Other highlights within the Fortress include the Marionette Museum, State Rooms, and Golden Chamber. Dedicate at least a few hours to explore these in detail, as they all represent an important piece of the city in Salzburg’s jigsaw puzzle of history.

Fortress Hohensalzburg, also known as Festung Hohensalzburg, is accessible by a short funicular ride or a steep hike. As a hiking enthusiast, I hiked it all the way to the top and would totally recommend it if you’re looking for a scenic workout.

4. Salzburg Cathedral

Known as Salzburger Dom by German speakers, the Salzburg Cathedral is an imposing baroque cathedral centrally located in the city’s Old Town. Because of its grand façade, rich history, and religious significance, it’s easily one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks.

Salzburg Cathedral was originally constructed back in the 8 th century as a church dedicated to Saint Virgil of Salzburg, an Irish churchman known for his religious works during that time. The cathedral’s twin towers reach a height of approximately 81 metres (265 feet), and can be seen as a prominent feature of Salzburg’s skyline.

While the cathedral’s exterior is certainly memorable, visitors would be missing out if they didn’t enter inside. Featuring soaring ceilings and ornate decorations, the interior of Salzburg Cathedral is truly awe-inspiring (Especially since the roof did suffer damage in World War II). In particular, the opulent high altar, designed by artist Santino Solari, is considered a Baroque masterpiece.

The Salzburg Cathedral also has strong ties to music history, as one of its attendees, Mozart was baptized here in 1756. In fact, some of his early works were also performed in front of the church congregation – making it one of the first venues where Mozart’s pieces were ever unveiled. Salzburg Cathedral continues to serve as an active place of music and worship today as regular masses and religious ceremonies frequently take place here.

If you’re interested in learning more about the history of this fascinating cathedral, you can also visit the Cathedral Museum, which showcases a collection of religious art, historical artifacts, including objets d’art from the Salzburg archdiocese and liturgical items related to the Cathedral.

5. St Peter’s Abbey

Another religious building worth visiting, St Peter’s Abbey (also known as Stift St. Peter) differs from Salzburg Cathedral as it’s an ancient monastery that’s one of the oldest monastic establishments in the German-speaking world. In fact, St Peter’s Abbey’s origins trace back to the early 7 th century when it was established by Saint Rupert, the patron saint of Salzburg.

Although it looks relatively unassuming from the outside, St Peter’s Abbey is full of hidden treasures inside. A walk through the abbey’s complex would take you through to impressive structures such as the Abbey Church, Cemetery, Library and Long Gallery.

I found St Peter’s Cemetery and Catacombs to be especially interesting to visit. Not only was it a peaceful place to generally experience and stroll through, but it’s here that you can also find the final resting place for some of Salzburg’s most distinguished individuals – such as Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s sister, Nannerl Mozart. 

St Peter’s Library is also well worth a visit as it houses some of Salzburg’s most important texts, such as medieval manuscripts, significant religious books, and other historic documents that have lasted multiple centuries. At various points of the year, St Peter’s Abbey also hosts artistic performances and other classical concerts.

6. DomQuartier Salzburg (UNESCO World Heritage site)

If you love museums, then the DomQuartier Salzburg should be one of the top things on your list of things to do in Salzburg. A series of interconnected buildings (including the Salzburg Cathedral), DomQuartier is also where you’ll find the Residenz, the former residence of the Prince-Archbishops of Salzburg.

As you tour the residences, take note of the intricate stucco work, beautiful tapestries, and immaculate furnishings. It’s here that visitors can also explore an extensive collection of European paintings from the Middle Ages right up to the 19 th century. For example, in the Residenz Gallery, art lovers will get the opportunity to examine artworks from names such as Rembrandt, Rubens, and Veronese, as well as local Salzburg artists.

In the Long Gallery, you’ll be able to find a collection of valuable sculptures and artifacts. A short walk through the terrace will lead you to panoramic views of Salzburg’s Old Town. While the elevation here isn’t quite as high as you’ll find in Fortress Hohensalzburg, this view offers a different perspective of Salzburg that you’ll be hard-pressed to find anywhere else in the city.

DomQuartier was one of the most extensive museums I explored in all of Austria, and I found that it was extremely well-equipped to inform visitors of all languages through its use of audio guides, informative panels with different translations and helpful, knowledgeable staff.

7. Franziskanerkirche

Salzburg has no shortage of intricate religious buildings, and Francizkanerkirche, or the ‘Franciscan Church’, is yet another one. Built in the 8 th century, Franciscan Church displays a blend of architectural styles, including Romanesque, Gothic and Baroque – a feature that it shares in common with other Salzburg icons such as the St Peter’s Abbey. This makes the church quite a unique one, as visitors will be able to notice the slight differences by examining features such as the stone carvings, soaring ceilings, graceful arches, stained glass windows and altars. 

The Franciscan Church was founded by St Maxiumus and his fellow monks and over the years has gone through major restoration and transformation, particularly between the 14 th and 15 th centuries.

The Franciscan Monastery (Franziskanerkloster) can be found right next to the church. As an active monastery, the Franziskanerkloster currently houses friars and continues to be a place of contemplation and study. A crypt also lies beneath the church, where the remains of noble families and distinguished individuals from Salzburg’s history are kept.

8. Mozart’s Birthplace

Known as ‘Mozarts Geburtshaus’ by locals, Mozart’s Birthplace is another must-do in Salzburg simply because of its historical significance. The birthplace of one of the world’s greatest composers and contributors in the history of music, this quaint yellow townhouse has since been transformed into an informative museum where visitors can explore Mozart’s personal belongings, musical instruments, family portraits, and other significant items across all three floors.

Mozart’s family townhouse was built in the 12 th century but was purchased by Mozart’s father, Leopold, much later in 1747. You can find the house on Geitreidegasse, a popular street that’s also on this list of 21 Things to do in Salzburg,

At Mozart’s Birthplace, you can even explore the very room where Mozart was born on 27 January 1756. The museum is well-aided by audio guides, informative displays, and other presentations which offer an even greater insight into Mozart’s stories life and musical development. I spent about an hour here learning about Mozart’s life – definitely a worthwhile stop.

Visitors are also able to buy a souvenir of their visit in the small gift shop, located within the townhouse. At the gift shop, you’ll be able to find a wide range of Mozart-related items, such as music recordings, books, and replicas of Mozart’s musical instruments.

9. Linzergasse

As one of Salzburg’s main pedestrian-only streets, Linzergasse is known for being a shopping haven amongst Salzburg’s historic buildings and picturesque architecture. You’ll find some of the city’s best boutiques, art galleries and speciality stores as you stroll down this famous street.

Along Linzergasse, visitors will also have the choice to dine at some of Salzburg’s most well-known cafés and restaurants. These include Café-Konditorei Fürst, Café Bazar and Triangel Restaurant. In particular, Café-Konditorei Fürst is known for inventing the original ‘Mozartkugel’, a chocolate covered confection consisting of pistachio, marzipan and nougat. It’s alternatively known as the ‘Mozart-Bonbon’, and is yep – you guessed it – dedicated to Mozart and his contributions to Salzburg.

It’s important to note than Linzergasse is more than just a street for shopping. It also served as a historically important trading route between Salzburg and the city of Linz. In fact, an exploration of Linzergasse’s surrounds may also lead you to encounter other Salzburg landmarks such as St Sebastian’s Church and Mozart’s Residence (Mozart-Wohnhaus). 

10. Old City Hall

Salzburg’s Old City Hall (‘Altes Rathaus’ in German) is an icon of Salzburg that you definitely can’t miss when exploring the Old Town. Constructed in the 14 th century, the Old City Hall is adorned with beautiful ornate windows and intricate decorations, as well as a prominent clock tower. It’s also another great example of both the Gothic and Renaissance architectural styles, a common theme among important buildings in the city.

The Old City Hall is traditionally where important business meetings and other administrative matters are handled, and it currently serves as the seat of the Salzburg City Council. It’s here that important historical assemblies, public announcements, proclamations, dignitary visits and historical celebrations have taken place (and continue to take place).

One of the Old City Hall’s highlights is the Carillon, a musical instrument comprising of a series of bells played by a keyboard mechanism. This striking feature can be found in the Old City Hall tower, specifically on the front façade facing the Mozartplatz. The Carillion is popular with visitors due to its collection of large bronze bells, each a different size and tuned to a specific pitch.

11. Mozartplatz

Salzburg boasts a lot of famous city squares, but Mozartplatz is my favorite because it features a grand bronze statue of Mozart at the center of the square. It’s transformed into somewhat of a pilgrimage site for music lovers and is an important reminder of just how valued Mozart and music are to the city.

The bronze statue was created by Austrian sculptor Ludwig Schwanthaler in 1842, and although it is the main attraction in Mozartplatz, there is still plenty to see and do here. Throughout the year, the square hosts open-air concerts, cultural festivals, and seasonal markets, attracting locals and tourists who visit to enjoy the charming atmosphere.

12. Residenzbrunnen and Residenzplatz

Yet another lively square in Salzburg worth visiting, the Residenzplatz is where visitors can find the Residenzbrunnen, also known as the Residenz Fountain. This fountain was designed by Italian sculptor Tommaso di Garone in 1661 and is today considered one of the finest baroque fountains in the country.

Visually striking the moment you see it, the Residenzbrunnen displays a stunning central marble column adorned with statues and figures that represent various mythological figures. At the top of the column, you’ll find a statue of a male figure holding a gold basin as water cascades down into the base of the fountain, creating an impressive show for onlookers. 

If you’re visiting close to Christmas time, the Residenzplatz is an excellent place to check out the famous Christmas markets in Austria. Also known as the ‘Christkindlmarkt’, the markets stretch out from the Residenzplatz through to the Cathedral Square (Domplatz) and other nearby squares. Also, be sure not to miss the Salzburg Christmas Museum if you love Christmas.

13. Glockenspiel

Founded on the façade of the New Residence building, which also houses the Salzburg Museum in Mozartplatz, the Glockenspiel is a unique musical instrument that has delighted visitors for centuries. Catch a scheduled performance and you’ll be treated to a presentation of familiar tunes and animated figurines.

More than just an entertaining show, watching the Glockenspiel is also a fantastic opportunity to learn more about Salzburg’s past. This is because the animated figurines depict scenes from Salzburg’s history and folklore, and they sometimes even include notable figures such as Mozart.

The Glockenspiel performs multiple times a day usually at the top of the hour – although you might have to hang around a few minutes, as when I visited, it played about 5 minutes later than it was expected to.

14. Salzach River

The Salzach River is a jade-colored waterway flowing through Salzburg that can be seen from various points in the city, including the Hohensalzburg Fortress and Winkler Terrace. Aside from being a pretty river to photograph, it serves as a natural border between Salzburg’s Old Town and the more modern parts of the city.

About 225km (140 miles) long, the Salzach River originates from the Austrian Alps, where it flows through picturesque valleys and towns before reaching the city of Salzburg. One of the best ways to experience the Salzach River is to embark on a riverboat cruise. These cruises typically take you through green spaces, recreational areas, and bridges and offer a unique perspective of Salzburg’s Old Town.

A popular way to experience the beauty of the Salzach River is to walk along Salzach Promenade. Also referred to as ‘Salzachufer’, the promenade is a scenic pedestrian pathway that runs along the perimeter of the river. Stretching several kilometres, visitors can enjoy the promenade’s pretty trees, decorated benchworks and greenery while taking in the riverside atmosphere.

15. Getreidegasse

Wander down the Getreidegasse, one of Salzburg’s most visited streets, and you’ll feel like you stepped back in time. Celebrated for its charming townhouses, elegant boutiques and enchanting cafes, a stroll through Getreidegasse’s cobbled streets gives you a good feel of what Salzburg is all about – architectural treasures and a whimsical atmosphere.

It’s at Getreidegasse where you’ll also find a collection of street performers, musicians and artists. Seeing that Salzburg is one of the world’s most famous musical cities, it should be no surprise that these street performers here are sometimes at a world-class level.

Getreidegasse is also home to other worthwhile Salzburg attractions such as Mozart’s Birthplace (previously mentioned on this list), the historic Goldener Hirsch Hotel, and The Old Pharmacy. You can also find unique house signs and facades along the street, making it a popular photography location too.

16. Café Tomaselli

Café Tomaselli is not just a pretty café in the heart of Salzburg – it’s practically an institution and an icon in its own right. This quaint café has been around for some 150 years and is one of the oldest establishments that still exist in the city.

Originating in 1705, Café Tomaselli has been delighting visitors for centuries through its delicious pasties, renowned coffee and peaceful ambiance. Designed with an elegant, old-world charm in mind, guests are immediately transported to an era gone by as they sit down and enjoy the Café’s famous food.

This is a great spot to people-watch, read the newspaper and just hang out. It’s been said that Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart himself spent a lot of time here working on his music. I would recommend ordering the café’s delicious cakes, such as its Esterhazy cake and apple strudel, along with a cup of wonderful Austrian coffee.

Just opposite Café Tomaselli, you can also find Kiosk Tomaselli, an extension of the café. With its leafy trees and colourful umbrella shades, dining at Kiosk Tomaselli is perfectly suited for the summer.

17. Winkler Terrace/M32 Café

Formerly known as Winkler Terrace, this panoramic viewpoint is now known as the M32 Café. One of the most trendy café and rooftop bars in Salzburg, the M32 Café can be found on the top floor of the Museum der Moderne Salzburg and is truly a must-see for any visitor in Salzburg.

Although the views from Hohensalzburg Fortress are equally as amazing, the main point of difference in comparison to the view at M32 Café is that you can actually see the grandeur of the fortress from the latter viewpoint.

Hence, this is possibly the most scenic viewpoint in all of Salzburg as from this vantage point, you’ll be able to see Salzburg’s Old Town in its entirety. I’ll admit that the food and drinks at M32 Café are a little expensive, but given the magnificent panorama in front of you, it’s still totally worth it to spend a few hours here. My recommendations at M32 Café include their apple strudel, sachertorte and their range of cheesecakes. The café offers both indoor and outdoor seating areas, making it a great choice no matter the season.

Once you’re done taking in the views, spend some time exploring the Museum der Moderne Salzburg on the lower floors. This renowned museum features contemporary artworks from the 20 th and 21 st centuries – showcasing a diverse range of sculptures, installations, photographs, and paintings from both Austrian and international artists. The Museum der Moderne Salzburg is quite unique in the sense that it features modern work, in contrast to other nearby Salzburg museums which feature more historical works.

18. Love Lock Footbridge/Makartsteg

The Makartsteg, also known as the Love Lock Footbridge, is a pedestrian bridge that serves as a sort of entry point into Salzburg’s Old Town. Named after the celebrated Austrian painter Hans Makart, the bridge serves as one of the best ways to see the Salzach River.

Because of its beautiful surroundings that include both Salzburg’s charming buildings and the gorgeous Salzach River, there is an undeniable romantic atmosphere as you cross the bridge. Over the years, couples started to attach colorful padlocks onto the railings of the bridge as a symbol of their everlasting love.

These ‘love locks’ have become so popular that the railings of the bridge are now completely covered in colorful locks, serving as a heart-warming reminder of Salzburg’s romantic qualities.

19. Collegiate Church

The Collegiate Church has many different names so it can be a little tricky to find if you’re just inputting one name into your navigation app. Just for reference, it’s also referred to as the ‘Kollegienirche’ or ‘Holy Trinity Church’ (try all of them if one of the names doesn’t work). This Baroque church was first constructed in 1694 and wasn’t finished until 1707. Characterized by its curved forms, specific ornamentation, and use of lighter colors, the Collegiate Church is one of the few examples in Salzburg of architecture that is distinctively Baroque – as opposed to other churches in Salzburg, which were built with a blend of architectural styles in mind).

One of the differences between the Collegiate Church and other churches such as Salzburg Cathedral or the Franciscan Church is its use of marble columns and specific types of ceiling frescoes. The ceilings were painted by renowned artist Johann Michael Rottmayr and depict very detailed visuals relating to the Holy Trinity.

Additionally, the Collegiate Church is especially known for its great acoustics for choral singing and classical music, making it a popular venue for musical performances and concerts in Salzburg.

20. Hallstatt

One of the most popular day trip spots from Salzburg, the charming lakeside town of Hallstatt is only 75 kilometres, or 46 miles, from the city. Hallstatt can be reached after a 1.5 hour car ride, and is an unmissable destination if you’re staying in Salzburg for more than a few days.

Undoubtedly in the top echelon of things to do in all of Austria, Hallstatt has garnered mass popularity across social media platforms over the years for its ridiculously picturesque town, Alpine scenery, enchanting lake and range of activities on offer. In fact, you may have already seen images of Hallstatt already on wallpapers, screensavers or framed print photos – that’s how beautiful it really is.

When in Hallstatt, don’t miss out on doing the Hallstatt Skywalk – a scenic viewpoint offering 360-degree vistas of Hallstatt’s surroundings. Another must-do attraction is the Hallstatt Salt Mine. The town has historically been an important hub for salt trading, and the Salt Mines provide a great opportunity for visitors to explore its underground tunnels, wooden slides and learn more about the salt extraction process.

For a slightly more macabre – but extremely interesting experience – visit the Hallstatt Bone House (Beinhaus), where you can find a collection of intricately decorates bones and skulls housed in a picturesque small chapel.

Of course, it’s impossible not to take in the breathtaking sight of Hallstatt Lake from Hallstatt town. Commonly regarded as one of the prettiest lakes in the country, the lake is perfect for boating, swimming and other water activities in the summer. It’s also easy to take a tour of the lake by boat, where you’ll be able to take in the beauty of Hallstatt town from the water.

21. Saint Gilgen

Given its strategic location in Austria, Salzburg serves as a fantastic jumping point to some of Austria’s best destinations. Some of these day trip options include charming Alpine villages such as Zell am See, Wolfgangsee and Mondsee. Although all these destinations are worth a visit, my favorite was the quaint village of Saint Gilgen.

Less than a 40-minute bus ride from Salzburg, visiting Saint Gilgen is the perfect way to get properly acquainted with Austria’s one-of-a-kind alpine scenery. With Wolfgangsee Lake as its majestic centerpiece, the village of Saint Gilgen elegantly unfolds itself all the way to the towering mountains.

Its well-preserved historic village center features some of the prettiest architecture I have seen in Austria, and I spent hours just strolling through the charming traditional buildings and colorful facades.

In the summer, Saint Gilgen is another popular place to go boating or engage in other water sports activities. Because of its natural beauty and crystal-clear lake water, kayaking, paddleboarding, row boating or swimming are all recommended during this season.

How to get to Salzburg?

The easiest way to get to Salzburg is to fly to W. A. Mozart Airport, which is just 4 kilometers away from the city center. Salzburg Airport is well-connected to larger European cities such as London, Berlin , Düsseldorf, Istanbul, and Frankfurt, and you can readily find flights on popular airlines such as Lufthansa, British Airways, SAS, and Turkish Airlines.

However, given its location close to the border of Germany in Austria’s west region, Salzburg is actually most easily accessible from the German city of Munich . Munich Airport is a much busier airport than Salzburg Airport and offers many more connections to destinations not just in Europe, but around the world. From Munich, taking the train takes you less than 2 hours to get to Salzburg.

Salzburg is also well-connected by international train services from major cities such as Zurich , Budapest, Prague and Bratislava.

If you’re arriving from Austria’s capital, Vienna, there are a range of train options you can take. Trains typically take around 2.5 or 4 hours and can be purchased online beforehand on the ÖBB Website .

Final Thoughts on Salzburg

Salzburg is a uniquely beautiful city that has undoubtedly captured my heart. With its rich musical roots, elegant architecture, grandiose religious structures, and charming streets, there is truly no shortage of things to do in Salzburg.

To get a true sense of Salzburg’s beauty, I would recommend staying at least 4 days in the city. This will give you the opportunity to spend a couple of days exploring Salzburg’s treasures while also allowing enough time to venture out on some unforgettable day trips in the surrounding area.

The easiest way to get around Salzburg is by renting a car, although Austria’s excellent public transportation system should be easy enough to navigate that you’ll be able to see most of the city’s sights without a car – it just might require a bit more time and planning.

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Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Book Your Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner. We have used them for years and have found that they have the best flight deals.

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor.

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

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About Asher X Travel

Avid writer, hiking enthusiast, daydreaming lyricist and perennial traveller with chronic wanderlust. Asher is a lawyer who traded writing contracts for crafting travel guides and itineraries on his blog,  Beyond The Bay.  A full-time travel content creator that’s been featured on several award-winning travel websites, Asher’s motivation is to make travel easier for those on a busy working schedule .  When he’s not blogging, you can probably find him chilling on a tropical beach or writing a song - or both!  Connect with Asher on Instagram   / Facebook   / TikTok   / YouTube  

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1 thought on “21 of the Best Things to Do in Salzburg, Austria”

Austria is my one of the favorite place because I like spend lot of my time on there local stress and visiting unique place have you mention in your blog. This blog send me to my Austria vacation memories and I recollecting them so nice days.!!

Visit Salzburg: Top 17 Things To Do and Must-See Attractions

Things to do in salzburg : the 17 best places to visit and highlights.

You want to visit Salzburg , in Austria , and you’re looking for the best places to visit?

You’re at the right place!

The hometown of Mozart is famous for its historical center listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site , castles and many museums .

In order to help you plan your stay , I have prepared for you this guide of the 17 best places to visit in Salzburg , with all points of interest and must-see attractions.

In addition to this list of things to do and activities, I will also give you itineraries to visit Salzburg in 1, 2, or 3 days as well as my selection of the best accommodations depending on your budget.

So, what are the best things to do in Salzburg? Where to stay?

Let’s find out!

1. Hohensalzburg Fortress

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When it comes to the must-see attractions in Salzburg, Hohensalzburg Fortress unquestionably takes the top spot.

Overlooking the entire city , this fortress whose construction began in the early 11th century (and ended five centuries later) is one of Europe’s most well preserved castles.

Originally serving as protection for the entire principality and the archbishops against hostile attacks. It perfectly fulfilled its purpose since it remained untouched during its ten centuries of existence!

Nowadays, you can visit the inner part of Hohensalzburg and discover among others the Golden Hall and Golden Chamber . An absolute must-see for its magnificent Gothic wood carvings!

Oh, and if you’re looking for thrills, you can also take a look at the dungeons and torture chambers .

Two museums , the Festungsmuseum and the Rainermuseum within the Castle will also teach you about the life of the princes archbishop and Austrian army over the centuries.

You’ll also enjoy a perfect view of all of Salzburg from the fortress .

Finally, if you’re wondering what to do at night in Salzburg , you really should attend one of the many classical music concert given in the fortress. You should <a1>book your tickets by clicking directly here</a1> !

Hohensalzburg Fortress is located on top of a hill so feel free to catch the funicular from the Festungsgasse alley to get there. The view is really nice. You’ll also find a path that gets you directly to the top of the fortress… if you’re the energetic type.

If you plan on visiting Salzburg, you should get the Salzburg Card (I’ll explain it in detail further below). It includes the Funicular ride and visit to Hohensalzburg Fortress .

Save time and purchase it in advance by clicking on the green button below:

If you don’t want to get the Salzburg pass, you should still buy your entrance ticket to the fortress in advance by clicking here !

Nonnberg Abbey , another major tourist site in Salzburg is a 10-minute walk from the fortress, at the base of the hill.

The baroque-style abbey houses sumptuous 12th century frescoes and offers a stunning view of the Alps.

It is however mostly famous around the world for having inspired the hugely popular Hollywood flick “The Sound of Music” .

The film focuses on the true story of Maria, a Nonnberg convent’s novice sent to Baron Von Trapp, a wealthy widower, to look after his 7 children.

After breaking her vows, Maria would eventually marry him and become Baroness Von Trapp. If you want to know the rest of the story, you should then give a go to this classic piece of cinema.

The film brought international recognition to Salzburg and every year more than 300,000 visitors wander the city in search of the filming locations.

Besides the abbey, “The Sound of Music” was also shot at Mirabell Castle and Leopoldskron Castle .

To experience the story of the Von Trapp family during your visit to Salzburg you should definitely book a guided tour of the filming locations now .

Another must-see edifice in Salzburg is St. Peter’s Abbey.

Founded in 696, it’s one of the oldest Austrian Benedictine monasteries .

Just next to the abbey, you’ll find St. Peter’s Church . Throughout the centuries, it has undergone multiple rebuilds due to fires, resulting in a captivating fusion of Romanesque, Renaissance, and Baroque architectural styles. The overall look is extremely appealing, both inside and out.

Within the Abbey, you’ll also find “Stiftskeller St. Peter,” a remarkable restaurant featuring a stunning hall where delightful dinner concerts showcasing the musical genius of Mozart are regularly performed by artists dressed in period costumes. A truly immersive experience!

The restaurant’s menu consists of traditional recipes from the 17 th and 18 th centuries . If you are interested in experiencing an original and quality evening during your trip in Salzburg, you should book your seats by clicking the button below :

During your stay, you should also pause by the cemetery right next door, where you will find the tombstones of famous Austrian artists, scholars and celebrities , including Mozart’s sister .

Don’t forget to explore the fascinating local catacombs that date back to the classical era.

To stay on the topic of religious monuments not to be missed in Salzburg , you should also give Salzburg St. Rupert’s Cathedral a go.

It’s the most important religious edifice in the city .

The cathedral, built from the seventeenth century onwards in the Baroque style, is actually the place where Mozart was baptized .

He also volunteered there as the church’s organ player for a few years. Nowadays it holds the relics of St. Rupert and many archbishops’ graves .

With its imposing marble facade and two towers , it is also a very photogenic place to check out in Salzburg. So don’t hold back, and spend some time there during your stay in this city.

Admission is included in the Salzburg Card but if you don’t want the card, you can also book :

• A ticket for the cathedral visit + audioguide
• A guided tour of the cathedral
• Your seat for the organ concert in the cathedral at midday (concert + entrance ticket)

Another must-see place of interest in Salzburg, the DomQuartier . Located just 2 steps from the cathedral at the Residenzplatz , it’s one of Salzburg’s major cultural and tourist attractions.

The DomQuartier is a distinctly modern touristic area as it brings together several museums in various historical sites . A single admission ticket gives you access to 5 museums .

Visiting the DomQuartier allows you to discover:

• The Princes Archbishop’s Residence and its sumptuous ceremonial rooms.
• The Residence Gallery and its fine collection of European paintings.
• The terrace on the arcades with its unique viewpoint of Salzburg.
• The gallery of the organ of the Dome
• The Dom Museum
• The Cabinet of curiosities
• Saint Peter’s Museum.

The tour is extremely well organized and exceedingly interesting . It allows you to explore the historical sites and learn more about the history of Salzburg and its princes archbishop.

Allow about 2 hours for the visit. Admission is free with the Salzburg Card .

If you don’t take the card, you should still book your ticket + audio guide to visit the DomQuartier by clicking here !

You’re going to Salzburg?

You probably know it: the hardest part of planning your trip is to find an hotel offering a good value for money!

The closer you get to your travel dates, the harder it will be to get a good deal. Lots of people will be visiting Salzburg on the same dates as you , so you can be sure that the best deals are booked extremely quickly!

Hopefully, there is a pretty simple solution to this problem: do like me and book your hotel as early as possible!

So, my best advice is to take 5 minutes (now) to have a look at the list of travelers’ favorite hotels in Salzburg.

And if you see a good offer, book it!

Most hotels offer free cancellation, so it’s quick, easy, and you will avoid the the inconvenience of finding nothing but mediocre rooms at exorbitant prices.

To check the current best deals for your hotel in Salzburg, simply click on the green button below 😎:

Once you’ve booked your hotel, it will be time to continue reading this guide and find out more about the best things to do in Salzburg!

During your Salzburg tour, go take a look at #9 on Getreidegasse . There you’ll find Mozart’s birthplace .

His parents moved there in 1747 and it was on January 27, 1756 that his mother gave birth to the not-yet-but-soon-to-be famous Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. He would spend all of his childhood and part of his adolescence in this house before moving with his parents a little further down the road to Mamkartplatz.

Mozart later moved to Vienna , where he died on December 7, 1791.

The house is now a 3-story museum .

Here you will find portraits of the famous composer, musical instruments that belonged to him as well as varius furniture and artefacts re-creating a classical interior from the 18th century period.

Admission is included with the Salzburg Card .

If you have an interest in Mozart’s life , you also grab the opportunity to book a reservation (click on the orange link for info):

• A private Mozart-themed tour including admission to his birthplace.
• A guided walking tour of Salzburg featuring an introduction to the old city and the history of Mozart.

One of the most beautiful streets in the old town of Salzburg is the Getreidegasse , and this is where you’ll find Mozart’s birthplace (as mentionned above).

With its hand forged iron signs (even the local McDonald’s has its own!), traditional houses and arched passageways, the street has a very authentic feel to it and is the perfect place to stroll in Salzburg.

There you’ll find many traditional stores, major fashion brands , boutiques selling the region’s local and typical products and obviously loads of cafes and restaurants .

The perfect place to go for a little shopping break in Salzburg .

If you want to thoroughly visit Salzburg and in particular want to learn more about its history , you can also book a guided walking tour of the city .

The tour lasts 2 1/2 hours , enough time for you to wander around the old town and especially the Getreidegasse. 

Visiting Salzburg also means discovering Mirabell Castle and its gardens . You can get there from Getreidegasse by taking the Makartsteg pedestrian bridge .

It’s construction started in 1606 by order of Prince Archbishop Wolf for his mistress Salome Alt. The name “Mirabell” meaning “admirable” and “beautiful”, the Prince was definitely a seducer!

This sublime Baroque structure now houses the mayor’s and the city’s administration offices. You can still get in to gaze at the Marble Hall , a majestic room ranked among the most beautiful wedding venues in the world (if you know a Prince that wants to get married, tell him about the place).

Mozart gave a few concerts there in his days and the castle also served as a decor for the world-renowned “The Sound of Music” movie.

To perpetuate its musical tradition it now hosts philharmonic orchestras like Vienna’s or Berlin’s.

If you want to hear Mozart’s works played by talented musicians in a sumptuous setting , don’t wait any longer and book your tickets in advance here .

You can also get a combo with dinner at the Grand Sheraton’s Mirabell Restaurant + classical concert night at Mirabell Castle. Just click on this link to book !

It’s not only the castle you get to enjoy at Mirabell, the gardens are just as magnificent . Along with the view over the cathedral and fortress , the place is truly a must-see in Salzburg .

As you walk through the gardens, you’ll be able to enjoy:

• The Pegasus Fountain
• The Great Fountain and its 4 statues as symbolic of the 4 elements.
• The hedge theater , one of the oldest theaters of greenery in existence.
• The rose garden
• The orangery
• The Dwarf Garden , consisting of 28 white marble dwarves, the garden’s main attraction at the time.

To visit Salzburg and easily get from one place of interest to another, you should book a ticket for the multi-stop bus that runs throughout the city.

It passes by Mirabell Castle and the Hellbrun Palace .

You will also be provided with an audio guide .

Book your ticket for the Salzburg sightseeing bus now by clicking here!

Hellbrunn Palace lies south of Salzburg, at the foot of the Hellbrunner Berg.

Built in 1612 to serve as the summer residence of one of the princes archbishop , it is one of the most lavish examples of Renaissance-style architecture .

You can visit the Palace’s interior but there’s not much to see. The main attraction is its immense garden and hugely popular water games .

To impress and especially entertain his guests the archbishop had a whole mechanized show on the theme of water installed in his garden .

There you’ll find many animated fountains and more than 200 automated machines handling tools or musical instruments in an attempt at reproducing the city’s everyday life of the time. The caves of Neptune and Venus are a must-see.

The garden is the perfect place for a family outing in Salzburg. In addition to the water features, there is a large playground for kids and plenty of trails to walk around or just relax.

Access to the garden is free.

Voyage Tips - Advice To get to Hellbrun Castle, take bus line 25 . You’ll find one of this line’s bus stop next to Mozart’s birthplace. The journey to the garden takes about 15 minutes.

The Salzburg Zoo is adjacent to Hellbrunn Palace. It was built on the former archbishop’s game park grounds.

The zoo will be a delight for the whole family with over 1,200 animals and 140 different species .

You’ll be able to say hello to a few lions, linx and even white rhinos if you’re lucky. The 14 hectares (35 acres) park is well designed and divided into different areas for each continent. It is well maintained and the animals do not seem (too) cramped.

Following the visit to the water works, this is the perfect place to carry on your family day out . Allow approximately 2 hours for the visit.

Admission to the zoo is included with the Salzburg Card .

The city of Salzburg boasts plenty of other interesting museums in addition to the ones I’ve already mentioned.

I have prepared a list to help you organize your visits in accordance with your own personal preferences:

• The Natural History Museum and its exhibits ranging from the dinosaurs to the human body, physical sciences and even aeronautics. A very entertaining and interactive museum.
• The Salzburg Museum of Modern Art and its collection of works from the 20 th and 21 th centuries.
• The Salzburg Museum focusing on the history of the city and its residents.
• Hangar-7 and its collection of planes, helicopters and even Formula 1 cars.

If you were wondering what to do in Salzburg when it’s raining , you now have a good set of options!

The Salzburg Festival is one of the most famous festivals in the world .

Held annually in the summer, it features opera/theater performances and classical music concerts. The world’s top artists perform here each year to the delight of the spectators.

With more than 200 performances given over a 90-day time frame, it’s a marathon! Its richness and diversity are internationally praised.

You could attend “The Magic Flute” by Mozart or a concert by the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra during this spectacular event.

Shows are performed primarily in the Grand Palace of Festivities, Mozart’s House, the Felsenreitschule (litteraly rocks riding school) and on the Cathedral plaza .

If you have decided to go to Salzburg in the summer it’s a must-see!

For a little quiet stroll in Salzburg, I recommend taking a mini-cruise on the Salzach, the river that winds through the city. An excellent way for you to discover the city’s numerous monuments from another angle .

Several Salzburg cruises available: 1) The classic tour which takes about 40 minutes. Book this Salzburg boat trip here:

2) Mini-cruise + visit to Hellbrunn Castle package.

Departing from Salzburg, the boat will take you to the Hellbrunn quay where a double-decker bus will be waiting to drop you off at the castle entrance. Interior tour + 1 priority access to the garden fountains included in the package .

After your visit, you will be taken back to Salzburg the same way you came.

Book your boat ride in Salzburg + visit to Hellbrunn now by clicking on the button below:

3) Cruise + dinner and concert in the Hohensalzburg Fortress

This package includes a 40 minutes cruise and the funicular ride to the fortress. You’ll then be seated in the panoramic restaurant to enjoy an exquisite dinner followed by a concert dedicated to Mozart .

You can also book your cruise + concert only (dinner not included) by clicking here !

4) Cruise in an amphibious vehicle (+ audio guide)

If you want an alternative suggestion for a night activity in Salzburg , you should definitely try out the ghost-themed tour !

You’ll get to know all the dark legends of the city as you set out on a witch hunt and learn more about the fun and inventive torture methods they used in medieval times.

To book this activity in Salzburg, click here!

Best things to do in Salzburg

If you’ve decided to stay for a few days in Salzburg , you can also use the time you have to visit the neighborhood .

Here’s my advice on the best things to do around Salzburg

At this point, if you are not fed up with visiting castles then you should definitely check out Hohenwerfen Castle .

It’s a 40-minute drive south of Salzburg.

You’ll find among other things the royal apartments, the arsenal, a chapel, the dungeon and the torture room of this 11th century castle . It also features several exhibits including one on its history and a digital, interactive exhibit on the wizarding world.

Unique feature: the castle is also home to the historic Salzburg Falconry . It houses a dedicated museum and offers flying demonstrations of birds of prey such as eagles and falcons.

Since the castle is a really touristy site and one of the most visited around Salzburg, remember to book your entrance ticket in advance . You’ll have the choice of going up with or without the funicular and the audio guide is included:

It’s a must-see around Salzburg, especially if you’ve decided to bring your kids along in Austria . The Hallein Salt Mine is a 20-minute drive from Salzburg.

The mine visit provides an opportunity to learn all about the salt extraction process through a guided tour of the tunnels. All and all a very fun and playful visit since you’ll first ride the mine train that will take you into the depths of the mine.

You’ll then go down a 50-meter slide to access the underground lake where a boat awaits you for a small cruise embellished by a digital sound and light show .

You’ll wrap up the experience with a tour of the Celtic village of Hallein .

Purchase your tickets to the salt mine by clicking the button below:

When departing from Salzburg, you’ll be spoilt for choice if you want to go on a day trip in the surrounding area.

They all include return transportation to Salzburg and guide for 1 day.

I’ve selected the best ones for you below. Just click on the links highlighted in orange to get all the information, rates and proceed with the reservation :

• Half Day Excursion to Hallstatt – Stroll through this charming, picturesque village and get to enjoy its superb lakefront.
• From Salzburg: lakes and mountains in the Salzkammergut – Explore the mountainous region around Salzburg and discover Lake Wolfgang on a boat trip.
• Combined excursion to Hallstatt and Salzkammergut – A perfect blend of the previous 2 excursions, without the lake cruise.
• Tour of Berchtesgaden salt mines and underground lake – Transportation included. Same as for the Hallein Salt Mine with a guide here to tell you all about the salt extraction process. Mine slides and boat ride on the underground lake included.
• From Salzburg: visit Kehlsteinhaus and Berchtesgaden – Discover the Bavarian Alps and the “Eagle’s Nest”, vacation home of the infamous Adolf Hitler.
• Combined excursion of the salt mines + Eagle’s Nest – A combination of the 2 excursions above.
• Combined excursion to salt mines + Salzkammergut – Sightseeing in Berchtesgaden + cruise on Lake Wolfgang.

In addition to the typical tourist visits, you can take advantage of your stay in Salzburg to indulge in some great activities :

• A 15 to 30 minute paragliding initiation to contemplate the Austrian landscape from way up above
• A paragliding flight from Mount Gaisberg starting at 1,287 meters above sea level
• A paragliding initiation flight from Mount Bischling at an elevation of 1,834 meters
• A paragliding initiation in thermal flight with twists and turns and acrobatics (still at Mount Bischling)
• Canyoning – Beginner Level 
• Canyoning – Intermediate level
• Canyoning – Advanced Level / And for the experts among you, you should absolutely try canyoning in the Fischbach Gorge. Book here !
• A rafting trip down the Salzach River – Beginner level / For those who’ve done it before, the “athletic” variant can be booked here !
• Supsquatch on the Salzach River , a kind of giant paddleboard that you ride on with several people.
• A zip line descent : 1,600 meters long and 143 meters off the ground! With a top speed of 130 km/h it is one of the fastest in Europe!

Another exceptional activity: ever thought about booking a private helicopter tour ? Do it in Salzburg! All information is available here !

You should spend 2 days in Salzburg to be able to visit all the places of interest I’ve told you about in this top 17 things to do and see.

All the monuments are in easy reach and you can tour the entire city on foot . Except for Hellbrun Castle , where you should grab the bus since it’s a bit outside the city center.

If you also plan on discovering the city’s surroundings you should stay at least 3 days in Salzburg.

You should also get the Salzburg Card .

As mentioned above, it will give you access to most of the monuments for free, the funicular, Hohensalzburg Fortress and the DomQuartier .

The card also includes unlimited access to public transportation and a scenic boat tour + discounts on a variety of tours around Salzburg .

It will quickly pay for itself. Since I’ll always try to make it easy for you, you can get it directly from the button below:

To visit Salzburg in 1 day you should try the following itinerary:

• Cable ride to Hohensalzburg Fortress and tour of the fortress’ interiors
• Make a stop at Nonnberg Abbey and experience some of the memorable scenes from the movie “The Sound of Music” once again
• Take a tour of the DomQuartier to see St. Peter’s Church, the cathedral, and the former residence of the princes archbishop.
• Lunch break
• Discovery of the famous Mozart’s birthplace and Getreidegasse , the street with a thousand signs.
• End your day at Mirabell Palace and its splendid gardens .

In the evening, you can also join a Ghost Tour .

Your guide will take you to the “dark side” of the city by telling you all the witch stories and legends , explaining medieval torture methods , and relating various strange events that have occurred.

And for those who may be in a hurry or cannot walk too much, do not hesitate to take a hop-on-hop-off tourist bus. It truly is the best way to see everything in a day without getting tired .

You can buy your Hop-On Hop-Off city tour here !

To visit Salzburg in 2 days , you should follow the one-day above itinerary and add:

• The discovery of Hellbrunn Palace and its water games .
• Visit to the zoo located right next door.
• Remaining afternoon in one or more of the city’s museums such as the Salzburg Museum or the Museum of Natural History (a must if you travel with your kids).

To help you prepare your stay, I have selected for you the best accommodations in Salzburg according to your budget .

Here are the best places to stay in Salzburg:

• Stadtalm Naturfreundehaus : Hostel located near the Salzburg Museum of Modern Art. Dormitory beds from €25, breakfast included. Access is not very easy as it is on top of a hill, and the rooms are a bit small, but the view, on the other hand, is extraordinary. This is the best price for a hostel in Salzburg. Other ones start at €50, which is a bit expensive for a simple dormitory bed.
• Motel One Salzburg-Süd : Hotel located 4 km from the center of Salzburg. A bus stop right in front allows you to reach the center in just 10 minutes (and remember, with the Salzburg Card it’s free). Spacious and modern double room from €100 per night, breakfast at €9.5. Strong Points: quiet location, comfortable bedding, excellent breakfast. It’s my favorite for its excellent value for money !
• H+ Hotel Salzburg : Located 15 minutes walk from Mirabell Palace. Modern and comfortable double room from €120 per night, breakfast at €17. Strong points: breakfast room with mountain views, comfortable beds, shops, and restaurants nearby.
• Hotel Sacher Salzburg : 5-star hotel located in the heart of Salzburg’s old town and by the river. Comfortable and spacious double rooms, each uniquely furnished, from €400 per night, breakfast at €35. Strong points: central location for walking to all sights, very friendly staff, excellent bedding, high-quality and plentiful breakfast, view of the fortress. The best hotel in Salzburg for a luxury stay !

• Gablerbrau : Located at 9 Linzer Gasse. This restaurant offers traditional Austrian dishes in a cozy atmosphere. The dishes are generous and varied. Great value for money.
• Barenwirt : Located by the river at 8 Mullner Main Street. Here, too, typical Austrian cuisine is on the menu! The portions are more than generous and very delicious, and the prices are quite low. If you’re looking for an authentic restaurant, this is the right choice. Reservation is highly recommended and even a few days in advance.
• Organic Pizza Salzburg : If you’re a bit tired of Austrian cuisine, nothing beats a good pizza! Located at 24 Franz-Josef-Strasse, this small establishment offers very good organic pizzas with homemade dough. Vegans can also enjoy their meal here.

If you want to learn how to cook some Austrian specialties like the emblematic dessert, apfelstrudel , you should book this cooking class .

The workshop lasts 1h30 during which you will prepare a strudel and a Salzburger Nockerl (a soufflé served as a dessert). Lunch also includes a soup before you get to enjoy your desserts.

Book your cooking workshop in Salzburg directly with the button below:

To reach Salzburg from France , you can take a flight from Paris. No other direct flights from France. If you’re departing from another city, you’ll have at least one layover.

You can also choose to first land in Vienna and then head to Salzburg. Allow:

• Approximately 3 hours by car
• At least 7 hours by bus for about €30, not the fastest and not even most economical option!
• 2h20 for €20 by train, which is the best option if you don’t want to rent a car.

You should check the train schedules and fares before leaving and book your tickets here :

Flight prices to Austria can vary greatly, so it’s a good idea to compare them as early as possible. For this, you can use our flight comparison tool, in partnership with Skyscanner. This ensures you get the best price.

Once on the results page, don’t hesitate to compare several websites to make sure no fees are added to the final prices.

To help you visualize the city a bit better, I’ve created a tourist map of Salzburg listing the places to visit that I talk about in this top 17 things to do. You can display the map legend by clicking the button with a small arrow at the top left corner.

Discover all my articles about Austria : All my articles to help you plan your trip to Austria are listed there.

• 20 Best Things to Do in Austria : all best places to visit and activities
• Itinerary: One week in Austria – The perfect itinerary for your 7-8 days trip to Austria
• Graz: TOP 10 best places to visit
• Hallstatt: TOP 6 things to do during your stay
• Innsbruck: The 15 best things to do and see
• Linz: TOP 12 places to visit and must-see attractions
• Salzburg: The 17 best things to do
• Vienna: TOP 25 tourist attractions  

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Creator of the Voyage Tips blog, travel and photography lover. I give you all my best tips to plan your next trip.

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17 BEST Places to See & Things to Do in Salzburg, Austria (+Map & Tips)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: June 2, 2024

Thinking of visiting Salzburg in Austria and wondering what there’s to see and do in the city? In this guide, we cover all the musts, top sights, most important landmarks, and things to do in Salzburg that are worth your time the most. For each place, we also include our experience-based tips and useful information for your visit. Take a look!

Instantly recognizable as the beautiful backdrop to the iconic movie ‘The Sound of Music’, the romantic city of Salzburg is steeped in history and rich in culture. Mozart was born here and the city’s tradition of music remains strong. There are numerous performances and concerts every night and various festivals held annually.

But there is so much more to this charming city than its musical heritage. From its scenic location in the foothills of the Alps to its exquisite architecture and wonderful food, Salzburg is a destination that has a lot to offer to any type of traveler.

In this guide, we share all the main sights and attractions in Salzburg , as well as useful tips for visiting this beautiful and vibrant city for the first time. We also created a map indicating all the top places to see in Salzburg – you can find it at the bottom of this article.

TIP: Be sure to buy the Salzburg Card to last the duration of your visit. It gives you free and fast access to many of the city’s main attractions and includes free public transportation too. It will quickly pay for itself, even if you only visit a few of the main highlights in Salzburg in one day! If you spend 2-3 days in the city and surroundings, this card offers incredible value.

READ ALSO: Salzburg 1 Day Itinerary & Salzburg 2 Days Itinerary

These are the very best places to see and things to do in Salzburg:

1. Mirabell Palace & Gardens

Built early in the 17th century by prince-archbishop Wolf Dietrich for his wife, Mirabell Palace and Gardens is one of the most beautiful places in Salzburg. The palace, the manicured gardens, the fountains, the views – everything is so beautiful. A visit here is like stepping into a fairytale !

Mirabell Palace is home to the Angel Staircase and the famous Marble Hall , considered one of the most beautiful wedding halls in the world. Mozart once made music here, and these days, you can attend a Mozart concert here almost every evening .

Good to know: Normally, you can visit the Angel Staircase (daily from 8 am to 6 pm) and the Marble Hall (Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 8 am to 4 pm and Tuesday and Friday from 1 pm to 4 pm), and the entrance is free of charge. However, the Marble Hall is frequently used to host weddings and other important ceremonies, in which case it’s closed to visitors. So if you absolutely want to see this beautiful hall from the inside and it’s closed, see if you can book concert tickets instead.

The real attraction here, though, are the gardens . Designed in a geometrical Baroque style, they are so beautiful, especially in the warmer months when all the flowers are blooming.

You can see the Pegasus Fountain here, along with the palace Chapel consecrated in 1726. You can also see a Dwarf Garden containing 17 dwarves made from white Untersberg marble, plus an Orangery and an ornamental Rose Garden.

Good to know: If the Pegasus Fountain looks familiar to you, that’s probably because it was used as another location in the ‘Sound of Music’. It was here that Maria and the children danced as they sang ‘Do Re Mi’.

2. Old Town

Salzburg Old Town is filled with stunning architecture, grand squares, and picturesque streets and alleys. It’s here that you’ll find most of the city’s historic buildings, landmarks, and museums. At the same time, it’s also a very lively place with lots of shops, cafes, and restaurants.

It would be impossible to list every place that’s worth seeing here, and the best way to experience the historic old town is to simply walk around and see ‘everything’. The good thing is that the historic old town is quite compact and so it’s actually quite easy to do.

Below, you can find some information about the main places not to miss in Salzburg’s old town, and we also indicated all of them on our map further below.

Some of the main places not to miss include the major squares around the cathedral: Alter Markt , Residenzplatz , Mozartplatz , Domplatz , and Kapitelplatz . They all interconnect and so you basically just walk from one to the other, trying to absorb the incredible atmosphere around you.

On the Alter Markt , you’ll find the historic Café Tomaselli, the oldest café in Austria. On Mozartplatz – the statue of Mozart, and on Kapitelplatz – a huge golden ball with a sculpture of a man standing on top of it. In the middle of Domplatz , right in front of the cathedral entrance, stands a statue of the Virgin Mary with a Child and four allegoric statues around it.

Residenzplatz is home to the impressive bell tower of Salzburg Carillon ( Salzburger Glockenspiel ) – its 35 bells play various songs three times a day (at 7 am, 11 am, and 6 pm). Here, you’ll also see the impressive baroque fountain with horses.

This is also the place where horse-drawn carriage rides start. Residenzplatz is also home to some lesser-visited museums that might be worth it if you have lots of extra time for sightseeing.

You also really can’t miss Getreidegasse , the most beautiful pedestrian shopping street in Salzburg. Every store here has a really unique sign on its facade, making the street really picturesque. Another charming old street to check out is the Goldgasse that connects Alter Markt with Residenzplatz.

Be sure to also check out the Franziskanergasse , a small street where the Franciscan Monastery is located. The gothic interior of the church is very impressive.

And finally, I also recommend a small detour to Marstallschwemme – Pferdeschwemme . The fountain with big murals depicting horses stands at the base of Mönchsberg, with the steep cliffs of the mountain right behind it. This is one of the two preserved horse baths in Salzburg.

3. Mozart’s Birthplace

Mozart’s Birthplace is one of the city’s main tourist attractions and definitely a ‘must see’ when you visit Salzburg. It was here – in this bright yellow building at Getreidegasse 9 – that Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was born on 27 January 1756.

He lived here throughout his childhood and much of his youth (until the age of 17) in a middle-class apartment on the third floor. You can take a stroll through the apartment itself, which has been reconstructed as accurately as possible with items from everyday life and 18th-century furniture.

Pieces on display include original letters and certificates documenting Mozart’s life, several portraits painted during his lifetime, and his own clavichord and violin. There is even a lock of hair – believed to be Mozart’s – attached to a letter he wrote in 1777!

Although the museum is small and the number of exhibits quite limited, it feels very special to stand in the footsteps of the great composer and get a glimpse of life as he may have seen it.

TIP: Try to visit early in the morning, before the tour groups arrive. Alternatively, come here an hour or 30 minutes before the closing time. As you can imagine, the museum gets VERY busy!

Practical information: Mozart’s Birthplace is open daily, with hours varying a bit per season. More info here . Free entry is included on the Salzburg Card .

4. DomQuartier Salzburg

A UNESCO World Heritage site, DomQuartier Salzburg is a stunning attraction made up of a complex of baroque buildings built around three courtyards.

It was created by the prince-archbishops of Salzburg more than 400 years ago. Originally it contained both their residential quarters and a Cathedral, as an expression of their claim to rule both the heavens and the earth.

These days it is home to three interconnected museums – among the most compelling in the city! You can walk through the beautiful baroque state rooms and visit the impressive Residenz Gallery , containing artworks by 16th- to 19th-century painters such as Rembrandt and Rubens.

Also not to be missed are the awesome views of the city mountains and the Salzburg historic district from the terrace above the Cathedral Arches .

The Cathedral Museum is interesting to see too, from the elaborate stuccowork of the rooms of the Northern Oratory to the views of the cathedral’s magnificent interior from the organ loft.

You also visit the Museum of St. Peter’s Abbey , and the Long Gallery , the oldest gallery in Salzburg that was the prince archbishops’ painting gallery.

Good to know: DomQuartier Salzburg is a large museum and if you want to see everything in detail, you should set aside 2 to 3 hours for your visit. However, if your time is short it would be possible to walk through the best of the exhibits in around an hour.

Practical information: DomQuartier Salzburg is open daily except on Tuesdays. For more details, see the official website . Entry here is also included with the Salzburg Card.

5. Hohensalzburg Fortress

Dating back to the 11th century, Hohensalzburg Fortress is one of the largest and best-preserved fortresses in Europe.

A key landmark of Salzburg and an integral part of its skyline, the fortress is located high on Festungberg Hill. You can either walk to it or take a funicular from the old town, which is far quicker and much easier.

When you get there, the views from the various lookouts are magnificent. With the Salzach River winding its way throughout the city and the soaring mountains in the background, it looks like something from a postcard. But it is even more impressive when the sun goes down and the city lights illuminate the scene.

Throughout its life, Hohensalzburg has been a fort, a military barracks, a prison, and home to the prince archbishops. Now it houses several museums and has the look and feel of a medieval village within its protective walls.

The Fortress Museum is especially interesting as it includes access to the staterooms , including the Princes’ Hall, the Golden Chamber, and the Golden Hall. These contain original furnishings from the early 16th century that are very much worth seeing!

TIP: If you are traveling with children, be sure to visit the Arsenal building. It contains several interactive games that the entire family can enjoy.

Practical information: Hohensalzburg Fortress is open daily. From May to September, from 9 am to 8 pm, the rest of the year – from 9.30 am to 5 pm. You could spend 2-3 hours here, or just see the ‘musts’ in about 1.5 hours.

The funicular and museums are included with the Salzburg Card , except for the staterooms (unless you visit before 11 am). If you have to pay a few euros extra to see them, do it – it’s totally worth it!

Good to know: In the evenings, you can attend a Mozart concert inside the state rooms at the Hohensalzburg Fortress. You can choose between concert-only or concert and dinner options – see all the ticket options here .

6. Mozart Residence

Mozart Residence is another place that deserves a mention on any list of the best things to do in Salzburg. Not to be confused with the earlier-mentioned Mozart’s Birthplace, this is a house at No. 8 Makartplatz, on the other side of the river. This is where Mozart lived with his family from 1773 until he moved to Vienna in 1781.

A large part of this house was destroyed during an air raid in the second world war. It was later reconstructed according to the original building plans and opened as a museum in 1996.

A visit here gives you another wonderful insight into Mozart’s life. You can see a portrait of Mozart and his family in the large ballroom – an image considered to be one of the most accurate depictions of the composer anywhere. The room also contains Mozart’s original piano from the family estate.

The audio guide (included with free entry using the Salzburg Card) explains the significance of the rooms you visit and tells the stories of each family member.

Practical information: Mozart Residence is open daily from 9 am to 5.30 pm. In July and August, it’s open from 8.30 am to 7 pm. The entrance here is also free with Salzburg Card. You need 30-45 minutes for a visit here.

7. St. Peter’s Abbey Site

Located beside DomQuartier is the Abbey of St. Peter , a Benedictine monastery and former cathedral. You can’t enter the Abbey itself, although a visit to the interior of its ‘Long Gallery’ is included as part of the DomQuartier tour.

But you might want to stop and take a moment to appreciate the wonderful smell of fresh bread coming from Stiftsbäckerei St Peter, Salzburg’s oldest bakery . You can still see the old water wheel originally used to power the monastery’s mill just as you enter the abbey site.

The Abbey of St. Peter’s main attraction, however, is its beautiful, ancient cemetery (Friedhof St. Peter) and St. Peter’s Catacombs .

Fans of the ‘Sound of Music’ movie flock to see the cemetery , as it was here that one of the final scenes was filmed. If you’ve seen the movie, you definitely remember how the von Trapp family was hiding here during their escape from the National Socialists.

But there are many other points of interest, including St. Margaret Chapel ( Margarethenkapelle ) and the vaults and burial sites of some of the city’s most notable residents. Mozart’s sister and her husband are buried here as well.

The Early Christian catacombs – hewn from the rock of the Mönchsberg mountain during the 1100s – are the oldest and best-maintained in Austria. Two different levels are open to the public – the ‘Gertrauden Chapel’ and the ‘Maximus Chapel’, located 40 steps higher.

Here you can see the preserved remains of ancient tombs, altars, relics, and murals. You can also enjoy beautiful views of the city from the balcony around halfway down the stairs.

Good to know: The steps inside the catacombs are very steep and there is no handrail, so it helps to wear walking shoes with a good grip.

Practical information: The cemetery is free to visit and a ticket for entry to the catacombs is free with the Salzburg Card. The Catacombs are open daily except for some public holidays. They usually close for lunch between 12.30 and 1 pm. Count 15-30 minutes a visit here.

8. Salzburg Cathedral

The impressive Cathedral is one of the most notable landmarks in Salzburg. Standing right in the heart of the old town and surrounded by the most beautiful and important town squares, you’ll inevitably pass here at least a few times during your visit.

A cathedral was first built on this site in 774. Throughout the centuries, a series of fires led to it being entirely rebuilt three times. The last major reconstruction dates from 1628 and the towers – 40 years later. The central dome, however, was destroyed entirely by bombing during WWII and the basilica we see now was eventually completed in 1959.

The cathedral houses the font where Mozart was baptized in 1756 and contains five organs, one of which – the Hoforgel – he later played. Most spectacular of all is the view of the dome’s interior, featuring 16 frescoes in 2 rows depicting Old Testament scenes.

Good to know: A visit to the earlier-mentioned DomQuartier Salzburg includes a look at the inside of the cathedral, including a close-up view of its impressive organ. This means that you don’t need to plan a separate visit to see it unless you want to explore everything inside.

But it is certainly worth taking the time to view this magnificent building from the outside too. This baroque masterpiece is visually stunning, featuring two spires and an imposing copper dome. There are four huge statues at the main entrance, depicting the apostles Peter and Paul and the two patron saints Virgil (who built the very first cathedral) and Rupert.

TIP: If you are a music lover, then perhaps the best way to enjoy the cathedral is to attend one of the 30-minute organ recitals that take place just after noon every day, except for Sunday. You can find more information and get the tickets here . If it’s not too busy, you can normally get a ticket on the spot as well – the Cathedral is huge and there’s lots of space inside.

Practical information: Salzburg Cathedral is open daily, with hours varying per season. No visits are allowed during mass and during the concerts at noon. There’s a small fee to visit the cathedral, and this is one of the few of the main sights in Salzburg that are not included with the city card (you do get a discount though).

9. Views from Kapuzinerberg

Located on the Salzach River’s eastern bank, Kapuzinerberg is the highest point in Salzburg. However, the viewpoint at the monastery is just a bit uphill, so you won’t have to climb far. The short uphill walk is a bit steep, but the unmissable views awaiting you make it very worthwhile. This is one of the best viewpoints in the old town of Salzburg!

Along the trail, you will come across the Stations of Cross ( Kalvarienbergkapellen Kapuzinerberg ), Franziskischlössl (a small 17th-century defense tower), a small church that you can visit, and the monastery for Capuchin friars from which the hill took its name.

From the viewing platforms at the top, you can enjoy sweeping views of Salzburg , taking in the old town, the fortress, the river, and the surrounding mountains.

There are two times of the day that are particularly good to visit. One is at noon, when you can hear all the church bells across the city ringing – a wonderful sound that really enhances the experience. Alternatively, visit towards the end of the day for some truly spectacular sunset views.

Good to know: There are two ways to get to the top of Kapuzinerberg – by stairs from Steingasse or via the road with the cross stations starting at Linzer Gasse. The latter is much easier than the stairs, so I recommend that way up and then taking the stairs down – that way, you can also enjoy the nice views in the direction of the river and the fortress.

10. Views from Mönchsberg

Another place from which to enjoy exceptional city views in Salzburg is at the top of Mönchsberg hill .

You can reach the viewing platform – also known as Winkler Terrace – by taking a short elevator ride from Gstättengasse street, near the river. The cost of the ride is also included in the Salzburg Card. Alternatively, you can hike to the lookout point using the Mönchsberg hiking path on the other side of the hill.

There is a museum of modern art at the top of the hill, although you don’t need to buy tickets for it in order to access the viewing platform. You’ll find the platform just through the glass doors to the right of the elevator. The panoramic views are some of the finest in Europe and were featured in some of the most famous scenes of ‘The Sound of Music’.

Right at the viewing platform, there’s also a restaurant with a big outdoor terrace. This could be a nice place for a drink. Mönchsberg also has several walking trails, and you’ll see locals walking dogs or jogging here.

TIP: From the viewing platform at the museum, take the stairs on the right-hand side and follow the path until you reach a second viewpoint from which you can see another angle of the city. Yet a bit further down the dirt path and then a sharp right down the stairs, you’ll find a viewpoint at Humboldtterrasse . The views here are also very nice, with yet another angle on the river and the old town.

11. Hellbrunn Palace

Located just a bit outside the city center, Hellbrunn Palace is another place that’s well worth including in your Salzburg sightseeing itinerary if you have at least 2 days in the city. This magnificent Baroque palace took just 3 years to build, from 1612 until 1615. That would have been considered record time at the start of the 17th century!

Intended as a summer retreat, it was constructed for the enjoyment of the prince-archbishop Markus Sittikus. Over the years, it became a getaway spot for all sorts of rulers who enjoyed good food, the exotic foliage, and the palace’s famous trick fountains!

These remain a popular attraction today, with hidden water jets soaking – yet delighting – its visitors. It is funny to think of all the aristocratic members of society from the past also getting sprayed by these secret fountains!

There is lots more to see at this pleasure palace, including the water-powered Mechanical Theater with almost 200 moving wood carvings, the beautifully landscaped gardens, and a large adventure playground for children. There is also an exhibition inside the palace where you can learn lots more about its fascinating past.

You can also see the gazebo in which Liesl and Franz sang to each other in ‘The Sound of Music’. Another interesting place is the Stone Theatre in the forest – a natural rock quarry that Markus Sittikus had converted into a stage.

Practical information: Hellbrunn Palace is open daily from the beginning of April till the end of October. You can easily get here by public transport from the city center in about 15 minutes. Transport, as well as the entrance to the palace, are also included with Salzburg Card .

Alternatively, you can also visit here with a hop-on hop-off bus (entrance to the palace not included) or this river cruise that brings you to the palace and includes the entry tickets. Some other (Sound of Music) tours stop here as well, but usually do not visit the grounds of the palace.

TIP: If you are visiting Salzburg before Christmas, a visit to this palace is a must! The entire courtyard and old driveway are completely transformed into a magical and festive Advent Market.

12. Nonnberg Abbey

Founded at some point between 712 and 715, Nonnberg Abbey is the oldest Benedictine nunnery in the German-speaking region. But that isn’t its only claim to fame!

The true story of a novice from the nunnery – Maria Kutschera – was the inspiration behind the now world-famous movie, ‘The Sound of Music’.

Maria was sent by her abbess to be a governess to the children of the widowed Baron Georg Ritter von Trapp. She later married the baron and – as the movie portrays – founded a family choir. It’s pretty amazing to visit the spot where the story started! The Abbey was also used as one of the filming locations for the movie.

Peaceful and pretty, it contains frescoes at the high altar and in the “Paradise” under the nuns’ choir that can be illuminated.

Practical information: Both the church and the cemetery are open to visitors every day from 6.45 am, although visits are not permitted during services. Located at the foot of the Festungsberg, Nonnberg Abbey can be reached from Kaigasse via the Nonnbergstiege staircase.

Good to know: If you are an early riser, consider coming here in the morning when the beautiful sound of the nuns’ choir fills the Nonnberg Abbey Church at 6.45 am. You can also hear them sing in the afternoon (weekdays at 5.15 pm, Saturdays at 5 pm, Sundays and public holidays at 4.30 pm), although these times are subject to change.

13. Salzach River Cruise

Taking a slow cruise along the Salzach River is another popular thing to do in Salzburg for tourists. It gives you a great opportunity to view the city from a different perspective, but also to rest your legs and enjoy the scenery in comfort.

Although there are various cruises available – romantic cruises, for example, or those including visits to particular attractions – a regular boat tour is free with the Salzburg Card .

Taking around 40 to 50 minutes, it includes a commentary in both German and English to help you learn more about the places you’re seeing. Eight kilometers long in total, the route takes you towards Hellbrunn, slightly beyond the limit of the city, then returns the way you came. The tour ends with the boat ‘waltzing in the river’ which is quite fun and definitely the most exciting part of this easy-going tour.

Good to know: Unless you book a timed ticket at an extra cost, you may not be able to find a spot for the next available cruise. So if you want to use the Salzburg Card for this, you have to stop by their ticket office by the river to reserve a place. We were lucky to just get on the next boat, but we were visiting outside the main season and we literally got the last spots. The boats quickly fill up in the summer.

While I find that a river cruise is something nice to do in Salzburg if you have plenty of time, it’s definitely not a must if your time is limited. I think it would be more enjoyable if you do it as part of this tour that includes the Hellbrunn Palace visit.

14. The Sound of Music Tours

It is hard to visit Salzburg without acknowledging its deep connection to the famous Hollywood movie ‘The Sound of Music’.

But even if you are not a fan, the bus tours are well worth taking as they include so many lovely places outside the city. Bicycle tours are also available, although these tend to concentrate more on the city itself and will often include places you will already see anyway.

Whilst there are several options available, most tours will take in iconic locations like Mirabell Gardens (with the Pegasus Fountain), Leopoldskron Palace (where the boating scene was filmed), the rebuilt Gazebo at Hellbrunn Palace, Nonnberg Abbey, and the wider Salzburg Lake District Area. The final destination is often Mondsee, where you can see the church in which Maria and Baron von Trapp were married in the movie.

TIP: This highly-rated bus tour is the most popular original Sound of Music tour in Salzburg.

15. Mozart Concerts

Mozart concerts with or without dinner are among the most popular things to do in Salzburg. You can opt for an all-in experience that includes a concert and a nice dinner, or just attend a concert (usually, in a very beautiful setting).

There are various options, and most of them are available almost daily throughout the year.

Here are the best Mozart concerts in Salzburg :

• Mozart classical concert at the Marble Hall of Mirabell Palace . This option doesn’t include dinner.
• Mozart Fortress concert with dinner at the staterooms inside the Hohensalzburg Fortress . You can also opt for the concert-only option here (so no dinner).
• Mozart concert with dinner – inside the Baroque Hall of St. Peter Abbey . If you are looking for a really good food experience too, this is the best option. Also, this is a more special experience with opera singers in costumes, etc.

16. Traditional Beer Gardens & Restaurants

While not something you can compare with visiting the famous landmarks, just as fun – and must-do in Salzburg – are the traditional beer gardens and restaurants .

This is just something so typical to the region and no trip would be complete without at least a quick drink at a Biergarten (beer garden) or a traditional Austrian meal at a Bierkeller (beer cellar).

One of the easiest-to-visit beer gardens in the center of Salzburg is Sternbräu , located between the main shopping street Getreidegasse and the river. Another popular choice (also a restaurant) is Augustiner bräu at an old cloister.

One of the oldest beer cellars in Salzburg is PitterKeller (1926) located in the basement of Imlauer Hotel Pitter. With dark-wood walls and traditional murals, it’s a real institution in Salzburg, a popular dining place for locals and tourists alike. If you plan to come for dinner (and definitely on weekends), it’s best to reserve in advance.

TIP: As an absolute minimum, you really can’t leave Salzburg without trying some pretzels . Locals seem to eat them at all times of day, and you’ll even find them served for breakfast at the hotels in the area. You can buy pretzels in bakeries, street-food stands, cafés etc. all over the city.

17. Salzburg Museums

In addition to all the main sights and attractions in Salzburg mentioned above, there are also many museums in the city. Many of them are included with the Salzburg Card as well and could make a nice addition to your itinerary.

However, I’d only recommend visiting most of them if you have more than 2 days in the city and/or are really interested in a specific museum. It’s also something nice to do in Salzburg when it rains or in winter when you might want to spend more time inside.

We visited a few of them and found that they weren’t really worth it on a short visit. Often, it’s better to spend more time in fewer places rather than trying to ‘see it all’. But if you do indeed have time to spare, here are some of the best museums in Salzburg (and included with the Salzburg Card):

• Salzburg Panorama . Located on Residenzplatz, this museum houses a giant 26 meters – long panorama painting depicting the city as it looked in 1829.
• Salzburg Christmas Museum. If you love Christmas, you’ll love this museum. Most exhibits date from mid 19th to the beginning of the 20th century.
• Salzburg Museum. Located in the Neue Residenz on Residenzplatz, this museum gives you insights into the art and history of Salzburg through a somewhat eclectic mix of exhibitions and multimedia installations.
• Museum of Modern Art at Mönchsberg . Contemporary art museum with works from the 20-21st centuries.
• Toy Museum. This interactive museum can be fun if you are looking to fill a few hours in Salzburg with kids.

17+. Explore beyond the city

No trip to Salzburg would be complete without seeing the beautiful surroundings. The area is stunning, with palaces and medieval castles, incredible mountain landscapes, and too many beautiful places to see to even try to mention them here.

Here are some of the most popular (half) day trips from Salzburg for first-time visitors:

• Hallstatt & Salzkammergut. Hallstatt is probably the most-photographed mountain village in the world, instantly recognizable for its picturesque lakeside church with a stunning mountain backdrop. This is one of the most visited places in Austria and the most popular day trip from Salzburg. See all the tour options here .
• Eagle’s Nest and Berchtesgaden. This is Adolf Hitler’s famous vacation home in the Bavarian Alps, right at the Austrian – German border, a very short ride from Salzburg. See tour options here .
• Berchtesgaden Salt Mines and underground lake. This is a really fun tour for the whole family. Not only do you get to visit the old salt mines, but also take a raft tour on the subterranean lake. You also see some amazing scenery of the Bavarian Alps (just over the border in Germany). See tour options here .

These are just the most popular options that you can visit with organized tours from Salzburg. If you have a car, the possibilities are almost endless.

Our kids absolutely loved Eisriesenwelt , the biggest ice cave in the world, as well as the birds of prey show at the Hohenwerfen Castle (tickets and more info here ). You can also visit the ice cave with a tour , but it’s rather expensive.

Another nice free attraction in Salzburg is Hangar-7 (aka Red Bull Hangar), just outside the city center. You can also consider Salzburg open-air museum which showcases 100 rebuilt farmhouses from the 16th century onward and includes a short train ride through the grounds (free with Salzburg Card ).

TIP: If you are visiting Salzburg in winter and are looking for something special to do in the beautiful area nearby, check out this horse carriage sleigh ride experience . In summer, there are also rafting tours available (both – beginner-level and white-water rafting). And, of course, you can simply visit the mountains, go hiking, and enjoy the spectacular scenery.

Map of the Best Places to Visit in Salzburg

To help you plan your time in Salzburg, we created a map indicating all the best places to see in the city – see below.

TIP: If you are planning a short city trip to Salzburg and want to make the most of your time, take a look at our sample itineraries via the links below!

READ ALSO: 1 day in Salzburg & 2 days in Salzburg

How to use this map:  Use your computer mouse (or fingers) to zoom in or out. Click on the icons to get more information about each place. Click the arrow on the top left corner for the index. Click the star next to the map’s title to add it to your Google Maps account. To view the saved map on your smartphone or PC, open Google Maps, click the menu and go to ‘Your Places’/’Maps’. If you want to print the map or see it in a bigger window, click on ‘View larger map’ in the top right corner.

Where to Stay for Sightseeing in Salzburg

Salzburg city center is really compact and walkable, so if you stay in the center, you can just walk to almost all the main sights. If you are traveling by train, you may want to stay closer to the station. And if you are visiting by car, make sure that your hotel offers car parking and reserve it in advance if possible.

One of the most convenient areas to stay in Salzburg for sightseeing is the area around the Mirabell Palace. This is also where we stayed – at IMLAUER HOTEL PITTER . The location is excellent, the hotel has a fantastic rooftop terrace, and a really nice traditional restaurant. We loved it.

Below are some of the& best-rated hotels in Salzburg for various budgets :

• €€€€€ Hotel Sacher Salzburg – the most luxurious hotel in the city (+ amazing river views).
• €€€€ Radisson Blu Hotel Altstadt – excellent price/quality in the heart of the old town.
• €€€+ Hotel Stein (adults only) – a nice 4* luxury hotel by the river (+wodnerful rooftop bar).
• €€€ Star Inn Gablerbräu – a very nice and simple 3* hotel – a great mid-budget option.
• €€ H+ Hotel Salzburg – a modern 4* hotel, with great customer reviews.
• € a&o Salzburg Hauptbahnhof – one of the nicest budget options.

TIP: Using the map below, you can compare hotels, apartments, and short-term rental accommodations in and around Salzburg. Simply insert your travel dates and group size, and you’ll see what’s available for your stay. Check it out!

So, this is our guide to the very best of Salzburg for first-time visitors. Whatever your passion – whether it be spectacular scenery, history, architecture, or music – you will find it all in this captivating Austrian city.

Have a great trip!

More travel inspiration for Austria:

• Best Things to Do in Tirol with Kids
• Top of Tyrol – Stubai Glacier
• Tiroler Zugspitz Arena in Summer
• Seebensee & Drachensee Hike
• Zillertal in Summer
• Olpererhütte Hike
• Hintertux Glacier & Nature’s Ice Palace
• Stubai Valley in Summer
• Schlick 2000 in Summer
• Almabtrieb in Austria

If you found this post useful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin these images!

More travel inspiration for European cities:

If you are visiting other European cities and are looking for in-depth information for your trip, take a look at some of our city guides:

• Amsterdam, Netherlands
• Antwerp, Belgium
• Barcelona, Spain
• Bern, Switzerland
• Bologna, Italy
• Brasov, Romania
• Brussels, Belgium
• Bruges, Belgium
• Bucharest, Romania
• Colmar, France
• Edinburgh, UK
• Florence, Italy
• Funchal, Madeira, Portugal
• Geneva, Switzerland
• Krakow, Poland
• Lisbon, Portugal
• Liverpool, UK
• Lucerne, Switzerland
• Madrid, Spain
• Manchester, UK
• Milan, Italy
• Naples, Italy
• Paris, France
• Ponta Delgada, Azores, Portugal
• Ravenna, Italy
• Reykjavik, Iceland
• Rome, Italy
• Seville, Spain
• Siena, Italy
• Sintra, Portugal
• Toledo, Spain
• Venice, Italy
• Verona, Italy
• For more… check our destinations page.

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Friday 18th of August 2023

I love your blog posts and have used them many times! This one for Salzburg is perfect! Thank you for all the information and wonderful recommendation! Take care!!

Friday 25th of August 2023

Glad to help, Aliza, and thank you for the kind feedback. Happy travels!

Home » Travel Guides » Austria » 15 Best Things to Do in Salzburg (Austria)

15 Best Things to Do in Salzburg (Austria)

Salzburg is one of the most renowned cities in Austria and Europe, and has possibly the best-preserved old town centre full of beautiful baroque architecture which is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

This charming Austrian town is most famous for being the birthplace of the classical composer Mozart, but has so much more in terms of historical sights and fun attractions. The list below details the top things to do in Salzburg and contains a wide variety, from Museums and Gardens to Churches and Mountains.

Lets explore the best things to do in Salzburg :

1. Salzburg Fortress

Otherwise known as Hohensalzburg Castle, this imposing Fortress sits in a dominating position on top of the Festungsberg Hill and has been a major power hive for the rulers of Salzburg since the 1000’s.

Since its inception, the castle has undergone many transformations, additions and expansions including a Funicular Cable Car leading from the bottom of the Hill that allows easy access for tourists.

The striking white exterior of the building stands out, while there are many courtyards and walls to look down on the city of Salzburg from.

Inside, there are many rooms and wings to explore containing various artefacts and traditional decor; a large Aerophon (Organ) sits in the powder room, while the Golden Hall contains many marble pillars and the Chapel is decorated with Stuccos and Ornate busts.

The fortress is without a doubt the number one attraction in Salzburg and a wonderful piece of history.

2. Salzburg Old Town

One of the largest UNESCO World Heritage sights by area, the Salzburg Old town or Altstadt encompasses many of the City’s main sights and is full of historical buildings, beautifully designed squares and quaint little side-streets leading off to forgotten corners.

The building style consists mainly of Medieval and Baroque architecture and the old town is just a great place to walk through.

The Old Town is a perfect starting place for your time in Salzburg and you could easily spend a day getting lost in the streets, admiring the sights, having a coffee or maybe doing some shopping.

3. Mirabell Palace and Gardens

Salzburg is not short on historical buildings and gardens, but the Mirabell Palace is outstanding and is one of the finest in Austria.

Listed as a cultural heritage monument, the Palace was built in 1606 and was used mainly as a pleasure palace.

As well as the striking Marble Hall which is a venue for Palace Concerts, the Palace also has a wondrous set of gardens that can be explored at your leisure.

The garden gives great views to Salzburg Cathedral and has a symmetrical design with emphasis on mythology including the Pegasus Fountain and lots of other fountains, hedges, and themed gardens.

If you enjoy maintained Gardens and being in the outdoors, the palace is a brilliant place to visit.

4. Mozart’s Residence

Wherever you go in Salzburg, the influence and fame of Mozart is apparent – Born in a small house originally, the family moved to what is now known as “Mozarts Wohnhaus” in Makartplatz.

The building was reconstructed as closely as possible to the original design after its destruction during World War II and is now open as a museum.

This fantastic museum contains biographies of the family members together with displays of their day to day life and how they would have lived.

For any Mozart fan this museum is a must.

Available activity : Mozart Concert with Dinner

5. Hellbrunn Castle/Palace

Located in the southern Morgz district of Salzburg, Hellbrunn Castle or Palace is surrounded by a beautiful park and also has the Salzburg Zoo close by.

Created in the 1600’s as a residential villa much like Mirabell Palace, Hellbrunn has a lively yellow rendering and its front façade is fully symmetrical.

The main attraction of Hellbrunn Palace however is the gardens and trick fountains.

The gardens are simply magical and contain many different Grottos, Fountains and Water Automats.

What people love most is the water features that try and trick you such as the seats with holes in that spurt water on the unsuspecting guest when you sit down – Its loads of fun and during the summer months a wonderful outdoor space to enjoy.

6. Salzburg Cathedral

A fine example of a Baroque Cathedral, the Salzburg Cathedral is located in an enclosed square next to the Salzburg Residenz and St. Peter’s Abbey, creating a lovely historical area to visit.

This Cathedral has been demolished and rebuilt several times from its initial creation in 774 and now stands as a striking piece of architecture; the front facade has dual bell towers and outside sits the Marian Column in the middle of the “Domplatz”. Although a relatively simple design, it is still striking while its interior is magnificent.

The interior is fairly simplistic too, and has many columns, knaves, a beautiful organ and detailed frescos in the dome.

7. Neugebäude

The Neugebäude or New Residence is a beautiful building in its own right and has halls decorated with Stuccos from the 1600’s and also hosts the Salzburg Museum but the main draw is the musical Glockenspiel.

This wonderful arrangement of 35 bells was created in the 18th Century in Antwerp and shipped over to Salzburg where it took several years to tune and setup correctly (Or to the best of the clock makers ability who installed it!). These amazing musical pieces play at set intervals during the day and perform beautiful renditions of Classical numbers such as the Menuett by Mozart and Tochter Zion by Handel.

Not only can you sit and admire this classical display, but guided tours of the bells and mechanisms are available too.

8. Getreidegasse

This famous and popular street runs for a stretch in the old town and is a standout destination for shopping.

The narrow street has many buildings packed together that stretch far back and have beautiful designs and quaint little windows.

Many passageways and courtyards spring from the main street and create romantic areas to explore, while small details like the wrought iron guild signs give Getreidegasse extra charm and character.

Shops include fine Jewellery, fashion, antiques, traditional costumes, and many boutiques.

There is also a mouth-watering selection of eateries and cafes to enjoy, and several historical buildings and points of interest.

9. Toy Museum

You may think that a Toy Museum is purely for children, well the Salzburg Toy Museum thinks otherwise.

Located close to  Mozartplatz and Mirabell Palace, this fantastical place will provide hours of fun and wonder for children and adults alike.

Split into two sections – The “museum” part contains various historical displays of old toys and games, while the “hands-on” part contains different interactive rides and activities such as a marble run, a mini race-circuit, and an imitation shop where children can learn how an old shop looked and worked.

With seasonal and special themed activities too, you can be guaranteed to always find something different and entertaining in this brilliant museum.

10. Mozartplatz Square

Buried right in the centre of the Old Town, Mozartplatz is a peaceful square dominated by an ornate Bronze statue of the square’s namesake that was unveiled in the presence of his sons in the 1800’s.

Aside from the statue, there is also several museums and attractions directly on the square including the Salzburg Museum, the Traklhaus and The Salzburg Christmas Museum.

Furthermore, just off of the square, are two more adjoining squares that are worth exploring – The Residenplaz and the Domplaz.

11. Hangar 7

This fantastically designed building is not your typical hangar, but does contain many aeronautical artefacts.

Situated next to the main Salzburg Airport (Keeping in with the theme!), the “Hangar” contains several bars, a  cafe, a Michelin Star restaurant, and outdoor lounge, several motorbike and Formula 1 exhibits, and an amazing display of aeroplanes ranging from a Cobra Helicopter to an Alpha Jet Aircraft.

Hangar 7 is just a fun and exciting place to see, not only for the amazing architecture of the hydrofoil dome, but also the well-presented displays and swanky social areas.

12. Mozarts Birthplace

As one of the most visited museums in the world, the birthplace of this legendary Classical Composer is a must see sight in Salzburg.

The city has various museums, monuments and places dedicated to Mozart, but his birthplace is definitely the defining one.

The sight is easily accessible as it is in the Old Town, and a full tour of the displays etc should take around an hour.

The museum contains everything Mozart, from details of his childhood life, to musical instruments he owned and composed his famous symphonies with.

It really is a treat to gain such a detailed insight into Salzburg’s most famous residence life.

13. St. Peter’s Abbey

Not to be confused with Salzburg Cathedral, the Abbey dedicated to St. Peter was originally constructed over old Christian remains in 696 by Saint Rupert and has stood in some form ever since.

This Benedictine Monastery is the oldest in the German-speaking era and also holds the oldest Library in Austria.

The architecture has changed over the years to suit the various fashions of the eras, and now has a combination of Romanesque and Renaissance styles.

A very decorated and ornate religious building, the Abbey also has Catacombs that are open to the public, a lovely Cemetery, The Long gallery which includes many large paintings, and also an extensive Library with over 100,00 volumes (Unfortunately the Library is only accessible by very selective guided tours). If you are interested in historical buildings, St. Peter’s Abbey is an interesting place to visit whilst in the Old Town area of Salzburg.

14. The Eagles Nest

This Third Reich era building was constructed as a mountain getaway high up near the town of Berchtesgaden in Germany and although it is not in Salzburg itself, is easily accessible as a day trip from Austria.

Today the building stands as a restaurant and tourist site and attracts many visitors, not only for the architecture of the building and its historical significance, but mainly for the unbelievable views of the Bavarian Alps.

To reach the summit where the Eagles nest is situated, it takes around two hours on foot from the Obersalzberg area – You will then be rewarded with some stunning views of the mountainous countryside beneath you.

To enter the building/restaurant, you walk through a long 124m underground tunnel and descend into a lift that takes you a further 124m inside.

Although not a well published site, the Eagles Nest is still an interesting place to visit and great for hiking.

Available tour : Eagle’s Nest and Berchtesgaden Tour from Salzburg

15. Gaisberg Mountain

Lying in the eastern area of Salzburg, this mountain is the perfect place to try your hand at some adrenaline filled activities or a hike.

There is a bus link from outside Mirabell Palace so if you do not have a car, the mountain is still accessible.

If you love the outdoors and outdoor activities, Gaisberg will be your dream – There is over 20km of well-marked trails ranging in length and difficulty, and a host of outdoor activities including Paragliding and Mountain Biking.

To experience a different side to Salzburg’s historical centre, get out of the town and explore the expanses of the Gaisberg!

15 Best Things to Do in Salzburg (Austria):

• Salzburg Fortress
• Salzburg Old Town
• Mirabell Palace and Gardens
• Mozart’s Residence
• Hellbrunn Castle/Palace
• Salzburg Cathedral
• Getreidegasse
• Mozartplatz Square
• Mozarts Birthplace
• St. Peter's Abbey
• The Eagles Nest
• Gaisberg Mountain

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Heading to the beautiful country of Austria and wondering what to do in Salzburg? Expect crazy good views, enchanting cobbled streets, captivating historical sites, shooting locations for the popular movie “The Sound of Music”, and — of course — lots and lots of Mozart! If you’re not quite sure what to add to your itinerary, here are my top things to do in Salzburg, Austria, to make your trip magical.

Psst. This post contains affiliate links! Read our disclosure .

Salzburg, Austria, is one of my absolute favorite cities in all the world!

It was one of the first places I visited when traveling abroad back in 2010 and still, over a decade later, it holds a special place in my heart and a top ranking on my fav travel list.

Not only that, it was the one place I studied abroad while attending university! This allowed me to spend quite a bit of time venturing around the city and discovering the best Salzburg highlights (including a few underrated things to do here !).

Tucked away near the Austria and Germany border, Salzburg is surrounded by the mystical Austrian alps and boasts:

✓ Incredible scenery ✓ Drool-worthy architecture ✓ Magical cobbled stone streets that’ll make your heart skip a few beats ✓ Incredibly cool historical sites (like Mozart’s birth house!) ✓ Magnificent castles ✓ A historic old town (which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site!) ✓ And much, much more

Safe to say, it’s a pretty remarkable city for being so small… it only has a population of around 152,000 ! While it’s neighboring city of Munich –just a 2 hour train journey away–has a booming population of around 1.5 million !

Anywho, I’ve got big love for Salzburg and after visiting, I hope you will, too!

If you’re currently planning your trip or are already in the magical city and are not sure what to see in Salzburg, here’s my handy dandy list of things to do, sites to see, and places to visit in Salzburg, Austria!

Table of Contents

BEST THINGS TO DO IN SALZBURG, AUSTRIA

Hohensalzburg fortress.

Wherever you are in the city, you can typically see one massive Salzburg tourist attraction… the incredible Festung Hohensalzburg!

Towering above the city on a huge hill, this castle is one of the largest medieval fortresses in all of Europe and it’s worth a visit.

It’s definitely one of my favorite things to see in Salzburg, as it holds a captivating, long-standing history that goes back to the 11th century. Plus, it also has incredible views of the city from the top!

Psst, by the way, if you only have one day in Salzburg, this is definitely a must-do! You can’t miss out on experiencing one of the most iconic attractions in the city.

Things to know about Festung Hohensalzburg

Opening Hours: Open all year round

• January – April:  9.30 a.m. – 5.00 p.m.
• May – September:  9.00 a.m. – 7.00 p.m
• October – December: 9.30 a.m. – 5.00 p.m.
• Advent weekends & Easter: 9.30 a.m. – 6.00 p.m.

Ticket Prices:

• All-Inclusive ticket : Adults:  €15.50, Children (6 to 15):  €8.80, Family:  €34.40. (Online an all-inclusive ticket for adults is €11.90)
• Basic ticket : Adults:  €12.20, Children (6 to 15):  €7.00, Family:  €27.10.

Click here to see what the tickets include .

Mozarts Geburtshaus

Ever hear of the iconic musician and composer Mozart? I’m sure you have! If not, well… you should definitely still check out his birth house when visiting Salzburg!

The city is extremely proud when it comes to Mozart, and it’s easy to see why! I mean, damn , he created some magnificent compositions.

Anyways, while his face is all over Salzburg, the best place to really get to know him is his geburtshaus, also known as his birth house and one of the most visited museums in all of Austria.

Lasting about 30 minutes to one hour, the tour takes you through his family’s home where you can learn all about his childhood, see his childhood violin, Mozart memorabilia, and more. It’s pretty cool!

Things to know about Mozarts Geburtshaus

Opening Hours:

• Daily: 9 am – 5.30 pm (last entry 5 pm)
• July / August: 8.30 am – 7.00 pm (last entry 6.30 pm)

Admission fees:

• Adults: €11
• Reduced (students & seniors): €9
• Child (6-14): €3.50

Click here to view more info about visiting Mozarts Geburtshaus.

St. Peter’s Cemetery & Abbey

Are you one of those people who are drawn to spooky or eery places, like cemeteries? Because I totally am. (Which is why I loved Edinburgh so much — its cemetery is amazing … which is a very strange thing to brag about.)

Anyways, St. Peter’s Cemetery and Abbey is one of the top things to do in Salzburg, as you literally feel as though you step back through time and through history! Plus, the graveyard is the oldest in Salzburg, so how can you not check it out?

Imagine centuries old gravestones, overgrown flora and fauna that emit a sort of other-worldly beauty, stunning Christian architecture, and a feel as though there are spirits lingering around the corners, waiting to pass through to the other side…

It’s a pretty cool place to explore and one you should add to your list when researching what to do in Salzburg!

Things to know about St. Peter’s Cemetery & Abbey

Opening Hours for the Cemetery:

• Summer 6:30 am-7 pm (winter 6:30 am-5:30 pm)

Opening Hours for the Abbey:

• 8:00 am – 12:00 pm
• 2:30 pm – 6:30 pm

Psst, heading to Munich, Germany, too? Just a quick 2-hour train ride away, here’s my ultimate one day in Munich itinerary !

St. Peter’s Catacombs

Did you know there are catacombs in the city of Salzburg? Dating back to the 11th century or earlier, the catacomb caves serve both as a sanctuary and burial sites for monks.

Set right into the Mönchsberg itself, the caves are somewhat of a magical, yet mysterious Salzburg site to behold. And yet, they’re so tucked away into the corner of the cemetery that most people completely miss out on visiting the catacombs!

The catacombs entrance is located at the graves of Mozart’s sister Nannerl and Michael Haydn. After handing over your entrance fee, you’ll climb 48 stone-carved steps to find the “Gertrauden Chapel,” dating back to 1178. Climb a bit further up, 36 steps in total, and you come upon the “Maximus Chapel.”

This is definitely one of the most unique things to do in Salzburg, Austria, so don’t miss out on it!

Things to know about St. Peter’s Catacombs

• May-September : daily 10 a.m. — 12:30 p.m., 1 p.m. — 6 p.m. 
• October-April : daily 10 a.m. — 12:30 p.m., 1 p.m. — 5 p.m.  (last admission 15 min. before closing) 
• Closed : Jan. 1, Dec. 24-26, Dec. 31
• Adults: €2.00
• Child/Youth (6-18): €1.50
• Students/Seniors: €1.50

Mirabell Palace and Gardens

If you’ve ever watched The Sound of Music, you’ll immediately recognize the Mirabell Palace and Gardens, as the gardens was a huge shooting location for the movie!

Even though I’ve never watched the full movie, the Mirabell Palace and Gardens is still worth a visit due to its beauty and stunning views of the castle. Plus, if you’re tired of walking around the city and need a little break or somewhere to eat a quick lunch, this is a great place to do so!

All around the gardens you’ll find benches just begging you to sit down. So, without any hesitation, sit back, relax, and admire the views.

And, once you’re done chilling out, head into the palace to be absolutely wowed! The Marble Hall is no doubt one of the most beautiful rooms you’ll ever behold. It’s even regarded to be one of the “most beautiful wedding halls in the world.” Who woulda thought?

This is definitely one of the best Salzburg tourist attractions, so don’t pass it up! Plus, it’s free — can you say no to that?

Things to know about the Mirabell Palace and Gardens

• Mirabell Palace and Angel Staircase : Daily from 8 a.m. — 6 p.m.
• Marble Hall : Monday, Wednesday, Thursday: 8 a.m. — 4 p.m. // Tuesday, Friday: 1 p.m. — 4 p.m.
• Mirabell Gardens : Daily from approx. 6 am to dusk.

Admission is free .

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Kloster Nonnberg

Ready for some epic views of the surrounding alps?

While the fortress is awesome for kick-ass views, too, head to the Kloster Nonnberg (aka the Kloster Abbey) to see the surrounding city for a different perspective.

Plus, for a really freakin’ cool experience, jump outta bed and get up with the sun to hear the nuns singing in the church. At 6:45 a.m. everyday, the nuns fill the church of Nonnberg Priory to sing enchanting Gregorian Chorals.

Going off that, this convent became an international star due to its feature in the popular film, The Sound of Music . It is here that Maria von Kutschera (the real person who inspired the film) came to join the Benedictine Sisterhood and was sent by her abbess to watch over the Von Trapp children.

If you’re a fan of The Sound of Music , Kloster Nonnberg should definitely be on your Salzburg bucket list!

Things to know about the Kloster Nonnberg

• How to get there: The convent can be reached either from the Kaigasse by climbing the steps of the so-called Nonnbergstiege, or via a narrow lane from Nonntal.
• Opening Hours: Open daily from 6:45 am in the morning until dusk (until 7 pm in summer). Keep in mind it is closed during worship hours.

Stiftsbäckerei St. Peter

Interested in having the best fresh baked bread of your life? Head over to the Stiftsbäckerei St. Peter and you won’t be disappointed.

Seriously. I like to consider myself sort of a bread connoisseur and oh em gee, having a warm, fresh baked roll right outta the oven… HEAVEN!

For just €2, you can get one of these fresh baked rolls for yourself. And as you’re munching on this beautiful bread gift from the bread gods, you can take a stroll through the St. Peter’s Cemetary and Abbey!

Warm, fresh baked bread and ghosts? Win-win in my books. This is hands down one of my favorite places to visit in Salzburg!

Things to know about the Stiftsbäckerei St. Peter

• Sunday, Monday, & Wednesday: Closed
• Tuesday, Thursday, & Friday: 7:15 a.m. — 5:30 p.m.
• Saturday: 7:15 a.m. — 1 p.m.

Want to explore outside Salzburg’s city limits? Check out this highly-rated Full-Day Bavarian Mountains Tour !

Salzburg Cathedral (Dom zu Salzburg)

One of the most beautiful buildings in all of Salzburg, the Salzburg Cathedral boast a magnificent dome, two soaring towers, stunning Baroque architecture, unbelievable artwork on the inside, and a magical feel that’ll leave you astounded.

No doubt, strolling through the Salzburg Cathedral and all its glory is one of my favorite things to see in Salzburg, Austria. It’s beauty will take your breath away! Don’t miss it.

Psst — here’s a little tip! Don’t forget to head down into the crypts! The stairs going down are a bit hidden but it’s totally worth it. Such an eery, yet cool, atmosphere!

Hellbrunn Palace

While Hellbrunn Palace holds some rich history and some beautiful Baroque architecture… it’s mainly known and visited for it’s exciting and thrilling trick fountains!

For more than 400 years, Hellbrunn Palace has entertained visitors from around the world with it’s magical and mystical water fountains! As your guided tour through the Hellbrunn grounds takes you past the beautiful greens, lush trees, and flowing fountains… beware! You might be sprayed or spurted with some water!

Hellbrunn mountain is known for it’s abundant water sources, which is why this palace highlights its fountains!

If you want to know more about Hellbrunn and its trick fountains, click here.

Salzburg Museum

Interested in learning some history about this beautiful city? Head over to the Salzburg Museum to learn all about it.

The museum has great collections of archaeological items, architectural documentation, photography, paintings, musical instruments, historical weaponry, coins, medals, monetary tokens, sculptures, toys, folklore, and more!

It’s definitely one of the more unique things to do in Salzburg, as many people don’t visit the museum.

Things to know about the Salzburg Museum

• Tuesday to Sunday: 9 a.m. — 5 p.m.
• Young People (16-26): €4
• Child (6-15): €3

To learn more about the Salzburg Museum, click here .

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Walk the Salzach

Need a little break from all the Salzburg sightseeing? Take a stroll along the Salzach river for some relaxation, as well as some breathtaking views of the city.

From the Salzach, and it’s bridges, you can take in the Salzburg city skyline — it’s perfect for pictures!

And for an even more remarkable experience, walk the Salzach as dusk. Viewing the city with a sunset behind it is beautiful!

Getreidegasse

If you’re sick of historical and architectural sites… firstly — how dare you?!

Secondly, after spending a good amount of time in Salzburg… I understand!

Anyways, if you are ready for a change of Salzburg attractions, head down the Getreidegasse for some fantastic shopping! Not only is this little street packed with cool, quaint shops, it’s absolutely gorgeous.

Smack dab in the heart of Salzburg’s Old Town, the Getreidegasse has an unmistakable charm you’ll likely not forget. Even cooler, a good number of the buildings have dates on them representing when they were built!

So while you thought you could escape the history of Salzburg for some shopping, you’ll still get a bit of it while strolling down the Getreidegasse!

Stroll Through the Markets

If you’re looking for a more local experience, head down to the University Cathedral square to stroll through some of the markets!

Every Monday through Saturday, a quaint market, called the Grünmarkt, opens its stalls and beckons visitors to view and admire its fresh fruit and veggies, as well as unique cheeses, treats, breads, pastries, and more. I love this market, as you can sometimes find quirky gifts for family and friends!

Curious to see what websites I use to book cheap flights and accommodations, my must-have packing essentials, the gear I use to shoot awesome photos, and more? Take a look at my favorite travel resources and recommendations page!

As you can imagine, when I was studying abroad as a young gal, I tried and tested a good number of local pubs! And man, oh man, while Salzburg has fantastic things to do in the day, it also has a crazy good nightlife.

Here are a few local pubs and breweries you can spend a couple hours at in the evenings (or day, no judgement here):

• O’Malley’s Irish Pub (my personal favorite, as well as the favorite of my university pals, as it’s typically Salzburg university students here).
• Augustiner Bräu (another personal favorite; this is a massive beer hall and beer garden where you can find a beautiful blend of both locals and tourists).
• Augustiners Stieglkeller (a local brewery in Salzburg; serves up awesome Radlers). While they don’t have a great bar area, you can definitely drink and eat in their traditional Austrian restaurant.

Salzburger Marionettentheater

With a proud spot on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List, the Salzburger Marionettentheater is one of the more unique things to do in Salzburg!

Although they may be tiny performers, they’ve got a big crowd and following who love them! Salzburg’s marionette theater goes back 100 years and at this opera house you can expect a full-blown performance that’ll knock your socks off.

Featuring over 500 characters and a talented wooden “cast”, each and every performer, costume, and set is hand-crafted with love (as well as some mad skills). Don’t miss out on visiting the marionettentheater for a wow-ing show!

Click here to visit their website and check out showtimes.

Kapuzinerkloster

If you’re searching for a panoramic view of Salzburg that’ll take your breath away, look no further than the Kapuzinerkloster. While this is actually the Capuchin Monastery (in english), which you may or may not want to enter, the outdoor views are why you made the climb up here.

I’m not even going to try to explain to you why this place is so spectacular. I mean, come on! Just look at the photo above — why you should visit this place speaks for itself.

There you have it, folks! My ultimate list of the best things to do in Salzburg, Austria. After visiting this beautiful city 4 different times, as well as living here, I can wholeheartedly say this smaller city packs in some epic sightseeing and attractions.

Are you planning to visit Salzburg, Austria? If you have any questions for me, don’t hesitate to stick ’em in the comments!

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ALKA MITTAL

Hey Sophie, This is Alka Mittal from India. It seems Salzburg visit is a Must. What about some tips on spa sauna and hot springs experience in Salzburg. Please share. Cheers.

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Essential tips every Salzburg local knows – and that every visitor should, too

Jul 9, 2022 • 11 min read

Pack warm clothes if you’re visiting Salzburg in winter, when the city is cold, snowy – and magical Calin Stan / Shutterstock

Salzburg is a beautiful, vibrant city, a Unesco World Heritage Site with an astonishingly rich cultural heritage.

The birthplace of Mozart, it’s also the gateway to the lovely Salzkammergut region, with its fabulous lakes and mountains. The city also plays host to one of the world’s greatest classical music festivals. While it’s marvelously easy to feel at home here soon after you arrive, familiarizing yourself with the lay of this Alpine land ahead of time will help you make most of your visit.

Accordingly, here are 12 things every Salzburg local knows – and that first-time visitors should, too.

What to do in Salzburg (including in winter, when it rains and at night)

Salzburg has some unmissable museums and sights – Mozart’s Birth House , the DomQuartier (comprising the Cathedral and former Residence of the Prince-Archbishops of Salzburg, with its magnificent state rooms), the Hohensalzburg Fortress  and the truly wonderful 17th-century  Mirabell Palace and Gardens , to name just a few. 

But the real star of the show is the city itself: Salzburg has a beautifully preserved old baroque town center, which simply oozes atmosphere and charm at every corner. So make sure you allow time to just wander down streets like Goldgasse and Getreidegasse, and alongside the River Salzach. If it rains, duck into a cafe to enjoy some seriously good coffee and heavenly cakes, or spend some time in one of Salzburg’s rich museums.

Festivals about in Salzburg – the world-famous  Salzburg Festival in July and August, of course, but also  Mozart Week (on and around the great composer’s birthday every January), the Easter Festival and the Whitsun Festival , Jazz in the City in October, and the big Christmas market in December. You can also do any number of day trips from Salzburg.  Hallstatt and the Eagle’s Nest are two of the most popular, while a slew of other beckon. In particular, the Salzkammergut region has endless lakes to swim in and an almost limitless scope for hiking.  

How long should I spend in Salzburg?

Salzburg is a wonderfully interesting and enjoyable city to spend time in at any time of year. We recommend at least three days in town to do it justice and experience it at a relaxed, leisurely pace. Stay a few days longer if you plan to explore the region through day trips. 

Is Salzburg expensive?

Salzburg is one of the more expensive cities in Austria , though not more so than many other well-known cities in western Europe, and still considerably less than Paris or London. You can find cheaper but still high-quality accommodation if you look outside the city center. Restaurant prices vary (obviously), yet you can eat very well in Salzburg without breaking the bank. 

If you visit outside the high season (July or August, coinciding with the Salzburg Festival) you’ll find accommodation prices decline. Entry tickets to museums and other sights are quite reasonable year-round, and a few free walking tours offer an economical way to get to know the city. Buying a Salzburg Card is generally another good way to save money in Salzburg.

The city center is small and easy to navigate on foot, so there’s no need to fork out on taxi fares; a reliable bus service to and from the airport is quite cheap. When you do need to get a local bus or trolleybus, buying tickets from the machine at the bus stop rather from the driver saves you a bit. Public transport makes popular day trips from Salzburg easy and quite cheap – and don’t forget that children under 6 travel free on trains in Austria, and for half price up to the age of 15. 

Open rehearsals by the accomplished music students at Mozarteum University are free to attend. You can also get cheap tickets if you plan ahead. Seats with a slightly restricted view for operas at the Salzburg State Theater cost less than €20 (US$20.80), and in January you can try to book standing tickets for concerts at the Salzburg Festival as soon as reservation requests open.

What to pack for Salzburg

Summer temperatures in Salzburg are pleasantly warm. Shorts, a skirt or summer dress, and short-sleeved shirts or T-shirts are the order of the day between June and the September, when the temperature reaches an average high of around 20–24°C (68–75°F). You might still get some cooler days in the summer, so pack long pants and a lightweight fleece, too. 

Having something a little smarter for concerts (including the Salzburg Festival) will help you blend in. When visiting churches, you should not wear clothes that are too revealing. Don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses and a sun hat, particularly if you’re doing summer hiking. 

Definitely bring a refillable water bottle: the tap water is fine to drink, so there’s no need to buy disposable plastic ones. A swimsuit is definitely a good idea in the summer, as Salzburg and the surrounding region offer a huge number of places to swim, from gorgeous lakes to sparkling rivers . Salzburg gets quite a bit of rainfall throughout the year, including in the summer, so you won’t regret bringing a lightweight, packable waterproof jacket or small umbrella. Winters are cold in Salzburg, so pack warm gloves and a hat, a winter jacket and an extra fleece layer. With plenty of snow on the ground in the winter months, warm, waterproof boots are always a good idea. Plus, a good pair of hiking boots will give you the option of doing some winter walks or snowshoeing in the surrounding hills and mountains.

Does Salzburg get snow?

Yes. On the edge of the Alps, winters are cold, snowy – and magical. The first snow typically arrives in November (you can expect it in October in the surrounding mountains), becoming heavier in December and continuing through to the end of March. You might even get some snow as late as April. January and February are the coldest months, with temperatures around or more likely a few degrees below freezing.

Booking tickets for the Salzburg Festival 

An annual tradition since 1920, the Salzburg Festival is the city’s biggest cultural event, as well as one of the world’s greatest classical-music festivals. Since it’s also extremely popular, you should book tickets as far in advance as possible. 

While bookings for festival tickets open in January, tickets won’t be confirmed until early April. There is no guarantee until this point that you’ve actually got tickets, since festival patrons have priority, with all other tickets allocated after that. (Note that you won’t have to pay until your tickets are confirmed.) Early April is also when direct ticket sales open – at least, for those few seats still available. 

Ticket prices can be extremely high, but you can find cheaper ones if you look for standing tickets or ones with a slightly restricted view – though these tend to sell out fast. Accommodation in Salzburg during the festival (mid July to the end of August) also tends to be booked out or come at a premium – again, book as far in advance as possible. 

How to get from the airport to the city center by bus

Buses 2 and 10 run every 10 or 20 minutes between the airport and Salzburg Hauptbahnhof. The journey time is around 20 minutes, and the fare (€2.50/$2.60) is much less than you’d pay for a taxi. Just walk out of the main airport doors, go straight across the car park and the bus stop is on your right. Buy tickets from the machine or from the driver.

Tips for using the Salzburg S-Bahn

Salzburg’s S-Bahn rail network is the fastest way to take longer journeys across the city (for short journeys, walking or taking a bus is more convenient). There are four lines plus one extension that cover the city and its suburbs and even spill over the border into Germany. Trains tend to run every hour, with low-entry doors for wheelchair users; you can even take bikes on them (for an extra charge). Buy tickets from machines at the station.

How to catch a bus or trolleybus in Salzburg

Salzburg is covered by a comprehensive network of bus and trolleybus routes, most of which run every 10 minutes or so during the day and evenings. Buying tickets from the ticket machines at bus stops is cheaper than buying them from the driver (€2.10/$2.20 as opposed to €3/$3.15 for a single adult fare), or you can buy a 24-hour ticket (which you’ll need to stamp on the bus on your initial journey). Bus and trolleybus journeys are also covered by the Salzburg Card. 

Finding your way around Salzburg Hauptbahnhof

Most visitors to Salzburg will use the Hauptbahnhof (main railway station) at some point during their stay. You’ll find an  ÖBB (Austrian Railways) office where you can buy tickets, as well as ticket machines, an ATM, toilets, a couple of cafes and a very useful Spar supermarket. Escalators lead up to the platforms from the concourse, and there are lifts for step-free access. 

The station has two main exits – one opening onto Südtiroler Platz, where you’ll find the local bus and trolleybus station, the other leading onto Lastenstraße, from where it’s a 20-minute walk to the old town. 

Bike and e-bike rentals in Salzburg

Salzburg is a great city to explore by bike. Cycle lanes abound (but not on all streets), with dedicated cycle paths alongside both sides of the Salzach and elsewhere. There’s a list of charging stations for e-bikes on the Salzburg Tourist Office website . You can rent a bike or e-bike at several places, including aVelo . 

Is Salzburg an accessible city?

Accessibility in Salzburg is generally very good. Most buses have low-entry doors and a ramp for wheelchair users, and at Salzburg Hauptbahnhof platforms can be accessed by elevator. Download the free SalzburgMobil app (for iOS or Android ), which has live bus times as well as indications regarding wheelchair access. Traffic levels are low within the old town itself, and while cobblestones are fairly widespread they tend to be relatively unobtrusive. 

Many of Salzburg’s museums provide step-free access and are accessible to wheelchair users – though the historic Mozart’s Birth House is not among them, unfortunately. The Tourist Office website has a list of wheelchair-accessible hotels . 

What to wear at the Salzburg Festival

Formal dress isn’t required for the Salzburg Festival, but many people do dress up for performances – so bringing something to wear which feels a little more swank than shorts and a T-shirt can be a good idea if you’ve been lucky enough to get tickets.

Do I need to tip in Salzburg?

It’s usual to leave a tip in restaurants and cafes in Salzburg and elsewhere in Austria; in fact, not doing so might imply you were dissatisfied with the service in some way. While how much you want to leave is up to you, 10% is a good rule of thumb.

Should you get a Salzburg Card?

A Salzburg Card  includes free access to museums and other sights in the city, as well as free use of buses and trolleybuses (though not the S-Bahn), and comes in durations of 24, 48 and 72 hours. Some hotels offer packages that include a three-night stay and 72-hour Salzburg Card – something worth considering when you’re looking where to stay. You can buy the card online, download a digital version on your phone and start using it as soon as you arrive, or pick up a plastic version at the hotel reception or from tourist information offices. 

Day trips to Hallstatt and across the Salzkammergut

One of the most popular day trips from Salzburg is a visit to the picture-perfect (and Unesco-listed) lakeside town of Hallstatt and its historic salt mine. It’s easy enough to do on public transport, but popular enough that the following tips will probably prove useful. The 150 bus to Bad Ischl leaves from Salzburg Hauptbahnhof. While you can buy your ticket from the driver, it’s worth getting your tickets online, which means you’ll still get on the bus even if it’s full (which it often is). 

At Bad Ischl, take a train going south toward Hallstatt and Obertraun. Hallstatt station is on the opposite side of the lake from the town itself, and connects to a small passenger ferry to the village. There’s a ticket office and ticket machines for trains at the station in Bad Ischl; at Hallstatt train station there’s just a machine, often with a queue. Since you face a fine if you get on the train without a ticket, it’s safest to buy your train tickets ahead of time.

Though Hallstatt is deservedly popular, there are literally dozens of other gorgeous places in Salzkammergut which you can get to just as easily from Salzburg, whether for a swim in a lake, a rewarding hike or epic mountain views. 

Is Salzburg safe?

Austria has one of the lowest crime rates in the world, and Salzburg is a very safe city to travel in. Nevertheless, use common sense and take precautions as you would in any other city. Don’t leave bags open or unattended, avoid leaving your wallet or camera on the table at a cafe and so on.

In case of an emergency...

We hope you never need to consult this section. But if you do need emergency services anywhere in Austria, call 112 (the European Emergency Number, which you can also call from a locked phone). An operator will then direct you to the relevant emergency service.

You can also call the emergency service you require directly: the police by dialing 133, an ambulance at 144, an emergency doctor at 141, fire services at 122, mountain rescue at 140 and traffic emergencies at 120.

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19 Top Tourist Attractions in Salzburg, Austria

By Carl Austin · Last updated on May 4, 2024

One of the most stunning cities in all Austria, Salzburg is set in a picture-perfect spot amidst the Alps. Besides its beautiful architecture, old town and alpine setting, all its sites relating to The Sound of Music film only add to its already considerable charm.

Once known as the ‘Rome of the North’, the city was completely transformed in the fourteenth century under the rule of the influential Prince-Archbishop Wolf Dietrich. Since then, its atmospheric Altstadt has instead been famed for its picturesque and well-preserved Italian Baroque-style buildings.

Map of Salzburg

Lying alongside the scenic Salzach river amidst snow-capped mountains, its historic heart contains loads of elegant churches, squares and palaces. Exploring the handsome hilltop castle, which dominates the city skyline, is one of the most popular things to do in Salzburg while world-class concerts and operas are held in its countless theaters below.

It’s possible to see a few of the attractions in Salzburg on a quick day trip from Munich or Vienna, but spending a few days allows visitors to take in more sights and soak in the atmosphere of this delightful city.

Although now synonymous with the famous musical starring Julie Andrews, the city is also the birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. With melodies ringing in the air and romantic views and cityscapes wherever you go, it is no wonder Salzburg is one of the country’s main tourist destinations.

19. Mozarts Wohnhaus

A fascinating place to visit, Mozarts Wohnhaus lies just across the Salzach river from the older house he was born in. Actually, destroyed during the Second World War, the renowned composer’s residence was rebuilt and opened as a museum in 1996.

From 1773 to 1780, he and his family lived here in the ‘Dance Master’s House’ along Makartplatz. Their airy eight-room apartment now has a handful of instruments used by him for you to peruse. Some original portraits and music sheets are also on show.

Although it is quite small in comparison with the other museum dedicated to Mozart, music lovers will still appreciate its unique artifacts and exhibits. These also present more information on Wolfgang’s family and their lives in Salzburg.

18. Alter Markt Square

Just a short walk from Mozarts Wohnhaus is the attractive Alter Markt Square which has acted as the center of the city for centuries. Enclosed by pretty pastel-colored townhouses, it is located right next to Residenzplatz and the Salzburger Dom.

Set at the foot of the castle, not far from the riverfront, the old square has served as a market and meeting place since the thirteenth century. Lined by loads of stylish cafes and chic tourist shops, its charming cobblestones also contain the ornate St. Florian Fountain. Erected in 1488, its striking statue, coat of arms and marble steps make for some fine photos.

Asides from taking in its architecture and ambience, you can see the city’s narrowest house and an old apothecary. There is also the classic Viennese-style Cafe Tomaselli coffee house to stop by and fun markets to explore.

17. Stiegl Brauwelt

Other than seeing the city’s attractions and scenic surroundings, one of the main things to do in Salzburg s visit its top-class breweries. At the historic Stiegl Brauwelt just outside of the center, there are terrific tours and tastings for you to enjoy.

One of the most popular and commonly found beers in Austria, Stiegl has remarkably been family-owned since 1492. On their very well-run tours, you’ll learn all about their history and how beer production has changed over the years. In addition to exploring its modern brewhouse and bottling hall, there is a 270-degree film to see that covers the entire process from start to finish.

At the end, you can sit and sample some of the flavorful beers produced here in its brewpub or restaurant. There is also some tasty Austrian cuisine to try and a lovely beer garden to relax in outside.

16. St. Sebastian’s Church & Cemetery

Back over on the more modern side of town, not far from Mozart’s Residence, is the stunning St. Sebastian’s Church. It and its cemetery are wonderful to wander around with many famous historical figures having been buried here.

Instantly recognizable from its onion-dome, the Late Baroque-style church was built in 1753 to replace an early edition that had become derelict. Although a devastating fire later destroyed many of its artworks, its interior still boasts a beautiful high altar.

The real highlight however is its gorgeous graveyard which was designed to look like an Italian campo santo in 1595. Alongside its exquisite arcades, you can find majestic monuments and markings to Mozart’s father and wife among many others.

At the center of its immaculate, green grounds lies the elaborate St. Gabriel’s Chapel. The final resting place of the important Prince-Archbishop of Salzburg, Wolf Dietrich, the mausoleum really is an architectural masterpiece. For us, St. Sebastian’s easily rivaled the more popular St. Peter’s due to its cool carvings and rather eerie graves.

15. Getreidegasse

Getreidegasse, which translates as Grain Lane, is Salzburg’s most famous shopping street. Located in Old Town, Getreidegasse is filled with high narrow buildings that contain shops, boutiques and restaurants serving the city’s specialties, including mouthwatering desserts.

Some buildings have guild signs that indicate the type of work that took place here in centuries past. Jewelry and traditional costumes are among the popular items on shoppers’ lists. Note that No. 9 Getreidegasse is where Mozart was born. Visitors should take time to explore the passageways and courtyards off this street as there are even more enticing shops to separate visitors from their Euros.

14. Franziskanerkirche

Another hugely interesting church for you to check out is that of Franziskanerkirche (Franciscan Church) in the Salzburger Altstadt. Lying right next to St. Peter’s Abbey and the Domplatz, it has a fantastic vault ceiling, tall bell tower and intricately crafted high altar to admire.

While the first church to stand here was established in the eighth century, the current one dates to 1450. Now exhibiting an arresting mix of architectural styles, its slender steeple and steep roof are visible for many miles around.

Inside is the real showstopper though as its glorious Gothic vault ceiling is supported by soaring pillars that tower above its glimmering gold-decked altar. Its choir also has nine Baroque-style chapels to stroll about, all home to refined religious paintings and sculptures.

13. Haus der Natur

Towards the end of the Altstadt, alongside the Salzach river, is the equally impressive Haus der Natur. At the state-of-the-art science center, you can learn about everything from dinosaurs and technology to anatomy, evolution and our universe.

Founded in 1924, its interactive exhibits now cover eight levels across two buildings. Whereas some rooms focus on Arctic ecosystems or those of the rainforest, others look at life back in prehistoric times. You can also examine orbiting planets from up close or ogle at its amazing dinosaur models and sparkling spaceships.

Particularly popular are the museum’s innumerable aquaria and the glass tanks of its reptile zoo. Amidst its colourful coral reefs and verdant foliage, guests can spy shoals of swirling fish, live snakes and lizards.

12. Take a Sound of Music Tour

As the city is synonymous with the film, you really must take a Sound of Music Tour when in town. As well as taking you about all the main shooting locations, your guide provides in-depth info on the family and filming process.

Following the footsteps of the von Trapp family, it visits both the Mirabell Garden and Hellbrunn Palace among other stops. Here you’ll see where Maria and all the children danced and sang ‘Do-Re-Mi’ alongside other singing scenes. You can then explore the old Nonnberg Abbey where she served as a novice and drive out to the delightful Lake District nearby.

Options include not just brilliant bus and bike tours around Salzburg but walking ones and horse-drawn carriage rides too. Whichever one you opt for, you’re certain to see a lot of the city and learn everything there is to know about the magical musical.

11. Kapuzinerberg

Travelers with an interest in pre-historic sites may enjoy a visit to Kapuzinerberg. Sitting on a hill overlooking the Salzach River, human habitation of Kapuzinerberg dates back to the Neolithic period.

The hill is not fully developed, and small wild animals may be seen roaming the gardens and grounds. Kapuzinerberg is best known for its Way of the Cross chapels that tell the story of the Passion of Christ as they lead up the hill. The route ends with an impressive depiction of the crucifixion. A monastery, towers from an old fortress and lush gardens add to the site’s beauty.

10. Mozarts Geburtshaus

If you want even more insight into the life of the musical maestro, make sure to head to Mozart’s Geburtshaus. Much larger than the other museum dedicated to the famed composer, it lies along the lively Getreidegasse shopping street.

Now painted bright yellow, it was here in the twelfth century house that Wolfgang was born on January 27th, 1756. Up until the family moved in 1773, he spent much of his childhood in their apartment on the third floor. One room has since been restored to how it would have looked back during his lifetime.

Turned into a museum in 1880, the big building also contains unique old certificates, letters and memorabilia that document his life in the city. The highlight is of course its expertly crafted historic instruments, including a violin and clavichord actually played by Mozart. We ended up really enjoying all its well-done displays and even snapped some great pics with the museum’s large Playmobil model of Mozart!

9. Residenzplatz

Residenzplatz, or Residence Square, is located in the heart of Old Town Salzburg, This magnificent square is surrounded by archbishop residences, Salzburg Cathedral, the Old Residence and townhouses now filled with shops and eateries.

It is also the place where visitors can hop a horse0drawn carriage for a ride through the streets of Old Town. A fountain, said to be Salzburg’s most beautiful, punctuates the square. This unique fountain sports snorting horses, giants and dolphins. Many public events, including Salzburg’s Christmas fair, take place in the square today.

8. Hellbrunn Palace

Visitors to Hellbrunn Palace should wear clothes that dry quickly. That’s because the trick fountains the palace is famous for spray water on visitors.

One of the most famous family attractions in Salzburg, this early 17th century Renaissance palace was originally built as a pleasurable place where archbishops could relax for a day. Since they came only for a day, the palace has no bedrooms, though it was intended as a summer residence.

Sound of Music fans may recognize the pavilion where Liesl sang “Sixteen Going on Seventeen” to Rolfe, though it was located at another palace when the movie was filmed.

7. Hangar 7

Owned by Red Bull founder Dietrich Mateschitz, Hangar 7 is a stylish, hangar-inspired museum with a collection of historical airplanes, helicopters and Formula One racing cars. It is one of those museums that is just as intriguing from the outside as it is from the inside.

The wing-like dome of the museum and adjoining cylindrical towers are built of a latticework of steel supporting a glass shell. The sleek, modern structure contrasts sharply with the Alps rising in the backdrop. Hangar 7 is also home to the Michelin starred restaurant Ikarus as well as two bars and a lounge.

6. Cable Car to Untersberg

For the most incredible views imaginable of Salzburg and the surrounding Alps, make sure to take the cable car up Untersberg. Set just southwest of the city, the legendary mount has all kinds of fun outdoor activities for you to enjoy.

Easily reached by bus, the funicular’s cable cars whisk guests up to its summit in just over eight minutes. From St. Leonard station in Gartenau, you slowly rise over 1,300 meters to Geiereck’s jagged peak, high up amidst the clouds.

On the way, you bask in breathtaking panoramas of Hohensalzburg Castle watching out over Salzburg and the Rositten Valley. At its 1,806-meter-high peak, there is some magnificent hiking and biking to be had amongst its alpine landscapes.

5. St. Peter’s Abbey

One of our favorite places in the city, St. Peter’s Abbey, its cemetery and catacombs are nestled right at the foot of the fortress. Located alongside a sheer rock face, all its grand rooms and gardens are very interesting and attractive to wander around.

Long the spiritual heart of Salzburg, it was founded in the seventh century though the current church ‘only’ dates to 1130. Later redecorated in a Rococo-style, it contains several exquisite altars and the tombs of both Mozart’s sister and Johann Michael Hayden. There is also a very elegant library to see, though this is unfortunately only accessible on rare occasions.

Perhaps even more impressive however are the intricate, iron-wrought graves in the lush green cemetery outside. You can also visit the cool catacombs and chapels that are carved in the rugged rock right by the abbey. Coupled with its unique setting, look and atmosphere, we thought this made St. Peter’s very special to visit.

4. Salzburger Dom

Rising dramatically above the Altstadt are the big bronze dome and two tall towers of the Salzburger Dom. One of the city’s most important places of worship, the basilica boasts loads of lovely architecture and twinkling artistic treasures.

Originally erected in 774, it was later rebuilt in the seventeenth century under the rule of Wolf Dietrich von Raitenau. Once past its arresting Baroque facade with its ornate gates, portals and statues, you can explore the cathedral’s immense interior. Besides an imposing organ, there are fine frescoes to see beneath its dome and the baptismal font where Mozart was baptized.

The Domplatz in front also contains the marvelous Marian Column with the city’s fun Christmas market taking place here in wintertime. The Cathedral Museum is also well worth checking out if you like old religious artworks.

3. Mirabell Palace and Gardens

Just one of Salzburg’s many unmissable tourist attractions is the magical Mirabell Palace and its gorgeous gardens.

The building’s front is plain compared to other Salzburg palaces, but visitors will find lush gardens, featuring statues of mythological people, on the grounds. Is pretty flowerbeds and fountains make for some absolutely phenomenal photos, with the charming castle looming in the background.

Again, built by the Prince-Archbishop in 1606, the vast Neoclassical-style palace was designed for his beloved courtesan Salome Alt. It was later rebuilt in Baroque and Neoclassical styles, and served as the 1815 birthplace of the future King Otto of Greece.

Highlights include the amazing ‘Angel Staircase’ which is adorned with dozens of cute cherubs and the grand, gold-decked Marble Hall. At the palace, you can also hear Mozart concerts almost everyday – over 200 years since he performed there himself.

Outside though amidst its terraced gardens where the famous musical was filmed is where visitors spend most of their time. Asides from the distinctive Pegasus Fountain around which Maria and the children danced, there are some divine viewpoints to see too. We really loved ambling about the blooming gardens, snapping pictures with the castle and church spires in the distance.

2. Hohensalzburg Castle

Sprawling across a huge hilltop, the spectacular Hohensalzburg Castle completely dominates the city’s skyline. After a steep climb up either on foot or via its funicular, you can explore its countless courtyards, museums and sturdy fortifications.

The largest, fully preserved castle in Central Europe, the colossal complex’s current appearance mostly dates to the 1500s. Perched atop Festungsberg Hill, it acted as an important seat of power for the Prince-Archbishops of Salzburg for centuries. As well as seeing all its sumptuous stately rooms and their fine furnishings, guests can walk around its old dungeons, towers and battlements.

Other than the glittering Golden Hall, the antiquated Salzburg Bull organ is another of its main sights. The castle’s museums also house armour and weapons while exhibits shed more light on the lives of the Prince-Archbishops. From up here, you can also enjoy panoramic views of the city, old town and endless mountains all around you.

1. Salzburger Altstadt

An absolute treat to stroll around, the atmospheric streets of Salzburger Altstadt are undoubtedly the highlight of most people’s time in town. Lined by lots of beautiful old buildings, its grand squares contain most of the city’s main sights.

Overlooked by the hulking great Hohensalzburg Castle, the historic heart of the city straddles the banks of the Salzach river. As Salzburg was once the capital of a very wealthy independent state, eye-catching churches, squares and merchants’ houses all sprung up over the centuries.

Getting lost amidst the narrow lanes of the Judengasse before again emerging at one of the Altstadt’s picturesque squares like Alter Markt or Residenzplatz is a wonderful way to spend the day. Along the lively Getreidegasse, you can shop til you drop while taking in its fetching facades and wrought-iron guild signs. Here too you’ll find some excellent art galleries, chic boutiques and, of course, Mozart’s birthplace.

As the cathedral, castle and St. Sebastian’s Church are all found here, not to mention Mirabell Palace and St. Peter’s Abbey, it really is the heart and soul of life in town. An enchanting place, it made Salzburg and its scenic surroundings our favorite stop in all Austria.

Best Time to Visit Salzburg

As the weather is warmest and its mountain landscapes are at their most magnificent, June through September is the most popular time to visit Salzburg. Temperatures range from 19 to 23°C (66 to 73°F) with the world-famous Salzburg Festival taking place in July and August.

As the operas, plays and concerts draw such huge numbers, the city’s hotels and restaurants are at their busiest and most expensive. Once you escape the center though, lovely lakes and mountains have loads of epic outdoor activities to enjoy. These months do see the most amount of rainfall however, with rain at least a little on 13 to 19 days on average.

If you want to avoid the crowds, high prices and rain (well, the worst of it at least), then the spring and autumn seasons may be better options. While April and May see the flowers back blooming, October’s autumnal foliage is every bit as enchanting.

Outside of these months is the low season with average temperatures dropping to just 2 to 8°C (35 to 46°F). The expectation is December when many visit for its Christmas market or to ski in the nearby mountains.

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The Definitive List of 100+ Things to Do in Salzburg

Explorer’s note: Some links in this post are affiliate links. If you make a booking through them, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps us keep providing tours and top-notch travel advice.

Salzburg is small. You could see the main sights in a day or even half a day. However, there are many more things to do in Salzburg than just the essentials. We need the details to get the big picture.

Therefore, this article is the antithesis of an itinerary for Salzburg in one day. The point of this article is that it would take forever to work through everything on this list.

Day trips are not even included yet. Only the things to do in Salzburg city are included in this article.

All of the activities are in the center, most of them in the old town, and most of them are within walking distance no matter where you stay. The activities I present are of general interest. No vegan restaurants, no river surfing, and none of the other alternative interest activities are included.

They are for the average tourist.

The experiences I want you to have are experiences unique to Salzburg.

Why you might want to consider a Salzburg Card

In case you want to go all-in on sightseeing, there’s nothing better than a Salzburg Card. The Salzburg card covers Museums, public transport, the fortress, Hellbrunn Palace, a cable car, and more on a fixed price.

As long as you visit two paid attractions, the Salzburg Card pays for itself and you get heaps of extra activities for free. 

I will link an article with more information about the Salzburg card at the end of this article.

Must do Things in Salzburg

1. take a look at the marble hall in mirabell castle.

The Marble Hall and the staircase leading to the Marble Hall in Mirabell Palace are the only part of the Palace’s inside available to visit. The rest of the Palace is dedicated to the city government. To get to the Marble Hall, you enter the Palace and take the beautiful baroque staircase to the first floor. If there is no wedding happening, the marble hall is open and free to look at.

However, weddings happen often because the Marble Hall is considered one of the most beautiful wedding venues in the world. Therefore, more than a thousand weddings take place every year, but you will notice and have to come back later or find something else to do if there is a wedding going on.

Furthermore, there are tourist concerts at the Marble Hall in the evening.

2. Take the Funicular to the Hohensalzburg Fortress

Included in the Salzburg Card

If there is only one paid thing you do in Salzburg, let it be the Hohensalzburg Fortress! Salzburg’s fortress is the best-preserved fortress in Europe, and the building gives Salzburg (salt fortress) its name and offers the best view over the city.

The alternative to the Funicular is a hike, which I can recommend. However, the funicular ride is fun, only takes a minute, and is included if you have a Salzburg Card. If you didn’t buy a Salzburg Card and have to pay for the ride and the fortress, it’s only a few bucks more than the fortress would cost anyway.

3. Walkthrough Saint Peters Cemetery

Saint Peters Cemetery is the oldest cemetery in Salzburg and one of the oldest, if not the oldest cemetery in Europe. It has been used as a cemetery since Salzburg was founded in 696 and probably even before. With the arcaded crypts on the side of the hill and the ornate tombs, it may be one of the most beautiful cemeteries you’ll ever see.

Spoiler alert:  If you visit Saint Peters Cemetery, it might seem familiar from the Sound of Music. The scene at the end when the Trapps escape and hide behind the graves was actually supposed to be shot at Saint Peter’s Cemetery. However, they were not allowed to film at the cemetery, so they rebuilt it in a Hollywood set.

4. Visit the Salzburg Cathedral

There is no way around visiting the Salzburg Cathedral. It is located in the heart of the old town and admission is free. Salzburg Cathedral was the first baroque church in Austria and has remained largely unchanged. From the five organs to the ceiling paintings, the stucco work on the walls, and the crypt. It is an artistic gem and one of the few things you must do in Salzburg.

Here is an article on why the Salzburg Cathedral is a Must-See – and how to visit?

5. Click a Picture with Mozart at Mozart Square

Salzburg became famous for Mozart a hundred years before “The Sound of Music” was even made into a movie. At the time when he became popular, Salzburg needed a monument to honor him. To that end, St. Michael’s Square was renamed Mozart square, and the Mozart statue was created to commemorate the fiftieth anniversary of Mozart’s death. But there was a problem.

When Salzburg began to lay a foundation, remains of a Roman villa were found. Therefore, it took another year to finish the statue. However, it was finally inaugurated the fifty-first year of Mozart’s death. Look on the ground on the right side when you look at the statue, and you will find a replica of a mosaic they found.

Nowadays, Mozart Square and the Statue is one of the most iconic and photographed places in Salzburg. You should not miss the chance to take a selfie with Mozart.

6. Admire Austrian Baroque at the University Church

The University church was renovated for ten years until 2013. There are no paintings on the walls and no pews. Therefore, the University Church is an impressive white space. I recommend that you lie down on one of the half-inclined benches and look at the ceiling. This church is an oasis of calm in the most hectic part of Salzburg. Despite its splendor, the University Church is not popular with tourists.

The church, as the name suggests, was part of the university. Built around 1700 by the same architect as Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna, the University Church was the last historic building in Salzburg’s old town. When Salzburg lost its independence, and the university was temporarily closed, the church ceased to function as a church. Today it is used more for concerts than religious services.

7. Visit the Franciscan Church

The Franciscans came to Salzburg in the course of the reformation around 1600. They took over the church from the abandoned Benedictine Nunnery but had been sharing the monastery building with the Benedictine Monks of Saint Peter on the opposite side of Franziskanergasse alley. The Monastery and the Church are connected with a corridor above the alley.

The Franciscan church is one of the oldest churches and has changed its appearance several times throughout history. Thus, you will find traces of different art historical periods from the Romanesque nave from the 12th century to the Baroque high altar and the Neo-Gothic tower from the 19th century.

Insider tip:  When you exit the church and turn left, you see an entrance next to the crucifix. In case it’s open and especially in summer, try to take a look inside. Be very respectful; it’s a private garden. A beautiful, private garden. The monks usually don’t mind you looking at the dozens of different plants.

8. Visit the Church of Saint Peters

St. Peter is the place where St. Rupert founded Salzburg in 696. That’s right. Salzburg is the oldest city in Austria, and St. Peters is the oldest monastery in the German-speaking world. It has been active for 1300 years. The statue above the church entrance is St. Rupert, the founder, with his salt cask. You can find a statue of him in most churches in Salzburg.

You can’t visit the monastery of St. Peter, but the church is a must-see. It is now newly renovated in 2020 and the perfect picture of a baroque church. Next to the church is another entrance to St. Peter’s Cemetery, which is also a must-see. Also, note the restaurant in the corner. Above the door is written 803, as St. Peter’s Restaurant claims to be the oldest in Europe.

9. Visit Mozart’s Birthplace

Salzburg is the city of Mozart. He was born here in 1756, and Mozart’s birthplace is the most popular sight, along with the fortress. It is a must-see, even if only from the outside. However, if you have a Salzburg Card, admission is free, and you should take a look inside. Of course, if you are really interested, you should take a look inside whether or not you have a Salzburg Card.

Where was Mozart born? – Mozart’s Birthplace in Salzburg

10. Visit the Mozart Residence

Mozart was born in Getreidegasse, but when he was 17 years old, the family needed a larger space, and they moved to the other side of the river. Just outside the Mirabell gardens is where the Mozart family moved. He lived there until he finally broke with Salzburg and moved to Vienna for good at the age of 25. As the birthplace, the residence is a museum you can visit with the Salzburg Card or if you are really interested.

Things to do at a specific Time

11. watch the sunrise from humboldtterasse.

When: Every Morning

Getting up is not easy, I know. But suppose you are an early riser or talk yourself into getting up and going. In that case, this recommendation is more than worth following. I wake up many mornings, and even though it doesn’t seem worth it and I’d rather sleep, I remember the sunrises from the Humboldt Terrace on Mönchsberg, and that makes me get up and go.

It’s best between April and October when the weather is stable and the sun rises next to the mountains in the east. From Müllnerkirche church at the north-west end of the old town, you can go up. After sunrise, you continue along the mountain, following the sun, discovering more places and more great views.

Read this article for a  photographer’s guide to views and landscapes in Salzburg .

12. Attend the Morning Prayer at Nonnberg

When: Daily at 6.45 am

Nonnberg Abbey is the oldest nunnery in the world. It was founded in 717, shortly after the founding of the monastery of St. Peter and the city of Salzburg. Like St. Peter’s Monastery, St. Rupert founded Nonnberg Abbey and brought one of his relatives from Bavaria to be the abbess of the newly established monastery.

The visit to the Nonnberg Monastery is anyway worthwhile, but the morning prayer is extraordinary. Most of the nuns live their lives in seclusion and never go out in public. Therefore, they cannot be seen during their prayer and chanting. They are located above the church hall, hidden behind a fence. Their singing and prayer is a mystical experience in the dimly lit Nonnberg Church.

13. Listen to the Glockenspiel Bell Tower of Salzburg

When: Daily at 7 am, 11 am, and 3 pm

The Salzburg carillon was the last addon to the new archiepiscopal residence on the main square in Salzburg’s old town. The bells came from Belgium, where they were actually intended for another church. But that church burned down, and so Salzburg made a bargain. But no one in Salzburg knew how to make them work. Therefore, it took ten years before the 35 bells played for the first time.

Nowadays, the bells play three times a day at 7 am, at 11 am, and 3 pm. The melody changes every month. Just wait at the residence square to hear the tune. And don’t panic if no song is heard at first. You are in the right place on Residenzplatz, but the bells are always five minutes late.

On Thursdays afternoon and on Friday morning, there are tours to the bell tower, which I can highly recommend. Private tours to the bell tower would be available as well. If you are interested, you might also want to read this  article on the Salzburg bell tower tours .

14. In the Evening watch the Sound of Music at the Yoho Hostel

When: Every day at 8 pm

I worked for Yoho Hostel for years, and every night we played The Sound of Music. No exceptions. The hostel is open 365 days a year, and that’s how often the movie plays every year. If you want to see the film while you are in Salzburg, just go there at 8 pm, grab a drink, order a cheap dinner at the bar and join the enthusiastic crowd in the common room.

It’s not a problem if you don’t stay there overnight. You can tell the front desk you’re there to see the movie, but you actually don’t have to. It doesn’t matter. You can also tell the receptionist that Gerhard from the Free Walking Tour sent you.  Here is an article on the yoho hostel  if you want to know more and consider staying at a hostel in Salzburg.

15. Watch the Sunset from Kapuzinerberg Mountain

While the best place to enjoy the sunrise is at the Mönchsberg, the best place for the sunset is the Kapuzinerberg. Not from the top of the mountain, which would take you an hour hike, but from the end of the Imbergstiege, the staircase which starts in Steingasse, only a minute away from the Free Walking Tour meeting point. It will take you about five minutes to climb the stairs.

There are two viewpoints on tops. One from which you can see the old town and one from which you overlook the more modern part of the town.

Both are excellent, and they are only a minute apart, so you should visit both. And if you feel like hiking, you can also go to the forest behind the Capuchin monastery. There are a few more viewpoints there, but none of them are as spectacular as the one at the end of the stairs.

16. Thursday visit the Schranne

When: Every Thursday

The traditional Farmers in Salzburg is called Schranne and happens every Thursday. It begins at 5 am and ends at around 1 pm. If you happen to be in Salzburg on a Thursday, there is no way you don’t visit the Schranne. 

Because it’s open early, you can visit Schranne before any other activity you have planned. Schranne is not a non-touristy market; it’s a fixed date in many Salzburg residents’ weekly schedules.

For me, it was a regular weekly appointment for a long time. I went there for the fried chicken. I recommend that to you as well. The chicken is right in front of the church. You order a chicken wing and eat it with your hands at one of the high tables. Otherwise, the farmers sell fresh vegetables, raw meat, bread and pastries, and less cooked food like fried chicken.

17. In June, attend the Salzburg Funfair called Dult

When: 8 Days at the beginning of June

The Dult is the traditional annual fair. Theme park attractions, beer, and street food. It is located away from the old town on the fairgrounds, but you can reach it by walking along the river for about 30 minutes. Although it’s not as traditional as Rupertikirtag, the other annual funfair in September, you’ll get a good sense of the local culture by visiting the Salzburg Dult.

18. In July and August, watch Opera on the Public Viewing Screen

When: 6 Weeks in July and August

To the average tourist, it may seem unremarkable. But the Salzburg Festival is the largest classical music festival in the world. Every year, 250,000 tickets are sold. However, the best tickets are sold out early in the year and are expensive.

There is, however, the Siemens Festival, which is a screen in one of the Squares next to the Cathedral, where you can watch recordings and sometimes live performances for free. During popular operas and premieres, the square fills with people. With the illuminated fortress in the background, the atmosphere in the square is extraordinary.

Here you find the program for the screenings  while the festival is on, and the public viewing schedule is fixed.

19. In September, have Fun at the Rupertikirtag Fair

When: 5 Days at the End of September

The Rupertikirtag is considered the most important traditional festival in Austria. It is dedicated to St. Rupert, the founder and patron saint of Salzburg. The festival had its origins in the consecration of the first Cathedral in 774, when Rupert’s relics were transferred to the Cathedral. But don’t think of Rupertikirtag as a religious festival.

It’s more like Oktoberfest in that there’s lots of beer, food, and folk music, as well as theme park rides. These rides are especially unique. Only a few of them are modern. The rest, like the carousel and Ferris wheel, are super vintage. The festival takes place for five days right in the heart of the old town. So no matter if you want to visit Rupertikirtag, you will if you happen to be in Salzburg during that time. 

20. In December visit the Christmas Markets

When: The Month before Christmas

The Christmas market is not a must-do in Salzburg but rather the reason to visit Salzburg in December. A no-brainer. The Christmas markets take place for a month until December 24. The primary Christmas market takes place around the Cathedral. However, there are many more you can visit, such as the one at Mirabellplatz, Hellbrunn, or the Lakes District.

The best thing to do at the Salzburg Christmas Market is to drink mulled wine and try many delicious Austrian foods. The Christmas market food is reasonably priced, and dishes you would typically only find in restaurants are available in smaller portions. There are also ice skating, pretty souvenirs, and other smaller events like choir singing and Krampus runs.

The Christmas markets website  provides more information about these minor events’ schedule and the exact dates when the markets open and close.

Things to Learn about Salzburg

21. identify each of the dwarfs in mirabell garden.

The dwarves in Mirabell are not just cute decorations, but there is a whole story behind them. There were 28 dwarfs as a counterpart to the 28 heroes and gods in the garden. However, only 17 dwarfs remain because Salzburg auctioned them off when they went out of fashion around 1800.

The dwarfs were a kind of game for the archbishop and his guests. Each of the dwarfs has a symbol, and with this symbol, he stands for something. Visit the dwarf garden, find out what each of the symbols stands for, and maybe even find out which of the dwarfs was in “Sound of Music.”

22. Learn about Greek Heroes and Gods in Mirabell Garden

The most significant decoration of the Mirabell Garden is the Element Fountain in the center. Depicted are dramatic scenes of battle and abduction—popular stories from Greek mythology. Suppose you have ever read anything about them. In that case, you are undoubtedly familiar with the individual stories to which the statues refer.

However, without an explanation, it’s hard to identify them. That, and because it is my personal interest, I have put together an article explaining each statue. It is intended to serve as your guide through the mythology of the Mirabell Gardens.

23. Learn about Greek Mythology at the Entrance of Mirabell Garden

Did you notice the 16 Gods at the entrance of the Mirabell garden? Surely you noticed the four warriors. They starred in the Sound of Music. On the other hand, the gods and goddesses are less often noticed, even though their stories open up a whole new world of ancient Greek mythology. You may know that these gods and goddesses are all one family. A family marked by intrigue and jealousy. The fabric for great stories.

24. Walk the Walk of Modern Art

The Walk of Modern art is based on the 13 modern artworks of the Salzburg Foundation. The Salzburg foundation was a private initiative with the noble goal of bringing art directly to the people instead of museums. I don’t like modern art, but I like this idea, and these artworks became a part of the city. Also, they are spread all over town. When you go looking for them, you are exploring Salzburg at the same time. That’s what I call alternative sightseeing.

Here are a comprehensive  article and guide on the Walk of Modern Art and Modern Art in Salzburg  in general.

25. Study the Archbishops at the Salzburg Cathedral

Because Salzburg was an independent ecclesiastical state, the archbishops are Salzburg’s history until it became a part of Austria in 1816. Therefore, there is no better way to learn about the history of Salzburg than through the archbishops. Most of them were either buried in the Cathedral’s crypt or at least have a memorial there.

The Cathedral’s crypt was not opened to the public until after the reconstruction from World War II. There are epitaphs and monuments to archbishops throughout the Cathedral. Learn more about them and identify each of the tombs and monuments. Some of their traces in the form of coats of arms can be found not only in the Cathedral but everywhere in the city.

Things to Eat and Drink in Salzburg

26. try the original mozart chocolate.

Mozart chocolate can be found everywhere in Austria. The biggest producer is even a German company. But the original, invented on the 100th anniversary of Mozart’s death, is still handmade, available only in Salzburg and only in the confectionery that developed it. Konditorei Fürst operates a cafe on the Alter Markt and three small stores that sell chocolate.

The original Mozart chocolate is still handmade, and they sell it only in their stores. The chocolate is wrapped in blue and silver foil. Be aware that many other stores also wrap their chocolate in blue and silver, rather than the more popular red and gold, to give the impression that they are original. If it’s not Fürst, they’re not.

Read this  article for the history and the whole truth about the Mozart chocolate .

27. Try the Sourdough Bread at Salzburgs oldest Bakery

At the entrance to St. Peter’s Cemetery, coming from Kapitelplatz square, there is usually a smell of bread. There is also a mill wheel there, constantly moving water. The mill belongs to the oldest bakery in Salzburg, and they renovated the wheel in 2008 to generate electricity. The water comes from the Almkanal, from the canal system of the city of Salzburg.

The city of Salzburg built this canal system in the 12th century, and that’s when the bakery started using the water to run the mill and grind the flour. Even today, the old sourdough recipe is used, which makes the bread not only tasty but also healthy. You can buy the bread directly in the room where it is baked. I am loving it.

28. Try the Original Bosna at Balkan Grill

Bosna is one of the few dishes native to Salzburg and not available in the rest of Austria. The street food dish was invented at the Augustiner Brewery by a Bulgarian, who opened a Bosna stand in the most famous street in Salzburg only a year after he created Bosna at the brewery in the 1950s. Nowadays, you find Bosna at every sausage stand, but the original is still sold at the same place. Read this article to  find out more about Bosna and Austrian Street food in general .

29. Embrace Austrian Street Food at the Salzburger Grill Imbiss

Salzburg Grill Imbiss on Wiener Philharmoniker Gasse has the best sausages in Salzburg, the only authentic Austrian street food. I recommend trying Käsekrainer, a sausage with bits of cheese melted inside, or get a Bosna, which is just as good at Grill Imbiss as it is at the original Getreidegasse. Here’s another article for a  full review on the best street food in Salzburg . Read it to learn how I became a sausage stand celebrity.

30. Drink Coffee at Salzburgs oldest Cafe

Opened in 1703, Cafe Tomaselli is probably not only the oldest cafe in Salzburg but the oldest cafe in all of Austria. It’s more of a tourist attraction, but if a visit to Salzburg’s oldest cafe is on your bucket list, you should definitely visit. The best place to sit is on the balcony overlooking the old market (just a name, there is no market).

31. Experience Austrian Coffee House Culture at Café Bazar

The best place to do that is Cafe Bazar. I really believe that it is the only place where you can experience an authentic Austrian coffee house atmosphere in Salzburg. Cafe Bazar was opened in the second half of the 19th century and became a place for artists, intellectuals, and all kinds of curious people.

Even today, it is a place where you go not for the excellent coffee but for all the trimmings.

“A place where time and space are consumed, but only coffee is on the bill.” Quote by the Austrian writer Stefan Zweig.

Coffee and coffeehouses are a personal passion of mine. Here is an article that contains everything I know about  Austrian coffee house culture and traditional Austrian coffee houses in Salzburg .

32. Drink House Roasted Coffee at 220 Degree

However, traditional Austrian coffee houses are for the atmosphere and the experience, not the places that serve the best coffee.

The 220 Degrees is the institution of Specialty coffee in Salzburg. They were the first ones to bring good coffee to the people of Salzburg, and they continue to be on top of their game. These days there is even a second branch in Nonntal, and both places are busy all the time.

You can also buy their self imported, house-roasted beans to prepare coffee at home or choose from a variety of coffee specialties, but I would recommend getting you a coffee boost on location. That’s the  220 Grad Coffee House  website, and here is an  article on the best coffee in Salzburg  that features them as well as another one of my favorite cafes, the next in this article.

33. Drink Great Specialty Coffee and Look out the Window at Café Alchemie

For true coffee lovers, there’s no way around Kaffee Alchemie in Salzburg. It’s unassuming, but don’t let the tiny establishment fool you. The owner is a world champion barista. You can imagine that the coffee is world-class accordingly. Because of the limited space at Kaffee Alchemie, there is a strict no laptop policy.

Therefore, chances are you’ll get one of the seats by the window, from where you can watch the passing cyclists and pedestrians with the Kapuzinerberg in the background. A place to come down while you cheer yourself up with a cup of coffee.

Like the 220 degrees I mentioned in the previous point, they are part of my article on  Salzburg’s two best specialty coffee places .

34. Eat Jause (Austrian snack Meal) at the Restaurant with the Best View

The Stadtalm is one of the more modest places in Salzburg, but it undoubtedly offers the best view for your lunch while hiking to the top of the Mönchsberg. You sit on the edge of the mountain and have a view of all the sights and the fortress on the other side at eye level. Stadt means city, and Alm means alpine pasture, so I recommend the traditional Austrian snack Jause. Jause is what you would get on an alpine pasture. A selection of bread and cold cuts.

By the way, on the Stadtalm, there are also a few hostel beds if you are looking for a really unique place to stay. Here are my recommendations, including the Stadtalm,  in case you are still looking for accommodation in Salzburg .

35. Eat the Vegetarian Austrian Dish Kasnocken at Pauli Stubn

There are not many vegetarian dishes on an Austrian menu. Kasnocken is the only vegetarian dish you find in almost every Austrian restaurant. But it’s not only suitable for vegetarians. Kasnocken is one of the recipes you should try in Austria. It’s different from the rest of the Austrian meals. It is a category of its own, so to speak.

There are restaurants outside of Salzburg that only serve Kasnocken and nothing else. Kasnocken is a kind of Austrian pasta/dumplings with tasty melted cheese. Pauli Stubm is the place famous for the best Kasnocken in the city of Salzburg. I agree. I have not found a better place for Kasnocken in the town yet, and they fully deserve the fame.

36. Try Salzburger Nockerl at S’Nockerl (permanently closed in 2020)

Unlike its savory namesake, Kasnocken, Salzburger Nockerl is a Dessert. They consist mainly of sugar and egg whites and are baked in the oven. This sweet delicacy is, as the name suggests, typical of Salzburg. It’s a symbol for the three city mountains, which I often mention in this article, and one of the few dishes that are typical to Salzburg but not to the rest of Austria.

To be honest, in the 34 years I have been alive and living in Salzburg, I only ate Salzburger Nockerl twice. It’s not something the locals actually order. Maybe we don’t because we could order them anytime. You likely just visit Salzburg once and, therefore, Salzburger Nockerl are worth a try. I don’t know of anything like it, and if you like sweets, you will undoubtedly love them.

One of the two times I ate Salzburger Nockerl was in the restaurant with the same name that I liked a lot. It closed in 2020, unfortunately. You can still find Salzburger Nockerl in many restaurants in the city, but I can’t recommend any because I haven’t tried them anywhere else.

37. Have Dinner at Andreas Hofer Weinstube

Andreas Hofer Weinstube is not only the restaurant with the most rustic traditional Austrian furnishing but also a culinary highlight when it comes to Austrian food. When you enter the restaurant, it feels like you’re stepping into another century. The dimly lit room with the small windows and the interior lit by candles make you quickly forget about the outside world.

38. Eat Cake at the Best Pastry Shop in Town

Konditorei Schatz is the place for cake. They have the best “non-original” Sachertorte cake; they were one of the first to copy the Mozart chocolate from Fürst, the first to call it Mozartkugel (Mozart balls), and their cake is simply the best. Don’t believe me? Do you wonder why this should be the best cake? Well, it’s not without reason.

As of now, in 2021, Konditorei Schatz has been run by the same confectioner, Erich Winkler, who was born in 1936 and has been a pastry chef all his life. The cakes are not made by just anyone. They are baked by the most capable person in town. I hope and pray to God that they will find a worthy successor when he retires.

39. Try the Original Sacher Cake

The Sacher cake was invented in Vienna in the 19th century. That’s where the original cafe and the hotel are located and where the argument over the ownership broke out. The Salzburg branch opened some 30 years ago. The cake is a chocolate and jam cake. Like the Mozart chocolate, the Sacher cake is available everywhere in Austria, but the original is only available in actual Sacher cafés.

The original Sacher cake, however, is known to be too dry. Why would that be, you ask? Well, the cake was invented 150 years ago, and Sacher claims that the recipe is a secret. That’s why they have to stick to their secret recipe, while other cafes and pastry shops can change the way they make the cake.

40. Eat and Drink at Austria’s biggest Beer Hall

The Augustiner Brewery in Mülln is by far the largest beer venue in Austria. It consists of 1400 seats in the garden and another three beer halls inside. When you get there, you take a mug from the shelf, rinse it yourself and get a liter of beer. The Augustiner isn’t just nice for the beer, though; I love its self-serve food stands. They are a great way to try different Austrian foods by ordering several small portions. Especially if you’re a group of people.

41. Drink Austria’s most famous Beer and enjoy the View at Stieglkeller

Stiegl is the most significant private brewery in Austria. Founded in the year Columbus discovered America, it is also one of Austria’s oldest beer brands. Its bottles and cans can be found in every supermarket in Austria. While the brewery is located on the outskirts of Salzburg, the restaurant is located just below the fortress.

Since it is slightly elevated, you have a fantastic view of the old town with all its church towers.

I would recommend having a beer at the Stieglbrauerei restauranters beer garden on a sunny day, for the beautiful view and to try Austria’s most famous beer. That’s it.

42. Enjoy a Can of Stiegl Beer on the Banks of the River

Yes, it is allowed to drink beer in public. Everybody does that. People in Austria drink beer when and where they want, and you can too. On a warm, sunny day, especially when summer is just starting, the river banks are filled with people. You can get your can of beer at Billa on Hanuschplatz.

Things to do in Nature

43. walk to the hohensalzburg fortress.

Instead of taking the Funicular, you can walk and thus save money, enjoy the surrounding nature and get other impressions of the fortress as you pass the three gates on the way up. I would recommend this to anyone who is fit enough and doesn’t care about the cable car ride (which is, by the way, fantastic).

The hike up to Hohensalzburg Fortress is steep but short.

Bonus tip:  If you would like to visit the fortress for free, walk up at the closing time! When the fortress closes, the ticket office closes, and an hour or two later, they close the big gate. Therefore, you can enter for free shortly after the closing time. There is a small door that can only be opened from the inside, so once inside, you can stay as long as you want. The museums will be closed, but the whole building will remain accessible.

44. Hike along Mönchsberg

Mönchsberg is the mountain that surrounds the old town of Salzburg on the left side of the river. It looks like a wall. Now because of that, once you are on top of mount Mönchsberg, it’s completely flat. And then Mönchsberg is so close to the most famous sights in the old town that you get an excellent overview and different perspective of the historic part of Salzburg. Aside from the view, there are a few things there like the Museum of Modern Art, the Stadtalm restaurant, a climbing wall, and let’s not forget the fortress (even though it’s technically on a different mountain).

I always say that you have to see Salzburg from above at least once while you are here. It can be from the Mönchsberg, from the Kapuzinerberg, or from the fortress. However, the Mönchsberg is the best free way to get this view while being in nature and without spending money or exhausting yourself. The best way is to hike the whole mountain from the Müllnerkirche to the fortress to the Nonnberg monastery. It takes about an hour.

45. Walk around the Buddhist Stupa

Another thing to do on the Mönchsberg is to visit the Buddhist Stupa Monument. That’s right. We have a dome-shaped Buddhist stupa monument in the middle of the city in the forest on one of the hills. It is hidden on a platform behind the trees. You probably won’t find it by accident, but if you look on the map and know where it is, you’ll get there.

What Buddhists and Hindus do at such monuments or temples is called circumambulation. It means walking around the monument. That is why there is a walking path around the stupa.

46. Get another Angle of the Fortress at Richterhöhe

Richterhöhe is a hidden viewing platform on Mönchsberg, where you are almost at eye level with the fortress. It’s a very distinct view. From there, you can also see to the other side of Mönchsberg mountain and see the alps. You can’t see the Alps from the city center, but you see them from the fortress or Richterhöhe.

47. Climb and Boulder at Richterhöhe

If climbing or bouldering is your thing, there are two spots on the Mönchsberg. One is at a playground in Mülln at the north end of the mountain, and another is on Richterhöhe just before the climb to the viewing platform. It’s a straight wall and quite challenging, but you can go sideways, and you don’t need any equipment except maybe shoes.

48. Enjoy the only Public Green Space on the Left Side of the River

Furtwängler Park between the University Library, the University Church, and the Concert Hall was once a monastery garden. The whole area was a monastery garden before the university was founded. Since the old city of Salzburg is surrounded by mountains, the space was limited. Today this tiny park is not only what is left of the monastery garden, but the only green space on this side of the river.

What you will find there are some modern artworks and a few chairs scattered around the park. Because of its proximity to the university, students tend to hang out there, but so do other locals looking for a moment of peace and quiet. That’s the thing about the old town of Salzburg. It is very touristy. It gets very crowded, but quiet areas are always just a corner away.

49. Walk along One of Salzburgs oldest Streets

Steingasse is always empty because there is no real reason to go there. There are no notable sights and nothing for locals to do. But it is one of the oldest alleys in Salzburg, and nowhere in Salzburg is the medieval spirit and simplicity of life on the right side of the river in the past more visible. I recommend walking the Steingasse from beginning to end, after or before visiting the Mozartsteg footbridge, another random but beautiful place.

50. Hike on Kapuzinerberg Mountain

Kapuzinerberg is a recreational area for locals in Salzburg. The yellow building, the Capuchin monastery, at the end of the stairs or the street on Kapuzinerberg. At the monastery, there are two of the best viewpoints in Salzburg, especially for sunset. There is, however, a lot of forest behind the monastery, and not many walk to the top of Kapuzinerberg.

On Kapuzinerberg, you will feel like you are no longer in the city. There are even mountain goats on this mountain, but they are hard to spot. I only managed to see one once.

Kapuzinerberg is only one of three city mountains in Salzburg. Here is a detailed guide on the city hikes in Salzburg .

Sidenote:  On the way there, you will find a Mozart monument and a Stefan Zweig monument, and if you go up the street, you will find stumbling stones for Stefan Zweig, because in the villa, on the left in front of the observation deck, Stefan Zweig lived before he fled from the Nazis on the eve of World War II.

51. Rent a Bike and Cycle to Leopoldskroner Weiher

Leopoldskron Castle on the Leopoldskroner Weiher is a rococo castle from the beginning of the 18th century. Since the castle is now owned by an American non-profit organization, it is private and not public. Therefore, you can only see Schloss Leopoldskron from the shore of the lake on the other side. The lake and the castle are beautiful, but otherwise, there is not much to do in Leopoldskron. Therefore, I recommend renting a bike to make the trip worthwhile.

Leopoldskron is predestined to be combined with a bike tour to Hellbrunn Palace. This is the route that the Sound of Music bike tours take. Leopoldskron Castle made an appearance in the Sound of Music. It was the back of the house in the movie. Do you remember the scene on the boat? That’s at the Leopoldskron pond.

52. Explore Hellbrunnerberg to find the Stone Theater

In Hellbrunn , there is the Salzburg Zoo, there are the trick fountains, there is the palace museum, and there is a folklore museum. That folklore museum is inside Monatsschlössl, the yellow castle on the hillside of Hellbrunnerberg mountain. 

But this mountain houses a less obvious secret.

If you continue through the forest past the Monatsschlössel, the little yellow castle, or climb the mountain from the other side, you will eventually come across a theater carved into the mountain stone. It’s a very unusual thing. Not many people know about it, but I think it’s the most beautiful part of Hellbrunn.

53. Rent a Bike and Cycle to the Sound of Music Pavilion

In Hellbrunn, there is a park where in spring and summer, the locals hang out. Especially those with children. The park is large and surrounded by walls because these were the hunting grounds of the archbishop. There are the trick fountains, the castle, the zoo. There are many reasons to visit Hellbrunn , but the primary purpose is to see The Sound of Music pavilion in the park.

I have seen many negative reviews for the pavilion of people being underwhelmed by it and negative reviews for arriving there at the same time as a tour group. Well, it’s just a pavilion, and about the most touristy thing you can do. It’s not a crowded place, but when the tour buses arrive, it becomes one.

That’s why I recommend taking a bike ride along the old archbishop’s avenue, the Hellbrunner Allee. Then the pilgrimage to the Sound of Music pavilion is all the more worthwhile. As I mentioned with Leopoldskron, Hellbrunn and Leopoldskron Palace are the places you go to on the Sound of Music bike tour. So my recommendation is to rent a bike and do your Sound of Music bike tour.

54. Go on a Pilgrimage to Maria Plain

Maria Plain is probably the place with the most spectacular view over Salzburg. It’s in the north of Salzburg, about a hundred meters higher in elevation. That’s why you see all of the city as well as the majestic mountains in the background. Maria plain used to be a place of pilgrimage or still is for some people. You walk about 1 hour and 30 minutes from the center of Salzburg to reach the church in Maria Plain.

The old signposts, in the form of little houses with scenes from the cross, start near the train station. When this pilgrimage was popular a few hundred years ago, the train station area was still a green meadow. The waymarks began where the city ended. Nowadays, however, the city extends to the hill where Maria Plain is. To get there today, it is best to walk along the river and at some point to the right.

55. Hike to the Top of Mount Gaisberg

Gaisberg is the most serious hike you can do right from the old town of Salzburg without the need for public transport. You will need between 30 minutes and 1 hour to reach the trail and another 2 to 3 hours to reach the top of the mountain. Salzburg is 450 meters above sea level, and the top of Gaisberg is at 1300 meters above sea level. Gaisberg is not technically demanding, but it requires endurance and suitable footwear.

56. Swim in the Salzachseen Lakes

The Salzach lakes are artificially created lakes. They are located next to the main river Salzach about 30 minutes walk from the old town. These lakes were created as a byproduct of the highway. They are freely accessible and the alternative to public swimming pools. I prefer swimming in the rivers because the water is cleaner and I like the cold, but the lakes are warmer and perfect for staying in the water. There are also large fields around these lakes where you can chill and soak up the sun.

57. Stroll Salzburgs Municipal Cemetery

The Kommunalfriedhof (municipal cemetery) in Salzburg is not as impressive as the Zentralfriedhof (central cemetery) in Vienna. However, it dates from the same time and style. The Salzburg Municipal Cemetery was explicitly designed to serve as a recreational area for the people of Salzburg. It is nestled in a small city forest, and there are benches, fountains, and more.

58. Swim in the Cold Water of Almkanal

Do as the locals do and visit Almkanal for a quick swim. For this, you need to be a skilled swimmer; the current is strong. You also need to be aware that it will only be a quick dip because the water is cold. Almkanal is the 12th-century canal system of Salzburg. The part of Almkanal you are visiting is on the other side of Mönchsberg before the water flows through the mountain into the city.

The water of the Almkanal comes from the Königssee (kingslake). The lake is located in Germany, about 30 kilometers from Salzburg, and has the best water quality in Germany. The water comes directly from the mountains. The parts of the canal where you can swim are about 20 to 30 minutes walk from the center of the old town or about 10 minutes by bike.

59. Take Bus Number 25 to the Untersberg Cable Car

The things to do in Salzburg that are on this list are only in the area of the city of Salzburg. Not in the province of Salzburg. Even if Untersberg is not in the city of Salzburg anymore, there is no way not to include the cable car. On the one hand, because it’s the best thing you can do with a Salzburg card and on the other hand because it’s the most amazing thing you can reach on a 30-minute bus ride.

The bus that takes you to the Untersberg is number 25, and the last stop on this bus is right in front of the cable car that takes you to 1800 meters above sea level. The Salzburg Card is valid for both the bus and the cable car. Therefore, it is cheaper to buy the card even if you only take the bus and the cable car. The Untersberg is the main reason why I would recommend a Salzburg Card to everyone.

Here is a guide on how to take the Untersberg Cable Car .

60. Take Bus Number 151 to the Top of Gaisberg

The Gaisberg is the third of Salzburg’s city mountains with an altitude of 1300 meters. Compared to the other two city mountains, the hike to the top of the Gaisberg is physically demanding. Although you can hike from the city center to the summit, it will take you about 5 to 6 hours to ascend and descend.

Therefore the Gaisberg bus is a valid alternative. You can either take the bus to the top and back, hike up and take the bus down, take the bus halfway up and hike or take the bus halfway up to Zistelalm and hike around the mountain. The bus is inexpensive because it’s a regular public bus. It’s the least expensive and least time-consuming way to reach a mountain top.

More Things to do in Salzburg

61. take the elevator to the museum of modern art.

The Museum of Modern Art is not a must-visit. However, the elevator to reach the museum can make your ascent to Mönchsberg easier and again. If you have the Salzburg card, the museum is included. But if you don’t have time for the museum, just take the elevator and enjoy the view for a minute. It’s gorgeous. You can also take the elevator to skip the climb but then walk along Mönchsberg mountain, which is flat.

62. Walk in the Footsteps of the Sound of Music

The Sound of Music, filmed in 1965, is more popular than ever more than 50 years later. Not only Americans come to Salzburg for the movie, but everyone from all over the world. Everyone except Austrians, Germans, and Swiss. Most of us have never seen the film. That’s why it’s not something the locals would do. Most Salzburgers have never seen the movie and have no idea what it’s about.

But that shouldn’t be a reason not to visit the filming locations. Many of them are located in the old town and are within walking distance. Others are a short bus ride away or perfectly accessible by bike, while a few are a day trip away. In any case, searching for Sound of Music filming locations is another one of the alternative sightseeing options I like because the Sound of Music locations are everywhere. Therefore, you will be exploring all of Salzburg in search of them.

63. Get lost in the Hedge Maze in Mirabell Garden

Mirabell is not only a garden and a castle, but the garden hides many secrets. One of them is the hedge theater and the labyrinth behind it. When you enter the garden from Makartplatz, you will find the hedge labyrinth and the open-air theater on the left side. You can’t get lost in the maze. It is too small for that, but you can walk through it, enter the theater stage, and then continue to the dwarf garden.

64. Feel like you are on a Tropical Vacation in the Orangerie

The Orangery is a greenhouse in one of the corners of the Mirabell Gardens. It was used to grow exotic fruits like oranges for the archbishop in winter and otherwise. Today there are still fruits and palm trees, and there are birds in a cage. The climate there is different from the outside and very humid. Simply tropical.

65. Visit the Grave of Mozart’s Sister Nannerl

While Mozart gets all the credit, his sister was very talented as well. When they were kids, they traveled together and performed together. When Nannerl was an adult, however, she could only teach piano. At that time, it wouldn’t have been appropriate for a woman to perform in public. It’s said that the reason she is the only one from the Mozart family buried at Saint Peter’s is that she didn’t get along with Mozart’s wife. The latter is buried in the Family grave at Saint Sebastian’s.

66. Find a Free Student Concert at Mozarteum

Paid concerts are available at Mirabell Palace, the Fortress, St. Peter’s Restaurant, and the Old Residence. But there is also the world-famous Mozarteum University of Music. Its students have to practice, preferably in front of an audience. That’s why rehearsals are open to the public and free of charge.

Check the schedule to experience a world-class musical performance at zero cost. Of course, there are no performances on vacations and weekends, but on other days when students need to practice a lot, there are concerts all afternoon.

Read this article to  learn more about concerts in Salzburg!

67. Check the Program of the State Theater

Considering that Salzburg is famous for classical music, it’s surprisingly hard to find decent concerts. The state theater is the best place for inexpensive opera. They are not on in summer, and there are other plays as well, but if there happens to be an opera performance during the time you are in Salzburg, go for it! The cheapest tickets are usually €16,- and the performances are always great.

68. Watch a String Puppet Theater Performance

You may remember the string puppets from the song of the lonely goatherd in The Sound of Music. These string puppets were not a Hollywood invention; they have been around since before World War I. Not only are the performances art, but the making of the puppets is an art form in itself. The most common performances today are The Sound of Music and Mozart’s Magic Flute.

Here is the official  website of the string puppet theater.

69. Pay tribute to Mozart at the Family Grave on Sebastiansfriedhof

Mozart is buried in Vienna, but most of his family is buried at Saint Sebastian’s cemetery. But St. Sebastian’s Cemetery is worth a visit not only for Mozart’s father, Mozart’s wife, and her second husband. Although the family is buried there, the cemetery remains an off-the-beaten-path secret of Salzburg. Tucked away behind St. Sebastian’s Church in Linzergasse, the cemetery is an oasis of peace and tranquility.

70. Visit the Grave of Wolf Dietrich on Sebastiansfriedhof

When visiting Saint Sebastian’s cemetery for the Mozart family or for the sake of seeing the cemetery, you will find a round building in the middle of the square field. This round building is the mausoleum of one of the most essential archbishops in history. Wolf Dietrich was the one who built Mirabell Palace and started to demolish the medieval Salzburg to replace it with baroque buildings.

71. Put a Lock on the Makartsteg Lock Bridge

In many cities, the locks on the bridges are not welcome. They often damage monuments of cultural heritage. In Salzburg, that’s not the case. When the lock bridge fashion reached Salzburg in 2011, the city tried to get rid of the eleven first locks. However, the bridge quickly regained its locks, and the city decided to accept them. Some of the locks were cut off in the spring, but most of them remain on the bridge and serve as decoration.

72. Indulge in Wellness at the Paracelsus Spa

The old Paracelsus swimming pool dated from just after World War II. It was sad to see the old pool demolished, but when the new Paracelsus swimming pool and sauna opened in 2019, it turned out to be worth the sacrifice. I guess I was the first person to load the full €500 on a prepaid discount card on the first day before even trying the new facility.

Since the new sauna opened, I’ve been there at least once a week, sometimes two or three times. Paracelsus now not only has a sauna but an infinity saltwater pool with panoramic views of the city on the roof. Sounds incredible, doesn’t it? It is. That’s where I recharge my batteries and relax. If you don’t know Austrian sauna culture, be aware that it’s mixed and everyone is naked.

Here is the  Website of the Paracelsus Pool and Sauna .

73. Cross the River at Mozartsteg Footbridge

Mozartsteg footbridge was built by the owner of a cafe on the right side of the river. The right side of the river was more for the lower-class people. Therefore, the smart businessman came up with the idea of building a bridge to facilitate access to his cafe from the other side of the Salzach. But he had another idea to refinance his project.

You see, the style of the time was the same as that of the Eiffel Tower. If you imagine these two structures, they are very similar. Now, this was a sensation, and smart as the owner of the café was, he realized that he could charge a toll to cross the bridge. So the tiny building on the left side of the river, which today houses the café “We love Coffee”, was built as a toll booth.

74. Take a Picture of the Old Town from Müllnersteg

Müllnersteg bridge, one of the many bridges in the north of the old town, is the place to take the perfect postcard picture of Salzburg. There you get both the city mountains, the river, the fortress, and all the church towers in the picture.

Müllnersteg is also the best place to stop before you start your hike up the Mönchsberg, as it’s the end of the Old Town opposite the fortress. I’m a big fan of going there early in the morning and then climbing the Mönchsberg and walking towards the rising sun.

75. Take a Picture of Salzburg from Kapuzinerberg Mountain

While the Mönchsberg is perfect for sunrise, the Kapuzinerberg is the ideal place for sunset, but the top of the stairs on the Kapuzinerberg is also one of the most iconic viewpoints in Salzburg. You have a bit of distance from the main old city around the Cathedral and get the full panoramic view from up there.

Here is an  article on the best Viewpoints in Salzburg .

76. Stroll along the famous Getreidegasse Street

There is also no way around Getreidegasse. Not only is Mozart’s birthplace located there, and Getreidegasse is the most famous street in Salzburg, but Salzburg’s old town is small, and you will have to pass through Getreidegasse several times. Getreidegasse is a shopping street known for the early wrought-iron signs in front of the stores. In history, these signs were necessary because most people were illiterate. Today, it is all protected as part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site.

77. Take a look at the Kulstrunk Panorama at the City Hall

The striking square tower with the flags and the clock in Getreidegasse does not belong to a church for once. This is the old town hall. The town hall is public. Inside there are, for example, a police station and an art gallery. The building is old, but the interior has been renovated in a modern way with a fancy staircase and other artistic refinements.

The highlight of the town hall in Getreidegasse is a painting from 1916, located on the second floor. The so-called Kulstrunk Panorama is a real gem and can be viewed free of charge. This is one of the secrets to discover, and you wouldn’t find it if no one told you about it. Now that you know about it go visit!

78. Take a Horse Carriage Ride

Well, you can if you have the money and fancy a horse-drawn carriage. I’ve never tried it myself, but indeed should one day. When I do, I’ll update this post with my experiences. For me, it’s one of the things on a long bucket list simply because Salzburg is my life, and I want to experience everything there is to experience. If it’s on your agenda too (maybe because riding the horse carriage is what they did in “The Sound of Music”), go for it!

79. Enter the Parking inside Mönchsberg Mountain

On each side of the concert hall, you will find entrances to the parking lot inside the Mönchsberg. Even if you think it’s just a parking lot, it’s worth taking a look inside. The tunnel system is vast. In the past, there was even a newspaper stand and a tobacco stand in these tunnels. It becomes awe-inspiring, however, when you learn what these tunnels were in history.

Look at the green steel doors between the segments of the tunnel system. These tunnels were built initially as bomb shelters during World War II. Even though it looks like there was no damage in Salzburg, almost half of the buildings in the old city were damaged or destroyed in 1945, including, for example, the dome of Salzburg Cathedral.

80. Toss a Coin into the Horse Pond

Okay, don’t do that. Nobody does, except maybe a few misguided tourists. But go and visit the horse pond. It is located at the beginning of the concert hall. The reason it exists is that historically the Concert Hall was the Archbishop’s riding school, and the horses had to be cleaned before they went into the stables and the ring. This worked much like a car wash. There is water inside, and the horses went in one side and came out the other side of the pond.

81. See the View from the Rooftop of Unipark University

The Unipark in Nonntal is a modern university building on the border between the old town and the city’s new parts. The building is mostly made of concrete and glass. Universities in Austria are public, and you can enter the building and walk around. 

The library in the basement is worth seeing, but the highlight is the roof terrace. The entire roof is walkable. You can walk around and have different views of the mountains, the fortress, and the Nonnberg monastery. If you want to eat and drink up there, there is a student cafe and restaurant. I like those kinds of places because that’s wherein a touristy city you can experience how it is living in the city.

82. Visit Lehen and the Public Library of Salzburg

When people ask me about the secrets of Salzburg, I always say that there are none. The old town is small, and even the places I call “off the beaten path” are more or less known. To find the alternative Salzburg and places that are unknown to tourists, you would have to go to areas where there are no real points of interest. This is precisely the point of this recommendation.

Lehen is a residential area where the percentage of immigrants is high. Therefore, there are lots of Kebab places. Our goal here is to go down Ignaz Harrer Straße, the main street in Lehen, and turn right at the end. There you will find the city library of Salzburg. This library is a work of art in modern architecture. Pretty. There are two things you should do in the city library. One is to explore the library. The other is to take the elevator to the café inside the exposed tower to enjoy the view.

83. Visit Hellbrunn Castle and get wet at the Trick Fountains

The main attraction in Hellbrunn is the trick fountains. Until I revisited them in 2018, I thought they were only for children. It turned out, however, they are also recommended for adults. The way to see them is by joining a guided tour. If you have a Salzburg Card, which I recommend, the tour is included, as well as the bus to Hellbrunn.

The tour lasts about 45 minutes. You learn about the fountains’ history and purpose, the mechanical theater, and all the grottos and statues. If you are not careful, you might get wet. There are several things to see and do at Hellbrunn , including the castle, the Folklore Museum, the Salzburg Zoo, and The Sound of Music Gazebo. If you want to get more out of your trip, I recommend renting a bike to cycle along Hellbrunn Alley. This is the most bike-friendly part of one of the most bike-friendly cities in Austria.

84. Visit the Folklore Museum in Hellbrunn

The folklore museum is inside the Monatsschlössl, the small yellow palace on Hellbrunner Berg mountain. This castle is said to have been built due to a bet between the archbishop and an archduke. The archduke stopped by Salzburg on a journey. Because he had to settle for only a part of Hellbrunn castle as his quarter, the Salzburg archbishop promised that there would be a separate guest house upon his return.

Monatsschlössl means monthly castle, but probably it took a bit longer to build it. Nowadays, the castle houses the Folklore museum of Salzburg. You can get familiar with customs and traditions and learn about the Trachten, the traditional Austrian clothes. For most of you, the folklore museum won’t be worth the trip to Hellbrunn, but there are so many other things to do and see in Hellbrunn , and you might as well visit the Folklore Museum while you are there.

85. Visit the Salzburg Zoo in Hellbrunn

Hellbrunn Zoo in Salzburg is considered one of the most beautiful zoos in the world. It runs along the rock face of Hellbrunn Mountain, where the vultures breed. The animals at the zoo in Salzburg are like anywhere else. Bears and rhinos, mountain goats, and zebras. As with so many other attractions, you should visit it if you have a Salzburg Card if you are a fan of zoos, or just want to check off everything there is to do in Salzburg.

86. See the Red Bull Airplane Collection at Hangar 7

Did you know that the founder of Red Bull, Dietrich Mateschitz, is from Salzburg? The Red Bull headquarters are in Fuschl in the lake district, about 20 minutes from Salzburg, and the media house is also on the outskirts of the city. These places can’t be visited, but Hangar 7, near the airport, has his private collection of cars, helicopters, and planes on display in a fancy building, and it’s free to visit.

It’s also home to Salzburg’s most expensive restaurant, Ikarus, where the best chefs from around the world take turns for a period of time. The hangar is only a 15-minute bus ride away and can be entered for free. You are allowed to take pictures inside, but you are not allowed to publish these pictures anywhere, which was my only disappointment.

87. Buy Expensive Clothes for Cheaper at the Designer Outlet

The designer outlet, next to the Salzburg airport, houses over 100 stores from Hugo Boss to Samsonite. Most of them are expensive brands, so your shopping won’t be cheap either, but all of the products are available at a reduced price. You can make a bargain compared to stores selling the same brands in the old town of Salzburg or anywhere else, really.

88. Go on a Shopping Spree to Europark Mall

The largest shopping center in Salzburg has about 130 stores and restaurants, including IKEA. It has its own train stop on the S3 regional line in the direction of Freilassing. It can therefore be easily reached from Salzburg’s central train station in less than 10 minutes. If shopping is your thing and you want to visit the most prominent shopping center in Salzburg, this is the place to do it.

89. Gamble at the Salzburg Casino in Kleßheim

Your recommendations are becoming more and more dubious, you might say. Well, gambling is legal in Austria, and as in many other countries, the Austrian state has a monopoly on it. That’s no reason to gamble, right. But in Salzburg, the location of the casino would be a reason. The casino in Salzburg is one of the Baroque summer palaces that the archbishops had built.

Klessheim Palace, near the soccer stadium and Europark shopping center, is largely unknown to tourists, even though it is no less attractive than other castles such as Leopoldskron and Hellbrunn. Since everyone has to wear formal clothes, you will feel like you are at a nobleman’s ball in this 18th-century castle. By the way, you can rent the suit, and you can order the casino shuttle that will pick you up from the center of Salzburg for free.

Museums to visit in Salzburg

90. visit the salzburg museum in the new residence.

The Salzburg Museum was the first history museum in Salzburg. It already existed in the 19th century and is the place to go if you want to dive deep into Salzburg’s history. There is always a temporary exhibition, while on the upper floors, you can see themed rooms, the archiepiscopal state rooms, and general Salzburg history. Again. If you have a Salzburg Card, the Salzburg Museum is a must-see.

91. Take a look at the Salzburg Panorama in the Salzburg Museum

The panorama is housed and integrated into the Salzburg Museum. Why does it get its own number? Because it is, in my opinion, something of its own. The Salzburg Panorama is a 25-meter long painting from the beginning of the 19th century. In the museum, you stand in a room surrounded by the painting. If you don’t have a Salzburg Card and don’t visit the Salzburg Museum, you can still pay €4.50 to only see the panorama.

92. Visit Domquartier Museum in the Old Residence

The Domquartier opened in 2013 as a new museum in the old Residenz. Before that, there was already the Residenzgalerie and the Staterooms, but now you can also enter parts of the Cathedral and St. Peter’s monastery, which is connected to the old Residenz via the vaults. Therefore, the Domquartier is a must for anyone with a Salzburg Card and anyone who likes museums.

93. Visit the Catacombs at Saint Peter’s Cemetery

When you visit St. Peter’s Cemetery, you will notice caves in the rocks on the side of the hill. We call them catacombs, but they are not catacombs as you know them from other cities. According to historians, the catacombs in Salzburg are not burial places but were caves where early Christians prayed. Perhaps as early as the time of the Romans.

The cemetery of St. Peter is a must-see in Salzburg. Mozart’s sister’s grave is located right at the entrance of the cemetery. Therefore, the catacombs are definitely worth a visit if you have a Salzburg Card because it’s again included. There are two chapels in the catacombs and beautiful views from the windows of the caves. Otherwise, there is nothing spectacular, it’s not a must, but even without a Salzburg Card, the entrance costs only a few euros.

94. Visit the Natural Science Museum

The Natural Science Museum was my favorite museum as a kid. Heck, it’s every kid’s favorite museum. But seriously, it’s great for kids, but also interesting for adults. Parts of the museum are just like they were when I was a kid, about 25 years ago. In contrast, other parts like the Science Center are modern and let museum visitors experiment and participate. Especially with a Salzburg Card and enough time, this is not to be missed.

95. Follow the Footsteps of the Author Stefan Zweig

Stefan Zweig was an Austrian writer who lived through the turn of the 19th century and the First World War. His most famous books deal with these themes. Before the Nazis came to power, Stefan Zweig fled from Salzburg to England and then to Brazil, where he committed suicide in 1942. While Zweig’s villa was on the Kapuzinerberg, there is the Stefan Zweig Center in the Edmundsburg on the Mönchsberg.

If you know Stefan Zweig, want to learn about him or are interested in literature, you can visit the center. There is a small exhibition with books and other information. Be aware that they charge €4. The last time I was there, I didn’t realize it at first because there was no sign. Across the river, on the Capuchin Hill, you will find Stefan Zweig’s stumbling stone in front of the villa and a monument next to the Capuchin monastery.

96. Find out about the Poet Georg Trakl and the Club 27

Unknown among the young generation, Trakl was the real deal during his time. He is considered one of the most important Austrian expressionist poets. Unfortunately, he was drafted into World War I in 1914 and committed suicide with an overdose of cocaine. This would make him a member of Club 27 along with Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin, Kurt Cobain, Amy Winehouse, and others. All troubled artists who died of drugs at the age of 27.

Anyway. There is the Trakl memorial at his birthplace at Waagplatz 1 in Salzburg. If you are interested in literature or just interested, visit it! I’m just not sure how interesting German poetry can really be to English speakers. Again, if you have a Salzburg Card, you can find out for free. The memorial center is included in the Salzburg Card. Also, the courtyard where you find the museum’s entrance is worth checking out.

97. Visit the Sound of Music Museum in Getreidegasse (permanently closed in 2020)

Following the film’s hype, there are more and more Sound of Music related offers for tourists in Salzburg. The Sound of Music Museum opened in 2018, and of course, I visited it immediately. To be honest, I wasn’t expecting much but was pleasantly surprised. It doesn’t feel like a tourist trap at all.

The people who run the museum are the people who run the hotel in the house in Aigen where the Trapp family actually lived. They have put together a collection of things to help you understand the real story behind the film – audio and video materials, as well as souvenirs. The entrance fee of € 8 is fair, but not cheap, and the museum is included in the Salzburg Card anyway.

98. Visit the Museum of Modern Art on Mönchsberg

The museum of modern art in Salzburg was a topic of great controversy and remains so. If you are into contemporary art, go visit! If you have a Salzburg card, you might want to visit as well.

If neither is the case, but you still want to see modern art, here is an alternative. Go and explore the city by navigating the contemporary artworks of the Salzburg foundation on a “Walk of Modern Art”! These are outdoors, spread throughout the city, and can be visited free of charge.

Here is  my guide to the artworks by the Salzburg Foundation.

99. Visit the Toy Museum

The Toy Museum is, of course, for children. Or adults who are young at heart. When I visited, I was surprised at how fascinating the theme can be and how well the material is put together. In keeping with the theme, everything is shown playfully, and there’s plenty of room for kids (or adults) to actually play. Definitely recommended if you have a Salzburg card or kids.

100. Visit the Christmas Museum

The Christmas Museum is not as traditional as it may sound. It opened in 2017 after the previous tenant, a café, moved out. But the collections on display are original. They display items that show Christmas as it was celebrated throughout history. These items were collected by a single person over a 40-year period. The museum is open all year round and not only around Christmas. Like all other museums, it is included in the Salzburg Card. Especially in December, when the Christmas markets take place, it is a great way to get more background knowledge.

101. Learn about Water in Salzburg at the Water Museum

Tap water in Salzburg is drinkable. Everywhere and always. The water in Salzburg comes from the mountains, and the quality is excellent. We are proud of our water, but most Salzburgers don’t know that there is even a museum about water on the Mönchsberg. You can probably imagine that this museum is not a must-see, but a walk on the Mönchsberg is recommended anyway, and if you have a Salzburg Card, the museums are free.

102. Take a Tour with Beer Tasting at Austria’s biggest private brewery

The Salzburg Card includes public transportation and admission to the museum at Stiegl Brauwelt. Stiegl is the largest private brewery in Austria and was founded in 1492, the year Columbus discovered America. You’ll see a beer film at the brewery museum, get a tour of the production, and see lots of advertising. In the end, you’ll get free beer samples in the restaurant.

Guided Tours and Activities

103. join me for a free walking tour.

This does not need any explanation. This website you are reading is the Free Walking Tour Blog. If you want me to personally introduce you to Salzburg on one of our tip-based tours, just check the Free Walking Tour schedule !

104. Attend a Guided Tour at the Concert Hall

The concert halls are only accessible during concerts, the Salzburg Festival, and the afternoon guided tour at 2 pm. These tours last about an hour. An expert guide will show you at least two of the three concert halls and tell you about the history of the Salzburg Festival. In case you didn’t know. One of the concert halls is where the Edelweiss song from “Sound of Music” was performed.

105. Go on a Sound of Music Bus Tour

Whether the Sound of Music Tour is a must-do in Salzburg depends on your personal preferences. For many visitors, it is the most critical activity. The tour does not include the city center because that is a pedestrian zone, but it will take you to Hellbrunn, Leopoldskron, and the Wedding Church in Mondsee in the Lake District. This makes it a great addition to one of my tours, which are only in the old town.

106. Take a Sound of Music Bicycle Tour

The Fräulein Marias bike tours take you to Leopoldskron and Hellbrunn and thus to the Gazebo and the two houses used in the film. It’s a fun, active, and highly entertaining way to explore the filming locations with a guide and see some of the surrounding areas of Salzburg.

107. Take a Tandem Paragliding Flight from Gaisberg Mountain

Tandem flights are an expensive activity, but I think everyone should do them at least once in their life. If you are afraid of heights, don’t worry. I am, and I have done three such flights. When you glide like this, the altitude feels different. It’s one of the greatest feelings. The operator of these flights in Salzburg, Wolfgang, is a fantastic person and paragliding pilot. If you can afford it, consider it!

108. Take a River Cruise on the Salzach River

There is not much to see along the river in Salzburg, but the river cruise is informative, entertaining, and again included in the Salzburg Card. You travel upstream towards Hellbrunn, and on your return, the boat waltzes on the river before docking.

Additional Resources

• The Complete Guide to Salzburg Cards in case you decide to get a Salzburg Card
• The Best Day Trips from Salzburg in case you wish to explore the surroundings of Salzburg
• The 15 Must-See Sights in Salzburg for more information on the most important Attractions
• The Best Places to stay in Salzburg in case you are still looking for accommodation

My name is Gerhard, Founder of Free Walking Tour Salzburg. I am an intrepid traveler myself and understand the passion for adventure that independent travelers feel. I love to interact with travelers, share stories, answer questions, recommend places to eat, and offer ideas of things to see and do.

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Tourist Map of Salzburg

Beautiful Salzburg, whose name means salt castle, is the fourth largest city in Austria and the birthplace of the famous Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. We elaborated this tourist guide specially to give you to know the palaces and castles, the summer musical festivals, the natural landscapes at the foot of the Alps, places that make the place a romantic and calm option to discover during a trip to Austrian lands. It is said that, just walking its streets is like visiting an open-air museum. This is a metropolis where art, literature and gastronomy fairs abound.

• 1 Tourist Map of Salzburg
• 2 Tourist Guide to Salzburg
• 3 What to see in Salzburg
• 4 Salzburg Hotel Map

Salzburg is truly a tourist city, a baroque jewel with a deep-rooted mountain character. Bordered by the river Salzach, a few meters from the Alps, this small city is located 300 kilometers from Vienna, the capital of Austria and is the capital of the federal state of Bundesland. The land of the Mozartkugel, a pistachio cake, wrapped in praline and covered with dark chocolate, has a long history dating back to the Bronze Age, when Celtic peoples inhabited these slopes. It later belonged to the Roman Empire and was an important commercial and political centre at this time, which fell into decline shortly afterwards, until Saint Rupert founded a new town governed by archbishop princes until the nineteenth century. Salzburg’s tourist attractions cater for all tastes, both refined and simple.

While it is true that people can enjoy the majesty of palaces and an old historic centre, which was declared a world heritage site under the protection of UNESCO and whose streets demonstrate the true charm of a multicultural city, they can also find fun in visiting peaceful and unique places to eat peacefully and enjoy the beautiful natural landscapes, as well as participate in the more than eleven festivals that take place in the city, especially in the summer season and whose themes include film, literature, poetry, among others. The best time to visit Salzburg is in the summer, as the temperature is usually friendlier to visitors and stays between 17 and 25 degrees on average during the day and drops to ten or eleven degrees at night. Winters are generally cold, with temperatures dropping to zero degrees and, in the event of snow, down to -7 degrees. It is capable of shining by itself and delighting its visitors with the magnificence of its gastronomy, especially in terms of pastries, since it is the place of origin of delicious cakes, which have no equal in the rest of Europe.

Tourist Guide to Salzburg

To travel to Salzburg, a city connected both to Vienna, the capital of Austria, as well as close to Munich, an impressive city in Germany, is to walk through narrow streets that, at certain times of the year such as Christmas, are filled with a unique charm that they acquire with the first snowflakes that fall on the city. But it is not only at this time that you can enjoy the city, but also in summer with its festivals, which are famous throughout the world and in the rest of the year with the large number of restaurants, bars and places to taste the best of the cuisine. The museums, palaces such as Hellbrunn, the number of squares, Mozart’s House and the option of walking or cycling tours make it a charming and peaceful tourist destination, full of cultural experience and good food. Walking through the historical centre is like being on the stage of a fairy tale, with structures that preserve the best of the Middle Ages, between the Baroque and the Romantic.

What to see in Salzburg

Mirabell palace.

The Mirabell Palace is the first option if you want to tour a beautiful baroque infrastructure, with luxurious rooms as well as beautiful and spacious gardens. Currently, part of this building houses the city council offices, that is, the office of the mayor and the city councilors. Also, some of its halls, such as the Marble Hall, are used to give the best parties and serve as a stage for majestic weddings and concerts. The gardens, whose design dates back to 1690, feature baroque-style geometric shapes and are aligned with the cathedral and other buildings.

Mozart’s Birthplace

Mozart’s Birth House is one of the highlights of the tour of Salzburg. The 9th house on Getreidegasse Street was the place where Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Salzburg’s most illustrious son, was born, 27 January 1756. Mozart lived with his parents Leopold and Anna Maria and his sister Nannerl for twenty-six years. In 1773 they moved to the Mozart Residence at the “Makartplatz”. Today, the residence is one of the most visited museums in the city and a true place of worship for fans of the world-famous artist and composer.

Hohensalzburg Fortress

Hohensalzburg Fortress is the best-preserved castle in Central Europe and is the annual visitor centre for thousands of tourists who choose Salzburg as their holiday destination. The structure is located on the Festungsberg mountain and from its location you can see an impressive view over the baroque rooftops of the city. Its objective was to be the place from where the monarchy and the principality were offered protection from the attacks of enemies, with this intention it was built in the year 1077, but five hundred years later it was managed to finish its infrastructure until achieving the appearance that it has at the moment.

Hellbrunn Palace

There are over four hundred years of history at Hellbrunn Palace. It was designed and built as a palace of rest and recreation for the royalty and impacts both locals and visitors with so-called water games. This summer residence was built quickly, between 1612 and 1615. The builder Santino Solari was responsible for its construction, who also built the Salzburg Cathedral. With Hellbrunn Palace, Solari created one of the most ostentatious buildings of the late Renaissance north of the Alps. Being located on the slopes of the HellbrunnerBerg mountain, water became part of the palace architecture and from there games were designed with which the princes offered entertainment to their guests.

Salzburg Cathedral

Salzburg Cathedral is one of the most visited monuments in the small Austrian city. It’s a question of a baroque building constructed in the 17th century in honor to Rupert of Salzburg, founder of the city. It’s decorated with a front, which constitutes one of his principal attributes, as well as a huge dome of Italian style. The Salzburg Cathedral is the most emblematic religious building in the city. It is also the most important monument of baroque art in the northern Alps. Its structure is a symbol of resistance to adversity as it remains unscathed and impeccable despite a large number of fires that could devastate it.

Salzburg Zoo

The Salzburg Zoo has 140 species of animals and 1,200 specimens on some fourteen hectares of land, divided into environments according to the continent from which the animals come. There are exotic species such as the white rhino or the red panda, there are also spaces according to the area of the world. For example, there are jungle environments and a lion’s den, there are areas that represent Eurasia and animals very typical of countries like India and Australia. All the animals are kept in environments that are as close as possible to their natural habitat. That is why, besides being a family outing, this is an ideal excursion to learn about natural history and world fauna.

Salzburg Museum

The Salzburg museum has a number of features that make it a great choice for visitors. In addition to impressive collections, works of art and objects of interest, it has a multimedia interaction section that is a very valuable and educational source of information. The museum is located in the NeueResidenz or New Residence, a building belonging to the royal family of Salzburg. The exhibits cover themes that highlight the enrichment and development of the city and the contributions of its rulers. There are samples covering areas of literature, poetry, science, architecture, photography, music, among others. Another room shows the development of life in the principality, in the areas of art, culture and history and everything is displayed in the exhibition “MythosSalzburg”. These are two of the main attractions of a museum that will make knowledge an enjoyment for every visitor.

Getreidegasse

The Getreidegasse, or Grain Street, is the most important area in the historic centre of Salzburg, it is the place where the traditional and the modern are perfectly blended, for the enjoyment of the visitor. In this area you can visit Mozart’s Birthplace, walking through these streets is a walk where you can appreciate traditional places and places where users can enjoy and acquire the latest in fashion and international avant-garde brands. Besides, the inns that are settled in the place are really historical places. The architecture is really beautiful, magnificent portals, decorated with works of art and places where the best of Salzburg’s gastronomy is offered.

DomQuartier

Salzburg’s DomQuartier is also known as the “Cathedral Quarter”. It was the power center of the monarchy-archbishopric that ruled the principality for centuries. This street forms a trilogy in which the cathedral, the library and the palace stand out, as well as a network of museums that are worth visiting and touring. With just one entrance, visitors can marvel at five different museums that show the history and evolution of Salzburg. There are several examples of the most representative baroque art in the city on display. Although this route was unjustly closed for years, today justice has been done and locals and visitors alike can finally visit what was once the centre of power in Salzburg.

Salzburg Puppet Theatre

The Salzburg Puppet Theatre is considered one of the best in the world and the most representative in this area. It is a show with a well-achieved performance, with a unique artistic and aesthetic rigor. In the Puppet Theatre the audience can watch ballets, storytelling, operas and operettas, musicals and all kinds of shows in which puppets can come to life and delight with unique movements. They are a century old and, despite being puppets, they present works from the universal classical repertoire such as Mozart’s The Magic Flute, the Salzburg classic, The Sound of Music, Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker ballet, Shakespeare’s Midsummer Night’s Dream or Saint-Exupéry’s The Little Prince.

Salzburg Hotel Map

The best option for travelers who want to visit Salzburg is to stay in hotels that are located in the central area of the city. This will give them better access to the most recommended sights and help them to get around more easily. There are 37 five-star and 224 four-star hotels in the city. Prices range from $17 per night for the cheap ones to $90 or $100 per night for the more expensive ones, which include first class services. The Hotel Sacher is one of the first options, which stands out on the list of recommendations because it has good facilities, the most comfortable and an impeccable service. In addition, they highlight the attention to their personality. It is a five-star hotel. Another good option is the Lasserhoff Salzburg, especially because of its location in the city centre, which gives access to the train stations and the historic city centre.  But, if you are looking for more options, there are also guest houses and rental apartments available.

Video of Salzburg’s most impressive sights

Poway Symphonette's European tour reunites…

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Pomerado News Pomerado News News

Poway symphonette’s european tour reunites musicians who share a love of music, tour held june 30 to july 7 in prague and salzburg.

Violinist Gayle McCutchan became acquainted with artistic director Ulli Reiner around 2014 when she joined the Poway Symphony Orchestra. Soon after, she also joined the Poway Symphonette and traveled with it to China in 2016 and Europe during its 2018 and 2019 tours.

But after the energy executive retired and moved from Rancho Santa Fe to northern Idaho a few years ago, she said she thought that part of her life was in the past. But then Reiner called her last September asking if she would like to join the group for its June 30 to July 7 tour to Prague in the Czech Republic and Salzburg, Austria.

“I missed being part of the group,” said McCutchan, who immediately said yes even though that meant making four trips to San Diego in June for rehearsals. “It was totally worth it.”

Performing in the Mirabell Gardens in Salzburg where “The Sound of Music” movie was filmed “was a dream come true for this amateur musician,” said McCutchan, who began playing violin at age 9 and continued throughout her adult life.

Erica Alexander first met Reiner as a 3-year-old when her parents signed her up for violin lessons. Even though her family moved from Poway to La Jolla when she started seventh grade, Alexander kept studying with Reiner through the Palomar College Youth Orchestra until leaving for college at 18.

Last year, Alexander was looking for a violin teacher for her 5-year-old daughter and contacted Reiner. Her daughter is still not taking lessons, but the reconnection led to Reiner inviting Alexander to join the Symphonette on its tour even though she had not played her violin in two decades.

She started rehearsing with the group in January.

“It was like riding a bike, not too hard,” Alexander said about playing the violin again. “It had been in the back of my mind that maybe I’d start again, but then about 20 years passed.”

Alexander said learning about the Poway Symphonette’s upcoming trip to Europe was the key factor in her decision.

“I went on a similar trip in middle school with Reiner to Austria and … thought it would be a fun idea,” she said.

Because her husband and three children, ages 11, 8 and 5, had never seen her play, Alexander decided to make it a family trip and bring them along. They were among 10 family members of musicians who went on the tour.

“It is a unique opportunity to go to Europe and play in the cathedrals,” Alexander said. “We were at a music festival, so it is special playing with other groups in a united feeling … it’s moving.”

The trip was a mixture of performances and sightseeing. Everyone paid for their travel, though Reiner said donations received at concerts throughout the year paid for the rental of large instruments, such as cellos.

The Poway Symphonette performed at the St. Nicholas Church in Prague after touring the Prague Jewish Corner. The group also toured the Castle District and played in a Friendship Concert with the Copenhagen Municipal Brass Band at the Church of St. Martin in The Wall. They toured Prague Old Town, famous for its Astronomical Clock, and many churches and other buildings built in the Middle Ages.

In Salzburg, the group participated in the 24th International Cantus music and Cultural Festival. This is its fourth year in the festival where last year it was named the festival’s “Orchestra in Residence,” which meant it performed the festival’s opening and closing pieces.

The 15 musicians also joined three choirs from Beijing, China; Chester, Maryland; and Cyprus; along with a string orchestra from Hudson, Ohio — a combined 250 musicians and singers performing together.

In addition to the Salzburg Cathedral, the festival had performances in the Great University Hall and Mirabell Gardens.

Among the musical selections was the “Song of Peace” composed by Jan Steffen Bechtold, the festival’s artistic director. According to Reiner, it “represents the mission of bringing peace to the world through music and international cultural awareness to all.”

While in Salzburg, the group also toured Mozart’s birthplace, Hohensalzburg Castle, and other historic areas of the city.

Reiner said she enjoys leading the tours because she has relatives in Salzburg, knows the area well and sees the festival – and being part of an international music group – as beneficial.

“It teaches compassion, empathy and discipline,” Reiner said. “Those are the three main benefits of music.”

Her favorite memory was interacting with the choir children from China, whom she called “adorable.” The Symphonette presented each child with an American flag on the Fourth of July and she said they eagerly waved around their gifts.

McCutchan said she is already planning on returning to Salzburg with the Symphonette next year. Alexander, who still lives in La Jolla, said she wants to continue performing locally and go on tour again, but not make the tours an annual thing because of other family commitments.

“(Playing violin) was such a big part of my youth, so it brings back the feeling that I love making music. Classical music is beautiful, special,” Alexander said. “It is a challenge, but playing is fun.”

A special memory for McCutchan was getting asked by Reiner to represent the group by reading Psalm 150 during the ecumenical service that was part of the festival for all the musicians.

“It is about praising the Lord through music,” McCutchan said. “It was really special to represent the group from the U.S. praising God in the cathedral where its walls heard Mozart. Now I am here, hundreds of years later praising God with music during an ecumenical celebration.”

The Poway Symphonette operates through Poway Unified School District’s Adult School Education. Its members perform throughout the year at many local venues including local libraries, retirement homes, hospice centers, places of worship and through outreach programs. For details, visit PowaySymphonette.com.

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• Events Calendar

School of Listening Differently

Exhibition of the International Summer Academy for Fine Arts. School of Listening Differently is an exhibition and a series of live events, with the participation of Ari Benjamin Meyers, Brandon LaBelle, Sunny Pfalzer and Netta Weiser.

Opening on Monday, July 22, 2024, 6:00 p.m

Opening hours: Mon-Fri, 2pm-6pm, Sat+Sun, 11-15 Uhr Closed on public holidays.

Exhibition period

• 22. July 2024 - 27. August 2024 Sa/Su from 11:00 O'clock Mo/Tu/We/Th/Fr from 14:00 O'clock

Find in close proximity ... your hotel at the best price! See offers

Impressions

This might also interest you:

Mozart in the Marble Hall of Mirabell Palace

Enjoy finest chamber music and orchestra concerts with compositions of Mozart and his contemporaries.

Mozart in concert: daily concerts

Afternoon concerts of the enchanting music for piano and violin from W.A.Mozart.

Plan your visit

Here you will find your ideal accommodations, sightseeing tours of Salzburg, special events and tickets, along with all the benefits of the Salzburg Card.

Book guided city tours and excursions in and around Salzburg online:

The many-and-varied cultural events represent the heart & soul of Salzburg. Book your tickets right here:

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