Welcome to Salzburg, a city that seamlessly blends rich history, stunning architecture, and musical heritage. Nestled in the heart of Austria, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is renowned for its baroque Old Town, the birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, and as the backdrop for ‘The Sound of Music’. From the majestic Salzburg Cathedral to the charming Mirabell Palace and Gardens, the city offers a plethora of attractions that cater to every traveler’s interests. Whether you’re planning to spend one day in Salzburg or embark on a longer journey, the Salzburg Card provides an excellent way to explore the city’s museums, historical sites, and cultural landmarks.
Salzburg’s allure extends beyond its city center, with breathtaking views of the surrounding Alps and a rich cultural calendar highlighted by the world-famous Salzburg Festival. As you wander through the narrow streets of the Old Town, you’ll discover one of the oldest bakeries in Europe, vibrant beer gardens, and the innovative DomQuartier Salzburg. The city’s charm is equally captivating in winter, when Christmas markets transform the squares into magical wonderlands. Whether you’re a fan of classical music, a history buff, or simply looking for a romantic getaway, Salzburg offers an unforgettable experience that will leave you wanting to return time and time again.
🏡 Where to Stay in Salzburg
- 💎 Luxury: Hotel Sacher Salzburg
- 🏰 Unique Experience: Hotel Schloss Mönchstein
- 🍺 Traditional Austrian: Zum Hirschen
- 📍 City Center: Hotel Hofwirt
- 💸 Budget-friendly: Hotel Salzburg Mitte
👩🏻 Best Guided Tour
⭐ Best Activities
- The Original Sound of Music Tour in Salzburg – Experience one of the best things to do in Salzburg with this iconic tour. Visit filming locations from ‘The Sound of Music’, including Mirabell Gardens, Leopoldskron Palace, and the gazebo at Hellbrunn Palace. This tour offers a perfect blend of Salzburg’s history and movie magic, making it a must-visit attraction for fans and first-time visitors alike.
- Apple Strudel and Salzburger Nockerl Cooking Class – Immerse yourself in Austrian culinary traditions with this hands-on cooking class in Salzburg. Learn to make two of the city’s famous desserts while discovering the history of Salzburg’s cuisine. It’s a delicious way to experience the culture of this Austrian city and a great activity for food lovers.
- Classical Concert in the Marble Hall of Mirabell Palace – Enjoy a night of classical music in one of Salzburg’s most beautiful venues. This concert in the Marble Hall of Mirabell Palace, where the Mozart family once performed, offers a glimpse into the rich musical history of Salzburg. It’s a perfect evening activity after exploring the Salzburg Old Town.
- Hallstatt, Lakes and Mountains District & Salt Mine Tour – Discover the stunning landscapes surrounding Salzburg with this day trip to Hallstatt and the Lake District. Visit the world’s oldest salt mine and explore the picturesque village of Hallstatt. This tour is ideal for those looking to see more of Austria beyond Salzburg city.
- Day Trip to Hallstatt, Lakes and Mountains 5 Fingers – Experience the natural beauty of Austria with this day trip from Salzburg. Visit the charming village of Hallstatt, enjoy breathtaking views from the 5 Fingers viewing platform, and explore the scenic Lake District. It’s one of the top things to do for nature lovers visiting Salzburg.
Best Things To Do in Salzburg 🌟
1. Explore Salzburg’s Old Town
Stepping into Salzburg’s Old Town is like walking onto a movie set – and in a way, you are! This UNESCO World Heritage site was the backdrop for ‘The Sound of Music’ and it’s easy to see why. The narrow, winding streets are lined with charming shops and cafes, each one more inviting than the last.
I love getting lost in these medieval alleyways, stumbling upon hidden courtyards and ornate fountains. Don’t miss Getreidegasse, the main shopping street where you’ll find the oldest bakery in Salzburg. The smell of fresh pretzels wafting through the air is simply irresistible!
⭐ Best tour
- Salzburg Old Town Walking Tour – Follow the footsteps of Mozart and explore the heart of Salzburg on a guided walking tour through its historic Old Town.
2. Visit Mozart’s Birthplace
As a classical music buff, visiting Mozart’s birthplace was a dream come true. This bright yellow house in the heart of the Old Town is where the musical genius was born and spent his early years. It’s now one of the most visited museums in Austria.
Inside, you’ll find an impressive collection of Mozart’s instruments, including his childhood violin. The rooms are set up to give you a glimpse into 18th-century life. I was particularly moved by seeing Mozart’s first piano – imagining the melodies that must have filled these rooms gave me goosebumps!
⭐ Best tour
- Salzburg: Old Town, Mozart, & Mirabell Gardens – Follow the Sound of Music and discover Mozart’s legacy in Salzburg. See the highlights of the Old Town and visit Mirabell Gardens with a licensed guide, who will share the city’s interesting history.
3. Hohensalzburg Fortress
Perched atop Festungsberg hill, Hohensalzburg Fortress is one of the largest medieval castles in Europe. It’s also one of the best-preserved, offering a fascinating look into Salzburg’s history. The views from up here are absolutely breathtaking – on a clear day, you can see all the way to the Alps!
I recommend taking the funicular up (it’s included in the Salzburg Card) and then walking down. The descent offers some of the most stunning panoramic views of Salzburg. Don’t forget to check out the marionette museum inside the fortress – it’s quirky and delightful!
⭐ Best activities
- Tour: Hohensalzburg Fortress Private Tour – Discover a millennium of history on a private tour of the Hohensalzburg Fortress, one of the largest medieval castles in Europe. Includes skip-the-line tickets and an exciting funicular ride. Extended option: see the Old Town and visit Salzburg Cathedral.
- Ticket online: Hohensalzburg Fortress Admission Ticket – Admire panoramic views of the city and the surrounding mountains. Use the funicular to enjoy the quickest and most comfortable way to reach Salzburg’s most dominant landmark.
4. Stroll through Mirabell Palace and Gardens
Mirabell Palace and its surrounding gardens are a feast for the eyes. Made famous by ‘The Sound of Music’, these meticulously manicured gardens are a perfect spot for a leisurely afternoon stroll. The geometric patterns of the flowerbeds are particularly impressive in spring when everything’s in full bloom.
I love visiting early in the morning when the gardens are quiet and misty. It’s the perfect time to snap some photos without the crowds. Don’t miss the Pegasus Fountain and the Dwarf Garden – they’re whimsical and make for great photo ops!
⭐ Best activities
- Tour: Salzburg: Palace Concert at the Marble Hall – UNESCO–listed Salzburg is famous for its classical music heritage, and for a live performance, there are few locations to match the Marble Hall in 17th-century Mirabell Palace.
- Ticket online: Mozart Classical Concert at Mirabell Palace Ticket – Experience a classical concert in the magnificent Marble Hall of Mirabell Palace!
5. Experience the Salzburg Cathedral
The Salzburg Cathedral, or Dom zu Salzburg, is a masterpiece of Baroque architecture. Its massive dome and twin towers dominate the city skyline. Step inside and you’ll be awestruck by the intricate frescoes and the sheer grandeur of the space.
If you’re lucky enough to visit during a service or concert, the acoustics are phenomenal. I once attended an organ recital here and the music seemed to reverberate through my entire body. It’s an experience I’ll never forget. Don’t forget to check out the crypt and the cathedral museum – they’re included with the Salzburg Card!
⭐ Best tour
- Salzburg Old Town, Fortress, Cathedral Tour – Experience the heart, history and heritage of Salzburg on a private tour of the Old Town. Visit the Mirabell Garden and see Mozart’s birthplace.
6. Discover the DomQuartier Salzburg
The DomQuartier is one of Salzburg’s newest attractions, but it’s quickly become one of my favorites. This museum complex offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of Salzburg’s prince-archbishops who once ruled the city.
As you wander through the State Rooms of the Residenz, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time. The opulent decor and priceless artworks are breathtaking. Don’t miss the view from the terrace connecting the Residenz to the Cathedral – it’s one of the best panoramas of the Old Town.
⭐ Best activities
- Tour: DomQuartier – Discover the cultural highlight in the heart of Salzburg with tickets to the DomQuartier. With the audio guide you can explore the states rooms of the Salzburg Residenz, the North Oratory, the Cathedral Museum, the Long Gallery, and St Peter´s Museum.
- Ticket online: DomQuartier Salzburg: Entry Ticket – Take an exciting audio-guided tour through Baroque history in Salzbur.
7. Take a Sound of Music Tour
Even if you’re not a die-hard fan of the movie, a Sound of Music tour is one of the best ways to see Salzburg and its surrounding areas. You’ll visit iconic filming locations while your guide regales you with behind-the-scenes stories.
My favorite stop is always the gazebo at Hellbrunn Palace where “Sixteen Going on Seventeen” was filmed. It’s incredibly romantic, especially in the soft evening light. Plus, the tour takes you to some of the most beautiful spots around Salzburg that you might otherwise miss.
⭐ Best tour
- The Original Sound of Music Tour in Salzburg – Relive your favorite scenes from the classic musical “The Sound of Music” on this Salzburg sightseeing tour. Visit filming sites around the city while your guide provides historical background on Salzburg’s top attractions and architectural jewels, including the gazebo where “Sixteen Going on Seventeen” was shot.
8. Visit the Salzburg Museum
For history buffs like me, the Salzburg Museum is a treasure trove. It offers a comprehensive look at the city’s art and cultural history, from Roman times to the present day.
What I love most about this museum is how interactive it is. There are plenty of multimedia displays that bring Salzburg’s past to life. The Panorama Passage, with its 360-degree painting of the city from 1829, is particularly impressive.
9. Enjoy the Hellbrunn Palace and Trick Fountains
Hellbrunn Palace is a bit south of Salzburg, but it’s well worth the short trip. This 17th-century pleasure palace is famous for its trick fountains, which are just as fun for adults as they are for kids.
Be prepared to get a little wet! The prince-archbishop who built Hellbrunn had a mischievous sense of humor, and the fountains are designed to surprise unsuspecting visitors. I always get a kick out of watching people’s reactions when they get sprayed unexpectedly.
⭐ Best tour
- Salzburg: Boat Ride to Hellbrunn and Palace Visit – See the imposing scenery of Salzburg and enjoy a boat ride on the Salzach river. Visit Hellbrunn Palace and let the famous trick fountains in the incredible palace gardens amaze you.
10. Experience the Salzburg Festival
If you’re lucky enough to visit Salzburg in summer, don’t miss the Salzburg Festival. It’s one of the world’s most prestigious classical music and drama festivals, attracting top performers from around the globe.
Even if you can’t get tickets to a performance, the atmosphere in the city during the festival is electric. Street performers fill the squares, and there’s a palpable buzz in the air. I love grabbing a coffee at one of the outdoor cafes and soaking in the festive atmosphere.
Things to Do with Kids in Salzburg 👦🏻
1. Visit the Salzburg Zoo
Nestled at the foot of the Hellbrunn mountain, Salzburg Zoo is a hidden gem that’s perfect for a family day out. We spent hours watching the playful snow leopards and giggling at the antics of the cheeky meerkats. The zoo’s natural setting makes it feel like you’re on a mini safari right in the heart of Salzburg.
2. Explore the Haus der Natur (House of Nature)
This interactive science museum is a hit with curious kids of all ages. My little ones were fascinated by the dinosaur exhibits and loved the hands-on experiments in the Science Center. The aquariums and reptile zoo add an extra element of excitement. It’s one of those rare attractions that’s both educational and genuinely fun.
3. Ride the Festungsbahn to Hohensalzburg Fortress
Kids love a good castle, and Hohensalzburg Fortress doesn’t disappoint. The funicular ride up to the fortress is an adventure in itself – my kids couldn’t stop grinning as we ascended high above the city. Once at the top, the panoramic views of Salzburg and the surrounding Alps are breathtaking. The fortress also houses a puppet museum that’s a hit with younger visitors.
⭐ Best activities
- Tour: VIP Dinner at Fortress Hohensalzburg – Make romantic memories in beautiful Salzburg during this dinner experience at Salzburg Fortress with Mozart concert. Take your seat with your significant other inside the 900-year-old Salzburg Fortress (Festung Hohensalzburg).
- Ticket online: Salzburg: Hohensalzburg Fortress Admission Ticket – Admire panoramic views of the city and the surrounding mountains. Use the funicular to enjoy the quickest and most comfortable way to reach Salzburg’s most dominant landmark.
4. Enjoy the Hellbrunn Palace Trick Fountains
If your kids love surprises (and don’t mind getting a bit wet), they’ll adore the trick fountains at Hellbrunn Palace. These 400-year-old water games are designed to catch visitors off guard with sudden sprays of water. The look of delighted shock on my kids’ faces when they got spritzed was priceless. It’s a unique experience that’s quintessentially Salzburg.
⭐ Best tour
- River Cruise to Hellbrunn, Palace & world-famous trick fountains – Admire medieval Salzburg from the water and discover one of the city’s top attractions on this 2.5-hour Hellbrunn Palace visit and Old Town river cruise. Hop aboard your sightseeing boat in Salzburg’s Old Town and cruise out onto the Salzach River with your guide.
Free Things to Do in Salzburg 💥
1. Walk along Getreidegasse
Getreidegasse is the beating heart of Salzburg’s Old Town, and strolling down this historic street is like stepping back in time. I love wandering here, taking in the ornate guild signs hanging above shops and feeling the cobblestones beneath my feet. The narrow passageways leading off the main street often hide charming courtyards – perfect for a moment of quiet in the bustling city center.
2. Hike Kapuzinerberg
For one of the best views in Salzburg, I always recommend hiking up Kapuzinerberg. This wooded hill in the city center offers a peaceful escape from the tourist crowds. The trail is well-marked and not too strenuous, rewarding you with panoramic views of the Old Town and the fortress. Keep an eye out for the stations of the cross along the way – they add a touch of history to your nature walk.
3. Enjoy the Views from Mönchsberg
Mönchsberg is another great spot for breathtaking city views, and it’s completely free to explore. I often pack a picnic and head up here for lunch with a view. The walk along the top of the hill takes you past the Museum of Modern Art (which has a fantastic terrace cafe if you want to splurge) and offers different perspectives of Salzburg at every turn.
4. Visit St. Peter’s Cemetery
St. Peter’s Cemetery, nestled at the foot of Mönchsberg, is one of the oldest and most beautiful graveyards in the world. It’s a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city, with ornate iron crosses and flower-laden graves. I find it particularly atmospheric in the early morning or at dusk when the soft light filters through the surrounding cliffs.
5. Explore the Salzburg University Area
The area around the University of Salzburg is full of life and free attractions. I love wandering through the university’s courtyards, checking out the beautiful Kollegienkirche (University Church), and people-watching in the lively Universitätsplatz. During term time, you might even catch a free concert or lecture at the university – a great way to experience local culture on a budget.
Seasonal Activities in Salzburg 🌞
Summer: Attend the Salzburg Festival
The Salzburg Festival, held annually from late July to late August, is one of the world’s most prestigious classical music and drama festivals. I’ve been lucky enough to attend a few times, and the atmosphere in the city during this period is simply electric. Even if you can’t snag tickets to a performance, the streets come alive with free outdoor concerts and events that are well worth including in your Salzburg sightseeing itinerary.
Autumn: Experience Rupertikirtag (Folk Festival)
Rupertikirtag, Salzburg’s largest folk festival, takes place every September in the heart of the Old Town. As I wander through the festival, the aroma of roasted almonds and traditional Austrian dishes fills the air, while the sound of folk music echoes through the streets. It’s one of the best ways to experience authentic Salzburg culture and is definitely worth including in your trip to Salzburg.
Winter: Explore Christmas Markets
Salzburg in winter is magical, especially when the Christmas markets pop up across the city from late November to December 26th. My favorite is the one in front of the Salzburg Cathedral – sipping glühwein while admiring the baroque architecture is an unforgettable Salzburg experience. These markets are often considered among the best Christmas markets in Europe and offer a perfect blend of festive cheer and local traditions.
Spring: Enjoy Easter Celebrations
Spring in Salzburg brings vibrant Easter celebrations, with the highlight being the Easter Festival held annually from Palm Sunday to Easter Monday. As I stroll through the Old Town, the sight of beautifully decorated Easter eggs and the sound of classical concerts create a truly magical atmosphere. It’s one of the top things to experience in Salzburg during this season and offers a unique glimpse into local traditions.
Day Trips from Salzburg 🗺
1. Visit Hallstatt
Just a short ride from Salzburg, Hallstatt is one of the most beautiful towns in Austria, if not the world. This picturesque village, nestled between mountains and a crystal-clear lake, looks like it’s straight out of a fairytale. I love wandering its narrow streets, visiting the ancient salt mines, and taking a boat ride on Lake Hallstatt. The view from the Skywalk is breathtaking – it’s one of those places that leaves you in awe of nature’s beauty.
⭐ Best tour
- Majestic Walking Tour of Hallstatt – Embark on a walking tour through Hallstatt, Austria, and become the hero of your own journey. Wander the historic Marktplatz, uncover treasures at the Hallstatt Museum, and gaze as the Alpine vistas unfold before you.
2. Explore the Eagle’s Nest
Perched high in the Bavarian Alps, the Eagle’s Nest offers a mix of dark history and stunning views. This former Nazi retreat, now a restaurant and viewpoint, is accessible via a thrilling bus ride up a steep mountain road. On a clear day, the panoramic views of the surrounding Alps and Salzburg in the distance are simply spectacular. It’s a sobering yet beautiful experience that I always recommend to history buffs.
⭐ Best tour
- Eagle's Nest in Berchtesgaden Tour from Salzburg – Journey through the stunning scenery of the Bavarian Alps on this half-day tour of the Eagle’s Nest, Hitler’s former mountain retreat, from Salzburg.
3. Discover the Werfen Ice Caves
The Werfen Ice Caves, or Eisriesenwelt, are the largest ice caves in the world and one of the most unique attractions near Salzburg. The journey there is an adventure in itself, involving a cable car ride and a short hike. Inside, you’ll find a magical world of ice formations illuminated by handheld carbide lamps. It’s cool (literally) and otherworldly – like stepping into a frozen fairyland.
⭐ Best tour
- Private Werfen Ice Cave and Golling Waterfall from Salzburg – Visit the Werfen Ice Cave, the world’s largest ice cave, and Golling waterfall, on this private 6-hour tour from Salzburg.
4. Explore Berchtesgaden National Park
Just across the border in Germany, Berchtesgaden National Park is a paradise for nature lovers. The emerald-green Königssee, surrounded by towering mountains, is the park’s crown jewel. I always recommend taking the electric boat to St. Bartholomä, a picturesque church on the lake’s shore. The echo demonstration mid-journey, where the boat captain plays a trumpet towards the rock faces, never fails to amaze.
⭐ Best tour
- From Salzburg: Private Tour of Konigssee and Berchtesgaden – Explore and Take a part of most romantic Village through the beauty of the Bavarian Alps to Berchtesgaden and Königssee.
5. Visit the Silent Night Chapel in Oberndorf
For music lovers and those interested in Christmas traditions, a trip to the Silent Night Chapel in Oberndorf is a must. This tiny chapel marks the spot where the famous Christmas carol “Silent Night” was first performed. Even if you visit outside the Christmas season, there’s something magical about standing in the place where this beloved song originated. The nearby Silent Night Museum offers fascinating insights into the song’s history and global impact.
⭐ Best tour
- Silent Night Oberndorf Christmas Eve Tour – Enjoy a magical Christmas Eve atmosphere celebrated at the Silent Night Chapel in Oberndorf. Home of world-famous Silent Night Christmas song being first performed at this tiny chapel.
FAQs about Things to Do in Salzburg ❔
What are the top 5 must-see attractions in Salzburg’s Old Town for visitors with only one day in the city?
The top 5 must-see attractions in Salzburg’s Old Town for a one-day visit include Hohensalzburg Fortress, Salzburg Cathedral, Mozart’s Birthplace, Mirabell Palace and Gardens, and St. Peter’s Abbey. These sights offer a perfect blend of history, culture, and ‘The Sound of Music’ filming locations in the heart of the romantic city of Salzburg.
How does the Salzburg Card benefit tourists, and which museums and sights in Salzburg are included with its purchase?
The Salzburg Card benefits tourists by providing free admission to most museums and attractions in Salzburg, free public transportation, and discounts on cultural events. It includes entry to popular sites like Hohensalzburg Fortress, Mozart’s Birthplace, and the Salzburg Museum, making it one of the best things to buy for a visit to Salzburg.
What are some romantic spots in Salzburg that were featured in ‘The Sound of Music’ film, and how can visitors experience them?
Romantic spots in Salzburg featured in ‘The Sound of Music’ include Mirabell Gardens (where “Do-Re-Mi” was filmed), Leopoldskron Palace (used for exterior shots of the von Trapp home), and the gazebo at Hellbrunn Palace (where “Sixteen Going on Seventeen” was filmed). Visitors can experience these locations through dedicated Sound of Music tours or by exploring the city independently with a Salzburg Card.
