travel salzburg

Salzburg’s beautiful baroque old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it’s easy to see why. Historic architecture, elegant gardens, and charming lanes hark back to the time when the city was a part of the Holy Roman Empire, ruled by archbishops and brought to life by the salt trade. As the city of Mozart, it’s only fitting that Salzburg has developed into a cultural capital defined by music, theater, and art. Beyond the city, a world of natural wonders awaits, with beautiful mountain scenery, crystal-clear lakes, outdoor sports, luxurious spas, and romantic retreats in the SalzburgerLand.

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Photo By Kirk Fisher/Shutterstock

Food and drink to try in Salzburg

Salzburg’s dining scene includes an array of traditional regional offerings, including various schnitzels, sausages, and dumplings, often served in historic surroundings. There are also more innovative restaurants, such as Esszimmer, which has a more modern European menu. Salzburg is also Austria’s unofficial beer capital, with several breweries, including Augustiner Bräu and Stiegl. Many visitors associate the city with chocolate, cakes, and pastries, thanks to the pistachio- and marzipan-filled Mozartkugel, the delicious Sachertorte, and the simple, fluffy Salzburger Nockerl pastry that is found in almost every good café.

Culture in Salzburg

Salzburg is synonymous with culture, from Mozart to modern art. Traditional costumes and folk dance are also important aspects of the local culture, as seen during the Rupertikirtag Festival, a folkloric celebration of Austrian culture that is held over several days each September. Locals proudly sport their dirndls and lederhosen while engaging in various folk dances, demonstrating and exhibiting handcrafts, and, of course, drinking beer. Each square in the city features stalls with local food specialties, candies, Austrian wines, and handicrafts, and also has carnival rides.

What would Salzburg be without music? Visitors to the city can be found exploring the world of Mozart, from his birthplace to places he performed, as well as enjoying modern performances of his works. People also enjoy searching out scenes from The Sound of Music at Mirabell Palace and Gardens, Hellbrunn Palace, Leopoldskron Palace, or Nonnberg Abbey. There is also The Sound of Music Tour of the city and its surroundings. Of course, Salzburg has more to offer than music. Magnificent cathedrals, great shopping, a flourishing food scene, and the incredible natural features of the Alps make it an exciting destination.

From Mozart Week in late January to the last days of the Christmas markets in December, there is no shortage of events to celebrate in the city. None, however, is as world–renowned as The Salzburg Festival, officially inaugurated in 1920 but based on an earlier festival that focused on Mozart. Each summer, the city fills with the sounds of orchestral and chamber music, opera, theater, and readings during the five-week festival, which runs from late July through late August. The highlight is the yearly performance of Hugo von Hofmannsthal’s Everyman morality play, staged at the Domplatz with the landmark baroque cathedral as a backdrop.

Practical Information

Salzburg lies on the Austria-Germany border and is most easily reached by air via Munich Airport and the highly efficient rail lines. While summers are warm and inviting, the city is also beautiful and easy to explore under a blanket of snow. The old town is compact and best seen by foot. Rooms are hard to come by during the Salzburg Festival, so booking well in advance of late-summer visits is advised. Power in continental Europe is 220 volts, so visitors from North America will need a plug adapter and possibly a power converter. (Most electronics will do just fine with only the former.) Visas are not required for stays of less than three months. The official language is German and the currency is the euro.

Guide Editor

How to See the Best of Salzburg in 2 Days (+ Itinerary, Map & Tips)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: September 4, 2023

Thinking of visiting Salzburg in Austria for a few days and wondering what to see and how to best plan your time? In this guide, we share a suggested 2-days Salzburg itinerary that covers all the main sights in the city, including tour recommendations, places to eat, and useful tips for your visit. Find out!

Salzburg is one of the most beautiful cities in Austria, world-known as the birthplace of Mozart and the backdrop of the iconic movie ‘The Sound of Music’. But there’s so much more to the city than that! It’s a lovely town with a great atmosphere, and there’s a lot to see and do in town and in the area.

Good to know: We start with the detailed recommendations of what to see in Salzburg in two days. At the bottom of this article, you can find a short overview of this itinerary and the approximate time indications you need for each attraction . We also include a map indicating all the places mentioned in our guide.

With so much to see and do in Salzburg , you can probably imagine that there are countless different ways to spend 2 days in Salzburg. Depending on your interests or the time of the year when you visit, you may want to plan a (half) day tour outside the city as well. Or you can stay in the city and spend two full days in Salzburg and still not see everything.

This itinerary is just one of the many possibilities for how you could plan your Salzburg 2-day itinerary. It’s based on our personal experience visiting Salzburg. We focus mostly on the top sights in the city , but we also include additional recommendations nearby (such as the Sound of Music tour , Hellbrunn Palace, or a half-day trip to Hallstatt ).

I hope that this guide will help you plan a fun and memorable city trip to Salzburg. Take a look!

READ ALSO: One Day in Salzburg

PRO TIP: Be sure to get the Salzburg Card for your visit. It includes public transport and so many attractions in and near the city. It offers excellent value that pays off even if you just visit 3-4 sights.

Depending on what you decide to see and if you plan any tours outside the city, for this itinerary, you could get either a 24-hour card or one for 48 hours. Its validity starts from the first use and is indeed counted per hour, not by calendar day.

Here’s what your Salzburg itinerary for 2 days could look like:

Old Town: Alter Markt, Residenzplatz, Mozartplatz

Start your visit with a short walk through the historic old town of Salzburg. You’ll pass many nice areas in the city center later on in this itinerary as well, but one of the best places to start is probably the area around Mozartplatz and Residenzplatz .

Alter Markt (the Old Market) is the most picturesque of them and is absolutely not to be missed. You could also stop for a cup of coffee or breakfast at the historic Café Tomaselli . Be sure to also check out Goldgasse , a pretty little street that gets its name from the goldsmiths who used to have shops here.

There are several big town squares in the old town and even though they all have different names, they are interconnected and you basically just walk from one to the other. If you come here early, it’s not too busy yet and you can admire the beautiful architecture without having to navigate the big crowds that flock to this area later in the morning.

Next, make a quick stop at the Tourism Information center on Mozartplatz where you can pick up your Salzburg Card . Normally, it’s open daily from 9 am and ideally, you get here as soon as it opens.

Check out the Mozart Statue on Mozartplatz and walk to the adjacent Residenzplatz . Here, you can see the Salzburger Glockenspiel (the Salzburg Carillon), an impressive bell tower with 35 bells that play different songs three times a day (normally at 7 am, 11 am, and 6 pm).

There are several museums on Residenzplatz including Salzburg Museum, Panorama Museum, Christmas Museum, and DomQuartier Salzburg. All of these are free with the city card, so – depending on your interests – you could quickly check them out. However, we found that one of them – DomQuartier Salzburg – is worth it so much more than all the others. So under the motto ‘less is more’ we recommend visiting here – see further below.

However, DomQuartier Salzburg only opens at 10 am. So in the morning, we recommend making a tiny detour and visiting one of Salzburg’s must-sees first.

Mozart’s Birthplace

If there’s one place that you really can’t miss when visiting Salzburg, it’s Mozart’s Birthplace . The bright yellow building at Getreidegasse 9 is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city.

It will come as no surprise that this place gets very busy, so it’s best to come here early in the morning before the tour groups arrive. It’s just 5 minutes walk from the Tourist Information Center and the places mentioned above, so you could easily beat the biggest crowds by arriving here early.

It is in this house that Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was born on 27 January 1756. Nowadays, the ground floor of the building houses a supermarket while the upper floors serve as a museum. Inside, you can see the room where Mozart was born and the apartments where he spent his childhood and youth.

Inside, you can see a kitchen and several rooms that feature some furniture from that period. There are also some paintings and other artifacts, including some hair that supposedly belonged to W.A. Mozart. You can also learn more about the Mozart family and the early life of the famous composer.

Good to know: The museum is quite small and the expositions are limited. So don’t expect much from it. But just being here and reading all the stories gave me goosebumps – it’s not every day you get to visit such a special place. We find that it’s an absolute must in Salzburg.

Practical information: Mozart’s Birthplace is open daily from 9 am, and the entrance is free with the Salzburg Card . Taking into account that a single ticket here costs almost half of the 24hr card price, you’ll quickly realize that the card is more than worth it! We spent about 30 minutes inside.

DomQuartier Salzburg

DomQuartier Salzburg presents itself under the slogan ‘more than a museum’, and it sure is. Set inside a former residence of the Prince – Archbishops that ruled over Salzburg, this is one of the most interesting museums in the city.

The impressive complex of baroque buildings constructed around three courtyards dates from the early 17th century and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It has 180 rooms and halls, decorated by the best Austrian baroque masters of the 17-18th centuries.

Today, there are three museums inside, included in one ticket. They are all interconnected, so you walk from one to the other in a circle. You see impressive staterooms and an art gallery with some masterpieces by painters such as Rembrandt or Rubens. In addition, you visit the Cathedral Museum and see the impressive Cathedral itself from the upper inside terrace, as well as the Museum of St. Peter’s Abbey.

Good to know: The museum is quite big and you could easily spend 2-3 hours here. But you can also just quickly walk through in about 1 hour. They have audio guides in different languages and you can learn a bit more about the rooms/ paintings that interest you the most.

Practical information: The museum is open daily, except Tuesdays from 10 am. A visit here is included with the Salzburg Card. You can find more practical information on their website .

St. Peter’s Abbey, Cemetery, and Catacombs

Just next door to DomQuartier is the Abbey of St. Peter with an old cemetery and a small gothic St. Mary’s Chapel in the center. You can’t visit the abbey itself here, but you can see the interior of the “Long Gallery” as part of your visit to the above-mentioned DomQuartier.

Just as you enter the abbey site, on the left side, you can see an old water wheel used to power the monastery mill . Salzburg’s oldest bakery – Stiftsbäckerei St Peter – is located here, and the smell of freshly baked bread is hard to resist…

But the main reason to come to the old site of St. Peter’s Abbey is the cemetery and St. Peter’s Catacombs . The cemetery is very tranquil and – as strange as it may sound – is a nice place to walk around. You can see lots of old burial vaults and graves, including those of famous citizens of Salzburg, artists, and scholars. Mozart’s sister Nannerl, and her husband Michael Haydn are buried here too.

Interesting to know: You may recognize the cemetery from the film ‘The Sound of Music’. One of the final scenes of the movie – the von Trapp family’s escape from the National Socialists – was filmed here.

Just behind the ‘modern’ cemetery, you can find the Early Christian catacombs, hewn out of the rock of the Mönchsberg mountain. This part requires a ticket (also free with Salzburg Card ) and you can visit the catacombs, a 12th-century ‘Gertrauden Chapel’, and an ancient ‘Maximus Chapel’.

It’s just a small site and you have to climb some stairs, but it’s really interesting to see. Also the views from a small viewing platform about halfway down the stairs are really nice.

Good to know: The Catacombs are open daily except for some public holidays. They usually close for half an hour between 12.30 and 1 pm, so – for this itinerary – it’s best to come here before noon.

Salzburg Cathedral

Next stop – Salzburg Cathedral . The baroque masterpiece is quite impressive from the outside already, with a big green dome and two towers, but it’s well worth taking a look inside as well.

If you visit the DomQuartier Salzburg mentioned earlier, you’ll already have seen the Cathedral from the inside from the upper floor, where you can also see its impressive organ from close by. So it’s not really a must to come back and visit the church unless you want to take a deeper look at the interior .

Good to know: To visit the Cathedral, you’ll have to get a separate ticket. This is one of the few places that is not included with the Salzburg Card, but you get a small discount.

TIP: You can also attend an organ concert at the Cathedral . This allows you to see the Cathedral at the same time too. Concerts run at noon daily except on Sundays and take just about half an hour. You can find more information and get the tickets here . If it’s not too busy, you should be able to get a ticket on the spot as well.

Kapitelplatz

As you exit the Cathedral and turn in the direction of the Hohensalzburg Fortress, you’ll walk past another big town square, Kapitelplatz .

Here you’ll see a giant golden sphere with a sculpture of a man on top of it, a popular photo spot in Salzburg. There’s also a big chessboard and a big fountain here as well.

As you walk through all these squares in the center of Salzburg, it feels like you are visiting some outdoor museum – there’s something to see around every corner…

Funicular & Lunch at Hohensalzburg Fortress

Next on this itinerary is a visit to Hohensalzburg Fortress. To get there, you can either walk up the hill, or – much easier and quicker – take a funicular.

The funicular is located just next to St. Peter’s Cemetery and is also free with the Salzburg Card. Also, with this card, you don’t have to stand in line in order to get a ticket and can just go straight to the funicular. Funiculars run constantly and the ride takes just a minute or so.

The Hohensalzburg Fortress is huge and there’s a lot to see and do inside. So before you start exploring, you may want to have a quick lunch . While there are lots of restaurants in the center, if the weather is nice, I highly recommend you have lunch at the top. The views from here are amazing!

We stopped at the first restaurant that you see when you exit the funicular in the direction of the viewing platform. I think it’s called Panorama Restaurant. It has a beautiful outdoor terrace overlooking the city center on one side and the mountains on the other. There’s also another restaurant with a big terrace at the back side of the fortress.

Of course, these restaurants are touristy, but they serve all kinds of traditional Austrian specialties and everything we tried was really good. The service was quick and friendly too – nothing to fault. And those views were so beautiful that we never wanted to leave…

Hohensalzburg Fortress

Sitting high on the hill, Hohensalzburg Fortress is one of Europe’s largest completely preserved fortresses. It dates from the 11th century!

One of the reasons to come here is, of course, the amazing views over Salzburg. But you can also visit several museums inside. As a minimum, do the ‘Panorama tour’ – that way you see a bit of the interior of the fort as well. But I also recommend the Fortress Museum where you also have separate access to the impressive staterooms that consist of the Princes’ Hall, the Golden Chamber, and the Golden Hall.

These  Princes’ Chambers are probably the most interesting part of the fortress. The furnishings inside are original from the early 1500s!

Our kids especially enjoyed the Arsenal building with several interactive games for the entire family. If you are visiting Salzburg with kids, check out that part as well.

Good to know: Almost everything you can visit here is included with the Salzburg Card, except for the staterooms, where there’s a small extra fee. This part is also included if you visit before 11 am, but I wouldn’t necessarily change the entire itinerary for that.

On the other hand, if you want to explore the fortress without the crowds, you could easily start here early morning and visit the other places afterward. Everything is so close by that it’s very simple to switch things around and adjust this itinerary to your liking.

Practical information: Hohensalzburg Fortress is open daily. In summer (May – September), it’s open from 9 am to 8 pm, and the rest of the year – from 9.30 am to 5 pm. You can spend 2-3 hours here, depending on what you visit inside. For a quick visit, count at least an hour.

City Center: Nonnberg Abbey, Franciscan Abbey, Pferdeschwemme, Getreidegasse…

After visiting the fortress, get back down to the city center. You can either take the funicular or walk.

If you walk, you could also stop at Nonnberg Abbey (located a bit uphill from the city center). The monastery is best known for its gate that was featured in ‘The Sound of Music’, so if you plan on taking a tour on the second day of this itinerary, you’ll likely come here at that time.

Once back in the city center, you could head straight to the main shopping street Getreidegasse . It’s a very picturesque street that is not to be missed in Salzburg. In fact, Mozart’s Birthplace that you visit first thing in the morning is located on this street. However, if you want to experience the real atmosphere (= crazy busy), you have to walk through this street during the day too.

Alternatively, turn left at the Domplatz (a big square in front of the cathedral), take the Franziskanergasse street, walk past the Franciscan Monastery . You could take a quick look at the church – its gothic interior is very impressive.

Next, walk to Marstallschwemme – Pferdeschwemme a bit further west following the same street. This is one of the two preserved ‘horse baths’ in the old town of Salzburg. The fountain with big murals depicting horses stands at the base of Mönchsberg, with the steep cliffs of the mountain right behind it. In the middle, you’ll see a large sculpture of a horse. This is one of those places that’s not a must-see, but it’s just a small detour, so I recommend checking it out.

From here, you can turn back towards the center and walk the entire length of the above-mentioned Getreidegasse . Be sure to check out at least a few of the side alleys of this main pedestrian street as well. You could also get a pretzel or some ice cream and enjoy it while walking around.

Rooftop Views

After all that walking and sightseeing, you definitely deserve another break by now. There are many places where you could get a drink all over the city, but for a special experience, why not head to a rooftop bar with the best views in Salzburg .

Cross the river via Staatsbrücke bridge and you’ll immediately see Hotel Stein on your right. This 4* hotel has a beautiful rooftop bar & restaurant and the views are unparalleled. In fact, if you are traveling without kids (the hotel is adults-only), this could be a really nice place to stay in the city. With kids, we stayed at the Imlauer Hotel Pitter which also has a very beautiful rooftop restaurant (the views aren’t comparable, but the hotel is amazing and the staff – much friendlier).

Anyway, back to the rooftop bar Steinterrasse . You don’t have to be a guest at the hotel to come here, and the views are definitely worth it. If you’d want to come here for dinner, it’s best to reserve in advance, but for a drink in the late afternoon, you should be able to find a table without a reservation (I’m not even sure they take reservations during the day).

The prices are a bit on the higher side and we found that some staff were a bit arrogant (some others were extremely friendly too). I was wondering if it had to do with the fact that we came here with our kids (teens), but some reviews on the internet seem to share this experience… Anyway, the drinks were good and our kids ordered some dessert which was delicious as well. And yes, the views make it all more than worth it!

Mozart Concert & Dinner

End your first day in Salzburg with a Mozart concert and dinner. You can do the two separately and just head to a concert while dining somewhere else, or you can also opt for an all-in experience that includes a concert and a nice dinner.

I cannot comment on any of these from personal experience. There was no way our kids would sit still through an experience like that, so we didn’t do it. But we researched all the different options and – frankly – some of them really looked amazing.

So if you are looking for a special experience in Salzburg, you may want to plan this for your first evening in the city.

Here are some of the best experiences based on the research I did for our trip:

• Mozart Concert with Dinner inside the Baroque Hall of St. Peter Abbey in the old town, close to the Cathedral. As far as food quality goes, this looks like the best option. Also, this is a more special experience with opera singers in costumes, etc.
• Mozart Fortress Concert with Dinner at the state rooms inside the Hohensalzburg Fortress. Going here would mean a bit of backtracking, but you could also adjust this itinerary a bit and time your visit to the fortress to fit this concert with your schedule. You can also opt for the concert-only option here (without dinner).
• Mozart Classical Concert at the Mirabell Palace. This is your chance to see the beautiful interior of the Mirabell Palace. This option doesn’t include dinner, but you will easily find plenty of restaurants for that. Just be sure you go for dinner early so that you can make the concert in time. Or try to find a restaurant that’s open later and reserve a table right after the concert.

On your second day in Salzburg, you could opt for a half-day tour outside the city and some more sightseeing in the center. Depending on your interests, some of the best tour options include The Sound of Music tour (4 hours, morning or afternoon), River Cruise + Hellbrunn Palace (2.5 hours, afternoon), or a half-day trip to Hallstatt (5.5 – 6 hours, afternoon).

For this itinerary, we recommend ‘The Sound of Music’ tour. But if you decide on one of the other two options, you can easily adjust the rest of the itinerary to suit your schedule as well. Hellbrunn Palace can also easily be visited by public transport – it’s just a 12-15 minutes drive from the center.

Here is what your second day in Salzburg could look like:

Sound of Music Tour

Start your day with the Sound of Music tour . Even if you are not a fan of the movie, it’s just a really nice experience since you get to see so many nice places just outside the city.

There are various tour options, by bus or by bike as well. However, bus tours will take you to more locations (and also further away), whereas the bike tours will be more focused on the places in the city (and you’ll see many of them on your own anyway).

This is one of the most popular (and highly rated) Sound of Music bus tours . It runs daily throughout the year and the morning tour usually starts at around 9 am and takes about 4 hours. This makes it easy to plan the rest of the day. But you can also opt for the afternoon tour if you prefer (in that case, switch the order in which you visit the other sights in this itinerary).

Mirabell Palace & Gardens

The tours usually start and end at Mirabell Palace (which is actually another Sound of Music filming location). So after you are back in the city, be sure to visit here.

The nicest place to see is undoubtedly Mirabell Gardens, and definitely, if you are visiting Salzburg in the warmest months when everything is blooming. The gardens are so beautiful, with fountains and sculptures, rose gardens, and other flowers all around you.

Our hotel was located nearby, so we passed here at least twice a day every day and I just couldn’t get enough of this place. So pretty!

Good to know: Normally, you can visit Mirabell Palace inside and the admission is free. Mirabell Palace and Angel Staircase are open daily from 8 am to 6 pm and the Marble Hall is open from 8 am to 4 pm on Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday, and from 1 pm to 4 pm on Tuesday and Friday.

However, it sometimes closes for special events and we had bad luck that it was closed for visits every time when we passed by. If you want to be sure to see the interior, the best way to do it is by coming here for a Mozart concert in the evening , as mentioned earlier.

Time for lunch ! In fact, if you are hungry, you can also have lunch first and then visit the Mirabell Gardens afterward.

There are quite a lot of restaurants in the area north of Mirabell Palace, or you can also walk in the direction of the city center, and you’ll find plenty of options there as well.

TIP: If you are looking for another special experience, you may want to check out the rooftop restaurant Imlauer Sky-Bar at Imlauer Hotel Pitter , just a few minutes walk from Mirabell Palace. We stayed at this hotel and had lunch here once and it was excellent. On the pricier side, but truly good food that comes with some nice views.

Alternatively, you can also simply get some pretzels (Brezen) at one of the many bakeries in town. Austrians seem to eat them at any time of the day – for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or anything in between…

Mozart Residence

In addition to Mozart’s Birthplace which we recommend visiting on the first day of this itinerary, there’s also another house where Mozart’s family lived, Mozart Residence .

It’s located just outside the southern end of the Mirabell Gardens, so it’s probably best to visit here on the second day (it’s nice to spread all the info too so that it doesn’t get too overwhelming).

Mozart Residence is a big house where Mozart’s family moved when he was 17 years old. He himself only lived here for a few years, before moving to Vienna. Currently a museum, a visit here gives you a deeper insight into the life of the family of the famous composer.

In the large ballroom, you can see a portrait of the Mozart family. It’s considered to be one of the best and most accurate images of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. In this same room, you can also see Mozart’s original piano. Each room inside the house tells a story of a different member of the family (be sure to pick up an audio guide) – it’s really interesting.

Good to know: Mozart Residence is normally 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 . Count 30-45 minutes for a visit.

View from Kapuzinerberg

After visiting Mozart Residence, you could make a short detour to the viewpoint at Kapuzinerberg . There’s a monastery on top of this hill and a small church that you can visit. But indeed, the main reason to come here is the view.

The views from Kapuzinerberg are nice, but you have very similar views from the rooftop bar that I recommended visiting on day 1 of this itinerary.

So I’ll let you decide if it’s worth it. The uphill climb is pretty steep but short. If you take the road with the Kapuzinerberg Stations of the Cross up and the stairs down, it’s really not that tiring. To help you orient, I indicated both – the recommended starting point of the climb and the stairs – on our map further below.

It took me less than 5 minutes to get to the top, a few minutes to visit the church and enjoy the views from the two terraces (the best view is from the terrace that’s a bit further away – more in the direction of the river), and then 5 minutes to get back down the stairs. All in all, maybe 15-20 minutes for a quick visit. I found that it was worth it, but my family decided to get some ice cream and wait for me at the bottom.

The Kapuzinerberg viewpoint is one of the best places to see the sunset in Salzburg, so you could also come here later.

River Cruise

Next, make your way to the city center on the other side of the river (5 minutes walk). It’s probably best to walk to the pedestrian bridge – Marko-Feingold-Steg – and cross the river here. You have really nice city views from this bridge too.

Just next to the bridge, on the right side, there’s a stop of the Salzach River cruises . A regular boat ride takes about 40-50 minutes and the standard ticket is free with Salzburg Card. The only issue is that – if it’s busy – you may not be able to find a spot for the next available cruise.

So if you absolutely want to do this cruise, you could stop at the ticket office on the first day of this itinerary and reserve a spot for 5 pm on day 2. Alternatively, you can also get timed tickets for the cruise in advance , but you’ll have to pay full price.

The cruise takes you on a slow ride on the Salzach River a bit outside the city. There’s a commentary in German and in English, so you learn a bit about the places you pass by. The boat then turns around and comes back the same way (much faster since it goes downstream this time), and the captain performs a little ‘dance’ with the boat at the end of the tour.

All in all, it’s a nice experience for the whole family and it’s also good to rest your legs a bit, but I wouldn’t consider it an absolute must.

Views from Mönchsberg

Just a few minutes walk from the river, you can find an elevator to Mönchsberg . This is one of the many hills in Salzburg center, offering amazing views of the city. The elevator is also included with the Salzburg Card and the ride takes just a few seconds – absolutely worth it.

There is a museum of modern art on top of Mönchsberg and a restaurant with a panoramic outdoor terrace, and you can also explore the area on many walking trails here as well. But the nicest viewpoint doesn’t require much walking at all – it’s right at the elevator.

We also walked to the nearby Humboldtterrasse and the views are also very nice here. However, this is a +-10 min walk on a dirt path. If you want to do it, you’ll find signs to this viewpoint behind the museum building or behind the tower next to the museum.

As mentioned, there is a restaurant here and it looks like a beautiful place for dinner. But the reviews aren’t great and so if you are looking for good food and a more traditional experience, head back to the city center for dinner. You could try and get a drink here, but – depending on the time and how busy it is – they may not be keen on just serving drinks.

TIP: Mönchsberg could also be a nice place to visit around sunset . But this will depend on the season when you visit and when the sun sets, of course. In summer, you could also come here after dinner – the elevator runs until late in the evening. On the other hand, the sun would be behind you and so if you want those amazing sunset views, you’re probably better off on the other side of the river or at the top of the fortress where you have views in that direction as well.

Dinner at a Traditional Beer Garden

We recommend visiting at least one traditional beer garden during your time in Salzburg. For the best beer garden experience in the center of Salzburg, head to Sternbräu .

This beer garden is located in a beautiful courtyard with chestnut trees, the ground is covered with small white pebbles, there are old wooden tables and benches, and it’s self-service too. So it has all the ‘ingredients’ of a traditional beer garden.

This place can get really busy on a nice sunny evening, especially on the summer weekends. So you may need some patience and luck to find a table. The best way to secure one is to arrive a bit earlier than the standard dinner time.

Alternatively (and if you don’t like an idea of a self-service dinner), you can also reserve a table at their indoor restaurant or try the Italian restaurant Trattoria La Stella which is located in the same courtyard.

Or you can have dinner somewhere else and just come here for some beer and pretzels some other time during your visit. As you’ll see on the map further below, this restaurant is very centrally located and so you can easily plan to visit here during the day as well.

Alternative restaurant suggestion for dinner: Restaurant Pitter Keller at Hotel Imlauer Pitter. This restaurant serves traditional Austrian food in a really nice setting (a traditional-style beer basement, very common in Austria and Germany).

Salzburg 2-day Itinerary – OVERVIEW & MAP

As promised, here is an overview of the suggested itinerary. Please note that the hours are just indicated for your reference, to give you a better idea of what can be done and how to plan your time.

2 days in Salzburg:

• 8.30 am: Breakfast/ coffee in the city center (Café Tomaselli?). Alter Markt, Residenzplatz.
• 9 am: Pick up the Salzburg Card at the Tourist Info on Mozartplatz (or one of the other locations in the city).
• 9.15 am: Mozart’s Birthplace.
• 10 am: DomQuartier Salzburg.
• 11.30 am: St. Peter’s Cemetery & Catacombs.
• Noon: (optional) Concert at the Cathedral ( tickets ).
• 12.45 pm: Funicular & lunch at Hohensalzburg Fortress.
• 2 pm: Hohensalzburg Fortress.
• 4 pm: City center.
• 4.45 pm: A drink with nice views (at a rooftop bar of Hotel Stein?).
• +-6-7 pm: Mozart concert with dinner or dinner and 8 pm concert (see all the options above ).
• 9 am: The Sound of Music tour (see availability here ).
• 1.30 pm: Lunch (Sky-Bar at Hotel Imlauer?).
• 2.45 pm: Mirabell Palace & Gardens.
• 3.15 pm: Mozart Residence.
• 4 pm: Views from Kapuzinerberg.
• 5 pm: River cruise.
• 6 pm: Mönchsberg.
• 7 pm: Dinner (at the traditional beer garden Sternbräu?)

To help you plan your visit, here’s a map indicating all the places mentioned in this 2-day Salzburg itinerary.

Please note that we are not affiliated with any of the restaurants, hotels, or activities mentioned here; these are all recommendations based on our personal experience. You’ll find plenty of other restaurants, bars, and cafes in the city, so choose the places that appeal to you the most. Just one tip – if you want to have dinner at a specific restaurant (and especially if visiting on a weekend), it’s best to reserve in advance.

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

Salzburg city center is really compact, so I recommend staying in the center. That way, you can just walk to all the main sights. If you are arriving by train, you may want to stay closer to the station. And if you are visiting by car, be sure that your hotel offers car parking.

One of the most convenient areas to stay in Salzburg for sightseeing is the area north of the river and south of the railway station (around the Mirabell Palace).

This is also where we stayed – at IMLAUER HOTEL PITTER . The location is excellent for everything – the hotel is close to the station and just a short walk from all the main sights. Furthermore, it has a private underground parking, a really nice traditional restaurant, and a fantastic rooftop terrace. Having breakfast at such an amazing terrace already makes your day perfect, before you even set off for the day… I can’t recommend this hotel highly enough – we loved it.

Here are some of the best-rated hotels in Salzburg city center for various budgets (but this is really just a tiny selection – be sure to check here for the best options for your travel dates ):

• €€€€€ Hotel Sacher Salzburg – a traditional 5* luxury hotel (+ amazing river views).
• €€€€ Radisson Blu Hotel Altstadt – great price/quality in the heart of the old town.
• €€€+ Hotel Stein (adults only) – a nice 4* luxury hotel by the river.
• €€€ Star Inn Gablerbräu – a very nice and simple 3* hotel (great mid-budget option).

The following hotels are close to the station, about 20 minutes walk from the old town, and offer an excellent price-quality ratio on a lower budget. Just be sure to note if breakfast is included when comparing the prices.

• €€ H+ Hotel Salzburg – a modern 4* hotel with great customer reviews.
• € a&o Salzburg Hauptbahnhof – one of the nicest budget options.

So, these are our recommendations for 2 days in Salzburg. I hope that this guide and itinerary help you plan an amazing visit to this beautiful city.

Have a great trip!

READ ALSO: Best Things to Do in Salzburg & 1-day Salzburg Itinerary

More travel inspiration for Austria:

• Salzburg Day Trip
• 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
• Best Things to Do in Tirol with Kids

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!

European cities – itineraries:

• 1 day in Amsterdam
• 1 day in Barcelona
• 1 day in Venice
• 1 day in Rome
• 1 day in Florence
• 1 day in Milan
• 1 day in Naples
• 1 day in Madrid
• 1 day in Lisbon
• 1 day in Edinburgh
• 1 day in Glasgow
• 1 day in Manchester
• 2 days in London
• 2 days in Rome
• 2 days in Amsterdam
• 2 days in Barcelona
• 2-3 days in Krakow
• 4 days in Rome
• 4 days in Paris
• … for more places, please see our destinations guide .

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Thursday 11th of July 2024

Thank you so much for your well laid out itinerary! I love that you even included a "things to know" section at the end of each activity description. Super helpful to know hours of operation, etc. It was just very manageable...not overwhelming and seeing a time table for each activity made it easy to move activities around. From someone who relies on and only uses travel blogs to plan our trips, I have to say yours is one of the best I've visited! Kudos to you!

Thank you for your kind feedback, Robyn. Have a great time in Salzburg!

Tuesday 26th of March 2024

Thank you for another outstanding itinerary. I will be using it in two weeks!

Wednesday 27th of March 2024

Glad to help, Claire. Have a great trip!

Friday 23rd of February 2024

I am so glad that I stumbled upon your blog on Salzburg! I copied the link and this will be our itinerary in Salzburg. Thank you for sharing your trips! Also, your photos are absolutely beautiful!

Glad to help, May. Have a great time in Salzburg. It's such a beautiful area!

Michael Cicchi

Monday 6th of June 2022

👏👏👏👏 You really do make gorgeous articles. I am saving all of your articles for ant trips I make to those places.👍

Wednesday 8th of June 2022

Thank you, Michael. You're a very loyal reader!

I love Salzburg! It looks like you had a wonderful trip. My husband was born and raised in Salzburg and we met there in 1979. It’s my favorite city in Europe for good reason!

Salzburg is really charming, indeed, Patti. I have to admit that we didn't really know what to expect and the city surprised us in a very positive way. The atmosphere is amazing too. Definitely, a place to return to for a longer visit. Happy travels!

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.

The 24 Best Things to do in Vienna, Austria

• Best Day Trips from Munich
• Best Places to Celebrate Christmas Around the World

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:

• Safety Wing - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Book Your Activities: Looking for walking tours, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more? Then we recommend Get Your Guide.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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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.!!

Best Of Salzburg Itinerary: 3 Days In Salzburg With Map & Tips [2024]

• Post author: Nicoletta
• Reading time: 52 mins read
• Post last modified: February 6, 2024
• Post comments: 12 Comments

If you are visiting Europe and are close to Austria, Salzburg is the city you should visit. It was ranked the world’s top city to visit in 2020 by   Lonely Planet , which already says a lot about it.

I lived in Salzburg for 3 years while studying at the University. So, I got the chance to explore pretty much every corner of the city. I’ve designed this 3-day Salzburg itinerary from my experience and through my eyes as a local , so you won’t miss any highlights during your visit.

Finally, I’ll share some ideas for  day trips from Salzburg.  I highly recommend you choose at least one of these day trips because the region is spectacular.

So take this itinerary and enjoy Salzburg fully !

Interesting Facts About Salzburg

🔅 The famous  Christmas carol ‘Silent Night’  text was created near Salzburg – by Joseph Mohr in 1816 – in a small village called  Oberndorf bei Salzburg .

🔅 Salzburg is the  birthplace of Amadeus Mozart , the famous classical music composer.

🔅 Salzburg has  one of the largest fortresses in Europe  that foreign troops have never captured.

🔅 The  River Salzach  was used for trading and transporting salt, thanks to which Salzburg also became wealthy – The German word ‘ Salz’  – means  ‘salt’  in English.

🔅 Salzburg is the place of the famous  Sound of Music  movie. However, Austrians find the film very kitschy and say it doesn’t reflect the environment and history, so they don’t like it and are not proud of it.

🔅 The  Red Bull  drink was first produced in Salzburg, and the company’s headquarters is in Salzburg.

✈ Travel Resources For Your Trip ✈

Here are some of my favorite travel resources I use for my travel adventures.

Overview Of The Salzburg Itinerary 3 Days

To help you navigate through the article, here is a short overview of the sights I recommend visiting in Salzburg each day.

On the third day , I recommend spending some time in the Salzburg region and making a day trip from the city.

DAY 1. Salzburg In A Nutshell

📍 Fortress Hohensalzburg 📍 Mönchsberg Hill & Medieval Walls 📍 Sky Space & Mönchsberg Lift 📍 Afro Cafe 📍 Getreidegasse (Salzburg old town) 📍 Grünmarkt at University Square 📍 Salzburger Festspielhaus

📍 Salzburg Cathedral 📍 Kapitelplatz 📍 Residenz Platz 📍 Goldgasse 📍 Fürst Confectionery – Mozart Pralines 📍 Tomasseli Cafe 📍 Augustiner Bräu

DAY 2. Salzburg In A Nutshell

📍 Hellbrunn Palace 📍 Mozart’s Birthplace 📍 Makartsteg Bridge 📍 L’Osteria Pizzeria 📍 Mirabell Garden

📍 Sacher Hotel for a traditional Austrian cake 📍 Amadeus Cruise on the River Salzach 📍 Capuchin Monastery Hill 📍 Classical Concert In The Fortress

DAY 3. Salzburg In A Nutshell

On the third day in Salzburg, I highly recommend going out of the city and exploring the Salzburg region. Make one of the best day trips and enjoy a visit to salt mines, Hallstatt, Giant Ice Caves, a Sound of Music tour, and more.

Here is a list of the best day trip s you can make from Salzburg. If you have more time, you can stay in Salzburg even for 4 to 5 days and make various day trips.

📍 Werfen & Giant Ice Caves 📍 Hallstatt & Skywalk & Salt Mines 📍 St. Wolfgang Lake & Schafberg Mountain 📍 Berchtesgaden & Eagle’s Nest & Salt Mines 📍 King’s Lake 📍 Hallein Salt Mines & Celtic Village 📍 Mondsee – Sound Of Music Tour 📍 Oberndorf Bei Salzburg

Map Of Salzburg & Best Things To Do

Here is a map of this itinerary , places I recommend visiting in the city and outside of the city:

1. DAY IN SALZBURG

Our Salzburg sightseeing starts at the top of the Mönchsberg hill, visiting the highlight of all Salzburg attractions – Fortress Hohensalzburg .

📍 Fortress Hohensalzburg

It’s  one of the largest fortresses in Europe , built to protect Salzburg’s principality and Archbishop. What is interesting is the fact that  foreign troops have never captured the Salzburg Fortress .

It was built in 1077 for the local Archbishop and gained its importance in 1500 under Archbishop Leonhard von Kreutschach’s reign.

Sights At The Fortress Hohensalzburg

• Fortress museum – weapons and history of the Fortress
• Torture chamber
• Tower at the top of Fortress with amazing views of the Austrian Alps
• Salzburg Bull – the wheel-driven barrel organ, plays daily at 7 am, 11 am, and 6 pm, and you can hear it playing even from the old town (from Kapitelplatz ).
• Marionette Museum
• Golden Hall – learn about Salzburg’s history and the life of Archbishop Leonhard von Kreutschach in the magical theatre in Golden Hall, see the chambers of the archbishop.

First, go to the terrace for  stunning views of Salzburg  and the River Salzach. After, you’ll receive an  audio guide  at the entrance, guiding you through all the Fortress’s highlights and history.

Visiting the  Golden Hall  with the magical theatre comes with an extra cost. If you skip it, you’ll have a fantastic experience even if you only make the  regular audio guide tour .

Location: Mönchsberg 34, 5020 Salzburg

➡ Get a skip-the-line ticket to visit Salzburg Fortress here.

📍 Mönchsberg Mountain

After you experience the Fortress Hohensalzburg, I suggest you stay on this hill before you explore the  old town of Salzburg .

The mountain on which the Fortress is built (and you are standing right now) is called  ‘Mönchsberg.’  It translates to  ‘monks’ hill.’

Once you leave the Fortress, there will be a left curve (the regular Fortress road has a right turn towards the city center).

Take the road on your left-hand side towards the gate. You can walk on the Mönchsberg hill until you reach the  Bürgerwehr (the medieval fortress walls) .

Location: Mönchsberg 19, 5020 Salzburg

📍 Sky Space & Mönchsberg Lift

Continue on the same road towards the  Sky Space . The Sky Space is a terrace where you’ll get amazing views of the Fortress and the entire old town of Salzburg. This terrace is part of the  Museum of Modern Salzburg .

There is a lift when you go inside the museum, which will take you down to the old town of Salzburg (the lift is called  Mönchsberg Aufzug ).

There is no way to get lost on this hill; just follow the Fortress road until the terrace, Sky Space, and enjoy the stunning views.

After, take the lift down to the city center . Once you take the lift down, you’ll be in front of the Museum of Modern Salzburg.

Location: Gstättengasse 13, 5020 Salzburg

📍 Coffee Break In Afro Café

Suggested stop:  Afro café  – after the walk, get some nice coffee or tea with a snack at the   Afro Café ,  which is on your way.

Then, continue to the  Getreidegasse .

Location: Bürgerspitalpl. 5, 5020 Salzburg

📍 Salzburg Old Town – Getreidegasse

Getreidegasse  is the main shopping street in  Salzburg’s old town . In the past, it was the most crucial street, a  place of trade and wealth , where locals built their taverns, breweries, and craft shops.

Nowadays, it’s a  famous shopping street  in Salzburg with some luxury outlets and delicacies.

On your right-hand side, you’ll see the house where Mozart was born ( Mozartgeburtshaus in German ). We’ll go there tomorrow, so just notice it from the outside for now.

After you spot the Mozart birth house and walk slightly further, take any tiny street on your right-hand side . Any street is fine, because they all take you to our next sightseeing spot.

📍 University Square & Grünmarkt

You’ll get to the  University Square   with the Market Fountain and Grünmarkt. The  Grünmarkt  is a  red stall selling local products  such as cheese, meat, sweets, and pretzels (with various flavors).

In the past, University Square was a place for  farm markets . This tradition has been kept until now. 

Every Saturday morning , people build their stalls on this square, offering various fresh products such as vegetables, fruits, bread, meat, and cheese.

Location: Universitätsplatz, 5020 Salzburg (University Square)

📍 Salzburger Festspielhaus (Salzburg Festival Hall)

We’ll see the famous  Salzburger Festspielhaus,  the place of Salzburg music. Since 1925, they have organized the  Salzburg festival  in this building every year, performing the best European drama and music.

The first play showcased at this festival is called  ‘Jedermann’  (‘Everyman’),  for which the festival became famous.

Location: Hofstallgasse 1, 5020 Salzburg

📍 Salzburger Dom (Salzburg Cathedral)

The  Salzburg Cathedral  is a Baroque-style Roman Catholic Cathedral founded in 774. You already know that Salzburg is famous for the classical music composer Amadeus Mozart.

What is interesting is that Mozart was  baptized in this cathedral . Also, he  had his first concert  playing piano only at 6. This concert was held right in one of the rooms of the  Dom Quarter , where you are standing.

You can enter the Salzburger Dom  free of charge . After, continue to the nearby  Kapitelplatz .

Location: Domplatz 1a, 5020 Salzburg

If you are interested in seeing the entire Dom Quartier and the place where Mozart played his first concert at the age of 6, you can book this  skip-the-line ticket  with an audio guide below. It also includes  Salzburg Residence  and its staterooms and St. Peter’s Museum. 

📍 Kapitelplatz (Chapter Square)

What might draw your attention to this square is the modern statue of the golden ball with a  ‘man without emotions’  standing at the top.

However, besides being  contemporary art , this sculpture has no other purpose or explanation. It only represents a man without emotions.

Location: Kapitelplatz, 5020 Salzburg

📍 St. Peter’s Cemetery & Old Bakery

At the corner of the Kapitel square is an entrance to  St. Peter’s cemetery . This is a little secret spot for all my clients and readers, as few people know about it. You can see a  little bakery  (Stiftsbäkerei St. Peter in German) with an old watermill  at this entrance. Go inside and see how locals used to make bread in the past, it’s so cool.

Salzburg is home to  the oldest water pipe tunnel in Central Europe . This pipe has been artificially created to supply water from the nearby Lake Könnigsee to Salzburg city.

The watermill next to the little bakery is where you can see the  water from Könnigsee Lake .

📍 Residenz Platz (Residence Square)

Residenz Platz  hosts the  largest Baroque fountain  in Central Europe. In summer, you’ll spot horse carriages.

In Austria’s Advent period before  Christmas time , Residenz Platz hosts one of  Europe’s most beautiful Christmas markets . You shouldn’t miss them, they are amazing.

Location: Residenzplatz, 5020 Salzburg (Residence Square)

📍 Fürst Confectionery – Traditional Mozartkügel

Once you come out, you’ll see a small square on your left-hand side with a fountain in the middle.

Go towards the fountain; on the left, you’ll see the   Fürst Confectionery .  The next essential stop is where we have a little rest from our walking tour.

The  traditional Mozartkügel is blue , not that red or green one you can see everywhere. Mozartkügel was created here at the  Fürst Confectionery .

It’s one of the few places where they still make it by hand traditionally. So, if you want a proper and  authentic Mozartkügel , this is the place to get it.

Location: Brodgasse 13, 5020 Salzburg

📍 Tomasseli Café

Opposite the confectionery, you’ll spot the historical  Tomasseli Café.  You might have another cup of coffee with a cake.

This is where our self-guided tour through Salzburg ends today . If you want, you can get ready for dinner and chill a bit at your hotel.

I recommend visiting a traditional brewery in the evening to see how locals enjoy their lives.

Location: Alter Markt 9, 5020 Salzburg

Evening At Traditional Austrian Beer Hall

End the day at the  Augustiner Bräu  and experience Salzburg’s beer culture and traditional atmosphere. This is one of the best places to visit in Salzburg.

You’ll take your  giant beer mug , and they’ll draught it directly from  wooden barrels  for you. There are many stalls where you can  get various food . Take what you like and enjoy the evening in the beer garden or one of the  Braustübl (taverna room) .

💡 NOTE: Even if you don’t drink beer , it’s still worth going inside and experiencing it (you can order something else).

How To Get To Augustiner Bräu

Take bus number 7, 9, or 21 from the stop called Ferdinand-Hanusch-Platz (in the old town). Get off at the stop named Landeskrankenhaus , and walk just 1 minute from there towards the beer hall. The bus drive takes 10 minutes.

Check out the Salzburg bus timetables if you need.

Location: Lindhofstraße 7, 5020 Salzburg

👉 READ ALSO: Epic Austria Road Trip: 7, 10, 14 Days In Austria

2. DAY IN SALZBURG

Today, we’ll continue sightseeing in Salzburg, starting with a slightly remote place pictured in the  Sound of Music movie . This place is located 4,5 kilometers from the center of Salzburg.

You’ll take the  bus n. 25  from the center will drive you directly to  Hellbrunn Palace  within only 20 minutes. The  bus stop  from where the bus departs is called  Rudolfskai/Mozartsteg .

Or take a taxi to have a more comfortable ride.

📍 Hellbrunn Palace

This Renaissance-style palace is located  40 minutes from Salzburg . It was also a residence of the archbishop Markus Sittikus, but only on special occasions in summer. This guy had a  great sense of humor  and installed some exciting things around the palace.

The highlights are  trick fountains  and their  water games  that you shouldn’t miss and the spectacular park with lakes next to the palace. Enjoy the atmosphere of this palace as you can.

Check out  Hellbrunn Palace’s  website  for more information, opening hours, and prices.

Location: Fürstenweg 37, 5020 Salzburg

After you have enough, let’s return to the old town of Salzburg and continue our walking tour. Take the same bus n. 25 back to the Salzburg old town .

Once you are back in the town, we’ll start the sightseeing at the Getreidegasse , visiting Mozart’s birthplace.

📍 Mozart Geburtshaus (Mozart Birthplace)

Mozart, born in 1756 , lived in the house with his family for  26 years . After, they moved to the so-called Mozart Residence house, located on the other side of the River Salzach, on the Makartplatz square.

You can also visit the Residence house if you want, but I think one of them is just enough.

Location: Getreidegasse 9, 5020 Salzburg

Lunch Break At L’OSTERIA PIZZERIA

If you want to get lunch, I suggest the Italian restaurant L’osteria Pizzeria . From the Mozart Birthplace house, you can walk through the pedestrian Makartsteg bridge to the Linzergasse (Linzer Street) .

The Pizzeria is just 2 minutes away from this street. They have great pizza, pasta, and other dishes.

Location: Dreifaltigkeitsgasse 10, 5020 Salzburg

📍 Mirabellgarden

Enjoy the unique atmosphere of the  Mirabell Garden.  This picturesque Baroque park was created in the 18th century. It was also one of the places where Sound of Music movies were shot – the scene where Maria and the children sang ‘ Do-Re-Mi’  while dancing around the fountain.

You’ll also get stunning views of the Salzburg Fortress. It’s one my favorite places in Salzburg.

Location: Mirabellplatz, 5020 Salzburg

HOTEL SACHER – SACHER TORTE

Afterward, you can return to the River Salzach (a few minute’s walk) to the Hotel Sacher. They make the traditional Austrian Sacher cake in their   Café Sacher,  which you must taste.

Get this nice dessert on the terrace next to the river and enjoy the stunning city views.

Location: Schwarzstraße 5-7, 5020 Salzburg

📍 Amadeus Cruise On The River Salzach

Optional:  If you want, hop on the Amadeus cruise on the River Salzach. It’s quite touristy but still an interesting thing to do. You’ll see the city from another perspective and learn more about its history and highlights.

💡 NOTE: In the past, the River Salzach was used to transport salt from the nearby Salt Mines in the Dürnberg hill, where they had a large-scale salt production. The salt was traded on the River Salzach to Salzburg, which significantly contributed to the wealth of the city.

Location: Ferdinand-Hanusch-Platz, 5020 Salzburg

👉 PRO TIP: Get the skip-the-line tickets for Amadeus Cruise , because there is always a huge line.

📍 Capuchin Hill

If you are not fed up with walking yet, you can walk up to the  Capuchin hill  with the monastery.

Cross the river again and go back to  Linzergasse . Then, turn right to the street called  Kapuzinenberg . Follow the road, and you’ll get up next to the monastery.

The road is steeper, but the views of Salzburg from the hill are spectacular. It’s a nice, quiet place, and I recommend seeing it. Afterward, you can walk the opposite way, down the stairs back to  Linzergasse Street .

Location: Kapuzinerberg, 5020 Salzburg

This is the end of our Salzburg self-guided walking tour. I hope you guys enjoyed it. You can get some dinner now and enjoy a drink or a cocktail at the Café am Kai (next to the river).

Tomorrow, you can enjoy some of the best excursions around Salzburg and its stunning region.

Evening Classical Concert At The Fortress

In the evening, you can enjoy a Classical concert . What better place to listen to Classical music than in the birthplace of the famous Classical Musician Amadeus Mozart?

And what better spot to enjoy such a concert than the spectacular fortress in Salzburg? You’ll be in a majestic concert hall with stunning city views. I highly recommend this experience.

➡ You can book tickets for the Classical Concert At The Fortress here.

Salzburg Guided Walking Tour

If you want to learn more about each sight and history of Salzburg, join this guided walking tour and visit all the highlights from my itinerary with a local guide.

More Experiences In Salzburg

If you have spare time and want to experience Salzburg’s traditions and exciting activities, I recommend joining one.

You can join this cooking class and learn how to prepare traditional Apple Strudel and Salzburger Nockerl.

If you’re a fan of Sound of Music, book a tour , visit all the locations where the movie was shot, and hear interesting stories from a local.

3. DAY IN SALZBURG

Not only is Salzburg city an attractive destination, but also the entire region. There are plenty of places to visit near Salzburg.

Below, I’m giving you some suggestions for  day trips from Salzburg . They include Salzburg Salt mines, ice caves, beautiful lakes and cruises, and viewing platforms with hiking options.

Consider doing at least one of them. The region is spectacular .

✅ Salt Mines Hallein – Dürnberg Mountain ✅ Werfen Castle & Giant Ice Caves (the largest ice caves in the world) ✅ Berchtesgaden Salt Mines, The Eagle’s Nest (Hitler’s summer residence) & Könnigsee Lake ✅ St. Wolfgang in Salzkammergut ✅ Hallstatt & Sky Walk ✅ Obertraun – 5 Fingers (hiking trail) ✅ Oberndorf bei Salzburg

Do You Have 4 – 5 Days In Salzburg?

If you have more than 3 days in Salzburg , make multiple-day trip excursions. Stay in the city for 4 or 5 nights, and visit the city on the first 2 days. On the next 2 to 3 days, make the incredible excursions to the salt mines, giant ice caves, cute towns, and lakes. You’ll love it.

👉 READ ALSO: Switzerland Vs. Austria: Which Is Better To Visit?

Travel Itinerary Planning Services

Practical tips for visiting salzburg.

To help you plan your visit to Salzburg even further, here are a couple of tips for when to visit, where to stay, the best restaurants in the city, and how to get around.

How Many Days Do You Need In Salzburg?

3 to 4 days is the perfect time to explore Salzburg and its surroundings. When you visit Salzburg, don’t make time to only explore the city. I highly recommend also visiting the region and excursing to the nearby salt mines, lakes, towns, and ice caves.

So spend 1 or 2 days exploring Salzburg city , and then an extra 2 days making some day trips from Salzburg. This way, you’ll have a full experience.

Best Time To Visit Salzburg

The best time to visit Salzburg is May, June, September, October, and December .

May, June, September, and October are generally the best months as they’re less crowded than the peak summer months, and the weather is mild . May and October particularly also have lower prices , especially for hotels.

December is an amazing time to visit Salzburg, as you can experience its Christmas markets . They’re truly the most beautiful in Austria, and the entire atmosphere in Salzburg is so magical.

💡 PRO TIP: Don’t forget to bring an umbrella – Salzburg is known to have over 300 rainy days per year . It rains a lot, so get prepared.

👉 READ ALSO: Magical European Christmas Markets By Train: Full Itinerary

How To Get Around Salzburg

The best way to get around Salzburg city is on foot . Salzburg is a small town, and it’s walkable . Most sights are within pedestrian areas, so you can reach everything on foot.

You can use local buses if you want to get to places outside the city center , such as Red Bull Hangar 7 or Augustiner Beer Hall.

To make the day trips from Salzburg , you can either take local S-Bahn trains and buses , or the best is to rent a car to be more flexible.

Where To Stay In Salzburg: Best Areas & Hotels In Salzburg

To have a great stay in Salzburg, choosing a good area and hotel is important. First, consider the area you’d like to stay in Salzburg, and then choose the hotel you like.

Check out my article about where to stay in Salzburg with the best hotels I recommend for your stay.

Or choose from one of my top 3 hotel recommendations below:

✅ JUFA Hotel Salzburg – budget-friendly accommodation ✅ Boutique Hotel Am Dom – mid-range hotel in the Old Town ✅ Hotel Sacher – luxury hotel at the River Salzach overlooking Salzburg

Where To Eat In Salzburg: Best Restaurants

Here are my favorite restaurants I recommend visiting when you’re in Salzburg. They’re all amazing and have delicious food:

✅ Sternbräu – traditional Austrian restaurant ✅ Lemonchilli Urban Restaurant & Bar – Mexican restaurant ✅ My Indigo – best salads, vegetarian/vegan dishes – I always come here for the salad bowl ✅ Pommes Boutique – snacks (to go) ✅ Burgerista – great burgers ✅ L’Osteria – Italian restaurant ✅ Mozart Cafe – great Austrian sweets (try traditional Salzburg Nockerl)

I’ve also answered some of the most frequently asked questions about Salzburg. Check my answers below:

Could You Do Salzburg In 2 Days?

Yes, you can do Salzburg in 2 days. It’s a lot of time to explore all the city’s highlights. In fact, you can see everything even in a day, since it’s a small town.

Is Salzburg More Beautiful Than Vienna?

Yes , Salzburg is more beautiful than Vienna. It’s because Salzburg also has a more magical atmosphere than Vienna . It might be because Vienna is bigger. But overall, if I chose between these two cities, I would always visit Salzburg over Vienna.

Which Is Better Salzburg Or Innsbruck?

Salzburg, as a city with all the attractions, is better than Innsbruck. It’s more exciting and beautiful. However, if you want to be even closer to the Alps and have more accessible hiking trails or skiing slopes, then Innsbruck is better to visit .

WRAP-UP: Salzburg Itinerary 3 Days

This is Salzburg and the beauty it offers. I’m sure you’ll love the city when you visit it. I come every year with my travel groups , and even though we only spend a couple of hours in the city, everyone always loves it. Salzburg has that incredible charm that other Austrian cities lack. So don’t think more and book your stay.

If you have more questions or need a customized travel itinerary for Austria, surroundings, or Salzburg, contact me at info(at)voicesoftravel.com . I’ll gladly help you.

Happy Travels!

More Tips For Austria Travel

Looking to visit more places in Austria? Check out my related articles:

Epic Austria Road Trip: 7, 10, 14 Days In Austria

11 Amazing Day Trips From Salzburg

Where To Stay In Salzburg: Best Areas & Hotels

Switzerland Vs. Austria: Which Is Better To Visit?

Christmas In Austria: Full Guide With Traditions & Best Places

Magical European Christmas Markets In Europe By Train: Full Itinerary

About the author: Nicoletta  is a travel enthusiast and passionate language learner. While traveling, she loves to connect with locals using her language skills to learn about new cultures. Look for her skiing, hiking in the mountains, or exploring new destinations as she designs travel itineraries for her clients.

AUSTRIA : Interested in more articles for Austria? Check out my Austria Travel Page :

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You brought back some great memories of our visit to Salzburg. We were busy on our visit but your sure packed in a lot! I would have loved to do the Amadeus Cruise and see the city from a different perspective. But we sure did not miss a chance for a tasty Sacher Torte!

Hi Linda, I am glad the article refreshed your memories from Salzburg. Hope you can come back soon one day and do the Amadeus Cruise. 🙂

You made me want to visit so beautiful photos!! Great tour, you told a very good info. Thanks for sharing!!

You’re very welcome, Petra. I am glad it’s been helpful for you. Let me know once you visit Salzburg.

I love this! While staying in Munich I did a day trip to Salzburg and naturally, as the American I am, did the Sound of Music tour lol. I absolutely loved it and enjoyed walking around the city as well!

Ooh, cool that you did the Sound of Music Tour, Sarah. It’s very popular in Salzburg, good choice ;).

Great guide on what to do when visiting Salzburg, there is definitely plenty to keep you busy for 48 hours. I wouldn’t want to miss visiting Fortress Hohensalzburg and the birthplace of Mozart. I didn’t know Silent Night was written there or that Red Bull originated there, very interesting!

Happy to read that you learned something new about Salzburg, Melissa :). Let me know once you are there. Hope this self-guided walking tour will be helpful for you.

Great post, I just love Salzburg. I went here when I was a 14 with some school friends before heading to ski and I just remember the gorgeous food, the palace which was covered in snow and wine (which they seemed awfully relaxed about haha)

I am glad you like it, Nicole. Hope you can come back to Salzburg one day and explore more :).

I’ve been to Salzburg on a short day trip which, of course, was by far not enough for a city that has so much glory to offer. Even next to Vienna, Salzburg is far more fairytale-like – therefore I find it quite funny that a highly contemporary product like Redbull is from there 😀

You’re absolutely right, Renata, that Salzburg is even more fairytale-like than Vienna :). Right: It is a strange fun fact about the Red Bull :D.

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Salzburg   Travel Guide

Why Go To Salzburg

The city that inspired Mozart, Haydn and Julie Andrews continues to enchant. And you too could be susceptible to its spell as you weave through its Baroque buildings and Romanesque archways, hoping to hear the lingering echoes of Mozart's fortepiano or a "Do-Re-Mi" from the Trapp Family Singers. Since there's little chance of that, try visiting during one of the city's many festivals or concerts instead, such as the summertime Salzburg Festival. While you're here, take a stroll through the Gothic Festung Hohensalzburg , say a prayer at Dom zu Salzburg  or dine on schnitzel and dumplings in the Altstadt (Old Town) district. You'll soon learn that this city is steeped in more than just musical history; it also boasts a majestic arrangement of medieval strongholds and magical palaces and gardens.

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• # 6 in Best Christmas Vacations
• # 7 in Best Winter Vacations in Europe

Best of Salzburg

Best hotels in salzburg.

• # 1 in Hotel Sacher Salzburg
• # 2 in Hotel Goldener Hirsch, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Salzburg
• # 3 in Hotel Salzburgerhof

Best Things to Do in Salzburg

• # 1 in Altstadt (Old Town)
• # 2 in Dom zu Salzburg (Salzburg Cathedral)
• # 3 in Mirabellgarten (Mirabell Gardens)

Popular Tours

The Original Sound of Music Tour in Salzburg

(4643 reviews)

from $ 73.96

Skip-the-Line: Eagle's Nest in Berchtesgaden Tour from Salzburg

(958 reviews)

from $ 108.10

Best of Mozart Concert and Dinner or VIP Dinner at Fortress Hohensalzburg

(364 reviews)

from $ 86.48

Salzburg Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

The best time to visit Salzburg is from September to October when summer crowds have tapered off and you can enjoy the beautifully pruned gardens in comfortable temperatures. Although the hills begin to sing and bloom in spring, March and April are still a bit chilly. And summer's gorgeous weather brings increased traffic, temperatures and prices. Winter, though not unbearably cold, will encourage brisk walks through the few gardens that are open. And you'll be right at home if you're a skier, as the surrounding mountains welcome lots of snow. Whenever you go, bring an umbrella as precipitation is common throughout the year.

What You Need to Know

It's great for music-loving tourists If you've come to pay tribute to a musical legend, it's best to join the flock of followers on any of "The Sound of Music" or Mozart tours that are led by knowledgeable, cheery guides. Panorama Tours is one traveler-approved operator.

It has Bavarian neighbors If you thought you had great neighbors, think again. With Bavaria (southern Germany) next door, Salzburg gets delicious brews and hearty Germanic food on the cheap.

The hills are alive  Ms. Andrews is right! The surrounding mountains are chock-full of picturesque villages and great hiking trails that make perfect daytrips.

How to Save Money in Salzburg

Use the card The Salzburg Card , that is. Purchase this handy rectangular discount pass from hotel reception desks or tourism offices across the city for free admission to almost every attraction, cheaper rates on excursions and rentals and waived public transportation fees for the duration of your card. You can buy cards valid for 24, 48 and 72 hours.

Opt for a tour If you elect to not get the Salzburg Card in favor of seeing the sights on your own, choose a tour that will bus you around town and include admission to the local attractions.

Paying for proximity Salzburg lives off tourism. Therefore, food and shop prices will be higher closer to the city center and main attractions. For less expensive (and perhaps more authentic) Austrian cuisine, head farther away from Old Town .

Culture & Customs

Because of Austria's proximity to Germany, Salzburg's official language is German. However, since most Austrian schools teach English as a second language, most English-speakers can get around Salzburg without experiencing much of a language barrier. But should you require a little help, consider bringing a German dictionary or ask a local for assistance.

Like other Austrian cities, Salzburg has several customary practices that are important to remember during a visit to the region. When greeting someone, shake their hand and say "gruss Gott" (greet God) or "gruss dich" (greet you). And when dining, wait until after a toast is given – such as "guten appetit" (enjoy your meal) – before you start to eat.

Additionally, it is important to understand when tips are applicable in Salzburg. Much like other European countries, Austria includes gratuity in all dining bills. However, if you feel you received good service, add an additional 10% (or round up to the nearest euro) onto the bill total. When taking a cab, tips are expected, so give an extra 10% above the meter fare. And for hotel bellhops and porters, it is customary to give up to 1 euro (about $1) per bag.

What to Eat

Foodies will find plenty to sink their teeth into during their time in Salzburg. Here in the city of Mozart and "The Sound of Music," travelers can find a wide array of eateries and breweries, which range from affordable coffee shops and casual bites to pricier Michelin-starred restaurants and fine dining establishments. Salzburg has many gourmet restaurants within its city limits. As a result, diners can indulge in plenty of top-notch Austrian and German food – which consists of hearty soups, dumplings and stuffed pastries – while visiting Salzburg.

For those on a budget, there are plenty of affordable options. To start, coffee lovers should check out 220 Grad , which roasts all the coffee it serves in-house alongside an assortment of cakes, crostini and small bites. And if you're in need of some authentic Austrian and German comfort classics, grab a bite at Zum Zirkelwirt . The restaurant's menu includes traditional dishes like Wiener schnitzel (fried pork cutlets), gulasch (the Austrian take on Hungarian goulash served with bread), rindsuppe (beef soup with dumplings or pancakes) and marillenknödel (apricot dumplings).

Diners who are willing to spend a bit more coin cannot leave Salzburg without visiting the Michelin-starred Esszimmer . Previous visitors rave about the three-course lunch menu offered here, which features rotating offerings like goose liver pate, halibut and beetroot ice cream alongside recommended wine pairings. Another Michelin-starred option is Restaurant Ikarus , which was established by Red Bull founder Dietrich Mateschitz.

Getting Around Salzburg

The best way to get around Salzburg is on foot and by public transportation. Many of the city's attractions are found in the Altstadt neighborhood, which means many are within walking distance of one another. For short distances, bicycling is a viable option as well. Within the city, fiakers, or horse-drawn carriages, offer a novel – if less economical – way to get around. There are plenty of taxis available throughout the city as well. But if you're interested in venturing outside of the historic city center, Salzburg's BusTaxi and railway are ideal. And for getting to and from Salzburg Airport, bus routes Nos. 2 and 10 routinely stop at the airport and near Altstadt. Regional bus fares start at 2.10 euros (about $2.25) per ride if purchased from the bus driver, while a fare between the airport and Altstadt will cost 2.50 euros (about $2.70). A taxi trip from the airport to the center of town will cost approximately 12 euros (around $12.50).

Entry & Exit Requirements

For visits up to 90 days, U.S. citizens do not need a visa to enter Austria. If you plan on staying longer, proper visa documentation – which can be obtained from the Austrian Embassy – must be completed prior to departure. A passport that is valid for at least six months after your return is required for entry. For more entry and exit requirements, including current COVID-19 advisories, visit the U.S. State Department's website .

Although there's plenty to see and do during the summer months, once the temperatures drop and snow falls, Salzburg transforms into a picturesque winter wonderland.

Explore More of Salzburg

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The Ultimate 2 to 3 Days in Salzburg Itinerary

Last Updated on January 15, 2024

by Maggie Turansky

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

Are you visiting Austria and considering planning a 2 to 3 days in Salzburg itinerary? Well, look no further.

Located in the west of Austria not far from the German city of Munich , Salzburg has been a popular place for visitors for decades and is famous for being the birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and the setting of the 1965 film The Sound of Music . However, Salzburg has much more to offer than simply these two facets.

If you’re considering a visit to this pretty, compact and historic city, planning out an itinerary is essential to maximising the time you will spend there. For such a small city, there really is a lot to do and you’re sure to quickly fall in love with this beautiful town!

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Salzburg?

Before I jump into the details of what to do in the city, you’re likely wondering how many days to spend in Salzburg.

As I’ve mentioned previously, there are plenty of things to do in the city, however, it is also quite compact and many simply opt for a Salzburg day trip from cities like Vienna or Munich. While this is certainly doable, you will get much more out of the city if you spend a bit more time there.

Ideally, you want to try and spend at least 2 days in Salzburg. This will give you enough time to see the main sites while also visiting some museums, taking in a concert and simply allowing you to enjoy the city at a more leisurely pace.

If you have even more time to devote, then consider spending 3 days. This will allow you to visit some areas that lie a bit outside of the city centre, whether that be some historic castles, ice caves, alpine lakes, waterfalls and more. The countryside in this part of Austria is some of the most beautiful in Europe and really worth visiting.

Getting To & Around Salzburg

Salzburg is a major metropolitan area in Austria and is also quite popular with tourism, so this isn’t a difficult city to reach by any means.

Depending on where you are coming from, there are a number of ways to reach Salzburg. There are numerous direct trains and buses from cities like Innsbruck , Munich and Vienna and you can even easily reach the city from Prague or elsewhere in neighbouring countries. You can browse train schedules here.

Many visitors to Salzburg will also arrive by car, especially if they’re on an extended road trip through Austria.

While you certainly don’t need your own vehicle to get around the centre of Salzburg (this would actually be massively inconvenient), having a car can be quite beneficial if you plan to spend 3 days in Salzburg and are going to do a day trip or two as this will give you quite a bit of flexibility. If you choose to rent a car, you can browse options here.

Once in Salzburg, you’ll find that the best way to navigate the city is on foot. Salzburg is very compact and you can pretty much walk from one end of the city centre to the other in about 15-20 minutes. And, besides the area around the fortress and Monchsberg, the city is quite flat so it isn’t too difficult to plan to traverse everything on your own two feet.

2 to 3 Day Salzburg Itinerary

Day 1 – main sites & fortress.

The first day of this itinerary takes you by the main sites of the city. Though Salzburg is quite small and compact, make sure to wear some good walking shoes today as you will be covering quite a bit of ground!

Coffee at Cafe Bazar

Begin your day at a classic Austrian cafe along the River Salzach — the Cafe Bazar.

Though cafe culture may be more associated with a city like Vienna rather than Salzburg, the tradition is actually quite pervasive throughout Austria and it’s something you can experience in cities throughout the country whether you find yourself in Linz or Graz or Salzburg or Vienna . But if you want to get a true Austro-Hungarian cafe experience in Salzburg, Cafe Bazar is really a great place to do it.

Here you can get classic Italian espresso drinks like a cappuccino or a macchiato or you can be a bit more local and get a traditional Austrian coffee, such as a kliener brauner (a shot of espresso served with milk). This is also a good place for breakfast should that be what you’re after.

Getreidegasse

After you’re sufficiently caffeinated, take a stroll across the river to explore the historic centre of Salzburg and take in one of its most iconic streets – Getreidegasse.

Winding through the beautiful baroque architecture, this is the high street of central Salzburg and comes with international shopping options along with a number of historic sites to see.

For instance, while you see how the shopfronts of McDonald’s or an H&M have been seamlessly incorporated into the aesthetic of this street, you can also wander by the birthplace of one Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Salzburg’s most famous resident.

Mozart himself moved to another residence across the river once he was older, however, both homes are available to visit if you should wish.

If you do want to visit both of these museums, it can be worth purchasing the Salzburg Card , where entry is included in the price along with most other attractions in the city.

Once you’ve strolled through the main drag, head a bit further into the city centre and browse through the Grünmarkt – an open-air market that is in operation every day of the week except Sunday.

While this isn’t Salzburg’s main market (that takes place across the street from Mirabell Palace on Thursdays), it does have an array of interesting things to browse through and will allow you to pick up some unique souvenirs from local sources.

Salzburg Cathedral

After browsing through the Grünmarkt, stroll over to the pivotal focal point of central Salzburg – its grand cathedral.

Salzburg was run by the Catholic Church until the early 19th Century and didn’t even become part of what is now modern Austria (then part of the Hapsburg empire) until 1816. Because of this, there are grand Catholic churches dotted around Salzburg but there is one that stands above others — and that is the Salzburg Cathedral.

Entry into the Cathedral is free (though there is a stand at the entrance that will solicit donations — this is optional) and it is really worth going inside and taking in the grandiosity. Another interesting facet of the Cathedral is the entrances, of which there are three doors.

Above each door, there is a date. The first door the year 774 is inscribed above it, describing the year that the first cathedral was built at this site. The second has the year 1628, when the construction of the main cathedral was completed and the third has 1959, when the reconstruction of the cathedral was completed after having been bombed in the Second World War.

Kollegienkirche

If the Salzburg Cathedral wasn’t enough for you to visit, head a few hundred metres away and visit the Kollegienkirche, or the Salzburg University Church.

This church is used mostly as a concert hall these days and is quite unique inside. Where the cathedral has classic frescos and stained glass, the Kollegienkirche is notable for its stark white interior, which is bright and incredibly beautiful.

Like the Cathedral, entry to this church is free of charge.

Residenzplatz

After taking in these amazing sites, find your way to Residenzplatz — Salzburg’s main square.

This large open area is where you will find a beautiful fountain surrounded by the former residence of the Archbishop of Salzburg (which houses a classical art museum), the Salzburg Museum, which is home to a number of historic artefacts from the city through the ages, and the Salzburg Glockenspiel, a belltower that plays songs three times per day.

Residenzplatz is also home to Salzburg’s biggest and most iconic Christmas market, Christkindlmarkt.

You can see all of these sites and more (along with gaining some important historical context) on the Salzburg Free Walking Tour . This tour runs daily and must be booked in advance. Though the tour is free of charge, it is customary to tip the guide at the end as this is how they make their living.

If the free walking tour doesn’t suit your schedule, there are also paid walking tours that run more frequently.

After all of this sightseeing, it’s likely that you’ve worked up quite the appetite. We recommend heading over to the nearby Mus Deli for some modern Austrian & European food at affordable prices. The menu is only in German, however, the staff speak English and will help you with what is on offer.

Now that you’ve refuelled after an eventful morning of sightseeing, it’s time to visit Salzburg’s most imposing and famous landmark — the Hohensalzburg Fortress.

Hohensalzburg Fortress

Sat atop a hill overlooking the city, this is the most iconic part of the city’s skyline and it is considered to be one of the best-preserved fortresses of its kind in Europe.

You can access the fortress either via funicular or by walking up the hill and paying for entry at the top. Entry with the funicular costs €14 per person and without it it is €10.80. Because of all of the walking (and the hike as the next activity on this Salzburg itinerary), I would recommend spending the extra money in order to take the funicular. It is possible to pre-book tickets here.

The fortress consists of several different museums and viewpoints where you can learn about the history of this iconic fortification. There is also a marionette museum there which I found to be a bit creepy, but may be of interest to some.

Hike on Monchsberg

After visiting the fortress, take the time to explore the hill this beautiful building lies on (and get some iconic views, as well) – Monchsberg.

There is a network of hiking trails along Monchsberg that are all incredibly well-maintained and popular for walkers to explore. We recommend walking on the trail in the direction of the Museum of Modern Art before heading down to the Augustiner Brau brewery.

If you’re looking for a great photo-op that includes both the city of Salzburg and amazing views of the fortress, take the time to stop outside of the Museum of Modern Art before continuing on.

The walking trail that I am recommending is well-maintained and relatively flat so it is really an easy hike until you reach your final destination (and comes with some beautiful views, as well).

Augustiner Brau

As a reward for all of the walking and hard work, end your hike at the Augustiner Brau brewery, a classic Austrian beer hall that is sure to give you an authentic Salzburger experience.

This beer hall has different areas where you can enjoy a stein of freshly brewed beer and also food stands where you can grab a snack or a meal (you are also welcome to bring your own food). If the weather is nice, we recommend finding a place in the larger beer garden.

When getting a beer, you can choose between 300ml, 500ml or 1-litre sizes. You pay for your beer at the counter, the cashier will give you a ticket, then you pick up your ceramic steins, rinse them out in the communal tap, and bring them to the barman where he will fill it up for you (in exchange for your ticket!). Make sure to follow the lead of the seasoned locals in front of you to pick up on the etiquette.

This is an excellent experience in Salzburg that I highly recommend.

Evening Concert

After an exhausting day of seeing all of the sites, spend your evening taking in another thing that makes Salzburg famous — classical music! There are countless options to be able to take in a concert in Salzburg depending on which night you’re visiting and what you’re after.

If you’re looking to book some tickets online, some options include this “Best of Mozart” concert at Hohensalzburg Fortress or this concert at Mirabell Palace.

Day 2 – Gardens, Palaces & Museums

If you’re spending 2 days in Salzburg, the second day is a bit more mellow than the first and will allow you to dig a bit deeper into the city and visit a few museums. We’d recommend looking into the Salzburg Card to save some money on entry into several museums and sites around the city.

Schrannemarkt

If you happen to be starting the second day on a Thursday, then make sure to visit the Schrannemarkt.

I, personally, love visiting open-air markets wherever it is that I’m visiting and Salzburg is no different. Located across the street from Mirabell Palace, this market is massive and has countless stalls selling fresh, seasonal produce and local products.

This is an excellent place to pick up some fixings for a picnic later or even buy some gastronomical souvenirs to bring home.

Mirabell Palace & Gardens

If it’s not a Thursday or if markets don’t interest you, start your day at the Mirabell Palace & Gardens. Perhaps most famous as a filming location of The Sound of Music (notably in the “Do-Re-Mi” song), these gardens, in particular, are absolutely gorgeous and worth strolling in and enjoying for as long as you may fancy.

The palace itself is also open for visitors and is notable for its beautiful Marble Hall, which, prior to 2020, hosted over 1000 weddings each year.

The palace (and gardens) are free to enter and you can visit the Marble Hall — it is located on the first floor and is behind a closed door (however, if it is unlocked you can enter so don’t be discouraged!).

This is a primary filming location of The Sound of Music but if you want to dive even more into the making of the film in Salzburg, you can book a Sound of Music tour that will take you by all of the filming locations and more!

Visit a Museum

After enjoying the Mirabell Palace and gardens, take the time to head to a museum or two to learn more about Salzburg, or its most famous resident — Mozart.

You can opt to head to the nearby Mozart House on the north side of the river or to his birthplace on Getreidegasse. Alternatively, visit the Salzburg Museum or even the Museum of Modern Art.

There are countless museums in the city that you could easily fill the entire day.

You’ve likely worked up a bit of an appetite with your sightseeing for the day so take the time to have a quick lunch break at one of Salzburg’s great eateries.

If you’re looking for some international fare, we can recommend Xinchao , a Vietnamese place that has excellent bahn mi.

If you’re after Austrian Cuisine, Gasthaus Zwettler comes recommended, however, we did not eat here ourselves.

Cruise on the River Salzach

On day one of this Salzburg itinerary, you had the opportunity to see Salzburg from above on the view from Monchsberg. Now, it’s time to get a different (and slightly more relaxing) perspective of the city by going on a river cruise.

There are lots of options to cruise up and down the Salzach, such as this 40-minute tour that leaves several times a day.

Sunset Hike up Kapuzinerberg

After a relaxing cruise along the Salzach, it’s time to get a bit active once more and hike up the other major hill dominating Salzburg’s skyline, Kapuzinberg.

This hill, located on the north side of the city, provides a different perspective and excellent views of the Hohensalzburg Fortress and the city below. If you want to get the best photos, head up there just before sunset to really see the city glow under the later afternoon sunshine.

After a busy couple of days, it’s time to reward yourself with a locally brewed beer! You’ve already been to Augustiner Brau so plan to go somewhere a bit more trendy this time, Die Wiesse.

This brewery has several locally brewed wheat beers on tap (some seasonal brews, as well). They have a large and inviting beer garden that is lovely to relax in on warm days and also have a full kitchen, so it’s a great place to grab dinner should you wish, as well.

Day 3 – Explore the Surrounding Area

If you are lucky enough to have 3 days in Salzburg, you can spend your third day going on a day trip somewhere in the surrounding area. Whether you’re looking for some outdoor adventures, beautiful natural wonders or historic castles, there are lots of options available.

Mondsee & Wolfgangsee

If you want to enjoy some tranquillity or watersports in an Alpine lake, then look no further than the lakes Mondsee and Wolfgangsee.

Both are located not far from central Salzburg, these are easy to reach and are absolutely beautiful to visit. Mondsee is bigger and a bit more developed, with lots of watersports and lakeside pubs and restaurants available.

Wolfgangsee is a bit smaller and not quite as busy, however, the town of St Gilgen on the northwest end of the lake can get very popular with tourists. All in all, both lakes are very easy to visit from Salzburg either by car or public transport and are well worth it.

Mondsee and Wolfgangsee are excellent alternatives to the over-visited town of Hallstatt — especially the charming town of St Gilgen on Wolfgangsee.

Werfen Ice Caves & Hohenwerfen Castle

If you’re looking for something jaw-dropping and active, consider visiting the Werfen Ice Caves. Located in the town of Werfen about 40km south of Salzburg, these ice caves are truly spectacular.

They are only open from May through October and a general level of fitness is recommended if you’d like the visit these caves. They are accessed either by a panoramic cable car ride or a steep hike. You can buy tickets in advance online.

Nearby the ice caves lies Hohenwerfen Castle , a medieval castle sat atop an imposing peak overlooking the town of Werfen.

It is considered to be a sister castle to the Hohensalzburg Fortress and is also known as a filming location for the 1968 film Where Eagles Dare . Hohenwerfecn Castle can also be seen in the background during the beginning of the “Do-Re-Mi” scene in, of course, The Sound of Music .

Schloss Hellbrun

Another excellent place to visit just outside of Salzburg (and actually included in the aforementioned Salzburg Card) is Schloss Hellbrun.

This palace is situated very close to central Salzburg and is a wonderful place to visit with children. Filled with beautiful fountains and grottos, you can wander through the water features and feel lost in a mystical world.

Gollinger Waterfall

And finally, if you’re looking for a day of hiking, look no further than the Gollinger Waterfall. Located roughly 30km south of Salzburg, this waterfall is absolutely stunning and is accessible to see from a short hike from the car park.

You get a view of the waterfall almost instantly, however, there is a well-marked and maintained trail that you can take to see the waterfall from different vantage points (this will take about 30 minutes in total to hike).

If you want to go further, there are a number of different hiking trails of various lengths that you can embark on in this area, as well.

Where to Stay in Salzburg

Gästehaus im Priesterseminar – If your budget allows for a bit more than a hostel, then this guesthouse could be a great option. Centrally located in the heart of Salzburg, this beautiful baroque building offers several great rooms.

Boutique Hotel Auersperg – If you’re after a bit of luxury while in Salzburg, then look no further than this elegant hotel. Family-run for generations, this hotel is centrally located close to all of the city’s top attractions. they have luxe rooms available and countless other amenities to ensure your stay is a great one.

Private Rental – If you want to feel like a local while in Salzburg, then a private apartment rental is a great choice for you. There are countless options available in the city, such as this bright central apartment that will suit all kinds of travellers.

Yoho International Youth Hostel – If you’re visiting Salzburg on a budget or are simply looking for a social atmosphere, then this centrally located hostel is a great option. They have both private and dorm rooms available and, for those who want it, a screening of “The Sound of Music” every evening.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Salzburg hotels!

Planning the perfect 2 or 3 days in Salzburg itinerary can be an overwhelming task when you consider how much there is to do in this small city. However, if you plan your time well, you’re sure to get the most out of this beautiful and historic Austrian town.

Are you visiting Austria? Have you been planning a trip to Salzburg? Let us know in the comments!

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About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

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• 1.1 Origins of name
• 1.2 Early history and medieval period
• 1.3 Independent state
• 1.4 Tourist information
• 2.1 By plane
• 2.2 By train
• 3.1 Salzburg Card
• 4.1 Museums
• 5.2 Festivals
• 7.1.1 Winter season
• 7.3 Mid-range
• 7.4 Splurge
• 9.1 Camping
• 9.2 Hostels
• 9.4 Mid-range
• 9.5 Splurge
• 11.1 Consulates

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Salzburg is a city in Austria , near the border with Germany 's Bavaria state, with a population of 157,000 (2020). It was the setting for the 1965 movie The Sound of Music , so you may think you know all there is to see in Salzburg if you have seen the movie. Admittedly, it is difficult not to burst into song when you're walking along the Salzach River, or climbing up to the Hohensalzburg fortress, which looms over the city. But there is a lot more to this compact, courtly city than Julie Andrews and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, who was born here.

Salzburg, which has been inhabited since the Neolithic period, is the fourth-largest city in Austria (after Vienna , Graz and Linz ) and the capital of the federal state of Salzburg . In 45 AD, it was a Roman establishment. The Bavarians took over in the 6th century. At the end of the 16th century, under Archbishop Wolf Dietrich von Raitenau, the transformation of the medieval town into the "Rome of the North" began, with new buildings following the Italian baroque style. The buildings from this era are mostly in the "Old Town", as it is known today. The old town is one of the best-preserved city centers in the German-speaking world and was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997. Salzburg became part of the Austrian Empire in 1816. It frequently ranks favorably in quality of life rankings.

Origins of name

The name Salzburg, literally "Salt Castle", is derived from the barges carrying salt on the Salzach river, which were subject to a toll in the 8th century.

Early history and medieval period

Traces of human settlements dating to the Neolithic Age and later a Celt camp have been found in the area. Starting from 15 BC, the small communities were grouped into a single town which was named by the Romans as Juvavum. Little remains of the city from this period.

The Hohensalzburg Fortress was built in 1077 and expanded in the following centuries. Independence from Bavaria was secured in the late 14th century.

Independent state

Salzburg was the capital of an independent state from the early 14th century until 1805. It was ruled by prince-archbishops, who became rich by the salt mines in the south of the city. This led to the architectural gem you see today, as materials and architects were imported from Italy and other European countries. This is also why, compared to other Austrian cities, sacral monuments surpass the few secular buildings in every respect. The prince-archbishops were forced to give up their political powers during the French occupation in 1805, when Napoleon Bonaparte introduced the concept of separation of Church and State in all the occupied territories.

Tourist information

• Salzburg tourism website

Having arrived at the airport (Flughafen Salzburg), it is very easy to make your way into the town centre by electric trolleybus or other modes of transport. Tickets for these services can be bought easily from the bus driver and you can travel from here to the "Hauptbahnhof" main station where you can reach many destinations, predominantly in Austria, but also across the whole of Europe.

For more international connections, you may prefer flying to Munich and taking the train to Salzburg. Other airports in Austria like Graz or Innsbruck can be of interest if you like scenic journeys through the mountains.

Salzburg's train station, the Hauptbahnhof , is north of the Salzach River within the New Town of Salzburg. The train ride from Munich to Salzburg takes about 1½ hours (Regional trains take about 2 hours), and international trains operate from Zurich, Zagreb, Ljubljana and Budapest and other destinations. Inter-city trains operate very frequently (especially to Vienna where services are almost hourly).

The ÖBB Nightjet runs to Salzburg from Belgium, Germany, Italy and Switzerland.

The station is operated by the Austrian Federal Railway Company (ÖBB) and by the national German Railway company (DB) . Both companies have ticket stalls and machines in the station. The popular train pass for Bavaria sold by DB (in German: Bayern Ticket) covers train rides between Bavaria and Salzburg, but it is only valid for Regional trains (code RE, RB, or M). The rail pass can be brought from DB ticket stalls and from DB ticket selling machines in the station.

Salzburg has direct train connections with Vienna , Linz , Feldkirch (at the Liechtenstein border), Zürich (in Switzerland ), etc.

The station has a supermarket which is open 06:00-23:00, lockers (from €2 to €3.50, which are often full), and toilets (€0.50/entry).

To get to the city centre, walk (about 15 min), or use one of the trolley buses.

• Budweis-shuttle " http://www.budweis-shuttle.cz " and Czechshuttle.com offers a door-to-door shuttle bus transfer from Česky Krumlov or Česke Budejovice to Salzburg and back for 1,100 Kč per person.
• From Bosnia, ( Banja Luka or Doboj ), three times per week, with Boro Bus [ dead link ]
• Bus transfer from/to Budapest with a possible stop in Vienna, from door to door, English-speaking drivers with Eurobusways [ dead link ]
• There are day-trip tour buses that leave from Munich (right outside the main station).
• The Flixbus stop is in Salzburg Sud, not really near the main train station.

Salzburg is well connected to Vienna (Wien) and Munich (München), Germany via the autobahns A8 (Munich - Salzburg) and A1 (Salzburg - Vienna). There is an Austrian Motorway "Vignette" you have to purchase. The price varies depending on whether you buy a yearly or 10-day vignette.

Driving around Salzburg can be a pain. The road names are small and written in a "traditional" German font which can be hard to read. The best bet is to get into the city, find a parking space, and travel by foot. Several garages are on the edge of the historic center have hourly rates as well as 24-hour rates that range from €14-20. Garage companies include Best in Parking , APCOA , Contipark . Nearby hotels often have arrangements for discounted rates with commercial garages. More budget options include using one of the park-and-ride lots that have promotions for a free transit pass or even free parking during summer months. Be sure that if you are driving in cold weather to be prepared for snow. Snow chains should be recommended, in extreme weather. All cars must have snow tires ( Winterreifen ) by law from October to April.

The best way to get around Salzburg is by foot.

There is a network of city buses, the StadtBus , with numbers from 1 to 10, 12 and 14 (O-Buses, electric, trolley-bus) and 20-27 (fuel-powered). From the bus driver, you only get a single A single ticket for €3. The other option is buying a 5-ticket-strip in advance (€11,50). A 24-hr ticket costs €4.70, when bought at the vending machine (all prices from 2024). There are also daily, weekly and monthly passes. The Salzburg Verkehr application allows you to buy these tickets from your mobile phone. Make sure that you do not catch one of the last buses. They will take you several kilometers out of town with your only way back being by walking or taxi. If you need to get somewhere late at night it may be best to take a taxi or walk. The "Lokalbahn" train has a separate train station under the main train station and travels in the direction of Oberndorf and Lamprechtshausen. Tickets can be bought on the train.

From May 2025, overnight guests will pay a mobility contribution of initially 50 cents per day (from May 2027 1.10 €/day) and can use all public transport in the state of Salzburg free of charge.

Another option for exploring areas around the main city (Bad Ischl, Fuschlsee, etc.) are the POST-BUSes . These also leave from the main train station; tickets can be bought from the driver.

An excellent option is renting a bike. Salzburg has over 100 km of bike paths, and using this mode of transportation is often faster than bus, car or foot. There are also excellent bike paths on either side of the river which you can follow to either Freilassing (35 min), Oberndorf or Hallein (each about an hour away).

Salzburg Card

Depending on how long you want to stay in Salzburg and how much you want to pack into one day, the Salzburg Card could be a good investment, it includes:

• Free single admission to all the city's attractions.
• Free use of public transport throughout the city, including fortress funicular, panorama boat & cable car Untersberg.
• Attractive discounts for cultural events.
• Discounts for various tours and excursions.

Salzburg Card 24 hr/adult: €28.00, 48 hours: €37.00, 72 hours: €43.00

• 47.76259 13.06002 10 Hellbrunn Trick Fountains ( Wasserspiele Hellbrunn ), ☏ +43 662 820372 , [email protected] . Park with trick fountains. ( updated Mar 2023 )
• 47.80265 13.04374 12 Mozarts Wohnhaus ( Mozart Residence ), Makartplatz 8 , ☏ +43-662-874227-40 , [email protected] . Daily 09:00-18:00 (last admission: 17:30), open until 19:00 Jul-Aug . Mozart’s Residence was reconstructed after being destroyed during World War II and was opened to the public in 1996. Adults €10 (with birth house €17), youths and school groups 15-18 €4, children 6-14 €3.50, family €21 .  
• 47.7937 13.0074 18 Hangar 7 , Wilhelm-Spazier-Straße 7A , ☏ +43 662 2197 , [email protected] . 09:00 - 22:00 daily . Transportation museum housing the historical Flying Bulls fleet and several historic race cars. The collection itself will not be too spectacular unless you're a race fanatic, but the building itself with its glass domed roof is worth a visit. ( updated Mar 2023 )
• Casino Salzburg , 5071 Wals-Siezenheim , ☏ +43 662 85 44 55 . Open daily except for December 24. Slot machines: 12:00-03:00, Live games: 15:00-03:00 . Free admission .  
• Chess — Giant chess board painted onto the ground, past the cathedral (travelling away from the river). You'll have to wait your turn, but it's worth it.
• Football: FC Red Bull Salzburg play soccer in the Austrian Bundesliga, the top tier. They play in Red Bull Arena (capacity 32,000) in Wals-Siezenheim 3 km northwest of city centre.
• Salt Mines Hallein , [email protected] . — There are a few different salt mine tours available in Salzburg's immediate surroundings. A good one is Salzwelten Salzburg in Bad Dürrnberg near Hallein. Getting there is easy with the Salz Erlebnis Ticket , available at the train station; it covers the local train and a bus transfer (round-trip), admission, and the (required) Salzwelten tour. The tour is great for families, although children under 4 are not allowed on the tour. Put on white coveralls, ride a trolley into the mine, and use wooden slides to descend into the lower levels. A café and picnic benches are available on-site, as well as a small reconstructed Celtic village that includes a playground. Allow about 2½ hours for the tour and the Celtic Village. Apr-Oct: 09:00-17:00, Nov-Dec: 10:00-15:00. Adults €23; students/juniors/senior €21; children 4-15 years €11.50. Family and Group tickets are available. ( updated Feb 2019 )

For almost a century, Salzburg has hosted the world-famous Salzburg Festival , with operas, concerts, and theater plays in different locations throughout the city. It was founded by Hugo von Hoffmansthal, Max Reinhardt and Richard Strauss in 1920. It takes place in July and August, the most famous piece is the "Jedermann" (" Everyman ") by Hugo v. Hoffmansthal, being conducted in front of the Dom (Cathedral) every year.

Festivals also take place during Easter time (with mostly Baroque music), and in autumn.

• Mozartkugeln ( Mozart balls ) are confections of chocolate, marzipan, pistachio and sometimes hazelnut inspired by the famous composer, Salzburg's most famous son, Mozart. Try the original version by Fürst , which are handmade and cannot be purchased outside Fürst's four shops in Salzburg. They're expensive, though, at €1.80 a pop (souvenir boxes cost even more), and comparatively simple with only two layers. The cheaper, more widespread and arguably tastier Mirabell brand is available throughout Austria; you'll get the best prices at regular grocery stores, not souvenir shops. The third big name is Reber [ dead link ] , which has three chocolate shops in the Old Town with a wide range of chocolates, Kugeln and pastettes (Alter Markt 5; Griesgasse 3; Getreidegasse 26). Souvenir shops sell other brands too, which tend to cheap out on their ingredients and are best avoided.
• The annual Christmas Market ( Christkindlmarkt ), located at the three squares around the dome ( Domplatz, Kapitelplatz, Residenzplatz ) features traditional fast food, such as hot potatoes, doughnuts with kraut, and candies, as well as Christmas decorations, winter clothes, and craftmanship. It opens end of November and closes on Christmas.

A typical dessert from Salzburg is the Salzburg Nockerl , a tasty baked soufflé best served with ice cream, berries and whipped cream. Good places make it to order, which takes at least 30 minutes, and the serving size is huge: one Nockerl is easily enough for four!

Street food

• 47.801215 13.042063 1 Salzburger Würstelkönigin , Ferdinand-Hanusch-Platz 5 . Gorgeous hotdogs and great spot to chill by the Salzburg river. The grilled meat sandwich with the Century Sauce (Jahrhundertsoße) is amazing. You can meet the whole world here. ( updated Sep 2022 )
• 47.801614 13.04478 2 Heisse Kiste , Schwarzstraße 4 . An institution. Recommended are the Leberkäs and the Käsekrainer. Real sausage culture - very tasty. One of the most popular addresses among the people enjoying Salzburg's nightlife to grab a sausage with bread for a midnight snack. ( updated Sep 2022 )
• 47.799359 13.044021 3 Lechners Würstelstand! , Universitätspl. 18 . If you want to try Austrias original street food in Salzburg, this is the place to go. Very traditional, very tasty. Service is fast. Everything is delicious. ( updated Sep 2022 )
• 47.799928 13.045463 4 Würstelstand Alter Markt , Alter Markt 3 . The Käsekrainer and the warm sauerkraut are delicious. Tasty fries, Bosna and whatever the sausage heart desires. There might be a queue and then it takes some time... ( updated Sep 2022 )

Winter season

• 47.801173 13.042025 5 Maroni-Salzburg , Hanuschplatz 1 , ☏ +43 662 824372 . Have roasted chestnuts and a glass of glühwein in the winter season right before you start off to the Christmas Market. Maronibraterei Salzburg ( updated Dec 2021 )

• 47.80039 13.04253 6 Wilder Mann , Getreidegasse 20 . Wilder Mann offers traditional Austrian cuisine. The restaurant provides large portions and friendly-service. Smoking is allowed in the restaurant. ( updated Sep 2022 )
• 47.805398 13.052647 7 Schmankerl , Glockengasse 10 . Affordable meals and you support a social project of the town of Salzburg. Very friendly staff, well attended. The meals are good. ( updated Sep 2022 )
• 47.799209 13.046614 8 Paninoteca Piccolo Mondo , Waagpl. 5 . A lovely selection of paninis that look really lovely and taste just like Italy. Quality wines and tasty pasta. Recommendation for the antipasti platter. ( updated Sep 2022 )
• 47.797719 13.049006 9 Burrito Factory , Kaigasse 15 . You feel like you are in a host family who has invited you to dinner in Mexico. You should reserve a table at lunchtime because the restaurant is quite small, which is exactly what makes it so charming. Very friendly service. ( updated Sep 2022 )
• 47.804749 13.043853 10 Pommes Boutique , Mirabellplatz 7 . A wonderful stop for those who love burgers and fries. Vegetarian options available. Outdoor seating. ( updated Sep 2022 )
• 47.798536 13.048715 11 Uncle Van , Pfeifergasse 2 . A lovely little place completely unexpected in an otherwise unremarkable street. Great concept to select the ingredients for your wok. Very tasty. Also everyone who wants to eat vegetarian is at the right place here. ( updated Sep 2022 )
• 47.801567 13.045435 12 Reyna Kebap , Steingasse 3 . Great kebab and very good pizza until late at night. Super Bosna. Very nice staff. ( updated Sep 2022 )

Many of the beer halls listed under Drink are also great mid-range options.

• 47.8059 13.03577 13 Bärenwirt , Müllner Hauptstraße 8 , ☏ +43 662 422-404 . Traditional food, traditionally furnished restaurant, rather cheap, fabulous beer from the close by Augustiner Bräu. ( updated Sep 2022 )
• 47.78619 13.06582 14 Raschhofer's Rossbräu , Alpenstraße 48 , ☏ +43 662 626-444 . Traditional, yet somewhat updated, Austrian fare. They serve excellent "Kaiserschmnarrn" a "breakfast" (yet really a dessert). ( updated Sep 2022 )
• 47.798151 13.04949 15 Zirkel Wirt , Pfeifergasse 14 ( Papagenoplatz ). Delicious traditional and some not-so-traditional food, vegetarian-friendly, great beer, good atmosphere. ( updated Sep 2022 )
• 47.802334 13.045582 16 Gabler Bräu , Linzergasse 9 , ☏ +43 662 889-650 . Traditional food of high quality, a big selection of salads from the self-service-menu. ( updated Sep 2022 )
• 47.799337 13.045916 17 Gasthof Goldgasse , Goldgasse 10 , ☏ +43 662 84 82 00 , [email protected] . 7AM - 24AM . Seasonal, regional, and of the highest quality. ( updated Sep 2022 )
• 47.79363 13.00747 18 Hangar 7 / Ikarus , Wilhelm Spazier Straße 7a , ☏ +43 662 2197 . If you seek a special environment for your dinner this is the place, a top-cuisine restaurant and a great bar close to the airport. ( updated Sep 2022 )
• 47.7992 13.04714 19 KOLLER+KOLLER am Waagplatz - Restaurant & Tagesbar , Waagplatz 2 , ☏ +43 662 842-156 . Excellent Austrian fare in a romantic intimate setting. Just steps away from the Salzburg Cathedral on Mozart Plaza. A 3-course meal for two people with a bottle of wine was about €90. ( updated Sep 2022 )
• 47.799927 13.040628 21 Restaurant Blaue Gans , 41-43, Getreidegasse . Traditional and noble. Great 'Schnitzel'. ( updated Sep 2022 )
• 47.80198 13.0436 22 Café Sacher Salzburg , Schwarzstraße 5-7, A-5020 Salzburg , ☏ +43 662 - 88 977 0 . Trying the original Sacher-Torte is a must for all chocolate lovers out there. But there's more to Café Sacher than just cake. They also serve delicious hot food at prices cheaper than other touristy places listed here - plus you enjoy the service and ambiance of the Sacher Hotel. ( updated Sep 2022 )
• 47.80527 13.03387 1 Augustiner Bräustübl , Lindhofstrasse 7 ( near Muller Hauptstr, or Augustinergasse 4, On the Mönchsberg, bus stop Landeskrankenhaus, or a 20-min walk along the river from the city center ), ☏ +43 662 431-246 . Augustine monks have been brewing here since 1621. Today it's Austria's largest beer hall, with a lovely garden outside when the weather is nice and enormous inside halls when it isn't. Grab a table, a few ceramic steins of Märzenbier beer straight from the barrel, and pick your favorite Austrian dishes from the market-style shops. Or you can bring your own food (not drinks!) if you want. 1/2L beer €3.60 . ( updated Sep 2022 )
• The Shamrock , Rudolfskai 12, Judengasse 1 , ☏ +43 662 841-610 . Guinness, cider, German and Austrian beer as well, occasional live music, and a nice atmosphere. Popular with local university students. Expect the place to be packed on a weekend night.  
• Stiegl Brauwelt , Bräuhausstrasse 9 . Bus stop Bräuhausstrasse on line 1. Tour the brewery and museum and have a Stiegl in the brewery's own pub and beer garden. The tour costs €9 and it includes three 20cl drinks and a gift.  
• Stieglkeller , Festungsgasse 10 , ☏ +43 662 8426810 . 11:00-23:00 . The Stieglkeller is open from May to September. It offers a small choice of traditional dishes, Stiegl beers, Radler and other drinks. It is most recommendable for its fantastic panoramic view over the city. The lower terrace is with service, though you are expected to consume food there. The upper two terraces are self-service areas.  
• O'Malley's . Everyone goes here. Great bartenders. Open late for real drinkers.  
• Die Weisse , Rupertgasse 10 ( near Linzergasse ), ☏ +43 662 872-2460 . Located in one of Salzburg's most historic breweries, this is where all the locals hang out. It's best to make reservations Wednesday through Saturday as it can get crowded. They also serve treats from Bavaria and Salzburg!  
• Republic , Anton-Neumayr-Platz 2 . A modern café with good breakfast, and a variety of cultural events (Jazz Brunch, Clubbing, special theme parties at night). Turns into one of the most popular places to be during night. ( updated Nov 2018 )
• Shakespeare , Hubert Sattler Gasse 3 ( close to Mirabell castle ), ☏ +43 662 879 106 . Art café with good Chinese cuisine, cheap lunch menu during the week. ( updated Nov 2018 )
• Anifer Mühlenbrot , Markatplatz . A tiny bakery with a tasty selection of sweets and snacks, and serves cheap breakfast, even though there is only one table. Try the Berger chocolates. ( updated Nov 2018 )
• Afro Café , Bürgerspitalgasse ( at the end of Getreidegasse ). A funky, modern café with decoration inspired by urban African style. Offers a variety of unconventional and great food and drinks. ( updated Nov 2018 )
• Café Sacher Salzburg , Schwarzstraße 5-7, A-5020 Salzburg , ☏ +43 662 - 88 977 0 . Excellent coffee (try the Wiener Melange if you like your cappuccinos) and great cakes and desserts. The Sacher-Torte hardly requires an introduction. But there are more cakes and tortes. The Strudel is great, and if you have a big appetite the Kaiserschmarrn (huge pancake-like dessert with plum confit and lots of sugar!) will not disappoint you. And it's not as expensive as you might imagine given this is a 5-star hotel. In fact, you'll spend the same, if not more, in any other café in the old part of town.  
• Nord-Sam , Samstraße 22a , ☏ +43 662 660-157 , [email protected] . Decent sized site with a pool, shop, washing facilities, and on a bus route. By car via A1 Salzburg-Wien (Vienna), exit Salzburg-Nord. Follow signs to Nord-Sam after the traffic lights. Takes about 20 minutes to get into the city and is in a peaceful residential area with a supermarket (Spar) a short walk away.  
• [ dead link ] Hotel Lasserhof Salzburg , Lasserstrasse 47 . This family-run hotel is located within walking distance of the Mirabell Castle and Gardens. Breakfast is included, and is served 07:00-12:00. There is also free Internet access.  
• [ formerly dead link ] Youth and Family Guesthouse Salzburg - Hostelling International , Josef Preis Allee 18 , ☏ +43 5 7083-613 , fax : +43 5 7083-611 , [email protected] . Renovated hostel. Breakfast and linens included. Amenities included: internet, café/bar, and a common room. The Sound of Music is shown nightly at 20:00 in the common room. €15.50-43 .  
• YoHo (International Youth Hotel Salzburg) , Paracelsusstraße 9 , ☏ +43 662 879-649 , fax : +43 662 878-810 , [email protected] . Check-in: 11:00 , check-out: 10:00 . The Youth Hotel offers guests clean rooms at reasonable prices. They also show The Sound of Music every morning at 10:30. €19-29 .  
• Landesberufsschülerheim Aigen - Hosteling International , Aignerstaße 34 , ☏ +43 662 623248 , fax : +43 662 623248 4 . This hostel has 156 beds and a fitness room.  
• Landesberufsschülerheim Haunspergstraße - Hosteling International , Haunspergstraße 27 , ☏ +43 662 875-030 , fax : +43 662 883-477 , [email protected] . 24 rooms all with an attached washroom and Internet access.  
• Eduard Heinrich Haus - Hosteling International , Eduard-Heinrich-Straße 2 , ☏ +43 662 625-976 , fax : +43 662 627-980 , [email protected] . The hostel is open 365 days a year, and offers its guests Internet and a TV room. Most of the rooms have an attached washroom. Prices start from €16.  
• Muffin Hostel Salzburg , Hegigasse 9 , ☏ +43 664 63 67 635 , [email protected] . The hostel is opened from 13 July till 6 September and offers wide range of facilities, great location and superb prices starting from €21.  
• A&O Hostel Salzburg Hauptbahnhof , Fanny-von-Lehnert-Straße 4 , ☏ +43 662 2342000 , [email protected] . Rooms for couples, groups and families for very cheap rates. Close to the main train station. rates starting from €11 .  

• Gasthaus Hinterbrühl , Schanzlgasse 12 , ☏ +43 622 846-798 , fax : +43 622 841-859 . Edge of old town in a building constructed in 1380, the plumbing is slightly more modern. €37-70 (without breakfast) or €42-85 (with breakfast) .  
• AllYouNeed Hotel Salzburg , Glockengasse 4b , [email protected] . The hotel is open from 1 July to 30 September and has 69 non-smoking rooms en-suite with hairdryer, flat-TV with cable access, telephone and free internet, 1 handicapped accessible room, breakfast buffet and breakfast room with a panorama terrace overlooking the rooftops of Salzburg, lift, lobby with seating, parking (extra charge), luggage storage, concierge service.  
• Hotel Gasthof Kamml , Brückenstraße 5 , ☏ +43 662-850267 , fax : +43 662 850267-13 , [email protected] .  
• City Hotel Wolf-Dietrich , Wolf-Dietrich-Straße 7 ( Old Town ) , ☏ +43 662 871-275 , fax : +43 662 871275-9 , [email protected] . The hotel has rooms decorated in a classic style. Each room has a private bathroom and minibar. The hotel also offers its guests an organic breakfast buffet. Rooms start from €75 and vary according to season.  
• Hotel Haus Arenberg , Blumensteinstraße 8 , ☏ +43 662 640097 , [email protected] . Quietly located on a slope of the Kapuzinerberg this Hotel Garni "House Arenberg" offers a special kind of stay. The view of the City with its breathtaking mountain panorama as well as the sophisticated atmosphere of the Salzburgian lifestyle give the feeling of country-live in the midst of the city.  
• Hotel Auersperg , Auerspergstraße 61 , ☏ +43 662 889-440 , [email protected] . Part of the Golden Tulip chain but with an independent feel, this hotel is just off the Linzergasse, close to all old town sights and a pleasant 5-10 min walk into the city centre. Free mulled wine, a fantastic rooftop sauna/spa/winter garden complex (also free) and free wi-fi internet access all over the hotel. Breakfast buffet included and served until 11:00. €85-180 (low season) to €120-240 (high season) .  
• Hotel Trumer Stube , Bergstraße 6 , ☏ +43 662 874-776 , +43 662 875-168 , fax : +43 622 874-326 , [email protected] . Family-run three-star hotel just off the Linzergasse, close to all old town sights. Hosts are exceptionally friendly and knowledgeable. Breakfast buffet included. €89-125 (low season) to €133-161 (high season) .  
• Ambiente-Hotel Struber , Nonntaler Haupstrasse 35 , ☏ +43 662 84 37 28 , fax : +43 622 84 37 28 8 , [email protected] . Family-run hotel, set in a central location, with spacious rooms, near the old town, yet surrounded by meadows. Rooms reflecting Salzburg tradition, feature shower (or bath tub), toilet, phone, satellite TV and radio. Some rooms have balcony with view of Salzburg Castle.Car park right in front of the hotel. €90-126 (low season) to €138-168 (high season) .  
• 47.80538 13.04858 3 NH Salzburg City , Franz-Josef-Strasse 26 , ☏ +43-662-8820410 . This 4-star hotel offers comfortable rooms and is located in the heart of the city. The hotel itself is very modern and offers many amenities to make the stay very comfortable. Rooms from €65 .  
• 47.80899 13.0541 7 Holiday Inn , Sterneckstrasse 21 . Well furnished rooms. Reasonable breakfast, good service. A little way out of the centre of town. Has parking, some free, mostly paid. €120 .  
• [ formerly dead link ] Romantik & Spa Hotel Gmachl , Dorfstrasse 14 - 5161 Elixhausen , ☏ +43 48 02 12 72 , fax : +43 48 02 12 72-12 . - On the green outskirts of the city, just about an 8 km drive from Salzburg’s historic heart, you will find the Romantik Hotel Gmachl, the oldest family-run establishment in all of Austria (established in 1334). The hotel offers 35 luxurious rooms, an accredited restaurant and an exclusive Spa & Beauty area, boasting a bio-sauna, infrared cabin, aroma steam bath, fitness room, mist grotto, tanning studio and an outdoor pool heated year-round.  
• Hotel Bergrose , A-5350 Strobl Weissenbach 162 , ☏ +43 61 37 - 54 31 , fax : +43 61 37 54 31-5 , [email protected] . Hotel Bergrose is a very romantic hotel at the legendary Wolfgangsee close to Salzburg.  

Salzburg has 4G from all Austrian carriers. As of Sept 2021, 5G has not reached the city.

Wifi is widely available in public places.

• Hallein (22 000 inhabitants) with the Hallein Salt Mine [ dead link ] also known as Salzbergwerk Dürrnberg .
• Bad Reichenhall (Germany) and Berchtesgaden (Germany)
• If you get tired of the city you can visit the ice caves south of Salzburg
• Oberndorf , a small city next to Salzburg where Silent Night, Holy Night , the famous Christmas song, was composed and premiered. You can see the Silent Night Chapel there.
• For people who prefer nature to sights, hiking on the Untersberg [ dead link ] , a trip to Salzkammergut or the Königssee (Germany), or a visit to Bad Ischl may be interesting.
• Hallstatt , a UNESCO world heritage city, can be reached in about 2 hours by bus through Bad Ischl , or 3 hours by train through Attnang-Puchheim .
• Freilassing (Germany) is a small German town just across the border, 10-15 minutes by train. Some locals prefer to shop here as goods are slightly cheaper than in Austria.
• Salzburg is about 2 hours from Munich (Germany) and Passau (Germany), 2 hours from Vienna , and is only a stone's throw from the Alps .

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‎ Europe ‎ >  Austria > Salzburg Travel Guide

Top 10 Salzburg Tips | Suggested Itineraries For Salzburg

• Top 10 Things To Do
• Old Town Walking Tour
• Sound of Music Movie Tour
• Mozart Walking Tour
• Best Viewpoints In Salzburg
• More Sights
• Best Day Trips
• Helpful Visitor Tips
• Best Places To Stay
• Suggested Itineraries

Salzburg, Austria:

Meaning : Salzburg ( German ) means Salt Castle Settled In :  Neolithic Era on Kapuzinerberg; continuous settlement by the Celts by the 5th century BC; concentrated by the Romans in 15 BC as Juvavum ( covered all of old town by 30AD, municipal in 45AD ); modern city established in 696; renamed Salzburg by 755; given free commune status ( Imperial City ) in 1287. Governed By :  Prince-Archbishop from 1328-1803; annexed into Austria in 1805 then Bavaria in 1810, then back to Austria in 1816; Austro-Hungarian Empire 1867-1918; Austria 1918-1938; annexed in Germany 1938-1945; back to Austria again. Language :  German ( Deutsch ) with some very basic English Suggested Length of Stay :  Salzburg is a city that you can tour the heart of in 1 day, but we suggest 2-3 full days to really get the best experience.

Overview of Salzburg:

Gaining wealth from the surround salt mines, Salzburg has been able to stay out of most wartime conflicts to remain one of the most well preserved Central European cities. Salzburg is scenic, cozy, and home of Mozart, the beautiful Mirabell Gardens & Palace, and the backdrop for The Sound of Music.  While it might seem quaint, the city tucked into the Alps is actually the fourth largest city in Austria.

Our FREE Salzburg Tours: There is a ton to do in and around Salzburg and you can get the most out of your trip by following our free walking tours.

1.  Old Town Salzburg Free Walking Tour 2.  Sound of Music Movie Locations Tour

Top 10 Things To Do In Salzburg:

1. Visit The Mozart Sights 2. See The Sound of Music Film Locations 3. Tour Salzburg High Fortress 4. Explore St Peter’s Church & Cemetery 5. Shop On The Medieval Getreidgasse

Read More : Top 10 Things To Do In Salzburg

History Of Salzburg: Neolithic Era on Kapuzinerberg; continuous in the area by the Celts by the 5th century BC; concentrated by the Romans in 15 BC as Juvavum (  municipal in 45AD );  municipium Claudium Iuvavum was official name making it the first urban settlement with the right to self-administration north of the Alps.  yet still behind the frontier at 90km from the Danube

It was an important traffic junction a) for the continuation of the Salzach road N in the direction of Castra Regina (Regensburg) and b) for the Noric road in the direction of Ovilava (Wels) and Launiacum (Lorch-Enns) on the Danube limes.  Iuvavum never was a garrison and did not have walls but did flourish, a large necropolis on road out of town across the river on Linzergasse, Emperor Nero (AD 54-68)  covered all of old town; left to right by 30AD

destroyed in the Marcomannic War in 171 against Germanic tribes (Markomans and Quads); rebuilt over 25 years. with forum and capital believed to be in the center, Residenzplatz of an altar to Jupiter and all the gods, blocks found from the time of Septimius Severus, eastern forum had Temple of Asklepios found on the curve of Kaigasse 45.5 meters long and 29.6 meters wide since many pertinent sculptures have been found in this area (statuettes of Asklepios, of Hygieia, a votive altar for Asklepios Augustus, a Serapis head), Residenzplatz they found ruins of Roman buildings, walls, road, and Weihealtar with an inscription of the river god “Iuvavus” Petersfriedhof catacombs and tunnels under Nonnberg go back to Roman times,  in Roman times Nonnberg was a Hercules and Mercury Shrine.

Germanic Western Roman officer Odoacer disposes of last Western Roman Emperor in 476 and calls himself the 1st King of Italy.  Conflicts with Germanic Rugii tribes areas north of Alps are abandoned by Romans around 488AD who retreat leaving the Romano-Celtic locals who are joined by members of the Germanic Bavarii tribes

in 696AD Saint Rupert ( Frankish missionary & Bishop of Worms ) was given castrum superius or Salzpurch ( hill fort ) by the Duke of Bavaria in the capital of Regensburg and founded Salzburg by building Saint Peter’s monastery on the site of an older church of Stiftskirche by Severinus of Noricum known as St. Severin (410-482) Nonnberg nunnery ( 711 by his sister Erentrudis ) world’s oldest continuous Christian women convent; the fort was basically where Nonnberg is today with a small settlement ( oppidum ) below; Rupert died in Worms in 718. His bones were transferred to Salzburg by the holy Bishop Virgil on the occasion of the inauguration of the new building of the Salzburg Cathedral on 24 September 774.

996 gain market rights by Emperor Otto II

1006  first Nonnberg Monastery burns and a new one built (rebuilt again after fire 1464 to 1509), High Fortress in  1077 present-day Romanesque Saint Peter’s Abbey from 1130 or 1167 over a Carolingian church from the 800

As early as 1287 the citizens of Salzburg were granted (political) rights for the first time with the Letter of Atonement.

1331 first Rupert’s feast

Independence from Bavaria was secured in 1328 followed by the building of the walls and Franziskener-Church (1408) under the rule of the Prince-Archbishops 1481 twice a year markets allowed.

1500-1600 baroque buildings, and was the 2nd largest church state in Europe behind the Vatican domed church fire in 1598 and the square is redone in Italian style, Salzburg Cathedral consecrated 1628 (also 774 & 1959, shown on wrought-iron gates ) The many treasures of this cathedral include a bronze baptismal font (1311) with lions at its base (1200), in which Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Joseph Mohr, the man who wrote the words for “Silent Night!” baptized The very first cathedral was built in 767 under bishop Virgil, subsequently consecrated to Saints Peter and Rupert in the year 774. After a fire in 1167, Archbishop Konrad III had the cathedral rebuilt, now more magnificent than ever, with the work completed in just ten years: now the mightiest Romanesque minster north of the Alps. The remains of these two former churches can still be viewed in the cathedral crypt.

1756 Mozart born in the Hagenauer House were the family had a 3rd-floor apartment since 1747, later moved to the Residence in 1773

1805 annexed into Austria along with Berchtesgaden, but then both to Bavaria in 1809 until Austria sent back in 1816.  1818 bad fire and Silent Night played in in St. Nikolaus’ Church, Oberndorf on Dec 25th

1852 Café Tomaselli, first Salzburg Festival 1920, Germany 1938, 7600 homes bombed in 1944 along with bridges and cathedral dome.

Today Salzburg still has 50 churches ranging in style from Romanesque and Gothic to Baroque.

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Home » Europe » Austria » Salzburg

EPIC SALZBURG Itinerary! (2024)

Nestled along the Eastern Alps and the border of Germany, lays Salzburg, Austria’s storybook city. With crisp, clean air, tidy streets, and snow-capped mountains, countless visitors are allured by Salzburg’s fairytale-like enchantment.

Many people know Salzburg as the primary location used for filming the famous movie, “The Sound of Music,” as well as the birthplace Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. Creativity in Salzburg runs deep and is evident in every aspect of the city’s culture, heritage, and history.

To help you explore the city with ease, we’ve laid out the perfect Salzburg itinerary! Whether you’re spending 2 days in Salzburg, or two weeks, we’ve packed it full of useful information that will ensure you hit the city’s highlights, as well as some hidden gems!

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Best time to visit Salzburg

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Here is a quick look at the seasons so you can decide when to visit Salzburg!

The Summer months (June – August) are a great time to visit Salzburg in terms of warm weather. However, the pleasant temperatures are accompanied by plenty of rain. Precipitation in summer is abundant, and up to half of the days of the season have significant rainfall.

If you’re planning a 2 days’ trip to Salzburg during June, make sure to stick around for the annual Dult Fair! This is one of Salzburg’s top festivals, it’s a traditional folk festival for young and old!

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During the fall (September – November) months the temperatures will start to decline, and the first snowfall of the season usually starts in November. If you don’t mind cooler temperatures, this is a great time to travel to Salzburg and beat the tourist crowds!

The winter months (December – February) are cold with temperatures at, or just below, freezing. Touring Salzburg in December is very popular as the whole town is decked out for Christmas and transformed into a winter wonderland.

Spring in Salzburg (March-May) sees a rise in temperatures, however, snowfall in March and early April is common.

With a Salzburg City Pass , you can experience the best of Salzburg at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

Choosing the right accommodation that fits with your travel plans will complement your Salzburg itinerary and make your trip that much more satisfying. There are lots of options in varying styles and budgets to choose from.

Salzburg is a small and compact city, and the majority of the ‘must-see’ Salzburg attractions are located within or near the Old Town. Therefore, you can’t go wrong choosing an accommodation option in this area.

If you have more time to spend in Austria and are looking for accommodation outside the busy center of Salzburg, Saint Gilgen is a great option! This charming town is located just 17 miles from Salzburg’s city center and will allow for a more peaceful and relaxing vacation.

This small village has a scenic setting and is a great place to base your Salzburg itinerary from. Whatsmore, it’s well connected to the Old Town of Salzburg by public transportation, so getting in and out of the city will be a breeze!

Best Hostel in Salzburg – Yoho International Youth Hostel Salzburg

If you’re planning a budget vacation in Salzburg, the Yoho International Youth Hostel is for you! Some of the popular perks include free Wi-Fi, an on-site bar and restaurants with happy hour specials, and buffet breakfast available every morning (for a fee).

Best Airbnb in Salzburg – Modern Apartment in the Heart of Altstadt

Located in the middle of the historic old town in Salzburg, this newly built and furnished apartment is ideal for first time visitors to Salzburg. It consists of a bedroom, a small fully-equipped kitchen, a bathroom and a dining area. Walk around and explore the city of Mozart, and come home to this comfortable place to rest from the weary day of sightseeing.

Best Budget Hotel in Salzburg – Hotel Turnerwirt

Dating from 1437, Hotel Turnerwirt is a family-run accommodation spot located a convenient 1.2-miles from the city center. The hotel has three parts – the main building, the atrium, and the romantic villa with a terrace! The building is quaint, but the rooms are modern, with free Wi-Fi running through the property and the usual hotel facilities provided.

Best Luxury Hotel in Salzburg – Radisson Blu Hotel Altstadt

If you’re looking for lavish, 5-star accommodation, the Radisson Blue Hotel Altstadt is the best place to stay in Salzburg! It’s located right in the Old Town, next to many popular Salzburg points of interest. Rooms are tastefully furnished and there is an on-site bar, restaurant, and room service.

Whether you’re spending 2 days in Salzburg, or more, you’re going to need to know how to get around the city. Public transportation is very efficient in Salzburg and transportation fares are reasonable.

Salzburg has a comprehensive bus route that covers all the major areas of the city and popular Salzburg landmarks!

If you’re planning on using public transportation as your primary means of traversing Salzburg, you’ll save money by purchasing a one-day unlimited travel ticket. This will give you access to the whole public transportation system in Salzburg in increments of 24-hours. Or, if you’re spending a week in Salzburg, a weekly pass is also available.

However, we should note, the city is very compact and is easy to navigate! It’s entirely possible you’ll only need to make use of public transportation once or twice during your time in Salzburg, if at all.

Cycling is another popular option for transportation, and Salzburg is a very cycle-friendly city. However, do keep in mind that Salzburg’s weather can be unpredictable at times. Make sure to check the forecast and take the month you’re traveling to Salzburg into consideration.

Once you decide how many days in Salzburg you’ll be spending, you can decide which method of transportation fits better with your plans!

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Mirabell Palace and Gardens | Getreidegasse | Mozart’s Birthplace | Residenzplatz | Hellbrunn Palace

Spend the first day of your Salzburg itinerary wandering the city’s Old Town! Discover the imposing beauty of the architecture, the stunning scenery of the landscape, and the historical highlights of Salzburg!

Day 1 / Stop 1 – Mirabell Palace and Gardens

• Why it’s awesome: Marabell Palace and gardens offer a romantic history and stunning scenery.
• Food nearby: Cafe Fingerlos J.M. Fingerlos is a cozy coffee shop offering classic Austrian fare, including sweets and great coffee!

Mirabell Palace is a historic building in Salzburg that dates back to 1606! The palace was constructed in baroque architecture and is a must-see Salzburg attraction.

Inside the palace, you’ll find the famous Marble Hall, which is regarded as one of the world’s finest wedding venues. Make sure to look out for the imposing sculptures that adorn the marble staircase leading to the hall!

This is one of the best places to visit in Salzburg for music lovers. The palace and its gardens were used as the filming location for several scenes from the 1965 movie “The Sound of Music.” Young Mozart also performed many concerts in the Marble Hall!

The palace is additionally known for its pristine gardens so do check out the impressive landscaping. The gardens are a horticultural masterpiece and will offer some of the best photo opportunities during your Salzburg itinerary!

Make sure to check out the Pegasus Fountain, encircled by statues representing the four elements: earth, water, air, and fire! Also worth checking out is the Dwarf Garden, where you’ll find sculptures modeled after real-life people from the 1700s. Note that the Dwart Gardens are closed during the winter months.

The palace and gardens are open daily and entrance is free!

Insider Tip: The palace was used to film the famous Do-Re-Mi sequences from “The Sound of Music”!

Day 1 / Stop 2 – Getreidegasse

• Why it’s awesome: Getreidegasse is a famous shopping street in Salzburg. It’s also the birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart!
• Food nearby: Cafe Mozart offers a full menu in a relaxed setting. The prices are very reasonable and the cafe is open long hours every day.

Getreidegasse , also referred to as Grain Lane, is a busy shopping street in the historic Altstadt of Salzburg. It’s situated in the heart of Salzburg’s Old Town and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1996.

This iconic street offers upmarket boutiques set amongst medieval streets. The narrow, tall row houses epitomize Salzburg’s medieval architecture. Admire the wrought-iron signs and portal windows from an Austrian era long-ago era. Many buildings also lead to picturesque passageways and courtyards offering a quiet reprieve from the busy crowds!

Besides stylish boutiques, you’ll also find a handful of stores selling Mozart souvenirs and “The Sound of Music” memorabilia. Cozy coffee shops and local restaurants are also abundant in the area!

The streets other popular claim to fame is the fact that it’s the birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart! The famous composer was born at Number 9, where he lived until the age of 17.

Whether you’re a serious shopper or not, this historic area of the city is a must-see stop on your Salzburg itinerary.

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Mozart’s Birthplace

• Why it’s awesome: This museum is the childhood home of one of the world’s most famous composers!
• Cost: USD $12.00
• Food nearby: Burgerista serves quality make-your-own style burgers. There are lots of toppings to choose from and veggie burgers are also available.

Mozart’s Birthplace , or the Mozart Museum, is located in the house formerly occupied by the Mozart Family. Following his birth in 1756, he lived in this location with his family until 1773.

Mozart’s former house became a museum in 1880 and contains numerous original artifacts from the composer’s lifespan, as well as from his widow and children. Discover the brilliance of Mozart as you view the exhibitions in the rooms of the house where he was born.

Start your visit on the museum’s third floor, which will provide you with an introduction to the Mozart family. Look inside the room where Anne Maria Mozart gave birth to her son and view the violin Mozart played as a child. Learn about Mozart’s sons, Karl Thomas, and Franz Xaver Wolfgang, both of whom also grew up to be famous, well-known composers!

On the second floor, you’ll see a sampling of costumes and models from Mozart’s greatest operas. You’ll also be able to listen to musical excerpts and see the original scores. The first floor focuses on Mozart’s day-to-day life.

Journey back in time as you view the original furniture, family memorabilia, and Mozart’s own musical instruments from the 18th century!

The Mozart Museum presents a fascinating insight into the life and talent of a musical genius, you don’t have to be a history buff or a music lover to appreciate this stop on your Salzburg trip itinerary!

Day 1 / Stop 4 – Residenzplatz

• Why it’s awesome: This large historic square contains several popular Salzburg attractions and is an important venue for cultural events.
• Food nearby: Gasthaus Zwettler’s is a fun place to eat out in Salzburg. Their menu showcases the local cuisine and includes a variety of vegetarian options!

Right in the heart of Old Town Salzburg, you’ll find Residenzplatz . This large, stately square is one of the city’s most popular places to visit! It’s home to two bishops’ palaces, both of which are excellent examples of Baroque and Renaissance architecture.

Designed in the late 16th century, Residenzplatz contains many iconic Salzburg tourist attractions! The centerpiece of the square is the Residenzbrunnen (Residence Fountain) fashioned with intricate horse, dolphin and Atlas sculptures. This grand fountain was also used as the backdrop in several scenes from the movie “The Sound of Music.”

The Salzburg Residenz lays on the west side of the square. This regal palace dates back to the 13th century and contains 180 rooms! If you have time, take a self-guided audio tour through the palace. Visit the opulent rooms and learn the rich history of the building.

See the Rittersaal Room where Mozart performed! Also of note when you tour the palace is the Residenz Gallery’s fine collection of European art.

On the east side, you’ll find several interesting museums to explore, including the Panorama Museum, which contains a circular painting of Salzburg in 1829. Guests can view the large 85-foot circumference painting through telescopes!

Mozartplatz is located just next to the square. The large courtyard is best known for its memorial statue of composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, it’s definitely worth a quick stop for a photo opportunity!

If you’re planning an itinerary for Salzburg during December, the Residenzplatz really comes alive with festive holiday cheer. Christmas markets are set up around the residence fountain and the stalls are filled with Christmas crafts and food vendors. Pick up some mulled wine and enjoy the cheerful atmosphere!

Day 1 / Stop 5 – Hellbrunn Palace

• Why it’s awesome: A lavish palace noted for its gardens, waterworks, and trick fountains!
• Cost: USD $14.00
• Food nearby: Park Cafe Schloss Hellbrunn is a friendly cafe located next to Hellbrunn Palace. They serve typical cafe fare (sandwiches, soups, and salads) with the addition of Austrian specializes, including dessert!

Hellbrunn Palace , or Schloss Hellbrunn, is an early Baroque palace. It was built from 1613 to 1619 as a place for celebrations and also as a summer residence for Markus Sittikus, who was both a prince and an archbishop.

While the whimsical interior of the palace is worth a visit, the palace is most famous for its trick fountains, located inside the 148-acre gardens. Sittikus designed the fountains to entertain and trick his guests.

The fountains spray at seemingly random moments.  If you’re traveling to Salzburg with kids, they’ll love running through the water shooting from the different statues and structures of the fountains.

Built in 1750, the Mechanical Theater is the newest feature of the fountains. It portrays a Baroque city and has approximately 200 water-operated characters. It’s definitely one of the most unique Salzburg attractions you’ll see when visiting.

A tour of Hellbrunn Palace includes visiting the water games area with a guided tour, a castle tour with an audio guide, and a visit to the Folklore Museum.

If you’re only planning a 2-day itinerary in Salzburg, visiting Hellbrunn Palace will most likely be the only time you’ll need to use public transportation. The palace is about 4 miles from Salzburg city center, hop on a bus or hail a taxi to save time.

Insider Tip: The palace gardens are free to enter and are open every day until dusk. If you visit, make sure to visit “The Sound of Music” pavilion where the famous ‘Sixteen Going on Seventeen’ scene was shot.

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Grünmarkt | Love Locks Bridge Salzburg | Salzburg Museum | Salzburg Cathedral | Petersfriedhof | Fortress Hohensalzburg

Your 2-day itinerary in Salzburg will see you discovering more of the local culture and history. You’ll get a chance to rub elbows with the locals and dive deeper into the city’s history. All of the sites we’ve included are located in Old Town and can easily be reached on foot. 

Let’s get started on your self-guided Salzburg walking tour!

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Grünmarkt

• Why it’s awesome: Grünmarkt is your typical European market, it provides a welcoming social atmosphere and plenty of delicious local food!
• Food nearby: You’ll find lots of food options in the market, but one of the more popular items is definitely the giant pretzels sold at the Salzburger Brezen stand!

Grünmarkt, or Green Market, is a farmers market in Salzburg. Since 1857 the market has served as a popular meeting place for young and old. Locals and tourists love to visit to pick up fresh goods and souvenirs.

You’ll find dried and fresh fruit, cured meats and cheeses, fresh-baked bread and pastries, as well as handicraft items such as baskets, leathers, clothing, and much more! Stroll the stalls and discover more of Salzburg’s local culture.

The market is open full-day hours during the week, half-day hours on Saturday, and is closed on Sundays. Saturday is the market’s busiest day, so if you’re spending a weekend in Salzburg, this is a great time to visit it experience the market in high drive.

Insider Tip: If you’re visiting one of Salzburg’s gorgeous parks, the Grünmarkt is the perfect place to pick up some picnic provisions beforehand!

Day 2 / Stop 2 – Love Locks Bridge Salzburg

• Why it’s awesome: The Love Locks Bridge in Salzburg celebrates love and is a great quick stop on your Salzburg itinerary for a photo opportunity! 
• Food nearby: Swing by Sternbräu for classic Austrian fare and a great beer selection.

While you’re in the area of Grünmarkt, swing by the Love Locks Bridge Salzburg. It’s only about a 5-minute walk from the markets and definitely worth a visit! You’ll be able to snap some great photos of the locks and the bridge with the beautiful Alps in the background.

If you’re spending time in Salzburg, Austria with your significant other, partake in the century old-tradition of inscribing both of your initials in a lock! You can then attach it to the bridge, and toss the key into the river.

Every time you travel back to Salzburg you’ll be able to revisit the bridge and see your ‘love lock’!

Day 2 / Stop 3 – Salzburg Museum

• Why it’s awesome: The Salzburg Museum is dedicated to the artistic and cultural history of the city and region of Salzburg!
• Cost: USD $10.00
• Food nearby: Gasthof Goldgasse offers delicious food prepared using locally sourced ingredients. They’re also highly rated for their friendly service and fun atmosphere!

The Salzburg Museum serves as an informative and educational museum of art and history and traces the development of Salzburg as a city. In 2009, the museum received the European Museum of the Year Award. It’s a celebrated institution that showcases everything from Roman excavations to royal artifacts.

Visit the museum and receive a comprehensive history of the city, from its historic past to its present-day culture. The museum contains both traveling and permanent displays. Permanent exhibitions include artifacts and displays on the subjects of art, science, architecture, literature, music, and more.

The music exhibition is particularly well-done and interesting. You’ll find an entire room of historic musical instruments. This section of the museum tells of the musical taste of past eras, historical events, and musical personalities.

The Salzburg Museum is partnered with the Panorama Museum. These museums are connected to each other by the underground Panorama Passage, which exposes a section of a Roman wall covered with murals and models of Salzburg at related points in its development.

If you’re planning a 3-day itinerary in Salzburg, this museum is another popular attraction in the city and definitely worth checking out! The Salzburg Museum is open every day except Monday.

Insider Tip: Free guided tours of the museum are offered every Thursday at 6:00 pm.

Day 2 / Stop 4 – Salzburg Cathedral

• Why it’s awesome: This grand cathedral is one of Salzburg’s most important historic sites and is one of Europe’s most magnificent churches.
• Food nearby: If you’re looking for a healthy place to eat in Salzburg, head to the Wokman Natural Kitchen. This veg-friendly restaurant provides tasty food and very reasonable prices.

The Salzburg Cathedral is famous for its long and dramatic history. The church dates back to 774 when it was consecrated as a cathedral.

The building has survived eight fires, however, the fire of 1598 ruined much of its original structure. The cathedral was completely rebuilt in Baroque style in the seventeen century to its present appearance!

One of the cathedral’s most prominent features is its stunning,  large dome! At 232 feet high, it’s the most impressive architectural design of the Salzburg Cathedral. It’s adorned with 16 frescos in two rows, each was painted by Donato Mascagni of Florence and portrays scenes from the Old Testament.

Mozart also has ties to this historic church. He was baptized inside the cathedral the day after his birth and he later became the cathedral’s organist, from 1779 to 1781.

The cathedral is a masterpiece of early Baroque art. It’s open every day and is free to visit, although donations are welcome!

Day 2 / Stop 5 – Petersfriedhof

• Why it’s awesome: Historic cemetery with baroque tombs as well as 12th-century catacombs.
• Food nearby: Stiftskeller St. Peter serves creative dishes in an elegant setting. It’s also reputed to be one of Europe’s oldest restaurants.

The Petersfriedhof, or St. Peter’s Cemetery, together with the burial site at Nonnberg Abbey, is the oldest cemetery in Salzburg. It’s located at the foot of Hohensalzburg Castle and the Festungsberg Mountains!

The cemetery’s origins date back to around 700 when the adjacent St. Peter’s Abbey was established by Saint Rupert of Salzburg. The abbey’s cemetery was first mentioned in an 1139 deed! The cemetery continued to be used until it was closed in 1878.

However, in 1930 the monks of St. Peter’s successfully urged for the admission of new burials. Today, it continues to be used as an active burial site. Many notable Austrians were buried here, including Maria Anna Mozart, the older sister of Wolfgang Mozart.

A highlight of St. Peter’s Cemetery is the catacombs, which are carved into the rock of the Festungsberg Mountainous. The mystical caves served as burial sites and today they can be visited year-round for a small admission fee.

Climb the stone-carved stairs and work your way back into the rock-cut rooms. You’ll be able to view altars, faded murals, and inscriptions. Located on this site are also two small chapels: The Maximuskapelle and the Gertraudenkapelle.

The cemetery is relatively small and tucked into the mountainside. Walk the stone-paved paths through the beautifully-maintained grounds and enjoy a quiet break from the city.

Petersfriendhof is located next to FestungsBahn Cable Railway. This is the cable car service that will take you to the Fortress Hohensalzburg, the next stop on our Salzburg itinerary!

Day 2 / Stop 6 – Fortress Hohensalzburg

• Why it’s awesome: Fortress Hohensalzburg is a mountaintop fortress that is one of the biggest medieval castles in Europe.
• Food nearby: Panorama Restaurant Zur Festung Hohensalzburg is the attached castle restaurant, stop in for quality food and spectacular views.

Just a short cable car ride from the city center of Salzburg, you’ll find the imposing Fortress Hohensalzburg. Hop on a cable car and cruise up the mountain to check out one of Europe’s most impressive fortresses.

The castle was built in 1077 by Archbishop Gebhard. The complex has served as a fort, a private residence, a prison and military barracks.

Today, you can visit the walled castle and browse the art exhibitions and museums found inside! As you tour the rooms, you’ll see where royalty once lived. Admire the intricate Gothic wood carvings adorning the walls of the Golden Hall, and marvel at the Golden Chamber, where you’ll find lavish furnishings befitting a king!

You can tour the fortress on your own, or pick up an audio guide for a more insightful view of the castle. The audio guide will explain various aspects of the rooms, torture chamber and battlements!

While you’re here, climb the Reckturm watchtower for unparalleled views of Salzburg and the surrounding area! There are also three museums to explore, including the Marionette Museum, which displays puppets from the Salzburg Marionette Theater.

Fortress Hohensalzburg is open every day. The cable railway runs every 10 minutes and will take you from the city to the castle in just minutes! Alternatively, you can walk up Festungsgasse lane until you reach the fortress courtyard.

The city views and well-preserved castle complex makes this one of Salzburg’s most popular attractions!

Insider Tip: The castle complex hosts a number of cultural events during the heavily touristed summer months. If you’re planning a Salzburg itinerary during summer, check the Festung Hohensalzburg website for a scheduled list of concerts and events!

YoHo International Youth Hostel Salzburg

• Free Laundry Facilities

Haus der Natur Salzburg | Freilichtmuseum Salzburg | Stiegl-Brauwelt | Gaisberg Mountain | Volksgarten Salzburg 

If you’re planning a 3-day itinerary in Salzburg, you’re going to need a few more activities to fill your time. Here are 5 more fun attractions we recommend checking out!

Haus der Natur Salzburg

• Large, interactive science and natural history museum
• Open every day from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
• Adult admission is USD $9.00 child admission (ages 4-15) is USD $7.00

The Haus der Natur Salzburg is a natural history and technical museum that offers a variety of displays and interactive exhibits. It mixes entertainment with education and is geared towards all ages.

The first floor of the Science center is dedicated to musical acoustics. From the wave nature of sound to the transfer of sound to the human ear, visitors will learn about everything relating to the theme of sound.

The museum also offers an aquarium where you can view exotic and indigenous aquatic creatures up close! There are 42 display tanks, the largest of which is 60,000 liters! See these underwater animals in their environment, designed to resemble those found in the wild.

Trying to decide what to do in Salzburg with kids? Take them to this museum! They’ll love the different hands-on programs and will be thoroughly entertained for hours.

Freilichtmuseum Salzburg

• A great way to experience the best of Salzburg’s history
• On-site restaurant and picnic area
• Guided tours are available

Covering a total of 124 acres, the Freilichtmuseum Salzburg is Salzburg’s largest museum. Discover 100 authentic and original historical buildings rebuilt on the museum grounds, each with a fascinating story to tell.

Uncover the history of farming, trades, crafts, and manufacturing as you explore old farmhouses and learn about the lifestyle of days long gone. Displays and exhibits fill the buildings and include everything from the history of the land, climate, and geology, to detailing what day-to-day life was like in the old days of Austria!.

To complete your experience, take a ride on the historic steam engine heritage railway. Travel through the scenic natural landscape and the houses of the museum grounds.

Stop by the museum shop to pick up unique souvenirs, including handmade items and chewy sweets! If you’re looking for more unique Salzburg things to do to fulfill your itinerary, add this museum to your list of places to visit!

Stiegl-Brauwelt

• Open every day from 10:00 am to 12:00 am
• Beer tasting and exhibits on brewing history
• Brewpub and restaurant serving Austrian cuisine

Stiegl-Brauwelt was founded in 1492 and is one of the oldest breweries in Austria! Today, you’ll find many fun attractions inside this famous brewery. It offers a multi-sensory experience where you can see, hear, smell, and taste this country’s beloved drink!

Visit the museum and learn the history of the country’s most famous beer! Browse displays and exhibits and trace the timeline of Stiegl’s delicious beverage.

Watch the museum’s film, “The Nature of Beer.” This interactive cinema impresses visitors with its 270-degree view and powerful floor projection that transports guests to the heart of the action. You’ll go behind the scenes of beer production, from the origin of their raw materials to beer bottling.

Guided tours of the brewery are also available. English tours are given once daily, at 3:00 pm, all other tours offered are in German. You can also listen to their free downloadable audio guide, available in 6 different languages!

If you’re hungry or craving a cold beer, stop by their pub and restaurant for a beer tasting and classic Austrian pub grub!

Gaisberg Mountain

• Located to the east of Salzburg
• The perfect place to enjoy some adrenaline-filled activities or a nice hike
• One of the most popular local mountains in Salzburg

If you’re a nature enthusiast planning a Salzburg itinerary, you don’t want to pass up a chance to explore Gaisberg Mountain. The mountain is accessible year-round and located just a few miles from the city center of Salzburg!

You’ll find over 12 miles of well-marked trails ranging in length and difficulty level. Climb the mountain and enjoy the breathtaking panoramic views of Salzburg. For adrenaline junkies, the Gaisberg is an inviting destination for mountain biking and paragliding during the summer months.

The mountain is easily accessible thanks to a bus link that runs from Mirabell Palace. Take the public bus No. 151 through the Gnigl part of Salzburg and straight up the Gaisberg. Experience a different side of Salzburg and explore the expanses of the Gaisberg Mountain!

Volksgarten Salzburg

• The park is open 24/7 and entrance is free!
• A quiet piece of nature in the middle of the beautiful city
• Easily accessible by public transportation

Volksgarten Salzburg is a spacious urban park with plenty of activities to offer. During the summer months, guests can take advantage of the two large outdoor swimming pools, which are the oldest and second oldest swimming pools in the city.

The spacious pool area also offers sunbathing areas, drinking fountains, lockers, a snack bar, table tennis, and parlor games. The pool area is open daily from May to mid-September, from 9:00 am – 7:00 pm and the entrance fee is USD $6.00.

There are also beach volleyball courts, soccer fields, gym equipment, and miles of running/walking paths!

Every summer the park sets up a summer cinema series where weekly movies are screened, and admission is free! Make sure to check the park’s event calendar for the full list of dates.

If you’re looking for things to do in Salzburg in winter, the area turns into a winter wonderland! There is an ice rink set up for hockey and ice skating!

Whether you’re spending one day in Salzburg or more, pay attention to your safety.

Overall, you should have nothing to worry about when you’re visiting Salzburg. The city is considered extremely safe for tourists to travel to and just like all the other areas of Austria, it has an extremely low crime rate.

However, the usual common-sense precautions still apply. Avoid walking alone late at night, never leave your drinks unattended, and always keep an eye on your personal belongings.

Pickpocketing does occur, although rarely, in the busy areas of the city and on public transport. Some locals have reported the areas north of the train station and near the Basilica of Maria Plain to be a bit dodgy at night.

If you’re traveling to Salzburg for 2 days via an overnight train and spending the night in a sleeping compartment, keep all of your valuables in the special container provided under your bed.

Overall, the risk of warning and dangers in Salzburg are low across the board. 

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Salzburg

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

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Day trips from Salzburg are a great way to explore even more of Austria’s gorgeous landscape! They also offer travelers a chance to learn more about the culture. These trips highlight the areas outside the city and are a great option if you’re spending 3 days in Salzburg, or more! 

From Salzburg: Eagle’s Nest Mountain Retreat Tour

Cross the German border into the Bavarian Alps and visit Hitler’s former conference center and mountain retreat – the Eagle’s Nest. The building was originally gifted to Adolf Hitler for his 50th birthday, and he held many meetings inside its walls. Explore the old conference room, dining area, and a small tea room with terraces.

This popular attraction offers great historical insight and information into the life of Hitler. The Eagles Nest retreat is located in the Kehlstein Mountains, and the grounds of the complex, as well as the drive up, provide guests with spectacular mountain views!

Tour to Hallstatt from Salzburg

Enjoy a day of exploring Hallstatt, a village on Lake Hallstatt’s western shore in Austria’s mountainous Salzkammergut region. Pass through the famous Salzkammergut en route to Hallstatt, known as the Pearl of the Salzkammergut. You’ll see charming villages and be provided with an introduction to Hallstatt and the Salzkammergut!

In Hallstatt, take in the sights and sounds as you explore the city! Enjoy a leisurely walk along the lake and marvel at the cozy houses clinging to the mountainside. Pass by the Muhlbach waterfall and visit the local museum. The Bone House is one of the city’s most popular attractions and will give you an interesting view of local family life!

Salzburg Sound of Music & Salt Mines Combined Tour Package

Salzburg is famous as being the location where the 1965 musical “ The Sound of Music ” was set, therefore, visiting the famous locations associated with the movie is the ultimate Salzburg experience! Travel to the beautiful areas in and around Salzburg, relive your favorite moments from the film, and take in the beauty of the natural landscape!

Explore another popular Salzburg attraction, the underworld caverns of the Salt Mines. Learn the history of how salt gave the area its economic wealth. Enjoy a day of history, adventure, and amazement as you relive the story of the Von Trapps, explore the lush landscape of Austria, and gain a better understanding of Salzburg’s past.

Grossglockner High Alpine Road Day Trip

Discover the Grossglockner High Alpine Road in the heart of one of Austria’s best national parks , the Hohe Tauern National Park. Here you can learn about the fascinating landscape, geology, and environment of the area!

Stop by Hochmais for a quick photo opportunity and admire the surrounding mountains. Continue on to the Haus Alpine Naturschau and enjoy a short tour of the indoor and outdoor exhibitions!

Lastly, hike towards Kaiser-Franz-Josefs-Höhe and the Wilhelm-Swarovski Observatory or on the Gamsgrubenweg trail, depending on your desired hiking difficulty level. Enjoy a perfect day of sightseeing and experiencing the iconic mountains of Austria!

Bavarian Mountains Tour from Salzburg

Enjoy a day of fun and adventure as you travel to the famous Bavarian Mountains, also called the Bavarian Alps. Spend a day in awe of the towering mountain peaks and pristine lakes! Enjoy a relaxing stroll along Königssee (King’s Lake) to Obersalzberg, where the second headquarters of the Third Reich used to be located.

Marvel at the legendary Watzmann, one of the mountain’s most prominent peaks. Lastly, visit the charming town of Berchtesgaden on your way back to Salzburg, where you’ll be able to sample some Bavarian specialties, like apple strudel!

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Find out what people want to know when planning their Salzburg itinerary.

How many days should you spend in Salzburg?

Staying 2-3 full days in Salzburg is plenty enough time to get to know the city and see the most important attractions. However, that won’t give you time to just chill, so if you can add more time to your stay, you’ll have a much more pleasant experience.

What should you not miss in Salzburg?

The Mirabell Palace and Gardens is probably one of the most popuar attractions in Salzburg – and for good reason – it’s a totally unique place with interesting history.

What is the best time to visit Salzburg?

Visiting during the summer months (June to August) opens the most attractions to visit, however, coming in winter means beautiful decorations, a charming vibe and amazing Christmas markets.

Is Salzburg worth visiting?

Salzburg is one of the prettiest cities in Austria and definitely worth a visit. With crisp, clean air, tidy streets, and snow-capped mountains, countless visitors are allured by Salzburg’s fairytale-like enchantment.

We hope you’ve enjoyed our itinerary for Salzburg and that you’re able to put it to use!

This charming Austrian city has so much to offer, from imposing palaces with spectacular scenery to cozy cafes and quaint architecture. 2 days in Salzburg is a traveler’s dream! All the main sights are close to the city center, and it’s entirely possible to spend all day walking around – without having to use any public transport!

It’s impossible not to fall in love with this magical city, and you’ll be entertained your whole trip, as Salzburg is stuffed to the brim with cultural sights and other delights! If you’re pushed for time, then why not visit Salzburg on a day trip from Vienna .

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• Travel Info

Tourist Information

If you have a question once you are here, or if you need a recommendation, we suggest talking to one of the employees of our tourist information offices. Centrally located, on Mozartplatz Square and at the main station, they are your primary source of helpful information while you are in Salzburg.

Tourist information offices in Salzburg

Welcome to Salzburg! 'Tourist Info – Salzburg Main Station' as well as 'Tourist Info – Mozartplatz' are a perfect resource for answers to all of your questions about holidays in Salzburg City. The friendly staff will help you to reserve hotel rooms, book guided tours, and so much more!

Tourist Info – Mozartplatz Square

Tourist Info – Salzburg Main Station

Service center and tourist information offices in outlying communities.

The Service Center and the towns and villages on the outskirts of Salzburg also have experienced, dedicated staff who will be glad to assist.

Tourist Info - Service Center

Tourist Information Offices in Outlying Communities

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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:

• Advent/Christmas/New Year's
• Congresses / Fairs / Workshops
• Culture / customs / markets / festivals
• Exhibitions
• Guided tours
• Religious events
• Theatre / shows / dancing / films

The Salzburg Card provides you with free or discounted admission to numerous sightseeing attractions, along with free use of public transportation.

Jun 12, 2022 • 8 min read

Visitors to Salzburg can explore the old town in a fiaker (horse-drawn coach) © jack-sooksan / Shutterstock

No visit to Austria is complete without a stop in beautiful Salzburg .

Located just across the border from Germany, the city is the birthplace of Mozart, the setting of The Sound of Music  and a hub of Austrian art and culture. Austria’s fourth-largest city is also one of its most walkable, with a quaint charm making it seem more like a friendly town than bustling city. To reach areas outside the historic core, a network of buses and trollybuses is easy to navigate, with cycling an always appealing mode of transport, too. And it’s hard to resist a ride in a traditional horse-drawn carriage.

However you wish to explore the city, here is everything you need to know about getting around in Salzburg.

Embrace the excellent bus and trolleybus network...

Punctual, clean and with their own dedicated lanes, buses and trolleybuses are a great way to get around Salzburg, particularly if you wish to venture out of the city center to sights like Schloss Hellbrunn or Salzburg Zoo , both located to the south of town.

Since buses and trolleybuses run until 1am on weekdays and 3am on weekends, these can be a good option for getting home after dinner or a few drinks without ponying up for a taxi. Bus stops dot the city, with fares starting from €2 (US$2). Bus travel is free with a Salzburg Card (more on that below). 

Lines 1 and 4 circle the old town of Altstadt, and tickets can be purchased from a tabac stand or ticket machine. These tickets must be validated once on the bus. You can also purchase tickets from the bus driver for slightly more. The main bus stop in the city is located just outside of the Hauptbahnhopf (train station). 

...or make like the locals and hop on a bicycle

With more than 180km (112 miles) of bike lanes throughout the city, Salzburg is fast becoming known for this eco-friendly mode of travel. Locking up your bike around town is easy, and the majority of routes take you through parks and off-road areas, making it relatively safe for novice bike riders to enjoy a cycle. 

The compact city is easy to get around on two wheels, and a bike ride makes for a lovely day out. One particularly popular route takes cyclists on a leisurely route along the banks of the river Salzach all the way to Schloss Hellbrunn, one of the city’s most popular sights. The river routes themselves make for a relatively easy going; those looking for something more adventurous can head to trails in the mountainous areas outside of the city, such as those at  Gaisberg .

Many hotels in the city rent bikes out by the day for a reasonable rate, and some even loan them for free to guests. Plenty of bike rental schemes are on offer, too – such as ListNRide , which allows travelers to rent bikes from locals for as little as €7 ($7.50) per day. With plenty of trails and parks to enjoy, a bike rental makes for one of the most appealing options for exploring Salzburg, especially in the summer months.

Taxis are reasonable and reliable (but you won’t really need them)

If you travel with lots of heavy luggage, taxis, which can be found around all tourist hotspots and shopping areas, might appeal. Hailing a ride in the city is not easy, as they are not permitted to stop in certain areas (such as in front of shops or bus stops); it’s easier to call the popular 8111 or use the Taxi 8111 - Salzburg Taxi app . 

While Salzburg does have Uber, there are often long wait times, and it’s far more popular to use local taxis and public transport since it is so reliable. Payments can be made via cash or card, with a starting fare of €3.50 ($3.70) for pre-booked taxis. At night, the starting fare increases to €4.50 ($4.80), but can be worth it if you have been out with friends and want to get home without multiple stops on the night bus.

Since the city center is mainly pedestrianized, taxis will have to drop you off somewhere in the ring around the old town. For example, if you are hoping to see  Mozart’s birthplace , you will likely have to be dropped off at Sigmundstor, Austria’s oldest road tunnel and now the eastern entrance to the pedestrianized part of the city, then walk the 10 minutes to your destination. 

A fiaker (horse-drawn Hackney coach) is a great way to see the old town

Hop in a fiaker  if you’re feeling extra fancy. These horse-drawn carriages are a popular (if slightly gimmicky) way for tourists to see the sights of the old town. Carriages can be rented from  Residenzplatz  in the old town starting at 10am; they cost €52 ($55) for a short tour of 25 minutes, including sights like Cathedral Square and Alter Markt. A longer tour of 50 minutes costs €104 (US$110), and takes in newer areas of the city as well as the historic quarters. Even though such rides are a splurge, they provide a neat way of taking in the charm of the city, especially for first-timers.

No reservations are required. The guides are experienced and knowledgeable, giving you your money’s worth in information while on the ride. Fiakers are available year-round, although we can’t really recommend taking an open-top carriage ride in the rain.

Save some money by getting a Salzburg card

For unlimited use of public transport, buy a Salzburg Card . Available for 24, 48 or 72 hours, the card gets the holder admission to a number of major sights and museums, such as Schloss Hellbrunn (which normally costs €13.50/$14.30) for adults) and DomQuartier Salzburg (normal admission €13/$13.80). For the price of entry to just a few museums, the Salzburg card gains access to a plethora of them, with adult prices beginning at €27 (US$28) in winter and €30 ($31) in summer.

Public transport is also included in the price of the ticket, too – including bus, rail and bus taxi, on multiple lines throughout the city. All in all, if you plan on visiting a few museums, catching the bus home from a night out and visiting somewhere like Mozart’s birthplace, the Salzburg Card could save you a great deal in just a couple of days.

Why walking is my favorite way to get around Salzburg

It feels like you can see absolutely everything in Salzburg on foot. While the weather always plays a key factor, the fresh Alpine air makes wandering the old town a pleasure in summer. Come winter, when locals gear up for outdoor Christmas markets and events to celebrate the season, the cold conditions can make exploring the city on foot brisk but still appealing.

The new town is connected to the old town by a variety of pedestrian bridges, making the city extremely accessible. The Aldstadt itself holds many of the city’s sights within walking distance of one another in a fully pedestrianized area. Within just a few easily walkable kilometers of one another are sights like Mozart’s birthplace on beautiful the pedestrian street Getreidgasse; St Peter’s Abbey, cemetery and catacombs ; and Hohensalzburg Fortress . Then there is the actual old town itself, a Unesco World Heritage sight, filled with stunning cathedrals, baroque details and buildings that seem to have been untouched for centuries. What better way to enjoy a city of architecture and museums than by foot?

Accessible transportation in Salzburg

Thanks the city’s compactness, Salzburg is one of the more accessible cities in Europe for those in wheelchairs and with mobility issues who wish to sightsee. The city is largely flat, with cobblestones laid evenly and no cars permitted within the old town area, making it fairly easy to get around. Many walking tours cater to those with mobility issues, and many popular tourist sights are wheelchair accessible with barrier-free entrances. The city also has many disabled-access hotels and restaurants, catering to anyone needing extra access and disabled toilet facilities. 

Most public transport in Salzburg accommodates wheelchair users with low-entry doors and ramps, meaning that with a little bit of foresight you can get easily get outside of the historic center. Downloading the Salzburgermobil app is the ideal way to plan, as it shows all nearby transport options, including those with extra access for those with mobility issues. Discounts are also available to those with extra needs. Keep in mind that since public transportation doesn’t go through the city center, those with limited mobility will have to find their own way through the old town. 

How to get to Salzburg from Vienna

From Vienna, hourly  ÖBB high-speed trains  connect the cities in two and a half hours, with fares as low as €20 ($21.50). The Austrian rail network is one of the most reliable in Europe.

Buses from Vienna to Salzburg run multiple times a day and take around two and a half hours. Tickets can be purchased online starting at €42 ($45) and most services have no stops, taking you directly from city to city.

While there are no direct plane connections to Vienna, Salzburg Airport (only 4km/2.5 miles outside of the city) offers flights to and from many European countries. Buses from the airport to the city center are cheap and frequent, stopping in the city center and surrounding areas, making it extremely easy for travelers to find their hotels.

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