Salsburg
Salzburg, the birthplace of Mozart, is a stunning Austrian city nestled at the foot of the Alps. Its historic Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is famous for its charming baroque architecture, picturesque streets, and the impressive Hohensalzburg Fortress, which offers breathtaking views of the city.
Visitors can explore Mozart’s birthplace and museum, immersing themselves in the legacy of the world-renowned composer. Fans of The Sound of Music will recognize many filming locations, such as Mirabell Palace and its beautiful gardens.
For adventure seekers, the nearby Alps provide excellent hiking and skiing opportunities. The city’s cuisine is also a delight, featuring local specialties like Salzburger Nockerl, a delicious dessert, and hearty Austrian dishes.
Things To Do
If you want to see one of the true gems of Austria, you should visit Salzburg. What I enjoyed the most was relaxing in a cozy café with a cup of coffee while taking in the breathtaking views of the historic old town. Salzburg offered me more than I had ever imagined. The charming streets, stunning Baroque architecture, and the incredible hike up to the Hohensalzburg Fortress were unforgettable. The view from the top was simply mesmerizing. I watched horse-drawn carriages passing through the streets, and the sunset over the Alps was one of the most beautiful I have ever seen on Earth.
Need To Know
Salzburg Travel Guide
Situated: In Austria, near the German border
Accommodation: It is important to book in advance, especially during the festival season.
Activities:
- Explore the historic Old Town (Altstadt)
- Visit Hohensalzburg Fortress
- Discover Mozart’s birthplace and museum
- Take a day trip to the Salzkammergut Lake District
- Enjoy a classical music concert
Best season: From May to September and December (Christmas markets)
Cheap season: From January to March
Recommended Time to Visit Salzburg (Austria)
- 1-2 days: Explore the Old Town, visit Hohensalzburg Fortress, and enjoy Mozart’s Birthplace.
- 3-4 days: Discover the Mirabell Gardens, visit Hellbrunn Palace, and take a Sound of Music tour.
- 5+ days: Take day trips to Eagle’s Nest, Hallstatt, or explore the Salzkammergut Lake District.
Salzburg 3-Day Itinerary (Highlights Trip)
Day 1: Explore Old Town & Hohensalzburg Fortress
- Morning:
- Start at the Getreidegasse, Salzburg’s famous shopping street, lined with beautiful medieval buildings.
- Visit Mozart’s Birthplace, a museum dedicated to the world-renowned composer, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart.
- Stop by St. Peter’s Abbey and the St. Peter’s Cemetery, where Mozart’s sister is buried.
- Afternoon:
- Have lunch at St. Peter Stifts Kulinarium, Austria’s oldest restaurant, serving traditional Austrian fare.
- Take the funicular up to Hohensalzburg Fortress, one of the largest fully preserved castles in Europe, and enjoy panoramic views of the city.
- Evening:
- Dine at Ikarus, a restaurant with Michelin-starred cuisine offering innovative dishes.
- Walk along the Salzach River and enjoy the evening views of the illuminated Old Town.
Day 2: Mirabell Gardens & Sound of Music Tour
- Morning:
- Visit the Mirabell Palace and Gardens, a beautiful baroque garden with amazing views of the Hohensalzburg Fortress.
- Explore Residenzplatz and the Salzburg Cathedral, a baroque masterpiece.
- Afternoon:
- Have lunch at Café Mozart, a classic coffeehouse with historic charm.
- Take a Sound of Music tour, visiting iconic filming locations such as Nonnberg Abbey and The Gazebo at Hellbrunn Palace.
- Evening:
- Dinner at Gasthof Goldgasse, a cozy restaurant offering regional specialties like Salzburger Nockerl (a delicious dessert).
- Enjoy an evening performance at the Salzburg Marionette Theatre, where you can watch a unique puppet show.
Day 3: Hellbrunn Palace & Lake Wolfgang
Option 1: Hellbrunn Palace
- Morning:
- Visit Hellbrunn Palace and its famous trick fountains, designed to surprise and delight visitors.
- Take a stroll through the expansive Hellbrunn Park, filled with beautiful sculptures and serene walking paths.
- Afternoon:
- Have lunch at the Palace Café, located near the palace.
- Take a guided tour of the Hellbrunn Palace and its Grotten (caves) and hidden fountains.
- Evening:
- Head back to Salzburg and dine at Die Weisse, a traditional Austrian brewery with hearty local meals.
Option 2: Lake Wolfgang Day Trip
- Morning:
- Take a 30-minute drive or boat ride to Lake Wolfgang.
- Visit St. Wolfgang village, known for its charming buildings and the Church of St. Wolfgang.
- Afternoon:
- Have lunch at Restaurant Furian overlooking the lake.
- Take a boat tour of the lake or relax on the lakeside.
- Evening:
- Return to Salzburg for a farewell dinner at Restaurant Salzburger Stier, offering modern Austrian cuisine.
Salzburg 5-Day Itinerary (More In-Depth)
- Day 4: Explore Eagle’s Nest in Berchtesgaden, a former Nazi retreat with breathtaking views of the Alps.
- Day 5: Take a trip to Hallstatt, a picturesque village by a lake, and visit the Hallstatt Bone House or Skywalk Hallstatt.