Salzburg

Written by Celine Fournier, Elsa Holm, Finn Weber
17/09/2025
A breathtaking view of Salzburg cityscape with the illuminated Hohensalzburg Fortress at dusk.
Tanathip Rattanatum, Pexels

Salzburg is a captivating Austrian city renowned for its exquisite Baroque architecture and profound historical significance, particularly as the birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. The city's UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town, with its charming narrow streets and grand squares, invites exploration, offering a perfect balance of cultural immersion and scenic beauty against a backdrop of the Austrian Alps. It serves as an ideal destination for those seeking a relaxing yet culturally rich experience, often combined with visits to nearby European cities.

The Old Town district provides ample opportunities for socialising, with a variety of traditional cafes, restaurants, beer pubs, and gardens where visitors can gather and enjoy the local atmosphere. While Salzburg offers bars and clubs, it is generally not considered a destination for intense nightlife, instead providing a more relaxed setting for evening enjoyment. The city's markets are also popular spots for both locals and tourists to connect and experience daily life.

Top 6 Things to do in Salzburg

Visitors can explore historical landmarks, enjoy panoramic cityscapes, and follow the paths of famous musical figures.

1. Explore Hohensalzburg Fortress

Perched high above the city, Hohensalzburg Fortress stands as a magnificent 11th-century medieval castle, considered one of Europe's largest and best-preserved. A visit allows one to wander its ramparts, discover the opulent state rooms, and explore various museums, all while enjoying breathtaking panoramic views of Salzburg's Old Town and the surrounding Alps. It is a defining feature of the city's skyline.

Cost: A basic ticket, which includes the funicular ride and admission to two museums, costs approximately €15 for adults (2025 prices). An all-inclusive ticket covering three museums is around €18. Opting for a 'Sperrbogen' ticket, which involves walking up the fortress, costs about €11.20 for the basic or €13.60 for the all-inclusive. The Salzburg Card grants free admission and a one-time funicular ride.

Transport: The most convenient way to reach the fortress is by the FestungsBahn funicular, with its base station located in the city centre. Alternatively, a steep but rewarding 15-minute walk from Toscaninihof leads directly to the fortress. Public buses from Salzburg Hauptbahnhof (main train station) can reach the city centre (e.g., Salzburg Rathaus) in approximately 7-10 minutes, costing €1-2 for a single journey, from where it is a short walk to the funicular.

2. Wander through Mirabell Palace and Gardens

The Mirabell Palace and its exquisite Baroque gardens are a highlight, famed for their symmetrical flowerbeds, mythological sculptures, and the Pegasus Fountain. These gardens gained international recognition as a filming location for 'The Sound of Music.' From here, one can capture picturesque views of Hohensalzburg Fortress. The Marble Hall within the palace also hosts intimate classical music concerts, offering a unique cultural experience.

Cost: Entry to the Mirabell Gardens is generally free of charge. Special events or concerts held in the Marble Hall may have an associated entrance fee.

Transport: The palace and gardens are centrally located on the right bank of the Salzach River, easily accessible on foot from Salzburg's Old Town, typically within a 15-minute walk from the main train station.

3. Visit Mozart's Birthplace (Mozarts Geburtshaus)

Located in the bustling Getreidegasse, this is the house where Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was born on January 27, 1756. Now a museum, it offers a fascinating glimpse into the early life of the musical genius, displaying original instruments, historical documents, and portraits. Exploring this site provides a deep connection to Salzburg's most famous son.

Cost: Admission for adults is €15.00, for children (6-14 years) €4.50, and free for children under 6 (2025 prices). The Salzburg Card includes free entry.

Transport: Situated in the pedestrian-friendly Getreidegasse, it is best explored on foot within the Old Town. The nearest public bus stop, Makartplatz, is a short walk away. Buses from Salzburg Hauptbahnhof to the Old Town (e.g., F. -Hanusch-Platz B or Rathaus) typically take 6-15 minutes and cost €1-2 for a single ticket.

4. Discover Salzburg Cathedral and DomQuartier

The impressive 17th-century Baroque Salzburg Cathedral is dedicated to Saints Rupert and Virgilius, notable for its grand architecture and as the location of Mozart's baptismal font. Adjacent to the Cathedral, the DomQuartier offers a unique tour through the former residence of the Prince-Archbishops, the Residence Gallery, and the Cathedral, providing a comprehensive insight into Salzburg's ecclesiastical and secular history and art.

Cost: Entry to the DomQuartier, which encompasses the Cathedral, Residence, and Gallery, costs approximately €15.00 for adults and €5.00 for children (2025 prices).

Transport: Both the Cathedral and DomQuartier are centrally located in the Old Town, making them easily accessible by foot. Direct buses from Salzburg Hauptbahnhof to stops like Salzburg Mozartsteg/Rudolfskai A take about 10-13 minutes and cost €1-2 for a single journey.

5. Take a Sound of Music Tour

For fans of the beloved film, a Sound of Music tour is a memorable way to experience Salzburg. Many iconic filming locations, such as Mirabell Gardens, St. Peter's Abbey, Residenzplatz, and Nonnberg Abbey, can be visited on a self-guided walking tour through the Old Town. Organized bus tours expand the experience, venturing to picturesque sites outside the city, including Hellbrunn Palace and the charming town of Mondsee.

Cost: A self-guided walking tour is free. Organized bus tours range from approximately €65-€110 for a 4-hour experience, with private or extended tours costing more. Entrance to Hellbrunn Palace, often part of organized tours, is around €15.00 for adults (2025 prices).

Transport: Many city-centre locations are walkable. For sites further afield, a self-guided approach can utilize local public buses, or one can join an organized bus tour that provides transportation.

6. Enjoy the Views from Mönchsberg

Ascending Mönchsberg mountain offers some of the most spectacular panoramic views of Salzburg's Old Town, the commanding Hohensalzburg Fortress, and the expansive surrounding landscape. At the summit, visitors will also find the Museum of Modern Art, complementing the natural beauty with contemporary culture. It is an ideal spot for photography and enjoying a peaceful moment above the city's bustle.

Cost: A one-way ride on the Mönchsberg Lift costs approximately €2.50. The Salzburg Card includes one free ride up and down. Children and young people up to 19 years old may receive free lift rides and museum admission during special anniversary celebrations.

Transport: The Mönchsberg Lift's valley station is conveniently located at Gstättengasse 13 in the Old Town, making it easily accessible on foot.

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