Baroque city in the Austrian Alps, home to Hohensalzburg Fortress and the world's largest classical music festival. Rich in culture and surrounded by mountains.
Salzburg, the fourth-largest city in Austria, is known for its Baroque architecture and as the birthplace of Mozart. Nestled along the Salzach River at the northern edge of the Alps, this city of 150,000 is home to the Hohensalzburg Fortress, Mozart's birthplace, and the Mirabell Palace and Gardens. Salzburg's historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and its annual classical music festival attract visitors from around the world.
Exploring Salzburg's Old Town
Salzburg's historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, contains well-preserved Baroque architecture. You can wander through narrow medieval lanes like the Getreidegasse, lined with wrought-iron shop signs and Mozart's birthplace. In the Residenzplatz square, you'll see a large baroque fountain. Nearby, the Salzburg Cathedral with its green domes stands out in the city's skyline.
Hohensalzburg Fortress
Hohensalzburg Fortress sits atop Festungsberg hill and has been a part of Salzburg's landscape for over 900 years. It's one of the largest fully preserved medieval castles in Europe. You can walk up to the fortress or take the funicular railway. Inside, you'll find museums with medieval artifacts, princely apartments, and views of Salzburg and the surrounding Alps.
Mozart's Birthplace and Residence
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was born in Salzburg in 1756. You can visit his birthplace at Getreidegasse 9, now a museum with family portraits, Mozart's childhood violin, and other personal items. Across the river, Mozart's Residence where he lived from 1773-1781 is open to the public. The museum provides information about Mozart's life and musical development in Salzburg.
Mirabell Palace and Gardens
On the right bank of the Salzach River, you'll find the Mirabell Palace and its geometric gardens. Built in 1606, the palace now houses government offices and hosts weddings. You can visit the gardens for free and see fountains, statues, and flowerbeds. The Sound of Music fans might recognize the gardens as a filming location for the "Do-Re-Mi" scene.
Salzburg Festival
For six weeks each summer, Salzburg hosts a major classical music and drama festival. The Salzburg Festival presents operas, concerts, and plays in venues throughout the city. Tickets are often in high demand, so book well in advance if you plan to attend. During the festival, you can also enjoy free outdoor performances throughout the city.
Local Food and Drink
Salzburg offers more than just Mozart balls (chocolate-covered marzipan candies). Try Salzburger Nockerl, a sweet soufflé that resembles the city's snow-capped mountains. You can visit Austria's largest private brewery, Stiegl, which has operated since 1492. For a traditional meal, eat at St. Peter Stiftskulinarium, which claims to be Europe's oldest restaurant, dating back to 803 CE.
Day Trips from Salzburg
From Salzburg, you can easily explore the surrounding region. Take a trip to the lakeside village of Hallstatt, visit the Eisriesenwelt ice caves (the largest accessible ice caves in the world), or tour the salt mines in nearby Hallein that gave Salzburg its name and wealth. In winter, you can reach several ski resorts within a short drive from the city.
Getting Around Salzburg
You can explore much of Salzburg on foot due to its compact size. For longer distances, use the city's bus system. Buses numbered 1-8 are trolleybuses, while 20-27 are regular diesel buses. If you plan to use public transport and visit multiple attractions, consider buying a Salzburg Card, which includes free public transport and admission to many sights.
