Summary
Salzburg is one of the most celebrated cities in Austria and Europe, distinguished by its exceptionally well-preserved old town center, rich in stunning baroque architecture, which is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Tip – Acquire the Salzburg Card for complimentary access to primary attractions, along with discounts & free public transportation.
This picturesque Austrian city is renowned for being the birthplace of the classical composer Mozart; however, it offers much more in terms of historical landmarks and engaging attractions. The list below enumerates the premier activities to undertake in Salzburg, featuring a broad spectrum that spans Museums, Gardens, Churches, and Mountains.
Let us explore the premier activities in Salzburg:
1. Salzburg Fortress
Commonly referred to as Hohensalzburg Castle, this monumental fortress is strategically positioned atop Festungsberg Hill and has served as a significant power center for the rulers of Salzburg since the 1000s.
Since its establishment, the castle has undergone numerous transformations, additions, and expansions, including a Funicular Cable Car providing convenient access for visitors.
The striking white façade of the structure is visually appealing, offering multiple courtyards and walls from which to overlook the city of Salzburg.
Within the fortress, numerous rooms and wings await exploration, showcasing various artifacts and traditional decor. A large Aerophon (Organ) resides in the powder room, while the Golden Hall contains marble pillars, and the Chapel is adorned with stuccos and ornate busts.
This fortress undoubtedly ranks as the foremost attraction in Salzburg and represents a significant aspect of its historical heritage.
2. Salzburg Old Town
As one of the largest UNESCO World Heritage sites in terms of area, the Salzburg Old Town, or Altstadt, encompasses many of the city’s primary attractions and is adorned with historical buildings, beautifully designed squares, and charming narrow streets leading to hidden corners.
The architecture primarily reflects Medieval and Baroque styles, making the old town an excellent area for leisurely exploration.
The Old Town serves as an ideal starting point for your visit to Salzburg, where you can easily dedicate a day to wandering through the streets, admiring the sights, enjoying a coffee, or indulging in some shopping.
3. Mirabell Palace and Gardens
Salzburg boasts numerous historical buildings and gardens; however, the Mirabell Palace stands out as one of the finest in Austria.
Recognized as a cultural heritage monument, the Palace was constructed in 1606 primarily as a pleasure palace.
Featuring the magnificent Marble Hall, a venue for Palace Concerts, the Palace is also surrounded by splendid gardens that you can explore at your leisure.
The gardens offer fantastic views of Salzburg Cathedral and boast a symmetrical design emphasizing mythology, including the Pegasus Fountain and various other fountains, hedges, and themed gardens.
For those who appreciate well-maintained gardens and the outdoors, a visit to the palace is highly recommended.
4. Mozart’s Residence
The impact and renown of Mozart are palpable throughout Salzburg. Originally born in a modest dwelling, the family relocated to what is now known as “Mozarts Wohnhaus” in Makartplatz.
The building was reconstructed to mirror its original design closely after its destruction during World War II and currently functions as a museum.
This splendid museum features biographical information about family members, along with exhibitions detailing their daily life and living conditions.
For any admirer of Mozart, this museum is indispensable.
5. Hellbrunn Castle/Palace
Located within the southern Morgz district of Salzburg, Hellbrunn Castle or Palace is encompassed by a beautiful park and is in proximity to the Salzburg Zoo.
Established in the 1600s as a residential villa akin to Mirabell Palace, Hellbrunn showcases a lively yellow exterior and features a fully symmetrical façade.
The primary attraction of Hellbrunn Palace, however, resides in its enchanting gardens and playful trick fountains.
The gardens are truly captivating, showcasing various grottos, fountains, and water automats.
Visitors particularly enjoy the water features designed to surprise, such as seats with holes that unexpectedly spurt water on unsuspecting guests upon sitting – providing immense amusement and a delightful outdoor space during the summer months.
6. Salzburg Cathedral
A prime example of Baroque architecture, Salzburg Cathedral is situated in a secluded square adjacent to the Salzburg Residenz and St. Peter’s Abbey, forming a captivating historical district for visitors.
This Cathedral has undergone multiple demolitions and reconstructions since its inaugural establishment in 774, currently standing as a remarkable architectural feat with dual bell towers gracing its facade and the Marian Column located centrally in the “Domplatz.” Although its design is relatively modest, it remains impressively striking, and its interior is exquisite.
The interior maintains a simplistic elegance, featuring numerous columns, naves, a beautiful organ, and intricate frescoes adorning the dome.
7. Neugebäude
The Neugebäude, or New Residence, is a beautiful edifice in its own right, featuring halls adorned with stuccos from the 1600s and hosting the Salzburg Museum, with the primary attraction being the musical Glockenspiel.
This remarkable arrangement of 35 bells was crafted in the 18th Century in Antwerp and transported to Salzburg, where it took several years to tune and set up correctly (to the best of the clockmakers’ ability!). These stunning musical pieces perform at regulated intervals throughout the day, offering beautiful renditions of classical compositions such as the Menuett by Mozart and Tochter Zion by Handel.
Moreover, guided tours of the bells and their mechanisms are also accessible for visitors.
8. Getreidegasse
This acclaimed street stretches through the old town, functioning as a premier shopping destination.
The narrow thoroughfare features a multitude of closely packed buildings, showcasing attractive designs and quaint little windows.
Numerous passageways and courtyards branch off the main street, creating romantic areas to explore, enhanced by decorative elements like wrought iron guild signs that contribute to Getreidegasse’s charm and character.
The shops range from fine jewelry, fashion, antiques, traditional costumes, to various boutiques.
A delectable selection of eateries and cafes are also available, along with several historical landmarks and attractions.
9. Toy Museum
One might assume that a Toy Museum caters solely to children; however, the Salzburg Toy Museum believes otherwise.
Conveniently located near Mozartplatz and Mirabell Palace, this fantastical venue promises hours of enjoyment and intrigue for both children and adults.
The museum is divided into two sections – the “museum” segment showcases various historical exhibitions of toys and games, whereas the “hands-on” portion provides interactive rides and activities such as a marble run, a mini race circuit, and an imitation shop where children can learn about the appearance and functioning of an old shop.
With seasonal and specially themed activities regularly scheduled, you can always expect to encounter something unique and entertaining in this remarkable museum.
10. Mozartplatz Square
Situated in the heart of the Old Town, Mozartplatz is a tranquil square dominated by an ornate bronze statue of its namesake, unveiled in the presence of his sons in the 1800s.
Apart from the statue, numerous museums and attractions are located directly within the square, including the Salzburg Museum, the Traklhaus, and The Salzburg Christmas Museum.
Furthermore, adjacent to the square are two additional squares worth exploring – the Residenplaz and the Domplaz.
11. Hangar 7
This architecturally striking building is not a typical hangar, yet it houses numerous aeronautical artifacts.
Located adjacent to the main Salzburg Airport, the “Hangar” accommodates several bars, a café, a Michelin-starred restaurant, an outdoor lounge, as well as exhibits showcasing motorcycles and Formula 1 racing items, including a Cobra helicopter and an Alpha Jet aircraft.
Hangar 7 offers a fun and stimulating atmosphere, captivating visitors not only with its impressive hydrofoil dome architecture but also with its well-curated displays and stylish social areas.
12. Mozart’s Birthplace
As one of the most frequented museums globally, the birthplace of this legendary classical composer is an essential site to visit in Salzburg.
While the city features several museums, monuments, and venues dedicated to Mozart, his birthplace undoubtedly stands as the most significant.
The location is easily reachable as it lies within the Old Town, and a complete tour of the exhibitions typically takes around an hour.
The museum showcases an extensive assortment of Mozart-related objects, ranging from details of his childhood to the musical instruments he owned and used to compose his famous symphonies.
This provides a delightful opportunity to gain a comprehensive insight into the life of Salzburg’s most illustrious resident.
13. St. Peter’s Abbey
Not to be misunderstood with Salzburg Cathedral, the Abbey dedicated to St. Peter was originally established over ancient Christian remains in 696 by Saint Rupert and has existed in some form ever since.
This Benedictine Monastery holds the distinction of being the oldest in the German-speaking region and houses Austria’s oldest library.
Over time, the architectural style has evolved to reflect the prevalent fashions of various eras, showcasing a combination of Romanesque and Renaissance designs.
This richly decorated and ornate religious structure features Catacombs that are accessible to the public, a serene cemetery, and The Long Gallery which boasts several large paintings, along with an expansive library containing over 100,000 volumes (though the library is only available via highly selective guided tours). For those interested in historical edifices, St. Peter’s Abbey makes for an intriguing visit within the Old Town of Salzburg.
14. The Eagle’s Nest
This Third Reich-era mountain lodge was constructed as a scenic retreat near the town of Berchtesgaden in Germany. Although it is not situated within Salzburg itself, it is readily accessible as a day trip from Austria.
In contemporary times, the structure functions as a restaurant and tourist site, attracting numerous visitors not only for its architecture and historical importance but primarily for its breathtaking views of the Bavarian Alps.
To access the summit where the Eagle’s Nest is located, it typically requires a two-hour hike from the Obersalzberg area, rewarding adventurers with stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountainous countryside.
Gaining entry to the building/restaurants necessitates traversing a 124-meter underground tunnel and descending via a lift an additional 124 meters inside.
While not widely advertised, the Eagle’s Nest remains an intriguing site to visit and an excellent destination for hiking enthusiasts.
15. Gaisberg Mountain
Located in the eastern region of Salzburg, Gaisberg Mountain is an ideal venue for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adrenaline-pumping activities or hiking experiences.
A bus service operates from outside Mirabell Palace, ensuring that those without a car can still access the mountain.
If you are an outdoor aficionado, Gaisberg will cater to your desires – it offers over 20 km of well-marked trails varying in length and difficulty, as well as a diverse array of activities such as paragliding and mountain biking.
To discover an alternative aspect of Salzburg’s historical core, venture beyond the city and explore the expansive beauty of Gaisberg!
