10 Best Things to do in Salzburg, Austria

Those traveling to Austria may be surprised at just how much there is to see in Salzburg. With its Baroque architecture, alpine lakes, and mountainous green pastures, it is just as depicted in The Sound of Music! Wondering how to spend your time? We have a list of our top 10 things to do in Salzburg to get you excited about your trip.

10 Things to Do in Salzburg Austria

With its historic architecture, enchanting old city alleys, and stunning views, Salzburg promises a unique European experience.

These are the 10 things you should make sure you see while you are here:

1. Hohensalzburg Fortress

Hohensalzburg Fortress is one of the largest and best-preserved medieval castles in Europe and will give you an idea of what life was like in the Salzburg court.

While you can walk all the way from the street below to the top where the fortress is located, why not take the funicular? 

At the top, you will get an impressive view of the Old Town below.

2. Stiftsbaeckerei St. Peter

This is the oldest bakery in Austria and well worth the visit to get a taste of this amazing bread!

The funicular you took up to the top to see Hohensalzburg Fortress is powered by water from the wheel beneath.

That wheel also served as a way to grind the flour for the baker whose shop is alongside the wheel. 

3. St. Peter’s Monastery, Cemetery & Catacombs

One of the most beautiful cemeteries in the area, you will find both old and new graves side by side in this hilly area. What is most notable are the catacombs.

This cemetery was the inspiration for a scene from The Sound of Music.

You will remember this as where the Von Trapp family hid while being pursued by the National Socialists.

Catacombs access is FREE with Salzburg Card

4. Chapter Square

Once the site of the Cathedral Abbey, is now a place of artistic interpretation.

You will find an oversized chess game, people selling trinkets, and “Sphaera,” a work of art by Stephan Balkenhol.

5. Salzburg Cathedral

One of the most important things to do in Salzburg Old City is to tour the cathedral. 

When you walk into this beautiful 17th-century cathedral, you notice the elaborate Baroque style immediately.

The light bounces off the white marbled walls and gives light to the hand-painted murals and altar. 

You will also find an organ on which Mozart played and the baptismal font in which he was baptized.

Salzburg Cathedral Fee

• Admission to Salzburg Cathedral is free, but a donation is required

6. Residence Square

Residence Square is probably the largest and most beautiful square in Salzburg.  It features an 18th-century Glockenspiel and the famous Residence Fountain.

This beautiful Baroque fountain is considered to be one of the most significant Baroque monuments in Europe.

It features four horses springing from a rock held up by giants. The upper basin holds a Triton, a jet of water shooting into the air from his conch-shell trumpet.

You may remember it from The Sound of Music when Maria is on her way to the Von Trapps.

7. Mozart’s Birthplace

Mozart’s Birthplace is one of the most visited museums in Austria. 

You can take a walk inside a middle-class apartment reconstructed with furniture from the 18th century, along with personal items like Mozart’s own violin and clavichord.

Along the way, guests learn details of Mozart’s life from the time he grew up when he began to play music, who were his friends and patrons, his relationship with his family, his passion for opera, and much more.

Mozart’s Birthplace Tickets

• FREE with Salzburg Card

 8. Sigmund-Haffner-Gasse

On one of Salzburg’s oldest streets, you will find quaint shops, restaurants, and galleries.

Spend some time walking the cobblestone streets and checking out the storefronts and charm of this magical old town.

9. Mirabell Gardens

Mirabell Gardens dates back to 1690 when it was designed in a distinguished geometric style, which is typical for the Baroque period.

In the garden, you will find beautiful fountains, sculptures, and, of course, flowers.

Mirabell Gardens is one of the most important shooting locations in “The Sound of Music.”

In the film, Maria and the children dance around the Pegasus Fountain singing the song “Do Re Mi.”

10. Salzburg Christmas Market

If you plan to visit Salzburg from November 20,- January 1, you will be able to experience one of the most historic Christmas Markets in Europe.

Salzburg is an amazing place to experience the holiday season with hundreds of local merchants selling local goods and holiday treats.

Visitors can also enjoy the following during the Advent season:

• “Sing-Along” in a choir open to singers from the general public – every Tuesday from 6 – 8 p.m.
• Traditional wind music – performed high above the square every Wednesday at 6 p.m. and every Thursday and Saturday at 6:30 p.m.
• Visit of the Salzburg “Christ Child” with his angels – every Sunday, 4 p.m.
• Children’s reading with the “Christ Child” – every Wednesday at 4 p.m.

Those considering visiting Salzburg will not be disappointed.

One of the most beautiful parts of Bavaria, this city has the best of both worlds, with its new town and old town.

But if you want to visit the Alps and Lake regions, consider taking a Sound of Music tour showing you parts of Salzburg you might otherwise miss.

Where to Eat in Salzburg

• Authentic Austrian Cuisine: S’Kloane Brauhaus. It is a bit of a walk from Mirabell Gardens but worth it for the local beer and authentic food. Schallmooser Hauptstrasse 27, Salzburg 5020
• American Hamburgers: Burgerista. Best burgers ever. The fries are also delicious. Centrally located. Griesgasse 15, Salzburg 5020
• Italian: Organic Pizza. If you want a pizza that is made fresh and delicious, check this place out. Located a few blocks off Mirabell. Franz-Josef-Str. 24A, Salzburg 5020

Making the Trip from Munich to Salzburg

Salzburg is only 1.5 hours from Munich by car & by train which makes it a great day trip destination!

You can also take a tour that can take you from Munich to other areas in Austria, including Salzburg.

The Salzburg Card Will Save You Money!

One thing we suggest you purchase before taking your trip to Salzburg, Austria is the Salzburg Card.

This pass gets you into over 30 attractions for free and free public transportation! In addition, you get some discounts on other things, a guidebook and a map of the area.

You can choose as many days as you wish.  It pays for itself and allows you to bypass a lot of ticket lines!

Want to read this article later? Pin it so you don’t forget it!

Sharing is caring!