Top 10 Things to Do in Salzburg

Itching to get to Salzburg? What are you waiting for?! From gorgeous architecture, to breathtaking landscape, and culture bleeding out of its pores, Salzburg is a spot you won’t want to miss out on!

When thinking of Salzburg, these things tend to come to mind: history, culture, music (hello, Mozart!), landscape, and The Sound of Music. Being the birthplace of Mozart, and the filming location of ‘The Sound of Music’, Salzburg has secured its place in the world as an alluring destination for lots of curious travellers. And whether you choose to visit in the middle of summer, or the dead of winter, there’s always things to see and do here.

But we’ve gotta say, those who manage to visit just before Christmas, are in for a treat: Salzburg transforms into a truly magical winter wonderland, filled with Christmas markets. The vibe can turn even the biggest Grinch into a Christmas fanatic. While it might be the glühwein, we really think it’s just the soul of the place.

No matter when you arrive, you’re in for a treat. Ready to start planning your adventure in this gorgeous destination? Read on to discover the top things to do in Salzburg!

Salzburg, Austria

1. Salzburg Old Town

The flair of Salzburg’s Old Town will draw you in immediately. Filled with many historical buildings, churches, castles, and gardens, you won’t get bored aimlessly walking around. Strongly influenced by the Baroque era, and filled with lots of churches, Salzburg is also known as the ‘German-speaking Rome’. While you might not find gladiators or a Colosseum here, you’ll get the reference after exploring the area for a bit.

And we aren’t joking when we say there’s tons of history here. The first inhabitants (the Romans) date back about 2500 years. But what was their reason for coming to the area? Salt! You may have already guessed that if you know any German (Salz = Salt). At the time, this product was very valuable and possession typically meant lots of geopolitical power. This was necessary for the Romans in order to expand and strengthen their empire. And while Salzburg might not be nearly as large as Rome or other Roman cities, its Old Town is one certainly worth visiting.

2. Hohensalzburg Fortress

Built in 1077, and located smack dab in the middle of the Old Town, you’ll find Hohensalzburg Fortress. Nowadays, it’s the largest and preserved fortress in central Europe, which makes it certainly worth checking out. Easily considered one of the most recognisable landmarks in Salzburg, you should budget a few hours to check it out. But accessing the fortress isn’t for the faint of heart. But is the effort worth it? Absolutely!

Starting from Salzburg’s Old Town, you can walk up Festungsgasse and take in the views as you go. From one side, you can see the city, and from the other, you can see the mountains. Sounds like a dream, right? And if you’re a fan of ‘The Sound of Music’, you might even notice a few spots where scenes were filmed! While you can certainly book a tour to see the interior of the fortress, if you’re short on time, we think exploring the exterior should be enough!

Hohensalzburg Fortress

3. Salzburg’s Cathedral

Located in Salzburg’s Old Town, this cathedral is the most monumental early-baroque building this side of the alps. Originally built in 774, it was again rebuilt in 1181 after a fire. But the Baroque style exterior you see today was completed in the 17th century. And if you spend any amount of time in Europe, touring through a church can seem a bit monotonous.

But like most European landmarks, there are a few special things to note about this cathedral. Since Salzburg is the birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, this cathedral is also where his baptism took place. Also, during World War II in 1944, a bomb damaged the church’s dome. And while repairs were slowly made, the project wasn’t completed until 1959. Interesting stuff, huh?! Like most churches in Europe, entrance is free.

4. Getreidegasse

Ready to shop? This is where you’ll want to be! Located smack dab in the middle of Salzburg’s Old Town, it’s full of Instagram worthy moments. If it’s not the housing facades that have your heart swooning, it will be the wrought iron guild signs or the romantic passageways leading to delightful bars, shops, and restaurants. Easily one of the most popular tourist attractions in Salzburg, you really can’t miss it. And if you happen to be here at around the holidays, get ready to stumble upon one Christmas scene after another.

Getreidegasse

5. St. Peter’s Abbey and Cemetery

Feeling a bit spooky? Or maybe you just want to check off as many ‘The Sound of Music’ sites as possible. Either way, your next stop should be St. Peter’s Abbey and Cemetery. Founded in 700 (we weren’t kidding with Salzburg’s history), you’ll find it en route up the long and winding Festungsgasse, leading to Hohensalzburg Fortress. Unique to the church, it’s home to an impressive library and archives with some notable pieces important to Salzburg, especially in the realm of music. Holographs you can find here include works by Mozart, Eberlin, and Haydn, just to name a few. And if you want to spook yourself a bit, we recommend checking out the catacombs.

6. Mozart’s Birthplace

If you plan on checking out our above mentioned landmark, then you’ll also see Mozart’s birthplace! Sitting in a bright yellow house (number 9), you can’t miss this spot. If you aren’t really a fan of the music, or museums for that matter, paying to enter may be a bit drastic for your plans, but it’s worth seeing the exterior at least. For those who want to get a better look into his personal life, you’ll certainly get that while here. Visitors can view his first instruments, and the entirety of the family home (located on the 3rd floor). In addition to his personal possessions, visitors can also gain insight to his life in Vienna by checking out his personal records. The family lived here only until 1773, when they relocated to Marktplatz.

Mozart’s Birthplace

7. Hellbrunn – Palace and Trick Fountains

Built between 1613-1619, Hellbrunn Palace is yet another example of stunning Baroque architecture Salzburg is so well known for. While its open year round, it’s definitely a spot worth checking out in summer, especially if you want to cool off. In the gardens, you might notice some stone seats around a stone table. If you sit there long enough, you might find yourself soaked by a water conduit! And believe us when we say, Salzburg can get HOT in the summer. So while it might be a shock at first, we promise the surprise will be a welcome one.

8. Mirabell Palace and Gardens

Mirabell Palace and Gardens were built in 1606, and are – without a doubt – one of the most popular attractions in Salzburg. And you’re likely familiar with this spot because of ‘The Sound of Music’. Especially in summer, this is a place you definitely want to check out. Filled with beautiful displays of flowers and statues, it’s as beautiful as it sounds. Notable points of interest include the “angel staircase” that leads to Europe’s “most beautiful wedding hall”. You’ll certainly love it here!

Mirabell Palace & Gardens

9. Augustiner Brewery and the Bräustübl Tavern

Last, but certainly not least. we have the Augustiner Brewery. Since 1621, the art of brewing and a warm atmosphere has been celebrated here. Under a huge canopy of trees, patrons are invited to pull up a chair and enjoy and enjoy a stein of their delicious beer. And you’ll definitely be able to tell the locals from the tourists apart. Often times, locals (or Austrians) will rock up in their traditional lederhosen and dirndl, ready for an evening of beers, served by the litre. You can grab food at a variety of outlets both outside, and indoors. While it might seem like a bit of a walk from the city centre, we promise you won’t want to miss this place!

10. Restaurant Stiegl-Keller

Now, it’s time to get into the drinking culture of Austria. And they take it just as seriously as the Germans, so make sure you’re well-fed before starting an evening of debauchery. Remember when we said climbing the Festungsgasse was rather daunting? Well, this spot is your reward for afterwards! In summer, we recommend grabbing a table outdoors and taking in the summer breeze and the views. You’ll be able to snap great shots of the Salzburg Cathedral, all while enjoying some cold drinks. Sounds like a dream, right?!

Stiegl Brewery

Where to Stay in Salzburg

If you’re visiting Salzburg book your bed at the much loved and fun Yoho International Youth Hostel. Located in the centre of town, they offer a late night bar and modern spacious rooms! Their friendly and knowledgable staff can also help you book local activities with trusted providers, ensuring you’ll have the best experience in the city of Mozart!