Salzburg Bucket List: Amazing 25 Things to Do in Salzburg Austria

Considering a trip to Salzburg in Austria and curious about the city’s attractions? This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the best things to do in Salzburg, paramount landmarks, and engaging activities in Salzburg that deserve your attention the most. Along with each location, I provide practical tips and valuable information based on our experiences to make your visit seamless. Read on!

Famously known as the picturesque setting of the classic film, ‘The Sound of Music’, the romantic city of Salzburg is deeply immersed in history and vibrant culture. The birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Salzburg continues to uphold its strong musical tradition with a variety of performances, concerts, and annual festivals.

However, this delightful city’s appeal extends beyond its musical legacy. From its picturesque location nestled in the foothills of the Alps to its stunning architecture and delectable cuisine, Salzburg provides a diverse array of offerings for any traveler.

This travel guide will uncover the most astounding things to do in Salzburg. Additionally, I will share helpful tips for first-time visitors to this radiant and captivating city.

I highly recommend purchasing the Salzburg Card for the entirety of your stay. It grants you complimentary and speedy access to numerous significant city attractions and includes free public transportation. It will quickly offset its cost, even if you only visit a handful of Salzburg’s main highlights in a day! If you plan to spend 2-3 days in the city and its surroundings, this card can be quite handy.

Interesting Facts About Salzburg

Salzburg, translated as “salt fortress,” owes its name to the millennia-old practice of salt mining in its surroundings. The trade of this “white gold” established Salzburg as a potent trading hub.

The city is well-known for its Baroque architecture, prominently visible throughout the old town.

Having suffered minimal damage during World War II, a majority of these ancient Baroque structures have been preserved in their original state.

In 1997, Salzburg’s rich architectural heritage resulted in its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Positioned at the foot of the Alps on the German border, Salzburg is the largest city in the region.

If you have additional time, it serves as an excellent base for exploring nearby places such as Berchtesgaden and and Hallstatt.

Salzburg Bucket List: Amazing 25 Things to Do in Vienna Austria

There are no shortage of things to do in Salzburg. Here you’ll find magnificent palaces and castles, beautiful parks, intriguing museums, impressive churches, stunning viewpoints, traditional breweries, and musical events. All these and much more await you on an ideal visit to Salzburg. I have assembled a list of the top things to do in Salzburg, places, and attractions that are a must-see.

1. Salzburg Cathedral

Referred to as Salzburger Dom in German, the Salzburg Cathedral is an impressive Baroque cathedral located in the heart of the city’s Old Town.

Its grand façade, rich history, and religious significance make it easily one of the city’s most identifiable landmarks.

It was originally built in the 8th century as a church dedicated to Saint Virgil of Salzburg, a renowned Irish churchman of that era.

Salzburg Cathedral is notable for its twin towers that stand approximately 81 meters (265 feet) tall, enhancing Salzburg’s skyline.

While the cathedral’s exterior is undeniably striking, a visit inside is a must.

The cathedral’s interior, with its towering ceilings and intricate decorations, is truly breathtaking, particularly considering the roof sustained damage in World War II.

The lavish high altar, crafted by artist Santino Solari, is regarded as a Baroque masterpiece.

The Salzburg Cathedral also has significant ties to music history.

Mozart, one of its attendees, was baptized here in 1756. Some of his early compositions were performed before the church congregation, marking it as one of the first venues where Mozart’s works were unveiled.

The Salzburg Cathedral still serves as an active place of music and worship, and hosting regular masses.

For those interested in delving deeper into the cathedral’s fascinating history, a visit to the Cathedral Museum is recommended. The museum exhibits a collection of religious art, historical artifacts, including treasures from the Salzburg archdiocese.

A visit to the Salzburg Cathedral is undoubtedly among the top things to do in Salzburg. This remarkable building, impressive from both inside and outside. It hails from the early Baroque period and defines Salzburg’s cityscape with its grand dome and towers.

The cathedral square is also the annual venue for the Christmas market in winter and the renowned Salzburg Festival.

2. DomQuartier Salzburg

Adjacent to the cathedral is the DomQuartier, a vast complex housing five museums. Be sure to visit the panorama terrace for an exceptional view of Baroque Salzburg and the cathedral square.

For museum lovers, DomQuartier Salzburg should undoubtedly top your Salzburg itinerary. Comprising a series of interconnected buildings, the DomQuartier is also home to the Residenz, the former abode of the Prince-Archbishops of Salzburg.

As you traverse the residences, admire the intricate stucco work, exquisite tapestries, and pristine furnishings. Here, visitors can also explore a comprehensive collection of European paintings spanning from the Middle Ages through to the 19th century.

For instance, the Residenz Gallery offers art enthusiasts the chance to scrutinize artworks from renowned artists like Rembrandt, Rubens, and Veronese, as well as local Salzburg artists.

In the Long Gallery, you’ll discover a collection of valuable sculptures and artifacts. A brief stroll across the terrace will lead you to panoramic views of Salzburg’s Old Town.

While not as high as the views from Fortress Hohensalzburg, this vista provides a unique perspective of Salzburg that you’ll struggle to find elsewhere in the city.

DomQuartier was one of the most comprehensive museums I visited in Austria, impressively designed to cater to visitors of all languages through the use of audio guides, and helpful, well-informed staff.

3. Salzburger Altstadt (Old Town Salzburg)

Salzburg’s Old Town, also known as Salzburger Altstadt, ranks among Europe’s most spectacular old towns.

Situated on the left bank of the Salzach River, visitors can easily spend hours admiring Salzburg’s impeccably preserved medieval and Baroque architecture. As well as its winding narrow streets, lively ambience, and pastel-hued buildings.

Featuring attractions such as Getreidegasse, Mozart’s Birthplace, Salzburg Cathedral, and Hohensalzburg Fortress, Salzburger Altstadt is packed with architectural gems, and significant religious sites.

For those visiting Austria to savor its culinary offerings, this is the spot – as some of the country’s best cafes, restaurants, and beer gardens are situated here. Compared to other old towns in Austria, such as Vienna, I can confidently declare that Salzburg’s Old Town is my top pick.

4. Getreidegasse

Getreidegasse is Salzburg’s most renowned shopping street and the city’s vibrant core.

The street is particularly distinguished by its well-preserved old guild signs, which are advertisements adorning the facades of shops and restaurants.

Upon closer inspection, you’ll notice that older houses are often decorated with dates, names of former owners, and even the eye of God.

Notably, one of Salzburg’s most significant attractions, the Mozart House, is located at Getreidegasse No. 9. This elegant yellow townhouse is the birthplace of the world-renowned composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, born in 1756.

Stroll down Getreidegasse, and you’ll feel as though you’ve stepped into a bygone era. Known for its quaint townhouses, upscale boutiques, and charming cafes, a walk through Getreidegasse’s cobblestone streets offers a genuine sense of Salzburg’s essence.

Getreidegasse also hosts a variety of street performers, musicians, and artists.

Given Salzburg’s reputation as one of the world’s most notable musical cities, it’s no surprise that these street performers often deliver world-class performances.

5. Salzburg Museums

Beyond the primary sights and attractions in Salzburg discussed above, the city also hosts numerous museums. Many of these are included with the Salzburg Card and could be a valuable addition to your itinerary.

However, I would only recommend visiting most of them if you are spending more than two days in the city and/or have a keen interest in a particular museum.

It’s also a pleasant thing to do on a rainy day in Salzburg or in winter when you might wish to spend more time indoors.

I visited a few of them and found they weren’t necessarily worth it for a brief visit.

Often, it’s more rewarding to spend more time at fewer locations rather than trying to ‘see it all’.

But if you indeed have spare time, here are some of the best museums in Salzburg (and included with the Salzburg Card):

Salzburg Panorama

Located on Residenzplatz, this museum houses a colossal 26-meter-long panorama painting portraying the city as it appeared in 1829.

Salzburg Christmas Museum

If you’re a Christmas enthusiast, you’ll adore this museum. Most exhibits date from the mid-19th to the early 20th century.

Salzburg Museum

Situated in the Neue Residenz on Residenzplatz, this museum offers insights into Salzburg’s art and history through a somewhat eclectic mix of exhibitions and multimedia installations.

Museum of Modern Art at Mönchsberg

A contemporary art museum featuring works from the 20th and the current centuries.

Toy Museum

This interactive museum can be a fun way to spend a few hours in Salzburg.

6. Mozart’s Birthplace

For Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart fans worldwide, visiting Mozart’s Birthplace is a true highlight and one of the top 5 things to do in Salzburg, Austria.

Located in the yellow “Hagenauer Haus” at Getreidegasse 9, the museum offers much to explore across its three floors. The Mozart family townhouse was constructed in the 12th century but was purchased by Mozart’s father, Leopold, much later in 1747.

During a tour, visitors can marvel at historical instruments like the children’s violin, documents, photos, and letters. The museum primarily focuses on Mozart’s early years, as he spent his childhood and youth here.

Locally known as ‘Mozarts Geburtshaus’, Mozart’s Birthplace is another must-visit in Salzburg due to its historical significance.

The museum provides audio guides, informative displays, and other presentations to offer deeper insights into Mozart’s life and musical evolution. I spent about an hour here learning about Mozart’s life – definitely a worthwhile stop.

7. Mönchsberg

Mönchsberg, standing tall at 508 meters, is a must-see landmark in Salzburg.

Strolling along its scenic trail, which provides a picturesque view of the old town, is truly an enchanting experience.

A visit to the observation deck, situated adjacent to the Museum of Modern Art and Café M32, rewards you with a breathtaking panorama of Salzburg.

The Museum of Modern Art itself is a captivating spot, housing a vast collection of international art pieces from the 20th and 21st centuries.

Reaching Mönchsberg is a breeze, thanks to the easily accessible elevator and the panoramic trail. As you walk, you’ll witness the verdant beauty of Salzburg at its best.

8. Hohensalzburg Fortress

The magnificent Hohensalzburg Fortress, a historic centerpiece of Salzburg, stands as a testament to the city’s rich past.

A trip to this awe-inspiring fortress is an absolute must, as it’s one of the best things to do in Salzburg austria on Sunday. The fortress also provides a stunning vantage point over the surrounding Alpine landscape, acting as a picturesque backdrop to the city’s beautiful architecture.

Nestled atop the Mönchsberg, the 900-year-old fortress can be reached either by a leisurely walk or a convenient ride on the fortress train, located near Stieglkeller and Festungsgasse.

The view from the fortress, overlooking the rooftops of Salzburg, is truly a sight to behold! If you’ve got some time, the intriguing Fortress Museum is worth a visit. Here, you can delve deeper into the history of the fortress, exploring a variety of exhibits, artifacts, and weapons.

Other notable attractions within the fortress include the Marionette Museum, State Rooms, and the Golden Chamber.

Set aside a few hours to fully appreciate these historical gems, as they each contribute to the intricate historical tapestry of Salzburg.

Known as Festung Hohensalzburg, the fortress can be accessed by a quick funicular ride or a steep hike. As someone who enjoys hiking, I opted for the latter and couldn’t recommend it enough for anyone seeking a scenic workout.

9. Mirabell Gardens & Mirabell Palace

A visit to the captivating Mirabell Palace and Gardens is unquestionably one of the best things to do in Salzburg.

The sight of blooming flowers in spring and summer makes the location exceedingly enchanting.

Recognized as a filming location for the iconic “Sound of Music,” it draws fans from around the globe.

Enclosed by the gardens, a stunning Baroque palace complex, established in 1606, is one of Salzburg’s most romantic palaces, with the famed Marble Hall regularly hosting exquisite concerts.

As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the palace was initially erected by Prince-Archbishop Wolf Dietrich von Raitenau and later expanded in the 18th century.

Currently, the Mirabell Palace serves as the municipal office for Salzburg’s Mayor and City Council, although it was primarily used as a pleasure palace in the past.

Mirabell Palace, like many of Salzburg’s attractions, is an architectural blend of Late Renaissance and Early Baroque styles. The palace’s grand arched windows and dominant use of marble make its exterior one of Salzburg’s most imposing structures.

Within the palace, visitors will find the Marble Hall, otherwise known as Marmorsaal, a highlight of the palace.

Adorned with gilded walls, stunning chandeliers, and an intricately decorated marble floor, the Marble Hall is considered one of the world’s most beautiful halls.

It is frequently used as a wedding venue and a space for performances.

10. Kapuzinerberg

Located on the right bank of the Salzach River, the 640-meter-high Kapuzinerberg offers one of the most breathtaking viewpoints in Salzburg.

Reaching the summit can be accomplished via several routes, either by choosing the Imbergstiege from Steingasse or the path from Franziskanertor in Linzergasse.

Although the climb may be somewhat steep, the panoramic view of the old town and the Hohensalzburg Fortress is absolutely spectacular.

The vista from Kapuzinerberg is arguably among the best in the city, and a visit is a must during a stay in Salzburg.

With a bit of luck, you might spot chamois during your walk up Kapuzinerberg, a unique experience likely not to be found in any other city trip.

11. Salzburg’s Cemeteries & Catacombs

Salzburg is also known for its intriguing cemeteries and catacombs. Of these, St. Peter’s Cemetery and St. Sebastian’s Cemetery are particularly noteworthy.

Located on the edge of Mönchsberg, next to a remarkable rock face, is St. Peter’s Cemetery.

A visit to the catacombs, carved into the rock face, is a definite must-do.

The view overlooking the cemetery and historic buildings is well worth the modest entrance fee.

St. Sebastian’s Cemetery, another gem in Salzburg, is also worth exploring.

This old cemetery is the final resting place of many notable figures, including Mozart’s father, Leopold, and his wife, Constanze.

12. St Peter’s Abbey

St Peter’s Abbey, or Stift St. Peter, is a religious site that stands apart from the Salzburg Cathedral due to its ancient monastic roots.

It’s one of the oldest monastic institutions in the German-speaking world, with its origins dating back to the early 7th century.

Though its exterior may seem unassuming, St Peter’s Abbey houses numerous hidden gems within.

A tour through the abbey’s complex will lead you to remarkable structures like the Abbey Church, Cemetery, Library, and Long Gallery.

The St Peter’s Cemetery and Catacombs are particularly intriguing. Providing a tranquil space for a stroll and reflection, it’s also the final resting place of many of Salzburg’s eminent personalities, including Nannerl Mozart, the sister of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart.

The St Peter’s Library deserves a visit as it is home to some of Salzburg’s most significant texts.

It houses medieval manuscripts, important religious books, and other historical documents that have survived several centuries.

Throughout the year, St Peter’s Abbey also hosts artistic performances and classical concerts.

13. Haus der Natur

The Haus der Natur, or House of Nature, is undoubtedly one of the top museums in Salzburg.

Here, visitors can delve into engaging and interactive exhibits centered around nature and science, captivating both young and old alike!

Among its unique features are an enchanting underwater world, a reptile zoo, and a myriad of themed rooms that transport you from the Arctic to the rainforest.

The museum also boasts an interactive science center and a space travel exhibit. The House of Nature is one of the best things to see and do in Salzburg.

14. Linzergasse

Linzergasse, one of Salzburg’s prominent pedestrian-only streets, is renowned for its shopping scene set amidst historic buildings and charming architecture.

This street is a treasure trove of the city’s finest boutiques, art galleries, and specialty stores.

Linzergasse also offers visitors a selection of Salzburg’s esteemed cafés and restaurants, including Café-Konditorei Fürst, Café Bazar, and Triangel Restaurant.

Café-Konditorei Fürst is particularly notable for inventing the original ‘Mozartkugel’, a chocolate-covered delicacy made of pistachio, marzipan, and nougat, often referred to as the ‘Mozart-Bonbon’.

True to its name, this confection pays homage to Mozart and his contributions to Salzburg.

However, Linzergasse is much more than a shopping destination.

Its importance is due to the fact that Salzburg had close trade ties with the city of Linz in the past.

Exploring the vicinity of Linzergasse can lead you to other Salzburg landmarks such as St Sebastian’s Church and Mozart’s Residence (Mozart-Wohnhaus).

15. Bridges of Salzburg

The numerous enchanting bridges are truly a highlight of Salzburg. And a leisurely stroll along the scenic Salzach River is an experience to cherish.

Among the most picturesque attractions is the Mozartsteg, which dates back to 1903 when it was inaugurated as a toll bridge.

The Makartsteg, adorned with countless colorful padlocks, is another bridge worth visiting. It offers a splendid panorama over the river.

Perfect for night photography, the Müllnersteg provides an ideal vantage point to capture the city’s panorama, including the river and the fortress.

16. Hellbrunn Palace & Trick Fountains

Situated slightly outside the city center, Hellbrunn Palace is worth including in your Salzburg sightseeing itinerary if you have at least two days in the city.

This impressive Baroque palace took merely three years to build, from 1612 to 1615 – a record time for the early 17th century!

Constructed as a summer retreat for prince-archbishop Markus Sittikus, over the years, it became a favored escape for various rulers who enjoyed good food, exotic foliage, and the palace’s renowned Trick Fountains.

These fountains, with their hidden water jets, continue to delight visitors today by playfully soaking them. It’s amusing to imagine past aristocrats also being sprayed by these secret fountains!

There’s more to see at this recreational palace. Here you’ll find the water-powered Mechanical Theater with nearly 200 moving wood carvings, the beautifully landscaped gardens, and a large adventure playground for children.

Inside the palace, an exhibition provides further insights into its fascinating history.

Film fans will recognize the gazebo where Liesl and Franz sang together in ‘The Sound of Music’. Another intriguing spot is the Stone Theatre, a natural rock quarry converted into a stage by Markus Sittikus.

Open daily from early April to late October, Hellbrunn Palace is easily accessible by public transport from the city center in about 15 minutes.

Both transport and palace entrance are included with the Salzburg Card. Alternatively, you can reach the palace with a river cruise that includes entry tickets. Various tours also stop here, usually without visiting the palace grounds.

If you’re looking for things to do in Salzburg on Christmas day, a trip to this palace is a must! The entire courtyard and old driveway transform into a magical Advent Market, creating a magical and festive ambience.

17. Alter Markt & Cafe Tomaselli

Known as Alter Markt, the old marketplace in Salzburg is one of the city’s most beautiful squares.

Established as early as the 13th century, it once functioned as a weekly marketplace and was the site of traditional festivals like the Whitsun dance and summer solstice celebrations.

Today, the square captivates visitors with its incredible ambiance, charming Florian fountain, and historic townhouses.

Tomaselli coffee house is great place for a coffee break. Salzburgers have been enjoying this place for over 150 years.

Café Tomaselli is more than just a charming café in the heart of Salzburg — it’s one of the best coffee pilgrimage sites in Europe.

This quaint café, in existence for around 150 years, is one of the oldest establishments still operating in the city.

Founded in 1705, Café Tomaselli has been delighting visitors for centuries with its delicious pastries, renowned coffee, and serene ambiance.

Designed with an elegant, old-world charm, guests are instantly transported back in time as they sit down to enjoy the café’s famous offerings.

This is an ideal spot for people-watching, reading the newspaper, or simply relaxing. It’s said that Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart himself spent a lot of time here working on his music.

I would recommend trying the café’s delectable cakes, such as its Esterhazy cake and apple strudel, alongside a cup of exceptional Austrian coffee.

Just across from Café Tomaselli, you’ll find Kiosk Tomaselli, an extension of the café. With its shady trees and colorful umbrella shades, dining at Kiosk Tomaselli is perfectly suited for the summer.

If you’re in search of the original Mozartkugeln, Salzburg’s most famous confection, you’ll find them at Konditorei Fürst on Alter Markt, right across from Café Tomaselli.

18. Glockenspiel

The Glockenspiel is a unique musical instrument that has enchanted visitors for generations. It can be found on the façade of the New Residence building that also accommodates the Salzburg Museum in Mozartplatz.

Attend a scheduled performance and you’ll be treated to a medley of familiar tunes and animated figurines.

Watching the Glockenspiel is more than just an entertaining spectacle. It’s also a fantastic opportunity to delve into Salzburg’s history. This is because the animated figurines depict scenes from Salzburg’s history and folklore, often featuring notable figures such as Mozart.

The Glockenspiel offers performances multiple times a day, typically on the hour. However, you may need to wait a few minutes as when I visited, it started around five minutes later than usual.

19. Mozartplatz & Residence Square

One of Salzburg’s most splendid attractions is the picturesque Residence Square, adorned with the impressive 17th-century Residence Fountain.

Situated close to the renowned Salzburg Cathedral, this square serves as a magnificent forecourt between the prince-archbishop’s residences.

Thanks to its central location, it’s hard to miss during a city tour.

Just around the corner, you’ll find the charming Mozartplatz with its bronze Mozart statue, another must-see in Salzburg’s old town.

The statue of Mozart has become a sort of pilgrimage site for music enthusiasts and serves as a poignant reminder of Mozart’s importance to the city.

Austrian sculptor Ludwig Schwanthaler crafted the bronze statue in 1842. While it’s the square’s main attraction, there’s plenty more to see and do here.

Throughout the year, Mozartplatz hosts open-air concerts, cultural festivals, and seasonal markets. It draws locals and tourists alike to enjoy the enchanting ambience.

20. Collegiate Church

Known by several names, including ‘Kollegienkirche’ and ‘Holy Trinity Church’, the Collegiate Church can be a bit tricky to locate if you’re using a navigation app. Remember to try all the names if one doesn’t yield results.

This Baroque church, constructed in 1694 and completed in 1707, is characterized by its curved forms, specific ornamentation, and use of lighter colors.

Unlike many other churches in Salzburg that blend architectural styles, the Collegiate Church is a distinctive example of Baroque architecture.

A very distinctive feature of the Collegiate Church that sets it apart from others is its use of marble columns and specific types of ceiling frescoes.

The ceilings, painted by the esteemed artist Johann Michael Rottmayr, showcase detailed visuals related to the Holy Trinity.

In addition, the Collegiate Church is renowned for its exceptional acoustics for choral singing and classical music. This fact makes it a favored venue for musical performances and concerts in Salzburg.

21. Salzach River

The Salzach River, with its enchanting jade hue, meanders through Salzburg and is visible from numerous locations in the city.

More than just a picturesque river to capture in photographs, it functions as a natural demarcation between the historical Old Town of Salzburg and the city’s more contemporary sectors.

Originating from the Austrian Alps, the Salzach River traverses an impressive 225km (140 miles) journey.

It winds its way through charming valleys and towns before reaching the city of Salzburg.

One of the most delightful ways to appreciate the Salzach River is to partake in a riverboat cruise. These cruises typically navigate through verdant spaces, recreational zones, and bridges, presenting a unique vista of Salzburg’s Old Town.

A favored method to relish the Salzach River’s splendor is to stroll along the Salzach Promenade, also known as ‘Salzachufer’. This picturesque pedestrian path skirts the river’s edge for several kilometers. Spanning several kilometers, the promenade invites visitors to revel in the sight of its beautiful trees, ornate benches, and lush greenery, all while absorbing the serene riverside ambience.

22. Stieglkeller Brewery

Nestled in the core of Salzburg, Stieglkeller boasts one of the most spectacular beer gardens in the old town.

From the terrace of this historic brewery, savor a refreshing beer and delectable cuisine while admiring the grand view of Salzburg’s old town.

Its location, directly beneath the fortress, is unparalleled and invites you to linger if time permits.

Don’t miss out on the Austrian delicacies on offer, including the traditional Wiener Schnitzel, the Bier-Bratl, and, Salzburg’s renowned dessert, the “Salzburger Nockerl“.

23. Salzburg Hellbrunn Zoo

The Salzburg Hellbrunn Zoo, one of Austria’s most picturesque zoos, is absolutely worth a visit.

A significant portion of it dates back to the 15th century when it served as the Archbishop’s game park, and today, it’s a popular family destination.

Situated amidst stunning scenery, the zoo houses a diverse range of animal species in habitats designed to mimic their natural environments as closely as possible.

The African section is particularly noteworthy, featuring the lion house and the savannah enclosure.

Conveniently located near the Hellbrunn Palace Park, a visit to the Salzburg Hellbrunn Zoo can easily be paired with a tour of the palace.

24. Schloss Leopoldskron

The enchanting Schloss Leopoldskron, situated on the edge of a quaint lake, is a short stroll or bike ride away from the old town.

Constructed in 1736, this palace was a hub for cultural and artistic gatherings of its era and has since become one of Salzburg’s key attractions.

It even served as a filming location for the globally acclaimed movie, “Sound of Music”.

Currently, Schloss Leopoldskron stands as one of the city’s most prestigious hotels, making it a hidden gem for a truly unique stay in Salzburg!

25. Things to Do Around Salzburg

As evident, the Old Town is replete with numerous awe-inspiring sites to explore. However, the area surrounding Salzburg also boasts a plethora of remarkable attractions and destinations. Here are the top suggestions for unique activities in and around Salzburg:

Zell am See

Nestled to the south of Salzburg, the stunning Zell am See captivates with its serene blend of towering mountains, glaciers, deep gorges, and pristine lakes.

Krimml Waterfalls

The Krimml Waterfalls, the largest in Europe, are another major attraction in the Salzburg vicinity. A visit to these waterfalls is highly recommended.

Wolfgangsee

Lake Wolfgang is an excellent choice for a day trip from Salzburg. A ride on the Schafbergbahn is also highly recommended!

Hallstatt

Renowned Hallstatt in Austria ranks among the most popular day trips from Salzburg. This destination is one of the most picturesque in Austria and is a must-visit.

Vienna

If you’re interested, your Salzburg vacation can be coupled with a trip to Vienna, the capital city of Austria, just a three-hour journey away.

Frequently Asked Questions For Salzburg Faqs

How to Get to Salzburg?

The most straightforward approach to reaching Salzburg is by flying into W. A. Mozart Airport, situated just 4 kilometers from the city center.

This airport maintains robust connectivity with larger European cities like London, Berlin, Madrid, Brussels, and Paris, facilitating easy flights via popular carriers like Lufthansa, British Airways, SAS, and Turkish Airlines.

However, due to Salzburg’s proximity to Germany in the western region of Austria, it’s often more accessible from Munich, Germany.

Munich Airport, being busier than Salzburg Airport, provides extensive connections to destinations not only in Europe but worldwide. A train ride from Munich to Salzburg typically lasts less than 2 hours.

Salzburg also enjoys excellent international train links with major cities such as Zurich, Budapest, Prague, and Bratislava.

If you’re traveling from Vienna, Austria’s capital, there are numerous train alternatives available. The journey usually takes around 2.5 to 4 hours, and tickets can be conveniently purchased in advance through the ÖBB website.

Final Thoughts on The Best Things to Do in Salzburg

Salzburg, with its distinctive beauty, has undoubtedly left an indelible mark on my heart. It’s a city rich in musical heritage, adorned with graceful architecture, magnificent religious edifices, and delightful streets, ensuring things to do in Salzburg are plentiful.

To truly appreciate the allure of Salzburg, I would advise spending at least four days in the city. This duration will allow you to thoroughly discover Salzburg’s gems over a couple of days, while also leaving ample time for memorable day trips in the surrounding region.

The most convenient mode of transportation around Salzburg is car rental, although Austria’s highly efficient public transportation system is easy to navigate. This means you can explore most of the city’s attractions without a car. It might just necessitate a bit of extra time and planning.

That was my list of things to do in Salzburg. Did I miss something? Let me know in comments.