As the birthplace of Mozart and the setting of “The Sound of Music,” Salzburg, Austria is a city with a rich history and culture. From exploring historic castles to taking in stunning mountain views, there are plenty of things to do in Salzburg for every type of traveler. Here are the best things to do in Salzburg, Austria.
Best Things to Do In Salzburg, Austria
1. Explore Hohensalzburg Castle
Hohensalzburg Castle is one of the largest medieval castles in Europe, and it offers incredible views of the city below. Visitors can take a funicular to the top of the castle to explore its various rooms and exhibits, and can also take in a panoramic view of Salzburg from the castle’s tower.
2. Walk through Mirabell Palace and Gardens
Mirabell Palace and Gardens is a beautiful 17th-century palace and garden complex that was originally built for the Archbishop of Salzburg. Visitors can stroll through the gardens, which are beautifully manicured and feature fountains, statues, and flower beds.
3. Visit Mozart’s Birthplace
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was born in Salzburg in 1756, and his birthplace is now a museum that showcases his life and work. Visitors can tour the house where he was born, which features original manuscripts, instruments, and other artifacts related to his life and music.
4. Take in the views from Kapuzinerberg
Kapuzinerberg is a hill on the eastern edge of Salzburg that offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains. Visitors can take a leisurely hike to the top of the hill, or can take a funicular to the top for even easier access.
5. See the Salzburg Cathedral
The Salzburg Cathedral is a stunning baroque church that was originally built in the 17th century. Visitors can admire its impressive facade and ornate interior, which features beautiful frescoes and sculptures.
6. Visit the Salzburg Museum
The Salzburg Museum is a modern museum that showcases the history and culture of the city. It features exhibits on Salzburg’s art, music, and architecture, as well as its political and social history.
7. Walk through St. Peter’s Cemetery
St. Peter’s Cemetery is one of the oldest cemeteries in Austria, and it is known for its beautiful baroque tombs and graves. Visitors can stroll through the cemetery and admire its ornate gravestones, which date back as far as the 13th century.
8. Take a Sound of Music Tour
The Sound of Music was filmed in Salzburg, and fans of the movie can take a guided tour of the city to see the various locations used in the film. The tour includes stops at Mirabell Palace and Gardens, the Nonnberg Abbey, and other iconic sites from the movie.
9. Visit Hellbrunn Palace
Hellbrunn Palace is a beautiful 17th-century palace that was built for the Archbishop of Salzburg. Visitors can tour the palace’s rooms and gardens, and can also take a tour of its famous trick fountains, which feature surprising water displays and hidden jets.
10. Enjoy a concert at the Mozarteum
The Mozarteum is a famous music school in Salzburg, and it also hosts regular concerts featuring some of the city’s best musicians. Visitors can enjoy classical music performances in the school’s beautiful concert hall, which was named after Mozart.
Best Times of Year to Visit Salzburg, Austria
Salzburg is a city in Austria that is known for its rich cultural heritage, picturesque views, and historic landmarks. It is a city that can be visited at any time of the year, but the experience can differ depending on the season. In this article, we will take a look at the best time of year to visit Salzburg, Austria.
Summer (June to August)
Summer is the peak season in Salzburg as the weather is mild and there are many outdoor events and festivals taking place. The temperatures usually range from 20 to 25 degrees Celsius, making it a perfect time for outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and swimming. One of the most popular summer events is the Salzburg Festival, which takes place in July and August and is a celebration of music and opera. This is also a great time to explore the city’s historic landmarks, such as the Hohensalzburg Fortress and Mozart’s birthplace.
Fall (September to November)
Fall is a great time to visit Salzburg as the crowds have thinned out, the weather is still pleasant, and the fall foliage adds a beautiful touch to the city’s landscape. The temperatures usually range from 10 to 20 degrees Celsius, making it a perfect time for exploring the city on foot. This is also a great time to visit the Salzburg Cathedral and take a stroll along the Salzach River. Additionally, there are many fall festivals and events taking place, such as the Rupertikirtag festival and the Jazz and the City festival.
Winter (December to February)
Winter in Salzburg is a magical time, as the city is transformed into a winter wonderland with snow-covered roofs, streets, and trees. The temperatures usually range from -5 to 5 degrees Celsius, making it a perfect time for winter activities like skiing and ice-skating. The Salzburg Christmas Market is one of the most popular events during the winter season, and it is a great opportunity to experience the local culture and cuisine. Additionally, the city’s many museums and galleries are a great way to escape the cold and learn more about Salzburg’s rich history and culture.
Spring (March to May)
Spring is a great time to visit Salzburg as the weather is mild, the crowds are still thin, and the city is blooming with flowers and greenery. The temperatures usually range from 10 to 15 degrees Celsius, making it a perfect time for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling. This is also a great time to explore the city’s many gardens and parks, such as the Mirabell Gardens and the Hellbrunn Palace Gardens. Additionally, there are many spring festivals and events taking place, such as the Easter Market and the Festival of Flowers.
Salzburg is a city that can be visited at any time of the year, depending on your preferences and interests. Whether you want to enjoy the summer festivals, explore the fall foliage, experience the winter wonderland, or admire the spring flowers, Salzburg has something to offer all year round.
