Salzburg’s Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is undoubtedly one of the most magical historic centres in the world.

It has beautifully preserved baroque architecture, cobblestone streets, and beautiful squares with a backdrop of the Alps and Hohensalzburg Fortress. The Old Town has a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.

How to reach Salzburg:

The question of how to reach Salzburg depends on where you are travelling from. The city is well-connected by different means of transport.

By Air:

Salzburg has an international Airport called Mozart Airport, and it’s located just a few kilometers from the city center. The airport has numerous flights to major European cities. You can take a bus, taxi, or shuttle from the airport to the city, and it takes around 15–20 minutes.

By Train:

Salzburg is also very well connected by rail to major cities like Vienna, Munich, Innsbruck, and Zurich. The Salzburg Main Station is close to the city center and well connected by public transport to the Old Town. 

By Bus:

If you are looking for a relatively cheaper way to reach Salzburg, you can take a bus from other cities like Munich, Vienna, Prague, and Budapest. The bus station is located in the city center, and you can easily reach the old town. 

Bus travel is often more budget-friendly, and most buses arrive near the main train station, from where you can easily reach the Old Town by local transport or on foot.

Where to Stay in Salzburg:

If you are looking for the best location to stay in the heart of Salzburg, it is highly recommended to stay at Altstadthotel Kasererbräu. The hotel has a long and fascinating history and has been owned by the same family for over a century.

Guests can also enjoy the in-house Mozart Kino cinema, one of the oldest cinemas in the world (showing films since 1905), where they can watch movies during their stay.

You can also check out our blog about the best hotel to stay in Salzburg.

How many days should you spend in Salzburg?

Many people visit Salzburg as a day trip, but you don’t do justice to the city if you allocate only one day. Salzburg needs at least three days to truly indulge in the city’s history and culture.

In three days, you can explore the Old Town, Salzburg Cathedral, Residenz, Mozart attractions, Hohensalzburg Fortress, and many other highlights at a relaxed pace.

Things to do in Salzburg:

1. Fortress Hohensalzburg:

One of Austria’s most famous castles is located in Salzburg. It’s not only one of the largest but also the best preserved medieval fortresses in Europe. The fortress is located on the hilltop of Festungsberg, and it’s a reflection of the power of Salzburg’s prince-archbishops.

The castle was built in 1,077 and you can enjoy the beautiful view of Salzburg’s Old Town, the Salzach River, and the surrounding Alpine landscape. 

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You can wander inside the fortress walls and learn about the history by visiting fortified towers, courtyards, decorated rooms, museums, and the famous Golden Chamber, which presents the late Gothic craftsmanship.

You can either hike to the fortress and enjoy the mesmerizing view on your way, or if you are not in the mood to hike, you can also take a FestungsBahn funicular, which you can take from Festungsgasse 4 in Salzburg’s Old Town up to Fortress Hohensalzburg. It’s a quick scenic ride, and you can reach the uphill within a few minutes.

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You can also buy an all-inclusive ticket which includes round trip of funicular ride up and down, and access to the fortress areas and museums.

2. Schloss Hellbrunn:

If you are in Salzburg, then you shouldn’t miss a visit to Schloss Hellbrunn. It’s a very unique and playful attraction and is known for its famous trick fountains, also called Wasserspiele. It has hidden water jets that target its visitors. The castle was built in the early 17th century as a summer residence for the Prince-Archbishop.

The castle is located around 5 KM of south of Salzburg Old Town, and you can easily take public transport from the old town to Hellbrunn Palace. 

You can also explore the palace interiors, take a stroll through the gardens, and relax in the calm palace. 

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3. Salzburg Zoo Hellbrunn:

Just from the short distance from Schloss Hellbrunn, you can also findthe Salzburg Zoo Hellbrunn. It’s a family-friendly attraction founded in 1,961. The Zoo has over 1,200 animals from around the world. If you are visiting with your family, you can experience the sense of natural habitats. 

4. Salzburg Cathedral:

The Salzburg Cathedral is one of the iconic architectural landmarks of the city. The Cathedral is located in the heart of the old town. It has Barique facade and twin towers, and it was built in the 17th century and presents the symbol of Salzburg’s religious and cultural heritage. 

One of the significant aspects of this cathedral is that Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was baptized here in 1756. You can admire the beauty of the cathedral from inside and outside.

5. Salzburg Old Town:

The charming old town of Salzburg is marked as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are several iconic architectural landmarks that you can see while wandering through the old town.

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You can find grand churches, elegant palaces, and lively cafés around every corner. There are also several hotels, local artistic shops, and boutiques. 

You should visit Getreidegasse, which is a famous shopping street known for its traditional, colorful façades. Mozart’s Birthplace is also located in the old town. You can also roam around the open squares near Residenzplatz and Domplatz, and you can see the fountains.

You can also visit Goldgasse, which is another charming, picturesque street with pastel-colored houses, small boutiques, traditional craft shops, and restaurants. You might have seen in some pictures, the iconic golden sphere with the backdrop of Fortress Hohensalzburg - that’s Kapitelplatz. 

You can also enjoy the most beautiful and lovely square of Salzburg’s Old Town, which is Residenzplatz. In the center, it has Residenzbrunnen, a large marble fountain with a background of the Alps. 

Residenzplatz is one of the most beautiful and lively squares in Salzburg’s Old Town. Framed by the Salzburg Cathedral, the Old Residence, and elegant Baroque buildings, the square feels grand yet welcoming.

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At its center stands the impressive Residenzbrunnen, a large marble fountain adorned with mythological figures, often considered one of the finest Baroque fountains north of the Alps.

6. Mozart’s Birthplace:

Mozart’s Birthplace is located in the heart of the Old Town. It’s the bright yellow house where Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was born in 1756. The house is now a museum and provides a glimpse of Mozart’s life and legacy.

During our visit, we explored original rooms, personal letters, portraits, and historic instruments, including Mozart’s childhood violin.

7. Mirabell Palace:

Mirabell Palace is also located in the heart of Salzburg city. It was built by Prince-Archbishop Wolf Dietrich in 1606. The Palace has beautiful Baroque architecture, and it’s famous for its Marble Hall.

The palace also has  Mirabell Gardens, where you can see the geometric flowerbeds, fountains, statues, and the iconic Dwarf Garden. 

You can also rest and relax in the garden and enjoy the beautiful view of Fortress Hohensalzburg. Nowadays, the palace hosts events and concerts. 

8. DomQuartier Salzburg: 

DomQuartier Salzburg is also located in Salzburg’s Old Town, and it includes the complex of landmarks, which includes  Salzburg Cathedral (Dom), the Residenz Palace, the St. Peter’s Monastery, and its museum. 

We have explored magnificent Baroque rooms, ornate chapels, and grand halls, and it has historical artifacts,  paintings, and furniture. You can also enjoy the panoramic views of the city from the terraces. 

The DomQuartier reflects the culture, religious values, and political history of Salzburg. 

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9. House ride:

Just imagine — how Salzburg used to be in medieval times. You can experience a throwback to those days by taking a traditional horse-drawn carriage ride in Salzburg Old Town.

The carriages (Fiaker) typically wait around Fiaker & Kutschenfahrt near Residenzplatz / Salzburg Cathedral (Dom), where you can hop on for a historic tour through the city’s charming center.

It’s best to book directly at the stand in the Old Town (near the Cathedral/Domplatz). There is no advance reservations are usually needed for the shorter rides.

There are two main options:

• A short ride (about 20–25 minutes) through the core of the Old Town. This tour is ideal if you want a quick taste of historic Salzburg.

• A longer ride (around 50 minutes) that also includes parts of the Neustadt and riverside areas.

For the short tour (~20–25 min), the price is about €57 per carriage (carrying up to 4–5 people).

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On this ride, you’ll enjoy seeing centuries-old houses, pastel façades, narrow cobblestone streets, and charming flower-lined windows while relaxing in the horse-drawn carriage. It’s a lovely way to soak in the atmosphere of Salzburg’s historic heart.

10. The Museum der Moderne Mönchsberg:

If you are a fan of the arts, you should definitely visit the Museum der Moderne Mönchsberg. You can take the scenic walk to reach the museum, or you can also take a lift from the old town.

The museum has an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art, photography, and international exhibitions. 

You can also enjoy the beautiful view of the fortress, old town, and the surrounding Alps, making the visit as much about the setting as the art itself.

11. Franziskanerkirche:

Franziskanerkirche is one of the oldest church of the city, and it was built inthe 13th century. The church has  Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque elements, reflecting centuries of history and renovations.

You can see the Gothic spire of the church from far away and it reflects the glimpse of Salzburgspiritual and artistic heritage. 

12. Best spots to enjoy the view of Salzburg Old Town & Hohensalzburg:

There are many spots in the city where you can enjoy mesmerizing views and spend some quiet, relaxing time. Here are some of our favorite places:

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1. Mönchsberg Mönchsberg: It offers one of the best panoramic views of the city, especially from the terraces near the Museum der Moderne Mönchsberg. It’s a great place to visit in the afternoon or at sunset.

2. Hohensalzburg Fortress: From the fortress walls and viewpoints, you can enjoy beautiful views of the city, the Salzach River, and the surrounding Alps.

3. Kapuzinerberg: Kapuzinerberg is another great spot, but it’s more peaceful. A short uphill hike rewards you with lovely views of Hohensalzburg Fortress and the Old Town.

4. Mirabell Palace & Gardens: From Mirabell Palace and Gardens, you can enjoy a beautiful view of the fortress, framed by flowers, statues, and the dome of Salzburg Cathedral.

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5. Rainberg Rainberg: It is also worth visiting, offering a wonderful view of Hohensalzburg Fortress, especially during golden hour.

6. Müllner Steg (Bridge) From Müllner Steg, you can enjoy a beautiful view of Hohensalzburg Fortress and the Salzach River.

13. Boat tour in Salzburg:

You can explore and enjoy the mesmerizing views of Salzburg in a different way with a relaxing river cruise. On the boat, you’ll see the Salzach River, the Old Town, and the majestic Hohensalzburg Fortress.

The boats pass by historic buildings, bridges, and riverside gardens, providing a unique perspective of the city. Evening cruises are also available, offering a beautiful, atmospheric experience. We recommend taking this sightseeing tour during the summer months for the best weather and views.

14. Stroll on the river:

You can also enjoy a stroll along the river, which we recommend as a must-do activity during summer. Locals and tourists alike can often be found sitting on the riverbank, relaxing and enjoying the view.

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15. Nonnberg Abbey and St. Peter’s Monastery:

This Nonnberg Abbey was founded in the 8th century, and it’s one of the oldest convents in German speaking world. You can also visit St. Peter’s Monastery, which is just a short walk from the abbey. It’s a cemetery which is famous for its picturesque tombs carved into the cliffs. 

Ending Note: Day Trips from Salzburg:

a. Salzburg Caves:

If you have enough time, we would recommend visiting the Salzburg Caves, officially known as Eisriesenwelt.

These caves are located 40 km south of the city, and they are the largest ice caves in the world. You should at least spend an entire day there. The journey includes the cable car ride followed by a scenic walk to the entrance.

The caves have towering ice formations and frozen waterfalls, and even in the summer, the temperature is below freezing. 

b. Fantasiana Erlebnispark Straßwalchen

If you are a fan of theme parks, then you should consider a day trip to Fantasiana Erlebnispark, which is about 30 km away.

It offers roller coasters, water rides, themed attractions, and fairy-tale areas, making it ideal for families with children as well as thrill-seekers.

The theme park has different themed areas, different attractions, and shows. It’s a great day trip and easily accessible by Public bus from Salzburg.