The Ultimate Guide to Salzburg’s Must-See Sights and Experiences

Few cities capture the imagination, like the attractions in Salzburg. Nestled amidst the snow-capped Alps and straddling the banks of the sparkling Salzach River, this enchanting Austrian city feels plucked straight from the pages of a fairy tale. But while Salzburg’s UNESCO-listed historic centre certainly oozes Old World charm, there’s much more to discover here than just scenic beauty.

Top Things to See in Salzburg

From the cultural riches of the summer Salzburg Festival to the mediaeval splendour of castles in Salzburg, the city packs a surprisingly rich array of experiences into its compact cityscape. Whether you’re a classical music aficionado, a history buff, or simply seeking to soak up the atmosphere of one of Europe’s most beguiling destinations, our insider guide uncovers the very best places to visit in Salzburg.

1. Hohensalzburg Fortress – Salzburg’s Crowning Glory

Towering 120 meters above the city atop Festungsberg hill, Hohensalzburg Fortress is undoubtedly the most iconic of all the castles in Salzburg. Dating back to 1077, it’s one of Europe’s largest fully preserved medieval fortresses. You can reach the castle via a scenic 20-minute uphill walk from the Old Town or opt for a breezy ride on the Festungsbahn funicular railway. Once inside, explore the lavish staterooms, torture chambers and lookout towers, and marvel at sweeping views over Salzburg’s spires and domes.

Insider Tips for Visiting Hohensalzburg Fortress

• Time your visit for late afternoon to catch the golden hour glow over the city

• Book tickets online in advance to skip the queues, especially in peak summer months

• Don’t miss the engaging Fortress Museum, showcasing medieval weapons and artefacts

2. Mirabell Palace and Gardens – A Baroque Jewel Box

Immortalized in The Sound of Music, Mirabell Palace and its geometrically landscaped gardens are a Baroque masterpiece and one of the most photogenic tourist places in Salzburg. Stroll amidst the manicured hedges and gurgling fountains of the Baroque Garden, spot cheeky cherub statues in the Dwarf Garden, and climb the Pegasus Fountain steps for that iconic snap. Inside the Palace itself, the lavish Marble Hall plays host to regular classical concerts – an unforgettable way to experience this architectural gem and one of the best things to see in Salzburg.

Tips for Experiencing Mirabell Palace Like a Local

• Visit early morning for crowd-free photos of the gardens

• Check the concert schedule and book tickets for an evening Marble Hall performance

• Combine your visit with a wander through adjacent Kapuzinerberg Park for city views

3. Getreidegasse – A Charming Journey Through Mozart’s Salzburg

Wind your way along Getreidegasse, Salzburg’s bustling main shopping street in the heart of the Old Town, and you’ll soon find yourself transported back to Mozart’s era. This is a must on the list of places to visit in Salzburg. The narrow medieval alleyway is lined with tall townhouses sporting ornate wrought iron guild signs – a nod to their original function as merchants’ homes and workshops. Number 9 Getreidegasse is particularly special – it’s the birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and now houses an intimate museum devoted to Salzburg’s most famous son.

Must-Visit Spots on Getreidegasse for Mozart Fans

• Linger in Mozart’s Birthplace Museum, where original portraits and instruments paint a compelling picture of the composer’s life and work

• Attend a Mozart-themed dinner concert at nearby St. Peter’s Abbey, featuring musicians in period costume

• Shop for handcrafted Mozart-inspired chocolates and souvenirs in the street’s enticing boutiques

4. DomQuartier Salzburg – A Immersive Journey Through Salzburg’s Spiritual Heart

Sprawling across a full 1,300 square meters in the heart of Salzburg’s Old Town, the DomQuartier is a unique museum complex encompassing the Cathedral and Residence. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the most fascinating and historically significant things to see in Salzburg. Across a meandering route through the state rooms, galleries and sacred spaces, visitors can trace Salzburg’s evolution from a medieval monastery to an 18th-century cultural capital. Highlights include the extravagant Prince-Archbishop’s Residence, the soaring Gothic nave of Salzburg Cathedral, and the exquisite Rossacher Collection of Baroque art.

Planning Your DomQuartier Visit: Practical Tips

• Set aside at least 2-3 hours to fully experience the sprawling complex

• Buy the combination “Gold Ticket” for access to all areas and exhibitions

• Guided tours in English are available, offering rich historical and architectural context

5. Hellbrunn Palace – A Trick Fountain-Filled Wonderland

Perched in the foothills just south of Salzburg, Hellbrunn Palace is a 17th-century Baroque estate famed for its whimsical trick fountains and one of the major attractions in Salzburg. As a summer pleasure palace commissioned in 1612 by Prince-Archbishop Markus Sittikus, Hellbrunn is a monument to the Baroque era’s penchant for elaborate water features and humorous garden follies. On a guided tour of the extensive grounds, prepare to be soaked by hidden water jets and surreal grottoes – all part of Archbishop Sittikus’s mischievous vision. The Sound of Music fans will recognize the famous gazebo from “Sixteen Going on Seventeen.”

Making the Most of Your Hellbrunn Palace Visit

• Wear waterproof shoes and be prepared for gentle splashing!

• Pack a picnic to enjoy in the expansive, sculpture-studded gardens

• Catch the Hellbrunn Palace Christmas Market in December for handcrafted gifts and treats

6. The Salzburg Festival

One of Austria’s most significant cultural events is the Salzburg Festival, held annually from late July to the end of August. Established in 1920, it transforms the entire city into a vibrant opera, drama, and concert stage.

Key Features of the Salzburg Festival

• Duration: Approximately five weeks

• Performances: Over 170 performances across various venues

• Notable Productions: Includes operas by Mozart and new interpretations of classic plays

• Venues: Performances occur at iconic locations such as the Grosses Festspielhaus and Felsenreitschule

Make the Most of the Attractions in Salzburg with Airtel

So there you have it – five of the most captivating attractions in Salzburg to kickstart your adventures in this storybook city. Of course, no matter how carefully you plan your itinerary, there’s one travel essential you won’t want to skimp on – staying connected. With Airtel’s Postpaid International Roaming plans, you’ll enjoy seamless data connectivity as you roam from fortress to palace, museum to concert hall. Stay powered up for on-the-go route mapping, sharing Mozart’s birthplace selfies, and booking last-minute concert tickets. Because in a destination as captivating as Salzburg, you’ll want to share every magical moment.