Exploring Salzburg: What to Do and Where to Go?

Salzburg is the fourth-largest city in Austria and the cultural, economic, and political center of the state of Salzburg. Situated on the River Salzach, it is one of the most beautiful cities in the region and attracts visitors from around the world. Home to the World Heritage Site of Salzburg Old Town, this city is full of cultural attractions, beautiful parks, and interesting museums.

From classical venues to world-famous festivals, Salzburg has something for everyone. In this guide, we explore what to do and where to go in Salzburg, regardless of your budget or interests.

Must-See Attractions in Salzburg

When visiting Salzburg, you must include several must-see attractions in your itinerary. Here are some of them:

Mozart’s Birthplace & Museum

Mozart’s birthplace is one of the most famous attractions in Salzburg and meaningfully associated with the city’s musical heritage. The house in which he was born in 1756 provides a fascinating glimpse into the life and times of the celebrated composer. Guided tours of the museum offer a comprehensive overview and insight into the life of one of the city’s famous sons. Visitors not only get the chance to see the bedroom and halls where Wolfgang Amadeus lived with his family but can also learn about his amazing legacy and Music School.

Fortress Hohensalzburg

Looking out over Salzburg from its perch on Monchsberg Hill, the Fortress Hohensalzburg is one of the largest preserved medieval castles in Europe. This hundred-meter-long fortress was built between 1077 and 1090, and its turrets dominate the skyline. Inside the fortified walls, visitors can explore the impressive collection at the Marionette Museum, taking in a magical performance or seeing exhibitions on Salzburg’s rulers. Further exploration reveals captivating views of the city from the battlements, as well as numerous courtyards, chapels and dining halls, all inside this impressive fortress.

Walking Through Mirabell Palace & Gardens

Head directly to Mirabell Palace and Gardens at summertime to revel in all its baroque beauty. The castle was built between 1606 and 1613, and was once a summer residence for Prince-Archbishop Wolf Dietrich. Today, you can admire its elegant exteriors and explore what inside, followed by a walk down through formal gardens and romantic grottos. Don’t miss out on a stroll through the “Gnome Garden’ where more than one hundred bronze figures depict characters from fairy tales and folklore.

Experience Salzburg’s Night Life & Culture

Besides exploring monuments and landmarks, there’s plenty to do in Salzburg even after dark. While locals tend to gather in small pubs around historic squares, visitors flock to street cafes alongside cobblestone alleys and narrow lanes famous for its nightlife energy.

You can also visit Stadtkeller, around five minutes walking distance from Getreidegasse’s main square. This cellar restaurant offers classic dishes for dinner as well as live Medieval music in the evening (reservations required). Moreover, you can catch classical concerts at Haus fur Mozart or have a dinner at Hellbrunn Castle – celebrating its 600th anniversary in 2020 – where concerts are hosted in its beautiful Baroque courtyards during summertime.

If art is something you’re interested in, be sure to visit Galerie Beyeler – a compilation of modern artworks from iconic artists such as Picasso, Jackson Pollock or restorative paintings from Old Masters such as Renoir or Cezanne. As well you could visit the Modern Art Museum dedicated to contemporary Austrian art. Moreover, various festivals like Mozart Week held annually during winter or famous music showdown “Sound of Music” festivals take place throughout springtime onwards.

Where to Stay in Salzburg

Salzburg has everything from iconic stately grand hotels with gorgeous rooms, alive with history and grandeur, to more modern 5-star experiences offering all you could wish for in luxury & comfort. Our favorite ones are Hotel Amadeo, Altstadt Vienna Hotel & Gasthof Schnecklhofer Hotel, all three with excellent ratings from past guests.

Where to Eat in Salzburg?

No trip to Salzburg would not be complete without trying some local cuisine. You can find classic Austrian dishes like schnitzel and strudel almost everywhere in Salzburg’s Hofbraeuhaus and local restaurants such as Zur Goldenen Ente or Zum Grieswirt recommended for their traditional Salzburger fare that has been passed down through generations. For something more contemporary try Maona Restaurant or Duck & Tiger serving modern takes on the traditional dishes.

Whether you are visiting Salzburg for a weekend getaway or a weeklong visit there is much to keep you entertained. From museums to landmarks and old town markets there is something for everyone depending on your interests. If you are looking for an escape filled with art, culture and history than look no further–you will be spoiled for choice exploring Salzbourg’s incredible offerings!

URL:https://www.tripindicator.com/salzburg/articles/things-to-do-in-salzburg-austria.html