Located in the far west of Austria, close to Munich, in the heart of Germany, Salzburg is a city of 160,000 inhabitants (approx.) known for its beauty but also and above all, for its surrounding mountains.
Indeed, the city is located on the northern slopes of the Alps and offers a breathtaking view of some of the highest and most beautiful passes of the chain. Moreover, the city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Here, we present our selection of the top 10 things to do in Salzburg. 10 must-do’s, for an exceptional stay!
What to do in Salzburg?
One thing is sure, when you go to Salzburg, you won’t have time to get bored. Indeed, the city is full of nice and natural places to visit.
In the following article, we are going to unveil a list of these 10 unmissable activities in Salzburg. This will help you to organize your stay in the best possible way.
1. Hohensalzburg Fortress
Salzburg is overlooked by the Hohensalzburg fortress. It is the most famous monument in the city. Built in 1077, this castle is very well preserved.
The place has been used as a military barracks, then as a prison before being used (and still is) as an international academy in summer and as a concert hall.
Visitors can also visit it to learn more about the history of the one that was never conquered.
2. Discover Salzburg’s Old Town
Salzburg is on UNESCO’s World Heritage List for a reason. Its old town is exquisite. You’ll love its historic and picturesque buildings, its beautiful little squares and alleys leading to places you’d never think of visiting.
Mixing medieval and baroque aspects, it is the ideal place to walk around! One of the must-do activities in Salzburg! Nearby are some of the best bars in Salzburg.
3. Visit Mozart’s house
On January 27, 1756, one of the greatest musical virtuosos, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, was born in Salzburg. Today, his birthplace can still be visited. It is the most famous and most visited monument to the composer in the city.
Within this small museum, there are three exhibitions that trace the history of the family, the life of Mozart the composer and the real life, the personal life of the man. The visit takes about 90 minutes. The building is located at Getreidegasse 9.
4. Getreidegasse
Getreidegasse is the shopping street of Salzburg. If you are a shopping enthusiast, you won’t find anything better. From small typical stores to local souvenirs and big brands, you will find everything here.
The ideal place for those who want to do some shopping before going home. A street that is a must in Salzburg. Please continue and discover some of the best hotels in Salzburg.
5. Mirabell Castle and its French gardens
As you can see, there are many palaces in Salzburg. Mirabell Castle is one of the most beautiful in the whole country. Classified as a cultural heritage monument, the Palace was built in 1606 and was mainly used as a pleasure palace.
The interior is very neat, with an increased use of marble. The garden is in the French style. Exceptional, there are small alleys, fountains, beautiful hedges etc.
6. Hellbrunn Castle
The Hellbrunn Castle is located at Fürstenweg 37 in Salzburg. This place was created in the 1600s and served as a second home, much like the Mirabell. If the interior is nice, the main attraction remains what is outside the building.
A great garden, caves, fountains and the nearby Salzburg Zoo. A place that you should not miss to visit. One of the must-sees in Salzburg.
7. Salzburg Cathedral / Residenzplatz
Salzburg Cathedral is located in the middle of a small enclosed square. Founded in 774, the building was destroyed and rebuilt several times. The front facade has two bell towers. On the outside, there is a beautiful column located in the heart of the Domplatz.
A building to visit, which is on your way. Don’t hesitate to stop there, especially at the end of the year when the Christmas market is organized!
8. Hangar 7
Hangar 7 is a museum that belongs to the founder of Red Bull Dietrich Mateschitz. An elegant and unusual museum, it offers a great collection of historical planes, helicopters and other racing cars.
A place that is only for car enthusiasts? Yes and no. Hangar 7 also houses the Michelin-starred restaurant Ikarus as well as two bars and a lounge.
9. Skiing
Depending on the season (and therefore, the winter) we strongly recommend you to try a little skiing. Salzburg is surrounded by the Alps. It is therefore possible to reach some well-known ski resorts.
These include St. Johann, Bad Hofgastein, Zell am See, Kaprun and Kitzbühel. In short, there is plenty to do, especially since all these resorts are within an hour or an hour and a half’s drive from the city center.
10. Haus der Natur
The Haus der Natur in Salzburg is a large museum of more than 7.000m². It is located at Museumspl. 5 and tells the story of nature, the local flora and fauna and is very playful.
Your children will love being in front of large models of dinosaurs! We strongly recommend that you visit this must-see attraction in Salzburg.
What to eat in Salzburg?
Are you looking for an authentic experience, especially on the culinary aspect? Luckily for you, we have prepared a list of the 10 best restaurants in Salzburg where you can eat and enjoy a typical Austrian dish.
This will allow you to get to know the culture of your host country a little bit better.
Where to stay in Salzburg?
Are you planning to spend several days in the heart of Salzburg, Austria? We invite you to discover our selection of the 10 best hotels in Salzburg.
These are good-value, quality establishments that are sure to satisfy your need for comfort!
What to do in Salzburg? Our conclusion
Salzburg is not a big city. Nevertheless, it has a lively atmosphere. We particularly appreciate its geographical position, close to Germany and the Alps. It is ideal for walking and enjoying the fresh air, skiing and doing some sports.
To find out more about this beautiful city, don’t hesitate to discover our content on the few brunches in Salzburg.