When I planned my trip to Austria, visiting Salzburg was at the top of my list, and it didn’t disappoint! The city is world-renowned for its connection to Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and The Sound of Music, but while I was there, I found so much more to discover.
From its UNESCO World Heritage status to its rich history and delicious food, Salzburg is a place that will capture your heart!
I absolutely loved getting lost in the Old Town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, admiring the stunning views along the Salzach River, and exploring the beautiful Mirabell Palace and Mirabell Gardens.
The city is a perfect mix of history, culture, and natural beauty, and being surrounded by the Alps made it even more magical. Whether you’re here for one day or more, there are so many things to see and do!
Here’s my guide to the top things to see in Salzburg, Austria!
⏰ Short on time?
Must See Sights in Salzburg
– Mirabell Palace & Gardens
– Hohensalzburg Fortress
– Mozart’s Birthplace
Activities We Recommend
– Salzburg City Tour
– Apple Strudel & Salzburger Nockerl Cooking Class
– Original Sound of Music Tour
Stay Somewhere Magical in Salzburg
($) Gästehaus im Priesterseminar
($$) Hotel Elefant
($$$) Hotel Sacher Salzburg
Disclaimer: Please note that some of the links in this article may be affiliate links. This means that, at no extra cost to you, I may earn a small commission if you click on or make a purchase through these links.
Main Sights to See in Salzburg
Starting with one of the must-see and iconic sights in Salzburg, in my opinion, is the Mirabell Palace & Gardens. The palace’s Marble Hall is one of the most beautiful wedding halls in the world, and the gardens are equally stunning, with perfectly manicured lawns, fountains, and sculptures. The Mirabell Gardens are also famous for being featured in The Sound of Music.
- Location: Mirabellplatz 4, 5020 Salzburg
- Time Needed: 1-2 hours
- Cost: Free to enter the gardens
- Salzburg Card: Entry to the palace is included
The Old Town (Altstadt) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best-preserved baroque cities in Europe. I loved wandering through its narrow streets, discovering hidden squares, charming shops, and historic buildings. It’s a beautiful blend of history and culture, with plenty of sights to keep you busy for a day.
- Location: Salzburg Old Town
- Time Needed: 2-3 hours
Cost: Free to explore
Only got a few hours in Salzburg?
👉 Pre-book this 2-hour walking tour to see Mozart’s city without wasting time.
As the birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, this museum offers a fascinating insight into the life of one of the world’s greatest composers. It was incredible to see where Mozart was born and spent his childhood, with various exhibits showcasing his family’s life and work.
- Location: Getreidegasse 9, 5020 Salzburg
- Time Needed: 1 hour
- Cost: €12 for adults
- Salzburg Card: Free entry
I’d definitely recommend booking this Mozart dinner concert in advance
👉 It’s a magical night of music and fine dining and it does sell out fast.
The DomQuartier Salzburg is a fantastic way to experience the history of the city, showcasing the Salzburg Cathedral, St. Peter’s Abbey, and the Archbishop’s Residence. This complex was once the center of power for Archbishop Wolf Dietrich, who played a significant role in shaping the city.
- Location: Residenzplatz 1, 5020 Salzburg
- Time Needed: 2 hours
- Cost: €13 for adults
- Salzburg Card: Free entry
The Hellbrunn Palace is famous for its trick fountains and beautiful gardens. This palace was built as a summer residence for Archbishop Wolf Dietrich, and the trick fountains are sure to bring out the child in you! It’s a fun, interactive experience, and I loved exploring the grounds.
- Location: Fürstenweg 37, 5020 Salzburg
- Time Needed: 2 hours
- Cost: €13.50 for adults
- Salzburg Card: Free entry
The Hohensalzburg Fortress is one of the largest and best-preserved medieval castles in Europe. Offering panoramic views over Salzburg, this fortress is a must-see for history enthusiasts. You can take the cable car up the hill to the fortress, or if you’re feeling energetic, you can walk up. Inside, you’ll find fascinating exhibits on the city’s history.
- Location: Mönchsberg 34, 5020 Salzburg
- Time Needed: 2-3 hours
- Cost: €13.30 for adults (includes the cable car)
- Salzburg Card: Free entry
The Hohensalzburg Fortress is one of the largest and best-preserved medieval castles in Europe. Offering panoramic views over Salzburg, this fortress is a must-see for history enthusiasts. You can take the cable car up the hill to the fortress, or if you’re feeling energetic, you can walk up. Inside, you’ll find fascinating exhibits on the city’s history.
- Location: Mönchsberg 34, 5020 Salzburg
- Time Needed: 2-3 hours
- Cost: €13.30 for adults (includes the cable car)
- Salzburg Card: Free entry
Skip the ticket line at Salzburg Cathedral
👉 Book your entry with audio guide and explore it at your own pace.
Peter’s Abbey & Cemetery
One of the oldest monasteries in Europe, St. Peter’s Abbey is a beautiful site filled with history. The cemetery is also worth visiting, as it’s one of the oldest in the world and served as inspiration for the graveyard scenes in The Sound of Music.
- Location: Sankt-Peter-Bezirk 1, 5020 Salzburg
- Time Needed: 1 hour
- Cost: Free entry
The Museum of Modern Art offers a contemporary twist in a city steeped in history. Located on top of the Mönchsberg, this museum provides fantastic views over Salzburg and showcases modern art from international and local artists.
- Location: Mönchsberg 32, 5020 Salzburg
- Time Needed: 1-2 hours
- Cost: €8 for adults
- Salzburg Card: Free entry
This historic abbey is the oldest continuously active nunnery in the world. It’s also known for its connection to The Sound of Music and offers beautiful views over Salzburg.
- Location: Nonnberggasse 2, 5020 Salzburg
- Time Needed: 30 minutes
- Cost: Free
Short on Time? Try One of These Salzburg Tours
Explore the highlights of Salzburg on this Hop-On Hop-Off tour that allows you to discover the city at your own pace.
For food lovers, this is a must! Learn how to make delicious Austrian desserts with a fun and interactive class.
Where to Stay in Salzburg
For first-time visitors, I recommend staying near the Old Town or the city centre, as it’s within walking distance of most major attractions. Here are my top picks.
Budget: Hotel Zum Hirschen Salzburg – A cozy and affordable option located in the city centre.
Mid-Range: Motel One Salzburg-Mirabell – A comfortable stay along the Salzach River with beautiful views.
Luxury: Hotel Sacher Salzburg – A 5-star hotel offering exceptional service and a central location.
Where I Stayed in Salzburg
Watch our hotel review staying at Hotel Zum Hirschen in Salzburg!
Stay Somewhere Magical in Salzburg
($) Gästehaus im Priesterseminar
($$) Hotel Elefant
($$$) Hotel Sacher Salzburg
FAQ on Visiting Salzburg
Salzburg is most famous for being the birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and for its connection to The Sound of Music.
Salzburg is famous for its rich musical heritage, stunning baroque architecture, and its UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town.
Yes, it’s possible to see the highlights of Salzburg in one day, but staying for a few days will allow you to explore more thoroughly.
Absolutely! Salzburg is a very walkable city, and most of the top things to see are within walking distance.
Don’t miss Hohensalzburg Fortress, Mozart’s Birthplace, Old Town, and the Mirabell Palace & Gardens.
Consider buying Mozartkugeln (chocolate balls), local crafts, and souvenirs from the Old Town.
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