10 Things To Do In Salzburg: Explore Rome Of The North

A picture of Salzburg, showcasing iconic attractions among the top things to do in Salzburg.

Blessed with a picturesque geographical location, Salzburg is a historic city that is surrounded by fairytale landscapes of Austria’s Alps. This city is famous for having been graced by baroque architecture charming gardens and the Salzach River running through it. From exploring Mozart’s birthplace to admiring the stunning views from Hohensalzburg Fortress, there are various things to do in Salzburg. Whether you’re hiking its scenic trails or exploring its rich history, Salzburg is a perfect destination for all kinds of travellers.

Top 10 Things To Do In Salzburg

Here’s a curated list of top things to do in Salzburg that will make your visit to the destination of Austria unforgettable:

1. Head To Hohensalzburg Fortress

A picture of Hohensalzburg Fortress, which offers some of the top things to do in Salzburg.

Photo: Andreas Stiasny / Wikimedia Commons

Located on Festungsberg hill, Hohensalzburg Fortress is one of Europe’s finest and most famous castles and a defining landmark of the city. Built in 1077 AD, it is one of the largest and oldest castles in Europe. It is beautifully restored to retain its historic charm. People can visit its museums, wander through the dark, initially created dungeons and look at the stately richly decorated staterooms. There are incredible vista opportunities over Salzburg and the Alps from the fortress. It is therefore definitely worth a visit for the history-loving photographer.

Entry Fee: €16 / ₹1,430
Location: Mönchsberg 34
Recommended Time: Early morning for fewer crowds

2. Wander In Mirabell Palace And Gardens

A picture of beautiful Mirabell Gardens, which offers some of the top things to do in Salzburg.

Photo: Richard Symonds / Wikimedia Commons

Mirabell Palace is a baroque gem, surrounded by stunning gardens with vibrant flower beds, fountains, and sculptures. This could be one of the best things to see in Salzburg. These gardens, known best from the movie The Sound of Music, are a quiet place in the centre of the city. Pavements are present in a floral geometric art to walk through or sit next to the Pegasus Fountain. This is combined with the beautiful views of Fortress Hohensalzburg on the outskirts.

Entry Fee: Free
Location: Mirabellplatz 4
Recommended Time: Late afternoon for golden hour photos

3. Visit Mozart’s Birthplace

A picture of Mozart’s Birthplace, a cultural gem among things to do in Salzburg.

Photo: Markuszhang / Wikimedia Commons

Visit the house where W. Mozart was born and saw the history and performance of his life turned into a museum. There are original paintings and drawings, authentic souvenirs, such as a violin on which Mozart originally learned to play. You can also find family photographs, and dramatic letters that tell the story of the young musician’s escape from Austria and his life. This is in a city where he had little hope of finding work in. This could be one of the best things to see in Salzburg.

Entry Fee: €12 / ₹1,075
Location: Getreidegasse 9
Recommended Time: Midday for guided tours

4. Explore Getreidegasse

A picture of Getreidegasse, a top attraction for shopping and sightseeing.

Photo: Leonhard Lenz / Wikimedia Commons

Getreidegasse is a main shopping avenue in the centre of Salzburg full of historic flair and young vitality. The pedestrianised street features chic designer stores, atmospheric coffee shops and houses dating from the 17th century with ornamental iron fascias. This could be one of the best things to see in Salzburg. It is an excellent place for shopping and especially for clothes. You can find trendy and elegant wear from famous designers or can indulge in buying fashionable accessories, jewellery, handmade products or even souvenirs in this effervescent street.

Entry Fee: Free
Location: Salzburg Old Town
Recommended Time: Evening for a lively ambience

5. See The Salzburg Cathedral

A picture of Salzburg Cathedral, a historic highlight among things to do in Salzburg.

Photo: Diego Delso / Wikimedia Commons

Salzburg Cathedral is a stunning example of baroque architecture and a significant religious site in the heart of the city. The large crowds depicted in its sculptures and the carvings in the stone doorway open to an interior covered in more frescoes and one of the biggest 4000-pipe organs in Italy. It is a world-renowned baroque masterpiece and the site of Mozart’s baptism. This makes it both historically and religiously significant. This could be one of the best things to see in Salzburg.

Entry Fee: €5 / ₹450
Location: Domplatz 1a
Recommended Time: Late morning for fewer visitors

6. Marvel At Hellbrunn Palace And Trick Fountains

A picture of Trick Fountains, which offers some of the top activities.

Photo: MatthiasKabel / Wikimedia Commons

Hellbrunn Palace is famous for its Trick Fountains, which playfully spray water on visitors when they least expect it. Originally constructed for residence during summer in 1615, the palace was surrounded by beautiful gardens, water ponds, trails, etc. Inside it is just as lavish, with baroque style and comfort. Most suitable for families and groups, this site offers historical and artistic tours and amusement in one fun-packed place.

Entry Fee: €13 / ₹1,160
Location: Fürstenweg 37
Recommended Time: Early afternoon for outdoor activities

7. Discover Artefacts In Salzburg Museum

A picture of the Salzburg Museum, a cultural treasure to visit.

Photo: Karl Gruber / Wikimedia Commons

The Salzburg Museum is situated in the centre of the city and virtually introduces its guests to the history and culture of Salzburg. The collection is diverse, featuring medieval artefacts, historic military items, decorative arts, ethnographic exhibits and modern art pieces. It is quite an educational experience and is especially attractive to children because of the use of tactile, computer, film and television presentations. Such a visit serves to understand the dramatic change of things to do in Salzburg in terms of development. This is from the medieval trading centre into a cultural metropolis of the present day.

Entry Fee: €9 / ₹800
Location: Mozartplatz 1
Recommended Time: Mid-morning for quieter exploration

8. Embark On A Trail To Untersberg Mountain

A picture of Untersberg Mountain, which offers some of the best adventures.

Photo: GerritR / Wikimedia Commons

Untersberg Mountain is one of the largest and most magnificent mountains. This is a perfect place for nature lovers and for those who like active vacations. Visitors are taken in a cable car up to it to view Salzburg city and the stunning Berchtesgaden Alps. Whether you hike the trails in summer or ski down snowy slopes in winter, Untersberg offers endless adventure. The mountain’s natural scenery is relaxing and far from the noise of the city.

Entry Fee: €27 / ₹2,420 (round trip)
Location: St. Leonhard
Recommended Time: Morning for clearer views

9. Pay A Visit To St. Peter’s Abbey And Cemetery

A picture of historic St. Peter’s Cemetery, a serene spot among the best destinations.

Photo: Ymblanter / Wikimedia Commons

Salzburg is a city dominated by history, and the ancient spiritual monument of St. Peter’s Abbey was established in 696 AD. An important part of this beautiful building is that everyone can admire the magnificent frescoes, rich stoves and the quiet cemetery located at the foot of Mönchsberg. There is burial of important personae and it forms part of the setting of the movie, The Sound of Music. It is also suggested that there is a complicated system of catacombs in the rock beside the lake. Thus, it gives a mystical shade to the complete gathered image.

Entry Fee: Free
Location: Sankt-Peter-Bezirk 1
Recommended Time: Late afternoon for serene walks

10. Participate In The Salzburg Festival

A picture of the grand Salzburg Festival, a cultural highlight.

Photo: Karl Gruber / Wikimedia Commons

The Salzburg Festival is one of the most famous annual international meetings of classical music, opera, and drama. Established in 1920 it alters the city into a cultural center which hosts artists from all over the world that come to perform in the festival. From the street location to large halls, the festival brings real joy to those who are fond of concerts. Visiting the Felsenreitschule and the concert halls or Grosses Festpielhaus should be on any list of recommendations for experiencing things to do in Salzburg’s artistic history.

Entry Fee: Varies
Location: Citywide
Recommended Time: Evening performances for vibrant atmospheres

Salzburg holds an appealing setting, a rich history as well as a close relationship with both civilisation and natural beauty. Whether it is fortress hikes, a tour of a castle, gardens and gardens, or museums, the best things to do in Salzburg are simply one of a kind. Whether they are enjoying the world-famous Salzburg Festival, exploring the world of Mozart, or standing amid this grand mountain Untersberg, this Alpine Jewel is a unique experience. Plan for the wonderful tour to Salzburg right now with TripXL and build the best schedule for you!

Cover Photo: Roberto Ferrari / Wikimedia Commons

Frequently Asked Questions

Hohensalzburg Fortress, Mirabell Palace, and Mozart’s Birthplace are must-visit spots.
Yes! Hellbrunn Palace and Untersberg Mountain are perfect for family outings.
Yes, Getreidegasse and St. Peter’s Cemetery are free and captivating.
Mornings are ideal for sightseeing with fewer crowds.
Absolutely! The Salzburg Festival in summer is a cultural highlight.

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