The short answer: In Salzburg, see the Baroque old town with its cathedral and Getreidegasse, Mozart's birthplace, Hohensalzburg Fortress and the Mirabell Gardens. One day covers the highlights, and two to three days leave time for Hellbrunn Palace, the Salzkammergut lakes or a concert. Salzburg is lovely from May to October and during Advent.
Top Sights in Salzburg
For more than a thousand years Salzburg was an independent church state. Its prince archbishops shaped the city in Italian Baroque style, which is why it is often called the "Rome of the North". The old town has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1996.
Getreidegasse and Mozart's Birthplace
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was born in 1756 at Getreidegasse 9. This narrow shopping street with its wrought iron guild signs and hidden passageways is the city's best known stroll.
Cathedral, Residenz and the Squares
Salzburg Cathedral, Residenzplatz with its fountain, Kapitelplatz and Domplatz form the Baroque heart of the city. In summer, the famous play "Jedermann" is staged in front of the cathedral during the Salzburg Festival.
Hohensalzburg Fortress
The fortress above the city is one of the largest fully preserved castles in Central Europe. The funicular takes you up in minutes, and the view stretches across the rooftops to the Alps.
Mirabell Gardens and The Sound of Music
The Mirabell Gardens, framing the cathedral and fortress, are among the most popular photo spots. Many American visitors recognize them from "The Sound of Music", whose filming locations are spread across the city and the surrounding countryside.
How Much Time Do You Need?
- 1 day: old town walking tour in the morning, fortress and Mirabell Gardens in the afternoon.
- 2 days: add Hellbrunn Palace with its trick fountains or a Sound of Music tour.
- 3 days or more: day trips to the Salzkammergut, Hallstatt or a salt mine.
Best Time to Visit
May, June and September show Salzburg at its best. In July and August the Salzburg Festival fills the city, so book accommodation early. During Advent the Christmas market on the cathedral and Residenz squares is a highlight. Salzburg is known for its persistent drizzle, so always pack an umbrella.
Practical Tips
- Start early: Getreidegasse is much quieter in the morning than at midday, when day visitors and tour buses arrive.
- Cross the river: Most visitors stay in the old town on the left bank of the Salzach. The right bank offers the Mirabell Gardens, the Mozart Residence and charming Linzer Gasse.
- Wear good shoes: Cobblestones and the climb to the fortress or the Mönchsberg are much easier in sturdy footwear.
- Catch a concert: Salzburg hosts concerts year round, from Mozart evenings to church music in the cathedral.
Explore with a Guide
A licensed guide leads you through passageways you would hardly find alone and weaves Mozart, prince archbishops and the festival into one lively story. We recommend these tours:
- Salzburg Altstadt & Mozart
- Salzburg Highlights mit Sound of Music
- Festung Hohensalzburg & Salzbergwerk
- Kulinarisches Salzburg: Bier, Nockerl und Mozartkugel
- Kinder-Salzburg: Ritter, Mozart und Zauberflöte
Salzburg FAQ
Is one day enough for Salzburg?
A well planned day covers the old town, the cathedral, Mozart's birthplace and the fortress. If you want to see Hellbrunn or the countryside, stay at least one night.
How do I get up to Hohensalzburg Fortress?
Take the funicular from Festungsgasse or walk up a short but steep path. At the top you are rewarded with one of the finest views in Austria.
Is Salzburg good for families?
Absolutely. The fortress, the trick fountains at Hellbrunn and stories about young Mozart delight kids, and family tours keep the pace child friendly.
Where are the Sound of Music filming locations?
Some are right in town, such as the Mirabell Gardens, others are out in the countryside and the Salzkammergut. A guided tour links the most important spots comfortably.
Plan Your Salzburg Tour
Discover Salzburg with a licensed local guide: book your tour now or contact us for a tailor-made program. More about the city at Tourism Salzburg.