Is Salzburg worth visiting? Yes — but don’t take my word for it. Picture this: a skyline dominated by baroque domes and the imposing Hohensalzburg Fortress, streets that hum with echoes of Mozart’s music, and a river winding its way through a city framed by Alpine peaks. It’s small, yes, but every corner holds a story, every view a postcard.
I grew up in Australia, a place far removed from Europe’s character. Yet Austria has always felt like a second home — my mother grew up there, though not in Salzburg, and I have cousins in a village just outside the city.
At 18, I left Australia with a backpack and big ambitions. Austria was the second country I visited, and Salzburg quickly became a touchstone. Over six weeks, I wandered its cobbled streets, tasted its crisp mountain air, and soaked in its stillness — a city that whispers rather than shouts.
Over the years, I’ve returned, each visit peeling back new layers. Some dismiss it as “too small,” but that’s precisely why I love it. Salzburg doesn’t overwhelm; it invites you to pause. Whether you’re walking along the Salzach River or catching glimpses of the Alps from a quiet café, it feels like a place where time stretches, offering just enough to make you want more.
So, is Salzburg worth visiting? Without a doubt. Let me show you why.
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Why Salzburg Is Worth Visiting
Salzburg is a city where history, culture, and natural beauty converge. From its UNESCO-listed Old Town and ties to Mozart to the breathtaking Alpine views, Salzburg offers uniqueness and beauty at every turn.
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Cultural Richness
Culture saturates Salzburg — not in an overwhelming way, but in the quiet, unassuming manner of a city steeped in centuries of tradition. While Australia’s cultural landmarks often feel young, with broad brushstrokes of modernity, Salzburg wears its history differently: intricate, layered, and unapologetically baroque.
Mozart may be the name everyone knows, but the city’s cultural tapestry is far more complex. The streets hum with music not because they’re curated to, but because they always have; festivals fill the air with operas, chamber music, and choral harmonies that echo across courtyards and cathedral domes.
Even the architecture tells a story: the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers a kaleidoscope of history, from the medieval to the opulent. Compared to Australia’s sprawling, sunlit spaces, Salzburg feels compressed but alive — a city that doesn’t just preserve its culture but breathes it, effortlessly blending the old with the living pulse of its people.
Wandering here is immersion. One moment I'm crossing a stone bridge; the next, I'm standing in a square where Mozart once played. It’s not a performance — it’s Salzburg, and it feels real.
UNESCO Heritage
Salzburg’s UNESCO World Heritage status is more than a badge of honour - it’s a window into a city that has quietly shaped European history for centuries. The Old Town, with its labyrinth of cobbled streets and baroque facades, is a living, breathing reminder of what happens when art, faith, and power collide.
In Australia, heritage often feels tied to nature — vast landscapes, ancient rock formations, and unbroken skies. Salzburg, by contrast, feels layered: human ambition etched into stone, towering spires reaching skyward, and painted frescoes whispering of centuries past.
But it’s not just the grandeur of its architecture that earned the UNESCO title. It’s the city’s role as a cultural crossroads, where trade, music, and religion flourished together. Standing on Residenzplatz or inside the Salzburg Cathedral I am connected to a story that stretches back hundreds of years.
This is history under glass and underfoot. Every archway, every alley, carries the weight of its past, reminding you that Salzburg’s UNESCO status is both well-deserved and inevitable.
Natural Beauty
Salzburg feels as though it was built to frame the landscape around it. The Salzach River winds through the city like a quiet observer, its waters reflecting the fortress perched high above and the peaks that loom beyond. The surrounding Alps embrace, offering a constant reminder of the vast wilderness just beyond the city’s cobbled streets.
One of my favourite views is from the Mönchsberg. After a short hike, the city spreads out below, its rooftops giving way to green hills and, in the distance, the jagged peaks of the Northern Limestone Alps. It’s the kind of view that stops you mid-thought, where the air feels crisper, the colours sharper.
Even within Salzburg, nature asserts itself. Gardens spill over with blooms in spring, their paths lined with manicured hedges that lead to yet another perfect vantage point. And then there’s the light: golden and soft in the evenings, bouncing off the river and silhouetting the mountains in a way that feels almost theatrical.
In Salzburg, nature isn’t just a backdrop — it’s part of the performance.
Cinematic Fame
Salzburg’s cinematic legacy extends far beyond the hills that famously “came alive.” While The Sound of Music undeniably cast the city in the global spotlight, Salzburg isn’t just a movie set frozen in time. It’s a place where the magic of film feels intertwined with real life, where iconic scenes blend seamlessly into everyday moments.
When I first arrived in Salzburg at 18, I told my Austrian cousins how my mother, who grew up in Austria, would show my sister and me The Sound of Music. I expected them to share the nostalgia, but their response was a quizzical look — they’d never heard of it. It turns out, this is common among Austrians: the film is globally famous, but not locally celebrated.
Still, walk along the Mirabell Gardens and you’ll hear it: visitors humming iconic songs from the film as they step onto the Pegasus fountain. But it’s not contrived; it’s playful, as though the city itself encourages you to step into its story.
At Nonnberg Abbey, the silence inside the chapel feels worlds away from Hollywood, yet it’s impossible not to picture Maria’s tentative steps toward her new life.
For me, Salzburg feels cinematic even without the cameras. The shifting light on the mountains, the drama of the fortress towering over the Old Town, the timelessness of the cobbled streets — it’s all there, waiting to be captured, whether by filmmakers or by the quiet lens of memory.
Top Reasons to Visit Salzburg
Salzburg is a city where every street seems to hold a story. Whether you’re exploring its historic heart, experiencing its deep connection to music, or taking in the surrounding mountains, the reasons to visit unfold naturally as you go.
Explore Salzburg’s Old Town (Altstadt)
Salzburg’s Old Town is a labyrinth of stories.
Dating back to Roman times but flourishing in the medieval and baroque eras, this UNESCO-listed area is one of the best-preserved city centres in Europe.
The Old Town invites you not just to see but to immerse yourself.
To commence, cross the Makartsteg Bridge, adorned with countless love locks, and step into the historic heart of Salzburg. This pedestrian bridge offers more than just a romantic symbol — it provides stunning views of the Salzach River, with the fortress towering above the Old Town and the Alps in the distance. It’s the perfect entryway to the city’s historic allure.
Sometimes it’s the smallest details here that are worth noticing: wrought-iron signs advertising everything from confectioneries to crafts, hidden staircases that seem to climb straight into the hills, and an atmosphere that blends centuries-old tradition with a thriving modern rhythm.
▶ Bosna and Hidden Food Gems
Wander through its narrow alleys, and you’ll find hidden arches leading to quiet courtyards, hole-in-the-wall eateries serving the city’s famous Bosna sausage (a spiced sausage with mustard and curry powder I fell in love with eating), and centuries-old shop signs hanging proudly above doorways. It’s a place that rewards curiosity.
I remember trying Bosna for the first time with my cousin, who lives nearby. Jutta took me to a tiny, nondescript stand tucked into the side of a building — one of those places you’d only know about if you were a local. We grabbed a Bosna sausage each and sat in the square to eat, the sun warming the stones underfoot.
As we ate, we struck up a conversation with the woman sitting beside us, who, surprisingly, was also from Australia. It was one of those small-world moments that makes travel so special.
▶ Salzburg Cathedral
The Salzburg Cathedral stands as the spiritual and architectural heart of the Altstadt. Built in 1628, it’s seen centuries of history unfold, from Mozart’s baptism to the rise and fall of Salzburg’s powerful prince-archbishops.
Its baroque grandeur dominates the skyline, but step inside and you’ll find a serene space filled with intricate frescoes, a soaring dome, and the echo of centuries of faith.
▶ Residenzplatz and Historical Squares
Just around the corner, Residenzplatz offers a lively square framed by fountains, cafes, and the imposing Residenz building itself, once home to Salzburg’s powerful prince-archbishops.
The square has long been a focal point of city life, hosting everything from public gatherings to seasonal markets, and its grandeur is a testament to the wealth and influence Salzburg wielded during its peak.
▶ Mirabell Palace and Gardens
Mirabell Palace, originally built in 1606 by Prince-Archbishop Wolf Dietrich von Raitenau as a gift for his mistress, provides a more curated slice of Salzburg’s history. The symmetrical gardens burst with life in spring and summer, but even in winter, they offer a tranquil escape.
Walking through the gardens for the first time, I couldn’t help but notice how perfectly the pathways frame the views of Hohensalzburg Fortress above. It’s as if every angle was designed for a painting.
Look out for the Pegasus fountain and the famous steps from The Sound of Music, surrounded by a meticulously maintained landscape that’s just as captivating as the fortress views towering in the background.
Visit Mozart’s Birthplace and Residence
Mozart’s legacy is inseparable from Salzburg, and his story begins in the heart of the Old Town. His birthplace, a modest yellow house on Getreidegasse, is now a museum that offers a glimpse into the early life of one of history’s greatest composers. Walking through its narrow halls, you’ll find original instruments, letters, and portraits that bring Mozart’s childhood to life.
A short walk away is his later residence, the Tanzmeisterhaus, which expands on his story with exhibits about his music and family. Both locations are characteristic of the Old Town, their walls bearing witness to a Salzburg that nurtured genius. Standing there, I found it hard not to imagine young Mozart wandering the same streets, the echoes of his music still lingering centuries later.
Hike to Hohensalzburg Fortress
Perched high above the city, Hohensalzburg Fortress is a time capsule.
Built in 1077, it’s one of the largest and best-preserved medieval castles in Europe. The climb to the top made me pause more than once, but the views that unfolded were worth it. Looking down on the red rooftops of the Old Town, the Salzach River, and the distant Alps gave me a sense of just how strategic this location must have been.
Inside, the fortress reveals layers: military history, artistic treasures, and stories of Salzburg’s ecclesiastical power. Whether you’re visiting the Marionette Museum or simply soaking in the panoramic views, Hohensalzburg offers an unmissable glimpse into the city’s thousand-year history.
Take in the Alpine Views
The Alps aren’t just a backdrop in Salzburg — they’re a constant presence, framing the city with jagged peaks and lush green slopes. Whether you’re gazing up from the Old Town or looking out from one of the city’s many vantage points, the mountains have a way of stealing the show. Their sheer scale is humbling, a reminder of nature’s might in contrast to Salzburg’s human-sized charm.
Growing up in Australia, mountains always felt like a bit of an exaggeration. They were hills, really — short, gentle, and unassuming. My mother, who grew up in Austria, would often tell me, “Wait until you see the Alps — there’s nothing like them.”
She was right. The first time I saw the mountains around Salzburg, I couldn’t stop staring. I was spellbound, completely in awe of their towering presence, as if they’d been plucked straight out of a storybook. Even now, every visit feels like seeing them for the first time.
Climbing to higher ground reveals even more. From panoramic views of the city nestled below to trails that wind through alpine meadows, Salzburg is a gateway to some of Europe’s most breathtaking landscapes.
You’ll want to step into the mountains, even if only for a few hours, to fully appreciate their power.
▶ Mönchsberg Walk and Views
A walk along the Mönchsberg offers some of the best views of Salzburg and the surrounding mountains. The trails are accessible yet peaceful, winding through wooded paths that open up to sweeping panoramas of the city, the Salzach River, and the fortress.
It’s an easy way to get a feel for the city’s connection to its natural surroundings without leaving town.
▶ Untersberg Mountain
For a more immersive alpine experience, head to Untersberg, a towering peak just outside Salzburg (across the border, in Germany). The cable car ride to the summit is like stepping into another world, where the air is cooler and the views stretch into the horizon.
Hike along the ridge, find a quiet spot to reflect, or simply take in the sight of the peaks rolling endlessly into the distance. It’s an escape that seems miles away yet is only a short journey from the city.
▶ Maria Plain
Maria Plain, in addition to being a pilgrimage church, is an escape that offers some of the most stunning panoramic views of Salzburg and the surrounding Alps. It's perched on a hill just outside the city.
The Basilika Maria Plain is the focal point of the area, a baroque church that has drawn pilgrims for centuries. It sits on a gentle hill that’s both accessible and rewarding, offering an unspoiled vantage point of Salzburg’s skyline, framed by the Hohensalzburg Fortress and the snow-capped peaks beyond.
On my visit, I found it impossible not to pause and take in the vast expanse.
After exploring the church and soaking in the scenery, I found the nearby Gasthaus Maria Plain to be the perfect place to wind down. One particular memory stands out: enjoying a schnitzel dinner with my newly discovered cousin and her husband as the day faded into evening. The food was hearty and unpretentious, the kind that tastes better in good company after a crisp hilltop walk.
Whether for reflection, photography, or simply an excellent Austrian meal, it’s worth the short trip out of the city.
▶ Scenic Hiking Opportunities
Salzburg is surrounded by trails that offer everything from leisurely walks to more challenging treks, each providing its own perspective on the stunning Alpine scenery. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful stroll through rolling meadows or a hike with dramatic mountain vistas, the area has something for every pace.
One popular option is the Gaisberg Trail, a short distance from the city centre. The circular route around the mountain takes you through lush forests and open fields, with panoramic views of Salzburg and the Alps as your reward.
Another favourite is the Zwölferhorn hike, where a cable car can take you partway up before you continue on foot, offering views that feel like they belong on a postcard.
Even the shorter trails around Untersberg or Mönchsberg deliver a sense of adventure without requiring hours of commitment. Pack water, wear sturdy shoes, and let the trails guide you to some of Salzburg’s most breathtaking sights.
Explore Hellbrunn Palace and Trick Fountains
Hellbrunn Palace is unlike anything I’d seen before — a playful masterpiece of baroque architecture designed not just for grandeur but for fun.
Built in the early 17th century by Prince-Archbishop Markus Sittikus, the palace was intended as a summer retreat, a place for relaxation and entertainment. Its most famous feature is The Trick Fountains, a series of hidden water jets and mechanical surprises that turn every visit into an unpredictable adventure.
When I visited Hellbrunn for the first time, I wasn’t prepared for the sheer creativity behind the fountains. I’d heard stories of unsuspecting visitors getting soaked, but nothing beats experiencing it firsthand.
As we walked through the garden, my cousin slyly lingered behind, waiting for the right moment to activate one of the hidden jets. Before I knew it, I was caught in the crossfire, laughing and dodging sprays of water that seemed to appear out of nowhere. It’s mischief woven into the landscape.
The palace itself is worth exploring too. Its grand halls and frescoed ceilings provide a stark contrast to the playful energy of the gardens, showcasing the duality of baroque design: elegance with a sense of humour. And for fans of The Sound of Music, the gazebo where Liesl and Rolf sang “Sixteen Going on Seventeen” is nestled on the grounds.
Practical tips? Wear shoes that can handle a little bit of water and consider bringing a change of clothes if you’re visiting with children.
The palace is a short bus ride from Salzburg’s centre, making it an easy half-day excursion. It’s a perfect blend of history, art, and lighthearted fun, offering something unexpected at every turn.
Admire Schloss Leopoldskron’s Lakeside Beauty
Nestled just outside Salzburg’s Old Town, Schloss Leopoldskron is a breathtaking rococo palace with an equally stunning lakeside setting. Built in 1736, the palace was originally a private residence but has since become famous worldwide as one of the filming locations for The Sound of Music. Even if you’ve never seen the film, the sheer elegance of this historic site and its surroundings make it worth a visit.
Though the palace itself is now a private hotel and conference venue, you can still enjoy the views from the opposite side of the lake. The reflection of the white facade on the water, framed by the Alps and the distant Hohensalzburg Fortress, is one of Salzburg’s most iconic scenes.
For The Sound of Music enthusiasts, Schloss Leopoldskron will feel familiar — it served as the exterior of the Von Trapp family home in the movie.
If you’re a photographer, don’t forget your camera. The combination of the palace, the lake, and the mountain backdrop creates a composition that’s as enchanting in real life as it is in the photos.
Experience The Sound of Music Tour
Few films have left a mark on Salzburg quite like The Sound of Music. While the locals might not share the global fascination with the movie, its influence on the city’s tourism is undeniable. From the iconic Mirabell Gardens to the gazebo at Hellbrunn Palace, the film’s locations are woven into Salzburg’s fabric.
I never joined one of the official Sound of Music tours — it felt a bit too touristy for my taste. Luckily, my cousins, who live near Salzburg, showed me around the first time I visited, taking me to the film’s key sites without the crowds or structured stops. Standing in the Mirabell Gardens, it was impossible not to hum “Do-Re-Mi” while imagining the Von Trapp children skipping along the same paths.
Whether you choose an organised tour or explore independently, the sites associated with the film are worth a visit — not just for their cinematic history, but for their intrinsic beauty and connection to Salzburg’s identity.
It’s about discovering the places that inspired it.
If you’d like to experience the Sound of Music sites with the convenience of expert guides and transportation, consider booking an official tour. Many tours take you beyond Salzburg’s city centre to locations like Leopoldskron Palace and the lake district, offering a deeper dive into the film’s iconic scenery.
➡ Book your Sound of Music tour here
Enjoy the Salzburg Festival
The Salzburg Festival is one of the world’s most prestigious celebrations of music and drama, attracting audiences from across the globe each summer. While I’ve never attended myself, its reputation speaks volumes: world-class performances of opera, theatre, and classical music take centre stage in a city that feels like it was built for such artistry.
If you’re a fan of classical music, this festival is the pinnacle — a place where the works of Mozart, Strauss, and Beethoven come alive in venues like the Großes Festspielhaus and the baroque Domplatz. Even if you’re not attending a performance, the energy in Salzburg during the festival is apparently palpable, with street performers, open-air concerts, and a lively buzz that fills the air.
Though I’ve yet to experience the festival firsthand, its legacy and impact on Salzburg’s identity are undeniable.
Indulge in Regional Austrian Cuisine
Salzburg’s food scene is deeply rooted in Austria’s culinary traditions, offering hearty, comforting dishes that feel like a warm embrace.
While I didn’t dive into much regional cuisine specifically tied to Salzburg during my visits, I savoured plenty of classic Austrian staples, often shared over lively meals with my cousins at their home or occasionally in local restaurants.
Dishes like Schnitzel — crispy, golden, and served with a squeeze of lemon — were regular fixtures on the table, as were Knödel (dumplings) and Gulasch, a rich stew perfect for cooler days. For dessert, Apfelstrudel with a side of warm vanilla sauce was a must, its flaky pastry and spiced apple filling epitomising Austrian comfort food (with fond childhood memories of my grandmother's cooking).
If you’re dining out in Salzburg, look out for Kasnocken, a cheesy dumpling dish from the Alpine region, or Salzburger Nockerl, a soufflé-like dessert said to resemble the surrounding mountains.
While I didn’t always eat out, the meals I had in Salzburg’s traditional restaurants felt like stepping into a slice of Austrian life, where food is less about presentation and more about heart and history.
For an immersive experience, visit one of Salzburg's beer halls or taverns, where you can pair your meal with a crisp Austrian beer.
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Practical Tips for Visiting Salzburg
Salzburg is a compact city, making it easy to explore on foot or by public transport, but planning ahead can help you make the most of your visit. From choosing the best time to visit to knowing how to navigate the city efficiently, these tips will help create a smooth trip.
Getting to Salzburg
Salzburg’s central location in Europe makes it easily accessible, whether you’re arriving internationally or travelling from a nearby city.
By Plane
Salzburg Airport (W.A. Mozart Airport) is located just 4km from the city centre, offering convenient connections from major European hubs. While it primarily serves regional and European flights, international travellers can fly into Munich Airport, which is just a two-hour train or bus ride away.
From the airport, taxis, buses, or shuttle services will get you to the city centre in under 20 minutes.
By Train
Salzburg Hauptbahnhof (Main Station) is a major rail hub with excellent connections to Vienna, Munich, and other European cities. High-speed trains like ÖBB Railjet or Deutsche Bahn ICE offer quick and comfortable journeys, with stunning Alpine views along the way.
Once you arrive, the Old Town is just a short walk or bus ride from the station.
By Bus
Long-distance bus services like FlixBus connect Salzburg to various cities across Europe at budget-friendly prices. The buses typically stop at Salzburg’s main station, making it easy to transition to local transport.
While the journey can take longer than by train, it’s often a more economical option.
By Car
Driving to Salzburg gives you the flexibility to explore the surrounding Alpine countryside at your own pace. Major highways connect the city to destinations like Munich and Vienna, though keep in mind that parking in the city centre can be limited and expensive.
Be sure to purchase a vignette (toll sticker) if you’re driving on Austrian motorways.
Getting around Salzburg
Salzburg isn't particularly large, which makes it a walkable city and easy to navigate without a car.
On Foot
Many of Salzburg’s main attractions, including the Old Town and Mirabell Gardens, are within walking distance of each other. The city’s pedestrian-friendly streets and scenic paths make strolling one of the best ways to experience it - it's how I've always moved around Salzburg.
Comfortable shoes are a must, as some areas, like the Mönchsberg, involve a bit of uphill walking.
By Bike
Salzburg is a bike-friendly city with well-maintained cycling paths that connect major attractions. Renting a bike is an easy and enjoyable way to explore, especially if you want to venture slightly outside the city centre.
By Bus
Salzburg’s efficient network of buses and trolleybuses makes getting around seamless. A single ticket covers most routes, and multi-day passes are available for added convenience.
The Obus (trolleybus) system is particularly useful for reaching areas like the airport or Hellbrunn Palace.
By Taxi or Ride-Sharing
Taxis are readily available in Salzburg, though they can be more expensive than public transport. Ride-sharing services like Uber are less common than in larger Austrian cities, so traditional taxis or pre-booked shuttles are more reliable options.
By Car
While having a car isn’t necessary for exploring the city itself, it can be useful if you plan day trips to nearby attractions like Hallstatt or the Eagle’s Nest.
Be aware that parking in the city centre is limited and often expensive, so look for designated garages on the outskirts and use public transport to get around the centre.
Where to Stay in Salzburg
Here are a few options to suit various budgets.
Budget: Yoho International Youth Hostel
For budget-conscious travellers, the Yoho International Youth Hostel is a classic choice, welcoming backpackers since 1978. Located just a 10-minute walk from the main train station and steps from the famous "Do-Re-Mi" stairs, it’s a fantastic base to explore Salzburg.
With free Wi-Fi, lockers, and even daily screenings of The Sound of Music, it adds a touch of fun to your stay. Bonus points for their summer bike rentals and on-site Salzburg Card sales!
Mid-Range: Villa Flöckner Bed & Breakfast
If you’re looking for a cosy yet refined stay, Villa Flöckner Bed & Breakfast hits the sweet spot between mid-range and boutique comfort. Situated within walking distance of Mirabell Palace and Mozart's Birthplace, its central location is ideal for exploring Salzburg.
Guests rave about the rooms, thoughtful amenities, and the delicious buffet breakfast. With its tranquil garden and solo traveller-friendly atmosphere (a whopping 9.1 rating!), it’s perfect for those seeking a relaxed, well-appointed stay without tipping too far into luxury prices.
High End: Hotel Sacher Salzburg
Looking for the ultimate splurge in Salzburg? Hotel Sacher Salzburg has it all — historic charm, jaw-dropping views of the Old Town and Hohensalzburg Fortress, and five-star service that makes every moment feel special. Since 1866, this iconic hotel has been a beacon of elegance, blending rich tradition with modern comforts like silk wallpapers, original artwork, and all the luxury amenities you could want.
Whether you're savouring the world-famous Sacher Torte at their chic café, enjoying a riverside dinner at the Salzachgrill, or winding down with live piano music at the Sacher Bar, every detail is designed to impress. If you’re ready to indulge, this is where Salzburg’s magic shines brightest.
Best Time to Visit Salzburg
Salzburg’s character changes with the seasons, making it a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on what you’re looking for.
Summer (June to August) brings warm weather, bustling festivals, and longer days perfect for exploring the city’s outdoor attractions. The Salzburg Festival dominates the calendar, drawing visitors from around the world. However, this is also the busiest and most expensive time to visit, so plan and book early.
Autumn/Fall (September to November) offers cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, and stunning fall colours that transform the surrounding hills and Alpine landscapes. It’s an ideal time for hiking and sightseeing at a more relaxed pace.
Winter (December to February) brings a magical atmosphere to Salzburg, with Christmas markets lighting up the Old Town and snow often dusting the rooftops. It’s a quieter time outside the festive season, making it perfect for those who want to experience the city without the crowds.
Spring (March to May) is a time of renewal, with flowers blooming in the Mirabell Gardens and the countryside coming to life. It’s also a less crowded and more affordable time to visit compared to summer.
For me, spring stands out. I remember strolling through the Mirabell Gardens one crisp morning, the air filled with the scent of blooming flowers and the distant hum of the Salzach River. The city felt alive yet tranquil — a perfect balance that left me enchanted.
How Many Days to Spend in Salzburg
The ideal amount of time to spend in Salzburg depends on your travel style and interests, but most visitors find that two days is enough to experience the city’s highlights without feeling rushed.
In two days, you can explore the Old Town, visit iconic sites like Mozart’s Birthplace and Hohensalzburg Fortress, and take a walk along the Mönchsberg for stunning views. But with a third day, you could venture slightly further afield to places like Hellbrunn Palace, the Untersberg, or even take a short Sound of Music tour.
If you’re a slower traveller or want to immerse yourself more fully, spending four or five days allows for relaxed exploration, day trips to nearby destinations like Hallstatt and Berchtesgaden.
When I first visited Austria, I stayed for several months, spending six weeks in Elixhausen, a town just outside Salzburg. Having that much time allowed me to soak in the city slowly, revisiting favourite spots and exploring every hidden corner.
While most travellers won’t have that luxury, Salzburg’s compact size makes it perfect for a short stay.
Day Trips from Salzburg
Salzburg’s location makes it an ideal base for exploring some of Austria’s and Bavaria’s most stunning destinations. With some convenient transportation options, you can venture out for a day and return in time for dinner.
▶ Hallstatt
A UNESCO World Heritage site, Hallstatt is a picture-perfect Alpine village nestled beside a serene lake. Famous for its historic salt mines and postcard-worthy views, it’s just over an hour by car or two hours by train and bus from Salzburg.
Spend the day wandering the cobbled streets, visiting the Skywalk for panoramic views, or taking a boat ride on the tranquil Hallstätter See.
▶ Berchtesgaden and the Eagle’s Nest
Located just across the border in Germany, Berchtesgaden offers breathtaking mountain scenery and historical intrigue. Visit the Eagle’s Nest, a mountaintop retreat with stunning views, or explore the Königssee, a crystal-clear lake surrounded by towering peaks.
It’s about a 30-minute drive or accessible by bus from Salzburg.
▶ Werfen and Hohenwerfen Castle
Home to one of Austria’s most impressive medieval castles, Werfen is a perfect day trip for history and nature lovers. Tour Hohenwerfen Castle, known for its falconry demonstrations, and explore the nearby Eisriesenwelt, the largest ice cave in the world.
Werfen is just a 40-minute train ride from Salzburg.
▶ Wolfgangsee and St. Wolfgang
For a more tranquil escape, head to the Wolfgangsee, a stunning lake surrounded by Alpine beauty. Visit the quaint town of St. Wolfgang, ride the Schafberg Railway for panoramic views, or simply relax by the water.
It’s just an hour from Salzburg by car or bus.
▶ Großglockner and the High Alpine Road
For those seeking an unforgettable day trip, the Großglockner, Austria’s tallest mountain at 3,798 meters (12,461 feet), is a must-see. Located about two hours from Salzburg by car, the journey itself is part of the adventure.
The Grossglockner High Alpine Road is one of Europe’s most scenic drives, winding through breathtaking landscapes of rugged peaks, lush meadows, and glacial vistas.
At the end of the road lies the Kaiser-Franz-Josefs-Höhe, a viewpoint offering spectacular panoramas of the Großglockner and the Pasterze Glacier below. There are plenty of opportunities for hiking, photography, and even spotting marmots in their natural habitat.
Just be sure to check the road’s seasonal opening dates, as it’s typically accessible only from May to October.
Your Salzburg FAQs Answered
Here are some answers to common questions about Salzburg, from practical tips to must-know details for planning your trip.
Is Salzburg expensive to visit?
Salzburg doesn’t have to break the bank!
While central accommodation and peak-season prices can add up, there are plenty of ways to stretch your budget. Consider staying in nearby villages, which might save you some money but can provide a chance to experience a quieter side of Austria. There's always CouchSurfing, or staying in hostels.
Street food like Bosna sausages is affordable and delicious, and many of the city’s best spots — like the Old Town and Mirabell Gardens — are free to explore.
Plan ahead, and Salzburg can be as budget-friendly or indulgent as you want.
What is Salzburg most famous for?
Salzburg is famous for Mozart, baroque architecture, and the stunning Alps — but for many, The Sound of Music is the first thing that comes to mind. While locals don’t always share the global obsession with the film (I learned this firsthand from my cousins!), its impact on tourism is undeniable.
Beyond the movie, the city’s appeal lies in its unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty — whether you’re wandering through the Old Town or soaking in the mountain views.
How far is Salzburg from Vienna or Munich?
Getting to Salzburg from Vienna or Munich is quick and scenic.
From Vienna, you’re looking at about 2.5 hours by train — faster than driving, and the views of the Austrian countryside are fantastic.
From Munich, it’s even easier: just 1.5 hours by train or under two hours by car.
Both routes are so picturesque, they almost feel like part of the trip itself.
Is Salzburg suitable for Solo Travellers?
Absolutely! Salzburg is a fantastic destination for solo travellers. The city is compact and easy to navigate, so you’ll never feel overwhelmed. Whether you’re strolling through the Old Town, hiking up to Hohensalzburg Fortress, or enjoying a quiet coffee by the Salzach River, there’s a sense of calm and safety here that’s perfect for exploring solo.
Plus, the locals are welcoming, and there’s a relaxed vibe that makes it easy to strike up conversations if you’re looking for company — or just enjoy the peace if you’re not!
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Conclusion: Is Salzburg Worth Visiting?
Without a doubt, Salzburg is a city that lingers in your memory.
Its charm lies in the quiet moments — wandering the cobbled streets of the Old Town, pausing by the Salzach River, or catching your breath atop a fortress with the Alps as your backdrop. It’s a place where Mozart’s melodies echo through the alleys and nature’s grandeur feels just a stone’s throw away.
For me, Salzburg has always been a second home — not just because of family ties, but because of the way it invites you to pause and immerse yourself. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or staying longer, Salzburg offers something rare: a chance to slow down, savour the present, and leave with memories as rich as its history.
Whether it’s your first visit or your fifth, Salzburg is undeniably worth adding to your itinerary.
