Salzburg: Sights, Day Trips and Travel Tips

Would you like to explore Austria’s unique natural scenery while also learning more about the country’s history and culture? Then be sure to put Salzburg on your list for your next trip. The city combines the fascinating history of the Prince-Archbishops with beautiful nature that is just a short distance away. Below, you will find an overview of the most interesting sights in the city, as well as recommendations for excursions in the surrounding area.

City Sights

Hohensalzburg Fortress

Hohensalzburg Fortress rises high above the Old Town and is considered the largest fully preserved fortress in Central Europe. As such, it is also one of the city’s most important landmarks. If you would like to enjoy an impressive view over Salzburg, you should definitely visit the fortress. You can reach the complex either on foot or by taking the fortress funicular. Built in 1892, the funicular is Austria’s oldest still-operating cable railway of its kind.

It is not only the panorama that is impressive—the fortress itself is also well worth seeing. Learn more about the origins of the complex and visit one of the museums inside. At the Fortress Museum, you can explore the fortress’s history and discover exhibits related to life at the prince-archbishops’ court. In addition, the Marionette Museum and the Rainer Regiment Museum offer further perspectives on Salzburg’s history. Also worth visiting is the historic armoury, where interactive elements help you explore armour and weapons.

On the third floor, you will also find the Prince’s Chambers, consisting of the Prince’s Hall, the Golden Chamber and the Golden Hall. What makes them special is that the furnishings are still preserved in their original condition from 1501/1502 and have not been significantly altered since.

Mirabell Palace and Mirabell Gardens

Alongside Hohensalzburg Fortress, Mirabell Palace and the Mirabell Gardens are among the city’s most popular attractions. Both the palace and the gardens are protected monuments and form part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Inside the palace, the Marble Hall is particularly worth seeing, with its marble columns, stucco work and ceiling frescoes. It is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful wedding halls in the world.

The Mirabell Gardens are also highly recommended. The Baroque-style geometric layout is still clearly visible today, and the alignment toward the cathedral and Hohensalzburg Fortress adds to the gardens’ distinctive charm. Highlights include the Grand Parterre with its central fountain and the four sculptural groups symbolising the elements of fire, water, earth and air, as well as the Small Parterre with the Pegasus Fountain. A visit to the Dwarf Garden from the era of Archbishop Johann Ernst Graf Thun is also worthwhile. Originally, there were 28 dwarfs carved from white Untersberg marble; 17 have survived to this day. The Dwarf Garden is considered the oldest dwarf garden in Europe.

Mozart’s Birthplace

Mozart’s Birthplace is located at Getreidegasse 9 and was originally known as the Hagenauer House. It became famous because Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was born there in 1756. Today, Mozart’s Birthplace is one of Austria’s most visited museums and a must for fans of classical music.

During a tour, you can visit the original rooms where Mozart and his family lived. You will also see furniture and objects from the 18th century, offering an atmospheric insight into the life and surroundings of the world-renowned composer.

Getreidegasse

Getreidegasse is considered the heart of Salzburg’s Old Town and is known for its special charm. Here you will find international fashion brands, traditional inns and long-established local businesses. The architecture is particularly striking, with ornate doorways and windows that become smaller from the first floor upward. Mozart’s Birthplace is also located on Getreidegasse.

Hellbrunn Palace

Hellbrunn Palace has shaped Salzburg for more than 400 years and impresses visitors with its imposing architecture and famous trick fountains. It was built at the request of Prince-Archbishop Markus Sittikus as a place for relaxation and entertainment. The summer residence was completed in the remarkably short period between 1612 and 1615. Today, the palace hosts the permanent exhibition “SchauLust,” where you can learn more about the site’s history. Hellbrunn is also a popular setting for wedding photos.

A particular highlight is the trick fountains, which still surprise and delight visitors today. An audio guide leads you through 21 stations and provides information about Markus Sittikus as well as how the historic Mechanical Theatre works. Please note: in some places, splashing water may catch you off guard.

The park grounds are also worth exploring. You will discover ponds, statues and floral arrangements, and the grounds offer plenty of space to relax. With its adventure playground, the park is also a great option for giving children a fun break from sightseeing.

Haus der Natur (Museum of Natural History)

Haus der Natur is far more than a classic natural history museum. It combines an aquarium, reptile and amphibian areas, and an interactive science centre. This makes it especially suitable for families and offers a varied programme for visitors of all ages.

In addition to the permanent exhibitions, guided tours, science shows, workshops and excursions take place regularly. You can also embark on an exciting journey through time—from the origins of life and prehistoric times to human evolution and the features of the human body. The museum also covers local river landscapes and remote habitats, creating a particularly immersive atmosphere.

Overall, the exhibitions span eight levels across two buildings. The science centre is often described as a highlight, as you can experiment there yourself. For a comprehensive visit, plan around three hours.

Museum der Moderne Salzburg

The Museum der Moderne Salzburg is located on the Mönchsberg and extends across four floors. It presents numerous international works of art from the 20th and 21st centuries. In addition to the exhibits, the architecture is also impressive: the building was designed by the Munich-based architectural firm Friedrich Hoff Zwink and completed in 2004. Notable features include the glass stairwells with views of the 19th-century water tower and the exterior façade clad in local Untersberg marble.

The Untersberg is only a short drive from Salzburg and is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts. If you prefer spending time outdoors, it is well worth planning an excursion to Untersberg and going for a hike.

DomQuartier

The DomQuartier forms the historic centre of the political and ecclesiastical power of Salzburg’s Prince-Archbishops. The museum complex is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site and includes the Residence, the Cathedral and St. Peter’s Archabbey. Take the opportunity to join a tour and learn more about 1,300 years of rule, art, music and architecture. Explore the state rooms of the Residence, which served as the Prince-Archbishops’ home for centuries. Inside the Residence, you will also encounter influences ranging from the Renaissance and Baroque to Classicism. By the way, Mozart also moved in these surroundings during his time.

The Residenzgalerie, with changing exhibitions and artworks from the 16th to the 19th century, is also highly recommended. For a special view over Salzburg, the Dombogenterrasse is well worth a visit. In addition, the Nordoratorium features further exhibitions and impresses with its stucco work. This is also where you will find the Rupertusoratorium, with altar and ceiling paintings depicting scenes from the life of Saint Rupert. Other areas to discover on site include the Cathedral Organ Loft, the Cathedral Museum, the Cabinet of Curiosities, the Long Gallery and the Museum St. Peter.

Salzburg Cathedral

Salzburg Cathedral is considered the city’s most important sacred building and impresses with its mighty dome and twin towers. It shapes the cityscape and is a striking landmark. Explore the cathedral and discover the baptismal font, the crypt, the reliquary shrine containing the remains of Saints Rupert and Virgil, and the art installation “Vanitas.” Learn more about the stories behind the seven bells and the three entrance doors. Also keep an eye on Cathedral Square: depending on the season, events such as the Salzburg Festival or the Christmas market take place there.

Things to See Nearby

Would you like to explore not only Salzburg but also the nature surrounding the city? Then excursions to Untersberg, Gaisberg or Königssee are great options.

Untersberg

Untersberg lies between Salzburg and Berchtesgaden and is considered a legendary mountain of the Alps. The border between Germany and Austria runs right through the massif. Go on a hike and discover not only the impressive landscape but also numerous caves. Particularly worth seeing are the Schellenberg Ice Cave and the Riesending Shaft Cave.

Gaisberg

Gaisberg is often referred to as the local mountain of Salzburg residents and is located very close to the city. The area is a paradise for hikers, nature lovers and recreational athletes. Activities such as mountain biking and paragliding are also possible. In summer, the Gaisberg Race takes place, while in winter, ski touring and cross-country skiing are popular options. As a result, Gaisberg is an attractive excursion destination in every season.

Königssee and Berchtesgaden National Park

Königssee, located in Berchtesgaden National Park, is one of the standout highlights near Salzburg. Enjoy a boat trip on Königssee and admire the impressive natural backdrop of the Alpine region.

Best Time to Visit

If you would like to explore Salzburg in the best weather and are also interested in the surrounding nature, the peak season between June and August is ideal. However, Salzburg can already be enjoyed in spring-like temperatures between March and May. If you would like to avoid the large crowds, the shoulder season can therefore be advantageous. For a special winter experience, December is also recommended: in the cold season, the Alps feel particularly atmospheric, and you can ideally combine a city trip with a day of skiing.

The DMC Team Wishes You a Pleasant Trip

We wish you a wonderful trip to Austria and lots of enjoyment on your exploration tour in Salzburg. Please make sure to familiarize yourself with toll regulations in Austria in advance. You can find more information about tolls in our guide. You are also welcome to use our route planner to plan your journey more easily and to see suitable toll products. If you have any questions, we will be happy to help. Contact us at any time via email.