Sightseeing and leisure activities in Salzburg

UNESCO World Heritage Salzburg – a city between tradition and modernity

Salzburg is known as one of the most beautiful cities on earth, and rightfully so. Strolling through the crooked lanes in the city centre, you will discover traces from the Middle Ages, Romance, Renaissance and Baroque as well as elegant classicist town houses. Fortress Hohensalzburg is throning high above the city's rooftops. It is one of the best preserved medieval fortresses in Europe and offers an impressive view across the city.

Salzburg: The city to visit in 2020, according to Lonely Planet

The travel book publisher Lonely Planet has chosen Salzburg as the number 1 city to visit in 2020. This honour is owed to the 100-year anniversary of the world-famous Salzburg Festival, the historic city centre being a UNESCO World Heritage site, the extensive cultural offer and, last but not least, the medieval fortress and the breathtaking Alpine panorama.

Also the New York Times listed Salzburg as one of the 52 Places to Go in 2020.

Discover modern Salzburg

Apart from its impressive history, the multi-faceted city of Salzburg also shows its modern side with leading-edge theatre and dance productions, the Museum der Moderne (Museum for Contemporary Art) and of course the extraordinary exhibition and event location Hangar-7 at Salzburg Airport.

Music & Culture

Next to Mozart's Birthplace, the Mozarteum is one of Salzburg's most important cultural highlights. Experience outstanding musical moments with the Mozarteum Orchestra. Even more culture is waiting for you at Salzburg State Theatre, Salzburg Museum or one of the many other museums Mozart's hometown has to offer.

find out more about Salzburg's cultural offer

Excursions

Let the countless exciting destinations in and around Salzburg surprise you! Discover numerous animal species that live on 14 hectares at Salzburg Zoo Hellbrunn. If you are aiming higher, take the lift to enjoy the panoramic view from Mönchsberg. While you are there, take the chance to visit the Museum der Moderne - Museum for Contemporary Art.

more popular destinations in and around Salzburg

Fortress, churches & castles

The historic influence of the Catholic Church on the city of Salzburg is still very present in its buildings. Next to St. Peter's Abbey, the oldest monastery within the German-speaking countries, countless small churches are spread across the whole region. A particular attraction is of course Salzburg Cathedral, where the famous composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was baptised. Not only sacred buildings, but also many castles like Mirabell Palace greatly influence the city's architectural landscape.

find out more about Salzburg's palaces and fortress

Wine and dine

The Austrian cuisine and hospitality is famous across borders. Taste your way through regional delicacies like Salzburger Krautspatzen (mini egg dumplings with sauerkraut), Pinzgauer Kasnocken (small egg dumplings with cheese), Kaiserschmarrn (sweet shredded pancakes with raisins) and Salzburger Nockerl (vanilla soufflé). Wash it all down with a pint of traditionally brewed Stiegl beer at one of the typical beer gardens. Experience the original Austrian "Kaffeehauskultur" (coffeehouse culture) with a cup of coffee and a piece of Sachertorte.

Salzburg's gastronomical offer

Linzer Gasse

The former centre of tradtional craftmanship and artistry Linzer Gasse leads along the Salzach river embankment and past the city hall to Salzburg Cathedral at Franziskanergasse. On your way there, you will discover beautiful historic buildings, countless small stores and rustic inns inviting you to sit down and take a break.

city squares and streets worth visiting

Hohensalzburg Fortress & Funicular

Visit Hohensalzburg Fortress, one of Europe's largest strongholds. The fortress is over 900 years old and was not only used for defense purposes but also served as a residence for the Prince Archbishop, as a military barrack and as a prison. In 1892, the funicular took its first passengers to Hohensalzburg.

other popular sights in Salzburg

Parks & recreation

Enjoy the amazing spectacle created by the trick fountains at Hellbrunn Palace Park, the centrepiece of the pompous renaissance complex. Or look for the hedge theatre at Mirabell Gardens, the famous baroque Lustgarten (pleasure garden) in the city centre.

more recreational spots in Salzburg

Shopping

The historic old town is home to a wide range of stores: from traditional custome stores over craft workshops to traditional bakeries and patisseries, there is everything you might possibly wish for. Try the original Salzburger Mozartkugel (Mozart Ball) and other sweet delicacies at Konditorei Fürst in the city centre.

other traditional businesses in Salzburg