Tours and Vacations to Salzburg, Austria

Discover Salzburg's Wonders

Dreaming spires, green hills and romantic gardens – Salzburg is a popular vacation destination for millions of travelers from all over the world. With a tourist-per-capita ratio higher than Venice or Florence, Salzburg is among the busiest places in Europe all year round. Salzburg means “salt castle”, referring to its massive fortresses and the stunning white gold from the mountains in the South. You can easily tour the city's magnificent baroque town center, rated as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site, by strolling along its charming alleyways. A classic music festival, the city's most famous son Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, and the heart-warming musical "The Sound of Music," have contributed to Salzburg's fame and popularity among music and travel enthusiasts alike.

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Description

Salzburg was originally known as Juvavum, a trading stop on one of the Roman Empire’s most important routes. It declined during hard times after the Goths’ attack on Rome, and as the western part of the empire declined, so did Salzburg. All that remained was a small village. In 696 AD the city was revived. Bishop Rupert was so fond of the area’s beauty that he re-named it Salzburg after the river Salzach and made it an Episcopal See. His successors, the bishops Wolf Dietrich, Markus Sittikusand, and Paris Lodron, were instrumental in creating the Salzburg we know today, especially its majestic Baroque churches, palaces, and castles. Most of the cultural treasures, including the Altstadt (the Old Town) and the Hohensalzburg fortress, are in the western part of the city known as Salzachufer. One of the world’s most outstanding geniuses, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, was born here in 1756. His place of birth, Hagenauer Haus, still stands to this day. After World War II, Salzburg became one of Austria’s most important commercial centres as well as one of its largest tourist destinations. One of the major reasons was the 1964 film, "The Sound of Music".

Useful information

Population:

568,468 (2022)

Currency:

Euro, 1€ = 100 cents

Emergency Info:

Emergency: 112
Police: 133
Medical: 144

Opening Hours:

Most shops in Salzburg are open from 8 am to 6 pm, but close for 1-2 hours during lunch. Saturday opening hours are usually from 8 am to noon, many are open on Sundays too.

Events

Jazz & The City

The Jazz & The City is a music festival held over five days, which takes place at rather out-of-the-ordinary venues that include manufacturing businesses, churches, and hotels, along with bars and cafés. Performers include international artists and newcomers. Aside from jazz, the program also features electronic music.

Mozart Week

Second only to the Summer Festival in preeminence, Mozart Week is one of the major musical highlights in Salzburg. Since 1956, the Mozarteum Foundation has hosted this festival on and around 27 January, Mozart’s birthday, providing a stage for Austrian and international artists and musicians.

Salzburg Advent Singing

A deeply rooted vocal and musical legacy, Alpine melodies and traditions: this is what Salzburg Advent Singing in the Grosses Festspielhaus is all about. Over 150 musicians, actors and child performers conjure up a perfect Christmas atmosphere for the public to enjoy. Similar events in and around Salzburg include Salzburger Hirtenadvent and Original Salzburg Advent.

Salzburg Christmas Markets

Numerous Advent markets during the run-up to Christmas draw visitors from near and far to the City of Mozart. The most famous of these include the Christkindlmarkt on Cathedral and Residenzplatz squares, along with Advent Magic at Hellbrunn, which is particularly popular with families, and the Advent Market on Mirabellplatz.

Salzburg Culture Days

First-class performances and concerts are on the program of Culture Days, which is organized by the Salzburg Cultural Society. This music festival is famous for its Classical performances as well as its embrace of experimentation, not shying away from exciting mixtures of genres including hip-hop and hits from the world of musicals.

Salzburg Easter Festival

Since being founded by Herbert von Karajan in 1967, the Easter Festival has been an integral component of the Salzburg events calendar. Providing a complement to the Salzburg Festival during the summer months, in this case, the primary focus is on opera. The Easter Festival begins on the Saturday before Palm Sunday and lasts until Easter Monday.

Salzburg Festival

Established in 1920, the Salzburg Festival is a renowned celebration of music and drama, which graces the summer season for a duration of five weeks, beginning in late July.

Salzburg Whitsun Festival

In addition to the Easter- and Summer Festivals, Salzburg has also featured the Whitsun Festival since 1973. In this case, Herbert von Karajan’s original idea was to give those people who had not been able to obtain tickets for the Easter Festival an opportunity to listen to acclaimed international orchestras between Whit Saturday and Whit Monday.

Do & See

Altstadt

The majority of Salzburg's tourist attractions can be found in Altstadt, the Old Town. However, the charm of the area itself is, perhaps, the biggest draw of all. Altstadt is a recognised UNESCO world heritage site that brims with quaint squares, graceful fountains, Baroque churches, charming medieval structures, wrought iron signs, and much more.

Festung Hohensalzburg

Perched atop the Festungsberg at an elevation of 506 metres, Hohensalzburg Fortress stands as an expansive medieval stronghold. Commissioned by the prince-archbishops of Salzburg, this grand fortress spans an impressive length of 250 metres and a width of 150 metres, making it one of Europe's largest medieval castles. Ascend to Hohensalzburg Fortress via the cableway and be treated to awe-inspiring vistas. To the north, the city reveals its array of church spires, while to the south, the majestic Alps paint a breathtaking backdrop.

Haus der Natur

Haus der Natur is a vast and interactive science and natural history museum, complete with an aquarium and reptile zoo. Widely regarded as one of Central Europe's most captivating aquariums, it boasts over 40 display pools that offer a mesmerizing glimpse into the enchanting underwater realm. If you're lucky, you may even witness the feeding of the reef sharks during your visit.

Mozart's Birthplace

Mozart’s family lived on the 3rd floor of the "Hagenauer Haus" at Getreidegasse no. 9 for 26 years, from 1747 until 1773. On the 27th of January 1756, it became the birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, their most famous son. The building was named after its owner, a friend of the Mozart family, the tradesman and spice emporium owner Johann Lorenz Hagenauer.

Salzburg Cathedral

Standing as a testament to Baroque architecture from the seventeenth century, this cathedral is a breathtaking gem in Salzburg. Adorned with a majestic dome and twin towers, it imprints a distinctive and awe-inspiring mark on the city's skyline. Uncover the cathedral's hidden treasures firsthand as you explore its secrets tied to the seven bells and three entrance doors. Upon closer inspection, you may even stumble upon 370-year-old graffiti etched into the marble portal, adding an intriguing historical dimension to its splendour.

Salzburg Festival

Every summer, the Salzburg Festival transforms the city of Mozart into a gigantic stage showcasing opera, theatre, and concerts of the utmost excellence. Spanning five weeks, the renowned Festival unveils a diverse program of performances across multiple venues. Among the most iconic locations are the main festival hall, the historic Felsenreitschule, the esteemed House for Mozart, and the illustrious Domplatz Square, where the legendary morality play 'Everyman' comes to life.

SchafbergBahn (Schafberg Railway)

The SchafbergBahn, the steepest cog railway in Austria, takes you from St. Wolfgang to the top of the 1783-metre-tall Schafberg. In just 35 minutes, the SchafbergBahn climbs 1190 metres and makes it possible for you to enjoy breathtaking 360° panoramas of the mountains and lakes of the Salzkammergut. With its striking summit, the Schafberg is one of the most scenic mountains in Austria, treating visitors to enchanting views along with numerous opportunities for hiking and refreshments.

Wolfgangsee Ferries

Around 50 km from Salzburg, in the middle of the idyllic Salzkammergut, glistening Lake Wolfgangsee awaits you. The fleet operated by WolfgangseeSchifffahrt shuttles back and forth across the water between the picturesque towns of St. Wolfgang, St. Gilgen, and Strobl, putting this magical region right at your fingertips. For an especially beautiful excursion experience, combine a cruise on the Wolfgangsee ferries with a ride on the historic SchafbergBahn cog railway in St. Wolfgang.

Dining

Auerhahn

Around twenty years ago, this inn was transformed into an immensely popular, award-winning restaurant. Consistent quality, honest hospitality, and an eye for detail have ensured the Auerhahn is in great demand with its many regular customers in Salzburg. The restaurant's menu showcases a delightful blend of traditional Austrian dishes, including classics like Viennese Schnitzel and Beef Roast with onions in a rich gravy, as well as modern Austrian cuisine infused with Mediterranean influences.

Augustiner Bräu

Augustiner Bräu is the largest brewery tavern in all of Austria and boasts an enchanting beer garden surrounded by lush greenery. Guests queue up for a beer in the brewery, which is served straight from wooden beer barrels, while hungry visitors stroll up and down the 'Schmankerlgang' hallway to choose from a wide range of typical fare at the various kiosks.

Augustiner Braugasthof Krimpelstätter

Since 1548, Krimpelstätter has remained true to its traditional philosophy: 'Beer needs a home.' Typical down-to-earth Salzburg cuisine, hearty hospitality, and a homely atmosphere are what every guest can expect at what is probably the most convivial brewery tavern and restaurant in Salzburg.

Bärenwirt

Bärenwirt has been open for business since 1663. It’s a tavern restaurant with all the traditional features no guest would wish to do without. It is well-known for serving a typical, traditional spit-roasted chicken, bread dumplings, and other Austrian culinary classics in a woodsy, old-world setting.

Die Weisse

Die Weisse is a renowned brewery restaurant and bar that has stood the test of time. Located just a short walk from the centre of Salzburg, it is a favourite among locals and visitors alike. The establishment is particularly well-known for its own signature weissbier, aptly named 'die Weisse'. Guests can unwind and soak up the vibrant atmosphere in the beer garden, basking in the shade while relishing generous and satisfying dishes.

Esszimmer

Esszimmer is a Michelin-starred restaurant that offers a compact menu of inventive and flavourful Austrian cuisine. The vibrant and inviting atmosphere of the restaurant is enhanced by its yellow-hued room, adorned with a cosy fireplace.

Gasthof Schloss Aigen

Dating back to 1402, Schloss Aigen is a castle located in Aigen, which includes a church, a park, and a restaurant. The restaurant features traditional Austrian cuisine with modern touches and is especially famous for its daily selection of freshly prepared dishes made from locally sourced organic beef — don't miss the opportunity to sample their diverse preparations of boiled beef. To add to the experience, guests can enjoy the charming ambience of the interior courtyard terrace, surrounded by sweet chestnut trees.

Restaurant zum Eulenspiegel

Located facing Mozart’s birth house in the heart of Salzburg, Zum Eulenspiegel has been a unique feature of the old part of Salzburg for over 680 years. It serves traditional Austrian cuisine in a rustic and cosy ambience. Several dishes are still pan-fried with melted butter just like grandma used to do.

Cafés

Café Bazar

Nestled on the right bank of the river Salzach, with a fantastic view of Salzburg's city centre, Café Bazar is a historic café, which since its very first days has been a favourite gathering place for artists, poets, and thinkers. Marlene Dietrich, Max Reinhardt, and the legendary founder of the Salzburg Festival, Hugo von Hoffmannsthal all have sought solace within its walls throughout the years. With a charming space that includes a terrace, Café Bazar provides a delightful setting to enjoy a wide range of beverages, as well as indulge in their tempting selection of cakes and classic pastry desserts.

Café Classic

Located in Mozart's world-famous former home, Café Classic is a charming and cosy coffee house that offers a delightful blend of local and international cuisine. Whether you're in the mood for a comforting cup of coffee or craving delectable pastries, Café Classic has got you covered. With its prime location and warm ambiance, the café provides a unique opportunity to indulge in culinary delights while being surrounded by the legacy of one of the world's greatest composers.

Cafe Fingerlos

Cafe Fingerlos is renowned all over Salzburg, not least for its range of bountiful breakfasts. The in-house sweet pastry bakery has lots of special treats for customers with a sweet tooth. The pleasant outdoor courtyard seating at the heart of the idyllic Andräviertel area of Salzburg is a great place to let the time drift by.

Cafe Konditorei Fürst

The home of Fürst Confectioneries is well-known in Salzburg and still produces the world-famous 'Original Salzburger Mozartkugeln', chocolate-coated marzipan balls by hand. The café is just a stone’s throw from Salzburg’s Cathedral and can offer guests a delicious cup of coffee on the wonderful patio during a well-earned break. There is also a large collection of typical Salzburg pastries and steam-baked desserts. Attractively wrapped Mozartkugel marzipan balls make a wonderful gift for your nearest and dearest.

Café Sacher at Hotel Sacher

The name says it all. Pastry shops all over the world bake the famous Sacher cakes, but this is the place to try the original. It is worth noting that this is only a branch of the famous hotel in Vienna, but the recipe is the same.

Bars & Nightlife

Monkeys

Monkeys is a cosy café and a bar down by the picturesque River Salzach. It’s the perfect place to meet up whether you crave a glass of fine wine, a handcrafted cocktail, or a night filled with dancing. During the summer months, Monkeys offers wonderful sunsets and a splendid view of Fortress Hohensalzburg.

Shamrock

Shamrock is a popular Irish pub serving up a vast selection of beers and whiskeys along with pizzas, baguettes, and nachos. As you indulge in your favourite beverage, enjoy the lively ambience created by their daily live music performances. And for sports enthusiasts, Shamrock provides live broadcasts of Austrian and international football matches. So whether you're looking for an authentic Irish pub experience, a place to catch the latest football action, or simply a spot to unwind with your friends, Shamrock is the place to be.

Steinterrasse

The Steinterrasse rooftop bar on top of the Hotel Stein offers a breathtaking panoramic view across the city of Salzburg. Enjoy a cocktail or a glass of fine wine and soak up the sunset from high above the city.

Watzmann Cultbar

The Watzmann in Salzburg is particularly well known for its wonderful garden in which guests can unwind under palm trees on a balmy summer evening. You’re sure to find your favourite cocktail on the comprehensive drinks list.

Shopping

Der Grünmarkt

Located next to the Collegiate Church on Universitätsplatz, the colourful Grünmarkt (Green Market) has been a bustling gathering place since 1857. Every day, except on Sundays and public holidays, you can browse here and find almost everything you desire — from fresh bread and baked goods to meat and fish, as well as an abundance of fruits, vegetables, and even wooden toys.

Designer Outlet Salzburg

Your favourite prestigious designer labels from 30% to 70% less — just opposite Salzburg's airport. Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere in an indoor shopping centre with cafés and restaurants, a children‘s play area, free parking, and more than 100 brands. From iconic fashion brands to sports brands to high-street favourites, the centre offers something for everyone.

Kirchtag

For over 100 years, the Kirchtag family has upheld the artistry of umbrella making, producing stylish and individually crafted pieces in the heart of Getreidegasse. They also cater to the demand for unique and personalised umbrellas, offering customisation options such as matching ties, golden bonnet embroidery, and wedding umbrellas. In addition to umbrellas, their product range encompasses a wide selection of garden umbrellas, sun shades, leather goods, bags, gloves, and walking sticks, serving both functional and fashionable purposes.

Knopferlmayer

The gentile charm of the display windows looking out onto Rathausplatz can hardly begin to betray the cornucopia of treasures within. The Mayer family has ruled over an emporium for handicraft utensils, decorative lace borders, and buttons for almost 250 years — the latter product being of significance above and beyond its place in the company’s name. Countless organised boxes contain an immense number and variety of buttons, probably unrivalled within and far beyond the borders of Austria.

Lederhaus Schliesselberger

Situated on the historic Lederergasse Lane, 'Lederhaus Schliesselberger' is a leather goods shop with a rich legacy. As a family-owned business since 1422, it has stood the test of time, preserving the artistry and craftsmanship of leatherworking. Originally established as a tannery, Lederhaus Schliesselberger played a pivotal role in the dyeing of leather until the turn of the 20th century. With the finest materials and meticulous attention to detail, they produced high-quality leather that garnered admiration far and wide. As the years passed, the focus shifted towards selling the finished leather to cater to the evolving needs of the community. For seven decades, the skilled artisans of Lederhaus Schliesselberger set up shop in the Maxglan area, dedicating themselves to the production of exceptional leather goods. Today, Lederhaus Schliesselberger proudly offers a diverse portfolio of leather goods and travel cases. Beyond their own creations, the shop also trades in a wide range of leather, furs, and a variety of footwear supplies.

Salzburger Heimatwerk

Since 1946, Salzburger Heimatwerk has been dedicated to preserving and promoting the region's rich folk culture through costumes, customs, and handicrafts. Housed under the majestic vaults of the historic New Residenz, their impressive tailoring and dressmaking workshop creates exceptional dirndls and traditional costumes. They exclusively utilise the finest hand-woven and hand-printed fabrics, sourced from local artisans, to highlight their artistry and expertise. Their diverse selection, ranging from luxurious silk to textured linen, showcases the variety of materials used in traditional costume-making. In addition, Heimatwerk takes pride in presenting exquisite designer products and stylish leather clothing, adding an elegant touch to their collection.

Sporer Likör- & Punschmanufaktur

Built in 1407, the narrowest building in the Getreidegasse, next to what is now the Blaue Gans art hotel, is home to Sporer’s specialist wine and spirits shop. It was founded in 1903 and is now run by the third and fourth generations of the Sporer family. Popular classics include the 'Hausmischung', made according to family recipes handed down across generations, a fine herb liqueur, and an orange punch concentrate made according to grandmother’s own recipe dating back to 1927. Connoisseurs appreciate the selection of wines chosen by certified sommelier Michael Sporer.

Tourist Information

Passport / Visa

Austria can be visited visa-free for up to 90 days by citizens of most European countries, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Malaysia, Israel, UAE and most countries in America. If you are unsure whether or not you need to apply for a visa, we recommend contacting the embassy or consulate in your country. International (non-Schengen) travellers need a passport that is valid for at least 3 months after the end of their intended trip in order to enter the Schengen zone. Citizens of Schengen countries can travel without a passport but must have a valid ID with them during their stay.

Salzburg Airport (SZG)

Salzburg Airport (SZG) is situated 4 km away from the German border and 4 km from the city centre of Salzburg. Convenient public buses operate on a regular schedule, connecting Salzburg Airport, the main train station, and the city centre. Bus number 2 runs every 15 to 20 minutes throughout the week, providing transportation between Salzburg Main Station and the airport. On Sundays and public holidays, the bus frequency is every 20 minutes. The journey typically takes approximately 23 minutes. For those preferring taxi services, both Salzburg's main railway station and the airport terminal offer dedicated taxi stands. The travel time from the airport to the railway station is around 15 to 20 minutes.

Public Transport

Salzburg takes pride in its environmentally friendly public transportation system, which features electric trolleys and buses. The trolleys operate every 10 minutes during the day, while regular buses generally come every 15 minutes. During the summer holidays from July to August, a special timetable is implemented. At night, NachtStern and Bustaxi services are available. To save on fares, it is advisable to purchase single tickets or 24-hour tickets for the central zone in advance. These tickets can be bought from numerous kiosks ("Trafiken") throughout Salzburg or ticket machines. The 24-hour ticket offers great value as it grants unlimited travel within the entire city. If you plan to stay in Salzburg for more than 4 days, purchasing a weekly pass is highly recommended. Remember to validate all advance tickets on the first trip in the vehicle.

Taxi

Hailing taxis in Salzburg is easy, but they are expensive. They may not be needed, as most sights are within walking distance of each other. However, if you still require one, taxi ranks can be found all around the town centre. They can also be ordered by phone (+43 662 8111), via an app (Salzburger Taxi 81-11), or online.

Electricity

240 V, 50 Hz

Pharmacy

Pharmacies have alternating opening hours during nights and weekends. Addresses are posted at pharmacies. General opening hours: Mon–Fri 8am–12:30pm / 2:30–6pm, Sat 8am–noon.

Post

Stamps are available from kiosks and tobacconists. The post offices are usually open from Mon–Fri 8am–noon, and 2pm–8pm.

Telephone

Country code: +43 Area code: 662

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time to visit Salzburg?

The best time to visit Salzburg is during the spring months of April to June and the fall months of September to October, when the weather is mild and the tourist crowds are smaller. The summer months are popular for festivals, while winter offers a charming atmosphere with Christmas markets.

What are the must-see attractions in Salzburg?

Salzburg is renowned for its beautiful Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the stunning Hohensalzburg Fortress, and the birthplace of Mozart. Don't miss Mirabell Palace and Gardens, and take a stroll along Getreidegasse, the city's famous shopping street.

How many days should I spend in Salzburg?

A stay of two to three days is ideal to explore Salzburg's main attractions, including the Old Town, museums, and nearby sites like Hellbrunn Palace. This allows enough time to enjoy the local culture and possibly take a day trip to the surrounding countryside.

What local dishes should I try in Salzburg?

In Salzburg, try traditional Austrian dishes like Wiener Schnitzel, Salzburger Nockerl, and Kasnocken. For dessert, indulge in a slice of Sachertorte or an apple strudel. Pair your meal with a local beer or a glass of Austrian wine.

How do I get around Salzburg?

Salzburg is a compact city, and many attractions are within walking distance in the Old Town. For longer distances, the city's efficient public transportation system, including buses and trams, is convenient. Renting a bike is also a popular option for exploring.

What are some popular day trips from Salzburg?

Popular day trips from Salzburg include visiting the picturesque village of Hallstatt, exploring the Salzkammergut lake district, or taking a tour to the Eagle's Nest in Berchtesgaden, Germany. These destinations offer stunning natural beauty and historical significance.

Where is the best area to stay in Salzburg?

Staying in the Altstadt (Old Town) is ideal for first-time visitors, as it offers easy access to major attractions, restaurants, and shops. For a quieter experience, consider staying in the Neustadt area, which is still close to the city center but offers a more local atmosphere.

Trips

Jewels of Austria by Rail

Austria A La Carte

Germany Switzerland and Austria Yuletide Magic

Croatia Slovenia Austria and Germanys Enchanting Christmas Markets

An Enchanting Christmas in Austria

Vienna Salzburg and Munich Alpine Escapade

Jewels of Austria by Rail

Austria A La Carte

Germany Switzerland and Austria Yuletide Magic

Croatia Slovenia Austria and Germanys Enchanting Christmas Markets

An Enchanting Christmas in Austria

Vienna Salzburg and Munich Alpine Escapade

Jewels of Austria by Rail

Austria A La Carte

Germany Switzerland and Austria Yuletide Magic

Croatia Slovenia Austria and Germanys Enchanting Christmas Markets

An Enchanting Christmas in Austria

Vienna Salzburg and Munich Alpine Escapade

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