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Free Walking Tour Salzburg

Free walking tour Salzburg is one of the best ways to visit the beautiful city of Salzburg in Austria, known for its baroque architecture, stunning mountain views, and rich musical heritage. The city was the birthplace of Mozart and is home to numerous historical landmarks, including the Salzburg Cathedral and the Mirabell Palace. Visitors can also enjoy the charming narrow streets and quaint coffeehouses, as well as the lively local markets and street performers. Whether you are a history buff, a music lover, or just looking for a peaceful escape, Salzburg has something for everyone.

General information

Meet your guide at the Mirabell Palace

11:00 hrs / 18:00 hrs

Tip only basis

Please remember to check your ticket after booking to ensure you don’t miss any updates from your guide.

Free Walking Tour Salzburg – Itinerary

Free walking tour Salzburg will start at the Mirabell Palace, where you can admire its beautiful gardens and fountains.

From there, you will continue to the impressive St. Peter’s Abbey, a medieval monastery that was once a center of learning and culture.

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You will also see the iconic Salzburg Cathedral, with its towering spires and beautiful stained glass windows.

Finally, you will visit the historic Old Town, with its narrow cobblestone streets, picturesque squares, and historic buildings that have been beautifully preserved. The tour will end at the stunning Residenzplatz, surrounded by impressive buildings, monuments, and fountains.

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FREE WALKING TOUR SALZBURG - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go

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Introduction

Welcome to Salzburg, Austria! This charming city, known for its beautiful architecture, rich history, and captivating culture, is best explored on foot. Walking tours offer an immersive and intimate way to discover Salzburg’s hidden gems, historic sites, and breathtaking landscapes. In this blog post, we will guide you through the top walking tours in Salzburg and provide you with all the information you need to make the most of your visit.

1. Old Town Walking Tour

The Old Town of Salzburg is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-see for any visitor. This walking tour will take you through the narrow medieval streets, baroque squares, and iconic landmarks of the city. Some highlights of the Old Town Walking Tour include:

• Mirabell Palace and Gardens
• Mozart’s Birthplace
• Getreidegasse (Shopping street)
• The Salzburg Cathedral
• The Hohensalzburg Fortress
• The Marionette Theater

Guided tours by knowledgeable locals are available, providing historical insights and anecdotes. Alternatively, you can opt for a self-guided tour using maps or smartphone apps.

2. Sound of Music Tour

Salzburg is famous for being the setting of the legendary movie “The Sound of Music.” This walking tour allows you to relive the magic of the movie as you explore the filming locations and learn interesting behind-the-scenes facts. Highlights of the Sound of Music Tour include:

• The Nonnberg Abbey
• Mirabell Gardens (Do-Re-Mi scene)
• The Leopoldskron Palace
• St. Peter’s Cemetery
• The Hellbrunn Palace

Don’t forget to sing along to the movie’s iconic songs as you visit each location!

3. Salzburg Lakes District Walking Tour

If you’re looking for a more serene and nature-filled experience, the Salzburg Lakes District Walking Tour is perfect for you. This tour takes you outside the city to explore the picturesque lakes and mountains surrounding Salzburg. Some of the lakes you will encounter include:

• Wolfgangsee

Enjoy the stunning alpine landscapes, visit charming villages, and take in the crystal-clear waters of the lakes. Make sure to bring your camera, as photo opportunities in this region are abundant.

4. Salzburg Beer Walking Tour

Beer lovers rejoice! Salzburg has a rich brewing tradition, and this walking tour explores the city’s best breweries and beer gardens. As you stroll through the city, you’ll have the opportunity to taste a variety of local brews and learn about Salzburg’s beer history. Some highlights of the Salzburg Beer Walking Tour include:

• Augustiner Bräu
• Schlossbrauerei Hellbrunn
• Mullner Bräu

Experience the unique flavors of Salzburg’s craft beers and discover why beer has been such an integral part of the city’s culture for centuries.

5. Hidden Gems Walking Tour

If you’re a traveler who seeks off-the-beaten-path adventures, the Hidden Gems Walking Tour will unveil Salzburg’s best-kept secrets. Explore lesser-known neighborhoods, discover hidden courtyards, and stumble upon local treasures. This tour will take you to places such as:

• Linzer Gasse
• Riedenburg District
• Kapuzinerberg
• Vogelweideplatz Market

This is the perfect tour for those who want to experience Salzburg like a local and avoid the tourist crowds.

Salzburg’s walking tours offer an immersive and enriching experience for visitors of all interests. Whether you’re a history buff, a music enthusiast, a nature lover, a beer connoisseur, or an adventurer seeking hidden gems, there is a walking tour in Salzburg that will capture your heart. So put on your comfortable shoes, grab a map or join a guided tour, and get ready to explore the enchanting streets of Salzburg, one step at a time.

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Salzburg for free: how to live it up in the city of Mozart and Maria for nothing

Jul 17, 2022 • 7 min read

One of the most atmospheric free things you can do in Salzburg is to walk up Nonnberg Abbey © Jonathon Stokes / Lonely Planet

Salzburg can feel terribly grand, with its parade of palaces and squares, where the prince-archbishops once wafted around and horse-drawn carriages clip-clop past evoking the glory days of the Hapsburg Empire. So it comes as a (very pleasant) surprise that you can see so much of the city without spending a single cent.

Mozart symphonies, skipping Marias (as in The Sound of Music ), gorgeously manicured parks, public art, abbeys, cathedral concerts, jazz jam sessions and wild canal swims – time your visit right and you can tank up on culture and the outdoors in Salzburg for nothing. And, frankly, you’ll have a much better time than if you’d stuck to the usual tick-and-click tourist trail. Here’s our guide to seeing the city for free.

Get your Mozart and Maria fix

You can’t move for Mozart and Maria in Salzburg. And while it’s tempting to take an official tour of the composer’s hood and The Sound of Music film locations, you can see plenty without spending a single cent.

Piece together your own self-guided walking tour – GPSMYCITY has a free Mozart Walking Tour to get you started, which covers biggies like Mozartplatz , Residenz , where he gave his first court concert at the tender age of six, and the Dom where he was baptized in 1756.

If The Sound of Music is more your style (and, let’s face it, who doesn’t love a good mountain and yodeling nun), you can easily devise your own tour of the film locations. Top of your list should be stops like Benedictine convent Stift Nonnberg , where the nuns waltzed on their way to mass, Residenzplatz where a fountain-splashing Maria belts out  "I Have Confidence" and the fortress-facing Mirabell gardens where she teaches the kids to sing "Do-Re-Mi". 

Spend time outdoors

With uplifting views of the Alps and a shockingly turquoise river running right through it, Salzburg is just as much about the outdoors as the urban. Its gardens are fabulous and free, from the sculpture-dotted parterres, rose gardens and leafy arbors of Schloss Mirabell (incidentally the best vantage point for photos of the fortress-topped Altstadt) to the Volksgarten, with its summer lido and beach .

Rent a bike and you can pedal gleefully along the riverbanks, mountains looming on horizon, on the 4.5km route to Schloss Hellbrunn , where it’s free to romp around the sculpture-strewn palace gardens, and sing your heart out at The Sound of Music pavilion of "Sixteen Going on Seventeen" fame.

See the city from on high

Salzburg is at its most heart-stoppingly beautiful from above. One of the most memorable ways to see the city away from the tourist masses is to hike above its skyline of elegant rooftops, spires and domes. Puff up the Nonnbergstiege to Stift Nonnberg for an on-high walk to Festung Hohensalzburg , with dress-circle views of the Alstadt.

You can easily devote an afternoon to wandering the 540m peak of Mönchsberg , whose cliffs rise above the city like theater curtains. The mountain (locals used to bigger things call it a "hill") is wooded and criss-crossed by walking trails. A highly scenic hike leads 4km from Stift Nonnberg to the historic monastery-founded brewery Augustiner Bräustübl , where you can rest up with a cold foamy one under the chestnut trees.

Over the river on the Right Bank is the forested, 640m-high hump of Kapuzinerberg , which frames the Altstadt like a postcard. Paths twist past Way of the Cross chapels to the Capuchin abbey at the top. Despite the glorious views, it’s rarely busy – hence the reason it is still home to a colony of nimble-footed chamois, which you might spot if you’re lucky (and quiet).

Go for a canal swim

Flowing through the city since the Middle Ages, with its network of hidden underground waterways, Salzburg’s Almkanal provides a splash of history. In summer, you can cycle or walk to Schloss Leopoldskron (the palatial backdrop for the lake scene in The Sound of Music ) for a bracing swim in the canal’s chilly turquoise waters. If you happen to have a board handy, you can join surfers to ride the canal’s wave just north of Weidenstrasse bridge.

Swan around a palace

Schloss Mirabell is fantasy Salzburg in a regal nutshell. Prince-Archbishop Wolf Dietrich von Raitenau had the palace built in 1606 to woo his lovely mistress, Salome Alt, who went on to bear him 15 children. In the 18th century, Hapsburg "starchitect" Johann Lukas von Hildebrandt worked his baroque magic here and you can take a peek at his handiwork for free whenever the palace is open. The scene-stealer is the Marmorsaal (Marble Hall), a riotous feast of marble, carved and gilded stucco and weighty chandeliers.

The marble Engeltreppe (Angel Staircase) sweeping up to the hall is festooned with playful, plump-cheeked cherubs. Legend has it that you will be blessed with good fortune in your marriage if you slap one on the bottom…

Marvel at holy wonders

One glance at the spires and domes encrusting Salzburg’s skyline tells you that this is a place built high and mighty on faith. And one way to really feel the city’s spirit is by devising your own mini tour of its places of worship. Kick off at Salzburg’s cathedral, or Dom , the cherry on the Altstadt’s historic cake. It’s free to see this masterpiece of baroque art, with its immense copper dome, nave adorned with Arsenio Mascagni’s ceiling frescos recounting the Passion of Christ, and bronze font where Mozart and Silent Night lyricist Joseph Mohr were baptized.

Catch the cathedral at its most atmospheric by attending 10am Sunday mass, when the organ is cranked into action for a free concert of Mozart’s sacred music. The composer was once an organist here.

From here, it’s just a couple of minutes’ stroll to Stift St Peter – founded by a Frankish missionary called Rupert around 700 AD, this is the oldest abbey-church and monastery complex in the German-speaking world. It’s free to visit the church, which bombards you with baroque ornament, including eye-catching altarpieces by Martin Johann Schmidt. Among the cemetery’s filigree wrought-iron crosses, you’ll find the graves of Austrian classical composer Michael Haydn (1737–1806), opera singer Richard Mayr (1877–1935) and Salzburg confectioner Paul Fürst (1856–1941).

By far one of the most atmospheric free things you can do in Salzburg is to walk up the Nonnbergstiege to Stift Nonnberg as the rising sun lights up the city’s rooftops and the hair’s-on-end sound of nuns singing Gregorian chants drifts out of the 1300-year-old Benedictine convent.

Explore public art

Art is not just confined to museums in Salzburg. Bridging the gap between culture and the outdoors and shining a light on often overlooked areas of the city, there is a rich stash of public art dotted all over town, which won’t cost you a thing to admire.

The Walk of Modern Art should be high on your agenda, spotlighting specially commissioned installations and sculptures that have Salzburg’s cultural identity as a common thread. Here attention-grabbers include James Turrell’s exposed-to-the-elements Skyspace atop Mönchsberg, Stephan Balkenhol’s giant man-on-a-golden-globe Sphaera on Kapitelplatz, and Anselm Kiefer’s winged book stack The Language of Birds at Chiemseehof.

In the warmer months, roam the well-worn cobbles of Steingasse , the main trade route to Italy in the Middle Ages, to reach Schloss Arenberg. Built for the lordly prince-archbishops in the 14th century, the palace’s beautiful grounds conceal the Würth Sculpture Garden , brimming with contemporary, thought-provoking artworks.

Feel the festive groove

As a vivacious, music-loving, culture-mad city, Salzburg has a jam-packed calendar of events, some of which are free. In summer, brass bands reverberate through the Altstadt when Vielklang comes to town, and Kapitelplatz gets crowds into the swing of the Salzburg Festival showing opera for free on a big screen . Kapitelplatz is also the castle-crowned backdrop for free movie nights at Sternenkino , held over two weeks from late June to early July.

Mid October brings Jazz & The City , with jazz acts – from rising stars to big names – hitting venues all over the city, from baroque churches to beer halls. But if you can’t make it then, you can catch free jam sessions every Tuesday at Jazzit .

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The Best Free Self-Guided Walking Tour of Salzburg, the city of the Sound of Music

Salzburg  is not only a historical and picturesque baroque utopia but also the setting for the classic film The Sound of Music. Any place deemed charming enough to be the backdrop for such an extraordinary film is undoubtedly worth your time. Seeing the actual locations where this quintessential movie was made is a treat for cinema lovers and music aficionados.

Hedge Theatre

Royal residence.

Mirabell Gardens

The best place to start your walking tour is in the  Mirabell Gardens . Before arriving, stop by any local cafe or bakery to grab a few snacks and a hot (or cold) cup of coffee to enjoy while inside. Here, you’ll be able to sit and enjoy your Austrian breakfast in one of the most elegantly designed royal gardens in Europe. The park gates open at 8 am, so we are sure not to arrive before then. Mirabell Gardens is a serene oasis that has long been the secret gateway for the Austrian aristocracy.

The palace that served as the garden backdrop was built in 1606 for Prince-Archbishop  Wolf Dietrich von Raitenau . He had the heavenly white mansion designed for the love of his life, Salome. The Prince ensured the gardens were as impressive as the interiors since Salome adored being outdoors. In 1721, after a fire destroyed many buildings,  Prince-Archbishop Franz Anton von Harrach  had it redesigned by the famous Baroque architect  Lukas von Hildebrandt  who integrated all the various structures that were spread out into one self-contained complex. This allowed the gardens to surround the palace and flow alongside it like a river so that no matter where you exited, you were always greeted with lush greenery and brightly coloured flowers.

The Mirabell Gardens are truly a preserved treasure of a bygone age. The Hedge Theater, created between 1704 and 1718, is one of the oldest hedge theatres in the northern Alps and is the same hedge theatre used in the film  The Sound of Music . The Von Trapp children can be seen running through it during the “Doe A Deer” musical number. 

Zwergerlgarten

Another ancient oddity still lingers within this garden is the Zwergerlgarten, or “dwarf garden.” This small alcove is located just up the stairs from the Pegasus statue. Most visitors pass right by it but make sure you make a point to explore. Within this petite corner is a collection of exquisite, yet grotesque, figures of dwarves modelled after actual people who lived in the palace in the 17th century. Back then, it was thought to be good luck to employ a dwarf. The Archbishops of Salzburg adored them so much that he even had their likeness cast into stone. Nowadays, we might look at these statues and feel like they are slightly offensive, but at the time, they were meant to be an honour and were revered by all those who passed by them.

Flowers in the Gardens

The original landscape designer went to great lengths to create a sumptuous structure for the garden beds, which could be seen from the palace and the top of the hillside Fortress. This way, all those around Salzburg could see the greatness that was Mirabell Palace Gardens. The gardens are always changing up their flower designs and colours for guests and locals alike, so there’s consistently something new to discover.

As you circle the perimeter, you’ll notice towering white statues acting as the garden’s guardians. Sculpted by Gerard van Opstal, a skilled artist of classical mythologies from Antwerp, these glorious scenes of lust, triumph and pain, while not as proficient as some pieces from Italy’s Renaissance masters, are nonetheless wonderfully powerful works of art.

Salzach River

As you finish your tour of the Gardens, pass through the Northern Exit, which will lead you towards the Salzach River. Walk southeast along the river’s edge, where you’ll find a pretty pedestrian walkway. This little trail is a great place to admire the cake-topper, pastel baroque houses which dot the riverside. Soon, you’ll reach the Mozartsteg bridge, a great place to stop and watch tourist boat putter by, much as the salt boats would have floated up and down this same river hundreds of years ago. Salzburg’s mines were rich with salt, a hot commodity as early as the 8th century. Salt is the reason the city became wealthy, and as such, gave the town its name. Salzburg means “Salt Castle.”

Mozartplatz

After you get off the bridge, head down to the Mozartplatz or Mozart Square. Mozart Square is named after Salzburg’s most famous resident, you guessed it, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. The statue looming in the middle of the square, dedicated to the legendary composer, was unveiled on September 5, 1842, by sculptor Ludwig Schwanthaler. Although Mozart wasn’t alive to see it, his sons were present as the entire city came together to honour their father’s work. The buildings surrounding Mozartplatz are lovely examples of 16th and 18th-century architecture so take a minute to sit and admire the surroundings.

Residenceplatz

Residence Square is located nearby and comprises the New Residence of the Princes of the Salzburg, the Salzburg Cathedral, various aristocratic townhouses and a dozen famous bakeries and cafes. In the middle of the square stands the centrepiece, the enormous Italian Baroque fountain of Tommaso di Garone. It is one of the most magnificent baroque fonts in Europe. Four horses burst out of a rocky mound, rearing up their legs as water shoots from their mouths. Triton stands upon the rocks, holding up a scalloped upper basin that three dolphins balance atop.

While exploring Residence Square check out the Royal Residence courtyard. Although you can also explore the interior, this might be better left for a more extended stay. From the exterior, you can still see where the Royals would have lived during their time in Salzburg and get a glimpse of their lifestyle in Austria.

Salzburg Cathedral

Next, it’s over the famous  Dom zu Salzburg or Salzburg Cathedra l for some spiritual awakening and awe-inspiring architecture. The first Christian church was built in here Salzburg in 774. The original foundations of that church remain here today, underneath the new DOM. When that first church was built, it was one of the largest sacred buildings in Europe. But in 842, lightning struck it and burned it to the ground. 

History of the Cathedral

In 1181 a late Romanesque structure was restored, but it was also burnt down in 1598. Some say the fire wasn’t an accident but was initiated by the then Prince-Archbishop, Wolf Dietrich, who wanted to build a new church in his preferred style. But his plans were thwarted, and Italian architect Santino Solari oversaw the current design. It was consecrated in 1628 by Archbishop Paris Count Lodron. The Salzburg Cathedral is one of Germany’s best examples of early Baroque architecture. Its imposing Untersberg marble facade is framed between two twin towers with bright green domes. Atop the towers are four statues; Peter and Paul hold a key and a sword, respectively and Salzburg’s two patron saints, Rupert and Virgil, each clasp a salt vessel (the symbol of the city) and a model of the church. 

The church’s exterior has a huge bronze statue of the Virgin Mary, which stands outside to greet visitors. She is flanked by various other expressive characters, and her loving embrace of her son warms your soul on even the coldest day.

Three doors allow you to enter the church, each one illustrating a theme; Faith, Hope and Love. The interior of the church is both minimal and elaborate at the same time. The church’s structure is painted a soothing and peaceful shade of white. Despite the simplistic white paint, ornate stucco designs in baroque shapes are embedded onto the walls, columns, archways and ceiling. We have brightly painted frescos along the roof, their colours sharply contrasted against the white of the rest of the Cathedral.

Near the entrance is a Romanesque font where Mozart was baptized. The font is made entirely of bronze and decorated with reliefs of various biblical saints. Be sure to take a moment to study the magnificent organ. Many of Mozart’s compositions were written for this very instrument. They were initially meant to be played in this very place.

Alter Markt

Now, I bet you’re getting slightly hungry after all this walking. So it’s time to start searching for something to eat. Walk over to the Alter Markt, where you have various options. During the middle ages, farmers from all over the country would come here to sell their goods. The St. Florian Fountain in the middle of the square was built in 1488, with the Salzburg’s coat of arms emblazed. The buildings surrounding the marketplace date back to the middle ages, designed in the old burgher’s style of architecture.

Cafe Tomselli

There are many different cafes to grab a bite at, but if you have a few extra euros to spend and want an exceptional experience try Café Tomaselli. This cafe is over a hundred years old, and Mozart used to come in here to drink, of all things, almond milk. The cafe is full of history and is decorated with old paintings curated by their various owners. The stories this place could tell if only the walls could talk. But this atmosphere comes with a price. If you still want a chance to visit but are short on cash, simply order a coffee and split a simple pastry with a friend.

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Fisch-Krieg Fish Market

If you decide that the Alter Market is too rich for your blood, head to Fisch-Krieg Fish Market. This adorable restaurant along the water is half fish market, half restaurant. All you need to do is pick which variety of fish you’d like, choose how you want it cooked (grilled or fried), and they will serve it up to you alongside one of their many traditional Austrian salads. All their dishes are very reasonably priced, and they have a great taste of traditional Salzburg cuisine. The shop’s interior, with its unique plastic tree growing right up through the floor, is one of those unforgettable touches that will stay in your memory forever. I cannot recommend this place more!

Balkan Grill

Lastly, if you’re looking for something really, really inexpensive that’s just as delicious as it is authentically Austrian, you have to check out the Balkan Grill. Balkan Grill is located at 33 Getreidegasse, one of the city’s most upscale neighbourhoods. They have been serving sausages in this tiny booth for over 50 years, and there is always a line-up. They only have one thing on the menu: a grilled pork sausage covered in your choice of; onions, fresh parsley, and a secret blend of spices served on a white bun with some curry mustard and ketchup. There is something about the fresh parsley that really brightens up the greasy sausage.

Getreidegasse

Once you have sated your hunger, take a few moments to explore Getreidegasse. Getreidegasse, or “grain lane,” is Salzburg’s most prestigious shopping street. It’s most recognizable for its tall and narrow houses, which seem to lean over the sidewalk below.

Ornately designed wrought iron signs hang off the sides of the buildings. These signs were wordless symbols in the middle ages to help citizens who couldn’t read find bakeries, cobblers or butcher shops. The signs have been updated with logos featuring iconic fashion brands, but they have kept up their antique look.

Mozart’s Birthplace

One building worth a second look at is #9 Getreidegasse. This is Mozart’s “Geburtshaus,” or Birthplace. Its golden yellow exterior makes it unmissable as you walk along the street. The Mozart Family lived on the third floor of the “Hagenauer House” from 1747 to 1773. Mozart spent his childhood in Salzburg, developing his incredible musical talent. Inside is a small museum which still holds many objects from the Mozart household and recreations of what the home would have looked like in the 18th century.

Franziskanerkirche

Once you’re finished exploring Getreidegasse, head north, down Wiener-Philharmoniker-Gasse to see the Franciscan Church. The FranciscOnce you’re exploring Getreidegasse, head north, down Wiener-Philharmoniker-Gasse to see the Franciscan Church. The Franciscan Church, or Franziskanerkirche, is the architectural opposite of the Salzburg DOM. Whereas the DOM is bright and white, the Franziskanerkirche is dark and GOTHIC! I love both for different reasons, and both are worth checking out.an Church or Franziskanerkirche is the architectural opposite of the Salzburg DOM. Whereas the DOM is bright and white, the Franziskanerkirche is dark and GOTHIC! I love both for different reasons, and both are worth checking out. 

History of the Franciscan Church

The first church built on these grounds was erected in the 8th century. It was frequently ravaged by fires and rebuilt time after time. The Salzburg middle class of the 15th century was reasonably well off. When their church needed renovation, they gathered up the required funds themselves. They hired the famous architect Hans von Burghausen to design a newer and more magnificent church. His work was a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Throughout the church, you’ll find slender, dark marble columns that reach up to the sky and open into refined rib vaulting, like a pair of hands whose fingers open to the heavens.

St. Peter’s Cemetery

Continue onwards to St. Peter’s Cemetery. St. Peter’s Cemetery is the oldest in Salzburg. Looking at the gravestones, they don’t appear so ancient but take a look behind the headstones, along the rockface, to see where the real history lies. Carved into Mönchsberg are a set of caves which served as catacombs for the earliest settlers. The oldest surviving tombstones inside date back to 1288. If you decide to go inside, you can climb up the 48 steps to see the “Gertrauden Chapel,” which dates back to 1178.

Back on the ground, you can see several crypts flank the nearby church’s exterior. These elegant wrought-iron fences protect the crypts of some of Salzburg’s wealthiest families. These crypts also were the setting for one of the iconic scenes in The Sound of Music when the Von Trapp family was hiding from the Nazis during their daring escape.

Hohensalzburg Castle

To end your walking tour, head to the Mönchsberg funicular, which will take you all the way to the top of the hillside to the crowning glory of Salzburg, the Hohensalzburg Castle.

History of the Castle

The first castle built on this site was raised in 1077 and was little more than four wooden walls. It was made high up on the hills to serve as a lookout post to protect the city against Imperial troops from the Holy Roman Empire.

Over the years, towers were built, stone walls were added to fortify the castle, and the fortress grew in size. Inside the castle, the portrait gallery is the first room you’ll pass through. It’s filled with more than a dozen portraits of all the Prince whose legacy it was to grow the size and strength of this impressive Castle Fortress. Unlike many others across Europe, modernization has not touched this building. Salzburg was never subject to attack, so its historic castle was never destroyed or rebuilt. This treasure of the past is truly a unique experience to walk through.

Inside you’ll get to see some of the furnishings used by the royals who once lived within these walls. Opulent wallpaper, lush bedding and even the most ornate heaters you’ve ever seen. In addition to exploring the life of the royals, there are also various exhibits displaying the might of their army. Armour, weaponry and even medieval torture devices are displayed for viewers to discover.

After exploring the castle, take advantage of the vantage point atop the mountain and walk along the pedestrian path toward the perfect dinner destination. As day turns to dusk, you’ll have a wonderful view of the city’s lights as you make your way toward the Austinger Brau.

Augustiner-Bräu

The Augustiner-Bräu is an old beer hall frequented by locals and tourists alike. If you arrive on a colder night, don’t be surprised if you walk in and think it’s closed (that’s just because all the action is happening downstairs, as the beer garden is only open in the warmer months). Head down the stairs and turn the corner. Any silence you might have experienced upstairs will be broken by laughter and the occasional singing accompanied by the smell of cooking sausages and freshly poured beer. This place is indeed the ideal location to finish your day exploring Salzburg! If you’re lucky and the beer garden is open, you’ll enjoy food and drink beneath a canopy of ancient Austrian trees under the starry sky.

How to Order

But first, you’ll need to know how to serve yourself. Yes, that’s right. There are no waiters here. To get a beer, go to the register and pay for as many drinks as you’d like; they will give you one ticket, which you use to trade in for a stein and another for your beers. Once armed with your stein, hand the barman your drink ticket to fill er’ up! The trade for doing all this yourself? Cheap beer, which tastes great. Once you’re done drinking as much as possible, wash out your stein and place it on the rack for someone else to use.

The food available is a traditional Bavarian fair. Small vendor stalls are located in the basement. They have everything from appetizers to desserts. Perfect for whatever you’re craving! Once you’ve got your food and beer tray, find a table and make some new friends. We witnessed friendly Austrians singing happy birthday to a group of tourists to welcome them into the country.

No doubt this tour has worn you out, but after a few Austrian beers, all you’ll feel is that warm fuzziness from good friends and a beautiful day in a fantastic city.

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Free things to do in Salzburg

Salzburg is the perfect place to explore without paying a penny. It is not only the birthplace of Mozart but also has plenty of free things to do and see, including Salzburg Cathedral, Mirabell Gardens and Hohensalzburg Fortress. It is a great place to visit, even if you are on a budget .

Salzburg is a beautiful city with an impressive history that you can explore for free. It is famous for being the setting for The Sound of Music and many of the locations from the film can be visited.

Salzburg is a great city for families and couples alike. Here are some free things to do in Salzburg, Austria that will not cost you anything.

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Explore Salzburg city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

The old town of Salzburg is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In 1997 the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) declared Salzburg’s old town a world heritage site. The designation ensures that this distinctive architecture will be preserved for future generations to enjoy.

There are statues, churches and palaces available to view for free and everything is within walking distance from each other. You can take your time exploring all there is to see, without having to worry about transportation.

The baroque city of Salzburg enjoys a reputation as one of the Alps’ most beautiful northern cities. The city is very much a tourist destination, but it is not overrun with tourists.

It has a lot to offer on its own merits, and you will be hard-pressed to find another place that feels as authentic and real as Salzburg.

The old town is stunningly beautiful and well worth your time if you have any interest in art or architecture whatsoever.

One of the best parts about Salzburg is that you can get away from the crowds and find your own little slice of heaven.

The Old Town is the perfect place for this. With its cute little shops, cafes, restaurants and bars it has something for everyone.

There are plenty of historic buildings dotted around making it a great place to grab a coffee or beer while sitting outside enjoying some sunshine.

It is a great area to explore and enjoy for free, where you can soak up the culture and atmosphere that the city has to offer.

Free walking tour

Salzburg is a city with rich history and culture. The best way to learn about Salzburg is by taking a free walking tour .

This tour will give you an insight into the historical sites in Salzburg, as well as its heritage. An example of a free walking tour starts at the Spirit of Mozart, one of the most famous artworks in Salzburg.

It also visits other historic sites like Mirabell Palace and Residenzplatz Square. The tour is 1.5 hours long and covers topics such as ‘where was Salzburg founded and why’ and ‘why are there so many Churches in Salzburg’.

If you are interested in learning more about Salzburg and its history, then this free walking tour is highly recommended. The tour is usually conducted by local volunteers who love their city and want to share their passion with others.

Salzburg Card

Salzburg Card is a ticket that gives you free entry to all of the attractions in Salzburg, including the Mozart Residence and the Marionette Museum.

It also gives you discounts and free transportation around the city. You can purchase the cards for 24 hours, 48 hours or 72 hours, depending on the length of your trip and itinerary.

Prices start from 30 euros per person. If you are planning to visit Salzburg during the summer months when the city is packed with tourists, then purchasing a Salzburg Card is highly recommended.

The card itself may not be free but it is a great way to save money during your trip and avoid waiting in line for tickets at various attractions.

Salzburg Museum

This museum is a great place to spend some time, especially if you have kids with you. The exhibits are lighthearted and fun for all ages. The museum has a variety of areas to explore including, Unique Salzburg, The Salzburg Myth, The Panorama Passage and The Art Hall.

The Salzburg Museum is a unique institution within the magnificently restored Neue Residenz, garnering numerous awards as it presents valuable art objects and aesthetic presentations.

Multimedia installations also invite visitors to marvel and learn. This museum has a one-time free admission with the Salzburg card.

Hellbrunn Palace

Built in the 17th century by Prince-Archbishop Markus Sittikus, this palace was primarily used for entertainment purposes. It is now open to the public and offers amazing views.

The gardens are also worth a visit, especially in the summertime. This palace has a one-time free admission with the Salzburg card. The grounds at Hellbrunn Palace are beautiful with scenic gardens that are well worth exploring.

Also popular among visitors are the Trick Fountains, which have been delighting people for centuries with their elaborate displays of water-spouting statues and playful sculptures.

Visits to this historic site can be made daily from April until November. You can spend hours walking around the gardens exploring all of their secrets. There are plenty of benches dotted around so make sure you take your time to stop and rest your legs.

Salzburg Cathedral

One of the cheap things to do in Salzburg includes visiting Salzburg Cathedral. The cathedral was built in the 17th century and its size makes it look like it could have been built today.

A closer look at Salzburg’s cathedral reveals many surprising and exciting details. With its mighty dome and two towers, it leaves an absolutely impressive stamp on the city skyline.

It also boasts a wealth of intricate artwork inside that has captivated visitors for centuries. A conservation fee of €5 is collected for visiting the church, in order to ensure its protection and preservation.

This is reduced to €3.50 with the Salzburg card. This activity may not be free but the conservation fee goes to a good cause and it is well worth the experience that you will receive.

Mirabell Palace

Mirabell Palace was built in 1606 by Prince-Archbishop Wolf Dietrich. The name Mirabell comes from its Italian origin of two words meaning ‘admirable’ and ‘beautiful’.

The palace is located in the old town of Salzburg and is surrounded by a beautiful garden. Today, Mirabell Palace houses offices for the city of Salzburg as well as its mayor.

Many weddings are held in the famous Marble Hall and the whole complex is open to the public free of charge.

The Marble Hall is the most famous room in the palace, with its detailed walls and intricate ceiling. This is a must-see if you are visiting the Palace. Another must-see is the Angel Staircase which is decorated with several cherubs.

Mirabell Gardens

The Mirabell Gardens are a part of the Mirabell Palace and they are a great place to relax, enjoy nature and have a picnic. Scenic points and spots of interest include the Pegasus Fountain, the Dwarf Garden and the Grand Fountain.

Pegasus Fountain is a sculpture of the winged horse which is based on Greek mythology and was created in 1913 by Kaspar Gras. The Grand Fountain was designed by Ottavio Mosto and decorated with 4 groups of figures symbolising the 4 elements: fire, air, earth and water.

The Hedge Theater can be found in the western section of Mirabell Gardens. It is one of the oldest hedge theatres north of the Alps and serves as an outdoor stage during summertime for folk-heritage events and other special occasions. The Dwarf Garden originated during the rule of archbishop Franz Anton Fürst Harrach.

It originally consisted of 28 dwarves made from white Untersberg marble. Now there are only 17 left! It is the oldest garden like this in Europe. Please note that this is closed during winter months.

The Rose Garden is located directly south of Mirabell Gardens, whose ornamental rose beds are a prominent feature and are a breathtaking view to see.

Hohensalzburg Fortress

If you are seeking a free way to get your adrenaline pumping, consider a climb up Hohensalzburg Fortress . This medieval castle was originally built in 1077, the purpose of the fortress was to protect the principality and archbishops from outside threats.

For hundreds of years through countless battles and sieges, the city has never been captured by foreign troops.

Today, it sits on Salzburg’s highest hilltop, 506m above sea level with views that span miles over the Austrian countryside.

The fortress is open all year round and visitors can get there by walking or taking the Funicular Railway from Festungsgasse.

The Hohensalzburg Fortress is one of the largest castles in Europe and arguably the continent’s best-preserved medieval castle.

When you visit the fortress, you will be able to see how its unique location has made it such an important place in history. The view alone will make your trip worthwhile!

Salzburg Festival

Salzburg’s annual festival of opera, music and drama is the world’s most significant. It features classics as well as performances by famous artists and events for younger audiences.

It is held every summer and is one of the oldest and most prestigious festivals in the world.

Salzburg Festival takes place in the months of July/August, with performances taking place at venues across Salzburg and surrounding areas.

The city also becomes a hub for artists during this time, who come from all over the world to perform here.

Salzburg Zoo Hellbrunn

Visit Salzburg Zoo Hellbrunn to marvel at creatures from around the world. With more than 1500 animals and 150 different species, this former animal park is a fascinating place to visit. Every type of creature is represented here, from white rhinos to red pandas.

All continents of the world are covered and the zoo entry is free if you have a Salzburg card. The zoo is located within the Hellbrunn Estate which was completed in 1619.

Today, Salzburg Zoo is committed to creating a modern habitat in which it can display and protect the natural world. The Salzburg Zoo is a great place to spend the day and is one of the best things to do in Salzburg with kids.

Mozart’s Birthplace

In 1756, W. A. Mozart was born in the “Hagenauer Haus” at No. 9 Getreidegasse in Salzburg. Today, this is one of Austria’s most popular museums and a must-see for all Mozart fans.

The birthplace of the famous composer continues to draw Mozart fans and history buffs from around the world.

The museum features a number of exhibits, including the original historic musical instruments used by Mozart as well as letters and manuscripts from his personal collection.

The house itself has been restored to its original state and is considered one of Salzburg’s most important historical buildings.

This constantly evolving museum is a must-see for all Salzburg visitors and is also a great place for families. There is plenty of space for children to run around and enjoy themselves while parents take in the museum exhibits.

Museum of Modern Art

The Museum of Modern Art in Salzburg at the Rupertinum presents temporary exhibitions of international format on 700 m².

This Early Baroque building in the centre of the historic district, with its unmistakable Friedensreich Hundertwasser–designed ‘Tongue Beards’ is an exquisite backdrop for modern art.

In 1983, the building was taken over by public ownership and renamed the ‘Salzburg Museum of Modern Art and Graphic Collection’.

The rooms were adapted to their current use as an outstanding setting for head-turning graphic art and photography. It now houses the Generali Foundation’s art collection which consists of more than 2,100 stunning works by 250 renowned artists.

The Generali Foundation’s extensive archives, library and parts of its collection are open to the public and are free of charge to view.

There is a lot to see and do in the city of Salzburg. There are plenty of free walking tours to enjoy, hundreds of beautiful buildings to admire and exciting museums to learn from.

The city is also filled with great restaurants and cafes to enjoy, as well as many quirky and quaint shops.

There are plenty of places to see and things to do in Salzburg , so you will not be disappointed on your trip! In fact, with so many things to choose from it can be hard to know where to start.

If you purchase the Salzburg card, you unlock the potential to enjoy several free attractions that can make your trip even more enjoyable.

You can use the card to visit some of the most important historical sites in Salzburg and you will also be able to get discounts at many of the city’s museums as well. If you want to save money on your trip, then purchasing a Salzburg Card is a great way to do so!

Recommended cheap tours in Salzburg

• Private Salzburg Scavenger Hunt and Self-Guided Walking Tour
• Salzburg: “The Sound of Music” City Exploration Game
• A taste of Salzburg: An audio tour through the birthplace of Mozart
• Salzburg Oldtown: Sightseeing Walking Tour with Licensed Local Guide
• Salzburg Sightseeing City Cruise on Salzach River
• Pub Crawl Salzburg
• Salzburg City Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
• Lonely Goatherd Bike Tour: Cycle Salzburg’s Surroundings with the Sound of Music
• Salzburg Highlights Tour with Coffee and Cake in Panorama Restaurant

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Sam, a seasoned traveler across four continents and 49 countries, is a leading authority in travel planning. Her website, Travelling King, offers tailored itineraries and expert guides for seamless trips. Sam's expertise in luxury travel, fast travel, and destination guides keeps her at the forefront of the travel community.

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‎ Austria ‎ >  Salzburg > Free Mozart Walking Tour In Salzburg

Top 10 Salzburg Tips | Suggested Itineraries For Salzburg

• Top 10 Things To Do
• Old Town Walking Tour
• Sound of Music Movie Tour
• Mozart Walking Tour
• Best Viewpoints In Salzburg
• More Sights
• Best Day Trips
• Helpful Visitor Tips
• Best Places To Stay
• Suggested Itineraries

Free Mozart Walking Tour:

Walking Tour Location :  Salzburg City Center ( Altstadt ) Cost :  Free, Self-Guided ( Mozart Museum costs listed below ) Style :  Do-It-Yourself Walking Tour ( Self Guided )  Start : Café Tomaselli End : Saint Peter’s Restaurant ( Stiftskulinarium ) Walking Distance :  2.1 Miles ( +0.5 inside Museums ) Time :  90 Minutes For Walk ( with attractions 4-5 hours ) Fun Scale :  9.5 out of 10

Mozart Tour Overview:

While many Americans travel to Salzburg chasing the allure of The Sound of Music, the real pride of the city is its favorite son, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart.  Born in Salzburg on January 27th, 1756, Mozart would grow from a young child prodigy into someone who revolutionized classical music and culture worldwide even though he only lived until the age of 35.  Mozart lived in Salzburg with his family for the first 25 years of his life setting the groundwork for the hills to truly be alive with the sound of music.

On our free Mozart walking tour in Salzburg will take you through some of the most important locations of the famous composer’s life.  You’ll visit his birthplace, see his family’s second home in Salzburg, go to one of Mozart’s favorite cafes, stroll the streets he grew up, and many learn about famous locations associated with his music.  Following this self-guided Mozart tour is a real treat for all levels of his fans from the casual to the hardcore, enjoy!

Eight Interesting Mozart Facts:

1. His Real Name :  While you may know him as Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, his real birth name was Johannes Chrysostomus Wolfgangus Theophilus Mozart.

2. Infant Mortality :  While Mozart was one of 7 children, he and his sister Maria Anna ( nicknamed Nannerl ) were the only 2 to live past infancy which was very common in the 1700s.  Wolfgang himself had 6 children with his wife, but only 2 of them lived past infancy.

3. Famous Sister :  While Wolfgang became the most famous Mozart, his sister Nannerl ( 4.5 years his elder ) was the family’s first child prodigy.  By age 12 she was one of the most skillful musicians in Europe but had to give up music when she turned 18 as she had become “marriage aged”.

4. Grand Tour : Out of his 35 year life, Mozart spent 10 years, 2 months and 2 days ( 3720 total ) traveling by horse carriage around Europe.  One tour with his sister took over 3 years ( 1773-1776 ) and covered performances in 88 cities. Travel was very was slow and uncomfortable with just Vienna ( now a 2.5 hour train ) taking a week.

5. Super Composer :  In addition to being a talented musician, Wolfgang wrote his first piece at age 6 ( Minuet and Trio in G major ), his first symphony by age 8, his first opera by age 11 ( Apollo et Hyacinthus ), and produced a more than 626 works before his death at age 35.

6. Memory Power :  While visiting the Rome in 1773, Mozart heard Gregorio Allegri’s  Miserere  performed in the Vatican’s Sistine Chapel was able to write out the entire score from memory.

7. Married For Love :  While Pope Clement XIV had bestowed an honorary royal title on Mozart for his religious songs, he chose not to marry a baroness and instead went “below his station” to marry for love against his dad’s wishes.

8. Death Mystery :  No one knows for sure how Mozart died ( suspected kidney failure or poisoning ) or where he is buried although he has a tomb for show in Vienna.  Because he had substantial debts, Wolfgang was buried in a common man’s grave with little fanfare which was later dug up for other burials.

Mozart Walking Tour Sights:

1. café tomaselli :.

About Café Tomaselli :  It’s said that the Turks left behind bags of coffee beans during the failed Siege of Vienna in 1683 which quickly led to a thriving coffee culture through Austria.  Frenchmen Johann Fontaine opened the first cafe in Salzburg on nearby Goldgasse in the year 1703, which was moved to the present location in 1764 and acquired by Carl Tomaselli in 1852. This makes the historic Café Tomaselli in the heart of Medieval Salzburg’s main marketplace, Old Market ( Alter Markt ), the  oldest cafe in Austria .

In addition to the age of the coffee shop, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was a frequent guest of Café Tomaselli where his beverage of choice was almond milk.   For coffee lovers, the iconic drink in Austria is a strong, black coffee typically served in a high glass with a dash of whipped cream called an Einspänner. We love to get our coffee an drink it on the second-floor balcony overlooking the square.  Mozart’s widow Konstanze even lived upstairs from the cafe with her second husband from 1824-26 until his death.  It was here where they worked on Mozart’s biography today which she published in 1828.

As you drink your coffee where Mozart once drank his almond milk, make sure to admire the Old Market Square .  In Roman times the city was called Luvaum ( controlled from 15BC-488AD ) and this square was where the only bridge over the Salzach River entered the heart of town from 15AD until 1859AD.  Salzburg gained grain market rights in 996AD ( when Austria was formed ) and then grew its Old Market Square starting in 1297AD after the city was granted political sovereignty from Bavaria.  We love the square’s Saint Florian Fountain which goes back to 1488 and has a statue of the Saint added in the 1700s.  Café Tomaselli is the best place to start our free Mozart walking tour in Salzburg as you get to retrace the composers own steps.

Hours : Monday-Saturday 7am-9pm; Sunday 8am-9pm.  Address :  Alter Markt #7.   Website : Here .

Mozart Connection : Was the Cafe Wolfgang frequented the most in Salzburg and his beverage of choice was their almond milk.  Mozart’s widow Konstanze lived upstairs from 1824-26 where she worked on his biography.

2. Cafe Fürst Confectionery ( Konditorei ):

About Café Konditorei Fürst :  Sitting just across the Old Market Square from Café Tomaselli, Café Konditorei Fürst where confectioner Paul Furst created the world-famous  Mozart Chocolate Balls ( Mozartkugel ) in 1890.  An authentic Mozartkugel is covering in chocolate with a marzipan center with pistachio, the finest nougat, and must be perfectly round.  To this day, the delicious treats are still made expertly by hand following the original recipe.  It is not to be overlooked that the cafe also has delicious coffee and a wide range of other sweet treats available.

Since the creation of the popular Mozartkugel, there have been many imitators as Paul Furst never applied for a patent to protect.  We highly suggest going with the authentic Furst Mozart Chocolate Balls and buying a couple extra sweets to bring with on our free Mozart walking tour in Salzburg.  The original Mozartkugel are still wrapped in silver foil with a blue Mozart portrait.  You can notice that on the logo for the Furst Mozartkugel they flattened Mozart’s nose to give him a more youthful appearance even though in real life he had a bit of a hump on his nose.  The most popular competitor you will see around town is in a red and yellow foil wrapper made by the Mirabell company.  Its portrait of Mozart is also interesting as it has him depicted with the brown eyes he had in real life even though in many paintings at the time they were changed to blue.

Hours : Monday-Saturday 8am-8pm; Sunday 9am-8pm.  Address :  Alter Markt #13.   Website : Here .

Mozart Connection : Makers of the Original Mozartkugel chocolate ball candies in a silver foil wrapper, although other companies have tried to copy them.

3. Collegiate Church ( Kollegienkirche ):

About Collegiate Church :  The massive white church towering over University Square ( Universitätsplatz ) has a boring interior but it holds a special place on this free Mozart walking tour in Salzburg.  It was in this cathedral where Mozart premiered “Mass in D minor” on February 5th, 1769 and it is one of his prettiest songs .  This arrangement may be the most beautiful song Mozart wrote during the years he lived in Salzburg and he was only 13 years old.

The construction of Collegiate Church was started in 1694, but took over 70 years to fully complete as the original  builder went blind  a few years into the project.  Hidden along the West side of the church is the wonderful Prince′s Park ( Furtwänglerpark ) which was once part of a Franciscan Monastery and became part of the University of Salzburg by the 1600s.  It was in the Great Hall ( Aula Theater ) of the University where Mozart first publicly performed at age of 5 .  The performance was a dance in his school’s Latin play Sigismundus Hungariae Rex .  He later premiered his first true opera ( Apollo et Hyacinthus ) here in Latin on May 13th, 1767 at age 11.

Salzburg’s main open-air market sits in the vast University Square on the North side of the church with growers from all over the region selling delicious produce.  Known as the Green Market ( Grünmarkt ), it was established in 1857 and is still open daily.  We recommend recharging here by buying some fruit and taking a short break to do some people watching.  One of the best views of the market is looking down from the windows on the backside of Mozart’s Birth Place House ( Universitätspl #14 ) which we will tour next on this free Mozart walking tour.

Outdoor Market Hours : Monday-Friday 7am-7pm; Saturday 6am-3pm; Sunday Closed.   Church Website :   Here .

Mozart Connection : This church is where Wolfgang premiered “Mass in D minor” at age 13 and the Grand Hall inside the neighboring Salzburg University is where he publicly performed for the first time at age 5 in dance for a school play and later premiered his first true opera at age 11.

4a. Mozart’s Birthhouse History ( Geburtshaus ):

About Mozart’s Birthhouse :  If you only have time to visit one site on this free Mozart walking tour in Salzburg, make sure it is this historic house where Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was born on January 27th, 1756 and lived until he was 17.  You simply can’t miss the home located right in the heart of Salzburg with its bright yellow facade and large groups of tourists milling around the entrance.  This museum is by far the most visited Mozart landmark in Salzburg and we especially love the Medieval elements like the pull-chain doorbell near the door.

In 1747, the family patriarch Leopold Mozart rented a 3-room apartment on the third floor with his wife which was owned by local tradesman and delicatessen owner Johann Lorenz Hagenauer.  Leopold was a chamber musician and renown music teacher who had recently been appointed to the work in the Prince-Archbishop’s Court in Salzburg.  Their apartment consisted of a small study room, living room, and bedroom where Mozart was born.  All seven of the couple’s children were born here, although only two survived : Maria Anna Walburga ( known as Nannerl ) in 1751 and Joannes Chrysostomus Wolfgangus Theophilus ( Wolfgang Amadeus ) in 1756.  Yes, you read that correctly, his official name isn’t what you thought it was .

Known today as the Mozart Birthhouse ( Geburtshaus ), this is also where Leopold wrote his small yellow book entitled Notenbuch für Wolfgang the same year Wolfgang was born which is now on its 1800th edition.  It was around 1759 that Leopold realized the children were musically gifted when he found out that 7-year-old Nannerl was excellent harpsichord player and fortepianist.  Just a toddler at the time, Mozart idolized his older talented sister and just 3 years later they were already performing together.  The children played for noble audiences and numerous events including a private show for Elector Maximilian III in Munich and Empress Maria Theresa in Vienna.

The family’s Grand Tour of Europe from 1763-66 is their most famous which saw them perform as far away as London.  Because family developed a close relationship with the Hagenauer, who owned the Mozart Birthhouse, their letter correspondence is how we know a lot about Wolfgang’s childhood and the Grand Tour.  In total, they visited 88 cities over serval thousand miles of travel in just over 3 years.  While on the road in 1764 Mozart is said to have composed his first symphony in London at only 8 years old.

During the Grand Tour, Leopold said of the rising star Nannerl , “Although she is only 12 years old, is one of the most skillful players in Europe.”  Unfortunately, by 1769 the young child prodigy Nannerl was forced to give up performing music when she turned 18 as the culture of the day considered her marriage age.  We will never know how good Nannerl could have been as on her brother’s future tours she had to stay behind at the Mozart Birthhouse, but continued to help Wolfgang with composition and dictation.

By 1773 the family upgraded to a new home in Salzburg which we will tour next, but thanks to the International Mozarteum Foundation the Mozart Birthhouse opened as a museum in 1880 to keep the history alive.  Talking the self-guided tour of Mozart’s Birth Place is excellent and we explain it in detail below.

Mozart Connection : The house where Wolfgang was born on January 27th, 1756 and lived until he was 17 with his parents and talented sister Nannerl.  Their father Leopold Mozart also wrote a famous music instruction book while living here.

4b. Mozart’s Birth Place Tour ( Geburtshaus ):

About The Mozart’s Birth Place Tour :  A self-guided tour of the Mozart Birthhouse ( Geburtshaus ) covers three stories of interesting exhibits labeled in multiple languages and takes about 90 minutes to get through.  There are helpful multi-lingual audio guides, interactive displays, and everything is labeled in both German and English.

Your tour starts on the 3-room 3rd floor ( 4th level ) apartment where you are introduced to the stories and portraits of the individual family members and even get to check out the room where Mozart was born in .  We also love the preserved Medieval kitchen, Mozart’s childhood violin ( Kindergeige ), and their full-sized piano as we learn about their personal history.  There are also excellent views out of the Southern windows of the Mozart Birthhouse onto University Square ( Universitätsplatz ) which holds the Green Market ( Grünmarkt ) and massive Collegiate Church ( Kollegienkirche ) from earlier on this free Mozart walking tour.  Remember that in Europe the ground level is counted as a floor so it’s 4 flights of stairs up to the 3rd floor and it’s not wheelchair or stroller friendly.

The 2nd floor primarily focuses on Mozart as a composer of operas.  There are a lot of historic and contemporary set models, costumes from his operas, plus excerpts from Mozart’s most famous operas for you to listen to.  We especially love the different  musical instruments  that are on display including their Clavichord wall piano.  This quite piano was used to compose many famous works including Requiem .  Many of his most famous operas were written later in life while he lived in Vienna, but the dreaming, writing, and designing started in Salzburg.

The 1st floor of the Mozart Birthhouse is dedicated to the everyday life of the family both while in Salzburg and while traveling.  In addition to maps of the family’s famous Grand Tour of Europe, there are exhibitions on how it was to travel by horse carriage in the 1700s.  There are collections of 18th-century travel utensils, original documents, and paintings telling the Mozart family’s story in Salzburg and abroad.  In total Mozart spent 10 years, 2 months and 2 days ( 3720 total ) of his 35-year life traveling by horse carriage with was slow and uncomfortable .  Just going to Vienna from Salzburg at the time took nearly a week.

Also on the first floor are a series of interactive rooms where you get to listen to Mozart’s music in a whole new way.  There are computer listening stations where you get to see the songs come alive on digital music sheets plus an amazing sensory room acoustically built to experience Mozart’s work.  The tour rounds out with a few of the rooms are staged with period furniture to help give you the atmosphere of the age while they were at home.  The family’s later years are covered more in-depth at the Residence Museum located next on this free Mozart walking tour.

Hours :  Daily 9am-5:30pm; in July & August open 8:30am-7pm; last entry 30 minutes before closing.   Cost : 11€ for Adults; 3.50€ for kids; 23€ for a family ticket.  Combo ticket available with his adult home.   Guided Tours :  While the Museum is mainly self-guided and takes 90 minutes, you can book a staff-guided tour as well for 66€ per group.  All staff tours must be booked at least 2 weeks in advance.   Website :   Here .

5a. Mozart’s Residence History ( Wohnhaus ):

About The Mozart’s Residence History :  Welcome to the Mozart Residence ( Wohnhaus ) where Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart lived in with his family from age 17 to 25 ( 1773-1781 ).  After the Leopold and Wolfgang returned from the road in 1773, the family used their position to substantially upgrade their housing.  Located on Hannibalplatz ( Makartplatz No. 8-9 ) they moved into an 8 room apartment on the 1st floor ( second level ) of the Dance Master’s House ( Tanzmeisterhaus ).  This was considered extremely spacious for a family of four ( and their servants ) at the time as Old Town across the river where they were before had 15,000 residents crammed into just 700 houses.

The Dance Master’s House ( Tanzmeisterhaus ) was constructed as a duplex in 1617 and combined when Franz Gottlieb Spöckner was given permission to hold dance lessons for nobles in one half while living in the other.  Spöckner was a friend of the Mozart family having served as a witness in Leopold and Anna’s wedding at the Salzburg Cathedral in 1747.  After returning from the road in 1773 they rented half of Spöckner’s former home from his cousin who had been managing it since his death in 1765.

With the increased space, the Mozarts were any to have more room to rehearse music, teach music lessons, host social gatherings, and playing dart target shooting ( Bölzlschiessen ).  The game was popular among young aristocrats and included 6-10 players shooting darts from airguns at humorously designed paper targets.  Joining them in the home were their servants, pet songbirds, and a fox terrier dog named Pimperl.  As royal court musicians, the children also gained access to the neighboring Mirabell Gardens which weren’t open to the public until 1854.

While Wolfgang lived here almost continuously until September 1777 he and his father frustrated by the lack of opportunity and income potential being under the thumb of their boss the Arch-Bishop of Salzburg.  Mozart wrote around 12 mildly-acclaimed pieces a year here, but great a strong desire to write operas.  Although there wasn’t much operatic work in Salzburg, his appetite grew watching people in the square near the Mozart Residence flock to the theater between 4-5 o’clock.

Being granted the right to seek other employment, Wolfgang traveled to Paris in 1778 where turned down a large salary of 450 florins a year and his mother Anna who was accompanying him died of illness on the trip.  Mozart wrote is famed Sinfonia Concertante after his mom’s death ( buried in Paris ), but stayed living in Vienna where he started to freelance instead of returning to the family home.

Wolfgang left home permanently in 1781 and until 1784, Leopold lived at the Mozart Residence ( Wohnhaus ) with just Nannerl ( now in her early thirties ) and their servants.  Early on Wolfgang tried to get permission to marry Constanze Weber in Vienna, but Leopold initially objected.  This was mainly because Mozart had received a noble title of “Knight of the Golden Spur” from the Pope was accepted to marry a baroness, but ultimately was allowed to go below his status and married for love .  Wolfgang had originally fallen Constanze’s sister Aloysia while the families toured doing music and blocked from pursuing her before later being allowed to court Constanze.

Leopold had also blocked Nannerl from getting permission to marry a man before finally marrying the City Administrator of the small rural town of Saint Gilgen at the age of 33.  Although Saint Gilgen was where her mother was born, it was hours away by horse carriage ( 29 minutes by car ), her previously twice married husband already had 5 ill-educated kids, and it left Leopold alone.  In July 1785, Nannerl returned to the Mozart Residence in Salzburg to give birth to her first child, a son named Leo.  This was the same year Wolfgang peaked in famed so even back Salzburg the family had plenty of money.  While Nannerl soon returned to care for her stepchildren in Saint Gilgen, her infant son was raised in Salzburg by his grandfather ( with servants ) until Leopold’s death in May 1787.

After Leopold’s death, the family home changed hands many times, with all the owners treasuring the legacy.  Two years after the Mirabell Gardens were made public in 1854 a large Mozart Wohnhaus to commemorate the property.  The Stiftung Mozarteum tried to buy the home in the 1930s but it didn’t go through before Austria was annexed into Germany.  During WW2, the Mozart Residence ( Wohnhaus ) was directly hit by air raid bombings on October 16th, 1944 which leveled 2/3rds of the building.  In 1955 a more modern building replaced the part that was destroyed, but over 5 years from 1991 it was restored to its original state thanks to the Dai-ichi Life Insurance Company.  The Mozart Residence opened as a full museum for treasures held at the Mozarteum on the 240th anniversary of Wolfgang’s birth on January 27th, 1996.

Mozart Connection : The house where Wolfgang lived with his family from age 17 until he moved to Vienna at 25.  Their 8 room apartment was where the family held many social gatherings.  The former owner of the home, and Court Dance Master, Gottlieb Spöckner was a witness for the wedding of Wolfgang’s parents in 1747.

5b. Mozart’s Residence Tour ( Wohnhaus ):

About The Mozart’s Residence Tour :  Touring the home that Mozart lived in with his family from 1773-1781 is a real delight.  Not only are there fewer tourists, but there are also many fewer steps which makes a tour of the Mozart Residence ( Wohnhaus ) a great companion to visiting his birth house.  The exhibits here cover his later years in Salzburg from ages 17-25 more aspects of the family’s everyday life before Mozart moved to Vienna.

Starting on the 1st floor ( 2nd level ) you get a great introductory lesson on the history of the Wohnhaus building with original documents and portraits.  There are multiple original instruments of Mozart’s on display from his Italian Costa-violin and a  Walter Fortepiano which he played every day while living his final 10 years in Vienna.  The larger piano was popular at the time in Vienna and Prague, but in Salzburg the smaller Harpsichords from the 1500s were still very much the norm.  It’s cool to see the instruments set inside a large Dance-Master’s Salon Room where Mozart actually played music often with friends and family while living in Salzburg.  Maybe the most interesting painting in this area is the famous family portrait created shortly after Mozart’s mother had died in 1774.

There are additional rooms in the museum covering the Mozart family’s large social gatherings at the house, the women in Wolfgang’s life ( especially his sister Nannerl ), their extensive European travels, and their mutual love for dart target shooting ( Bölzlschiessen ).  It was in this large rooms where Mozart and Nannerl would invite friends over to shoot at humorously decorated targets on Sundays and holidays after lunch.  There are numerous targets on display at the Mozart Residence ( Wohnhaus ) which measured up to 3 feet in size,  typically with satirical paintings, poking fun of some member of the group.  The shooting was followed by card games and a stroll in the Mirabell Park which you will also do shortly on our free Mozart walking tour.

While most visitors finish their self-guide Mozart house tour in around 60 minutes, you can spend an endless amount of time in their extensive Audio-Visual Collection.  You can sample any of 28,000 audio and 3,500 video resources on Mozart with the oldest from 1889 of a Dutch performer singing from Don Giovanni in acapella.  It is very interesting skimming through the numerous performances of Mozarts works by other artists, rehearsal excerpts, documentary films, motion pictures, plays, and children’s movies.

Even more priceless than the instruments, the most valuable collection on the Mozart Residence tour is the Autograph Vault.  Housed in the basement of the estate, the Autograph Vault has original letters and documents as well as autographed music manuscripts from the family.  The collection holds more than half of all the known documents pertaining to the Mozart family, including some 200 original letters ( roughly 150 with Mozart as the primary author, 50 as the secondary author ), 300 letters by his father Leopold, and over 100 autograph music manuscripts.  There are also main sketches and short drafts of works by W. A. Mozart and also autographs from his son, Franz Xaver Mozart.  You just pre-arrange visiting the Autograph Vault as it is not including in the standard self-guide Mozart tour.

Visiting Hours :  Daily 9am-5:30pm; in July & August 8:30am-7pm; last entry an hour before close.   Cost :  Adults are 11€, or 18€ for a ticket that also includes Mozart’s Birth Place.  Children are only 3.50€, and a family ticket is 23€.  Autograph Vault Tour Requests :  [email protected].    Website :   Here .

6. Salzburg State Theatre ( Salzburger Landestheater ):

About The Salzburg State Theatre :  Sitting directly across the square from the Mozart Residence ( Wohnhaus ) was the Ballhaus which was built in 1625.  It was constructed by the Prince-Archbishop as part of his Hannibal Gardens as a facility for playing ball games and not as a dance hall.  The most popular sport of the aristocracy at the time was a tennis-like indoor game with rackets and a net.  The hall was perfect for the game as it was 3-stories tall with an open courtyard, covered roof, and wraparound viewing decks.

After the nearby Mirabell Gardens were laid out in 1730 ( public since 1854 ) the Hannibal Gardens started getting phased out.  The garden and square was named after Hannibal von Raitenau who the brother of Prince Archbishop Wolf Dietrich Raitenau ( built Mirabell Palace ).   All that remains today from the original garden are the triumphant Greek fencing statues and wooded area at the entrance of the Mirabell Gardens.  Even the Ballhaus went away when a brand new Prince-Archbishop Court Theatre was built here in 1775, replacing the old Court Theater inside the Salzburg Residenz.  At the time, the new Court Theatre was waterfront property with the riverbank along Schwarzstraße ( flow redirected in 1862 ).

The placement of the theater right across from Mozart’s house is was inspired him to grow an appetite for writing operas.  He would see theatergoers flock to the shows from 4-5 o’clock and it served as inspiration.  Emmanuel Schikaneder was the director of the Court Theatre for several years and regularly invited the Mozart family to his box during shows.  Mozart’s music was performed there for the first time in 1776.  A unique thing about the Court Theatre is that it was built for the masses to enjoy the theater and had only three rows of seats ( 33 total seats ) with the rest of the space exclusively standing room.

The modern Salzburg State Theatre replaced the Court Theatre on October 1, 1893 with the overture from Mozart’s La Clemenza di Tito.  Today it is an excellent venue for watching plays, operas, and ballets, as well as the performances during Mozart Week every January.  In addition to Mozart’s Don Giovanni and The Little Magic Flute, other common shows here ranged from Shakespeare to Swan Lake and The Sound of Music.

Guided Tours :  Once a month they have behind the scenes guided tours of the theater which you can find more information on here .   Theater Show Tickets & Website :   Here .

Mozart Connection : Was the theater across from the family home which helped Wolfgang gravitated toward writing more operas.  He also performed here as a court musician.

7. Salzburg Puppet Theater ( Marionettentheater ):

About The Marionette Theater :  The world’s best-known marionette theater performs many operas by Mozart with ‘The Magic Flute’ being their specialty .  Their dramatic shows, in operation since 1913, require up to ten expert puppeteers working in harmony to animate the wooden puppets into vibrant characters.  Seeing one of Wolfgang’s operas come to life here is one of the more enjoyable experiences on our Mozart walking tour.

It’s said that the Salzburg Marionette Theater’s puppet version of one of Mozart’s operas inspired Rodger & Hammerstein when they were writing the Broadway version of The Sound of Music in 1959.  Anyone who was seen the play or the hit 1965 movie can recall Maria and the children performing  ‘ Lonely Goatherd ‘  with carved puppets on a mini-stage.  The local troop was on tour in Paris during the filming so they ultimately they used the puppets and control of famous American puppeteer Bil Baird for the movie, but the shows at the Salzburg Marionette Theater are just as lively.

There are no set tour hours for visiting the Salzburg Puppet Theater, but you can get a taste of the action in person with their great line up of live shows most days.  Either the Sound of Music or any of the full-length Mozart puppet performances are stunning experiences at the Marionette Theater.  They also supplement their featured mainstay shows with others musicals from The Nutcracker to The Barber of Seville and even Alice in Wonderland.

Address :  Schwarzstraße 24.   Show Hours :  Various shows throughout the week with 4pm afternoon shows and an evening dinner show starting at 7:30pm ( dinner at 6:30pm ).  Breaks For Touring :  The local troop typically tours internationally in much of September and December so make sure to check their schedule.   Website & Schedule :    Here .

Mozart Connection : Famous puppet theater which does many of Mozart’s plays including the opera The Magic Flute .

8. Magic Flute House ( Zauberflötenhäuschen ):

About The Magic Flute House : With the support of Wolfgang’s widow Constanze Weber Mozart and their two sons Franz Xaver and Karl Thomas, the International Mozart Foundation ( Mozarteum ) was founded here in 1841.  In addition to preserving Wolgang’s legacy and a university teaching classical music, the Mozarteum was also responsible for establishing many of the best sights on this free Mozart walking tour.  From various monuments starting in 1842, Birthplace museum in 1880, and the Residence Museum in the 1990s, the group has done fine work gathering instruments, private letters, and even the real-life Magic Flute House.

Sitting behind the main Mozarteum art nouveau building in Salzburg is the original wooden cottage where Mozart wrote his famous Opera , The Magic Flute ( Die Zauberflöte ).  It’s said that as Mozart felling behind on a commisioned project to write a play in Vienna, he was locked in the cottage by fellow writer Emanuel Schikaneder until he was done.  We aren’t sure if he was really locked inside but he did meet here with singers and musicians as he frantically completed the work which premiered on 30 September 1791.  This premiere was just 66 days before Mozart died in Vienna.

After the theatre in Vienna closed in 1873, Prince Starhemberg donated Magic Flute House to the Mozarteum in Salzburg.  After being shipped to Salzburg, the cottage briefly sat in the Dwarf Garden ( Zwerglgarten ) next to Mirabell Palace before being moved up near the monastery on Capuchin Hill ( Kapuzinerberg ) from 1877-1950.  After being damaged by WW2 bombings in 1944, the Magic Flute House was eventually restored and place in a garden behind the Mozarteum on top of a former 17th-century bastion from the Medieval city wall.  If you hike up to the Capuchin Monastery there is a statue of Mozart where the cottage once sat.

Today the Magic Flute House is only accessible from the concert halls before or after musical performances or by special request.  Among the shows, the Mozarteum Orchestra hosts two concert series of its own: the Sunday Matinees and the Thursday Concerts.  There is also the famous Mozart Week Festival held every year since 1956 during the days on and around Wolfgang’s birthday on 27 January.  Around 30 orchestral, chamber musician, and soloist concerts of the world’s best Mozart interpreters perform classical as well as contemporary music around numerous venues.  In total Mozart’s annual birthday party has 55 separate performances with as many as 600 songs played throughout the festival.

Mozarteum Institute Website : Here .   Mozarteum Orchestra Website : Here .   Mozart Week Festival Info : Here .

Mozart Connection : This cottage is where Wolfgang completed his opera The Magic Flute  in Vienna during the last year of his life which was then moved to Salzburg in 1873.

9. Mirabell Palace ( Mirabellschloss ):

About Mirabell Palace :   The Mirabell Palace was not only the Summer home of Salzburg’s Prince-Archbishops, but was also where Mozart would play concerts for royalty as a child.  The Marble Ball Room was the main performance space in the palace and still holds nightly concerts at 8pm from Tuesday-Sunday.  Even if you can’t make it to an evening Mozart concert, on most weekdays you can tour the inside of Mirabell Palace on your own.

The Mirabell Palace was built in 1606 by Archbishop Wolf Dietrich Raitenau as a home  for his mistress Salome Alt  with whom he had 12 children with.  Initially called Altenau Palace in her honor, the mansion was outside of the first city walls at the time and was considered a country escape for the not-so-secret couple.  The Archbishop was expelled from office in 1612 his replacement tried to erase his memory by renaming the Summer palace Mirabell  after its beautiful views  of Old Town.  The views are especially grand from the vast gardens ( laid out in 1730, public since 1854 ) surrounding the palace which were featured in many scenes of the hit 1965 movie The Sound of Music.

Inside Mirabell Palace, the main attraction of Mozart fans is the Marble Ball Room, which is now used for weddings, where Mozart performed  piano concerts as a child.  Make sure to also check out the 3-level staircase  adorned with angel statues , which is one of our favorite art pieces in Salzburg.  The Palace has been owned by the city government since 1866 and is used as offices including the Mayor of Salzburg.  Trivia-wise it is cool to know that Bavarian Prince Otto was born in Mirabell Palace in 1815 and later went on to become the King of Greece.

Palace Interior & Staircase Hours :  Daily 8am-6pm.   Marble Hall Hours :  Monday, Wednesday, Thursday 8am-4pm; Tuesday & Friday 1-4pm.   Garden Hours :  Main gardens open all year from Dawn to Dusk; the Hedge Maze and Dwarf Garden close each Winter.   Palace Cost :  The Gardens & Palace are free.   Mozart Concerts :  Tuesday-Sunday at 8pm; no shows Mondays.   Mozart Concert Website & Tickets : Here .

Mozart Connection :  The former Summer palace of the Prince-Archbishop of Salzburg is where Wolfgang performed as a child and it still has nightly concerts with his music Tuesday-Sunday.

10. Saint Sebastian Cemetery ( Sebastianfriedhof ):

About Saint Sebastian Cemetery :  Next to the cliffside of Capuchin Hill ( Kapuzinerberg ), Saint Sebastian Cemetery ( Sebastianskirche Friedhof ) is where many members of the Mozart family are buried.  The most important graves are those of Mozart’s father Leopold, Wolfgang’s wife Constance, and her second husband Georg Nissen who was a Danish diplomat.  Constance (Konstanze) and Nissen worked together on Mozart’s biography which was published in 1828, two years after she was widowed for the second time.  While the family graves are small, it is easy to find them near the giant Mausoleum.

Because of the close proximity to the Wohnaus you visited earlier on this free Mozart walking tour, the family often came to the Saint Sebastian Church ( built in 1505 ) for Catholic mass.   We love the outdoor corridors of the cemetery lined with statues and headstones.

Here is a complete list of the all the members of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s family that are buried Saint Sebastian Cemetery.  Mozart’s maternal grandmother Eva Rosina Pertl ( 1755 ); his father Leopold Mozart ( 1787 ); Constanze’s aunt Genoveva Weber ( 1798 ); Nannerl’s first daughter Johanna Maria Anna Elisabeth von Berchtold zu Sonnenburg ( 1805 ); Constanze’s second husband Georg Nikolaus Nissen ( 1826 ); in  Mozart’s widow Constanze Nissen ( 1842 ).  Mozart’s two sisters-in-law Aloysia Lange and Sophie Haibel were also buried in Saint Sebastian’s Cemetery but were later exhumed and buried in the Salzburg municipal cemetery.

Visiting Hours :  Daily 9am-4pm; Open until 6:30pm in Summer.  Church Website :   Here .

Mozart Connection : The cemetery is where numerous members of the Mozart family are buried from Wolfgang’s wife Constanze to his dad Leopold.  The family also attended mass at the parish here often from 1773-1784.

11. Violin Maker’s House ( Geigenmacher Haus ):

About The Violin Maker’s House :  The narrow Stone Alley ( Steingasse ) was on the main road into Salzburg from the South and Salzburg mines in Hallien through Medieval times.  In the time of Mozart the cobbled lane was still very important as a waterfront lane ( river redirected in the 1860s ) pinned against the natural cliffside defense.  Steingasse led to the State Bridge ( formerly Roman bridge ) which was the only bridge into the heart of Old Town from 15BC until the 1800s.

The timeless Steingasse even became home to countless tradesmen including the shop that built his first violin  at house #25.  Mozart’s childhood violin ( Kindergeige ) was built by the violin-maker ( luthier ) Andreas Ferdinand Mayr, who worked for the Salzburg Royal Court ( 1693-1764 ).  Constructed 10 years before Mozart was born in 1746, the instrument is between a ¼ and ½ size violin.  After Mozart’s death in 1791, his sister Maria Anna (Nannerl) owned it for almost 30 years before it changed hands many times and eventually ended up at the International Mozarteum Foundation in 1896.  The childhood violin is now on display at the Mozart Birthhouse from earlier on this self-guided Mozart tour.

Directly across the street from the former violin shop is the historic brothel Maison de Plaisir ( #24 ) dates back to 1513 ( same name since 1794 ) and is still open today.  They claim that Mozart frequently visited which may be for marketing sake, but it is a little odd building no doorknob and just a buzzer.  Nearby is the fortified  Inner Stone Gate ( Innere Steintor )  which dates to 1280 ( rebuilt in 1634 ) and had a drawbridge all the way until 1900.  There are lots of interesting Medieval doors and many have chalk markings on them saying 20+C+M+B+18 meant to bless visitors.

The most important door on Steingasse is that of the  Joseph Mohr  ( #31 ) who wrote the lyrics to the timeless holiday song  ‘Silent Night’  which premiered on Christmas Eve in 1818.  The marker for Mohr’s home had been incorrectly placed at house #9 in 1968 due to an error in the 1794 Census, but was later moved to the correct house #31 in 2017.

Violin Maker House Address : Steingasse #25.

Mozart Connection : The house which once held the shop where Wolfgang’s childhood violin was built.

12. Mozart Footbridge ( Mozartsteg ):

About The Mozart Bridge :  Like many landmarks in Salzburg, the Mozart Footbridge was named after the city’s most famous resident when it opened in 1903.  Until the steel pedestrian-only bridge was acquired by the City of Salzburg in the 1920s, it actually required a tool to cross between Old Town and the Northern bank of the Salzach River.  Like all the bridged in town, it had to be significantly repaired after WW2 bombings in 1944.

Film lovers will recognize the Mozart Footbridge and views of the Salzburg High Fortress from the 1965 movie The Sound of Music.  In the film scenes, Maria and the children cross the bridge and point at landmarks during the instrumental end to the song  ‘My Favorite Things’  before skipping along the river bank.  To learn more about the nearby film sights see our  Sound Of Music Movie Tour .

Mozart Connection : Footbridge named after Wolfgang although it wasn’t built until over 100 years after his death.

13. Mozart Square ( Mozartplatz ):

14. Panorama 1829 Museum :

About The Panorama 1829 :  While the neighboring Salzburg Museum and Bell Tower are worth a stop for most visitors, you can get a great peek into what the town looked like in Mozart’s day at the Salzburg Panorama 1929.  Painted by Johann Michael Sattler ( 1786–1847 ), the Panorama 1829 is made up of a series of stunning 360-degree panoramic paintings showing how Salzburg and many other European cities looked in the early 1800s.

Since many of the towns have had huge transformations since the paintings where create almost 200 years ago, the rooms are set up as a fun game figuring out what city each on is.  Telescopes on the visitors’ platform give you a closer look at the details of the architecture and daily life as it was 200 years ago.

Panorama Hours :  Daily 9am-5pm.   Panorama Cost :  Adults 3€; Kids 1€.   Panorama Website :   Here .

Mozart Connection : Great way to get a look at what Salzburg looked like during the time Mozart was around. 

15. Old Residenz Palace & Square :

About The Old Residenz Palace :  In the time of Mozart this Palace complex was the main home for the local Prince-Archbishop who was both Wolfgang and his father Leopold’s main boss in Salzburg.  Wolfgang first performed in the State Rooms at age 6 for a bday party for Prince-Archbishop Schrattenbach on February  28th, 1763 where he played the violin and piano.  This was considered Mozart’s first public performance in Salzburg as a musician although he had performed private concerts for over a year with his older sister Nannerl.  The same day his father Leopold was named the 2nd Vice-Chapel Master of the Salzburg Court Orchestra.

Four years later he performed his first opera-like piece ( Die Schuldigkeit des ersten Gebots, Part I ) which was a sacred music drama in German in 1767.  This led to Mozart being named 3rd Concertmaster of Royal Court Orchestra ( unpaid position ) at the age of 13.   Archbishop Colloredo promoted Mozart to a very modest salary ( 150 florins a year ) in 1773 having just returned from a performance tour in Italy.  Shortly after premiering Il Re Pastore  at the Old Residenz Palace ( April 1775 ) future Court Orchestra shows were moved to the Prince-Archbishop Court Theatre ( now the Salzburg State Theatre ) next to Wolfgang’s home we visited earlier on this free Mozart tour in Salzburg.

While the first Bishops of Salzburg lived at Saint Peter’s Monastery ( since 739 ), they built their own mansion here in 1120 , just fifty years after starting the High Fortress Castle.  The Residenz Palace was centrally located, was easily connected to Salzburg’s major churches, and perfectly set up for governing the city.  In 1596, the mansion was rebuilt and expanded as part of an Italianate makeover to secure Salzburg as a Catholic stronghold.  Today you can tour  15 of the elegant States Rooms, some of which Mozart performed in.

As part of the palace re-build, the Prince-Archbishop also created the vast Residenz Square ( Residenzplatz ) which required leveling many Medieval homes and a cemetery.  The square had once been the site of an ancient Roman Forum when the town was known as Luvaum ( 15BC-488AD ).  With modern excavations beneath the square, they found blocks from the time of Emperor Septimius Severus ( 193-211AD ), ruins of Roman buildings, walls, a road, and a Weihealtar with inscriptions of the river god Iuvavus.  A 4-foot-tall part of the Jupiter Altar ( 2nd or 3rd century AD ) was also found during renovations of Residenz Square in 2008.

Make sure to visit Residenz Square’s 45-foot-tall  Horse Fountain ( Residenzbrunnen )  if you didn’t already do so on your way from the Panorama 1829 Museum.  Completed in 1661, this is the largest Baroque fountain located outside of Italy and is topped with a Triton which matches Bernini’s famous Triton Fountain in Rome.  The Horse Fountain was also featured in a couple scenes of the Sound of Music movie including when Maria splashes in it while performing  ‘I Have Confidence in Me’ .

Residenz Hours :  Wednesday-Monday 10am-5pm; Closed Tuesdays.   Time Required :  It takes about 30 minutes for the Staterooms and 45 minutes for the art gallery.   Cost :  Adults 12€; Kids 5€; Family Pass 22€.   Guided Tours :  90-120 minute guided tours for large groups; audio guides are also available for smaller groups and individuals.   Residenz Website :   Here .

Mozart Connection : The main home for the Prince-Archbishop who was Wolfgang and his father Leopold’s main boss in Salzburg.  Wolfgang performed here many times from ages 6-17 including his first public performance in Salzburg in 1763. 

16. Salzburg Cathedral ( Dom ):

About Salzburg Cathedral :  The magnificent Salzburg Cathedral ( Dom ) in the very center of town was initially built by Saint Virgil ( Bishop from 767-84 ) in 774 and was about half the size of the current Cathedral.  It was been consecrated three times ( 774, 1628, & 1959 ) and it is believed that there was even a large temple on the site of the Cathedral going back to when this part of town was Roman Forum ( 15BC-488AD ).

The Cathedral was first consecrated on September 24th, 774 when the remains of  Saint Rupert  ( Bishop of Worms ) were moved here and an annual festival still marks the day.  Rupert was responsible for the redeveloped the former Roman town into modern Salzburg starting in 696.  Salzburg Cathedral since been rebuilt many times due to fires and renovated after WW2 bombings.  In the 1100s Archbishop Konrad III ( 1177-1183 ) had a vast Romanesque basilica with five towers constructed here and the foundation can be seen in the crypt below the church.  Today’s Baroque masterpiece opened was completed in 1628.

The Salzburg Cathedral’s connection to the Mozart family goes far back as Wolfgang’s parents, Leopold and Anna Maria Mozart were married here on November 21st, 1747.  Leopold Mozart had moved to Salzburg from Germany and in 1743 was appointed to a position ( fourth violinist ) in the Royal Court Orchestra by Prince-Archbishop Leopold Anton von Firmian.  His duties included composition and the teaching of violin ( later, piano ) to the choirboys of the Salzburg Cathedral.  Leopold was promoted in 1758 ( second violinist ) and again to Deputy Chapel Master ( Kapellmeister ) in 1763, all the while teaching his prodigy children Wolfgang and Nannerl.

Wolfgang ( a staunch Catholic ) was tied to the Salzburg Cathedral early as he was baptized here just the day after he was born on January 28th, 1756.  He was one of 7 children in his family, but one of only two who made it past infancy.  Inside the cathedral to the left, you can still visit the bronze  baptismal font where Wolfgang was Christened which is one of our favorite stops on this free Mozart tour in Salzburg.  The low profile, dark brown font supported on a base of lions really stands out in the contrast of the white-washed cathedral.

Later in life, in his capacity of Royal Court Organist and Concertmaster, Mozart composed numerous works of sacred music to be performed here.  Out of the more than 626 pieces he completed, a large portion of them were religious in nature.  The Prince-Archbishop ( and essentially the church ) was Mozart’s boss until he was 25, he was deeply Catholic, music with sacred overtones was popular, and mass provided a large audience.

Before leaving Salzburg to move full-time to Vienna, Mozart wrote Solemn Vespers  for a mass at Salzburg Cathedral in 1780, which had strong opera tones although it was a church piece.  This was a foreshadowing of the masterpieces operas he would write during the last ten years of his life.  Mozart’s famous  C Minor Mass which premiered Saint Peter’s Abbey in 1783, is still performed at the Dom Cathedral each year during the Salzburg Festival.

Visiting Hours : Monday-Saturday 8am-6pm & Sundays 1pm-6pm; Summer months open until 7pm; Winter Mondays closes at 5pm.  Doors often open as early as 6:15am Monday-Saturday.   Cost : Free, however donations requested.   Mass : Sunday 10am.   Organ Performance : June-Sept Wed & Sat 11:15am for one hour.   Museum Hours : Wednesday-Monday 10am-5pm ( last entrance 4pm, closed Tuesdays ); Open daily in December; July & August also open daily until 8pm.   Museum Cost :  Adults 10€, Kids Free.

Mozart Connection : The church where Wolfgang was baptized the day after his birth in 1756 and where his parents Leopold & Anna Maria Mozart were married in 1747.  Wolfgang performed many sacred works here and often played the huge church organ.

17. Saint Peter’s Cemetery ( Petersfriedhof ):

About Saint Peter’s Cemetery :  The oldest graveyard in Salzburg is the flower-filled Saint Peter’s Cemetery which has been in use since before 700AD .  Among the With wrought -iron headstones are the graves of Wolfgang’s sister Nannerl and his childhood friend Michael Haydn.  Both of their tombs sit at the entrance of the cliff-side catacombs which were first carved out of the rock face in 215AD and were mainly used as a secluded place of worship.  We had walked past their grave many times before realizing it was theirs, but it is impossible to miss taking up an entire wall in the entrance to the catacombs.

Although Wolfgang’s sister had Nannerl moved to Saint Gilgen with her husband, she moved back to Salzburg after she was widowed in 1801.  Nannerl returned with her two surviving kids ( of 3 ) and 4 step kids ( of 5 ) and worked as a music teacher until her death in 1829.  While she wasn’t allowed to further pursue he performing career as an adult because of the culture for women of marriage age in that era, Nannerl was the talented spark  that propelled the Mozart family and her younger brother Wolfgang.

You’ll love strolling the grounds of the cemetery which is one of the most peaceful spots on this free Mozart tour in Salzburg.  The oldest tombstone is from 1288AD and the cemetery was reserved for monks living in the neighboring monastery until it was opened to the public in 1454.  There was a lot of interesting tombs, great views of the High Salzburg Fortress, and the gated arcades were featured in the movie The Sound of Music.  Re-created on a Hollywood set, the arcades were the Von Trapps hid from the Nazis while making their escape at the end of the film.

Cemetery Hours : April-September 6:30am-7pm; October-March 6:30am-5:30pm.   Cemetery Cost : Free.   Catacombs Hours : May-September Daily 10am-6pm; October-April Daily 10am-5pm; Closed on holidays.   Catacombs Cost : Adults 2€; Kids 1.50€.

Mozart Tour Connection : The historic cemetery where Wolfgang’s sister Nannerl and his childhood friend Michael Haydn are buried.

18. Saint Peter’s Abbey ( Stiftskirche ):

About Saint Peter’s Abbey :  Founded in 696AD, Saint Peter’s Abbey is the oldest church in Salzburg and has a few great connections to Mozart.  At the age of 13, Wolfgang premiered Dominic Mass  here for his childhood friend Cajetan ( Dominikus ) Hagenauer who had recently entered Benedictine Monastery here.  Cajetan was 10 years older than Mozart, but they became friends as Hagenauer’s father owned the home Wolfgang’s family rented an apartment on Grain Lane ( Getreidegasse ) from 1743-1773, which he was born in.  Wolfgang later premiered an incomplete version of  Mass of C Minor  while visiting from Vienna in 1783 where is wife Constanze sang as one of the soprano soloists.  Just three years before Cajetan would be named the Abbot of Saint Peter’s Abbey ( 1786-1811 ).  Mozart’s friend Michael Haydn performed the music for the ordination of Abbot Hagenauer in 1786.

The inside of Saint Peter’s Abbey is stunning as the entire narrow nave is filled with gigantic framed murals under a painted ceiling canopy.  Saint Peter’s Abbey was established as part of a Benedictine Monastery in 696AD by Saint Rupert ( Frankish missionary & Bishop of Worms ) making it the  oldest continuous monastery in the German-speaking world.  Rupert had been given control of this former Roman town of Juvavum ( 15BC-476AD ) by the Duke of Bavaria ( Theodo ) to revive it into a Christian stronghold.  This spot was chosen for his church as there had already been an abbey for monks established here by  Severinus of Noricum  ( 410-482 ) in as early as 450AD.  Even more than the massive Dom Cathedral, Saint Peter’s is our favorite church interior on this free Mozart tour in Salzburg.

360 Degree Tour :  Amazing virtual tour  here .   Church Hours :  Daily 8am-Noon and 2:30-6:30pm; No visits during mass.   Church Website :   Here .

Mozart Tour Connection : Oldest church in Salzburg is where Mozart premiered Dominic Mass in 1769 an incomplete version of Mass of C Minor in 1783.  Later his childhood friend Cajetan Hagenauer would be named the Abbot of the Church in 1786.  Hagenauer’s father had owned the home Wolfgang’s family rented an apartment from 1743-1773, which he was born in.

19. Saint Peter’s Restaurant ( Stiftskulinarium ):

About Saint Peter’s Restaurant :  In addition to being our favorite restaurant in Salzburg, Saint Peter’s ( Stiftskulinarium ) is the oldest restaurant in the world dating back to 803AD, with the bakery near the cemetery going back even further to 700AD.  Alcuin of York, an English scholar attendant ( liegeman ) of Emperor Charlemagne first documented the restaurant in 803AD which was then written about many times throughout Medieval times.  Mozart’s sister Nannerl even wrote that her family dined here during Wolfgang’s visit to Salzburg in October of 1783.  Nannerl wrote “Papa ( Leopold ) and Henry had lunch at Saint Peter… made music … rained heavily”.

Composer Micheal Haydn, who was one Mozarts friends, the creator of the modern string quartet, and the little brother of famous composer Joseph Haydn also lived on the restaurant’s second floor ( 1760-63 ).   A dining hall named after him now sits in Micheal Haydn’s former apartment.  In 1809 French troops were even housed in Saint Peter’s Restaurant during Napoleon’s invasion.

Today Saint Peter’s Restaurant is world-renowned for its almost nightly  Mozart Dinner Concert Shows  ( more info ) in the Baroque ballroom which has been taking place since 1996.  The shows include a wonderful dinner along with highly talented singers & musicians, authentic 1700s-style costumes, and the perfect ballroom setting.  It’s hard to do a Mozart tour in Salzburg and not want to hear some authentic performers doing his music.  For us, this is the best Mozart Concert option in Salzburg especially since it includes a wonderful dinner at a historic restaurant.

Restaurant Hours :  Daily 11:30am-11pm ( reservations highly recommended ).   Restaurant Website :   Here .   Mozart Concert Time :  Night at 7:30pm; lasts 2.5 hours; doors open one hour early.   Mozart Concert Cost :   63-73€ with a 3-course meal ( drinks not included ).   Mozart Concert Website :   Here .

Mozart Tour Connection : Oldest restaurant in the world going back to 803AD is where the Mozart Family ate at and it has held almost nightly Mozart dinner concerts since 1996.  Wolfgang’s friend and fellow composer Micheal Haydn lived on the second floor.

Additional Mozart Sights In Salzburg:

20. house of mozart ( haus für mozart ):.

About The House For Mozart : Today’s 3-block-long Festival Hall Complex had once been part of the Saint Peter’s Benedictine Convent ( 1125-1583 ) for hundreds of years.  After the convent was closed, the Prince-Archbishop of Salzburg began turning it into the royal horse stables and riding school in stages from 1599-1693.  The riding school quickly became important to Salzburg’s upper class for horse training and riding competitions similar to the Spanish Riding School in Vienna.

The House for Mozart ( originally called the Small Festival Hall ) was built over part of the Medival horse stables in 1925 for the new home of the 5th annual Salzburg Festival.  As the name implies, this performance space is now mainly used for productions of Mozarts works and is one of three theaters in the three-block-long complex.  Outside of daily tours, the only time of the year the large theaters are typically used for performances is during the two-week long festival.

The year after the Small Festival Hall opened a new open-air theater was created inside the former Summer Riding School in 1926 as the Salzburg Festival was expanded.  Appropriately nicknamed  the Rock Riding School ( Felsenreitschule ) , this area was carved out of the Monchsberg Hill cliffside in 1693 with arched arcades serving as a 3-level horse viewing area.  The natural stone wall was the perfect backdrop for the new theater’s stage which was featured in the filming of the movie The Sound of Music.  Now serving as the lobby for the Rock Riding School Theater, the massive Karl Böhm Hall was the original indoor or Winter Riding School added to the complex in 1662.  This vast lobby is highlighted by a 600 square meter ceiling mural painted in 1690 depicting Turkish military exercises on horseback.

During their conversion into theaters, the House for Mozart and the Rock Riding School were connected with a large foyer completed covered in beautiful frescoes .  While the Nazis covered up the frescoes during their WW2 occupation of Salzburg, they were thankfully brought back to life in 1956.  After a lot of work, the painted lobby and original indoor theater ( Small Festival Hall ) were renovated as the new House for Mozart ( Haus für Mozart ) in 2006, celebrating 250 years since Mozart was born in Salzburg.

A third theater was added onto the complex in 1960 known as the Large Festival Hall ( Großes Festspielhaus ) which has one of the largest stages in the world at 100 meters wide with steel plate backdrop.  You can still see some of the original entrance arches on the outer walls in the foyer leading to the Large Festival Hall Theater as well as on the Western exterior of the complex.

Address :  Hofstallgasse 1.   Guided Tour Cost :  Adults 7€; Kids 4€.   Guided Tour Hours :  50 minute guided tours of the theaters are at 2pm daily ( also 9:30am, 2pm & 3:30pm in July & August ).   Website :   Here .

21. Salzburg Fortress Mozart Concerts :

About The Fortress Mozart Concerts :  Housed nightly inside the High Salzburg Castle from 1070, this is a pretty good concert but the average age of the guests feels like 102 years old.  With some much talent at the various Mozart shows around main reason to consider a concert here is the unique setting.

The Golden Hall on the third floor of the might castle was expanded in 1498 by the Prince-Archbishop as he created a series of lavish apartments for himself to retreat to in either the Summer month or times of trouble.  This pre-dated the Mirabell Summer Palace and gave the Prince-Archbishop epic views of Salzburg from the safety of his city within a city.  A 55-foot-long central beam is supported by four massive marble pillars to hold up the golden ceiling making the room a magical place for the concerts.  You get great views above town after the castle is normally closed, have the option to add on dining, and get to use the funicular plus castle tour access for an hour before the show.

Website :   Here .

22. Radisson Blu Mozart Concerts :

About The Radisson Blue Mozart Concerts :  Located inside a former brewery from the 1400s, the Radisson Blue is a great hotel in the heart of Salzburg along the river.  Their shows are very high quality and should be among the top three Mozart Concerts you consider with the dinner show at Saint Peter’s Restaurant being the most desired.  The only real drawback on this show compared to the one at Mirabell Palace is that the one at the Radisson Blue only happens 3 times a week.

The Radisson Blue was built in 1372 with the Renaissance Hall that the Mozart Concerts happen in going back to 1377.  In the basement, you can see foundations of the Medieval wall that was built here in 1172 and the property operated as the brewery Bräuhaus in der Gugl  1477 to 1922.  After overtaking the neighboring Old Town Hall, the brewery turned into a guesthouse during the great depression before the current hotel opened in 1992.

Concert Times :  Every Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday at 5pm.   Concert Location :  Kuenburg Hall ( New Residence on Mozart Square 1 ).   Website :   Here .

Featured On : Best Places To Stay In Salzburg .

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17 Free Things to Do in Salzburg: One Day Budget Itinerary

Salzburg has quickly become one of my favorite cities. How? Why? Well…

Not only does Salzburg offer a wide variety of experiences, but there are also numerous places to visit and activities to enjoy that are completely free and won’t break the bank . From history to breathtaking scenery, music to architectural beauty, there are costless and affordable things for everyone to do in Salzburg!

Today, I’ll help you discover the best free and affordable activities and attractions in Salzburg . And as a bonus, I’ve also included a budget-friendly one day Salzburg itinerary to help you make the most of your day in the city without spending too much money. Let’s dive in!

This post may contain affiliate links. I may receive a tiny commission at no additional cost to you from any qualifying purchases using the link.

Traveling is one of the most rewarding and enriching experiences in life. However, it does not have to be expensive or luxurious to be enjoyable.

In fact, sometimes the best way to travel is to embrace the simplicity and authenticity of the places we visit , and to immerse ourselves in the culture and nature of the destination.

This post should help you with that.

While there are plenty of free things to do in Salzburg, it’s important to remember that you’ll likely need to spend some money on experiences to make the most of your visit.

Many of the top attractions in the city have admission fees, but don’t worry — they’re affordable.

In fact, the last time I checked, most of the admission fees were only a few dollars .

You won’t have to spend more than about $20 on each one.

Nevertheless, the prices are definitely worth the value. You’ll find amazing experiences and beautiful sights that make the cost more than worth it.

Free Things to Do in Salzburg

Yes, it can be difficult to avoid spending money while traveling in Salzburg, but there are plenty of free activities and attractions that can make your trip unique, fun, and memorable.

And the best part?

You don’t even have to leave the Old Town Salzburg or the core area of the UNESCO Heritage Site of the Historic Center of Salzburg to find them.

All these free things to do are within walking distance of each other, and you can use the city’s infrastructure, like the funicular and elevator , to make getting around even easier. 

The Old Town of Salzburg is just a 10-to-15-minute walk from the train station , depending on your pace.

If you want to start your trip to Salzburg quickly and effortlessly, you can take a bus that will cut your travel time in half.

The Mirabell Palace and Garden is the closest free attraction to the train station, so it’s the first place we’ll talk about.

Note : The free activities and attractions listed below are arranged in the order you would naturally come across if you were starting from the train station . You can check the resources section of this post for the official websites of some attractions listed below.

1. Appreciate the Beauty of Mirabell Palace Marble Hall

One of the things that made me love Salzburg even more is that one of its highlights, the Mirabell Palace, is open to visitors for free. 

This 17th-century palace, which was reconstructed a century later, now partly serves as a government office. 

However, visitors are still allowed to enter and see its most impressive features — the magnificent Marble Hall and staircase.

Step inside to admire the intricate capitals and stucco work of the hall, as well as the charming cherubs that decorate the marble balustrade and the sculptures in the niches. 

The name Mirabell comes from the words ‘mirabile’ meaning admirable, and ‘bello’ meaning beautiful. 

Once you’ve visited the Marble Hall, one of the finest examples of European baroque architecture, you’ll surely agree with this choice of name.

2. Relive the Sound of Music Movie at Mirabell Garden

Visitors are also welcome to explore without a fee the beautiful Mirabell Palace garden, which is the most famous filming location for the Sound of Music movie in Salzburg.

Six parts of the garden were featured in the film, including the Pegasus Fountain, Grand Fountain, Hedge Theater, Dwarf Garden, Rose Garden, and Orangery.

As these areas still look very similar to how they appeared in the movie, fans of the Sound of Music will feel nostalgic when visiting.

For those who enjoy photography, Mirabell Garden offers stunning photo opportunities that you won’t want to miss in Salzburg.

The grand and small parterre of Mirabell Garden are oriented towards Hohensalzburg Fortress and provide inspiration for amazing photos.

If you want to learn more about Mirabell Palace and Garden, check out my post on 5 Reasons Why You Must Visit Mirabell Palace to make the most of your visit.

3. Watch the Sunrise at Hettwer Bastei (Bastion)

You can also experience a very special sunrise and sunset in Salzburg for free.

Simply head to the Hettwer Bastei bastion in Kapuzinerberg during the Golden Hour and you’ll be rewarded with one of the most magical and breathtaking views in Salzburg.

Hettwer Bastei offers an overlooking view of Old Town Salzburg with a closer look at Hohensalzburg Fortress.

You’ll love the spectacular moment when the setting or rising sun makes Hohensalzburg Fortress glow with warm light.

There are two ways to get to Hettwer Bastion: Stefan-Zweig-Weg and Imbergstiege. Both are accessible from Old Town Salzburg and near Mirabell Palace.

A tip: take the Stefan-Zweig-Weg path on your way up as it is less steep than Imbergstiege, which is mostly stairs.

If you’d like, you can bring snacks to Hettwer Bastion so you can eat while taking in the view of Old Town Salzburg during the Golden Hour.

There are benches in the bastion, so no need to worry about standing for too long.

For more information about getting to Hettwer Bastion, check out my article, Visiting Kapuzinerberg: Best Views of Old Town Salzburg , to help you make the most of your visit.

4. See the Best View of Old Town Salzburg from Müllnersteg

If you’re into photography or simply want to see a view straight out of a fairytale in Salzburg, Müllnersteg is a free place you can visit to satisfy your visual cravings.

Müllnersteg is a bridge over the Salzach River that offers a view of Old Town Salzburg, reminiscent of Mont Saint Michel in France.

From the bridge, you can see Old Town Salzburg rising above the Salzach River with Hohensalzburg Fortress on top.

The view includes the spire of the Evangelical Parish Salzburg Christ Church overlooking the Salzach River from the riverbank, adding charm to the picturesque scene.

If you’re coming from Mirabell Palace, you can quickly reach Müllnersteg through the northern gate of Mirabell Gardens. From there, it’s only a 5-minute walk to the bridge.

5. Romantic Walk at Marko-Feingold-Steg

If you’re traveling to Salzburg with your special someone, be sure to visit Marko-Feingold-Steg or Makartsteg, the footbridge closest to the southern gate of Mirabell Gardens.

Often called the Love Lock Bridge, it’s considered the most romantic bridge in Salzburg.

From here, you can see a lovely panoramic view of Old Town Salzburg, similar to the view from Müllnersteg but much closer.

With such a beautiful scene, it’s easy to understand why people love to commemorate their unbreakable bond by attaching padlocks to the bridge’s railings.

Like other viewpoints of Old Town Salzburg, it’s nice to watch the sunrise or sunset from Marko-Feingold-Steg.

However, since it’s easily accessible, it can get crowded during these golden hours, making the moment less special.

For a more intimate sunrise or sunset experience, I would recommend finding another location.

6. Be Charmed by the Wrought-Iron Shop Signs in Getreidegasse

Getreidegasse is another highlight of visiting Salzburg, and like Mirabell Palace and Garden, it’s free to visit!

This street is a unique shopping district in Salzburg, characterized by its wrought-iron shop signs and beautiful architecture, including charming doorways.

After exploring Getreidegasse, you might wish your hometown had a delightful shopping district like this.

In Getreidegasse, you’ll find a wide selection of shops selling everything from jewelry and antiques to leather goods and groceries.

However, aside from these and the wrought-iron shop signs, there are three things you won’t want to miss when visiting Getreidegasse.

First is the famous “puppet woman” with her brown basket, who has been selling puppets on this street since 1987.

Another is the Wieber shop, a traditional metalworking business that still manufactures these “advertising signs” by hand.

Last but not least is Mozart’s Birthplace, one of the highlights of Getreidegasse where you can learn more about Mozart and Salzburg’s musical heritage.

At the western end of Getreidegasse, you’ll find Saint Blaise’s Church, which looks magical thanks to the vines covering its facade.

7. Get Sound of Music Nostalgia from Pferdeschwemme

Just a few steps south of St. Blaise’s Church and Getreidegasse is the early 17th-century Horse Pond or Pferdeschwemme fountain.

Visiting this landmark is one of the free things you can do in Salzburg to get a glimpse of the events in the city that happened in the past.

In its heyday, Pferdeschwemme was where the prince archbishops’ parade horses were washed.

When you visit, take a look at the “Horse Tamer” statue and the unique frescoes on the back wall of the Horse Pond, which evoke some of the customs of that time.

What’s notable about Pferdeschwemme is that it was created by Johann Bernhard Fischer von Erlach. 

He is an Austrian architect, sculptor, engraver, and architectural historian whose Baroque architecture profoundly influenced and shaped the tastes of the Habsburg Empire.

Pferdeschwemme isn’t just for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts; fans of the Sound of Music movie will also feel nostalgic here as it was featured in the film.

If you’ve seen the movie, you’ll surely recall the scene where Maria and the Trapp children marvel at the famous square and unique Horse Pond during a carriage ride through Salzburg.

8. Discover Siegmundstor: The Oldest Tunnel in Austria

You don’t need to pay for a ride to see one of Austria’s notable infrastructures if you’re in Salzburg.

Siegmundstor, the oldest road tunnel in Austria, is located within the historic center of Salzburg, right next to Pferdeschwemme!

It passes through Mönchsberg, the mountain that serves as the natural wall of Old Town Salzburg to the west.

Like visiting Pferdeschwemme, seeing Siegmundstor offers a free glimpse into Salzburg’s past.

The tunnel dates back to the second half of the 18th century, during the rule of Prince-Archbishop Sigismund von Schrattenbach, who envisioned an easy way for people to move between Old Town Salzburg and the Riedenburg quarter.

Siegmundstor isn’t just a simple tunnel; it was decorated by the Hagenauer brothers with sculptures and inscriptions, making it an emblematic work of art.

If you look closely at the arches on the Old Town side, you’ll see an emblem with a portrait of Prince Archbishop Schrattenbach.

9. Admire the Interiors of the Franciscan Church

For architecture enthusiasts seeking visual pleasure or Catholics looking for a peaceful moment to pray during their visit to Salzburg, the Franciscan Church is one of the best free places to visit.

Its unique architecture combines Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque styles, making it one of the most distinctive churches in Salzburg.

Even without consulting Wikipedia, its architecture reveals its age and how it has evolved over the centuries.

In fact, the first church on this site was built in the eighth century!

I am particularly captivated by the impressive rib-vaulted ceiling of the Franciscan Church. The columns and ceiling blend seamlessly together.

When you look up at the ceiling, you’ll be inspired to take photos, too!

And wait until you see the nine chapels decorated in Baroque style by Johann Bernhard Fischer von Erlach in the eighteenth century.

The intricate stucco work on the chapels is as stunning as what you’ll see in Salzburg Cathedral.

The Franciscan Church also has a hidden gem to discover: the decoration on the staircase of the pulpit.

Dating back to the 12th century, it depicts a marble lion standing over a man with a painful grimace on his face, pushing his sword into the lion’s belly.

10. Wander in the St. Peter’s Abbey, Church, and Cemetery

Salzburg is one of the cities in Central Europe that offers a diverse experience, but its rich religious heritage sets it apart from its neighboring cities.

You can easily see this by visiting Saint Peter’s Abbey, one of the top free attractions in the city for discovering its religious heritage.

Its age is a testament to its significance: Saint Peter’s Abbey was founded in the 7th century, making it the oldest monastery in the German-speaking world.

Visitors are allowed to see three parts of Saint Peter’s Abbey: the Church, Cemetery, and Catacombs.

There is a small fee to enter the Catacombs, but visitors are free to wander around the Church and Cemetery, which are home to beautiful architecture and more.

Like the Franciscan Church, Saint Peter’s Church is an architectural gem and a feast for the eyes.

Remodeled several times throughout its more than 1300-year history, the church features a mix of architectural styles including Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, and Rococo.

As you explore its interiors, notice the large square murals on the walls, ceiling, and dome of the church; they tell religious stories.

In the other hand, the cemeteries in Salzburg are beautiful, and the cemetery at Saint Peter’s Abbey is no exception.

The elaborate wrought-iron grave crosses remove any creepy feelings one might have in a graveyard and give the impression that there is beauty even in death.

If you’re a fan of the Sound of Music movie and want to see all its filming locations in Salzburg, be sure to visit the Cemetery and Catacombs at Saint Peter’s Abbey.

11. Take Photo Souvenirs at Kapitelschwemme

Salzburg is a picturesque city with many spots where you can go for free to see its picture-perfect appearance for yourself.

One such spot is in front of Kapitelschwemme, the Chapter Fountain, in Kapitelplatz, the Chapter Square.

From here, you can see and take a photo of Hohensalzburg Fortress from a unique perspective below.

With such an iconic view, be sure to capture your photo souvenir of Salzburg here by asking someone to take your picture or taking a selfie!

Like Pferdeschwemme, Kapitelschwemme was once a place for horses, but this one was for them to drink water.

12. See Another Santa Scala in Cajetan Church

Salzburg is a city full of churches, many of which you can visit for free.

In addition to Saint Peter’s Church and the Franciscan Church, one church that is definitely worth seeing is the Cajetan Church, located just across from the Federal Province’s Courthouse in Kajetanerplatz.

Its construction is said to have started the Italian Baroque style in Salzburg.

The church is big, imposing, and only has a cross on top of its dome to show that it is a church.

So, when you arrive at Kajetanerplatz, you might even mistake it for a palace! However, the interiors give the opposite impression.

The inside of the Cajetan Church is filled with stucco works that create a holy, festive, and stately atmosphere.

And once you are inside, do not forget to look up at the dome, which is painted with the assumption of St. Cajetan to heaven.

Light streams in through the dome, giving the church an aura of holiness and purity.

If you can, try to visit the Cajetan Church on a Saturday between 11:00 am and 12:00 pm.

That is when you can see the church’s copy of Santa Scala or Holy Stairs in Rome, which for me, is the main reason to visit Cajetan Church.

The Holy Stairs are said to have been brought from the palace of Pilate in Jerusalem by the mother of Emperor Constantine.

Many believe these stairs are just as holy as the original ones.

13. See the Miraculous Fountain In St. Erhard’s Church

If you’re an architecture enthusiast or a Catholic like myself, you may be interested in visiting Saint Erhard’s Church.

Entry is free and it’s located in Nonntal, one of the oldest residential areas to the south of Festungsberg.

The church is not just a place of worship, but also an architectural gem that dates back to the city’s golden age of Italian Baroque style.

With a consistent Italian Baroque style inside, many regard it as one of the most notable religious landmarks in the city.

The dome and the surrounding high relief and stucco works are especially stunning.

The light that enters through the intricate dome casts a dramatic appearance on the sculpture of the founding bishops: Saint Vitalis, Saint Virgil, Saint Rupert, and Saint Martin of Tours.

When you visit, be sure to also check out the wall fountain, adorned with a lion’s head gargoyle.

The water in the fountain is said to come from a mineral spring with purifying and life-giving properties and was considered miraculous until the mid-19th century.

It’s still used as drinking water today.

If you’re curious about other fountains with drinking water in Salzburg, check out the map linked in the resources section of this post.

14. Listen to the Nuns at Nonnberg Abbey

Did you know that Salzburg is home to Nonnberg Abbey, the oldest continuously existing nunnery in the German-speaking world?

Located in Festungsberg beside Hohensalzburg Fortress, Nonnberg Abbey has been in existence since the early 8th century.

Featured in the movie The Sound of Music, it has become a popular attraction, especially for fans of the film.

However, there’s a unique and authentic experience waiting for you here.

Every morning, the nuns of Nonnberg Abbey sing Gregorian Chants in chorus, which is absolutely hair-raising.

This beautiful sound has been a long tradition of the nuns at Nonnberg Abbey.

To hear them sing, be sure to arrive at Nonnberg Abbey by 6:45 am.

If you come during midday, you can still enter Nonnberg Church and explore its cemetery to see the beautiful wrought iron grave crosses.

Entrance is free! 

For more information about Nonnberg Abbey, please check out the post “ Visiting Nonnberg Abbey in Salzburg: Tips and Information .”

15. Relax with the View of the Alps from Richterhöhe

Salzburg, being only a few kilometers away from the Alps, offers several free places where you can unwind and enjoy the mountain views.

These spots are great alternatives to expensive shops and restaurants with nice views, especially on sunny, dry, and warm days.

One of these best places for a peaceful and picturesque experience in Salzburg is Richterhöhe — the highest peak of Mönchsberg — the mountain next to Festungsberg.

At an elevation of 507 meters, here, you’ll be rewarded with unobstructed views of the Alps.

You can also see a stunning view of Hohensalzburg Fortress, which is especially great for photographers.

But, that’s not all. Richterhöhe is part of the medieval fortifications around the city, so you’ll see medieval towers and crenelated walls along the way.

What’s more? There are also benches facing the view where you can take a break and relax.

If you’re from Hohensalzburg Fortress, you can expect to have a 10-minute hike to reach Richterhöhe.

For more information, check out the post “ Monchsberg and The 5 Things to Do on This Mountain .”

16. Watch the Sunset from Mönchsberg

Watching the sunset in Salzburg from the most unique perspective of the Old Town is free, too!

The sunset spot is called Humboldt Terrace and it’s also located in Mönchsberg.

Humboldt Terrace was built in the 17th century as a cavalier of the Mönchsberg fortifications under Prince Archbishop Paris Lodron and served as a gun emplacement to combat the threat of the Thirty Years’ War.

Nestled on the side of a mountain cliff, this hidden gem is definitely worth considering.

From this former military lookout, you can enjoy some of the best views of Salzburg.

You will see the entire northern part of the city, stretching all the way to Kapuzinerberg, Salzach River, and Hohensalzburg Fortress atop Festungsberg.

Every part of the Old City is visible, and you can even see the winding shape of the Salzach River.

To reach Humboldt Terrace from Old Town Salzburg, take the Mönchsberg elevator.

Once you’re at the top, it’s just a short hike northward to Humboldt Terrace, passing by Museum der Moderne.

Along the trail, you’ll find a stone staircase on your right that leads down to the platform.

Humboldt Terrace has benches where you can relax, but there are only a few of them.

If you’re interested in history, you’ll find the information board at Humboldt Terrace quite fascinating.

Spoiler alert: it’s about the former Trompeterschlössl on Kapuzinerberg and the regulation of the Salzach River in the 19th century. 

If you missed reading my article about Mönchsberg, here’s the link to the article ( 5 Things to Do in Monchsberg ) to learn more about Humboldt Terrace. 

17. Climb to Franziskischlössl on top of Kapuzinerberg

For those who want to take their time exploring Salzburg, hiking in Kapuzinerberg is a great way to experience the natural beauty of the city’s historic center.

The hiking trail is free and open to everyone, and along the way, you’ll see breathtaking views of Old Town Salzburg, a higher perspective of Hohensalzburg Fortress, and hidden gems like Mozart’s monument and a wooden fountain.

The hike extends from Hettwer Bastion to Franziskischlössl, the fortress at the top of the mountain.

The round trip can take between 1.5 and 2.5 hours, depending on your pace.

For more information, you can check out the article about visiting Kapuzinerberg again.

Affordable Things to Do in Salzburg

While it’s great to save money by visiting only the free attractions and experiences in the city, it would be a shame to miss out on the city’s highlights, especially when admission fees and tickets cost only a few dollars or euros.

1. Explore Mozart’s Birthplace

As you explore Getreidegasse, one of the highlights of Salzburg that you’ll encounter is Mozart’s Birthplace.

This museum, dedicated to the life and legacy of the famous composer, is a unique attraction that can only be found in Salzburg.

When you step inside, you’ll discover a wealth of information about Mozart, from his childhood to his lasting impact on the world of music.

You’ll see the first musical instruments he played, learn about his family and their influence on his work, and much more.

His story is not only fascinating but also inspiring, as you’ll see how he overcame challenges and adversity to become one of the greatest musicians of all time.

Don’t miss this opportunity to learn more about Mozart and his incredible life.

If you want to learn more about Mozart’s Birthplace, here’s my article where you can find insights and visiting information— Mozart’s Birthplace: Interesting Things to Discover Inside .

2. Visit Hohensalzburg Fortress

If you have a very limited time in Salzburg, you can skip other highlights of the city but not Hohensalzburg Fortress. 

This fortress, perched atop Festungsberg, offers a wealth of experiences for visitors.

From Salzburg’s rich history to its musical heritage, from its breathtaking views to a few fascinating museums, there’s so much to see and do at Hohensalzburg Fortress.

And if you’re a fan of old architecture, you’ll love exploring the Princely Chambers.

Don’t be intimidated by the fortress’s location on top of a mountain – it’s easily accessible from Old Town Salzburg via a funicular, so getting there is half the fun!

To learn more about what Hohensalzburg Fortress has to offer, check out my article “ Visiting Salzburg Fortress Hohensalzburg: What to Do Inside .”

Here’s where you can check the current price of the entry tickets to Hohensalzburg Fortress .

3. Boat Ride in Salzach River

River, city, mountains—Salzburg has a beautiful landscape. What’s the most relaxing way to explore it? A cruise in Salzach River. 

During the cruise, you’ll have the opportunity to join a boat tour along the Salzach River, which will showcase the highlights of the city from a unique perspective on the water.

As you sit back and relax, you’ll glide along the river, taking in the magical skyline of Salzburg.

 You’ll also have the chance to unwind as you enjoy breathtaking views of the Hagen and Tennen mountains, as well as panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape.

If you’re interested, here’s where you can check the current price of the Salzach River cruise tickets .

4. Discover DomQuartier Museums and Salzburg Cathedral

Interested in discovering Salzburg’s heritage in one shot? DomQuartier is the place to be.

This stately compound, located in the heart of the city, is composed of several attractions that can be accessed with a single ticket.

In total, DomQuartier offers nine different experiences that encompass religious heritage, history, art, and nature.

Some of the most interesting parts include the State Rooms of the Residenz, where you can catch a glimpse of the lives of the prince-archbishops, the terrace above the cathedral arches which offers beautiful views of the Old Town center, and the Cathedral Museum where you can discover the treasures of the archdiocese of Salzburg.

For art lovers, there’s the internationally acclaimed exhibition of European painting in the Residenz Gallery and the Chamber of Art and Wonders which features exhibits and curiosities from art and nature.

If you’re interested in learning about who ruled Salzburg for centuries, be sure to visit the Long Gallery.

You can also discover Salzburg’s religious heritage at St. Peter’s Museum and Cathedral Organ Loft, where you’ll find exhibits from the Archabbey of Saint Peter including timeless religious treasures.

Lastly, don’t miss out on the special exhibitions in North Oratory.

You can learn more about DomQuartier and the current ticket prices for entry to Domquartier here .

5. Explore and Attend a Concert in Salzburg Cathedral

Salzburg Cathedral is not only the spiritual center of Salzburg but also one of the city’s architectural highlights, making it a must-visit attraction.

There are many things I can tell you about the architecture of Salzburg Cathedral, but it’s stuccoes are what caught my attention the most.

The cathedral’s magnificent interiors are heavily elaborated with unique stuccoes, which are outlined with gray paint to give them extra visual dimensions.

When visiting Salzburg Cathedral, you can learn so much not only about the history of the cathedral and important architectural details of this religious structure but also about Catholicism — all discussed by the audio guides.

So, consider acquiring audio guides when you visit because they are key to learning and enjoying more of your visit.

Another interesting feature of Salzburg Cathedral is its organs.

The cathedral has five organs, giving its visitors an extraordinary listening experience that’s unique among churches north of the Alps.

If you would like to experience it for yourself, I suggest attending the Organ Concert at Midday .

To learn more about Salzburg Cathedral, here’s my “ Salzburg Cathedral Complete Guide ” that includes everything that you must know when you visit.

One Day Salzburg Itinerary (on a Budget)

Salzburg has over a dozen free and affordable things to do, so it’s easy to spend a day there on a budget.

However, if you only have one day in Salzburg, it’s not recommended to only do the free activities and visit the admission-free places of interest.

It’s a good idea to include at least one of these four attractions in your itinerary: Hohensalzburg Fortress, Salzburg Cathedral, Mozart’s Birthplace, or DomQuartier.

But if you need a ready-made itinerary or an idea of how you can spend a day in Salzburg without breaking a bank, you arrived at the right place.

Let’s start!

If possible, try to spend the whole day in Salzburg, from sunrise to sunset.

This will allow you to make the most of your visit and see the best sights in the city without the crowds of tourists and during the golden hours.

To fit everyone, I made the train station of Salzburg as our starting point of this trip. 

By the way, here are more ways to explore Salzburg:

Old Town Salzburg Walking Tour Map (Highlights & Viewpoints)

Two Days in Salzburg Itinerary: Old Town and a Day Trip

Three Days in Salzburg Itinerary: Complete And Laid Back

Click to open in a new tab.

Morning in Salzburg

The morning part of this one-day budget itinerary is designed to let you experience the free highlights of Salzburg without the crowds.

We’ll aim to visit Mirabell Palace, Mirabell Gardens, and Getreidegasse early in the morning before these places get busy during midday.

The first destination on this itinerary is Hettwer Bastion , where you can watch the sunrise.

However, if the weather isn’t favorable, it’s better to go straight to Mirabell Garden .

Keep in mind that sunrise in Salzburg happens around 5:15 am during summer and almost 8:00 am during winter.

To get to Hettwer Bastion quickly, you can take the bus to Makartplatz. This will cut the 15-minute walking time from the train station in half.

Makartplatz is also where the southern gate of Mirabell Garden is located, so it’s convenient whether you’re going to Hettwer Bastion or Mirabell Palace or Garden.

After visiting Mirabell Palace, the next stop is Getreidegasse , which is located on the other side of the Salzach River. If you haven’t had breakfast yet, there are many options to choose from on Getreidegasse.

For a better experience (romantic) in getting to Getreidegasse, cross the river via Marko-Feingold-Steg bridge .

Exploring Getreidegasse can take anywhere from a few minutes to an hour, depending on whether you want to eat or spend more time taking pictures and looking at the small details.

While you’re there, you might also want to visit Mozart’s Birthplace , which usually takes at least an hour to explore.

From Getreidegasse, you have several options for your next destination, including nearby attractions like Pferdeschwemme , Seigmundstor , Franciscan Church , and Saint Peter’s Abbey .

Any of these attractions should keep you busy until lunchtime.

The next activity on the itinerary is a noontime organ concert in Salzburg Cathedral . 

If you think you’ll be hungry before noon, it’s a good idea to have lunch before heading to the cathedral.

Afternoon in Salzburg

In the afternoon, we’ll aim to make the most of your time at Hohensalzburg Fortress by visiting every part of it.

Keep in mind that, in addition to the main parts of the fortress and the castle museum, Hohensalzburg Fortress also has four other museums worth seeing.

It may take you 3 to 4 hours to see everything in the fortress.

After visiting Hohensalzburg Fortress, you have three options.

First, you can spend time outdoors enjoying the incredible views.

You could either hike to the viewpoints in Monchsberg like Richterhöhe or Humboldt Terrace for breathtaking experiences or take a relaxing cruise on the River Salzach .

If the weather isn’t nice, your other options are to visit some of the churches, such as Nonnberg Abbey, Cajetan Church, and Saint Erhard’s Church , or to explore DomQuartier .

If you’re staying in Salzburg tonight, here’s a unique, very interesting, and budget-friendly tour you can join — Salzburg Ghost Tour .

Resources: A Day in Salzburg

For information about the different tourist attractions you can visit for free in Salzburg, such as visiting information and announcements, please refer to the links provided below.

• Map of Salzburg
• DomQuartier Salzburg
• Franciscan Church Salzburg
• St. Peter’s Abbey
• Cajetan Church
• St. Erhard’s Church

If you’re planning a trip to Salzburg and still creating your itinerary, these articles can help you discover tourist attractions in Salzburg that may interest you:

Maximize your Salzburg adventure by checking out these Salzburg Travel Inspiration posts. They’ll help you find the perfect experiences to suit your preferences

5 Beautiful Day Trips From Salzburg (Nearest Destinations)

10 Unique Things to Do in Salzburg, Austria

The Beauty of Salzburg: 7 Beautiful Things to See

5 Spots In Salzburg to see Sunset or Sunrise (With a Map)

20 Sights and Landmarks in Salzburg: History & Architecture

Click to open in a new tab .

Where to Stay in Salzburg

If you’re planning to stay in Salzburg for a couple of days or more and haven’t booked your accommodation yet, you can use this link to find the best hotel deals in Salzburg .

The hotel browser features a map to help you quickly find a hotel in the most convenient location.

It’s a good idea to plan ahead when visiting Salzburg, as it’s a popular destination and accommodations can fill up quickly. To ensure you have a place to stay, it’s best to book your rooms well in advance of your travel dates.

Where to Go Next After Old Town Salzburg

Before you go, be sure to check out the beautiful destinations that are just a short bus ride away from Old Town Salzburg.

Some of these places are not to be missed for many reasons, such as the ones listed below.

• Hellbrunn Palace — Mirabell Palace is a fascinating palace in Salzburg, Austria. It is a marvel of engineering, a work of art, and a 17th-century prank (Trick Fountains) that visitors now and then enjoy. Learn more : 5 Things to Do in Hellbrunn Palace .
• Hohenwerfen Fortress — Conde Nast Traveler mentioned it as one of the most beautiful fortresses in Europe. I couldn’t agree more! It is well-preserved, perched on a hilltop, and has a spectacular birds of prey show. Discover : 5 Reasons to visit Hohenwerfen Fortress .
• St. Gilgen — It is one of the most charming villages in Austria. Nestled in the Alps, this village beside a lake is a true gem you’d love to wander. That’s true, especially with its cute and colorful houses with murals and flowers. See how beautiful it is : 7 Things to Do in St. Gilgen .
• Berchtesgaden — It’s the Bavarian alpine town that’s only 50 minutes away from Salzburg by bus. It’s a must-see for all nature lovers, photographers, and wanderers. The appearance of Konigssee and the view from Eagle’s Nest are stunning. Check this out: Berchtesgaden Day Trip From Salzburg .

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One Day in Salzburg: How to see Salzburg in 24 Hours (by a Local Guide)

Mozart’s birthplace, the city of music, and the host of the world’s largest classical music festival, as well as home to Europe’s best-preserved medieval fortress, it may seem impossible to experience Salzburg from top to bottom in only one day. But while one day in Salzburg may not be enough to see and do everything the city has to offer, it is certainly possible to see all the essentials in Salzburg in 24 hours.

I have been working as a Rikscha Driver and in Hostels for years before I founded the Free Walking Tour Salzburg in 2018. Considering many backpackers only stay one night in Salzburg, the question of what to see in Salzburg in one day was baked into the job. Thus, this itinerary for 24 hours in Salzburg has been in the works for a decade. Now that your time is limited let’s get right into our one day in Salzburg.

Is One Day in Salzburg enough?

Salzburg can be seen in one day, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t more to see and do in Salzburg. The purpose of this 24 hour Salzburg travel itinerary is to show you how to make the most of your time if you have a limited amount. As a result, you’ll get to see the city’s Old Town in all its glory.

In case you are still on the fence on how long to stay in Salzburg, check out the Free Walking Tours guide on how long to stay in Salzburg !

Considerations when in Salzburg for One Day

Using this Itinerary for Salzburg in 24 hours, you won’t miss any of the essentials. However, there will be considerations depending on your individual interests and conditions. You could even visit the essentials in Salzburg in less than 24 hours. So, you can choose what activities and attractions you wish to pursue further in your one-day stay in Salzburg.

Should you get a 24-hour Salzburg Card?

You should get a Salzburg Card, as soon as you visit two museums or more . Let’s say it’s your desire to see the inside of Mozart’s birthplace and take the funicular to the fortress. The fortress is €16,30 and the birthplace is €12,-. The Salzburg Card is €27,- or €30,-, depending on the season. Therefore, you would pay less or the same, if you purchase a Salzburg Card instead of paying individual entrance fees.

Should you take the Untersberg Cable Car when in Salzburg for a Day?

The Untersberg Cable car is one of the best things you can do with a Salzburg Card. The trip to the Untersberg Cable Car from Salzburg  will take you about half a day. However, if you would like to get to the top of a mountain during your 24 hours in Salzburg, go for it! You can manage to see the sights in our one-day itinerary for Salzburg in half a day and after lunch takes bus 25 to the cable car.

HINT: The Untersberg Cable Car and bus 25 alone make the Salzburg Card worth buying. In this article, you can find out why. Get your Salzburg Card online and enter the museums, even if only for a moment when you roam around in the morning before you take the cable car.  They are all included.

Should you enter the Hohensalzburg Fortress, if you have one day in Salzburg?

When you only have one day in Salzburg, you have to make some decisions. You can’t do everything in Salzburg in one day, but the fortress is a good choice. In my opinion, it is a must to see the city from above and the fortress offers some of the best views of the city.

I would recommend the fortress if you are only paying for one attraction in Salzburg. If you are visiting a second attraction such as Mozart’s birthplace, it is again worth buying a Salzburg Card.

Should you include the Original Sound of Music Tour in your One Day Salzburg Itinerary?

There are die-hard fans whose entire purpose of spending a day in Salzburg is to see The Sound of Music filming locations. For Austrians, this is hard to understand since most of them have not seen the film, but I am half-Dutch and fully understand if the film is close to your heart.

As with the Untersberg Cable Car, the Sound of Music Tour will take you half a day. Therefore, it is possible to include it in your one-day itinerary for Salzburg. There is original Sound of Music tours in the morning and in the afternoon, so just like with the Untersberg Cable Car, you can see the city in the morning and head for the Sound of Music Tour after lunch. Here you can book the Sound of Music Tour.

Can you take a Day Trip during your Salzburg One Day Visit?

What a strange question you might think. But apart from the “Sound of Music” hype, the Sound of Music Tour is actually a good way to make a day trip in half a day, as it takes you into the lake district. But if you do not care about the movie, you could also spend the afternoon of your day in Salzburg taking the Salt Mine Tour, the Bavarian Mountain Tour, or the Lakes and Mountains Tour by the same company.

The Perfect Salzburg in One Day Itinerary – Ideas for One Day in Salzburg

Here is an overview of what is included in our plan for one day in Salzburg:

• Mirabell Gardens & Mirabell Palace
• Traditional Austrian Cafe for Breakfast (optional)
• Getreidegasse (shopping street) & Mozart’s Birthplace
• University Church: Marvel at Baroque Architecture
• Festival District & Concert Hall (Festspielhaus)
• Saint Peter’s Monastery: The Origin of Salzburg
• Salzburg Cathedral (Salzburger Dom)
• Hohensalzburg Fortress (outside and/or inside)
• Residence Square (the main square of the old town)
• Mozart Square & Mozart Statue
• Seeing the City from above (at least once)
• Culinary Recommendations from Mozart Chocolate to Street Food

One Day in Salzburg: Things to do in Salzburg in One Day

1. start at the mirabell gardens.

Mirabell Gardens is the best place to start exploring Salzburg in most cases. That’s where all my private walking tours start. Mirabell square is a hub for public transport. If you arrive in Salzburg by bus, train or plane , you will always get to either Mirabell square or the train station and the train station is only 5 minutes walking from Mirabell.

Mirabell Gardens is also the boundary of the old town on the right side of the river. Therefore, we can follow a perfect path straight through the garden before we cross the river and dive deeper into what’s considered the actual old town.

Begin your exploration of Mirabell Garden at the Pegasus fountain in front of the Do-Re-Mi Steps next to the palace and head to the other end. In case you want to take a closer look at the garden, make sure to check out our ultimate guide to the Mirabell Gardens.

2. Cake for Breakfast at Cafe Bazar (optional)

In case you have not had breakfast yet, it’s time for cake. Just kidding. Cafe Bazar is my favorite Austrian coffee house in Salzburg. Bazar can be found by leaving Mirabell Garden heading toward Makartplatz, where you can gaze at Mozart’s residence on the opposite side of the street before turning right after Landestheater and heading toward the river.

Before reaching the banks of the river you find Hotel Sacher on the lefthand side. Hotel Sacher is the inventor of the Sachertorte, the most famous Austrian Cake, and would also be a breakfast option but I personally prefer Cafe Bazar which is the oriental building right next to Hotel Sacher.

The best Austrian Coffee Houses are not about the best coffee and not about affordable breakfast either but about the atmosphere. If you would really like to have cake for breakfast, they are about that too but real breakfast consists of something like bread rolls and jam.

If you find the waiters in traditional Austrian coffeehouses rude and wonder why that is, here is an answer and an explanation of what these coffeehouses are anyway all about .

3. Stroll down Getreidegasse and see Mozart’s Birthplace

You cross the Salzach river via Feingoldsteg (formerly Makartsteg), the love lock bridge of Salzburg, from Mirabell Garden and Makart Square (or from your breakfast at Cafe Bazar). Once you are on the other side of the river, you should search for a passage between the buildings (Durchhäuser) and walkthrough.

That’s how you reach Getreidegasse.

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was born on Getreidegasse, Salzburg’s most famous street, and Mozart’s birthplace is one of the most popular Salzburg attractions. Stroll down Getreidegasse until you find a yellow building with an Austrian flag on the right-hand side. It is also easy to spot in the high season because plenty of tourists take pictures of it.

Unless you purchase a Salzburg Card, you don’t need to see the interior of Mozart’s birthplace , if you have only one day in Salzburg. If you purchase a Salzburg Card, go for it! It’s included.

4. University Church: Marvel at Baroque Architecture

During the daytime, you will find Grünmarkt behind the buildings in Getreidegasse and Mozart’s birthplace. It is a farmers’ market but nothing specOn the square behind Mozart’s birthplace is the University church, which is a stunning example of baroque architecture. Make sure to have a look inside!

5. Visit the Festival District and see the Concert Hall

Behind the University Church, you find the Festival District. While the festival district is inconspicuous and never crowded outside of the festival, the Concert Hall (Festspielhaus) is where the world’s largest festival of classical music takes place every year for six weeks in summer.

The concert hall was also used for the Sound of Music movie’s Edelweiss song. That’s right, it’s right at the end of the movie before the Trapp family escapes, but the only way you can see the actual place without attending a concert is to take the 2 pm guided tour of the concert hall.

6. Saint Peter’s Monastery: The Origin of Salzburg

Another corner away is Saint Peter’s monastery which dates back to the year 696, to the founding of Salzburg. Saint Rupert founded the monastery and the city of Salzburg in 696. Not only is Salzburg Austria’s oldest city but Saint Peter’s monastery is the german-speaking region’s oldest monastery. During your visit to Saint Peter’s, you should look inside the church as well as walk through the cemetery.

Although you may recognize the cemetery from the Sound of Music when the Trapp family is hiding behind the graves, Hollywood was not allowed to shoot at the cemetery, so you actually see a Hollywood set in the movie.

Check out this article about the Sound of Music Filming Locations in Salzburg if you would like to learn about all the locations that were used in the Sound of Music movie in Salzburg .

7. Salzburg Cathedral: The Heart of Salzburg

Just another corner away, you find the Salzburg Cathedral (Salzburger Dom). The Salzburg Cathedral was built in 774 but was damaged by fire at the end of the 16th century, and through reconstruction became the first baroque church of Austria. It is the seat of the archbishop of Salzburg, one of only two archbishops in Austria.

But there is even more to the Cathedral. It is the heart of Salzburg’s old town. Each year, events such as the Christmas market in December, Rupertikirtag in September, considered the most traditional folk festival in Austria, or the Jedermann theater, part of the Salzburg Festival, are held in front and around the cathedral.

The cathedral is a must-see during your one day in Salzburg. I once would have said it was a must to see the inside of the cathedral, but since the church began charging an entrance fee in 2021, the interior is no longer a must.

8. Hohensalzburg Fortress: Salzburg’s Landmark

The Hohensalzburg Fortress is Salzburg’s most prominent landmark and the city’s namesake. So far, we have seen it almost every step of the way. It’s up to you whether you want to see it from the inside. I enjoy visiting the Hohensalzburg Fortress most of all Salzburg’s sites. The interior looks like a small city with restaurants, a church, and a few museums and viewpoints.

To find out what you need to know before you go to the Hohensalzburg Fortress, read this article !

To see the essentials of the fortress takes you about two hours. The entrance fee in 2022 is €16,30 without the Salzburg Card. I recommend the fortress if you only pay for one attraction in Salzburg but if you are on a zero budget or have other plans for the afternoon, you can also safely skip it.

9. Residence Square: The Main Square of Salzburg

What you can not skip is residence square. The Residence Square is the main square of the old town where the two episcopal residences are located. Today, they house the two best history museums in town, instead of the archbishop. If you have a Salzburg Card and/or are a history buff, you might want to visit. In the middle of Residence Square, you find the largest baroque fountain north of the alps.

10. Commemorate Mozart  at the Mozart Statue

Mozart Square is right around the corner from our previous stop. From Residence Square, you can actually see the Mozart statue. Mozart Square was erected to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Mozart’s death.

The erection of the statue also marked the beginning of the Mozart cult in Salzburg as well as the revival of classical music that still lasts today, which led to the Salzburg Festival and to Salzburg being nicknamed the city of music and the city of Mozart. Your one-day itinerary for Salzburg wouldn’t be complete without paying tribute to Mozart at the Mozart Statue.

11. Seeing the City from one of the City Mountains

Salzburg is surrounded by two small city mountains. In my opinion, every visitor to Salzburg should see the city from above at least once. Here are some options:

• If you visited the Hohensalzburg Fortress , you already visited one of the best viewpoints in Salzburg.
• On the left side of the river, Mönchsberg surrounds the old town like a wall. Mönchsberg is, therefore, an ideal location for sightseeing hikes and taking pictures. The hike takes about an hour and is incredibly easy since it’s flat once you reach the top. Here are some impressions from the hike and tips on landscape photography in Salzburg on the Free Walking Tour Blog.
• If you are not up for a hike, take the elevator to the Museum of Modern Art (Museum der Moderne). It only takes a minute and provides you with one of the best views on Mönchsberg mountain.
• Salzburg’s Kapuzinerberg, on the other hand, stands at a distance from the historic buildings on the left side of the river and therefore provides the best panorama of the city. Moreover, it’s a great place for escaping the city for a moment and a recreational area for the locals, if you hike further into the forest. Here is an article on city hiking in Salzburg including Kapuzinerberg and Mönchsberg .

What to Eat during your One Day Trip to Salzburg

Eating is not only a necessity but should be an essential part of the things to do in Salzburg in one day. Here are my top recommendations for food experiences:

Sausages or Bosna: The Best Austrian Fast Food

In addition to being the best Austrian fast food, sausages are essentially the only Austrian street food. Sausage stands are everywhere in Salzburg and most of them are good. Some of them only appear in the evening and are open until the early morning hours. If you would like to know everything there is to know about sausages in Austria, I would recommend reading this article about Austrian Street food on the Free Walking Tour Blog . TLDR.: Bosna at the Original Bosna stand is unique to Salzburg and my favorite sausages are at the Salzburg Grill Imbiss in Wiener Philharmoniker Gasse .

Traditional Austrian Coffee House Culture

We mentioned traditional Austrian Coffee houses already at the beginning of our Salzburg one-day itinerary for breakfast. Cafe Tomaselli is another recommendation. Tomaselli is more touristy than Bazar but it’s also the oldest cafe in Salzburg. Even Mozart had his coffee there. One more coffee house suggestion, Konditorei Fürst, brings me to my next culinary recommendation.

Try the Original Mozart Chocolate

The Mozart Chocolate was invented by Konditorei Fürst for the 100th anniversary of Mozart’s death. A prize was awarded to Fürst for his invention, but that led to imitations. Nowadays there are more than 10 manufacturers in Salzburg but Fürst Mozart chocolate is still handmade and only sold by the Fürst shops in Salzburg. The original is pricey but worth trying when in Salzburg for a day. Read this article on the Free Walking Tour Blog to find out the truth about the Mozart chocolate .

Salzburg Nockerl: Salzburg-Style Souffle

Salzburger Nockerl is a sweet dessert that is specific to Salzburg. It’s kind of like a souffle. The form of the souffle is three hills, which represent the three city mountains in Salzburg. The Nockerl is made of egg and sugar. Sweet, fluffy, and heaven-sent, it is a great dish to indulge in while in Salzburg for a day, and the perfect way to end your meal. However, while I am from Salzburg, I have only eaten Salzburger Nockerl twice in my life. I like them but we don’t usually eat them. At least not regularly.

Augustinerbräu: Austria’s Largest Beer Hall

While Salzburg is Austria’s fourth-largest city it has the largest beer hall in Austria. The Müllnerbräu or Augustinerbräu features 1300 seats only in the garden and there are three beer halls inside. When you get there, you grab a mug, wash it and get the beer. But there is more than beer. The Augustinerbräu has a food court and the food court is a great way of trying different Austrian dishes. Especially if you are several people, you can order several portions of small dishes and share.

Where to Stay in Salzburg for a Day

With limited time you will want to stay in a central location, close to the old town. Most popular accommodation options are in the old town and within walking distance from the station but if you opt for certain budget accommodation options you might end up at the outskirts which could force you to use public transport and lose valuable time. That is not a problem if you are staying longer but with 24 hours in Salzburg, you will want to choose the location.

Here are some central hotels and hostels for every budget:

• If you are into luxury accommodation , the Hotel Sacher and the Hotel Bristol are not only the most central luxury hotels in Salzburg but they are more than mere accommodation. Their histories reach back into the 19th and while the five-star superior hotel Sacher spreads imperial charm, Hotel Bristol permeates the charm of the nobility of bygone times. During the filming of the Sound of Music, the actors stayed at Hotel Sacher, but Christopher Plummer stayed at Hotel Bristol because they had a piano and he wanted to play it. There is still a piano at the bar today.
• The Hotel Goldener Hirsch might be the right choice for you if you want a luxury hotel with a traditional Austrian touch . Due to its location next to Mozart’s birthplace on Getreidegasse, Goldener Hirsch will save you time during your one-day trip to Salzburg.
• The Hotel Blaue Gans is the neighbor of Goldener Hirsch but instead of traditional Austrian charm, Blaue Gans features boutique hotel-style while still being in the five-star luxury segment of hotels.
• The Arte Hotel Salzburg presents a more affordable boutique hotel option and maybe the most convenient accommodation if you only have one day in Salzburg. Located next to the station, only 36 meters from the train tracks on the way to the old town, you can’t find a more efficient location to explore Salzburg in 24 hours. Plus there is no breakfast location more stunning in Salzburg than on the 16th floor of the Arte Hotel.
• The Priesterseminar at Makartplatz is on the same square as Hotel Bristol yet presents a great budget accommodation in a most central location next to Mirabell Garden.
• Backpackers on a budget have two options: the Yoho Hostel (where I worked for eight years) and the A&O Hostel at the train station. The Yoho Hostel is located on the way from the train station to the old town and, therefore, is also ideal to drop your luggage on the way to Mirabell for a headstart.

Check out Booking.com for more accommodation options in Salzburg . Not only are they always offering the best rates, but their customer service is impeccable, too.

Getting around during your One Day in Salzburg

By far the best way of getting around Salzburg is on foot. None of the must-see sights of Salzburg are more than 10 minutes walking from each other. If you follow the above itinerary for 24 hours in Salzburg, they are not even 5 minutes apart.

Most of the old town is a pedestrian area anyway and even if there would be public transport to the major sights, waiting for the bus would take longer than walking to the next stop on your exploration.

If you also stick to one of the above places we recommend for staying with one day in Salzburg, you are good to walk anywhere to make the most of your 24 hours in Salzburg.

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Salzburg in One Day: The Perfect Itinerary for Independent Travelers

Explorer’s note: Some links in this post are affiliate links. If you make a booking through them, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps us keep providing tours and top-notch travel advice.

There are certain ingredients for the perfect day in Salzburg. In this article, I will give them to you. This article will help design your day from start to finish, so you don’t miss anything.

Listen to the Episode on the Free Walking Tour Podcast instead!

How to get to Salzburg?

Austria borders seven other countries. Therefore Salzburg is on the route between Munich, Prague, Vienna, and Budapest, but travelers also come from Italy and Slovenia.

No matter if you arrive by train, bus, or plane, you always either arrive directly at the train station or take a bus, from the bus terminal in the south or the airport to the station, or Mirabell Square. The station is 10 minutes walking from Mirabell, and Mirabell is the perfect starting point to explore Salzburg.

If you arrive in Salzburg by car, you either have to pay for parking in one of the old town’s garages or park your vehicle at least 30 minutes walking from the city center to find free parking.

Is one day in Salzburg enough?

As much as I would like to talk you into staying longer, telling you about all the little details you can discover in the old town and all the beautiful places in the surroundings, I have to be honest. You can see and do the most important things in Salzburg in one day. Visit the fortress, see Mozart’s birthplace, stroll through Mirabell garden, try the original Mozart chocolate, and visit a beer brewery, among other things. Let me show you how!

Is Salzburg walkable?

Salzburg is one of the most walkable cities you can find. If you arrive by train, it takes you about 10 minutes to reach Mirabell garden, the ideal place to start sightseeing and 25 minutes to reach the fortress of Salzburg, the other end of the old town.

There is no need to take buses in the city center. In fact, most of the essential sights cannot be reached by public transport because the old town is a pedestrian area. If you nevertheless want to read about it, here is an article on public transport in Salzburg .

Is the Salzburg Card worth buying?

The Salzburg Card is an all-inclusive sightseeing card, including all the attractions in the city as well as public transport. It’s worth buying if you enter at least two paid sights. Let’s say you want to visit the fortress and Mozart’s birthplace. You would pay the same amount of money for single entrance fees as the Card costs, but the card includes many more attractions in Salzburg.

Therefore it’s straightforward to make the Salzburg card worth it, and I recommend it to almost everyone. Here is an article for you, if you want to know more about the Salzburg Card .

That being said, there are plenty of free things to see in Salzburg. Especially when you only have one day in Salzburg, you might just visit the main sights to see them from the outside without spending time in the museums and time on going more in-depth.

How to Spend One Day in Salzburg?

So what to do in Salzburg in one day? In short, my recommendation would be to visit the must-see sights in the morning and for the afternoon pick and choose activities according to your interests. To see the must-see sights takes you between two to four hours. Therefore, you could even cover them if you only have a few hours in Salzburg.

Where to have Breakfast in Salzburg?

But first things first. If you have not had breakfast yet, the best and most inexpensive places in Salzburg are bakeries. At some bakeries, you also can sit down and order a cup of coffee together with pastry. The pastry at bakeries is different from the pastry you get at a pastry shop. My favorite breakfast pastry is Zaunerkipferl, and here you find out about my favorite place to have it. Read this article to become an expert on Breakfast in Salzburg .

How to spend the morning in Salzburg?

Ideally, you sign up for the Free Walking Tour to get a simple overview and more recommendations, and to meet me. Still, you wouldn’t have a problem finding the sights on your own either.

Here they are:

• The perfect place to start is Mirabell Garden . It’s on the way from the station before crossing the river. It’s the main sight on the right side of the river. Mirabell is also a great place to ease into the city. While it might also be full of tourists, the garden is spacious and relaxed. Make sure to enter the castle and take the stairs to the first floor to glance at the Marble Hall.
• When you leave Mirabell towards Makartplatz Square, you face Mozart’s residence . Only enter in case you have the Salzburg Card. Otherwise turn right to cross Makartsteg, the love lock bridge of Salzburg.
• The left side of the river is where most of the important sights are. After crossing the bridge, you find one of the passages that are between all the houses. They take you to Getreidegasse . Not only the most famous street in Salzburg, but the yellow building with the Austrian flag is Mozart’s birthplace .
• Go through another passage, and you are in front of the University Church , one of the four most important churches in Salzburg, and one of the must-see sights.
• Behind the University Church, you enter the festival district and find the concert hall . That’s where the Salzburg Festival , the most prominent classical music festival in the world, takes place for six weeks every summer.
• From the concert hall, you visit the Franciscan church and head to Saint Peter’s monastery . Each of them is 2 minutes walking apart. At Saint Peter’s you want to walk through the cemetery after visiting the church.
• If you keep left at the cemetery, you reach Saint Peter’s Bakery , the oldest bakery in Salzburg. Their sourdough bread is an excellent option for a snack. If you keep right at the cemetery, you reach the funicular to the fortress.
• If you only pay for one attraction in Salzburg, I recommend the fortress . In case you have time and want to visit two or more attractions, get the Salzburg Card! If you pay for the fortress, you can save money by walking up. Here you find the history of the Hohensalzburg fortress , if you want to be prepared for you visit.
• After the fortress or instead of the fortress, you could head over to Nonnberg Abbey . Nonnberg is the oldest abbey in the world and the monastery from the Sound of Music. You can not visit the monastery but the church.
• From Nonnberg or the fortress, you visit the cathedral and thereby the heart of the city. The surrounding squares are the main squares of the old town. Especially Residence Square with the two archiepiscopal residences . Nowadays they house the best history museums in town.
• Next to Residence Square, there is Mozart Square and the Mozart statue . Don’t miss the chance to take a picture with Salzburg’s most famous son.
• Now you can either go down to the river and cross the Mozartsteg to walk on the other side along the Steingasse and up to the Saint Sebastian’s cemetery . These are some of my favorite sights, but not everyone would consider them a must.
• Alternatively, you head over to Alter Markt square (old market but there is no actual market) where you do not only get close to the food I would like to recommend for lunch but also find the original Mozart chocolate and the oldest cafe in Salzburg.

That’s how easy it is to get an overview of Salzburg. I sometimes guided Korean groups that arrive by bus and only spend an hour in the old town to walk from the cathedral to Mirabell to see the most famous sights. While that’s not recommended, it’s possible.

Notice that your walk will take longer if you visit museums. 

You could enter the fortress on the way, but if you are planning to get a Salzburg Card and enter museums, I would either recommend planning more time for your walk and visiting every museum on the way or coming back to activate and use it later. To activate the Salzburg Card later is the best option if you have time the next day. More on that below.

Street Food for Lunch

For lunch, you either go for one of my favorite restaurants listed in this article or go for street food.

I would go for street food if I were you. Here you can read about Austrian street food to understand its significance.

My recommendation is Bosna because you only find the original Bosna in Salzburg, but sausages at Raymond’s are an excellent choice as well. That’s not going to be the most comfortable lunch because you will be standing, but it’s delicious and time-efficient.

Coffee and Cake

After lunch, it’s either time for comfort at the coffee shop or to find yourself some takeaway dessert. Your visit to Salzburg wouldn’t be complete without a visit to one of the cafes or pastry shops. I have three choices for you.

Coffee and Cake at Konditorei Schatz

If you only spend one day in Salzburg, this would be my recommendation for desserts and coffee. Konditorei Schatz produces the best pastries in Salzburg while it remains an insider tip. But it’s not only about sweets. It also offers the authentic Austrian coffee house atmosphere, plus they produce their own excellent Mozart chocolate. Coffee, Cake, Mozart chocolate, and coffee house atmosphere. What else do we need?

Here is an article, if you want to know more about Austrian pastries and one if you would like to know the truth about the Mozart chocolate.

Traditional Austrian Coffee at Cafe Bazar

Cafe Bazar is the place you want to visit to experience an authentic Austrian coffee house in Salzburg. It’s the only one of its kind. Cafe Bazar opened more than 100 years ago. Throughout the 20th century, it was the place where intellectuals and artists gathered. Today it receives people from all walks of life. From old noble gentlemen to b-celebrities, tourists, and hipsters. The ideal place to get to know Salzburg.

Here is an article, if you want to read about Traditional Austrian Coffee Houses in Salzburg .

Take-away Mozart Chocolate

To try the original Mozart chocolate, head to Cafe Konditorei Fürst. They invented the Mozart chocolate and are the only ones allowed to call it the Original Salzburg Mozart chocolate. For more on that, read this article about the truth about the Mozart chocolate .

If you go to one of the two shops, you can only take away the chocolate. If you visit the cafe at the Alter Markt square instead, you can also sit down for coffee and cake.

How to Spend the Afternoon in Salzburg?

After getting an overview in the morning I recommend choosing one or two of the following attractions and activities in Salzburg, depending on your interests.

Should you still get a Salzburg Card?

The Salzburg Card is valid for 24, 48, or 72 hours. In case you followed the morning recommendation, feel like visiting two or more paid attractions, and still have time the day after, the Salzburg card is still worth it. You can use the card for 24 hours from activation.

If you don’t have time the next day but want to go for the museums in your one day in Salzburg, get the card in the morning! Take more time when discovering the must-see sights and use the card whenever you can by entering every museum along the way.

One of the best things you can do with a Salzburg Card is to take the cable car to Untersberg Mountain. You reach the Untersberg Cable Car valley station by bus number 25 . The same bus takes you to Hellbrunn castle and the trick fountains, which is also included in the card. That’s what I would do after you are done with the museums. That’s how you make the most of your day in Salzburg and of your Salzburg Card.

You could also do it the other way around and head to the cable car in the morning and visit the museums after lunch.

The Sound of Music Tour

Even if the Sound of Music Tour is among the least Austrian things to do in Salzburg, it’s by far the most popular tour. For some travelers, the Sound of Music is the reason to visit Salzburg. If you are one of them, you should consider the tour. In the afternoon, it starts at 2 pm, so there is enough time to explore in the morning before you hop on the afternoon tour.

These tours are never sold out. You can just show up at Mirabell Square to get your ticket. If you would like to prebook, you can use this affiliate link to support me without any extra cost for you.

The Sound of Music Tour doesn’t cover the old town because the old town is a pedestrian area. Therefore, it’s not repetitive and best combined with your self-guided walk or with my Free Walking Tour of Salzburg.

The Sound of Music Tour takes you to the palaces of Leopoldskron and Hellbrunn before heading to the lake district to look at St Wolfgang and at the wedding church located in Mondsee. In Mondsee, you would also have an hour to explore on your own.

The Hohensalzburg Fortress

For its stunning views, the funicular ride, and the historical buildings, the fortress is my favorite sight in Salzburg. You can’t see the Alps from the city center, but once you are in the fortress and on the platform on the southern side, you have the panoramic view of the mountains. In case you didn’t go in the morning, it would be a good idea to visit the fortress in the afternoon. Notice that if you visit two museums, you should get the Salzburg Card.

If you don’t want to spend money and you have time in the evening, you could sneak in after closing time. I know that sounds bad, but it’s legit. When the fortress closes, the gate remains open for another hour or two. The building remains open, and you can visit everything except the museums. There is a small door that only opens from the inside, so once you are inside, you can stay as long as you want, even if the main gate closes.

Climb Every Mountain, or One of them

In my opinion, it’s a must to see Salzburg from above while you are here. Luckily there are other options besides paying the entrance fee to the fortress. On each side of the river in the old town of Salzburg, there is a mountain. Mönchsberg on the left side of the river and Kapuzinerberg on the right side.

Mönchsberg ranges from the fortress all around the old town on the left side of the Salzach river. That’s the mountain you climb for lots of different views. It’s the mountain you want to climb for panoramic sightseeing. And if you don’t feel like climbing the mountain, you can take the Mönchsbergaufzug, the elevator to the Museum of Modern Art.

Kapuzinerberg, on the right side of the river, is the mountain you want to climb if you are longing for nature. On Kapuzinerberg, you are further away from the main sights around the cathedral. You, therefore, have an excellent panoramic overview of them.

If you would like to climb a real mountain, hike mount Gaisberg . To reach the peak of Gaisberg you have to overcome 900 meters of altitude. You can hike there all the way from the old town in three to four hours. The technical difficulty is easy. In case you don’t feel like hiking but still want to reach the top, take bus 151 from Mirabell square!

Here is an article on hiking in the city of Salzburg . The post deals precisely with these three mountains because these are the mountains in Salzburg you reach walking from the city center.

More Things to do in Salzburg in the afternoon?

• The Stiegl brewery in Maxglan is the biggest private brewery in Austria. It’s a short bus ride or half an hour walking from the old town. You can do a tour and a beer tasting, which is also included in the Salzburg Card.
• The Open Air Museum in Großgmain is a collection of old houses. Historic houses from rural areas in Salzburg were taken down and rebuilt in the museum. It’s one of the museums included in the Salzburg Card. Because it’s outside the city and like a natural reserve rather than an ordinary museum, the visit will take you all afternoon.
• The private airplane, helicopter, and racing car collection of the Red Bull founder at Hangar 7 is a place many desire to see. It’s not a must, but the Hangar is free to visit, and it only takes a 15-minute bus ride from the old town.
• The only way to take a day trip with one day in Salzburg while also exploring the old town would be to take a bus tour. You could go for the salt mines , the Ice Caves, or the lake district . Each of the tours takes four to five hours. You will be back in the evening but with €40,- to €50,- these tours are expensive. 

If you really want to take a day trip and you can manage, stay another day! Public transport is convenient, and even the way to each of the day trip destinations is incredibly pretty. Furthermore, you are not constrained by time when you are on your own instead of with a tour.

Here are the seven best day trips from Salzburg to help you contemplate staying a second day.

How to spend the Evening in Salzburg?

If you follow my recommendations, you will be not only tired but also hungry. Here are some further suggestions on how to spend the evening in Salzburg and finish the day.

Dinner at a traditional Austrian Restaurant

For dinner in Salzburg, there are plenty of options. Restaurants in Salzburg are generally good. There are not really any tourist traps when it comes to restaurants. None of the restaurants are highly overpriced or deficient in quality. Here my list of favorite restaurants in Salzburg , if you want to make sure you get the best experience.

What’s not on this list is the Augustiner Brewery. That’s because it’s a beer place rather than a restaurant. The Augustiner, however, has a food court. The stands offer a variety of Austrian dishes and street food. Especially if you are several people you can order small portions of different dishes and everyone gets to try.

How to Attend a Concert in Salzburg

Unlike popular belief and the fact that Salzburg is famous for classical music would suggest, concerts are surprisingly hard to find. My favorite place for concerts is the Mozarteum University. Many of the student’s rehearsals are open to the public and free. These rehearsals could also be available in the afternoon.

Check the schedule to find out.

If there are no student concerts, there are daily concerts for tourists at Mirabell Palace, at the Hohensalzburg fortress, and at Saint Peter’s restaurant. The latter two are dinner concerts. They are pricey, but Saint Peter’s is the oldest restaurant in Salzburg, claiming to be the oldest restaurant in Europe and the concert at the fortress is a chance to combine sightseeing with a concert and dinner. A valid option, if your time is limited.

Here you find more general information on concerts in Salzburg .

The Best Sunset or the Best Night View of Salzburg

On Mönchsberg Mountain, there are countless viewpoints. In front of the Museum of Modern Art, Winkler Terrace is the prettiest and the most convenient place to get a night view of Salzburg. Convenient because there is an elevator inside the mountain. The lift operates until late because there is a restaurant in the museum. Pretty because you overlook all of Salzburg and the fortress.

Just as beautiful is the view from the Hettwer-Bastei on Kapuzinerberg , the other city mountain. To get there, you climb the 261 steps to the Capuchin monastery or take the road to walk up. But I would prefer the view from Kapuzinerberg to the Mönchsberg view only during the day, and for Mönchsberg, you don’t have to hike. I hope this is a worthy conclusion to a full day in Salzburg.

Visiting Salzburg in one day is perfect to see the main sights, eat Austrian street food, experience authentic coffee house culture and get a Salzburg Card to visit the Museums, hike a city mountain or head to another place that’s of personal interest to you.

If you take a bus tour, you could even go on one of the popular day trips or a Sound of Music tour before you indulge in more Austrian food and maybe even a concert in the evening.

This itinerary for Salzburg in one day is designed to make the most of your time. One day is enough for the essentials. That being said, if you can arrange it, however, you should think about staying longer.

In case you have questions or need help planning your visit, don’t hesitate to comment below, send me an Email or a message on Social Media or on WhatsApp. I would be happy to help and to hear from you.

My name is Gerhard, Founder of Free Walking Tour Salzburg. I am an intrepid traveler myself and understand the passion for adventure that independent travelers feel. I love to interact with travelers, share stories, answer questions, recommend places to eat, and offer ideas of things to see and do.

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In this article, you will find out about the must-do and must-see attractions and activities during your time in the city of Salzburg. All of these must-see places are within a few minutes walking from each other.

1. Mirabell Palace and Gardens

If you are a backpacker, chances are, you are arriving from the train station, or you get off a bus (from the airport or the international bus terminal in the south) at Mirabell square. 

Either way, you are walking distance from the historic center and set up to explore.

While the old town on the left side of the river is part of the UNESCO world heritage, Mirabell Palace is the only attraction on the right side of the river listed as a cultural heritage monument .

To understand Salzburg, you have to know that the river's right side was where the lower class people were living. In contrast, the left side of the river was archbishops' territory.

However, the palace on the right side of the river was a countryside residence, still outside of the city walls when it was built in 1606. Nowadays, the marble hall at the palace is famous for weddings, but the rest of the building is the city government. Therefore, you may attempt to get a glimpse at the marble hall. It's usually open, and it's free. Otherwise, Mirabell is about the garden. Take a look around before crossing the river!

2. Getreidegasse and Mozart's Birthplace

Besides becoming more and more famous as the Sound of Music's filming location, Salzburg is most well known for being the birthplace of Mozart . Mozart's birthplace is also located in the most famous shopping street in Salzburg.

Therefore, there is no way around the birthplace. I wouldn't necessarily go to the museum unless you get a Salzburg Card (more on that at the end of this article). The museum in the birthplace is overrated and pricey. But stroll down Getreidegasse shopping street, look at the yellow facade of the building where Mozart was born, and if you want to know more, visit the Free Walking Tour Salzburgs Blog to read about the birth of Mozart and maybe even join a Free Tour in Salzburg to get more insights on Mozart!

3. Mozartplatz Square and the Mozart Statue

Another iconic place related to Mozart is the Mozart statue at the square of the same name. You find Mozart square at the end of Getreidegasse, minutes away from the birthplace. That's where you certainly want to click that selfie . Now Salzburg was not always the city of Mozart.

The people of Salzburg forgot about the genius for a while after his death in 1791. Only for the 50th anniversary of Mozart's death did they remember and commemorate him by erecting a statue.

A statue that is notorious for being inaccurate . Mozart was left-handed, only 1,50 meters tall, and even his sister said that his god-given talent in music doesn't match his appearance.

4. Salzburg Cathedral

Salzburg was independent, owned by the catholic church, and ruled by archbishops until the 19th century. Therefore, there are more than twenty churches in the tiny area that is the old town. However, none of them even comes close to the magnificence of the Salzburg Cathedral.

The Salzburg cathedral was the first baroque church in what is Austria today. The cathedral is magnificent, not like many other baroque churches because of gold ornaments. In fact, it's relatively simple, but the size, the paintings, and the three-dimensional stucco will take your breath away.

Built by Italian architects, the cathedral is part of why Salzburg is also known as the Rome of the North . Salzburg first imported baroque art from Italy. Besides being the center of religion and art, the cathedral is also where every cultural event happens . The Christmas market, traditional festivals, the Red Bull x alps, music festival, and more happen on the squares surrounding the cathedral.

5. Hohensalzburg Fortress

The Hohensalzburg fortress, the cities landmark, towers above the roofs of the old town. While "Salz" in German means salt and salt was why the archbishops were rich, the word "Burg" in German means fortress. Therefore, the fortress is the most prominent landmark of Salzburg and part of the namesake .

When visiting, you either take the funicular, which is an attraction by itself or climb the Festungsberg mountain on foot. Inside the fortress, you find several museums, restaurants, churches, and even art galleries, but an essential part of the experience is the views. In the old town, the view is blocked by Mönchsberg, one of the city mountains. But from the fortress, you get a perspective beyond the city and thereby a picture of the alps.

Besides the culinary experiences I recommend in this article, the fortress is the only activity that requires you to pay. It's therefore not a must if you are on a budget. A substitute would be a walk along Mönchsberg mountain from where you get similar views. More on that later. And if you want to go all-in on sightseeing in Salzburg, you might want to get a Salzburg Card. More on that at the end of this article or on this article on the Salzburg Card .

6. Saint Peter's Abbey

Saint Peter's Abbey is the place where Salzburg was founded in 696. The abbey is still active today and is the oldest continuously active monastery in the German-speaking region . While you can't visit the Benedictine Abbey itself, the church and the cemetery of Saint Peter's are must-sees sights in Salzburg.

The church of Saint Peter's unites centuries of art history. At the same time, the cemetery is known as one of the oldest and most beautiful graveyards in Europe. Furthermore, like so many other places in the old town, the cemetery is known as one of the Sound of Music's filming locations. But don't let Hollywood fool you. They were not allowed to film at the cemetery and therefore rebuilt it in a Hollywood set.

7. Authentic Austrian Street Food

Austrian street food is sausages. Sausage stands are everywhere. Some of them open during the day and others only at night. Therefore, you get sausages at any time of the day. You would find those sausages anywhere in Austria. In fact, Vienna is much more famous for its sausage stand culture. There is, however, one specialty you only find in Salzburg. One dish typical to my hometown.

What I am talking about is Bosna. Bosna was invented in the 1950s by a Bulgarian at the Augustiner brewery in Salzburg (which is, by the way, the largest beer hall in Austria). Bosna is like a hotdog with two sausages . Still, it contains raw onions and curry powder, which is not typical to Austrian food. Initially, it also had a Bulgarian name, which natives had a hard time remembering.

Therefore, and because Bosna was a fusion of eastern and Austrian food , people have given the newly invented dish the name of Bosna (or Bosnia), a Balkans country even if the origins of Bosna had nothing to do with the Balkans.

The newly invented street food dish quickly gained popularity. Therefore, its inventor, after a year of serving Bosna at the brewery, opened his street food booth in Getreidegasse. That's where you should go to get one. And you might want to read these articles on the Free Walking Tour Salzburg Blog if you fancy more information on the best street food in Salzburg or more information on Bosna in particular .

8. Coffee Houses and Cakes

Austrian or Viennese Coffee Houses are far more than mere places to get your caffeine boost. The author Stefan Zweig called them democratic clubs where, for the price of a cup of coffee, you could participate in discussions, playing, and writing. For artists like him, coffee houses in the 19th century emerged as their office as well as their extended living room.

Now, long gone are the times of artists and intellectuals like Stefan Zweig. Authentic Austrian coffee houses, however, do their best to preserve the spirit of the previous centuries. That's why you might want to stop by an Austrian coffee house during your stay in Salzburg.

But while Vienna is full of historic coffee houses, there are only two options for authentic coffee houses in Salzburg. Cafe Tomaselli is the oldest cafe in Salzburg, dating back to the year 1703. Because of that, it's more of a tourist attraction. It's not where locals would go to but if the oldest coffee house in Salzburg is on your bucket list, go for it!

My favorite is Cafe Bazar . In fact, I would talk about Cafe Bazar on most of my Salzburg Free Tours because it's next to the meeting point. I am not affiliated with them, but the topic of coffee is a passion of mine. You might also want to visit the Free Tour Salzburg Blog for more facts and thoughts on Austrian coffee house culture.

What if you don't drink coffee? Hang on! You might still want to visit an Austrian cafe or at least a pastry shop (which often has similar features).

Except for the historic environment and the coffee (which is, by the way, not the best coffee you find), coffee houses are also recommended if you like sweets. Every coffee house offers a variety of pastries. For example, you might want to visit the Sacher hotel for a piece of the original Sacher cake or Konditorei Fürst for the original Mozart chocolate.

Especially the original Mozart chocolate is worth trying. While the industrially produced Mozart chocolate is available in every supermarket, the original is still hand-made by Fürst and only sold at their shops. Therefore, the original is only available in Salzburg. For more on the Mozart chocolate history, you can read this article on coffee house culture on the Free Walking Tour Salzburg Blog.

9. City Mountain Views

I tell each of my guests that Salzburg's city mountains' views are a must-see when visiting. Luckily these mountains are not hard to climb. There are ways to get to the top that doesn't require any climbing at all.

Two mountains surround the old town of Salzburg.

Mönchsberg , the mountain on the left side of the river, the more historic part of Salzburg, is flat once you overcome a hundred meters of elevation. You want to hike along Mönchsberg if you wish to be close to Salzburg's sights and are not up for a real mountain. 

As a photographer, I love Mönchsberg for morning photo walks. Suppose you climb the mountain from the north. In that case, you are facing the sun and do not only get gorgeous images but are certainly up for a serene experience as well. During the day, the elevator to the museum of modern art or the funicular mentioned above to the fortress provides a way to reach the top without climbing.

While Mönchsberg on the left side of the river doesn't feel like a real mountain, Kapuzinerberg on the right side does. There are no cheats here. You have to walk every step of the way. Kapuzinerberg is only forest, and despite a hand full of the best panoramic viewpoints in Salzburg, let's you forget that you are in a city at all.

While Kapuzinerberg feels like you are away from the city, yet you are right in the center. While Salzburg pre-2020 became infamous for overtourism, these parts of the town always remain uncrowded. The starting point for a Kapuzinerberg hike is only a minute from the starting point for the Free Walking Tour Salzburg, a most central location next to the main bridge.As with many other topics, we also have an article about the city mountains of Salzburg . Check it out when you are planning your adventure.

What to do in Salzburg, when you have more than a Day?

The list of must-see things to do in Salzburg is inexhaustible, but I assume your time is limited. If you are lucky and not confined by time, I recommend spending a day in the city and then take as many day trips as possible. In particular, there are three areas you might want to visit on day trips .

You might want to head into the lake district for lakes and mountains and cute villages. The most popular of these cute villages is Hallstatt, which became the most popular place to visit in Austria overall. But there are many more places worth visiting in the Austrian lake district . You might also want to cross the German border to visit Kingslake and/or Hitlers' Eagles Nest in Berchtesgaden . And the third place I can recommend is Werfen where the world's largest Ice Caves are located.

Bonus Tip: Salzburg Card

The only place on this list that requires an entrance fee is the Hohensalzburg fortress. What if you want to visit more museums and other paid attractions in the city. If that's the case, you have to look into the Salzburg Card. The Salzburg Card is a 24-, 48-, or 72-hour card that includes all of the entrance fees .

As soon as you visit the fortress and another museum, the entrance fees are more than the price of a Salzburg Card, but the card includes all the museums in a particular time window. Here is an article on the Free Walking Tour Salzburg on how to make the most of your Salzburg Card .

Ride the Untersberg Cable Car

Another example of a Salzburg Card's worth and a recommendation for stunning nature without spending a whole day is the Untersberg Cable car. The cable car is only thirty minutes south of the city and takes you to an elevation of nearly 2000 meters. Here is how to get to the Untersberg Cable Car .

And while the cable car and the bus to reach the cable car would cost you more than 30 euros, the Salzburg Card includes both for about the same price but also includes every museum in the city, the elevator as mentioned earlier to the museum of modern art, the fortress, a river cruise and more.

Article by: Gerhard, the founder and guide at Free Walking Tour Salzburg

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8 comments on “What Not To Miss In Salzburg”

Thanks so much for taking the time to assemble this information on Salz!!!. Looking for dining advice between 3 restaurants in Salzburg. Emmskiller, St Peters and Glass Garden. Looking for elegant, cozy, high-quality food, great service. Any advice?

thank you for your kind words and for your question. I already answered via email but will post my answer again here, in case other travelers are also interested in high-quality restaurants in Salzburg.

- Glass Garden in Hotel Schloss Mönchstein is excellent. That is real fine dining and Mönchsstein was awarded the number 1 castle hotel in the world several times in a row.

- I checked the website of Stiftskeller St.Peter. Didn't know they completely changed their appearance and their name. St.Peter is not bad, but it was a rather touristy place and not comparable to the Glass Garden, but prices would be much lower as well.

- Emmskiller must be misspelled. I am not sure what that could be. If you are looking for the ultimate fine dining experience you might also want to have a look at the Icarus in Hangar 7.

- https://www.magazin.co.at/ and https://www.esszimmer.com/ are two more famous fine dining places in Salzburg.

In case you already visited, I hope your visit and your dinner were great. In case your visit is upcoming still, I wish you a great stay!

all the best, Gerhard

What is there to do and see at the Ice Caves in Werfen? Is this trip worthy to take?

Hi Am wondering if you could recommend what to see & how to get to places by bus or train Am visiting Salzburg for 1 & half days with my mom who is an elderly I want to optimise Salzburg visit as a comfortable & pleasant one for her Hope you can help Thanks so much

I have about 2 hours to spend i Salzburg before going on a 4.5 hour tour. What's the best i can take in, in such a short period of time.

amazing post..i m olaning a day trip from munich and this post is so handy.. thanks a tomn

Hi there, I'm close from Salzburg, and love the insight you're sharing, makes me wanna revisit soon, and see it from a different perspective. What might be worth adding for the nature lovers, are canyoning tours that are happening close by - there is an amazing canyon only 30 min from salzburg, it's really worth doing on a super hot or super rainy day (as you're already in the water). I happen to know an native English guide who is running great tours, I've added the website, check it out if you're curious, it's worth it 🙂

Hey! I have a week in Salzburg coming up at and want to take in as much as possible but if possible want to minimise travel outside of the city (I’m backpacking so have as much time as I want outside of the city after the week in Salzburg). I’m interested in anything arty, and good parks you’d recommend!

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