Things to Do in Salzburg: Your Ultimate Travel Guide

Austria’s Salzburg is a city built on a majestic and unparalleled history that is engulfed when fused with the intricacies of classical music and nature. If you are a person who appreciates classical music, an explorer of history, or even someone who simply loves nature, then this city is made for you. 

The breathtaking castles and the city’s strong cultural background ensure that every visitor to this metallic jungle is left with memories of a lifetime. Here is a list of activities to indulge in that will make your journey to Salzburg worthwhile: you won’t have to guess what to do in Austria any more, even if you are going to spend just one day in Salzburg.

Listen to Nuns’ Hymns at Dawn

So, let’s start your Salzburg itinerary. For a peaceful start to your day, include in your list of things to do in Salzburg listening to dawn hymns sung by Nuns. Set in Nonnberg Abbey, One of Austria’s founders, this abbey has provided spiritual guidance to people for centuries. The nuns chant these mellow tunes in the crack of dawn and let their surroundings absorb the sound.

Standing atop the mound, the sublime music in conjunction with the architecture, hills and landmarks of Salzburg feels as though a mediation session, almost. The Sound of Music was also shot there, so it’s a cherry on top for your trip. This is a great way to start the day, giving a greater context to the artworks and history of Salzburg that one is about to witness. 

The interior of the abbey also has a lot of decor but considering the surrounding beauty of the city as well, this is indeed a remarkable place to think and enjoy some silence.

Take in the Cityscape from Above

What to do in Salzburg? The scouting view that the city of Salzburg offers is indeed one of a kind, and the best view one can get is from the HohenSalzburg Fortress, which is one of the superstructures in the city. This exceptionally domineering fort is among the largest medieval castles in Europe and offers an unimaginable bird’s eye view of everything, including the city, the River Salzach and the Alps.

The fortress can be reached by funicular, or for those who love sightseeing, you can hike through the beautiful hillside leading to the base of the castle. When you reach the top, there are numerous courses to the well intact rooms, exhibits in its museum, and the beautiful views of the surrounding region from the border walls. With a mix of the medieval period and inspiring scenery, the HohenSalzburg Fortress is one of the best spots to visit in Salzburg. 

Perfect for resting and capturing the city that boasts of terracotta structures and beautiful churches all neatly pulled together with the magnificent Alps in the background. 

Enjoy a Drink at Augustiner Bräustübl

Drinks at the Augustiner Braustubl is another option in our lost of Salzburg things to do. The atmosphere is infectious and always exciting, and then when it comes slowly, it’s hard to tell who brewed it.

It is the atmosphere of the beer hall that is the main thing a visitor will want to experience in Salzburg in case they are over sightseeing. You can choose from a variety of local beer while seated at long wooden tables, and mingle with other tourists and local people. In addition, there is a good choice of traditional Austrian cuisine, such as sausages, pretzels and schnitzels, which go very well with any kind of beer.

Of all the places in Salzburg, this is probably the most fascinating place to be – the atmosphere of the beer hall, the history surrounding it and the beer itself define the culinary side of the city wonderfully. During the summer the beer garden becomes chaotic as tourists and Australians mingle and drink into the warm summer weeks.

Sing Along to The Sound of Music

For many who have been and have not been, the greatest attraction of Salzburg is The Sound of Music; the sound of music encompasses the story of the Von Trapp Family: this is one of the most famous points in our list of what to do in Salzburg. 

The movie was shot around the city of Salzburg, and many famous movie locations were used as a backdrop to the film. Whether you are intrigued with the movie or simply love visiting places featured in movies, this activity in Salzburg is not to be missed.

It is possible to book a Sound of Music Tour during day trips from Salzburg, which will take you to some of the most important filming locations in detail. Here is what the tour includes:

  • Mirabell Gardens: The characteristic municipality where the von Trapp children echoed the song “Do Re Mi.”
  • Leopoldskron Palace: The stowage altercation of the lake where the von Trapp children so often played.
  • Nonnberg Abbey: The nunnery building where Maria was a postulant.
  • Felsenreitschule: The place where the Von Trapp children sang.

These accompanied tours not only recreate the magic of the movie, but it also allows you to visit the beautiful locations that are a part of the city of Salzburg. Whether you’re pulling on your favorite songs or just enjoying the views of the city, this is a wonderful and engaging activity which everyone is sure to delight in.

Conquer Every Mountain

Salzburg’s position in the middle of the beautiful Alps implies that it does not take much to find yourself outdoors: Salzburg mountains will get your heart. If you enjoy trekking, skiing, or just roaming around the countryside, Salzburg will not leave you short of chances for excitement: there is a pool of things to do in Salzburg Austria.

The mountain that stands out most when one speaks of Salzburg is the Untersberg. It can be said without a shadow of a doubt that it is one engaging mountain that boasts splendid vistas of the city of Salzburg along with the entire region. 

If you wish to quench your thirst for adventure, then a hike to the peak will be liberating, with a panoramic view of Salzburg, adjacent lakes, and the distance of the Alps core. The sweeping vistas during the cable lift journey to the top are also unforgettable, and there are mountain cafes that permit you warmth in your hands as you drink in the scenery for good measure.

For those touring the region in winter, skiing and snowboarding worldwide, Kaprun and its multifunctional facility, Kitzsteinhorn, has it all. Whether you can maneuver the poles like an Olympic athlete or are just starting, you won’t be put off by any gradients. During summer, the mountain range is equally tantalizing with hiking paths that give way to still mountain lakes and coastal meadows and another transformation of the now flourishing Austrian cuisine with mountain chances.

Immerse Yourself in Art at Mönchsberg

Even though you may not be an art lover, Mönchsberg is still one of the top things to see in Salzburg. Perched up on the hilltop, the Museum der Moderne has a lot to offer in terms of modern artworks. Mönchsberg has it all, including paintings, sculptures, and other interactive art pieces created by both domestic and foreign artists. In addition, the museum’s location is perfect, with beautiful views over Salzburg, so visiting this venue will be both culturally and visually rewarding. 

Here are some reasons why Mönchsberg should be on your list of the best things to do in Salzburg: 

  1. An assortment of art: Examine pieces from renowned artists along with fresh and modern works from new artists. 
  2. Breathtaking views: Appreciate the views of Salzburg from above while viewing the modern pieces of art. 
  3. Bizarre architecture: The museum itself is a masterpiece, constructed using modern ideas but remains in sync with its historical surroundings. 
  4. Interesting exhibits: There is always a new discovery, from temporary exhibitions to permanent exhibitions. 

Mönchsberg is renowned as a modern art scene in Austria, which is why it remains one of the top attractions in the city of Salzburg.

Experience the Mozart Vibes at Schloss Mirabell

Mozart’s essence can best be embodied at the castle Mirabell, whose glossy baroque designs, along with its history, speak for themselves in true harmony. 

The Marble Hall has been the stage for many performances for years, most notably Mozart himself. It has become more than just a location for music lovers around the world. Don’t forget to visit the Mirabell Gardens, which are historically meaningful and visually pleasing, while you’re exploring the building to give it that extra good touch.

Be Awed by the Puppetry at Salzburger Marionettentheater

Suppose you are looking for something that is completely one of a kind, then the Salzburger Marionettentheater is one of the best things to do in Salzburg. It has earned its place amongst the finest puppet theatres within international circles whilst being a renowned marionette opera in Salzburg. 

Magic Flute and classics – the puppet theatre here is scary, but the performance is still weaved. This wonderful theatre is one of the best options of what to see in Salzburg.

Cycle Along the Salzach River

If you are someone who loves the outdoors, then riding a bicycle on the shores of the Salzach River is a phenomenal addition to Vienna’s beauty. With roads that give direct access to the riverside, biking gives you handy access to some great views of Salzburg city. 

You’ll go through Old Town and historical sites as well as many open and lively places with the majestic mountains Salzburg Austria in the background. If you are a recreational cyclist or a more avid cyclist, this is a viable means of viewing the city at a much more unhurried pace.

Wander Down Steingasse

Steingasse is breathtakingly pretty and is perfect for a casual stroll. This narrow alley is cobbled and decorated with numerous cafes and shops, making it one of the oldest streets in Salzburg. On the street, one will be able to view Salzburg church buildings, which add to the historic area’s charm. You will be able to gain a feel of the ancient world of Salzburg while being on this stunning street. It is also a great place to get unique souvenirs or grab a cup of coffee with exquisite views.

Savor Traditional Austrian Fare at Bärenwirt

If you want to get the true culinary experience of Salzburg, Bärenwirt is a great place. This establishment serves traditional Austrian food, making it a local favorite. The menu includes crispy wiener schnitzel, hearty stews, and pastries, to name a few. 

The dishes are mouthwatering, just as the hospitality is heartwarming, making this place even more cozy. A visit to Bärenwirt guarantees you will feel like a true Austrian, while the authentic food combined with the hospitality will soothe your senses. So head towards Bärenwirt to unwind after a long day of sightseeing or for a new adventure in the city.

Final Thoughts

Hopefully, our list of top things to do in Salzburg was interesting and helpful. Salzburg combines history, art and diverse scenery. From the Salzburg castle, the world-famous Mirabell Gardens, cycling along the beautiful Salzach River to watching a puppet show in the Salzburger Marionettentheater, there are plenty of interesting things to do in the city. The vibrant musical culture of Salzburg, the picturesque nature and impressive landmarks are definitely good reasons to spend a few days there. 

From the mountains surrounding the city of Salzburg to the local Austrian food, there is literally something for everybody. If you are going there, do not forget to plan a tourism schedule that involves all the best things to see and do in Salzburg because this place always makes a strong impression on visitors. One can spend a day in Salzburg and still be kept very busy, or go for a longer stay where this wonderful city will offer many stimulating adventures and great things to do.

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