Unmissable Attractions in Salzburg
Surrounded by dramatic mountainous landscapes and full of character and charm, Salzburg is one of Austria’s must-visit destinations. Here is a round-up of some of the must-see sites.
Mozart’s Birthplace
Amadeus Mozart was born in 1756, inside number 9 Getreidegasse. Today, the house acts as a monument to the prodigious composer, containing many treasures from his lifetime.
Hohensalzburg Fortress
The Hohensalzburg Fortress is one of the best places to view Salzburg’s magnificent rural landscape – breathtaking mountains and seas of forests surround the baroque tower which sits on top of the Festungsberg hill.
Petersfriedhof
St. Peter’s Cemetery, neighboring Nonnberg Abbey, is a beautiful – albeit somber – place. The oldest burial ground in Salzburg, some notable residents of Austria were laid to rest here, including Mozart’s sister, Maria Anna.
Mirabell Palace and Gardens
Mirabell Palace and Gardens
This historical building is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The name derives from two Italian words, meaning ‘admirable’ and ‘beautiful.’Mirabellplatz, 5020 Salzburg
Museum of Modern Art
Salzburg’s contemporary art gallery is a pioneering institution, housing the work of some of the best modern Austrian and international artists.
Christmas Markets
Undoubtedly one of the most festive places to be around wintertime, Salzburg’s Christmas markets are uniquely atmospheric. One of the most popular is in Domplatz.
Ice Caves in Werfen
Located 40km outside of Salzburg, these dramatic caves – formed of limestone and ice – can be found beneath the Hochkogel mountain in the Alps.
Leopoldskron Palace
This impressive abode has been nicknamed ‘The Sound Of Music House’, as it features prominently in the film.Leopoldskronstraße 56-58, 5020 Salzburg
Coffee Houses
Traditional coffee houses are one of Austria’s specialties and Salzburg has some wonderfully cosy ones to choose from. Café Wernbacher is a great place to take a break from sightseeing for an apple strudel.
Residenzplatz
A popular hang-out site for tourists and locals, Residenzplatz lies in the heart of Salzburg and is surrounded by some wonderful Baroque architecture.
Traditional Inns and Restaurants
Hanging out on a summer’s afternoon with a cool mug of beer is one of Austria’s favourite pastimes. Salzburg has many traditional inns serving authentic Austrian cuisine – Restaurant Stieglkeller is a good choice, as it has a veranda where you can catch great views of the city.
Salzburg Museum
The museum of Salzburg houses collections related to the city’s historical culture – with exhibitions on topics such as art and architecture.
Kapitelplatz
Kapitelplatz is a spacious piazza in Salzburg Old Town, between St. Peter’s Cemetery and Salzburg Cathedral.
Nonnberg Priory
The convent of Nonnberg is steeped in history. The interior of the church contains 12th century frescoes, and various artifacts from the Gothic era.
Salzburg Cathedral
One of the most distinctive landmarks of the skyline, the cathedral is a Baroque masterpiece and the sacred focal point of Salzburg. The original structure, built in 767, was destroyed by fire and was later rebuilt in 1598.
Green Market
This farmer’s market, taking place daily in front of the university campus, stocks local and regional foods – with some of the regional specialties of various cheeses and meats.
Untersberg Cable Car
The cable car in Untersberg ferries you up into the clouds of Salzburg’s highest mountain for dramatic views of the breathtaking mountainous landscape.
Hellbrunn Palace and Trick Fountains
Full of mystique and wonder, this 400-year-old palace is designed around the playful ‘trick’ fountains, named as such for their disguised water jets that surprise passing visitors.Fürstenweg 37, 5020 Salzburg
Getreidegasse
One of the most popular and picturesque shopping streets of Salzburg, and the location of Mozart’s birthplace.
Marionette Theatre
Salzburg’s Marionette is one of the oldest in the world, staging numerous dance, theatre and music productions throughout the year.
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