Salzburg - a city of churches, palaces, and fortresses. Its picturesque old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Discover ♪ Mozart's ♪ origins.

Your ultimate travel guide to 24 hours in Salzburg. Discover how to spend one day in Salzburg; the city of Mozart and Sound of Music.

If you're planning on stopping in Salzburg for the day, here's the perfect itinerary for exploring some of the highlights.

Discover the best things to do in Salzburg in winter, from steaming cups of glühwein and sparkling lights at Salzburg Christmas markets to stunning city views and music from Mozart and Sound of Music.

Explore the best with 3 days in Salzburg with our comprehensive itinerary, featuring the iconic Sound of Music locations and Mozart's heritage.

This is a multi-part series about our Danube River cruise. River Cruise Day 6: Salzburg, Austria A late itinerary change has us heading to Salzburg, known to most Americans as the home of the Von Trapp family from The Sound Of Music. No sooner do I think about the prospect of some interesting souvenirs for SOM fans back home, does our tour guide squash that idea. Ask any Salzburgian on the street about the The Sound Of Music, she says, and they will look at you like you have two American heads. True, external scenes from the movie were filmed in Salzburg, but apparently to the oblivion of the people who live there. More commonly, Salzburg is referred to as the City of Mozart, in tribute to quite a different musical talent than Maria and her singing charges. The bus ride to Salzburg is about two hours, but traveling through the Austrian countryside is a pleasant way to pass the time. At about the halfway mark, we arrive at what may possibly be the most awesome rest stop in the entire world. It doesn't look like the Vince Lombardi service area on the NJ Turnpike, that's for sure! The backdrop for this rest area/gift shop/restaurant is the breathtakingly beautiful Mondsee (Moon Lake). I'm hoping for a photo worthy of gracing our holiday card this year, but unfortunately, it's extremely cloudy. Still, even with the thick cloud cover, the hills are alive with the sound of music, indeed. The Hohensalzburg Fortress, looming large over the city, announces our arrival to Salzburg. Our walking tour starts at the very beginning, a very good place to start! It takes us through the Old City into Residenzplatz Square. The splendid Residenzbrunnen Fountain, a baroque beauty built in the mid 1600s, is the main focal point of the square. In The Sound Of Music, this is where Maria and the children rode through singing I Have Confidence In Me. Oh, the irony! Confidence in my picture taking is currently lacking! I didn't have a chance to read up on Salzburg beforehand, due to the last-minute itinerary change. Half the time, I don't even know what I'm shooting, and I find that I have difficulty concentrating on taking in what the guide is saying. It's the old can't "walk and chew gum" syndrome, I suppose. Behind the fountain, our feet get a rest as we take in the vastness of Dom zu Salzburg's interior, a 17th century baroque cathedral. Onward we go to the courtyard of St. Peter's Abbey, located in the oldest quarter of Salzburg. The monastery was built in the mid-7th century. At this point, the tour guide releases us to explore Salzburg on our own for awhile. Our definition of "explore" means to find somewhere to have lunch. We settle on Cafe Mozartwinkel, which is tucked away in a quiet courtyard and appeals to our tired feet and rumbling stomachs. Apres-lunch research on Tripadvisor reveals less than kind reviews, but we enjoy our meals. My vegetable strudel is quite tasty; the waiter, however, is quite hasty. Souvenir shopping is the second priority for our free time. My friend and I walk over to Getreidegasse, a pretty, albeit touristy, shopping street (but, hey, we're tourists!), while our men prefer to find a bench and watch the people parade. I could be content just taking pictures of the shop signs, which are hung perpendicularly from buildings on wrought-iron brackets, giving the passageway a uniquely European feel. There is not a Sound Of Music souvenir to be had........ This is Mozart's town, baby. After a successful shopping excursion, someone suggests dessert, and I jump at the chance to sample a local treat. Cafe Konditorei Furst in Alter Markt Square is our choice. I order a sacher torte, the famed Viennese chocolate cake, while the others stick to ice cream. Oy, I will never understand the minds of non-foodies! My prior research prepares me for the fact that this cake is not rich and moist, but rather on the dry side. Ordering it mit shlag (with whipped cream) is the way to go. I enjoy trying one of the world's most renowned cakes, but between you and me, I'm stymied as to its fame. So Long, Farewell, Salzburg! Our guide plays the entire soundtrack of The Sound Of Music on the ride to the ship, which brings back clear memories from childhood of my cousin and I acting out the scenes in the movie for our families. I still know the words to every song, but out of consideration to my fellow passengers, I sing them inside the privacy of my head rather than out loud. Doe-a-deer, a female deer........ It's a tiring day, and the ship is a sight for sore eyes. We skip the cocktail hour with beer and sausages, preferring to relax in our cabin before dinner. Later in the evening, a group karaoke night in the lounge is so much fun! Tomorrow will be a leisurely morning, as we will be sailing until early afternoon through the Wachau Valley, one of the most scenic stretches along the Danube River (more on this in a separate post). I don't know it now, but our afternoon stop will go down in the books as one of my favorites of the entire trip. To be continued......... I've got some souvenirs from a picturesque town in Austria that I'd like to send to one of my readers. It's just a little something, but if you'd like to enter my giveaway, you'll need to read the next post about a charming Austrian town, as well as my post on Engelhartszell, Austria. Yes, I'm being a tease! 😉 You can enter the giveaway in my next post! RESOURCES: Cafe Furst Konditorei This is a multi-part series about our Danube River cruise. Read 10 Things To Know About River Cruising here. Read Our First Day In Prague here. Read Day 2 In Prague here. Read Day 3 In Prague here. Read A Day In Medieval Regensburg, Germany here. Read Picturesque Towns Of Austria Part 1: Engelhartszell here. Read Picturesque Towns Of Austria Part 3: Durnstein here. Read Scenery of the Wachau Valley here Read Vienna: Exploring The Old Town here. Read Bratislava: Slovakia's Charming Capital here. Read Budapest: The Pearl of the Danube River here. Linking With: Best of The Weekend Our World Tuesday Keep In Touch

Make Amadeus Mozart proud by enjoying a leisurely multi-course dinner followed by a concert at the Salzburg Fortress dinner and concert combo.

If you're planning on stopping in Salzburg for the day, here's the perfect itinerary for exploring some of the highlights.

Salzburg makes a great addition to a Bavarian itinerary with its picturesque old town, historic churches & fortress, and the magic of Mozart!

Make Amadeus Mozart proud by enjoying a leisurely multi-course dinner followed by a concert at the Salzburg Fortress dinner and concert combo.

Heading to the culture-filled city of Salzburg, Austria? With the city's beautiful architecture, magnificent cathedrals, gorgeous scenery, Mozart-focused sites, and a plethora of attractions, you'll no doubt fall in love with it just as I have. Keep reading to find out what my 5 underrated things to do in Salzburg are! Psst. This post contains

This guide will help you find all the best viewpoints in Salzburg, Austria that are within walking distance of the old town, including information on any fees or entry costs and how to find your way to the best Salzburg photo spots and panoramic views of this beautiful city.

Plan your little holiday in Salzburg and fill it with magic, music, and memories. Here are our best tips on what to do and where to stay in Salzburg.

In this street the house where Mozart was born is located. Nowadays this street contains the Mozart 'Geburtztag' museum as well as many old styled tourist shops (hence the old style signs). Modern times are present here as well in the form of a Mac Donalds.

Salzburg is the birthplace of the great composer, Mozart, and is a beautiful city where everything is about “Mozart”. From chocolates to wines to restaurants to toys, everything in Salzburg is paying tribute to the Great musician. The city has unavoidable charm. It is an Austrian city bordering Germany overlooking the Alps. New and the old city of Salzburg are divided by the Salzach River. Although I stayed only for one day, it stayed with me.

Planning a 2-day Salzburg getaway? Dive into our comprehensive itinerary covering top attractions, historic landmarks, and iconic views. Explore the charming old town and make the most of your time in this captivating Austrian city!

Get your bearings by taking the Salzburg Rick Steves Town Walk, which is a self-guided tour of a darling town with a spectacular fortress.

Planning a visit to Salzburg, Austria? Discover the ultimate one-day itinerary and day trip guide to this beautiful European town with an unbeatable Old Town. Explore top attractions, delve into Baroque architecture, and soak in the city's rich history, including its Mozart heritage.

Discover the enchanting allure of Salzburg in winter - from snow-dusted Baroque architecture to magical Christmas markets and Mozart.

Heading to the culture-filled city of Salzburg, Austria? With the city's beautiful architecture, magnificent cathedrals, gorgeous scenery, Mozart-focused sites, and a plethora of attractions, you'll no doubt fall in love with it just as I have. Keep reading to find out what my 5 underrated things to do in Salzburg are! Psst. This post contains

This guide will help you find all the best viewpoints in Salzburg, Austria that are within walking distance of the old town, including information on any fees or entry costs and how to find your way to the best Salzburg photo spots and panoramic views of this beautiful city.

Discover how to spend the best two days in Salzburg with kids. There's palaces, fortresses, marionette's and so much more!

Salzburg is one of Austria's most beautiful cities and is surrounded by mountains. What to do in Salzburg? Here are some tips!

Looking for things do in Salzburg, Austria? Here's a list of 9 unique and fun activities to do in and around Salzburg all year around.

Looking for what to do in Salzburg? Click here for 14 amazing Salzburg experiences you must do while you are there!

The Mozart dinner concert in Salzburg is a classical concert performed for tourists but good enough for serious music lovers.

Heading to the culture-filled city of Salzburg, Austria? With the city's beautiful architecture, magnificent cathedrals, gorgeous scenery, Mozart-focused sites, and a plethora of attractions, you'll no doubt fall in love with it just as I have. Keep reading to find out what my 5 underrated things to do in Salzburg are! Psst. This post contains

Looking for things do in Salzburg, Austria? Here's a list of 9 unique and fun activities to do in and around Salzburg all year around.

From the Hohensalzburg Fortress to Mozart's Birthplace, here are the best things to do in Salzburg, Austria...

Salzburg is one of Austria's most beautiful cities and is surrounded by mountains. What to do in Salzburg? Here are some tips!

Nestled in the heart of Austria, Salzburg is a charming city teeming with history, culture, and natural beauty. This ultimate guide unveils the best things to do in Salzburg, catering to every traveler's taste. From exploring the iconic Hohensalzburg Fortress and the picturesque Mirabell Palace to wandering through the historic Old Town, there's no shortage

Salzburg is a charming city, made for walking around and exploring. Many of Salzburg's treasures and things to do are free to access. Check them out here

Salzburg in Austria is famous as the setting for much of the film The Sound of Music, but there's more to this city as well.

A Symphony of History nestled against the backdrop of the Austrian Alps, is a city that dances between centuries. Its name translates to “Salt Fortress,” a nod to its medieval origins as a salt-mining hub. But Salzburg isn’t just about sodium chloride; it’s a symphony of culture, music, and architectural splendor. Altstadt, or Old Town, is the beating heart of Salzburg. As I stepped into its labyrinthine alleys, I felt like a time traveler. The air smelled of freshly baked pretzels and centuries-old secrets. As I strolled through Altstadt, I realized that time hadn’t merely passed—it had been lovingly preserved. The locals, with their dirndls and lederhosen, seemed like characters from a vintage postcard. And the architecture? It whispered stories of emperors, composers, and ordinary folks who once called these streets home. This post may contain affiliate links at no extra cost to you. Please read our full disclosure here to find out more. Altstadt’s Old Town (Altstadt Salzburg) 1. The Picturesque Old Town District The moment I stepped into Altstadt, I felt like I’d slipped through a crack in time. Cobblestone streets, worn smooth by centuries of footsteps, cradled stories of emperors, artists, and everyday dreamers. The buildings leaned toward each other, their facades adorned with frescoes and ornate balconies. It was as if the past whispered secrets to anyone willing to listen. 2. Medieval Streets and Arcaded Courtyards The narrow alleys wound like a labyrinth. Each turn revealed a new delight—a hidden courtyard with a bubbling fountain, a wrought-iron gate leading to a secluded garden, or a centuries-old shop selling handmade marzipan. The arcades, with their graceful arches, shielded pedestrians from rain and sun alike. I imagined medieval merchants haggling over spices and silks, their voices echoing off the stone walls. 3. UNESCO World Heritage Site Altstadt wears its heritage like a badge of honor. In 1996, UNESCO declared it a World Heritage Site, recognizing its outstanding universal value. As I stood beneath the spires of the Salzburg Cathedral, I understood why. The harmonious blend of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture spoke of a city that had weathered storms and celebrated triumphs. 4. Getreidegasse: Where History Meets Shopping The Getreidegasse, a bustling pedestrian street, is a microcosm of Salzburg’s allure. Here, centuries-old buildings house modern boutiques, cafes, and traditional craft shops. The wrought-iron signs above the entrances tell tales of blacksmiths, bakers, and apothecaries. As I wandered, I couldn’t resist peeking into the Mozart-themed stores—after all, this was the very street where the musical genius himself once lived. Notable Attractions in Altstadt 1. Hohensalzburg Fortress: A Sentinel of Centuries Hohensalzburg Fortress, perched high on the Festungsberg hill, is more than just a castle—it’s a guardian of time. Built in the 11th century, this formidable structure has witnessed sieges, celebrations, and countless sunrises. As I rode the funicular to its summit, the panorama unfolded like a vintage map. The city lay sprawled below, its red-tiled roofs and spires creating a patchwork quilt. Inside the fortress, I wandered through dimly lit corridors, past medieval chambers adorned with tapestries. The Golden Hall, with its gilded ceiling and intricate woodwork, felt like a secret treasure room. But it was the views that stole my breath—a 360-degree canvas of Salzburg, the Salzach River winding through lush greenery, and the distant Alps standing sentinel. Guided tours revealed tales of archbishops, court intrigues, and the occasional ghostly sighting. I imagined knights clanking armor, their footsteps echoing off stone walls. And as I stood on the parapet, the wind tugging at my scarf, I understood why this fortress endures—it’s a bridge between past and present, a silent witness to Salzburg’s symphony of time. 2. Mozart’s Birthplace: Where Genius Echoes In a yellow townhouse on Getreidegasse, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart took his first breath. The Mozart Wohnhaus, now a museum, celebrates the musical prodigy who composed symphonies before most of us learn to tie our shoelaces. As I stepped into his childhood home, the air seemed to hum with notes from “Eine kleine Nachtmusik.” The rooms held relics—a tiny violin, handwritten scores, and portraits of the maestro. I wondered if the walls whispered melodies when the moon bathed them in silver. Outside, the bustling street bore witness to Mozart’s footsteps. Cafés spilled onto the cobblestones, and the scent of freshly baked strudel mingled with the strains of street musicians playing his compositions. 3. Mirabell Palace and Gardens: A Floral Sonata Mirabell Palace, framed by sculpted hedges and marble statues, is a love letter to beauty. The gardens, meticulously landscaped, invite you to pirouette among roses and tulips. But it’s the Pegasus Fountain that steals the show—a cascade of water nymphs and winged horses, as if plucked from a myth. And yes, this is where Maria and the von Trapp children danced in “The Sound of Music.” As I twirled on the same steps, I half-expected Julie Andrews to join me. The palace itself hosts concerts, the music drifting through open windows, blending with the fragrance of blossoms. It’s a place where art and nature waltz hand in hand. 4. Getreidegasse: A Time Capsule of Commerce Getreidegasse, the bustling artery of Altstadt, is a living history book. Its narrow lanes are lined with shops—some centuries-old, others modern boutiques. The wrought-iron signs above the entrances tell tales of blacksmiths, bakers, and apothecaries. I peeked into the Fürst Confiserie, where Mozartkugeln (chocolate marzipan balls) are crafted with precision. The aroma of coffee mingled with the promise of sweet indulgence. 5. Hellbrunn Palace & Trick Fountains: Water’s Playful Dance A short ride from Altstadt lies Hellbrunn Palace, a Baroque gem surrounded by playful gardens. But it’s the Trick Fountains that steal the show. Imagine unsuspecting guests getting drenched by hidden water jets! As I explored, laughter echoed—the same laughter that has resonated here for centuries. Hellbrunn reminds us that life is a delightful game, and sometimes, getting wet is part of the joy. 6. DomQuartier Salzburg: Where Art and History Converge DomQuartier is a cultural feast. It weaves together the Residenz Palace, the Salzburg Cathedral, and the St. Peter’s Abbey. The art collection spans centuries—paintings, sculptures, and ornate rooms fit for archbishops. I stood in the Long Gallery, sunlight streaming through arched windows, and felt the weight of centuries of creativity. 7. Salzburg Cathedral: A Heavenly Masterpiece The Salzburg Cathedral, with its imposing Baroque facade, stands as an iconic religious landmark. As I stepped inside, the grandeur enveloped me—the high vaulted ceilings, the golden organ pipes, and the intricate frescoes. The crypt below holds the remains of bishops and archbishops, a silent testament to Salzburg’s spiritual legacy. 8. Salzburg Zoo: A Wild Adventure For animal enthusiasts, a visit to the Salzburg Zoo is a must. Set against the backdrop of the Hellbrunn Mountain, this zoo houses over 1,200 animals from around the world. From majestic tigers to playful penguins, each enclosure tells a story of conservation and care. Practical Recommendations Now, let’s talk practicalities. As you embark on your Salzburg adventure, consider these Amazon recommendations: Travel Guides: Arm yourself with insights into Salzburg’s hidden gems. >> Click Here To See Today’s Best Price on Amazon << Comfortable Walking Shoes: You’ll be exploring on foot, so invest in quality footwear. >> Click Here To See Today’s Best Price on Amazon << Camera Gear: Capture the city’s beauty—the baroque architecture, the river, and the Alpine backdrop. >> Click Here To See Today’s Best Price on Amazon << Souvenirs: Don’t leave without indulging in Mozart chocolates or picking up music CDs to relive the magic. So, fellow traveler, pack your comfortable walking shoes, grab your camera, and let Altstadt’s allure guide you. The city’s beauty awaits—a timeless crescendo against the backdrop of the Alps.

PLAN A 2-DAY SALZBURG ITINERARY Are you planning your 2-day Salzburg itinerary and wondering about the best things to do in 2 days in Salzburg? Then this post is for you - here I am sharing my tips for your trip. Salzburg is one of the prettiest cities in Europe. I am confident enough to

The best itinerary to spend one day in Salzburg, Austria. Tips from a local on how to have the perfect day in the Mozart city. * What to do * Where to eat

Rediscover Gay Salzburg in Austria with our Highlights of our 2nd Trip: Hangar 7, CSD Salzburg 2020, Residence Concert, Unicorn in Hellbrunn

Although best known for The Sound of Music, the city of Salzburg has much more to offer even its youngest visitors.

Heading to the culture-filled city of Salzburg, Austria? With the city's beautiful architecture, magnificent cathedrals, gorgeous scenery, Mozart-focused sites, and a plethora of attractions, you'll no doubt fall in love with it just as I have. Keep reading to find out what my 5 underrated things to do in Salzburg are! Psst. This post contains

Salzburg Getreidegasse- Geburtshaus von W A Mozart | Salzburg | Bilder im Austria-Forum

Our plan for a Salzburg walking tour quickly showed us that Salzburg is one of those short-listed cities my wife and I could see ourselves living in ...