Salzburg Residenz is home to a fantastic art gallery as well as one of Salzburg's favourite classical music venues. It was the residence of the city's archbishops and prince archbishops for many centuries – making it a hugely important centre of power for wealthy and influential men.Stroll through the decadent hall and chambers occupied by countless important royal and religious figures down through the centuries. Follow the 45-minute self-guided audio tour around the 180 rooms of the huge building this is available in eight different languages.The Residenz was commissioned in 1232 by Archbishop Konrad I to be his residence. It was updated and the present palace built under Prince Archbishop Wolf Dietrich von Raitenau during the course of the 1500s.The palace's importance as a musical venue is also given the weight it deserves on the tour. Mozart gave his the first in a lifetime of concerts at the prodigious age of just six in the Ratzimmer (Councillor's Room) in 1762. He would also go on to perform in the Rittersaal (Knight's Hall), as have many other musicians throughout the years. This fine tradition continues to this day, with the Salzburg Palace Concerts series of recitals and concerts being held here – have a look online to see who's playing while you're in town.Climb to the second floor to enjoy the delights of the Carbinierisaal, a former feasting hall and venue for theatre performances. Soak up the decorative splendour of the many different rooms, pausing especially in the Audienzsaal (Audience Hall) to appreciate the frescoes depicting Alexander the Great on its soaring ceilings.The Residenz Gallery displays a range of top-class paintings from different European masters. The most celebrated of these is Rembrandt's Mother Praying, and there is plenty of classical art from the 16th to the 19th centuries to be enjoyed also. You can visit the gallery on its own, or make it part of the Stately Rooms and Gallery audio tour ticket.Found in the heart of the Old Town, the Salzburg Residenz is directly across the Residenzplatz from Salzburg Cathedral. Regular buses come here from the train station. Many of the best attractions in Salzburg are just a short stroll away, including Mozart Square and Getreidegasse.Salzburg Residenz is open all year round, with the gallery open from Tuesday to Sunday.
Salzburg Residenz Palace Tours and Activities
Visit Salzburg Residenz Palace
Tours & day trips
See all 173 activitiesOpens in new tabSalzburg Day Trip from Vienna
Private & custom tours
See all 95 activitiesOpens in new tabFrom Salzburg: Private Half-Day Tour to Hallstatt 6 hours
Adventure & outdoor
See all 20 activitiesOpens in new tabPrivate Tour of City of Salzburg and Lake district area
Shows & concerts
See all 18 activitiesOpens in new tabSalzburg: Mozart Concert at Mirabell Palace
Classes & workshops
See all 6 activitiesOpens in new tabAustrian Apple Strudel Cooking Class including Lunch in Salzburg
Popular places to visit
Dome Archaeological Museum
Rich with history, Dome Archaeological Museum is a cultural attraction worth visiting in Salzburg. Amble around this family-friendly area's picturesque gardens or seek out the local tours.
Residenzplatz Square
Built in 1587, this square with the stunning Residenzbrunnen fountain at its centre is one of the most beautiful in Salzburg.
Salzburg Cathedral
A cathedral since the 8th century, the current structure is acknowledged as one of the most beautiful churches in Europe.
Salzburg Museum
Discover the rich historical and cultural heritage of Salzburg at this award-winning museum, located in a palace complete with a chiming bell tower.
Chapter Fountain & Horse Pond
You can learn about the history of Salzburg when you stop by Chapter Fountain & Horse Pond. Amble within picturesque gardens or visit the shops in this family-friendly area.
St. Peter's Abbey
You can find out about the history of Salzburg with a stop at St. Peter's Abbey. Discover the great live music and shops in this walkable area.