Salzburg's picturesque architecture makes it a treat to stroll around, as do its musical celebrations and range of gastronomic treats. The city is situated on the Salzach River, and that's a good place to begin your visit too – try the rich variety of the Salzach Galleries (Salzachgalerien), a wonderful open market along the banks of the riverThe western shore is where you'll find the Old Town (Altstadt), whose ancient buildings have stood for centuries. It has been granted World Heritage Site status, and any changes to the built environment are strictly regulated. Some of the historical landmarks here include Mozart Square (Mozartplatz) and the Salzburg Cathedral (Salzburger Dom).The 16th century rulers of the city looked down from their opulent Residenz palace down onto the Residenzplatz. Their former home contains luxuriously appointed salons and a collection of fantastic paintings by a number of world-famous painters, including Rembrandt. Check out Mozart's Birthplace (Mozarts Geburtshaus) along Getreidegasse, a street from the Middle Ages which is home to the classiest fashion shops, but where you can also buy authentic souvenirs.Monchsberg mountain stands guard over the Old Town – take the cable train up to Hohensalzburg Fortress (Festung Hohensalzburg) at the top to see one of biggest and most imposing castles in Europe.Another place from which to get some of the best vantage points over Salzburg (particularly at sunset) is the Kapuzinerberg, a high hill on the east banks of the Salzach.For a day out of the city, take a trip to the ornate baroque Hellbrun Palace (Schloss Hellbrun). Its immaculate gardens contain delightful novelty Trick Fountains – a big favourite with the young, and with the young-at-heart.A visit to the home town of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart would of course not be complete without plenty of music. The best time for lovers of classical music to come is when the Salzburg Festival (Salzburger Festspiele) is on during the summer. Follow the guided tour of the many local locations from the famous family film, The Sound of Music. Mirabell Palace will be included in any tour, with its many memorials and elegant gardens.Salzburg is well known for its high-quality choice of food: enjoy a coffee, have a top-class meal, or visit a beer hall or a brewery such as Augustiner Brewery. Cafe Tomaselli offers a charming old-world experience with cakes and strudels on sale in the longest-running cafe in the city.
Salzburg Travel Guide
Where to stay in Salzburg
City Centre Salzburg
Gourmet restaurants interesting history and top sights from Mirabell Palace and Gardens to Mirabell Gardens – discover City Centre Salzburg, a destination also famous for its shopping.
Altstadt Salzburg
Historical sites, museums and live music highlight some of the noteworthy features of Altstadt Salzburg. Make a stop by Mozartplatz Square or Residenzplatz Square while you're exploring the neighbourhood.
Elisabeth-Vorstadt
Historical sites, shopping and restaurants are some highlights of Elisabeth-Vorstadt. You might stop by Mirabell Palace and Gardens or Mirabell Gardens while you're in the area.
Schallmoos
Schallmoos is well liked for many features, particularly its shopping, restaurants and historical sites. Though there may not be top sights in Schallmoos, consider stopping by Linzer Gasse or Mirabell Palace and Gardens, located nearby.
Nonntal
Nonntal is noteworthy for its restaurants, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Nonnberg Abbey and Domkirche.
Maxglan
Coffee shops, historical sites and shopping highlight some of the notable features of Maxglan. Make a stop by Stiegl's World of Brewing while you're exploring.
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Popular places to visit
Mirabell Palace and Gardens
Built as a gift and as a monument to love, this fantastic palace remains hugely popular – especially with couples getting married!
Salzburg Cathedral
A cathedral since the 8th century, the current structure is acknowledged as one of the most beautiful churches in Europe.
Fortress Hohensalzburg
Take the dizzying cable-car ride to visit this enormous mountain castle, a monument to the defensive technology of medieval Europe.
Mozart's Birthplace
Learn about the life, family and work of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart via exhibitions in the rooms of the house where he was born.
Hellbrunn Palace
Famous for its wily Trick Fountains, this Renaissance palace of the local archbishop has lots to offer.
Mirabell Gardens
Explore the great outdoors at Mirabell Gardens, a lovely green space in Salzburg. Visit the shops and top-notch restaurants in this romantic area.