21 of the Best Things to Do in Salzburg, Austria

Whether you’re a music aficionado, a museum devotee, or a hiking enthusiast, Austria’s fourth-largest city, Salzburg offers something to captivate every traveler. This quaint, elegant, and picturesque city is known for being the birthplace of composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, as well as the primary filming location for the classic film, The Sound of Music. With attractions such as the world-class Salzburg Old Town, The Golden Hall of Fortress Hohensalzburg, and iconic Mirabell Palace and Gardens, there are truly so many things to do when visiting Salzburg – so let’s get exploring.

Best Things to doin Salzburg

1. Salzburger Altstadt (Old Town Salzburg)

Salzburg’s Old Town, also known as Salzburger Altstadt, is easily one of Europe’s most impressive old towns. Located on the left bank of the Salzach River, visitors can get lost for hours marveling at Salzburg’s beautifully preserved medieval and baroque architecture, as well as its narrow winding streets, vibrant atmosphere, and pastel-colored buildings.

With highlights such as Getreidegasse, Mozart’s Birthplace, Salzburg Cathedral, and Hohensalzburg Fortress, Salzburger Altstadt is filled to the brim with architectural treasures, charming boutiques, and important religious sights.

If you’ve also come to Austria to dabble in culinary delights, here’s the place to do it – as some of the country’s best cafes, restaurants, and beer gardens are located right here. In comparison to other old towns in Austria, such as Vienna’s, I can safely say that Salzburg’s Old Town is my favorite.

2. Mirabell Palace and Gardens

Mirabell Palace and Gardens

Mirabell Palace and Gardens is a striking Baroque palace complex loved by visitors for both its beauty and historic importance. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the palace was built as early as 1606 by Prince-Archbishop Wolf Dietrich von Raitenau and later expanded in the 18^th century. The Mirabell Palace currently serves as the municipal office for the Mayor and City Council of Salzburg but was originally used mostly as a pleasure palace.

Like many of Salzburg’s attractions, Mirabell Palace was designed with a few architectural styles in mind – namely, the Late Renaissance and Early Baroque styles. With eye-catching features such as its grand arched windows and use of marble as one of the palace’s primary materials, the exterior of Mirabell Palace is one of Salzburg’s impressive buildings.

Speaking of marble – inside the…