25 Best things to do in Salzburg, Austria, in 2 to 6 days

Introduction

Salzburg was a convenient stop for us on the way from Strasbourg to Serbia. We didn’t know what to expect—but the city completely blew us away. We quickly realized that you could easily spend a whole week here, with plenty of things to do in Salzburg and its surrounding areas.

From wandering the UNESCO-listed old town, visiting fascinating museums, and exploring Mozart’s legacy to venturing into the nearby Alps, Salzburg is full of surprises. The Austrian city itself feels like something out of a fairytale, with baroque architecture, narrow cobbled streets, and the Salzach River cutting through its heart.

Did you know Salzburg is not only Mozart’s birthplace but also where The Sound of Music was filmed? This makes it a cultural hub with a mix of history, music, and stunning scenery.

So, let’s dive into the best things to do in Salzburg!

Getting there

We arrived in Salzburg by car as part of our road trip, which made it really convenient to explore at our own pace. But even if you’re not driving, Salzburg is super easy to reach.

Salzburg has its own international airport, Salzburg Airport W. A. Mozart (SZG), located just 4 km from the city center. From there, you can hop on a bus or taxi and be in town within 15 minutes.

If you’re already in Austria or nearby countries, trains are a great option. Salzburg’s main station is well connected to Vienna (2h30), Munich (1h30), Innsbruck (2h), and even Prague (6h). Buses also link Salzburg with many European cities, often at budget-friendly prices.

So whether you’re road tripping like us or traveling by train or plane, Salzburg is very accessible and makes a great stop on any Central European itinerary.

Moving Around

Getting around Salzburg is very easy, which makes visiting stress-free.

• On foot: The old town is compact and perfect for walking. Most of the main attractions are close together, and strolling through the cobblestone streets is part of the experience. And you can even do it with a stroller. Even though we would also recommend bringing a baby kangaroo.
• Public transportation: If you plan to go further out, like to Hellbrunn Palace or the suburbs, the bus and trolleybus network is reliable and easy to use. Tickets can be purchased at machines or via mobile apps.
• By car: We arrived by car, and while you don’t need it inside the city, it’s useful for exploring the surrounding region. For parking, we recommend CONTIPARK Tiefgarage Altstadtgarage. It’s not only practical but also a bit of an attraction in itself, as you exit through a long tunnel that leads directly into the old town.

Overall, whether you’re walking, using public transport, or driving, moving around Salzburg is straightforward and convenient.

We recommend to rent a car through Discover Cars with free cancellation. Book your rental car here.

When to Visit

Salzburg is a city you can enjoy year-round, but the experience changes a lot depending on the season.

• Spring (April–June): A lovely time to visit with mild weather, blooming gardens, and fewer crowds. Perfect if you want to explore both the city and nearby mountains without the summer rush.
• Summer (July–August): The busiest season, especially during the world-famous Salzburg Festival, which brings music and culture lovers from all over. Expect higher prices and big crowds, but also a vibrant atmosphere and plenty of events.
• Autumn (September–October): A fantastic time for sightseeing. The weather is still pleasant, the crowds thin out, and the fall colors in the surrounding Alps make day trips even more beautiful.
• Winter (November–March): Cold but magical. The Christmas markets here are some of the best in Austria, and you’re close to ski resorts if you want to mix city life with some alpine adventures.

Tip: If you want a balance of good weather and fewer tourists, late spring and early autumn are the sweet spots.

We usually travel with Airalo eSIMs, but when we need unlimited data for work, we go with Holafly.

Where to Stay

To really enjoy Salzburg without rushing, we’d recommend staying at least 3 nights. This way, you’ll have two full days to explore the city, with time left to wander at your own pace. Whether you’re looking for something budget-friendly, mid-range, or more luxurious, Salzburg has plenty of great options:

(€) Motel One Salzburg-Süd – A modern and budget-friendly choice with stylish design, comfy rooms, and easy access to public transport. Perfect if you want a simple base and plan to spend most of your time exploring.

(€€) Altstadt Hotel Hofwirt Salzburg – Located right by the old town, this hotel is ideal if you want to be close to the main attractions. Spacious rooms, a good breakfast, and a great balance of price and location.

(€€€) Hotel Bristol Salzburg – A historic 5-star hotel in the heart of Salzburg, offering elegant rooms, outstanding service, and views of the old town. A great choice if you want to treat yourself during your stay.

Here are all your accommodation options in Salzburg

What to Eat

Salzburg has a rich food culture, blending Austrian classics with local alpine flavors. Here are a few traditional dishes you should try, along with vegetarian options:

• Wiener Schnitzel – The most iconic Austrian dish, usually made with veal or pork, even though it is not something we eat today, we had it in the past and had to be on our list
• Kasnocken (cheese spätzle) – Traditional Alpine egg noodles with melted cheese and caramelized onions, served with a crisp green salad.
• Dumplings: Delicate spinach dumplings tossed in nutty brown butter, topped
• with aged parmesan and served with a fresh green salad
• Salzburger Nockerl – A fluffy, sweet soufflé-style dessert that’s a must-try in Salzburg.
• Apple Strudel – Classic Austrian pastry, perfect with coffee for an afternoon treat.
• Mozartkugeln: Ball made of a mix of marzipan, pistachio, and nougat wrapped in dark chocolate

Where to Eat in Salzburg

• Das Kaffeehaus by Hotel Melanie – A cozy spot to enjoy Austrian coffee culture with homemade cakes and pastries. Perfect for Brunch.
• Zum Zirkelwirt – A traditional restaurant serving hearty Austrian cuisine, perfect if you want the authentic Salzburg dining experience.
• Pauli Stubm – A rustic, laid-back tavern where you can try regional dishes in a very local setting. Be sure to book this one in advance.
• 220GRAD Nonntal – Known for excellent coffee and a modern twist on Austrian breakfasts and brunches.

Best things to do in Salzburg

Wander Through Salzburg’s Old Town

The Old Town (Altstadt) is the beating heart of Salzburg and the part we loved the most. Simply wandering its narrow cobblestone streets feels like stepping back in time. The pastel-colored houses, baroque churches, and hidden courtyards make every turn picture-perfect.

What stood out to us was not just the architecture, but also the warmth of the people. On our first stroll, an older couple stopped us and kindly pointed out their favorite streets and squares — a gesture that set the tone for the rest of our stay.

The Old Town is best explored on foot, so slow down, wander without a plan, and let Salzburg surprise you. And if like us you loved it, come back to it.

Here are all your accommodation options in Salzburg

Hang Out at Residenzplatz Square

Right in the heart of Salzburg, Residenzplatz is one of those spots where you just have to stop and take it all in. Surrounded by grand buildings like the Salzburg Cathedral and the old Residenz Palace.

What really blew us away here was the art. Scattered around the square are five giant sculptures by Catalan artist Jaume Plensa, known as Secret Garden. More than just statues, they feel like a tribute to everything we carry quietly: thoughts, dreams, memories, power.

Add in the huge baroque fountain in the middle, and Residenzplatz becomes almost like an open-air gallery. It’s the kind of place where you want to linger — whether for the art, the history, or just to soak in Salzburg’s vibe.

Tip: We use the DJI Action 4 to film our vlogs — compact, durable, and perfect for capturing every adventure.

Mozartplatz Square

Just a short stroll from Residenzplatz, you’ll find Mozartplatz Square, home to the big bronze statue of Salzburg’s most famous resident — Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. It’s one of those places you can’t skip, even if just for a quick photo stop.

The square itself is surrounded by beautiful buildings, cafés, and museums, and it feels a little calmer compared to the busier Residenzplatz. We liked it as a spot to pause, look around, and imagine what life might have been like here when Mozart actually lived in Salzburg.

It’s not a place where you’ll spend hours, but it ties perfectly into a walking loop through the old town. Plus, it’s a good starting point if you’re heading toward the Salzburg Museum or planning to wander deeper into the historic streets.

Tip: Now, that we travel with baby Milo, we always bring this Babybjorn baby carrier with us.

Step Inside Salzburg Cathedral

The Salzburg Cathedral is one of the city’s most striking landmarks, right in the middle of the old town. Its baroque façade is massive and really stands out against the square. Sadly, we couldn’t get inside during our visit, but even from the outside it was impressive enough to make us stop for a while.

Knowing the history makes it even more special — this is the church where Mozart was baptized, and the original cathedral dates back centuries (though it’s been rebuilt several times after fires and war damage).

If you get the chance to go in, we’ve heard the interior is breathtaking, with high frescoed ceilings and incredible light. Either way, it’s an unmissable stop as you wander through Domplatz.

Tip: You can listen to an Organ Concert at Midday in the Salzburg Cathedral. And if you want to skip the line to enter the cathedral, be sure to buy your ticket online.

Discover Hohensalzburg Fortress

You can’t really miss Hohensalzburg Fortress — it towers over Salzburg on a hill and follows you everywhere you go in the old town. We decided to head up, and it was absolutely worth it. You can either take the funicular (super quick and fun) or walk up if you’re in the mood for a little climb.

Once at the top, the views are incredible — the city on one side, the Alps on the other. Inside, the fortress feels like stepping back in time, with old rooms, exhibitions, and courtyards that still keep their medieval charm. It’s one of the largest and best-preserved castles in Europe, which is pretty crazy when you’re standing there looking down at the city.

If you have the time, definitely linger a bit — grab a drink up there, walk around, and enjoy the atmosphere. It’s easily one of the best things to do in Salzburg.

Tip: Skip the line with those Hohensalzburg Fortress online tickets, which include the funicular.

Stroll Getreidegasse Main Street

Getreidegasse is the beating heart of Salzburg’s old town and probably the street you’ll end up walking through again and again. We loved just wandering here — the narrow lanes, colorful houses, and those beautiful wrought-iron guild signs hanging above every shop. It’s one of those streets where you keep looking up instead of straight ahead.

This is also where you’ll find Mozart’s birthplace, tucked among cafés, boutiques, and souvenir shops. Yes, it’s touristy, but it still has so much charm. Even grabbing a coffee or just people-watching here feels like you’re part of the city’s rhythm.

And be sure to explore the hidden perpendicular streets, you never know what you will find.

Here are all your accommodation options in Salzburg

Visit St. Peter’s Abbey & its cemetery

St. Peter’s Abbey is one of the oldest monasteries in the German-speaking world. The complex is beautiful, with its church, courtyards, and the famous cemetery that sits right below the cliffs.

Walking through the graveyard was surprisingly peaceful — it’s said to have inspired scenes in The Sound of Music.

You don’t need to spend too much time in there; just passing through is enough. And if you want more, there are guided visits of the catacombs.

Tip: Now, that we travel with baby Milo, we always bring this Babybjorn baby carrier with us.

Step Inside the Franciscan Church

Just a short walk from the Salzburg Cathedral, the Franciscan Church feels completely different. From the outside it looks rather simple, but once you step inside, the mix of Gothic and Baroque styles really stands out. The high, dark arches create such a dramatic atmosphere, and then the bright Baroque altar in the middle almost glows in contrast.

It’s one of those churches that doesn’t get as much attention as the cathedral, but we actually loved the mood here. It felt quieter, more intimate, and definitely worth a stop while exploring the old town.

Tip: Don’t forget to bring a good camera, such as the SONY A7 — it makes all the difference for capturing those unforgettable moments.

Pause at the Marktbrunnen Fountain

Right in the heart of the old town, you’ll find the Marktbrunnen Fountain. It’s not the most famous landmark in Salzburg, but it’s a spot that we really liked. The fountain dates back to the 15th century and has long been a centrepiece of daily life here, once used by locals to fetch water during market days.

It is also the perfect spot to refill your water bottle.

Stroll Through Mirabell Garden

Mirabell Garden was one of the highlights of our time in Salzburg. It’s elegant, colorful, and full of life, with perfectly kept flowerbeds, fountains, and statues lining the paths. The garden dates back to the 17th century and is part of the Mirabell Palace, once built for Prince-Archbishop Wolf Dietrich.

If you’re a Sound of Music fan, you’ll probably recognize the Pegasus Fountain and steps where Maria and the children sang “Do-Re-Mi.” Even if you’re not into the movie, the garden is simply a beautiful place to walk around, relax on a bench, or just enjoy the views of the fortress in the background.

Here are all your accommodation options in Salzburg

Visit Mirabell Palace

Right next to the gardens stands the elegant Mirabell Palace. Built in 1606 for Prince-Archbishop Wolf Dietrich, it’s one of Salzburg’s most beautiful landmarks and today houses the city government. You can only walk through the main halls for free and access the courtyard.

Even if you just pop inside briefly, Mirabell Palace is worth a stop while you’re exploring the gardens.

Tip: to enter the Mirabell Palace, you have to attend a Mozart Concert

Stroll Through Linzer Gasse Square

On the other side of the river from the old town, you’ll find Linzer Gasse — a lively street that feels a bit less touristy but just as charming. The square here is full of cafés, bakeries, and little shops, making it the perfect place to slow down after a day of sightseeing.

Tip: We use the DJI Action 4 to film our vlogs — compact, durable, and perfect for capturing every adventure.

Walk the Kaipromenade

Kaipromenade is the riverside walkway that runs right through the center of Salzburg along the left bank of the Salzach. It stretches for over a kilometer. From here you get great views of the opposite shore and the newer part of Salzburg, all while strolling in a relaxed, park-like setting.

If you’re visiting in summer, the Kaipromenade really comes to life with the Salzachgalerien — open-air craft markets that line the entire promenade. Dozens of stalls pop up with handmade goods: jewelry, clothes, ceramics, paintings, and unique souvenirs you won’t find in regular shops. There are also food stands offering everything from Austrian classics to more exotic bites, making it easy to turn your walk into a little culinary stop too.

We usually travel with Airalo eSIMs, but when we need unlimited data for work, we go with Holafly.

Wander the Hellbrunn Palace Garden

A bit outside the city center, Hellbrunn Palace is famous for its playful trick fountains, but even if you don’t go inside, the gardens alone are worth the trip. Wide alleys, fountains, grottos, and perfectly kept greenery make it a great place to stroll, slow down, and just enjoy the outdoors.

What we liked most was how peaceful it felt compared to the busy old town. You can easily spend an hour or two wandering around, finding little hidden corners, and soaking in the atmosphere.

If you’re visiting Salzburg in spring or summer, it’s the perfect spot to escape the crowds and enjoy some fresh air.

If you’re up for stretching your legs a bit more, you can continue on one of the nearby walking paths that lead uphill. From there, you’ll get some amazing views over Salzburg, the fortress, and the Alps.

Tip: Now, that we travel with baby Milo, we always bring this Babybjorn baby carrier with us.

Explore Hellbrunn Palace

Hellbrunn Palace makes for a fun half-day trip when you’re in Salzburg. Built in the early 1600s as a summer residence for Markus Sittikus, the Prince-Archbishop of Salzburg, it was never meant to be a place to live — just a spot for entertainment and leisure. And it definitely delivers.

The highlight here is the trick fountains. They’re hidden all around the gardens and designed to surprise visitors with sudden sprays of water. It sounds silly, but it’s honestly a lot of fun and something completely different from your usual palace tour.

The palace itself is beautiful too, with bright yellow walls, ornate rooms, and a light, playful vibe that fits its history as a retreat. The gardens are great and free to walk, and you can easily combine your visit here with the nearby Salzburg Zoo if you’re traveling with family.

Hellbrunn isn’t just about history; it’s about having an experience. If you want to see a different, more playful side of Salzburg’s past, this is the place.

Tip: This is the stroller we recommend for traveling — it’s super lightweight and compact enough to fit in airplane cabins.

Walk to Kajetanerbrunnen

Tucked away near Kajetanerplatz, this baroque fountain often goes unnoticed compared to Salzburg’s bigger squares — but that’s part of its charm. Kajetanerbrunnen was built in the 17th century and features elegant sculptures and flowing water, making it a peaceful little stop while wandering the city.

We loved how quiet it felt here compared to the busy old town. It’s the kind of place where you can pause for a few minutes, sit on a bench, and just soak up the local atmosphere before heading back into the main sights.

Enter the Kollegienkirche

Right in the heart of Salzburg’s old town, the Kollegienkirche (Collegiate Church) is one of those buildings you can’t just walk past without stopping. Its bright white baroque façade stands out beautifully, and inside it’s even more striking — tall arches, clean lines, and a sense of calm that feels miles away from the busy streets outside.

Built in the late 17th century by the famous baroque architect Johann Bernhard Fischer von Erlach, it used to serve as the university church. Today it’s still used for services but also often hosts concerts, thanks to its amazing acoustics.

Tip: We use the DJI Action 4 to film our vlogs — compact, durable, and perfect for capturing every adventure.

Visit Salzburg’s Museums

If you’ve got time (and energy left after walking the old town), Salzburg’s museums are worth diving into. They give you a deeper look into the city’s history, culture, and some fun surprises along the way.

• DomQuartier Salzburg: A beautiful baroque complex where you can wander through state rooms, galleries, and even enjoy views over the cathedral.
• Salzburger Weihnachtsmuseum: Christmas lovers, this one’s for you. Dedicated to traditional Austrian Christmas decorations, it’s a cozy little museum that feels festive all year round.
• Mozart’s Birthplace: Probably the most famous of them all. The house where Mozart was born has been turned into a museum about his life and music. A must if you’re even a little curious about Salzburg’s most famous son.
• Toy Museum Salzburg: Great if you’re traveling with kids (or still a kid at heart). It’s full of old toys, games, and playful exhibits.
• Haus der Natur: Great if you’re traveling with kids (or still a kid at heart). It’s full of old toys, games, and playful exhibits.

Tip: Don’t forget to bring a good camera, such as the SONY A7 — it makes all the difference for capturing those unforgettable moments.

Hallstatt

Hallstatt was our next stop, but it can just as easily be done as a day trip from Salzburg. It’s one of the most famous towns in the region, and for good reason — the village is absolutely stunning. That being said, expect crowds and a bit of a headache when it comes to parking, especially in peak season.

Still, once you’re walking along the lakefront and weaving through the narrow streets, it’s easy to see why Hallstatt is so loved. The colorful houses, mountain backdrop, and reflections on the water make it one of the most beautiful places to visit in Austria.

Tip: If you don’t want to drive to Hallstatt, we recommend the Half-Day Tour to Hallstatt

Salzburg Open-Air Museum

If you’ve got a bit of extra time outside the city, the Salzburg Open-Air Museum is worth the detour. Spread across a huge park in Großgmain, just outside Salzburg, it’s basically a step back in time. Over 100 historic rural buildings from different regions of Austria have been carefully reconstructed here — old farmhouses, mills, barns, and workshops that show what life was like centuries ago.

You can wander through the grounds, peek inside the houses, and even catch demonstrations of traditional crafts. There’s also a small museum train that takes you around the site, which is a fun way to cover more ground. It’s a really peaceful place, surrounded by nature, and gives you a deeper sense of Austrian culture beyond the city.

Salzwelten Salzburg (Salt Mine)

Salzburg literally means “salt fortress,” so visiting a salt mine feels like diving into the city’s roots. The Salzwelten in Hallein, just outside Salzburg, is one of the oldest salt mines in the world and a super fun excursion.

The visit starts with a miner’s suit (yes, you actually wear one!) before heading underground into the tunnels. Inside, guides explain how “white gold” shaped the region’s wealth and history. The coolest part? Sliding down wooden miners’ slides between levels — it’s just as fun for adults as it is for kids. There’s also an underground lake where they play light shows, making it a pretty unique experience.

Tip: Be sure to get your ticket online to avoid wasting time.

Kehlsteinhaus (Hilter’s eagle nest)

If you’ve got a bit of extra time in Salzburg, a popular day trip is to cross into Germany to visit the Kehlsteinhaus, better known as the Eagle’s Nest. Perched high in the Bavarian Alps near Berchtesgaden, this mountaintop retreat was built as a gift for Hitler’s 50th birthday. Today, it’s a restaurant and historical site with sweeping 360° views over the Alps and across to Salzburg on a clear day.

To get there, you take a bus up a steep, winding mountain road, then pass through a brass elevator that shoots you straight up into the rock. At the top, you can wander around, grab a bite to eat, and soak in the scenery. While the building itself has a dark history, the location is undeniably stunning and the views are unforgettable.

It’s an easy half-day trip from Salzburg and one of those places that’s as much about the journey as the destination.

Tip: Discover the Bavarian Alps on a trip to the Eagle’s Nest from Salzburg with this highly rated tour.

Eisriesenwelt Ice Cave

Just an hour from Salzburg, you’ll find one of the coolest (literally!) natural wonders in Austria — the Eisriesenwelt Ice Cave. It’s the largest ice cave in the world, stretching over 40 kilometers, though only a small part is open to visitors. Inside, the frozen formations are absolutely magical — massive ice walls, frozen waterfalls, and eerie blue-lit chambers that feel straight out of a fantasy movie.

Getting there is an adventure in itself. You’ll first drive (or take a train and bus) to Werfen, then ride a steep cable car and hike a short way up to the cave entrance. Tours are guided only, and since you’ll be climbing quite a few stairs inside, be ready for a bit of a workout. Warm clothes are a must, even in summer — it stays below zero inside the cave all year round.

Here are all your accommodation options in Salzburg

Hohenwerfen Castle

Perched high above the Salzach Valley, Hohenwerfen Castle looks like something straight out of a storybook. Surrounded by mountains and forests, it’s one of the most dramatic castles you can visit near Salzburg — and the views alone make the trip worth it.

The castle dates back to the 11th century and has served as a fortress, residence, hunting lodge, and even a state prison. Today, it’s open to visitors with guided tours that take you through the old rooms, armory, and dungeons. One of the highlights is the falconry center — you can catch daily bird of prey shows where eagles and falcons soar over the valley.

Hohenwerfen is about 40 minutes from Salzburg and pairs perfectly with a visit to the Eisriesenwelt Ice Cave since both are located near the town of Werfen. If you’re looking for a mix of history, nature, and epic mountain scenery, this castle has it all.

Tip: This is the stroller we recommend for traveling — it’s super lightweight and compact enough to fit in airplane cabins.

Sound of Music Tour

Whether you’re a die-hard fan of the movie or just curious, the Sound of Music Tour is one of the most popular things to do in Salzburg. The tour takes you around the city and surrounding countryside to see the real filming locations from the 1965 classic — and yes, you’ll probably find yourself humming Do-Re-Mi at some point.

You’ll visit spots like the Mirabell Gardens (where the “Do-Re-Mi” sequence was filmed), Leopoldskron Palace (used as the Von Trapp family home), Hellbrunn Palace with the famous gazebo, and the beautiful Lake District just outside Salzburg. Along the way, guides usually share behind-the-scenes stories, fun trivia, and even play some of the songs in the bus.

Even if you’re not a musical lover, it’s a fun way to see a lot of Salzburg’s highlights in one go. Tours generally last about half a day, leaving you with plenty of time to keep exploring on your own afterward.

Tip: The Original Sound of Music Tour includes the locations used in “The Sound of Music.”

Itinerary

Day 1:

• Explore the Old Town, including: Residenzplatz, Mozartplatz
• Enter the Salzburg Cathedral
• Visit the Fortress Hohensalzburg
• Walk along the Getreidegasse
• Pop by St. Peter’s Abbey and St. Peter’s Cemetery
• Stop at the Franziskanerkirche
• Look at the fountain of Marktbrunnen and visit Kollegienkirche
• Enjoy the Mirabell garden
• Pass by the Mirabell Palace
• Walk by the Linzer Gasse Platzl
• End the day at the Kaipromenade

Day 2:

• Walk around Schloss Hellbrunn Garden
• Visit Schloss Hellbrunn
• Explore Kajetanerbrunnen
• Visit a museum

Day 3:

• Go to Hallstatt
• Explore the Eisriesenwelt Ice Cave
• Discover the Hohenwerfen Castle

Day 4:

• Discover the Kehlsteinhaus (Hitler’s Eagle’s Nest)
• Stop at Salzwelten Salzburg (Salt Mine)

Day 6

• Salzburg Open-Air Museum
• More of the old town