Salzburg a week

A magnificent Baroque cathedral with impressive twin spires and a grand interior, this is the spiritual heart of Salzburg. Admire its intricate facade, stunning marble interior, and the imposing dome.

• Look for Mozart's baptismal font inside.
• Check for organ concerts held regularly.

Visit the charming yellow building on Getreidegasse where Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was born in 1756. The museum displays original artifacts, portraits, and instruments from his early life.

• Book tickets online to save time.
• The museum is on the third floor of the building.

Wander through Salzburg's most famous shopping street, known for its historic buildings adorned with wrought-iron guild signs. It's a picturesque lane filled with boutiques, cafes, and souvenir shops.

• Look up at the unique guild signs.
• Find the 'Brot & Butter' cafe for a local snack.

Enjoy traditional Austrian cuisine and local Stiegl beer in a historic cellar restaurant with stunning views over the city. It offers a lively atmosphere and hearty dishes.

• Try the Salzburger Nockerl for dessert.
• Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends.

Dominating the city skyline, this medieval fortress offers panoramic views of Salzburg and the surrounding Alps. Explore its ramparts, courtyards, and museums, including the Prince's Chambers.

• Take the funicular up for ease, but consider walking down.
• The Fortress Museum provides excellent historical context.

A historic monastic brewery and beer garden offering a unique self-service dining experience. Sample their excellent lagers and choose from a variety of traditional Austrian dishes at reasonable prices.

• You buy your food and drinks at different counters.
• It's a great place to mingle with locals.

Located in the Neue Residenz, this museum showcases the history, art, and culture of Salzburg and its region. Exhibits range from Roman times to modern day, with a special focus on the city's musical heritage.

• The museum has a rooftop terrace with city views.
• It's a good place to understand Salzburg's development.

While technically a bit outside the immediate old town, this unique architectural marvel houses a collection of historic aircraft, Formula 1 cars, and art installations owned by Red Bull. It's a visually stunning space with several dining and bar options.

• Free entry to the main exhibition hall.
• Accessible by bus or a longer walk from the city center.

Explore the beautifully manicured Mirabell Gardens, famous for its Baroque statues, fountains, and the 'Sound of Music' Pegasus Fountain. The palace itself hosts concerts and administrative offices.

• Visit the Marble Hall, where Mozart once performed.
• The gardens are particularly stunning in spring and summer.

Perched on Mönchsberg mountain, this museum features a strong collection of modern and contemporary art, with rotating international and Austrian exhibitions. The building itself offers striking architecture and incredible views.

• Take the Mönchsberg lift up for easy access.
• Enjoy coffee or a meal at the museum's cafe with a view.

A grand baroque square surrounded by the New Residence (Salzburg Museum) and the Old Residence. It features a magnificent Baroque fountain at its center, and is a hub for local life and events.

• Admire the 'Salzburg Residenz' building's facade.
• Often used for markets during festive seasons.

A stylish restaurant and bar located in a historic building in the heart of the old town, offering contemporary Austrian cuisine with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients. It has a vibrant atmosphere and a good selection of wines.

• The menu changes seasonally.
• Good for a romantic dinner.

Known for its unique 'trick fountains' and elaborate water features, Hellbrunn is a Renaissance pleasure palace. Explore the stunning gardens and be prepared to get playfully wet!

• Wear shoes that can get wet or be prepared to walk barefoot.
• The tour guide operates the fountains, so stay with the group.

A traditional Austrian inn located near Hellbrunn Palace, offering hearty local dishes and a cozy atmosphere. It's a perfect spot for a classic Austrian lunch after exploring the palace.

• Try their Wiener Schnitzel.
• Offers outdoor seating in good weather.

Experience a magical performance by the world-renowned Salzburg Marionettes, often featuring Mozart's operas. It's a unique artistic tradition that brings classic stories to life.

• Book tickets well in advance as shows are popular.
• Performances are typically in German, but the spectacle is universal.

Located on top of the Museum der Moderne, this modern restaurant offers breathtaking panoramic views of the old town and fortress, alongside sophisticated cuisine. It's an ideal spot for a special dinner.

• Make a reservation for a window seat.
• Dress code is smart casual.

A picturesque UNESCO World Heritage village nestled between a lake and mountains. Famous for its charming houses, swans, and stunning natural beauty, it's often called the 'Pearl of the Salzkammergut'.

• Visit the historic market square.
• Take photos from the iconic viewpoint near the Evangelical Church.

Ascend via the Salzbergbahn funicular to this viewing platform offering spectacular panoramic views of Hallstatt, the lake, and the surrounding Dachstein Alps. It's an unforgettable vista.

• Combine with a visit to the Hallstatt Salt Mine.
• The walk from the village to the funicular is short.

Enjoy lunch with a view at this charming restaurant on Hallstatt's market square, offering local specialties and fresh fish from the lake. It's a central and scenic spot to refuel.

• Try the local trout dishes.
• Sit by the lake if possible.

Travel back to Salzburg from Hallstatt. The journey typically involves a train to Obertraun-Dachsteinhöhlen, a ferry across Hallstätter See to Hallstatt Bahnhof, and then a train to Salzburg Hbf.

• Check train and ferry schedules in advance.
• The ferry ride is a scenic highlight of the journey.

Even outside the festive season, this museum offers a charming look at the history and traditions of Christmas markets and customs in Salzburg and Austria. It's a delightful and unique experience.

• Great for understanding local holiday culture.
• Located in the heart of the old town.

Experience the vibrant local life at the weekly market (typically held Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday mornings) on Schrannenplatz. Find fresh produce, local delicacies, flowers, and artisanal products.

• Try some local cheese or cured meats.
• A great place to pick up edible souvenirs.

Explore the serene beauty of the historic cemetery and the intriguing catacombs carved into the Mönchsberg cliff. The abbey itself is one of the oldest Benedictine monasteries in the German-speaking world.

• The catacombs require a guided tour.
• The cemetery offers beautiful views and a peaceful atmosphere.

A popular local restaurant known for its authentic Austrian cuisine and friendly service. It offers a cozy atmosphere and a menu featuring traditional dishes made with high-quality ingredients.

• Famous for its 'Tafelspitz'.
• Reservations are advisable for dinner.

Visit the second house where Mozart lived in Salzburg, located on the other side of the Salzach River. This museum offers a different perspective on his life and work, including an exhibition on his compositions.

• It provides context for his later years in Salzburg.
• Offers a good contrast to his birthplace.

Take a guided tour that visits many of the iconic filming locations from 'The Sound of Music' scattered throughout Salzburg and its surroundings. This is a must for fans of the movie.

• Tours often include stops at Leopoldskron Palace (Maria's lake house exterior) and the 'Do-Re-Mi' steps.
• Wear comfortable shoes as there can be some walking.

Enjoy a traditional Viennese-style coffee and cake at Salzburg's oldest coffee house, a historic establishment on the Alter Markt. It's a perfect spot to relax and soak in the atmosphere.

• Try their famous 'Tomaselli' cake.
• Sit on the terrace for views of the square.

A classic Salzburg brewery restaurant with a long history, offering a wide range of traditional Austrian dishes and a great selection of beers in a charming courtyard setting. It's a lively and authentic place for a farewell dinner.

• The courtyard is particularly atmospheric in the evening.
• Good for trying various Austrian specialties.