Things To Do
in Salzburg

Salzburg, Austria, is a picturesque city known for its baroque architecture and stunning alpine scenery. As the birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, it offers a rich cultural heritage that attracts music lovers and history enthusiasts alike. The city's historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage site, featuring beautiful squares, gardens, and the iconic Hohensalzburg Fortress that overlooks the city.

With its vibrant arts scene, delightful cuisine, and proximity to the Alps, Salzburg is a captivating destination year-round.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to Mirabell Palace and Gardens, where you can enjoy the beautiful landscaping and catch a glimpse of the fortress in the background.

afternoon
:

Head to Getreidegasse, the bustling shopping street filled with charming shops and historic buildings, and visit Mozart's Birthplace, a museum dedicated to the composer.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a traditional Austrian restaurant, followed by a classical music concert at one of the city's many venues.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Take the funicular up to Hohensalzburg Fortress for stunning views of the city and surrounding mountains, and explore the fortress's museums.

afternoon
:

Stroll through the Salzburg Cathedral and visit St. Peter's Abbey, then enjoy lunch at the nearby St. Peter Stiftskeller, one of the oldest restaurants in Europe.

evening
:

Wrap up your trip with a leisurely walk along the Salzach River and enjoy a drink at a local bar with views of the illuminated fortress.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant$20
Coffee$3
🍺Local beer$5
🚌Public transport ticket$3
🏨Hotel (3-star)$120

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural history and vibrant arts scene
  • Beautiful alpine scenery and outdoor activities
  • Delicious local cuisine and friendly locals
  • Can be crowded with tourists, especially in summer
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
  • Higher prices for accommodation and dining
  • "Danke" - Thank you
  • "Bitte" - Please
  • "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Entschuldigung" - Excuse me
  • "Wo ist...?" - Where is...?

Places to Visit in Salzburg

Visit one of these nice places.

Hohensalzburg Fortress

Capture panoramic views of Salzburg and the surrounding mountains from this historic fortress.

Mirabell Gardens

A beautifully landscaped garden with stunning floral displays and a backdrop of the fortress.

Getreidegasse

The iconic shopping street known for its colorful signs and historic buildings, perfect for candid street photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Salzburg

Salzburg boasts a rich culinary tradition that blends Austrian classics with local specialties, making it a food lover's paradise.

Salzburg Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Schnitzel

A breaded and fried meat cutlet, often served with potato salad or fries.

Must-Try!

Sachertorte

A famous chocolate cake with a layer of apricot jam, traditionally served with whipped cream.

Salzburger Nockerl

A fluffy soufflé dessert that is a local favorite, often served with fruit compote.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Schranne Market

A bustling market held on Thursdays and Saturdays, offering fresh produce, local cheeses, and traditional snacks.

Street food stalls

Try local sausages, pretzels, and pastries from various street vendors around the city.

Climate Guide

Weather

Salzburg experiences a temperate oceanic climate with four distinct seasons. Winters (December-February) are cold, with temperatures ranging from -2°C to 4°C and occasional snowfall. Summers (June-August) are warm, with average temperatures between 18°C and 27°C, ideal for outdoor activities. Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) are mild, with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 15°C, making these seasons great for sightseeing.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A firm handshake and eye contact are common when greeting someone.

Punctuality

Being on time is highly valued in Austria; always arrive promptly for meetings or reservations.

Dining etiquette

Wait for the host to start the meal, and keep hands on the table (but not elbows) during dining.

Safety Guide

Safety

Salzburg is generally a safe city with low crime rates. However, as with any tourist destination, visitors should be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas. It is advisable to keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.

Tipping in Salzburg

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping customs

Tipping is customary in Austria, typically around 10% of the bill, and rounding up is appreciated.

Payment methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but having cash is useful for smaller establishments and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings mild weather and blooming gardens, making it an excellent time for outdoor exploration.

Summer

Summer is warm and lively, with numerous festivals and outdoor events, but can be crowded with tourists.

Autumn

Autumn offers stunning foliage and a quieter atmosphere, ideal for enjoying local wine and harvest festivals.

Winter

Winter transforms Salzburg into a magical wonderland, especially with its famous Christmas markets and snow-covered landscapes.

Nightlife Guide

Salzburg at Night

Salzburg offers a vibrant nightlife scene, featuring a mix of cozy pubs, trendy bars, and cultural performances. The Altstadt (Old Town) is home to many bars where locals and tourists mingle over drinks. You'll also find live music venues showcasing everything from classical performances to contemporary bands. For a unique experience, check out the summer festivals that include open-air concerts in stunning locations.

Hiking in Salzburg

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Untersberg Trail

A challenging hike offering breathtaking views of Salzburg and the surrounding mountains, suitable for experienced hikers.

Gaisberg Trail

An easier trail that is accessible for families, providing panoramic views of the city and a great picnic spot.

Airports

How to reach Salzburg by plane.

Salzburg Airport (SZG)

Located just 4 km from the city center, Salzburg Airport offers both domestic and international flights and serves as a gateway to the region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Salzburg is highly walkable, especially in the historic center where most attractions are within a short distance. The city's layout is compact, with pedestrian-friendly streets that make exploring on foot a pleasure. Public transportation is also available for reaching areas outside the city center.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The population includes a mix of families, students, and professionals, contributing to a vibrant community.

Tourists

Salzburg attracts millions of tourists each year, particularly music lovers and history enthusiasts.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is very popular in Salzburg, with local teams playing in professional leagues.

Skiing

Given its proximity to the Alps, skiing is a favored sport during the winter months.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Salzburg can be busy during peak hours, especially in the city center. However, the compact layout makes it easy to navigate on foot or by bike. Public transportation, including buses and trams, is efficient and widely used by locals and visitors alike.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Salzburg.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's always best to ask.

Gluten-free options

While gluten-free options are becoming more common, it's advisable to check with the establishment.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Salzburg is excellent, with numerous hospitals and clinics available. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112, and most medical staff speak English. Travel insurance is recommended for visitors, covering any unexpected medical costs.

Discover Austria

Read more in our Austria 2025 Travel Guide.

Austria Travel Guide