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Salzburg, also known as Salzburg, is the capital of the Salzburger Land in Austria. With a population of approximately 150,000 (2007), it is Austria's fourth-largest city after Vienna, Graz, and Linz. Located near the German border, Salzburg is the hometown of the great composer Mozart and a renowned site for Austrian Baroque architecture. Its small city area and numerous churches make it ideal for walking tours.
The beautiful Salzach River divides Salzburg into the New Town and the Old Town. Unique and historic steeple churches and monasteries, lush gardens, and a myriad of fountains adorn Salzburg's beauty. The city also boasts enchanting medieval residences, Mozart's birthplace, the Mozart Conservatory, Mozartplatz, and a monumental statue. The stunning Alpine scenery and vibrant architecture seamlessly blend together, earning Salzburg its reputation as one of the world's most beautiful cities and a United Nations designation as a World Heritage Site.
With a temperate continental climate, spring and autumn are the best times to travel.
Fortress Hohensalzburg
This iconic building, perched on a hill above the Old Town, boasts a rich history. Construction began in 1077 and was gradually expanded by successive archbishops. It is one of the largest medieval castles in Europe. According to 2012 statistics, the castle attracted over 996,000 visitors annually, making it one of Austria's most popular attractions. The castle regularly hosts classical chamber music concerts, featuring popular works. The open spaces along the castle's north and south walls offer excellent vantage points for photographers capturing the city's scenery.
Mirabell Palace
Mirabell Palace is a white building that was once built by Archbishop Wolf Dietrich for his lover, Salome. After Dietrich's death, it was renamed Mirabell Palace by his successor. Today, it serves as Salzburg's city hall. After he left office, the name was changed to Mirabell Palace to cover up this shameful past.
This was also one of the filming locations for the movie "The Sound of Music." The palace's most striking feature is its staircase, where 22 cheerful angels playfully slide up and down its spiral handrails, their bodies playfully exposed. The staircase leads to a marble room, now home to one of the world's most beautiful and romantic wedding halls, attracting couples from around the world to register their marriages. The hall is also used for conferences, commemorative events, and romantic concerts.
Salzburg is the birthplace of Mozart and a UNESCO World Heritage city. Its historic center preserves Baroque architecture, medieval fortresses, and cultural landmarks, reflecting centuries of European art, music, and religious history.
Located in western Austria near the German border. Accessible by train from Vienna or Munich, regional buses, taxis, and walking within the compact historic center.
Most attractions open 9:00–17:00. Best times are spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) for mild weather and smaller crowds.
Advance booking recommended for Hohensalzburg Fortress and popular tours, 1–2 weeks in advance during peak season (summer, holidays).
2–3 full days to visit main attractions, museums, and enjoy city walks and Sound of Music locations.
Guided tours are available in English, German, French, Italian, and Spanish. Audio guides offered in multiple languages at museums and Hohensalzburg Fortress.
Start at Mirabell Gardens, walk to Getreidegasse, visit Mozart’s Birthplace, Salzburg Cathedral, St. Peter’s Abbey, then Hohensalzburg Fortress via funicular or hike, finishing with sunset photos along Salzach River.
Night walking tours, classical music concerts, and seasonal Christmas markets are available; fortress is usually closed after evening.
Summer and holidays are busiest. Least crowded periods are spring and autumn weekdays.
Facilities include cafes, restaurants, restrooms at main attractions, souvenir shops, and benches along city streets and gardens.
Most city areas are accessible; Hohensalzburg Fortress has funicular for easier access. Some museums and historic sites may have limited wheelchair access.
Cards widely accepted; small cafes or market stalls may prefer cash (EUR).
Many restaurants and cafes in the Old Town, offering Austrian cuisine, pastries, and international options.
Vegetarian and vegan dishes are widely available; halal options are limited but some international restaurants may provide.
Range of accommodations from luxury hotels, boutique guesthouses, to budget hostels in Old Town and near Mirabell Gardens.
Souvenirs include Mozart chocolates, musical instruments, postcards, Austrian crafts, and Christmas ornaments (seasonal).
