Top Ten Things to do in Salzburg, Austria: Salzburg Travel Guide for First Timers

Looking for ideas on where to visit in Salzburg? Let me tell you, this city is an absolute gem. Tucked between rolling hills and the dramatic Alps, Salzburg is charming, cosy, and full of character.

And yes, it’s the birthplace of Mozart, so if you love classical music, you’re in for a treat. Plus, The Sound of Music was filmed here, so if you’re a fan, you’ll recognise so many spots around the city. Honestly, whether you’re into music, or just wandering around beautiful European cities, Salzburg has something that will make you fall in love.

In this blog, I’m going to share my top ten things to do in Salzburg, along with travel tips and highlights from my own trip, so you can make the most of your visit.

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Why Visit Salzburg?

So, why should you visit Salzburg? Honestly, it’s hard to find a city that’s quite like this one. You get the cosy charm of a historic old town and the jaw-dropping views of the Alps basically the best of both worlds. The city’s musical history mixes beautifully with its natural scenery, giving it a vibe that’s both cultural and just magical.

If you’re a Sound of Music fan, you’re going to love it. Everywhere you go, you’ll recognise spots from the movie, it’s like stepping into the film itself. And for Mozart lovers, the city is a dream. His legacy is everywhere, from his birthplace on Getreidegasse to concert halls that still play his compositions today.

Salzburg is small enough to explore on foot, which makes wandering the streets feel easy and relaxing. At the same time, it’s close to other Austrian gems, so you can use it as a base for day trips. That mix of mountain views and old town charm? Honestly, it’s kind of irresistible.

Also, if you are staying in a hotel or airbnb, they should includes a guest mobility ticket. During my stay, I received this from my hotel. The tourist tax that we pay for additional to the price of our stay contributes to the free transport we can gain access to during your visit. This is such a smart decision from the council. This allows you to use the public transport within Salzburg for free.

How to Get to Salzburg

Getting to Salzburg is super easy, especially if you’re coming from Germany. I hopped on a train from Munich, and it only took about an hour and a half. Honestly, the ride itself is so scenic, you get to watch the countryside roll by and see the Alps getting closer as you cross into Austria.

A lot of people I met were just doing day trips from Munich since it’s so close, but I’d highly recommend staying at least one night. Salzburg is so beautiful, and staying overnight lets you enjoy the city when the crowds have left. You can also easily plan day trips from Salzburg, like visiting Hallstatt, which I’d highly recommend since it’s said to be the inspiration for Disney’s Frozen.

The trains are frequent, reliable, and super comfortable, so planning your visit is a breeze. And if you’re coming from other Austrian cities like Vienna or Innsbruck, the connections are just as convenient.

Best Time to Visit Salzburg

Salzburg is beautiful year-round, but each season offers different experiences. Spring (April-May) brings mild weather and blooming gardens, perfect for outdoor exploration. Summer (June-August) offers the warmest weather and longest days, ideal for sightseeing, though it’s also the busiest season. I visited towards the end of August, and the weather was warm and sunny.

Fall (September-October) provides comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds, with the added bonus of autumn colours in the surrounding mountains. Winter (November-March) transforms Salzburg into a winter wonderland, especially magical during the Christmas market season, though some outdoor attractions may have limited hours.

Top 10 Things to Do in Salzburg, Austria

1. Visit Fortress Hohensalzburg

Take the funicular (€14.50 round trip) for a quick 2-minute ride up to this medieval fortress. While it is a bit pricey, you’re really paying for the views and the convenience, which makes it worthwhile. The fortress itself provides fascinating insights into Salzburg’s history. Alternatively, if you’re up for an uphill walk, you can follow the footpath starting next to the FestungsBahn which it takes about 30 minutes to reach the top.

2. Discover Stiftsbäckerei St Peter – Salzburg’s oldest bakery

Visit Salzburg’s oldest bakery and treat yourself to traditional bread for just €1.80. It’s a delicious way to connect with centuries of baking tradition. When I visited, there were three options a loaf of bread, traditional bread, and what looked like a cookie. I chose the traditional bread, it had a hint of sweetness and was fluffy inside. Just outside, you can see the watermill, which was once used to power the bakery’s machines.

3. Stroll Along Getreidegasse

If you enjoy shopping or exploring historic buildings filled with boutique-style shops, a stroll along Getreidegasse is a must. The street features a mix of commercial and local shops and is one of the busiest shopping areas in Salzburg’s historic Altstadt (Old Town). It has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1996 and is also famous as the birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart at No. 9, where he lived until the age of 17.

4. Explore St. Peter’s Abbey

This beautiful abbey, with its ancient cemetery, is a hidden gem in Salzburg that provides both peace and history. Wandering through its grounds, you’ll notice stunning architecture and intricate details that have stood the test of time.

The abbey isn’t just about pretty buildings, it’s one of the oldest monasteries in the German-speaking world, founded over 1,300 years ago. The cemetery, with its ornate tombstones and quiet pathways, feels like stepping back into history, and it’s easy to see why it’s often described as one of the most atmospheric spots in the city.

5. Savour Austrian Schnitzel

Try this classic dish at Meissl & Schadn, where the Michelin-recommended menu guarantees a refined and memorable dining experience, perfect for food lovers who want to savour Salzburg’s culinary traditions at their finest. If you’re looking for something more budget-friendly but just as authentic, Pauli Stubm is a cosy local spot where you can enjoy hearty and a slightly more affordable price for schnitzel. Either way, you’ll get a true taste of Salzburg’s rich food culture, from savoury classics to regional specialties.

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6. Taste Salzburger Nockerl

No trip to Salzburg is complete without trying the Salzburger Nockerl, the city’s famous dessert. I had mine at Restaurant Meissl & Schadn Salzburg, and it was every bit as delicious as I’d hoped. Imagine a light, fluffy soufflé with golden peaks dusted in powdered sugar, meant to mimic the snow-capped mountains surrounding the city, it’s as beautiful as it is delicious. The sides are airy and melt in your mouth, while the slightly richer, eggy centre gives a lovely contrast. Served with cream and a side of cranberry sauce, it felt perfectly balanced, sweet and indulgent without being too heavy. For me, it was the perfect way to taste a bit of Salzburg tradition.

7. Take a Sound of Music Tour

Perfect for fans of The Sound of Music, this tour takes you to the iconic filming locations around Salzburg, from the beautiful gardens to the scenic hillsides featured in the movie. Along the way, you can sing along to your favourite songs, reliving the magic of the film, while guides share fascinating behind-the-scenes stories about the cast, production, and how certain scenes came to life. It’s a fun, immersive experience that lets you step into the world of the beloved musical and see the city through the eyes of Maria and the von Trapp family.

8. Wander Through Mirabell Gardens

These gorgeous Baroque gardens are some of the most photogenic spots in Salzburg, perfect for a leisurely stroll or snapping a few memorable photos. If you are a Sound of Music fan, you will have extra fun here, recognising the steps, fountain, gnome garden, and garden arch from the iconic “Do-Re-Mi” scene. As you wander through the perfectly manicured paths and colourful flower beds, it’s easy to see why filmmakers chose this spot the gardens are full of charm, history, and a touch of magic.

9. Visit Mozart’s House

Located right on bustling Getreidegasse, this museum is a must-visit if you’re curious about Salzburg’s most famous resident, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. Inside, you’ll get a fascinating glimpse into his life, from his early childhood to his rise as one of history’s greatest composers. The exhibits showcase original instruments, personal letters, and period costumes, helping you understand not just his music, but the world he lived in.

10. Explore Mozartplatz and Residenzplatz

These two beautiful squares are at the heart of Salzburg’s historic centre and are perfect for soaking up the city’s Baroque charm. Mozartplatz, named after the legendary composer, features a striking statue of Mozart and is surrounded by elegant buildings that transport you back in time. Just a short walk away, Residenzplatz impresses with its grand fountain and expansive open space, making it a favourite spot for photos, leisurely strolls, or simply sitting and watching the world go by. Both squares are lively hubs where street performers, local markets, and charming cafés bring the history and culture of Salzburg to life.

Travel Tips

Salzburg is very card-friendly, so you won’t need to worry about carrying large amounts of cash. Most restaurants, shops, and attractions accept credit cards, making transactions smooth and convenient.

I highly recommend taking a day trip to Hallstatt while you’re in the area. Just about 1.5 hours from Salzburg by car (public transport will take slightly longer, up to 2.5 hours), you’ll discover one of the most picturesque villages in Europe and is the inspiration for the village in Disney’s “Frozen”.

For the tours such as Sound of Music or day trip to Hallstatt (if you don’t want to find your own way there), I recommend to book in advance since they are quite popular, especially during peak season, as they can sell out quickly.

Since I wanted the ease and convenience of having everything planned out, I decided to book a tour through GetYourGuide that combined two of Salzburg’s highlights in one day. The first half was spent exploring the charming lakeside village of Hallstatt, wandering its picturesque streets, learning about its history, and taking in the stunning alpine scenery. The second half was dedicated to the Sound of Music tour, visiting iconic filming locations around Salzburg and singing along to some of the movie’s most memorable songs. Having both experiences organised in a single tour made it stress-free, and I was able to fully enjoy each destination without worrying about transport or planning logistics.

My Experience

Salzburg’s compact historic center made it incredibly easy to explore everything on foot, and I often found myself pausing to admire the stunning Baroque architecture against the dramatic mountain backdrop. Every street felt like a postcard, with charming facades, cobblestone alleys, and hidden courtyards waiting to be discovered.

One of the most memorable highlights of my trip was my day trip to Hallstatt. Wandering through this fairy-tale village, reminiscent of Disney’s Frozen with its charming houses and iconic church along the lakeshore, set against the backdrop of towering mountains, created a truly magical scene.

The food scene in Salzburg also exceeded my expectations. At Stiftsbäckerei St. Peter, the city’s oldest bakery, I enjoyed fresh bread for just €1.80, a simple pleasure that connected me to centuries of local baking tradition. For something more indulgent, I tried the classic Austrian schnitzel at both Meissl & Schadn (Michelin-recommended and a bit pricey) and Pauli Stubm (more budget-friendly but equally delicious). And of course, no visit is complete without trying Salzburger Nockerl, the city’s signature dessert, it’s just as impressive to look at as it is to eat, with its fluffy peaks dusted in powdered sugar and served with cream and a touch of cranberry sauce.

Exploring Salzburg felt like a perfect balance of history, mountain scenery, and food, a city that’s small enough to wander but rich enough to leave you with lasting memories.

Final Thoughts

I’m not even exaggerating when I say Salzburg completely exceeded every single expectation I had! The combination of stunning architecture, those incredible mountain views, rich musical heritage, and genuinely friendly atmosphere makes for an experience that’s truly stunning.

If you’re planning a European adventure, please don’t overlook this Austrian gem! Salzburg isn’t just another destination on your itinerary, it’s an experience that will have you humming its praises (literally!) long after you’ve returned home. Trust me on this one, you’re going to absolutely love it!