Discover romantic Salzburg with these 10 tips
Tips for your city trip to Salzburg
You can travel by night train from Amsterdam, Utrecht or Arnhem straight to the heart of Salzburg. Direct services are available for a limited time only!
1. The Baroque Altstadt
Salzburg is internationally renowned as the birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. In the historic Old Town, you can visit his birthplace and the house where the composer lived from 1773 to 1780. You will also frequently come across his name in other parts of the city. Take a stroll through the charming streets, discover picturesque squares and admire the beautiful Baroque architecture.
2. Hohensalzburg Fortress
Wherever you walk in Salzburg, the imposing Hohensalzburg Fortress looms large over the city. Dating back to the 11th century, this fortress is one of the largest and best-preserved medieval castles in Europe. You can climb to the top on foot via a path, or take the Festungsbahn cable car. Once you reach the summit, you can look out over the rooftops of the Old Town and the River Salzach.
3. Ride a bike out of town
From Salzburg, you’ll find yourself surrounded by nature in no time. Hire a bike from aVelo and enjoy a leisurely cycle out of the city along the River Salzach. After just under an hour, you’ll reach the cable car that will take you up to an altitude of 1,776 metres. At the top, you will be rewarded with spectacular views of the surrounding mountain peaks.
Round off your day by sampling Austrian classics such as schnitzel and Knödel (dumplings with a savoury or sweet fruit filling) in a charming alpine hut.
4. Schloss Hellbrun
Schloss Hellbrunn, a beautiful 17th-century Baroque palace, lies on the route between Salzburg and the Untersberg. It houses an impressive collection of artwork featuring animals and mythical figures.
Guests can discover hidden fountains and water-spouting statues. They were commissioned by Prince-Archbishop Markus Sittikus von Hohenems. Fancy cooling off on a hot day? Hellbrunn Palace is the perfect place for a refreshing day out.
5. Salzachgalerien
The River Salzach flows right through the heart of the city, offering stunning views of its historic skyline. Along its banks is Austria’s largest open-air art market, the Salzachgalerien. From Whitsun until the end of September each year, hundreds of stalls run by local and international artists and craftspeople are set up here on Saturdays and Sundays. You are sure to find a unique souvenir here, from handmade umbrellas and colourful ceramics to paintings and jewellery.
6. Museum der Moderne
For a striking contrast to the historic city centre, visit the Museum der Moderne. Situated high up on the Mönchsberg, the museum boasts stunning views over the city. You can easily reach it by lift from the city centre. Prefer a bit of exercise? Then take a lovely walk up there instead. Be sure to take a moment to enjoy the panoramic terrace, too. From there, you can look out over the old town and the surrounding mountains – the view is truly stunning.
Address: Mönchsberg 32
7. Stiftsbäckerei St. Peter
Stiftsbäckerei St. Peter is a unique establishment in Salzburg and one of the world's oldest bakeries. Bread and other delicacies have been baked here using traditional methods for over seven hundred years.
Pop in for some freshly baked sourdough bread or a sweet treat. Experience a slice of living history in the heart of Salzburg.
Address: Kapitelplatz 8
8. Schloss Mirabell
The famous Mirabell Palace lies to the north of the River Salzach. Like Hellbrunn Palace, it was used as a filming location for The Sound of Music.
Take a stroll past the colourful flowerbeds, fountains and neatly trimmed hedges of the Mirabell Gardens to find complete peace and tranquillity.
9. Beer at Augustiner Bräu
Would you like to experience Salzburg like a local? Then visit the historic Augustiner Bräu brewery and beer hall. Walk down the Mönchsberg towards the north-west and take a seat at this welcoming establishment. Traditional Märzen beer has been brewed here since the 17th century.
Grab a stone beer mug, fill it at the tap, then find a spot in the inviting beer hall or large beer garden. You can put together your own meal featuring local specialities at the various food stalls.
Address: Lindhofstraße 7
10. Dine with a view at Hotel Stein
Fancy a casual lunch or dinner? Take a seat on the rooftop terrace at the Hotel Stein and enjoy one of the most beautiful views in Salzburg. You’ll have a view of the Old Town, the River Salzach and the Hohensalzburg Fortress. Meanwhile, you can sample international and local dishes with a twist.
Our recommendation: try the truffle gnocchi with spinach and wash it down with a glass of homemade basil lemonade.
Address: Giselakai 3-5
Travel to Salzburg by train
The sights and tips listed above are ideal for a short break in Salzburg. You can easily reach Salzburg by train from the Netherlands. The journey from Amsterdam on the ICE takes 9.21 hours, with only one change of train.
You can enjoy the ever-changing scenery during the day as you travel. Would you prefer to travel at night? Then take the night train, you won’t have to change trains and can travel to Salzburg while you sleep.
The same principle applies to all trains: the sooner you book, the lower the price!
Tips Salzburg
