Salzburg
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At a glance
- Country
- Austria
- Region
- Salzburg
- Population
- 155,000
- Best time to go
- May to September, December
- Main airport
- Salzburg W. A. Mozart (SZG)
- Coordinates
- 47.81°N, 13.05°E
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Overview
Salzburg is a compact baroque city of domes and spires, set on both banks of the River Salzach beneath a clifftop fortress, with the Alps rising behind. Mozart was born here, and music fills the city, especially during the summer festival.
The old town is small enough to cover in a day, but stay longer. The lakes and mountains of the Salzkammergut are close by.
Things to see
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Photo: C.Stadler/Bwag, CC BY-SA 4.0 Hohensalzburg Fortress
One of the largest medieval castles in Europe, reached by funicular, with views across the city to the mountains.
Tickets and tours -
Photo: Andreas Stiasny, CC BY-SA 3.0 at Mozart's Birthplace
The yellow house on Getreidegasse where Mozart was born, now a museum of his early life.
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Photo: Cezar Suceveanu, CC BY-SA 3.0 Mirabell Palace and Gardens
Formal gardens of flowers, fountains and statues with a classic view of the fortress.
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Photo: Bede735c, CC BY-SA 3.0 Salzburg Cathedral
A grand baroque cathedral with a vast dome, where Mozart was baptised.
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Photo: Snotty, CC BY-SA 3.0 Getreidegasse
The old town's narrow shopping street, known for its wrought-iron shop signs.
Things to do
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Photo: Nicholas Even (own work), CC BY 2.5 Hellbrunn Palace
A summer palace south of the city famous for its trick fountains, which soak unsuspecting visitors.
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Photo: Arne Müseler, CC BY-SA 3.0 de Untersberg cable car
Ride up the mountain on the edge of the city for big Alpine views and walking trails.
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Photo: C.Stadler/Bwag, CC BY-SA 4.0 Day trip to Hallstatt
A lakeside village in the Salzkammergut, beautiful but very busy, so go early.
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Photo: C.Stadler/Bwag, CC BY-SA 4.0 Augustiner Bräu beer hall
A huge monk-run brewery with a shady beer garden, where you fill your own stein.
Where to stay
Altstadt
The old town on the left bank, the classic choice for a first visit.
Hotels in AltstadtNeustadt
On the right bank near Mirabell and the station, with more hotels and better value.
Hotels in NeustadtNonntal
A quiet area below the fortress, an easy walk from the centre.
Hotels in Nonntal
Getting around
The old town is best on foot, and trolleybuses cover the rest. Bikes are great along the river.
Trolleybuses from the airport reach the centre in about 20 to 25 minutes.
When to go
Summer brings the Salzburg Festival from late July through August. Spring and early autumn are quieter, and December is magical with Christmas markets.
Plan your trip to Salzburg
Guide last checked October 2026. Opening times and prices change, so check before you go.