Almost everyone knows the Baroque city of Salzburg - with its towering fortress, rich musical heritage, and its association with The Sound of Music. However, travelers should look beyond the city’s walls to discover the region's raw and untamed beauty. Set out on a scenic drive along the Grossglockner High Alpine Road, one of Austria's most breathtaking panoramic routes, or explore a world of vast ice sculptures and hidden caves at the Eisriesenwelt in Werfen.
Alternatively, enjoy a relaxing vacation in the idyllic Salzkammergut, where crystal-clear lakes and stunning landscapes await you.
Especially the alpine villages in the lower Salzburg region offer a wealth of adventures for outdoor enthusiast in both summer and winter. From Bad Gastein, with its Belle Époque flair to Saalfelden's Jazz Festival and Kaprun's famous sports hub, these villages are a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re hiking to Austria's tallest waterfall or tackling exhilarating bike trails, Salzburg promises countless adventures.
Packed with over 20,000 stunning highlights and secret hidden gems, this map is your key to unforgettable adventures. Whether you plan a day trip, a weekend getaway, or the road trip of a lifetime: Save your favorites and plan your next dream vacation with ease!
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Top Highlights of Salzburg
One of Europe's largest castles
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Hohensalzburg Fortress
Salzburg, Austria
The Hohensalzburg Fortress towers majestically over Salzburg's Old Town and, with over 7,000 m² of built-up area, ranks among the largest fully preserved castle complexes in Europe. Since its construction began in 1077, it has been continuously expanded and today impresses with its late Gothic architecture as well as the magnificent princely chambers, which bring to life the world of the archbishops around 1500.
Highest waterfall in Austria
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Krimml Waterfalls
Krimml, Salzburg, Austria
The Krimml Waterfalls, Austria’s highest waterfalls are a breathtaking natural spectacle in the heart of the Hohe Tauern National Park. With an impressive drop of 380 meters across three tiers, they attract thousands of visitors each year who come to experience the roaring water and the therapeutic effect of the fine mist.
Film location of The Sound of Music
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Mirabell Palace
Salzburg, Austria
The baroque Mirabell Palace is one of Salzburg's most famous landmarks. Originally built in 1606 by Prince-Archbishop Wolf Dietrich von Raitenau for his mistress Salome Alt, it was later renamed "Mirabell" by Markus Sittikus, meaning "wonderfully beautiful." Particularly impressive are the magnificent Marble Hall, considered one of the world's most beautiful wedding halls today, and the intricately designed Angel Staircase with its delicate marble statues.
Stroll Through Austria's City of Music
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Old Town Salzburg
Salzburg, Austria
When you visit Salzburg, you simply must stroll through the city's Old Town. As the birthplace of Mozart and home to the renowned Salzburg Festival, this former princely city rightly belongs on the UNESCO World Heritage list. Start your walking tour from the Mirabell Gardens and cross the Salzach River via the Makartsteg bridge. Within the medieval city walls you’ll find a maze of narrow, crooked alleys lined with cute shops and luxurious jewelry stores. Follow Getreidegasse, the most popular shopping street,before arriving at the Cathedral Square. Here you can visit the magnificent Salzburg Cathedral. Most of the impressive architecture you’ll see is from the Baroque era, shaped by Italian masters such as Vincenzo Scamozzi and Santino Solari.
Baroque meets playful water art
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Hellbrunn Palace
Salzburg, Austria
Located in the southern part of Salzburg, the Hellbrunn Palace is a Mannerist pleasure palace and a magnet for visitors from around the world. Built in the early 17th century by Prince-Archbishop Markus Sittikus von Hohenems, the estate delights both young and old with its playful water features, where hidden fountains provide wet surprises. Highlights include the mechanical theater, featuring around 200 water-powered figures, and the Stone Theater, the oldest open-air theater in Europe.
Largest ice cave in the world
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Eisriesenwelt
Werfen, Salzburg, Austria
The Eisriesenwelt near Werfen is the largest ice cave in the world and a spectacular natural wonder that attracts thousands of visitors from all over the globe each year. The first 1,000 meters of the cave are open to tourists, showcasing gigantic ice formations, including the 25-meter-high Great Ice Wall. Located high in the Tennengebirge mountains at 1,656 meters above sea level, this adventure also offers breathtaking views over Salzburg’s countryside.
Where Falcons Fly
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Hohenwerfen Castle
Werfen, Salzburg, Austria
The Hohenwerfen Fortress rises majestically on a 155-meter-high rocky cone above the Salzach Valley and is one of Austria's most impressive medieval castles. Built in the 11th century, it once served as a military stronghold and hunting lodge for the Prince-Archbishops of Salzburg. Located in Werfen, about 40 km south of Salzburg, it is a particularly popular destination for families. The castle attracts visitors from around the globe with its exciting guided tours, daily bird of prey demonstrations, and the falconry museum featuring a bird of prey educational trail.
Pure adventure on 36 hairpin bends, 1,500 m of elevation
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Grossglockner High Alpine Road
Rauris, Salzburg, Austria
The Grossglockner High Alpine Road is one of Austria’s most famous and breathtaking panoramic routes. With its 36 hairpin bends and an altitude difference of over 1,500 meters, it winds through 47 km of stunning landscapes, from lush forests to rugged glaciers. Highlights like the Kaiser-Franz-Josefs-Höhe and Edelweißspitze offer unforgettable views of the mighty Grossglockner and the Pasterze Glacier.
Mecca for aviation enthusiasts and gourmets
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Red Bull Hangar-7
Salzburg, Austria
At the edge of Salzburg Airport stands the futuristic Hangar-7, an elliptical gem made of steel and specialty glass. The building houses not only a collection of historic airplanes, helicopters, and Formula 1 race cars belonging to the late entrepreneur Dietrich Mateschitz, who passed away in 2022, but also rotating exhibitions of contemporary art. The highlight is undoubtedly the collection of the Flying Bulls, which brings history to life with rarities like the Douglas DC-6B.
1. early Baroque church north of the Alps
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Salzburg Cathedral
Salzburg, Austria
The Salzburg Cathedral is the first early Baroque church north of the Alps and one of Salzburg's most important landmarks. Built between 1614 and 1628 by architect Santino Solari, the cathedral impresses with its imposing façade made of Untersberg marble, two distinctive towers, and a massive dome. Originally consecrated in 774, it was repeatedly rebuilt after being destroyed by fires, with the current structure dating back to the 17th century. Highlights include:
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Travel Information
Best Time to Visit
Spring (April to May)
As temperatures rise to 10°C to 20°C, Salzburg awakens in full bloom. The Mirabell Garden is at its most beautiful, and the city is still free from the summer crowds. Though occasional showers are expected, it's a great time for outdoor activities and relaxing strolls.
Summer (June to August)
With warm temperatures between 18°C and 25°C, summer is the busiest season in Salzburg. The highlight is the renowned Salzburg Festival, which fills the city with music and culture. Be prepared for some rain, even in summer, so pack accordingly.
Autumn (September to October)
With cooler temperatures from 9°C to 18°C and brilliant fall colors, autumn offers a quieter, more scenic experience. It's the perfect time for hiking, photography, and enjoying the region’s wine festivals and culinary events. Don't miss the Rupertikirtag at the end of September.
Winter (December to February)
Winter turns Salzburg into a snowy wonderland, with temperatures ranging from -5°C to 5°C. The city's Christmas markets and festive atmosphere are magical, and the nearby Alps offer fantastic skiing. For winter sports enthusiasts, Salzburg’s proximity to the mountains is a real bonus.
Getting to Salzburg
Thanks to its central location between Munich and Vienna, Salzburg is easy to reach.
By Train
Salzburg is well-connected by train, with direct routes from Germany and Switzerland. Regular services run from Munich, Vienna, and Bregenz. The modern main station is conveniently close to the city center.
By Car
If you want to explore the region in more depth, having a car is a great option. Be aware that tolls apply on highways and some scenic roads, such as the Großglockner High Alpine Road and Postalmstraße near Abtenau.
By Plane
Salzburg Airport is only 4 km from the city center. Buses 2 and 8 will get you downtown in just 20 minutes.
By Long-Distance Bus
Long-distance buses like Flixbus link Salzburg to many European cities. The bus station is located outside the center, so you’ll need a 20-minute bus ride to reach the city.
SalzburgerLand Card
If you're planning to explore the region extensively, the all-inclusive SalzburgerLand Card could be a great deal. Available from May to November, it grants access to around 180 attractions, including mountain lifts, museums, nature experiences, and thermal spas. You can choose between a 6- or 12-day pass, which also includes either a 24-hour pass for Salzburg or a trip on the Großglockner High Alpine Road. In 2024, the card costs €95 for 6 days or €118 for 12 days. Discounted rates are available for children. For more details, visit Salzburgerland.
