Best 20 things to do in Salzburg, Austria

Welcome to Salzburg, the city that will have you singing "The hills are alive with the sound of music!" Whether you're a culture vulture, a history buff, or seeking some adventure, we've got you covered in this quirky guide. From exploring the majestic Mirabell Palace gardens and relishing Mozart's music to biking through picturesque vineyards, Salzburg offers an abundance of delights to charm even the most skeptical traveler. So put on your lederhosen or dirndl, grab a Mozartkugel (a delicious chocolate treat), and get ready to immerse yourself in the enchanting spirit of this Mozart-loving, paradise of a city!

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1. Salzburg Marionette Theatre

4.7 (388)

Schwarzstraße 24, 5020 Salzburg, Austria

Deep in the heart of Salzburg, where Mozart once tickled the ivories, lies the enchanting Salzburg Marionette Theatre, a hidden gem for those yearning to be delighted. Here, tiny wooden puppets come to life, swaying like drunken ballerinas and delivering performances that make even the Mona Lisa crack a smile. As you marvel at the intricate strings that control these pint-sized thespians, be prepared to laugh, cry, and maybe even have an existential crisis about the meaning of life—all artfully orchestrated by wooden beings with more talent than your average dance floor dweller.

www.marionetten.at

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2. Salzburg Baroque Museum

4.3 (770)

Mozartpl. 1, 5020 Salzburg, Austria

Nestled in the heart of Salzburg, the Salzburg Baroque Museum is a fantastical wonderland that will transport you back in time to an era where powdered wigs and flamboyant fashion ruled the day. It's a treasure trove of Baroque art and artifacts that will have you questioning your place in the modern world – perhaps you'll even be inspired to don a corset or two. Beware, though: if you're looking for a museum experience with interactive exhibits and virtual reality, you might be better off sticking to your trusty time-traveling DeLorean.

www.salzburgmuseum.at

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3. Leopoldskron Palace

4.6 (828)

Leopoldskronstraße 56/58, 5020 Salzburg, Austria

Nestled amidst the enchanting city of Salzburg, the Leopoldskron Palace awaits visitors with its grandeur and quirkiness. This architectural gem, graced with sweeping views of a serene lake, is bound to make you feel like royalty, or at the very least, a witty and charismatic aristocrat. While exploring its impeccably manicured gardens and opulent interiors, perhaps you'll even stumble upon a hidden door leading to a secret room filled with chocolate cake - one can certainly daydream!

www.schloss-leopoldskron.com

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4. Salzburg Zoo

4.6 (9956)

Hellbrunnerstraße 60, 5081 Anif, Austria

Welcome to Salzburg Zoo, where animals and laughter meet in a harmony like Mozart's symphonies. Prepare to embark on a wild adventure into a world that will make your heart roar with delight. From mischievous monkeys swinging through the treetops to penguins waddling around like they've just discovered the slippery secret to life, this zoo promises a whimsical experience that will leave you feeling more alive than ever before.

salzburg-zoo.at

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5. Hohensalzburg Fortress

4.6 (38142)

Mönchsberg 34, 5020 Salzburg, Austria

Welcome to Hohensalzburg Fortress, the majestic hilltop castle that defies gravity and tickles the clouds! This medieval marvel in Salzburg boasts not just breathtaking views, but also a bonus workout for your glutes on its staircases that seem to have a secret pact with escalators. Be prepared to feel like a fairytale character as you explore the maze of chambers, where you might stumble upon a knight playing the banjo or a princess stealing the Wi-Fi password.

www.salzburg-burgen.at

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6. Salzburg Cathedral

4.7 (9037)

Domplatz 1a, 5020 Salzburg, Austria

Nestled in the charming city of Salzburg, the Salzburg Cathedral awaits you with open arms, ready to bless your presence with the divine blend of beauty and grandeur. As you approach the cathedral, be prepared to crane your neck and possibly strain your eyebrows in awe of its impressive stature. Inside, a symphony of architectural marvels will greet your eyes, leaving you pondering whether the architects were trying to build a place of worship or a challenge for aspiring neck gymnasts.

www.salzburger-dom.at

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7. Mozart's Residence

4.1 (5366)

Makartplatz 8, 5020 Salzburg, Austria

Welcome to Mozart's Residence in Salzburg, where the musical genius went from playing child prodigy to adult virtuoso! Step into this grand abode and imagine little Wolfgang, practicing his scales until his fingers felt like octopus tentacles (minus the suction cups). Explore the elegantly adorned rooms where Mozart composed symphonies while trying desperately not to be interrupted by his mischievous pet parakeet, who had a knack for singing off-key at the most inconvenient moments.

mozarteum.at

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8. Mirabell Palace and Gardens

4.5 (22985)

Mirabellplatz 4, 5020 Salzburg, Austria

Welcome to Mirabell Palace and Gardens, where the beauty of Salzburg hits you like a delicious Mozart-inspired uppercut. This charming palace, dating back to the 17th century, is a delightful blend of Baroque architecture and the occasional shrubbery that knows how to let loose. Explore the vibrant gardens, where the flowers bloom brighter than a peacock's feathers and the statues strike poses as dramatic as an opera diva in her prime. Trust us, you'll leave feeling like you've just won a trip to a whimsical wonderland.

www.salzburg.info

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9. Hangar-7

4.7 (12236)

Wilhelm-Spazier-Straße 7a, 5020 Salzburg, Austria

Welcome to Hangar-7 in Salzburg, the craziest way to fuel your appetite for adventure! This astonishing structure is not your average hangar - it's a jaw-dropping mix of steel, glass, and a dash of Picasso's imagination. Explore this bizarre fusion of art and aviation, where you can witness planes hanging from the ceiling like eager trapeze artists, while savoring Michelin-starred meals that will make your taste buds do the tango. With Hangar-7, you no longer have to choose between a thrilling flight or a scrumptious meal - get ready to dine amidst aeronautical wonders and feel like a gourmet pilot in this one-of-a-kind eatery!

www.hangar-7.com

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10. Mozart's Birthplace

4.2 (19153)

Getreidegasse 9, 5020 Salzburg, Austria

Welcome to the birthplace of the musical prodigy, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart! Prepare to be blown away by this charismatic shrine of classical melodies tucked away in the enchanting city of Salzburg. Meander through the elegant halls, where Mozart's ghost still tries to figure out how to play golf, and soak in the artistic vibes that will make even the most tone-deaf of visitors hum along to Symphony No. 40 involuntarily. This is one tour you wouldn't want to miss, unless you prefer spending your vacation as a symphony ignoramus!

mozarteum.at

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11. Getreidegasse

Getreidegasse, 5020 Salzburg, Austria

Welcome to Getreidegasse, the charming and slightly crooked heartstring of Salzburg! Stroll along this whimsical street and prepare to be awestruck by the delightful mishmash of narrow, colorful buildings. Don't be surprised if you find yourself navigating past countless traditional shops, where Mozart's soul seems to have concocted an intricate plan to lure tourists and retain your salary. Just remember, when you're here, getting lost in Getreidegasse is not a faux pas but rather part of the bumpy, inexplicably satisfying experience!

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12. Gaisberg

4.8 (302)

Gaisberg, 5026 Salzburg, Austria

Welcome to the charming village of Gaisberg, nestled in the scenic region of Salzburg! Home to picturesque landscapes, this delightful destination offers something for everyone. From its rolling hills that seem to whisper tales of hidden treasures, to its quaint little cafes where you can sip coffee with the locals, Gaisberg is a place where the air is fresher, the skies bluer, and your worries melt away faster than cheese on a favorite Austrian delicacy. So, put on your hiking boots, channel your inner Julie Andrews, and get ready for an adventure that combines breathtaking views, a touch of Mozart, and perhaps even a yodel or two!

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13. Untersberg

4.8 (243)

Untersberg, 83471 Bischofswiesener Forst, Germany

Welcome to the magnificent Untersberg in Salzburg, where a breath-taking combination of nature and myths will leave you questioning reality. Towering majestically over the landscape, this glorious mountain invites you to embark on an adventure that may or may not involve extra-terrestrial encounters. Home to legendary tales, conspiracy theories, and the occasional lost sock, this mystical marvel is guaranteed to keep you both entertained and slightly confused. So pack your hiking boots, a healthy dose of skepticism, and prepare to have your mind blown on the otherworldly ride of a lifetime!

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14. Mönchsberg

Mönchsberg, 5020 Salzburg, Austria

Nestled in the charming city of Salzburg, Mönchsberg rises like a majestic pimple on the face of the landscape. Offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city, this hill is perfect for those seeking a hike that's slightly more uphill than their morning stroll to the bakery. Points of interest include the Museum of Modern Art, where you can marvel at avant-garde masterpieces while silently debating whether that abstract painting is actually worthy of your fridge door.

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15. Stiegl-Brauwelt

4.5 (3452)

Bräuhausstraße 9, 5020 Salzburg, Austria

Welcome to Stiegl-Brauwelt in Salzburg, where beer isn't just a beverage, it's an art that flows through the veins of locals and visitors alike. This lively establishment is like a boozy playground for adults, where you can embark on a hop-tastic journey filled with giggles and cheer. Join the beer pilgrims in their quest to taste the golden nectar straight from the heart of Salzburg, and you won't be disappointed (or sober) by the end of your visit!

brauwelt.at

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16. Salzburg Museum

4.3 (770)

Mozartpl. 1, 5020 Salzburg, Austria

Welcome to the charming Salzburg Museum, where history and culture come together in a delightful avalanche of exhibitions. Prepare to be whisked away on a journey through time, as this museum boasts a collection that spans from prehistoric times to the modern day – forget about keeping track of the centuries, you'll need your GPS! Don't be surprised if you find yourself accidentally stumbling upon Mozart around every corner, because what's a visit to Salzburg without bumping into the musical maestro?

www.salzburgmuseum.at

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17. Salzburg Residenz

4.7 (258)

Residenzpl. 1, 5020 Salzburg, Austria

Welcome to the Salzburg Residenz, where you can feel like royalty without the annoying politics or a throne that cramps your style. With its opulent halls and grand architecture, this place is the ultimate crib for those who want to live large, Mozart-style. Get ready to explore this palace that screams, "Look, I'm fancy, but I'm also totally down to party!"

www.domquartier.at

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18. Salzburg Marionette Museum

3.8 (43)

Mönchsberg 34, 5020 Salzburg, Austria

Welcome to Salzburg, where beautiful music and delightful puppets come together at the Salzburg Marionette Museum. Step into this enchanting treasure trove and prepare to be charmed by their impressive collection. From the tiniest strings to the grandest stages, these marionettes will dance their way into your heart and remind you why puppet shows are not just for kids.

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19. Hellbrunn Palace and Trick Fountains

4.6 (15158)

Fürstenweg 37, 5020 Salzburg, Austria

Welcome to Hellbrunn Palace, where the trick fountains can make even the most dignified tourist feel like a hapless victim in a water-based comedy show. Discover a place where the fountains have a mischievous streak, spewing water on unsuspecting visitors faster than a faulty fire hydrant. Don't forget your umbrella, but be prepared to protect yourself from the sneaky aquatic surprises that lie around every corner in this land of watery wonders!

www.hellbrunn.at

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20. St. Peter's Abbey

4.6 (886)

Sankt-Peter-Bezirk 1, 5020 Salzburg, Austria

Welcome to St. Peter's Abbey in Salzburg, where you can experience a dose of history with a sprinkle of beauty. This magnificent abbey, which has been around since the dark ages, welcomes visitors with open arms and a cheeky smile. Prepare to be wowed by its stunning Baroque architecture, gracefully aging like a fine medieval wine.

www.erzabtei.at

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How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Salzburg, Austria by plane is to fly into Salzburg Airport (SZG). There are several airlines that offer direct flights to Salzburg from major European cities.

Car

The best way to get to Salzburg, Austria by car is to drive from Munich. The journey takes around 1.5 hours and the route follows the A8 motorway towards Salzburg.

Train

The best way to get to Salzburg, Austria by train is to take the EuroCity (EC) train from Vienna to Salzburg. The journey takes around 2-3 hours and the train departs from Wien Hauptbahnhof (Vienna Central Station) and arrives at Salzburg Hauptbahnhof (Salzburg Central Station).

Boat

There is no direct way to get to Salzburg, Austria by boat. However, it is possible to take a boat from Passau, Germany to Linz, Austria and then take a train or bus to Salzburg.

Bus

The best way to get to Salzburg, Austria by bus is to take the Flixbus from Munich. The journey takes around 2 hours and the bus departs from Munich Central Bus Station (ZOB) and arrives at Salzburg Main Station.

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