TOP 16 Things To Do in Salzburg for First Time Visitors

Salzburg might be most famous (especially if you grew up in North America) for being the backdrop of The Sound of Music. Honestly, that was the only thing I really associated it with before going. But when I visited on a Christmas family trip, I was blown away. The snow, the mountains, the way the whole city lights up, it was so much more magical than I expected.

What surprised me most is how much there is to do here. Salzburg is a small city, but my days were packed. One morning, I was hiking up to a fortress, later that afternoon I was wandering cobbled streets with hot chocolate in hand, and by evening I was sitting in Mirabell Palace listening to Mozart performed live. It felt like stepping into different centuries all in one day.

This things to do in Salzburg guide is basically the best of what I discovered, places that absolutely live up to the hype, along with a few gems that not every tourist will have on their radar. My goal is to give you the kind of trip I wish someone had mapped out for me when I went.

Salzburg Places to Visit – My Experience

The first time I visited Salzburg, I went full-on travel tourist. My family and I hiked up to the fortress, went on a Sound of Music tour, checked out Mozart’s birthplace, basically, we did almost everything on the list. And it was epic. Salzburg is such an engaging city, whether you’re just strolling through the cobblestone streets or diving into its history.

A few years later, I was lucky enough to spend an entire summer here, and that’s when I really got to experience the local side of life. Instead of just following the tourist trail, I found myself swimming in the gorgeous lakes, having beers with locals in hidden beer gardens, and seeing a version of Salzburg I never would’ve discovered if I hadn’t come back.

Both trips were absolutely fantastic, and I still love all the “touristy” things, because let’s be real, they’re popular for a reason. But now I get to put it all together for you: a well-rounded list of the best things to do in Salzburg, with a mix of local gems and can’t-miss classics.

16 Best Things to Do in Salzburg

So, let’s get into it: the best things to do in Salzburg. From big-name sights you’ve probably already heard of to a few local gems you might not expect, here’s everything I loved and recommend for your trip.

1. Hike up to the Hohensalzburg Fortress

As soon as you arrive in Salzburg, you can’t miss the massive fortress perched high above the city, it’s the most iconic landmark and absolutely worth a visit.

We hiked up instead of taking the funicular. It was a little steep but totally doable, and the views from the top were incredible. Inside, you can wander through rooms, museums, and even medieval weapon displays. At 11:30 a.m. they fired off cannons, which was such a cool surprise. They do it every day, so I recommend coming at this time. 

There are also a couple of cafes up at the top, but in my opinion, I don’t recommend eating here as it’s super touristy and the food isn’t all that good, but it a great place to stop and have a beer. You’ll find way better places to eat in Salzburg after leaving the fortress.

💡Buy your entrance tickets here!

2. Visit the Salzburg Cathedral

Right in the heart of Old Town, Salzburg Cathedral is one of those places that makes you stop and stare the second you walk up. The inside is just as impressive, with white stone walls, intricate details, and massive domes that flood with light. 

It’s also where Mozart was baptized, which feels pretty wild when you’re standing there. I wouldn’t spend hours here, but it’s definitely worth stepping inside for the history, the atmosphere, and a quick escape from the busy squares outside.

3. Get Lost in Mirabell Gardens

Mirabell Gardens is one of my favorite spots in Salzburg, especially in the afternoons. When I lived here, I’d grab a coffee from my go-to café and wander over just to enjoy the colors of the flowers and do a little people-watching. 

The gardens are beautifully designed by Archbishop Wolf Dietrich, with fountains, statues, and views of the fortress in the background. Of course, The Sound of Music fans will recognize it right away, but even if you’ve never seen the movie, it’s just a gorgeous and peaceful place to slow down. 

4. Wander Around Salzburg Old Town (Altstadt)

Salzburg’s Old Town is a Unesco World Heritage Site and is one of those places where you can wander for hours without a plan and still feel like you’ve seen something amazing. My brother and I even stopped to play a round of chess on the giant life-size board in one of the squares; it’s little things like that that make this part of the city feel so fun.

Here are a few highlights to look out for as you explore:

• Residenzplatz and Mozartplatz (two of the main squares)
• The giant chessboard in Kapitelplatz
• Salzburg Cathedral and St. Peter’s Abbey nearby
• Cute courtyards, cafés, and boutique shops tucked into side streets

It’s the perfect area to just let yourself get lost.

5. Shop Along Getreidegasse

Getreidegasse is Salzburg’s most famous shopping street, and yeah, it can get really crowded during the height of the day in summer. I learned quickly to hit it early in the morning when it’s much quieter, and you can actually enjoy wandering the street instead of dodging crowds. 

The mix of shops is awesome: big names like Zara and Mango sit alongside tons of Austrian brands, and the street itself is full of charm with those iconic wrought-iron signs and pastel buildings. Definitely a must-see, even if you’re just window shopping.

6. Mozart’s Birthplace (Mozarts Geburtshaus)

I’ll be honest, I didn’t actually go inside since I’m not a huge Mozart buff (maybe I would be if I did!), but this place is impossible to miss. The bright yellow house in Old Town is one of the most visited museums in Austria, and for good reason.

It’s the birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, one of the world’s most famous composers, and walking past it really gives you a sense of history. Even if you skip the museum, it’s worth stopping to snap a few photos, soak in the atmosphere, and imagine the early life of a musical genius who changed classical music forever.

7. Mozart’s Residence (Mozart-Wohnhaus)

While we’re on the topic of Mozart, I’ll throw in Mozart’s Residence. Honestly, this one isn’t a must-see for everyone; it’s less popular and a bit quieter than his birthplace. But if you’re a huge Mozart fan, you’ll love seeing where he lived later in life, complete with original instruments and some family history. 

It gives a fuller picture of his world, and since it’s usually less crowded, you can actually take your time and enjoy it without feeling rushed. I hate to say it, but I also didn’t visit this one, so you’ll have to let me know how it is! 

8. St. Peter’s Abbey & Cemetery

This is a can’t-miss spot… literally, it’s right next to where you start the hike up to the fortress, so you really can’t overlook it. The abbey itself is gorgeous, with beautiful architecture and a peaceful interior that’s worth a quick visit. 

The cemetery sits right next door in the heart of Old Town, with ivy-covered walls, historic tombstones, and incredible atmosphere. The Sound of Music even filmed a scene here with the von Trapp kids running through the graveyard. Oliver and I wandered around, hunting for the oldest headstone, and it was amazing to see how long this place has been standing.

9. Spend the Afternoon at A Traditional Beer Garden

You can’t go to Austria and skip a beer garden! My favorite in Salzburg is Augustiner Bräu Mülln. It’s a little outside the city center, about a 15-minute walk or a quick bus ride, but so worth it. I was blown away by how big it is, and every time I went, it was packed. 

The setup is classic with long communal tables, a few tucked off to the side, and a fun ritual for getting your beer. You grab a stein, order your drink, then fill it up yourself at the fountain area. I loved that it was full of both locals and tourists, so you get the real vibe without feeling like you’re being ripped off.

10. Join a Sound of Music Tour

I’ll admit, I’m not a huge fan of the movie; I’m actually not even sure I’ve seen it all the way through, but my sister-in-law was so pumped for this tour. Even so, I had a really great time visiting the different filming locations. 

The tour isn’t just about the movie; you also get little tidbits about Austrian history, culture, and life in Salzburg, which makes it way more interesting than I expected. It’s a fun mix of iconic scenery and learning something new, even if you’re not a die-hard fan. You can book your tour here!

11. Check out Hellbrunn Palace

Hellbrunn Palace is a beautiful baroque palace with sprawling gardens, elegant courtyards, and a quirky sense of fun. One of the highlights is the trick fountains, water shoots out from hidden spots, and while you might get a little sprinkle, you won’t get soaked. 

When I visited, it was such a laugh seeing people try to dodge them. In the winter, the palace also hosts one of the best Christmas markets in Salzburg, making it a great stop any time of year. It’s a mix of history, beauty, and playful surprises.

12. Explore the Red Bull Hangar-7

Oliver is a huge Formula 1 fan, so this was such a fun surprise for him. I literally had no idea this place existed before we went, and even as a non-fan, I thought it was really cool. Hangar-7 is part aviation museum, part art gallery, and part showcase for Red Bull’s collection of planes, helicopters, and F1 cars. T

hey’re all displayed in a stunning modern glass-and-steel building. This is one of the best free things to do in Salzburg; it’s just a quick bus ride from the city center, making it an easy and unique stop.

13. Go on A Boat Tour on the Salzach River

I’ve never actually done this one myself, I always meant to but never got around to it, but from what I’ve heard, it’s a really unique way to see the city and learn a bit about its history. The boats give a different perspective of the Old Town, the fortress, and the surrounding scenery. 

If you have a Salzburg Card, the tour is free, and the card also covers a bunch of other things like public transportation and the funicular up to Hohensalzburg Fortress, making it a great value. You can purchase it here!

14. Take a Day Trip to Hallstatt

If you have three days in Salzburg, I highly recommend dedicating one to a day trip to Hallstatt. Oliver and I set out early one morning and arrived before 9 a.m., beating most of the crowds, and wow, it was honestly magical. 

Hallstatt is the village that inspired the movie Frozen, and walking through it feels like stepping into a storybook. With its colorful houses lining the lake, charming streets, and surrounding mountains, it’s stunning from every angle. Whether you want to take photos, stroll along the waterfront, or explore the salt mines nearby, Hallstatt is a must-see day trip from Salzburg.

15. Take a Dip in The Lakes Around Salzburg

Salzburg is surrounded by stunning lakes, and when I lived here, I tried to visit as many as I could. My personal favorite was Fuschlsee, the water is a gorgeous shade of turquoise, super refreshing, and the hillsides are perfect for laying out in the sun. Wolfgangsee and Mondsee are also worth a visit for their charming villages and mountain views. 

Closer to the city, I loved Waldbad Anif, just a 15-minute bike ride away, with decks to lounge on, zip lines, and a volleyball court. It’s the perfect summer day escape and a real taste of local life.

16. Visit the Christmas Markets in December

The first time I visited Salzburg was at Christmas, and I have to say, as much as I love Europe in the summer, Christmas time just hits different. Salzburg is absolutely magical during the holidays, with twinkling lights, festive stalls, and the scent of mulled wine and roasted chestnuts in the air. 

The main market in the Residenzplatz Square is gorgeous, but there are plenty of smaller ones scattered throughout the city, each with its own charm. If you’re visiting in December, this is non-negotiable; you can check out my full Christmas Market Itinerary to the 5 Best Christmas Markets in Salzburg for all the must-see spots.

FAQ: Attractions in Salzburg Austria

Unique Things to Do in Salzburg?

One of my favorite unique spots was Waldbad Anif, a lake close to the city with zip lines and volleyball courts, also I’d hit Hangar-7 to check out the planes and F1 cars, and of course, a traditional beer garden like Augustiner Bräu Mülln is a must for a unique experience in Salzburg.

Things to Do in Salzburg with Kids?

When I visited with family, the giant chessboard in Kapitelplatz was a total hit, and the trick fountains at Hellbrunn Palace had everyone laughing. A boat ride on the Salzach River is also fun and low-stress for little ones. Even just strolling through Mirabell Gardens will keep everyone entertained with space to run and fountains to watch.

Things to Do in Salzburg in December?

I came to Salzburg at Christmas, and it was magical with lights, mulled wine, and festive stalls everywhere. Hitting the Christmas markets is a must, but I also loved strolling through Old Town with the snow lightly falling. Even the fortress looks extra epic when dusted with snow.

Things to Do in Salzburg in One Day?

If you only have one day, I’d start with the fortress for the views, wander Old Town, and hit Mirabell Gardens. Mozart’s Birthplace is quick to check out, and maybe squeeze in a coffee at Getreidegasse. Basically, just let yourself wander, it’s small enough that one activity naturally leads to the next.

Are 2 Days Enough for Salzburg?

Absolutely! Two days lets you cover all the highlights: fortress, Old Town, Mirabell Gardens, and a few museums. You could even add in a half day tour to Hallstatt or join the Sound of Music Tour. 2 days in Salzburg really lets you experience the things to see in Salzburg while also going at your own pace.

Wrapping Up Things to Do in Salzburg

If you need to narrow this down, I’d recommend hitting the popular Salzburg tourist attractions first: Hohensalzburg Fortress for the views, wandering Old Town, a stop at Mirabell Gardens, and, if you have time, a day trip to Hallstatt. From there, sprinkle in a few local favorites like Fuschlsee, Hangar 7, or a beer garden for a true taste of Salzburg life.

One of the things I love most about Salzburg is how everything kind of flows together. The city is small, so as you wander, you’ll realize that one activity naturally leads to the next, you’ll end up hitting most of the highlights without even trying. Follow this guide, and you’ll leave loving the city as much as I do.

Check Out My Other Salzburg Guides

Where to Stay in Salzburg Austria: My Top Hotels and Areas

Is Salzburg Worth Visiting: My Honest Review

Best Time to Visit Salzburg: My Weather Guide to Salzburg Austria

2 Days in Salzburg Itinerary: How I Spent 48 Hours in Salzburg

Restaurants in Salzburg: My Top Places to Eat in Salzburg

Cafes in Salzburg: My Favorite Coffee Spots

How to Get from Vienna to Salzburg: My Personal Travel Tips

How Many Days in Salzburg: My Tips for Your Next Salzburg Trip

Salzburg Christmas Markets: My Top Christmas Markets in Salzburg

Is Hallstatt Worth Visiting? My Honest Review

Salzburg to Hallstatt Day Trip: 3 Ways to Visiting Hallstatt

Things to Do in Salzburg: My Top Activities in Salzburg