Salzburg

The joke 'If it ain't baroque, don't fix it' is a perfect maxim for Salzburg: the story-book Altstadt (old town) burrowed below steep hills looks much as it did when Mozart lived here 250 years ago. Beside the fast-flowing Salzach River, your gaze is raised inch by inch to graceful domes and spires, the formidable clifftop fortress and the mountains beyond. It's a backdrop that did the lordly prince-archbishops and Maria proud.

Looking out from Mönchsberg over central Salzburg – the city on the Salzach river and at the foot of the Hohensalzburg Fortress.

©Jonathon Stokes/Lonely Planet

Latest Stories
Book
App
Lonely Planet App on a phone
Brand New!

Get the Lonely Planet App

World Nomads travel insurance
Trusted Partner

Dreaming of Salzburg? Protect your trip

Travel with confidence. Protect your trip and your wallet.

We don’t represent World Nomads, we receive a fee from quotes using this link. This is not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.

Take your Austria trip with Lonely Planet Journeys

Time to book that trip to Austria

Lonely Planet Journeys takes you there with fully customizable trips to top destinations – all crafted by our local experts.

start planning learn more

Top places to visit in Salzburg

Discover the best attractions in Salzburg from must-see sights to unexpected hidden gems.

Explore all

Travel Guides

Salzburg travel tips from Lonely Planet experts

Find practical guidance from our team of contributors around the world who bring their decades of first-hand travel experience to your next trip.

Best Things to Do

Discover the best things to do in Salzburg – from Mozart concerts to Sound of Music bike rides and Alpine hikes to Habsburg palaces.

Read full article

Things to Know

Make the most of your trip to the vibrant city of Salzburg with tips on what to pack, how to get around, where to find medical help and more.

Read full article

Transportation

The marvelous Austrian city of Salzburg is a breeze to get around, whether you use the train, the bus or your own two feet.

Read full article

Free Things to Do

Get the lowdown on what to see and do in Salzburg for free - from above-the-city strolls to refreshing canal swims.

Read full article

Best Neighborhoods

Compact Salzburg is easy to explore on foot or by bike, so fascinating neighbourhoods are all well within range. These are the best.

Read full article

Day Trips

One glance at Salzburg’s palaces and mountains and it’s love, but the rest of central Austria is worth exploring too. Try these top day trips from Salzburg.

Read full article

Money and Costs

Get the inside scoop on how to see Salzburg on a budget – from Mozart melodies to mountain heights.

Read full article

Get a book. Get inspired. Get exploring.

Explore all books

in partnership with getyourguide

Book popular activities in Salzburg