HIGHLIGHTS OF THE CITY
I visited the very picturesque city of Salzburg, which lies at the foot of the Alps in Austria, on a day trip from Passau, Germany. It was a 2 hour bus ride, across the border to one of Austria’s most popular tourist destinations and arguably the prettiest place in the country.
I was excited to visit the city I had looked forward to seeing since first watching The Sound Of Music many years ago. Aside from being famous for the movie, it is also the birthplace of Mozart and has a beautiful Baroque old town, a huge fortress and a picturesque river.
It was a magical day in Salzburg, with sunny Autumn weather and my day excursion started with a guided tour, then some time exploring on my own.
These are my highlights of the city which are all part of the old town precinct.
About Salzurg Old Town
Salzburg old town is the historic centre and one of the most beautiful old towns I’ve ever seen. Easily walkable, the area is a delightful, charming and well preserved centre with narrow alleys, courtyards, cobblestone streets and heritage buildings.
I was fascinated to see that much of the old town is surrounded by or built into the huge rock face of the Mönchsberg mountain. Exploring the old town was magical, partly on my own and partly with a tour guide, who provided interesting stories about the city. The area is mostly pedestrian with hidden gems at every turn, medieval buildings with cultural heritage, plus so many cute shops and cafes. A lot of the buildings have walk ways with shopping arcades and courtyards.
As a UNESCO World Heritage Site the old town is a hub of historic architecture dating from medieval times. Many Baroque buildings grace the city. Grand churches, palaces, fountains statues. Furthermore, Salzburg has the reputation of being a centre of excellence for classical music.
Getreidegasse
Getreidegasse is the main street with adorable shops and elaborate wrought iron signs above them. These were originally created to advertise the type of business to the many people who were illiterate.
The street was a medieval trade route, and is still the busiest and most popular part of the city.
Mozart’s Birthplace
Mozart’s Birthplace is a huge attraction here. A bright yellow building in the busiest street is where the famous composer, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was born. I was enthralled to see the apartment building where he lived for many years with his family. No. 9 Getreidegasse is now a museum of the famous composer and the Salzburg Festival is held here.
Another Mozart Museum exists at the Mozart Residence at No. 8 Makartplatz, where he also lived.
The whole city is like a living monument dedicated to Mozart with references to him everywhere. Mozart’s home, Mozart Museum, Mozart Statue, Mozart Square, Mozart Bridge, Mozart Cafe, Mozarteum University of Music, and of course there is a plethora of Mozart souvenirs for sale. The city also hosts an annual Mozart Festival each Summer.
Salzburg loves Mozart but unfortunately he didn’t feel the same about the city. It is well documented that he was unhappy here.
I also find it strange that no actual portrait of Mozart exists.
DomQuartier
DomQuartier was the former centre of power and residence of the Prince-Archbishops, leaders of Salzburg, for centuries. Now, it is an expansive museum complex showcasing their historical political governance and ecclesiastical power, plus art, music and architecture of the city.
Many of the State Rooms are open to visitors, as well as the Cathedral Museum, the Residenzgalerie of European art, and the Rupertinum Gallery of Modern art.
The DomQuartier is located at both the Residenzplatz and Domplatz, in the centre of the old town.
Admission is granted with the Salzburg Card. At least 2 hours are required to see all the complex.
The Residenzplatz square is also one of the filming locations of The Sound of Music.
When I was here, a large glass pyramid was covering the Marien Statue in front of Salzburg Cathedral at Domplatz, to protect it during the harsh winter months. It resembles un petite Louvre, no?
Salzburg Cathedral
Salzburg Cathedral, an iconic landmark of the city and spiritual heart of the city, located in Domplatz. The church has been consecrated 3 times, as it has been rebuilt after fires twice, but was first constructed in 767. This catholic Baroque style church bears twin spires.
This is where Mozart was baptised and the church he attended with his family.
There is a small fee to enter the church.
Short concerts are held here regularly.
St Peter’s Abbey
St Peter’s Abbey is an ancient Benedictine monastery which dates from the year 700. Monastic life has continued here throughout history. It houses a Romanesque Basilica, crypts and catacombs, galleries and courtyard, and a famous restaurant (see more below).
Entry to the main part of the Abbey is free.
Oldest Restaurant In Europe
One of the most magical things I experienced during my day in Salzburg is lunch at the oldest restaurant in Europe, called St Peter Stiftskeller (documented by Alcuin of York, adviser to Charlemagne).
Located in St Peter’s Abbey complex this charming historic restaurant has been in existence since the year 803, and is used also as an event venue. I was fortunate to dine in the main hall, as part of a tour, and was blown away by the splendid surroundings of this famous fine dining establishment, where Mozart and his family dined many times, as well as many other famous figures, such as Christopher Colombus.
Another interesting feature is part of the building is carved directly into the rock face of the mountainside. Originally, the dining space served as a monastic wine cellar and for communal meals providing free food for religious pilgrims and travellers passing through Salzburg.
These days you can attend a Mozart Dinner Concert here with musicians and singers, complete with Baroque costumes, dedicated to the composer. Reservations aren’t too difficult to procure.
Mirabell Palace
Mirabell Palace is definitely a magical part of Salzburg and a popular tourist attraction. It is not located in the old town exactly but across the river. The Baroque building is famous as the filming site of various scenes from The Sound of Music.
Furthermore, Mozart once played here in the Marble Hall, where classical concerts are held. Concerts with renowned musicians of small ensembles and soloists take place daily at Mirabell Palace.
Built in 1610 by the Prince Archbishop at the time for his mistress and their umpteen children, Mirabell Palace is now the home of the Mayor and municipal offices.
You can see inside parts of the Palace at certain times for free.
Mirabell Palace Gardens is where The Sound of Music cast, Maria and children, performed Do-Re-Mi by the fountain. The famous geometric gardens were typical of the Baroque era (1600-1750). There is a cute dwarf garden, a hedge theatre, a horse pond and various Roman God statues to see. Visit the Mirabell Palace Gardens for free.
Hohensalzburg Fortress
Hohensalzburg is one of the largest medieval fortresses in Europe, dating from the 11th century and one of Salzburg’s main landmarks, commanding attention from the hilltop.
Construction spanned over 6 centuries and was residence of the Prince-Archbishops of the Holy Roman Empire.
The Golden Hall here holds concerts, including Best of Mozart’s music.
Take a short walk up the hill from the old town, or alternatively there is a funicular up to the fortress, enjoy the stunning views and explore the museums.
Use the Salzburg City Card to visit.
Salzach River
The main river flowing through Salzburg is the beautiful Salzach River, with walking paths on either side and several bridges crossing it, including the Mozart Bridge. The river separates the Old Town and the newer area of the city.
Cruises are available along the Salzach River to enjoy for views of the city from the water.
More of Salzburg
I love exploring old cities and always seek out hidden gems and sites a little off the beaten path. This city is a joy to stroll and do just that, learning new things as you go. Here are more interesting places in the old town.
SNAZZY TIPS FOR VISITING SALZBURG
- Salzburg City Card – Use for access to museums, tours, transport and more
- Hop-On-Hop-Off – City Bus Tour
- Salzburg Car Rental – Book a car
- Eurail Austria – Use one rail pass for all of Austria
- Salzburg travel website – Consult for general info.
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