Here we go: About Salzburg
Before exploring the most beautiful must-see places in the fairytale city of Salzburg, let’s take a closer look at the cornerstones of its history. Salzburg, the capital of north-central Austria, is set in the northern foothills of the Alps and bisected by the Salzach River. Home to many civilizations throughout history, including the Celts and the Romans, Salzburg’s current texture was mainly developed between the Middle Ages and the 19th century. It is considered to be the point where the Italian and German cultures met and played a crucial role in the exchanges between these two cultures.
Places to visit
Residenzplatz
Prince-archbishop Wolf Dietrich von Raitenau, who led Salzburg from 1587 to 1612, commissioned five grand squares, one of which is the Residenzplatz. Featuring the Residenzbrunnen, a magnificent Baroque fountain, the historical square – a top attraction in Salzburg – also houses the Government House and the Residenz Palace. It now serves as a setting for sports and music events, as well as Christmas markets and other fairs.
Kapitelplatz
Adjacent to the Salzburg Cathedral, the Kapitelplatz is a popular gathering place in the historic center. In addition to an 18th century Baroque fountain, the square features a mammoth sculpture of a man atop a golden sphere. Created by artist Stephan Balkenhol, the piece is one of the most striking in Salzburg.
Hohensalzburg Castle
Built in 1077 by archbishop Gebhard, Hohensalzburg Fortress is set atop the Festungsberg. The Fortress acquired its current appearance around 1500, under archbishop Leonhard von Keutschach. In addition to panoramic views of the city and countryside, the complex features a fascinating museum. Hohensalzburg Fortress is accessible via foot or by funicular.
Getreidegasse and Mozart’s birthplace
As Salzburg’s busiest and most popular street, it is almost impossible to visit the city and not spend some time on the Getreidegasse. Featuring a wide range of shops and restaurants, the street is also famous for its wrought-iron aesthetic artisan signage tradition and historical through-houses, many of which now house galleries or boutiques. Identified by its yellow exterior and the crowds gathered in front, the house where Mozart was born is yet another attraction on the Getreidegasse. Mozart and his family lived here until 1773, and the home’s flats and other floors now serve as a museum.
Salzburg Cathedral
First erected in 767 under bishop Virgil, the splendid Baroque-style Salzburg Cathedral underwent several reconstructions, the latest completed in 1959. The Cathedral has a marble facade, numerous artistic treasures, seven bells and five organs. Mozart was baptized here, and also played the organ in the Cathedral. Salzburg Cathedral is set in the Domplatz.
Mozart’s house
Located at Getreidegasse No. 9 is the house where Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was born in January 1756. He and his family lived in an apartment on the third floor of the building, later moving in 1773 to a house now called the Mozart Residence, on the Makartplatz Square. As noted, the Mozart House on Getreidegasse is considered among the must-see historical sites in Salzburg, with a museum that examines Mozart’s life and career in depth.
Mirabell Palace and Gardens
Built in 1606 by prince-archbishop Wolf Dietrich, the beautiful Mirabell Palace is home to the Marble Hall, a fairytale setting for weddings and concerts. The adjacent Baroque-style Gardens feature the Pegasus and Grand fountains, along with a rose garden, a hedge theater and a garden that has several marble sculptures of playful gnomes.
Salzburg Museum
In reality, the Salzburg Museum is made up of ten facilities: the Neue Residenz on Mozartplatz 1; the nearby Salzburg Glockenspiel and the Panorama Museum; the DomQuartier, with biennial exhibits; the Hohensalzburg Fortress Museum; the Cathedral Excavation Museum on Residenzplatz; and the Toy Museum at the end of Getreidegasse in the Bürgerspital. In addition, outside the town is the Folklore Museum on Hellbrunn Hill, along with the Celtic Museum and the Silent Night Museum. The Neue Residenz, the Panorama Museum and the Toy Museum are among the most visited of the facilities.
Dining in Salzburg
It’s time to fill our stomachs in Salzburg, a city rich in history, music, and art!
Cafe/restaurant culture is prevalent in Salzburg, and there are numerous establishments where you can take a break or enjoy a sumptuous meal. Desserts are popular in this city, as they are throughout Austria. Some of Salzburg’s local specialties include the following dishes.
- Salzburger nockerl (a sweet soufflé served as a dessert, a culinary specialty in the Austrian city of Salzburg.)
- Apple strudel
- Pretzel
- Schnitzel
- Goulash
- Tafelspitz (beef served with apples, carrots and radishes)
- Knödel (potato patties)
- Mozartkugel (small, round sugar confections made of pistachio, marzipan and nougat covered with dark chocolate, also known as Mozart bonbons)
Useful information about Salzburg
Staying in Salzburg
Countless tourists visit Salzburg throughout the year and the city’s accommodation options reflect this interest. Altstadt, also known as the “Old Town,” is the top choice for accommodation. Elisabeth-Vorstadt is an alternative to Altstadt; it is located near the city’s modern face and the Old Town area. If you want to get away from the city center and spend more time in less touristed areas, we suggest the Maxglan district.
We also recommend checking out the Turkish Holidays holiday packages to easily organize your flight and accommodations.
How is the public transportation in Salzburg?
In Salzburg, urban transportation is mainly provided by buses. You can purchase 24-hour tickets or a Salzburg Card; the Salzburg Card, also available at the airport, offers free entrance to most tourist attractions and free public transport in the city of Salzburg for three days.
Transportation from Salzburg W. Amadeus Mozart Airport to the city center
Salzburg Airport, the second largest airport in Austria, is approximately 12 kilometers from the city center. Public buses run at regular intervals between Salzburg Airport, the main train station in Salzburg, and the city center, as well as to surrounding towns.
We wish you safe travels!
