Your Ultimate Travel Guide to Salzburg: Top 10 To-Dos 2024 with ALPEN AIR
Salzburg, the picturesque city in the heart of Austria, is a true gem that combines history, culture and breathtaking nature. Famous as the birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and renowned for its magnificent baroque architecture, Salzburg attracts millions of visitors from all over the world every year. But this charming city has much more to offer than just its breathtaking architecture. In this article, we present the Top 10 To Dos in Salzburg and the surrounding area that you should not miss. Whether you’re traveling as a single, couple or family, this list has something for everyone.
- The historic old town
- Mirabell Gardens and Mirabell Palace
- Hellbrunn Palace and the trick fountains
- The traces of “The Sound of Music”
- Salzburg Festival
- Hike up the Untersberg
- Salzburg Christmas market
- Trip to Königssee
- Ice giant world in Werfen
- Sightseeing flight with ALPEN AIR from Augsburg over the Alps
1. The historic old town
Salzburg’s old town has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997 and is considered one of the most beautiful old towns in Europe. A stroll through the narrow streets with their baroque facades, squares and churches is a must. Visit Salzburg Cathedral, Mozart’s birthplace in Getreidegasse and Hohensalzburg Fortress, which towers high above the city. From here you have a breathtaking view of Salzburg and the surrounding Alps. We also highly recommend a visit to Residenzplatz and Kapitelplatz, where you can visit the famous “Domquartier”, which offers a fascinating insight into the history of the city.
2. Mirabell Gardens and Mirabell Palace
The Mirabell Gardens and Mirabell Palace are further highlights of Salzburg. The baroque garden is known for its magnificent flower arrangements, fountains and statues and offers a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city. Stroll through the rose garden, admire the Pegasus Fountain or simply enjoy the relaxed atmosphere. Mirabell Palace regularly hosts classical concerts, which offer an unforgettable experience in the magnificent marble halls. This place is particularly popular with families and photographers who appreciate the symmetrical paths and magnificent grounds.
3. Hellbrunn Palace and the trick fountains
Hellbrunn Palace, a pleasure palace from the early 17th century, is located just a few kilometers south of Salzburg. It is best known for its unique water features, which delight visitors of all ages. In the middle of the extensive park are hidden fountains that suddenly spray water and provide refreshing surprises. A visit here is a refreshing treat, especially on hot summer days. Children love discovering the hidden jets of water and adults enjoy the artistic installations and historical anecdotes that accompany the guided tours.
4. The traces of “The Sound of Music”
The film classic “The Sound of Music” has made Salzburg famous worldwide. Many of the iconic movie scenes were filmed in and around Salzburg, and a guided tour in the footsteps of Maria and the von Trapp children is an absolute must for fans of the movie. Visit places such as the Leopoldskroner Weiher, Leopoldskron Palace and the famous Engelstreppe at Mirabell Palace, where the children sing “Do-Re-Mi”. This tour not only offers movie fans a special treat, but also a deep insight into the picturesque landscape and history of Salzburg.
5. Experience the Salzburg Festival
The Salzburg Festival, which takes place every summer, is one of the most renowned music and theater festivals in the world. This is where the elite of classical music meet to attend performances of operas, concerts and plays in a unique setting. Whether you are an opera lover or simply want to enjoy the special atmosphere, a visit to the Salzburg Festival is an unforgettable experience. The performances take place in the festival district at various locations in the city, including the Grosses Festspielhaus, the Haus für Mozart and the Felsenreitschule.
https://www.salzburgerfestspiele.at/en/
6. Hike up the Untersberg
The Untersberg is an absolute highlight for nature lovers and hikers. At 1,972 meters, Salzburg’s local mountain rises majestically above the city and offers numerous hiking trails with varying degrees of difficulty. From the Untersbergbahn valley station in Grödig / St. Leonhard, you can take the cable car up to the summit in comfort and enjoy the spectacular view of Salzburg and the surrounding Alps. Ambitious hikers also have the option of climbing the summit on foot. Once at the top, an impressive panorama awaits you, reaching as far as Bavaria on a clear day.
https://www.salzburg.info/en/salzburg/green-salzburg/untersberg
7. The Salzburg Christmas market
At Christmas time, Salzburg is transformed into a winter wonderland. The Salzburg Christmas Market on Domplatz and Residenzplatz is one of the oldest and most atmospheric Christmas markets in Europe. Here you can enjoy traditional arts and crafts, regional delicacies and mulled wine. A visit to the Christmas market is a particular highlight for families, as there is also a children’s program and a fairytale world. The market is also ideal for finding authentic Austrian Christmas gifts, such as handmade Christmas tree decorations or gingerbread hearts.
8. Trip to Königssee
The idyllic Königssee lake in the Berchtesgaden National Park is just a short drive from Salzburg. The emerald green lake, framed by steep mountain walls, is a popular destination for nature lovers and those seeking relaxation. You can take a boat trip to the pilgrimage church of St. Bartholomä or explore the surrounding area on well-signposted hiking trails. Königssee is a worthwhile destination at any time of year, whether for a relaxing stroll or a more challenging hike. Particularly impressive is the echo that reverberates on the lake when the boat captains blow their trumpets next to the steep cliffs.
9. The ice giant world in Werfen
The ice giant world in Werfen, around 40 kilometers south of Salzburg, is the largest ice cave in the world and an impressive natural wonder. An excursion here is suitable for adventure-seekers and families alike. The cave can be reached via a well-marked path that leads you to an underground labyrinth of gigantic ice formations. During the guided tour through the giant ice world, you will learn a lot about the formation of the cave and the fascinating phenomena that shape the eternal ice. Warm clothing and sturdy shoes are a must here, as the temperatures in the cave are freezing even in summer.
10. Sightseeing flight with ALPEN AIR from Augsburg over the Alps
An absolute highlight for every visitor to Salzburg is a sightseeing flight with ALPEN AIR over the breathtaking Alps. Take off from Augsburg Airport and experience the beauty of the Alps from a bird’s eye view. This exclusive experience offers you unforgettable views of snow-covered peaks, deep valleys and picturesque mountain villages. The flight is particularly recommended at sunrise or sunset, when the light bathes the mountains in a golden glow. A flight around the Alps is not only an adventure for aviation enthusiasts, but also a unique experience that shows you the Alps in all their splendor.
https://www.alpenair.de/en/alps-xxl/
Salzburg and its surrounding area offer a wealth of activities and sights to suit every taste. From the historic old town to the magnificent castles and spectacular nature experiences – the city is a true paradise for culture lovers, nature lovers and adventurers. Experience Salzburg at its best with our Top 10 To Dos. And to top it all off, we recommend an unforgettable flight around the Alps with ALPEN AIR, the perfect way to round off your trip. Plan your trip to Salzburg now and be enchanted by this wonderful city!
