Itineraries for Your Trip to Salzburg
3 Days in Salzburg for First Timers
I’ve visited Salzburg several times and always leave convinced it’s one of Europe’s most romantic cities. Whenever I’m there, I discover something new—a hidden church or under-the-radar restaurant that increases its appeal. Mostly though, I do the Salzburg essentials, from window-shopping along the Getreidegasse and drinking at the city’s beer gardens to grappling with the history of Salzburg Cathedral—the place where Mozart was baptized.
And while I can take or leave its Sound of Music heritage—the movie was shot here in 1964—it’s still a thrill to visit film locations such as the “Do-Re-Mi” steps of the Mirabell Gardens. If you’re new to Salzburg, here’s my recommended 3-day itinerary for capturing the essence of the city.
Salzburg is prone to year-round spells of schnürlregen—fine drizzle—so pack an umbrella.
If you have time for just one thing, make it a meander around Salzburg’s Old Town, known as Altstadt.
Devote today to the Old Town, an ensemble of baroque streets and plazas centered on the fountained Residenzplatz, home to Salzburg Cathedral. Head inside to see the altar where the city’s favorite son, Mozart, was baptized in 1756, and absorb the potent atmosphere—go on a Sunday morning to hear it filled with choral song.
After a tavern lunch, tour the Residenz Palace’s interiors before crossing into neighboring Mozartplatz, home to a Mozart statue and the Salzburg Museum. Next, wander the Judengasse to Getreidegasse, Salzburg’s main shopping street, where Mozart’s Birthplace museum, boutiques, and taverns beckon.
Salzburg’s Old Town is a gift that keeps on giving, so return to visit St. Peter’s Abbey and its church, cemetery, and catacombs. Nearby is the lift to the Hohensalzburg, Salzburg’s grim-looking fortress, which commands rooftop panoramas.
This afternoon, cross the city’s Salzach River via the Mozartsteg footbridge to Steingasse, one of Salzburg’s oldest lanes. Close to its northern end are the fountain-dotted Mirabell Gardens of Sound of Music and “Do-Re-Mi” fame. Then, stroll down Mirabellplatz to the Mozart Residence museum, set in another of the composer’s homes. Tonight, celebrate Salzburg’s musicality at a Mozart dinner-concert in a mansion or restaurant.
Succumb to Salzburg’s Sound of Music connection on a tour of its best-known locations. From bus and bike tours covering landmarks like the lakeside Schloss Leopoldskron to combos that add a second, often unconnected, experience such as a visit to local salt mines, there’s something for all.
Alternatively, slow the pace today. Savor Salzburg’s dense Sacher-Torte chocolate cake at Café Sacher before walking the neighboring Makartsteg bridge—its railings bedecked with padlocks left by loved-up couples. After lunch at a beer garden, admire views of Salzburg’s domes, spires, and mountainous backdrop on a cruise along the Salzach.
