Fortress Hohensalzburg: A Salzburg Icon
Explore Fortress Hohensalzburg, Salzburg's iconic landmark: a medieval castle with stunning views, rich history, and fascinating museums.
Dominating Salzburg's skyline, Fortress Hohensalzburg is one of the largest and best-preserved medieval castles in Europe. Built in 1077 by Archbishop Gebhard I von Helfenstein, it has never been captured and offers stunning panoramic views of the city and surrounding Alps.
A brief summary to Fortress Hohensalzburg
- Mönchsberg 34, Salzburg, 5020, AT
- +4366284243011
- Visit website
Local tips
- Purchase tickets online in advance to save money and skip the ticket lines, especially during peak season.
- Consider the Salzburg Card for free admission to the fortress, as well as access to public transportation and other attractions.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven surfaces.
- Visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the biggest crowds.
- Check the schedule for the tower brass players' performance on Sundays for a unique cultural experience.
Getting There
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Walking
From Kapitelplatz in the Old Town, follow the signs towards Festung Hohensalzburg. The walk is steep and takes approximately 15-20 minutes. The path begins at Festungsgasse 4, where you can also find the funicular valley station. Be aware that the footpath is not entirely barrier-free and may not be suitable for strollers due to its steepness and steps. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance of the fortress if you choose to walk. Walking up saves you approximately €3 compared to the funicular.
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Public Transport
From Salzburg Central Station, take trolleybus lines 1, 3, 5, 6, or 25 to the Rathaus or Ferdinand-Hanusch-Platz stop in the city center. From there, walk through Getreidegasse, Alter Markt, Residenzplatz, Domplatz, and Kapitelplatz to Festungsgasse. The funicular valley station is located at Festungsgasse 4. A single bus fare costs between €1 and €2. From the airport, take Line 2 to the main train station.
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Funicular
The Festungsbahn funicular provides a quick and easy way to reach the fortress. The valley station is located at Festungsgasse 4 in the heart of the Old Town, just a few minutes' walk from Salzburg Cathedral. The funicular runs every 10 minutes and the ride takes less than a minute. A round trip funicular ticket is included in most fortress tickets. If purchasing separately, a round trip ticket costs €6.00 for adults and €2.30 for children (6-14.99 years). Combination tickets for the funicular and fortress entry are available. Be prepared for potential queues, especially during peak season.
Discover more about Fortress Hohensalzburg
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Margarethenkapelle
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Kapitelpl.
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Kapitelplatz
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Residenzpl. 1
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Unmissable attractions to see
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FestungsBahn
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