Background

Fortress Hohensalzburg: Salzburg's Majestic Landmark

Explore a majestic medieval fortress with panoramic views, museums, and historical insights in the heart of Salzburg, Austria.

4.6

Perched atop the Festungsberg, Fortress Hohensalzburg is a commanding medieval castle and one of the largest, best-preserved fortresses in Europe. Built in 1077, it offers stunning panoramic views of Salzburg and the Alps, along with a glimpse into the lives of its historical inhabitants.

A brief summary to Fortress Hohensalzburg

Local tips

  • Purchase tickets online in advance to avoid long queues, especially during peak season.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as there is a fair amount of walking on uneven surfaces.
  • Visit on a clear day to fully appreciate the stunning panoramic views of Salzburg and the surrounding Alps.
  • Consider the Salzburg Card for free admission and unlimited use of public transport, including the funicular.
  • Check the schedule for concerts or events happening at the fortress during your visit.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    From Salzburg's Old Town, follow signs towards the Festungsbahn funicular. Instead of taking the funicular, continue along Festungsgasse and ascend the stepped path leading directly to the fortress entrance. The walk is steep and takes approximately 20-30 minutes. This option is free.

  • 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, and Domplatz to Festungsgasse. Follow Festungsgasse to the Festungsbahn funicular valley station. A single bus fare costs €1-2. From the funicular's upper station, it's a short, mostly level walk to the fortress entrance.

  • Funicular

    From Salzburg's Old Town, make your way to Festungsgasse 4, where the Festungsbahn funicular valley station is located. Purchase a ticket at the valley station or scan your Salzburg Card for direct entry. The funicular runs every 10 minutes and ascends to the fortress in under a minute. A round trip funicular ride, when purchased separately from fortress admission, costs €6.00 for adults and €2.30 for children (6-14.99 years). However, a basic ticket with funicular access included is €14.50 for adults.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Salzburg. A taxi ride from Salzburg Central Station to the base of Fortress Hohensalzburg takes approximately 5 minutes and costs between €9-€12. From the taxi drop-off point, walk to the Festungsbahn funicular valley station or ascend the footpath to the fortress.

Unlock the Best of Fortress Hohensalzburg

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Fortress Hohensalzburg

Dominating Salzburg's skyline, Fortress Hohensalzburg is a testament to the city's rich history and the power of its prince-archbishops. Constructed in 1077 by Archbishop Gebhard I of Helfenstein, the fortress was initially a simple structure with a wooden wall. Over the centuries, it was expanded and fortified, reaching its current form around 1500 under Archbishop Leonhard von Keutschach. Throughout its history, Fortress Hohensalzburg has never been conquered, a symbol of its strategic design and military significance. Today, visitors can explore its well-preserved ramparts, towers, and chambers, experiencing firsthand the lives of those who lived and worked within its walls. The fortress houses several museums, including the Fortress Museum, the Marionette Museum, and the Museum of the Rainer Regiment, offering insights into courtly life, puppetry, and military history. Highlights include the Princes' Chambers, featuring original furnishings from 1501/1502, and the Panorama Tour, which leads to the Reckturm tower with breathtaking views. The fortress also hosts concerts and cultural events throughout the year, adding to its vibrant atmosphere. Whether arriving on foot or via the funicular, a visit to Hohensalzburg is a must for anyone seeking to immerse themselves in Salzburg's history and enjoy unparalleled views.

Popular Experiences near Fortress Hohensalzburg

Popular Hotels near Fortress Hohensalzburg

Select Currency