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Fortress Hohensalzburg: Salzburg's Majestic Landmark

Explore Fortress Hohensalzburg: a majestic medieval castle with panoramic views, rich history, and captivating museums in the heart of Salzburg.

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Dominating the Salzburg skyline, Fortress Hohensalzburg is one of the largest and best-preserved medieval castles in Europe. Built in 1077 by Archbishop Gebhard, it was expanded over the centuries and never conquered. Today, it offers stunning panoramic views and a glimpse into the lives of the prince-archbishops.

A brief summary to Fortress Hohensalzburg

Local tips

  • Purchase tickets online in advance to avoid potential queues, especially during peak season.
  • Consider the Salzburg Card for free admission to the fortress, funicular rides, and access to other attractions.
  • Allow at least half a day to fully explore the fortress and its museums.
  • Check the official website for the most up-to-date opening hours and event schedules.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as there is a fair amount of walking on uneven surfaces.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Salzburg's Old Town, the fortress is a 15-20 minute walk. Start near the Salzburg Cathedral and head south towards Kapitelplatz. From there, follow signs to Festungsgasse, where you can either take the funicular or continue walking uphill. The footpath is steep but offers scenic views. Walking up is free.

  • Public Transport

    From Salzburg Central Station (Salzburg Hbf), take bus line 160 to Rathaus. From there, it's a short walk through the Old Town to Festungsgasse, the starting point for the funicular or the footpath. A single bus fare is approximately €1-2. Alternatively, from Salzburg Hbf, take trolleybus lines 1, 3, 5, 6 or 25 to the city center (Rathaus stop or Ferdinand-Hanusch-Platz stop). From there you can walk through Getreidegasse, via Alter Markt, Residenzplatz, Domplatz and Kapitelplatz to Festungsgasse.

  • Funicular

    The Festungsbahn funicular provides a quick and easy ascent to the fortress. The valley station is located in Festungsgasse 4. The funicular runs every 10 minutes and the ride takes less than a minute. A round trip funicular ticket combined with a basic fortress ticket costs €14.50 for adults. A single ride up or down outside of fortress opening hours costs €3.80 for adults.

  • Taxi

    A taxi from Salzburg Central Station to Fortress Hohensalzburg costs approximately €10-12 and takes about 5 minutes. From the city center, a taxi ride is around €6. Taxis are readily available at taxi ranks or can be ordered by phone or app. Keep in mind that the fortress is not directly accessible by car.

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Discover more about Fortress Hohensalzburg

Perched atop the Festungsberg, Fortress Hohensalzburg is a symbol of Salzburg, visible from afar. Constructed in 1077 by Archbishop Gebhard von Helfenstein, the fortress has evolved over centuries, with significant expansions by Archbishop Leonhard von Keutschach around 1500. Originally built to protect the principality and the archbishops, it has never been taken by foreign troops. The fortress offers a multifaceted experience, blending history, architecture, and stunning vistas. Visitors can explore the Fortress Museum, which showcases historical exhibits related to the prince-archbishops, the Marionette Museum, and the Museum of the Rainer Regiment. The Princes' Chambers, dating back to 1501/1502, feature original furnishings and a simulated night sky. The Armoury houses an interactive exhibition on medieval weaponry. A panorama tour leads to the Reckturm viewing platform, providing arguably the most beautiful view in the city. Throughout the year, the fortress hosts concerts, exhibitions, and medieval reenactments. The Salzburg Fortress Concerts are particularly well-known. The fortress is open year-round and can be reached either on foot or via the Fortress Funicular, operating since 1892.

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