Discover the Historic Old City Hall of Salzburg
Explore the Old City Hall in Salzburg, a historic landmark blending rich heritage with vibrant culture and stunning architecture.
A brief summary to Old City Hall
- Kranzlmarkt 1, Salzburg, 5020, AT
- +43662889870
- Visit website
- Monday 8 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-5 pm
- Thursday 8 am-5 pm
- Friday 8 am-1:30 pm
Nestled in the heart of Salzburg, the Old City Hall stands as a testament to the city's storied past and vibrant culture. This architectural gem, characterized by its ornate façade and historical significance, draws visitors from around the world. Originally constructed in the 15th century, the City Hall has served various functions throughout its existence, including a venue for important civic events and a center for local governance. Today, it operates not only as a municipal building but also as a cultural hub, hosting exhibitions and events that showcase the rich artistic heritage of Salzburg. As you approach the Old City Hall, take a moment to admire its stunning exterior, which features intricate details and a charming clock tower that adds to the picturesque skyline. Inside, visitors can explore various displays that recount the history of Salzburg, offering insights into the city's development and its role in shaping Austrian culture. The building's central location makes it an ideal starting point for exploring the surrounding Old Town, which is filled with quaint cafes, shops, and other historical sites. The surrounding area is equally enchanting, with cobblestone streets leading to other notable landmarks, including the famous Salzburg Cathedral and the Hohensalzburg Fortress. After your visit, consider enjoying a leisurely stroll along the nearby Salzach River, where you can take in the beauty of the city from a different perspective. The Old City Hall is not just a place to visit; it's an integral part of the Salzburg experience, offering a glimpse into the city's past while remaining a vibrant part of its present.
Local tips
- Visit during weekdays to enjoy a quieter experience, as weekends can be busier with local events.
- Check the local events calendar; the City Hall often hosts exhibitions and cultural events worth attending.
- Combine your visit with a tour of the nearby attractions, such as the Salzburg Cathedral and Mirabell Palace, for a full day of exploration.
- Take advantage of the guided tours available for deeper insights into the history and architecture of the building.
Getting There
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Walking
If you are in the Mirabell Palace area, start by walking towards the Mirabell Gardens and exit through the main entrance. Head straight across the bridge (Makartsteg) over the Salzach River. Once you cross the bridge, you will find yourself on the Getreidegasse street. Continue straight until you reach the intersection with the Kaigasse street. Turn right onto Kaigasse and follow it until you reach the next intersection. From there, turn left onto the Franz-Josef-Straße. Continue walking straight, and you will see Old City Hall (Altes Rathaus) located at Kranzlmarkt 1, 5020 Salzburg. Look for the distinctive building with a clock tower.
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Public Transport
If you are at the Salzburg main train station (Hauptbahnhof), take bus line 3 or 5 towards 'Puch/Urstein' or 'Salzburg Stadtwerke'. Get off at the 'Müllner Hauptstraße' stop. From there, walk towards the river and cross the bridge (Müllner Steg) to get to the Old Town. Once across, follow the signs leading you to the historic center. Walk straight and turn left on the Getreidegasse. Continue until you reach the intersection with the Kaigasse street and turn right. Finally, turn left onto Franz-Josef-Straße, and you will see Old City Hall at Kranzlmarkt 1.
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Biking
If you prefer biking, you can rent a bike from one of the rental stations in the city. Starting from the Mirabell Palace area, follow the same route as the walking guidance, but this time you can take the bike lanes along the Salzach River. After crossing the Makartsteg bridge, continue on the bike path leading into the Old Town. Once you reach Getreidegasse, park your bike at any designated bike parking area and walk to Old City Hall, which is a short distance away on Kranzlmarkt.