Makartsteg, Salzburg Travel Guide

Experience Salzburg's romantic heart at the Makartsteg, the 'Lovelock Bridge' offering stunning city views and a symbol of enduring love.

The Makartsteg is a pedestrian bridge in Salzburg's city center, known as the 'Lovelock Bridge' for the thousands of padlocks attached by couples. Spanning the Salzach River, it offers picturesque views of the city's skyline and the Hohensalzburg Fortress.

A brief summary to Makartsteg

Salzburg, 5020, AT

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Makartsteg.

Bring a lock to attach to the bridge as a symbol of your love or visit to Salzburg.
Take your time to enjoy the panoramic views of the Hohensalzburg Fortress and the Salzach River.
Visit during sunset for a particularly magical experience as the city is bathed in golden light.

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Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

Mirabell Palace

Salzburg Cathedral

Fortress Hohensalzburg

Mozartplatz

DomQuartier Salzburg

Explore Makartsteg on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Makartsteg, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

From Salzburg Cathedral, head south towards Residenzplatz, then turn left onto Hofstallgasse. Continue to the river and cross the Makartsteg. The walk is approximately 15 minutes.
Public Transport

From Salzburg Hauptbahnhof (main train station), take bus line 3 or 5 towards 'Schallmoos'. Get off at the 'Makartplatz' stop. Walk towards the Salzach River; the Makartsteg will be directly in front of you. A single bus fare is approximately €2.50.

Discover more about Makartsteg

The Makartsteg, gracefully arching over the Salzach River, is more than just a crossing; it's a symbol of love and a vibrant part of Salzburg's cityscape. Originally named after the 19th-century Salzburg painter Hans Makart, the bridge has become famous as the 'Lovelock Bridge'. Thousands of padlocks, tokens of affection, are clipped to its railings by couples from around the world, their initials inscribed as a testament to enduring love.The current bridge, opened in 2001, is actually the third iteration of the Makartsteg. The first, an Art Nouveau bridge, was built in 1905. By 1967, it was replaced with a second bridge, which locals remember fondly as the 'swinging bridge' due to its noticeable movement. However, this bridge was eventually demolished in 2000 and replaced.Walking across the Makartsteg offers stunning panoramic views. The imposing Hohensalzburg Fortress dominates the horizon, while the Salzach River winds its way through the city. The bridge connects the old and new parts of Salzburg, inviting locals and tourists alike to enjoy leisurely strolls and capture memorable photos.