Background

Mozartplatz: A Tribute to Salzburg's Musical Heritage

Experience the heart of Salzburg's Old Town at Mozartplatz, a historic square honoring the city's most famous composer, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, surrounded by cultural landmarks.

4.5

Mozartplatz, nestled in the heart of Salzburg's Old Town, is a vibrant square steeped in history and musical legacy. Dominated by the imposing Mozart Monument, the square serves as a focal point for visitors exploring the city's rich cultural tapestry. Originally known as Michaelsplatz, it was transformed in the early 17th century and later dedicated to Salzburg's most famous son, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. Surrounded by significant buildings like the Salzburg Museum, the Christmas Museum, and the former residence of Mozart's widow, Constanze, Mozartplatz offers a captivating glimpse into Salzburg's past and present, making it a must-see destination for any traveler seeking to immerse themselves in the city's artistic soul. The square hosts various events throughout the year, adding to its lively atmosphere.

A brief summary to Mozartplatz

Local tips

  • Visit the Salzburg Museum in the Neue Residenz on Mozartplatz to delve into the city's rich history and art.
  • Take a guided walking tour that starts at Mozartplatz to discover hidden gems and learn about the square's historical significance.
  • Enjoy a coffee or pastry at Café Glockenspiel on the west side of the square for a relaxing break with a view of the Mozart Monument.
  • Check out the Salzburg Christmas Museum on the west side of the square for a nostalgic journey through the history of Christmas traditions.
  • Look for the copy of the Roman mosaic at the foot of the Mozart Monument, bearing an inscription about happiness and protection from evil.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    Mozartplatz is centrally located in Salzburg's Old Town and easily accessible on foot from most major attractions. From Residenzplatz, simply walk east, and Mozartplatz opens up to the left. From Getreidegasse, head towards the river and turn right; the square will be on your right, marked by the Mozart Monument. The Salzburg Cathedral is a short walk away, just northeast of the square.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving by public transport, the nearest bus stop is Mozartsteg/Rudolfskai. From there, walk south towards the Old Town; Mozartplatz is a short walk away. Many bus lines serve this stop, including lines 3, 5, 6, 9, 25, and others. A single ticket within the Salzburg core zone costs approximately €2.60. Consider purchasing a Salzburg Card for free access to public transport and discounts on attractions.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Salzburg. A short ride from the Salzburg Hauptbahnhof (main train station) to Mozartplatz will cost approximately €10-€15, depending on traffic. Be aware that the Old Town is largely pedestrianized, so the taxi may drop you off at the edge of the zone, requiring a short walk to the square.

  • Driving

    Driving directly to Mozartplatz is not recommended due to the pedestrian zone. The closest parking option is the Altstadt Garage, located a few minutes' walk away. Hourly rates start at approximately €2.60, with a daily maximum of around €24.70. Disabled parking spaces are available at Residenzplatz 9, Toscaninihof 1 and Max-Reinhardt-Platz, the bollards in front of the Festspielhaus and on Mozartplatz can be operated with the Euro key.

Unlock the Best of Mozartplatz

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Mozartplatz

Mozartplatz, a captivating square in the heart of Salzburg's Altstadt (Old Town), stands as a testament to the city's deep connection with its most celebrated composer, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. More than just a picturesque plaza, Mozartplatz is a historical and cultural nexus, offering visitors a glimpse into Salzburg's rich past and vibrant present. Originally named Michaelsplatz, the square's origins trace back to the early 17th century when Prince-Archbishop Wolf Dietrich von Raitenau initiated a redevelopment project that involved demolishing several houses. Initially, a baroque fountain featuring a statue of St. Michael graced the square's center. However, in 1842, the square underwent a transformation with the unveiling of the Mozart Monument, forever linking the plaza to the composer's legacy. The Mozart Monument, crafted by Ludwig Schwanthaler, is the square's centerpiece. Its unveiling was initially planned for 1841, commemorating the 50th anniversary of Mozart's death. However, the discovery of a Roman mosaic during the statue's construction delayed the ceremony. The mosaic, bearing the inscription "hic habitat (felicitas), nihil intret mali" – "Here lives (happiness), let nothing evil enter" – was carefully preserved, and a copy can still be seen at the foot of the statue. King Ludwig I of Bavaria generously donated the marble pedestal upon which the statue stands. Mozartplatz is bordered by several historically significant buildings. On the north side, the Imhofstöckl houses the city's tourist information office, providing visitors with valuable resources for exploring Salzburg. Behind the Imhofstöckl lies a section of the old city wall, dating back to the era of Prince-Archbishop Paris Lodron (1619–1653). Opposite the Imhofstöckl, on the south side of the square, stands the Neue Residenz (New Residence), home to the Salzburg Museum since 2007. The museum showcases the art and cultural history of Salzburg and its surrounding region across approximately 3,000 square meters of exhibition space. On the east side of Mozartplatz, three houses share a uniform facade, a testament to 17th-century architecture. Notably, Mozartplatz 8 was once the residence of Constanze Mozart-Nissen, Mozart's widow. Her presence adds another layer to the square's profound connection to the Mozart family. The west side of the square is home to the Salzburg Christmas Museum and the renowned Café Glockenspiel. The Christmas Museum offers a nostalgic journey through the history of Christmas traditions in Salzburg, while Café Glockenspiel provides a delightful spot to relax and soak in the atmosphere of the square. Just a short distance from Mozartplatz, the poet Georg Trakl was born in 1887, further enriching the area's cultural heritage. The Antretter House at Mozartplatz 4, a beautifully structured building dating back to the 16th and 18th centuries, was once owned by the Antretter family, who maintained close ties with the Mozart family. Today, Mozartplatz remains a vibrant hub of activity. Its central location in the Old Town makes it an ideal starting point for exploring Salzburg's many attractions. Visitors can admire the Mozart Monument, delve into the city's history at the Salzburg Museum, or simply enjoy the ambiance of the square while sipping coffee at a local café. The square also hosts various events throughout the year, adding to its lively atmosphere. From guided tours to musical performances, Mozartplatz is a dynamic space that celebrates Salzburg's cultural heritage. Accessibility is well-considered, with disabled parking spaces available nearby and barrier-free access to many surrounding attractions. The Altstadt Garage Salzburg, located close to Mozartplatz, offers convenient and secure parking, particularly for families with children. Whether you are a music enthusiast, a history buff, or simply a traveler seeking to experience the essence of Salzburg, Mozartplatz is an unmissable destination. Its historical significance, architectural beauty, and vibrant atmosphere make it a true gem in the heart of the city. Mozartplatz is more than just a square; it is a living testament to Salzburg's enduring legacy as a city of music, culture, and history. A visit to Mozartplatz is an immersion into the heart and soul of Salzburg, leaving a lasting impression on all who experience its charm.

Popular Experiences near Mozartplatz

Popular Hotels near Mozartplatz

Select Currency