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Fortress Hohensalzburg: Salzburg's Majestic Landmark

Explore a 900-year-old fortress with stunning views, museums, and historical insights into Salzburg's rich past. A must-see landmark!

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Perched atop the Festungsberg hill, Fortress Hohensalzburg is a magnificent medieval castle and a symbol of Salzburg, Austria. Built in 1077, it's one of the largest and best-preserved fortresses in Central Europe, offering stunning panoramic views and a glimpse into the region's rich history.

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 lot of walking on uneven surfaces.
  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
  • Check the schedule for concerts or events happening at the fortress during your visit.
  • Allow at least half a day to fully explore the fortress and its museums.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Salzburg Cathedral in the Old Town, head south towards Kapitelplatz. Follow the signs to Festung Hohensalzburg, which will lead you to Festungsgasse. From there, you can either walk up the steep path (approximately 20-30 minutes) or take the Festungsbahn funicular. Walking is free, but the path is steep and may not be suitable for everyone.

  • Public Transport

    From Salzburg Central Station (Salzburg Hbf), take bus line 160 to Rathaus. From the Rathaus bus stop, walk through Getreidegasse, Alter Markt, Residenzplatz, Domplatz and Kapitelplatz to Festungsgasse (approximately 5 minutes). From there, you can take the Festungsbahn funicular up to the fortress. A single bus fare is approximately €1-€3. The Festungsbahn funicular is not included in the Guest Mobility Ticket.

  • Funicular

    The Festungsbahn funicular is located at Festungsgasse 4 in the heart of the old town. The funicular runs every 10 minutes and takes approximately 1 minute to reach the top. A round trip funicular ticket combined with a basic fortress ticket costs €14.50 for adults and €5.90 for children (6-14 years). A single ride up or down outside of fortress opening hours costs €3.80 for adults.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Salzburg. A taxi ride from Salzburg Central Station to Fortress Hohensalzburg costs approximately €9-€12 and takes about 5 minutes. A taxi from the city center to the funicular station will cost around €6. Note that the Old Town is largely a pedestrian zone, so you'll likely be dropped off near the funicular station or the start of the walking path.

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Discover more about Fortress Hohensalzburg

Dominating the skyline of Salzburg, Fortress Hohensalzburg is a testament to the power and history of the region. Constructed in 1077 by Archbishop Gebhard von Helfenstein, the fortress was initially a simple structure designed to protect the principality. Over the centuries, it underwent significant expansions, particularly under Archbishop Leonhard von Keutschach around 1500, transforming it into the imposing stronghold seen today. Throughout its history, Fortress Hohensalzburg has never been conquered, a symbol of its strategic design and military significance. It served not only as a defensive structure but also as a residence for the Prince-Archbishops and a symbol of their authority. Today, the fortress attracts over a million visitors annually, drawn to its rich history, stunning architecture, and panoramic views. Visitors can explore various museums within the fortress, including the Fortress Museum, which showcases historical artifacts and exhibits related to the lives of the Prince-Archbishops. The Marionette Museum displays intricate puppets from the Salzburg Marionette Theatre, while the Rainer Regiment Museum focuses on the history of the local infantry regiment. The Princes' Chambers, dating back to 1501/1502, offer a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the past rulers, featuring original furnishings and a simulated night sky. The fortress also hosts concerts and other cultural events throughout the year, adding to its appeal.

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