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Salzburg: A Baroque Jewel

Explore Salzburg: Mozart's birthplace, a UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning Baroque architecture and a rich musical legacy.

Salzburg, Austria, the birthplace of Mozart, is a city famed for its stunning Baroque architecture, its UNESCO-listed Old Town (Altstadt), and the imposing Hohensalzburg Fortress. Nestled beside the Salzach River, with the Alps as a backdrop, Salzburg offers a blend of history, culture, and scenic beauty.

A brief summary to Salzburg

Local tips

  • Explore the Old Town (Altstadt) on foot to best appreciate its intricate architecture and hidden gems.
  • Purchase a Salzburg Card for free access to public transportation and many attractions.
  • Visit the Hohensalzburg Fortress early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the best views.
  • Try local culinary specialties like Salzburger Nockerl or Bosna at a traditional restaurant.
  • Take a stroll along the Salzach River for beautiful views of the city, especially at sunset.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Salzburg's Old Town is pedestrian-friendly. From the Salzburg Hauptbahnhof (main train station), it's a 10-minute walk to Mirabell Gardens, marking the start of the Altstadt. From there, it's another 10-15 minute walk through the old town to the Hohensalzburg Fortress. Be aware that the Old Town has some cobblestone streets.

  • Public Transport

    Salzburg has an extensive network of buses and trolleybuses. From the main train station, numerous bus lines connect to various points in the city. A single ticket within the core zone costs €2.40 if purchased in advance or €3.00 if purchased on board. A 24-hour ticket costs €4.90 in advance or €6.40 on board. Consider purchasing tickets online via the Salzburg Verkehr App. If you are staying in a hotel, you may receive a free Salzburg Guest Mobility Card for free transport.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Salzburg, especially around tourist hotspots and shopping areas. It's easier to call a taxi (+43 662 8111) or use a taxi app than to hail one. A short taxi ride around the city center costs approximately €9-10. The base fare is €3.90, plus €1.70 per kilometer after the first kilometer. Keep in mind that prices may increase at night or during holidays.

  • Driving

    Driving within Salzburg's Old Town is restricted; it's primarily a pedestrian zone. Parking in the city center is limited and fee-based. Short-term parking is available for a maximum of three hours at a rate of €1.50 per hour. Consider parking at a Park & Ride location on the outskirts of the city and taking public transportation. A P&R combo ticket, valid for up to 5 people, costs €15 and includes 24 hours of public transport. Some garages in the city center include Mönchsberggarage (€3.30 per hour) and Linzergasse (€3.00 per hour). Note: From the Walserberg border crossing to the Salzburg-Nord exit on the A1, no highway vignette is required.

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Discover more about Salzburg

Salzburg, a city steeped in history and culture, invites visitors to explore its captivating blend of architectural grandeur and musical heritage. Founded as an episcopal see in 696 and later becoming a seat of the archbishop in 798, Salzburg's fortunes were built on salt extraction, trade, and gold mining. The city's historic center, the Altstadt, is a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its Baroque architecture, one of the best-preserved city centers north of the Alps. Wander through spacious squares and narrow streets, discovering churches, monasteries, castles, and palaces nestled between the Mönchsberg and the Salzach River. Dominating the skyline is the Hohensalzburg Fortress, one of Europe's largest medieval fortresses, dating back to the 11th century. Explore its museums, restaurants, and art galleries while enjoying panoramic views of the city. Salzburg is synonymous with Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, its most famous son. Visit Mozart's birthplace in the Getreidegasse, a bustling shopping street. The city is also known for the Sound of Music, with many tours showcasing filming locations. Salzburg's rich cultural calendar includes the internationally renowned Salzburg Festival, featuring opera, drama, and concerts. Explore other attractions such as the Mirabell Palace and Gardens, Salzburg Cathedral, and St. Peter's Abbey, the place where Salzburg was founded in 696.

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