Musical connections
One of Salzburg's main claims to fame relates to its role in the Oscar-winning film The Sound of Music, starring Julie Andrews and Christopher Plummer. The city and surrounding area provided a stunning backdrop for the film and large numbers of visitors come to Salzburg with the intention of seeking out as many filming locations as possible, in an attempt to follow in the footsteps of the von Trapp family.
The city is also famous for being the birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, the classical composer whose works include The Marriage of Figaro and Don Giovanni. During your city break in Salzburg, visit the Geburtshaus museum, the house where Mozart was born in January 1756, before crossing the Mozartsteg Bridge to reach Mozartplatz, the square that now bears the composer's name.
Altstadt – The Heart of Salzburg
No city break in Salzburg is complete without exploring the Altstadt, the city’s Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its beautifully preserved Baroque architecture. Stroll through its narrow cobbled streets to discover landmarks like Getreidegasse, Mozart’s birthplace, and the impressive Salzburg Cathedral. The area is also home to charming squares such as Residenzplatz and Kapitelplatz, which buzz with activity throughout the year. Whether you're visiting Salzburg for a short break or a weekend, take time to enjoy the quaint cafes, boutique shops, and traditional Austrian bakeries that make the Altstadt a truly magical experience.
Top attractions
One of the most iconic buildings to visit during a city break in Salzburg in Salzburg is Fortress Hohensalzburg, an 11th-century hill top fort that towers above the city. Take an organised tour of the castle to learn all about the area's rich history. Salzburg Museum, housed within the Neuen Residenz, also provides a fascinating insight into the region's past.
Stroll through the streets or join a walking tour to catch sight of Salzburg's wonderful Baroque architecture, its beautiful churches and major sights including Mirabell Gardens with its 17th-century palace and manicured grounds, and St Peter's Abbey.
If you’re planning a weekend in Salzburg, take the opportunity to escape the city and explore the stunning countryside around it. Perhaps take a cable car to the top of Untersberg mountain to enjoy magnificent views out across the Rositten Valley.
Festivals
Art and culture lie at the heart of life in Salzburg. The annual Salzburg Festival is a major event in the city's calendar, a celebration of music and art that continues for a number of weeks during the summer months of July and August. Operas, plays and concerts are held throughout the city, with international stars and members of the public alike drawn to the event. In total, about 200 shows take place during the festival, which are enjoyed by more than 250,000 people.
You could also time your visit to coincide with one of the other excellent festivals held in Salzburg each year. Mozart Week in January is a celebration of the composer's work, Sommerszene in July is all about contemporary performance art, while Winterfest involves a wide range of events that take place during the festive period.
Culinary delights
No weekend in Salzburg would be complete without indulging in its culinary offerings. The city boasts a variety of traditional Austrian restaurants where you can savor local specialties such as Wiener Schnitzel and Sachertorte. For a unique experience, visit the St. Peter Stiftskulinarium, considered Europe's oldest restaurant, dating back to 803 AD. Here, you can enjoy a meal in a historic setting, making your short break in Salzburg truly memorable.
