Top Things to Do in Salzburg, Austria: The Best Budget-Friendly, Walkable Attractions
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Looking for the best things to do in Salzburg, Austria?
Salzburg offers a wide array of attractions, including iconic baroque architecture such as Mirabell Palace and the historic Altstadt, world-class Mozart museums, the imposing Hohensalzburg Fortress, stunning Sound of Music filming locations, and much more.
But if you’re on a budget, don’t worry—I’ve got you covered.
Having spent 2 days exploring this UNESCO World Heritage city, I discovered which Mozart sites are worth spending a full day at versus making a quick visit.
Whether you’re a budget traveler trying to make the most of free attractions or a first-time visitor feeling overwhelmed by Salzburg’s seemingly endless baroque churches and palaces, this guide is for you.
Quick Guide to Salzburg
⏳ Short on time? My top tips on what to do in Salzburg are:
🏨 Where to Stay:
– Hotel Heffterhof
💸 Save Money: The Salzburg Card for admission to attractions, public transport, discounts, and some skip-the-line access!
📍Day Trips:
– Vienna
– Munich
📲 Must-Have Apps:
– Maps.me for offline maps
– Google Maps for transport info
📺 Movies to Watch Before Visiting:
– The Sound of Music (obviously!)
– Amadeus for Mozart inspiration
🗣️ Language: German is spoken, though English is highly prevalent
Salzburg Travel Planning Tips
Salzburg Card: Worth It?
I’m usually a big fan of tourism passes as, depending on your planned itinerary, they can often save you money compared to buying individual tickets to multiple attractions, especially if you plan to visit several popular sights.
The Salzburg Card provides:
- Free admission to 30+ attractions
- Free public transportation
- Discounts on tours and concerts
- Fast-track entry at select sites
However, many popular attractions in this musical city, such as Mirabell Gardens, St. Peter’s Cemetery, and the historic Altstadt, are completely free, so the card is not necessary depending on what you’d like to visit.
My recommendation: The card pays for itself if you visit 3-4 major paid attractions, especially Hohensalzburg Fortress and Hellbrunn Palace, or if you plan on using public transport.
How to Get Around Salzburg
Salzburg city center is really compact and walkable, so if you stay in the center, you can just walk to almost all the main sights.
Alternatively, if you opt for the Salzburg Card, as I did, you can use public transportation to get around. We primarily used the buses on our Salzburg trip.
Transportation Options:
- Walking: Most attractions are within the compact UNESCO Old Town
- Public Buses: Efficient system covering the entire city and suburbs
- Salzburg Card: Includes all public transport
- Bikes: Bikes are available for rent throughout the city
- Car: Avoid driving in the pedestrian-friendly Old Town; park and walk
🚆 Coming in from Vienna? Check my comparison transport guide for tips!
Where to Stay in Salzburg
If you’re on a limited time, stay in or around Salzburg Old Town to be within walking distance of all the major attractions.
Or, if you’re on a budget, stay on the outskirts. That’s what my mom and I did, and we had a wonderful time at Hotel Heffterhof.
We even had a view of the Alps from our room, and a bus stop was directly across the street, making it simple for us to get into Old Town.
If you’re looking for a luxurious option and are a fan of The Sound of Music, check out Hotel Schloss Leopoldskron, which is where they shot some of the film.
Sound of Music Filming Locations
1. Mirabell Palace and Gardens – “Do-Re-Mi”
Built early in the 17th century by prince-archbishop Wolf Dietrich for his wife, Mirabell Palace and Gardens is one of the most beautiful places in Salzburg.
This is where Maria and the children frolicked while singing “Do-Re-Mi,” featuring the famous Pegasus Fountain, hedge tunnels, and dwarf statues.
These immaculately kept Baroque gardens are renowned for their stunning floral displays, mythological statues, and the Pegasus Fountain.
From here, you also get an epic view of Hohensalzburg Fortress.
⏳ Duration: 30 minutes
🎟️ Tickets: Gardens and Palace are completely FREE, unless an event is going on
2. Residenzplatz – “I Have Confidence”
This grand baroque square is where Maria splashed in the Residenz Fountain while singing “I Have Confidence” on her way to the von Trapp family home.
The impressive cathedral backdrop makes it one of the most photogenic spots in the city.
⏳ Duration: 15 minutes
🎟️ Tickets: FREE!
3. St. Peter’s Cemetery – The Escape Scene
One of Austria’s most beautiful cemeteries, featured in the film’s dramatic escape scene, but it’s not an actual filming location, as a set was built in Los Angeles to recreate it.
Even walking through the cemetery is well worth the visit; however, those with mobility issues should avoid the catacombs as they have steep and slippery stairs.
So much so that a lady slipped behind my mom and rammed right into her. Luckily, no one was seriously hurt, but it wasn’t all that fun either.
⏳ Duration: 20-30 minutes
🎟️ Tickets: FREE! (Catacombs require separate ticket, but are included with Salzburg Card)
🎶 Check my guide for even more Sound of Music filming locations!
Historic Churches and Architecture
4. Salzburg Cathedral (Salzburger Dom)
Salzburg Cathedral was first built in 774 and then it was completely rebuilt several times.
Mozart was baptized here in 1756.
This cathedral sits smack in the center of town, so it’s impossible to miss as the impressive baroque dome and twin towers dominate the city center skyline.
⏳ Duration: 30 minutes
🎟️ Tickets: Cathedral FREE, tours €9, included with Salzburg Card
5. St. Peter’s Abbey
One of the oldest monasteries in the German-speaking world, St. Peter’s Abbey regularly hosts Mozart concerts in its historic halls and once had the great musician play here himself.
The abbey church features stunning Baroque interiors which are well worth a glance.
⏳ Duration: 30 minutes for church, 1.5 hours for concerts
🎟️ Tickets: Church FREE, concert tickets vary
Historic Streets and Squares
6. Getreidegasse
Getreidegasse is the most historic street located in the old town of Salzburg.
Here, you can see some beautiful buildings and facades, as well as shops, restaurants, and bars.
The narrow medieval street features distinctive wrought-iron guild signs and is home to Mozart’s birthplace at No. 9.
⏳ Duration: 45 minutes
🎟️ Tickets: FREE to walk and window shop!
7. Sporer Schnapps
If you’re keen to try schnapps, head to Sporer Schnapps, where you can sample an assortment for just €2 per shot.
But let me tell you—this stuff is strong! Both my mother and I were shocked by the taste.
They also serve liqueurs and brandies if you’re looking for something more palatable.
If you’re not into liquor, you may want to pass on this experience. Or, for a fun and free addition to this things to do in Salzburg list, watch the faces of people like me try to drink it, which, to me, makes it a well-worth-it addition to your Austrian itinerary either way!
⏳ Duration: 15 minutes
🎟️ Tickets: €2 per shot
8. Alter Markt (Old Market Square)
The heart of medieval Salzburg, featuring the smallest house in the city.
There are tons of cafes around to grab a bite from, a cup of coffee, and people-watching.
If you can, go a level up as we did to get a view over the square.
⏳ Duration: 30 minutes
🎟️ Tickets: FREE (coffee and cake extra!)
9. Mozart Square (Mozartplatz)
This charming square features a grand statue of the composer.
Take a moment at Mozartplatz to relax in this popular gathering spot and remember the musical genius.
⏳ Duration: 15 minutes
🎟️ Tickets: FREE!
Scenic Views and Nature
10. Salzach River Promenade
The fast-flowing River Salzach divides the city east to west, with pedestrian paths along both banks offering stunning views of the Old Town’s baroque spires.
Perfect for a chill walk and views if you aren’t already worn out!
⏳ Duration: 30 minutes to 1 hour
🎟️ Tickets: FREE!
11. Salzburg City Cruises
My mother and I opted for the Amadeus Salzburg panoramic speedboat instead of walking along the shores of the Salzach, as it is included with the Salzburg Card.
It is a great way to take in some stunning views and sit for a bit, while resting your feet from all the walking!
⏳ Duration: 40 minutes
🎟️ Tickets: €18, included with the Salzburg Card
Paid Attractions (Worth the Cost!)
12. Hohensalzburg Fortress
Construction began in 1077, and today it’s recognized as one of the largest medieval castles in Europe.
Looming 500m (1640 feet) above the city, this fully preserved fortress offers spectacular 360-degree views, which make it well worth the visit!
Today, visitors can explore different parts of the castle to learn more about its fascinating medieval history and admire some of the more opulent rooms like the Gothic-style Prince’s Chambers.
Here you’ll also find the Armory, Fortress Museum, Rainer Regimental Museum, and Marionette Museum.
⏳ Duration: 2-3 hours
🎟️ Tickets: €14.50 adults, €5.90 children (includes funicular). Included with the Salzburg Card.
13. Hellbrunn Palace and Trick Fountains
This 17th-century pleasure palace features Europe’s most complete baroque trick fountains, designed to surprise and soak unsuspecting guests.
The guided tour reveals the archbishop’s playful sense of humor through hidden water jets that still operate after 400 years.
Don’t worry if you don’t want to get wet, you can stand away from them!
Also, Sound of Music fans can find the famous gazebo here!
⏳ Duration: 2 hours
🎟️ Tickets: €15 adults, €6.50 children. Included with the Salzburg Card.
🚌 Transport: This attraction isn’t in Old Town, but it’s easily accessible by a 10-minute bus ride
14. Salzburg Christmas Museum
This museum is a year-round celebration of Austrian Christmas traditions featuring historic ornaments, nativity scenes, Krampus figures, and holiday customs spanning centuries.
If this weren’t part of the Salzburg Card, I don’t think we would have visited the Salzburg Christmas Museum, especially in May.
However, it was a tiny museum, so it won’t take up too much time.
⏳ Duration: 30 minutes
🎟️ Tickets: €9 adults, €5 children. Included with the Salzburg Card.
More Things to See in Salzburg
The following things to do in Salzburg are attractions or experiences my mother and I opted out of during our Salzburg itinerary, as they weren’t of much interest to us.
But, you may feel differently, so if you’re still wondering what to do in Salzburg after covering the main attractions, here are additional gems to consider:
Free Additions:
15. Nonnberg Abbey, famously where the actual Maria stayed before working for the Von Trapps, and where she was married, plus where they filmed for the movie
16. Salzburg Museum, showcases Salzburg’s art and history, but is closed until spring 2027 due to renovations
17. Müllner Church, who’s construction began in 1439, featuring a distinctive onion dome
18. Salzburg’s salt history exhibits at various locations throughout the city (I really enjoyed the salt mine in Poland, so I’m a bit sad I didn’t take advantage of visiting Salzburg’s!)
19. Franciscan Church (Franziskanerkirche), one of the oldest churches in Salzburg
20. St. Sebastian’s Church and Cemetery, contains the tomb of Paracelsus, the famous physician and alchemist. The Italian Renaissance-style architecture offers a stark contrast to the other Baroque churches in the city
21. Universitätsplatz Market, charming square that hosts daily markets with local produce, flowers, and traditional Austrian goods
22. Kapitelplatz Square, a large baroque square featuring the Horse Pond fountain and providing excellent views of Hohensalzburg Fortress, featured in The Sound of Music
23. Augustiner Bräustübl Monastery Brewery, Salzburg is regarded as the beer capital of Austria, and Augustiner is one of the city’s oldest breweries that still exists today. Serves traditional Austrian beer in a beer garden setting popular with locals. Free entry, beer costs $
24. Humboldt Terrace, a scenic walking trail along the Mönchsberg cliffs, offering spectacular panoramic views of Salzburg
Paid Experiences:
25. Mozart’s Birthplace (Mozart’s Geburtshaus), for almost 30 years, the Mozart family lived on the third floor of 9 Getreidegasse Street. This building is now a museum showcasing Mozart’s beginnings, including where he was born and raised, the violin he played as a child, and the clavichord he used to compose The Magic Flute
26. Mozart’s Residence (Mozart-Wohnhaus), after outgrowing his birthplace, the Mozart family moved to this larger house, where Wolfgang lived until 1780. The museum provides deeper insights into Mozart’s compositional period with interactive exhibits and original instruments
27. Concerts and Festivals, Salzburg’s musical calendar includes year-round Mozart concerts in historic venues like St. Peter’s Abbey or the Residenz. During the Salzburg Festival (July-August), world-class opera and classical performances take place
28. Untersberg Cable Car, in a roomy gondola, journey up for epic Alpine views
29. Mozart Dinner Concert, combines a historical menu with Mozart’s music in a candlelit Baroque Hall
30. Salzburg Marionette Theater, one of the oldest continuing marionette theatres in the world, visit for puppet performances of Mozart operas or the Sound of Music
31. Original Sound of Music Tour, die-hard fans can hop on the iconic Sound of Music Salzburg Tour, or if you’re on a budget, opt for a self-guided one
32. Felsenreitschule Amphitheatre, this dramatic amphitheatre carved into the mountain is where the von Trapp family performs in their final Austrian appearance before their escape. Today you can tour it or visit during the Salzburg Festival performances from July toAugust
Final Thoughts on What to Do in Salzburg, Austria
Salzburg is an incredible city, one of my favorites to visit in Austria!
It has beautiful architecture, rich history, and a mountain backdrop that makes it so unique that you’ll be itching to sing how the hills are alive!
Whether you’re a devoted Mozart fan, a Sound of Music enthusiast, or simply appreciate stunning Baroque architecture set against Alpine backdrops, Salzburg offers unforgettable experiences that won’t break the budget.
With 60% of these things to do in Salzburg being completely free, and the rest mostly covered by the Salzburg Card, this UNESCO World Heritage city proves that the best experiences in travel often cost nothing more than time and curiosity.
FAQs
What to Skip in Salzburg?
The Sound of Music tour can be expensive for those uninterested in the film, so I suggest a self-guided tour instead. The only must-do in Salzburg is Hellbrunn Palace, as the trick fountains were so unique and quirky that you can’t help but have a great time.
How Many Days Do You Need in Salzburg?
You can see Salzburg in a day, but you’ll be rushing from attraction to attraction. Two full days are best to explore the city without rushing. Three days allow you to take everything at a slow pace or add in a day trip to Hallstatt or Berchtesgaden.
Related Salzburg Travel Guides
- Two Days in Salzburg: A Complete Itinerary for First-Timers
- Visit Hohensalzburg Fortress, Salzburg’s 900-Year Old Castle
- Visiting Hellbrunn Palace and its Unique Musical Trick Fountains
- Helpful Guide to “Is the Salzburg Card Worth It?”
- Is Salzburg Worth Visiting? 14 Pros and Cons to Help You Decide
- How Many Days in Salzburg? A Simple Guide for First-timers
- 13 Sound of Music Salzburg Filming Locations + How to Visit
- 32 Things to Do in Salzburg: Top Budget-Friendly Walkable Sites
- Where to Stay in Salzburg Austria: My Favorite Area for First Timers on a Budget
Photo by zhang xiaoyu on Unsplash
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