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• Top 10 Things To Do
• Old Town Walking Tour
• Sound of Music Movie Tour
• Mozart Walking Tour
• Best Viewpoints In Salzburg
• More Sights
• Best Day Trips
• Helpful Visitor Tips
• Best Places To Stay
• Suggested Itineraries

Free Salzburg Walking Tour:

Walking Tour Location :  Old Town Salzburg ( Altstadt ) Cost :  Free, Self-Guided ( Museum costs listed below ) Style :  Do-It-Yourself Walking Tour ( Self Guided )  Start :  Mirabell Palace Gardens End :  Mönchsberg Winkler Terrace Walking Distance :  3 Miles ( +0.3 inside Salzburg Castle,  +0.75 to follow Mönchsberg to Augustiner Beer Hall; +0.50 roundtrip for Nonnberg Abbey ) Time :  2 Hours For Walk ( with attractions 5-6 hours ) Fun Scale :  10 out of 10

Salzburg Walking Tour Overview:

Our free Salzburg walking tour focuses on beautiful Old Town ( Altstadt ), which is well known as the home of Mozart and the setting for the hit movie The Sound of Music.  From its Alpine surroundings to its robust history, and rich architecture, it is no wonder that so many visitors flock to Salzburg’s Old Town each year.  The city center is very compact, and you will be able to breeze through the main sights thanks to our free Salzburg walking tour map.

We like to start this Salzburg walking tour early in the morning, sometimes even right dawn when the Mirabell Palace Gardens are opening.  Starting early in the day is a great way to avoid feeling rushed and will give you plenty of extra time to explore the walking tour sights, shop on Getreidegasse, or to just stop and relax.  We hope you enjoy our free Salzburg walking tour!

Brief History Of Old Town Salzburg:

The core of Old Town Salzburg’s history started as a Celtic settlement which the Romans developed into a formal town of Luvaum ( controlled from 15BC-488AD ) complete with a large forum.  Luvaum ( pronounced U-Va-Voom ) sat right at the intersection of two trades routes, and because of an abundance of nearby white gold ( salt ), the town was gradually renamed Salzburg ( meaning Salt Fortress ) during post-Roman redevelopment.  Our free Salzburg walking tour will cover the in-depth history of the town.

Throughout its almost 500 years of independent rule by Prince-Archbishops ( 1213–1803 ), medieval Salzburg grew quite wealthy and full of elegant Baroque architecture. The city grew especially powerful in the 1500s which led to a lot of Italianate redevelopment in Old Town.  A vibrant local culture also sprung up in Salzburg, and as the home of the famous composer, it became known as the city of Mozart.  Salzburg’s city center was lucky enough to retain its beautiful by avoiding The 30 Years War and by suffering relatively minor damage during WW2.  Because Salzburg’s Old Town has kept much of its original charm, the hills are very much still alive with The Sound of Music.

1. Sacher Cafe :

About Sacher Cafe :  The Sacher Café is known for having the best slice of chocolate cake you can find anywhere.  Their  world-famous cake , known as the Original Sacher-Torte, was the creation of Austrian chef Franz Sacher who was asked to make a dessert for a  Royal party in 1832  while only 16 years old.  Word of the Sacher’s amazing cake spread and he quickly became a household name.  Forever known as the family of rich cake, Sacher’s son opened the Sacher Hotel and Café in Vienna in 1876 and spared no expense decorating every elegant detail.

With over a century of success, the Sacher business expanded to Salzburg in 1988 with their  riverfront location  and has become a local staple ever since.  The fancy sit down area is wonderful, but they also have outdoor umbrella tables facing the river and a takeout shop where you can even have desserts shipped back home.  They actually have a wide range of food and can be a good breakfast option.  If you are confused and which coffee goes best with the cake, the traditional drink in Vienna is hot black coffee with foamed milk and whipped cream.  If Sacher is too busy for some reason, you can also great a great bite to eat next door at the Cafe Bazar.  Coffeehouse culture is an essential part of Austrian culture and stopping at one while on this free Salzburg walking tour is a must.

Hours :  Daily 7:30am-11pm.   Website :   Here .

2. “ Love Lock ” Footbridge ( Makartsteg ):

About The Love Lock Bridge :  While other tourist destinations around Europe like Paris have crackdown down and banned love locks, the romantic city of Salzburg has embraced it.  Every day the long pedestrian & bike-only Makart Footbridge ( Makartsteg ) is lined with tourists leaving paddle locks in hope for good luck .  Some wish for lasting romance with the person they love while others memorialize someone they have lost, but all do it in the hopes of returning to Salzburg someday.  Many of the locks have custom messages or initials written on them and once locked you throw away the key to make your wish come true.

The first bridge here was completed in 1905 and named after  19th-Century painter Hans Makart .  It had to be rebuilt in 1967 following damage in WW2, but the bridge would sway so much with the ever increasing foot traffic that it had to be re-designed for its grand opening in 2000.  While admiring the love locks, or leaving one yourself, make sure to take in the beautiful panoramic views of Old Town.  Many of the interesting things you see from the Love Lock Bridge we will see later on this free Salzburg walking tour.  You can also see the boat docks on the Southern bank of the bridge where Salzburg’s river cruises leave from.

3. Mozart’s Residence ( Wohnhaus ):

About Mozart’s Residence :  Welcome to the house that Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart lived in with his family from age 17 to 25.  We will cover the more popular home where Mozart was born later in this free Salzburg walking tour, but we love this building which is often overlooked by tourists.  After returning from a European music tour in 1773, the Mozart family realized they had  outgrown their original Salzburg home  and needed to upgrade.  Mozart’s dad Leopold decided to move the growing family to the sizeable Dance Master House ( Tanzmeisterhaus ) building you see before you.  They rented half of the building, complete with 8 spacious rooms, which later became known as the Mozart Residence ( Wohnhaus ) .

Amadeus produced many famous works in their apartments in Dance Master House ( Tanzmeisterhaus ), and the family thrived in their new social environment.  After 8 years in the Wohnhaus, Amadeus was ultimately driven from Salzburg in 1781 after an argument with the Archbishop and moved to Vienna.  Mozart had long felt he was under the thumb of the Archbishop and wanted more personal and creative freedom outside of Salzburg, although his father was upset by the move.  Two years later, Mozart’s beloved sister Nannerl moved to nearby Saint Gilgen Austria after marrying the city’s administrator, but oddly left her newborn baby here at the Wohnhaus with her dad Leopold.  After Leopold died in 1787, the home changed hands many times over the years and was later heavily damaged by WWII bombings.

Decades after the WWII, with Salzburg’s tourism on the upswing, the Mozarts’ Residence was faithfully reconstructed and opened to the public as a museum in 1996.  Exhibits include original documents and portraits showing the history of the Wohnhaus building, Mozart’s compositions during his Salzburg years, and of the large social gatherings of the family.  Special attractions include Mozart’s  original fortepiano  and the famous family portrait in the  Dance-Master’s Salon Room .  Separate areas in the museum are dedicated to topics such as the women in Mozart’s life, especially his sister Nannerl, and even sports shooting ( Bölzlschießen ) which was a popular pastime among the family, as well as info on the family’s extensive European travels.

Make note of the white and yellow house ( Makartplatz 1 ) on your right as you approach the Mozart Residence from the river.  Local physicist Christian Doppler was born in 1803, who later went on to pioneer the “Doppler effect” which led to modern radar.

Visiting Hours :  Daily 9am-5:30pm; in July & August 8:30am-7pm; last entry an hour before close.   Cost :  Adults are 11€, or 18€ for a ticket that also includes Mozart’s Birth Place.  Children are only 3.50€, and a family ticket is 23€.   Website :   Here .

Featured On : Self-Guided Mozart Tour

4. Mirabell Palace Gardens :

About Mirabell Palace Gardens :  The Mirabell Palace Gardens ( laid out in 1715-30 ) is one of the most playful areas of Salzburg and offers some of the best views of Old Town.  The name Mirabell literally means beautiful view, so you know you’re in for a treat.  The palace grounds are very famous for being laced with scenes from the hit movie The Sound of Music – especially from the song ‘ Do Re Mo ’.

A visit to the Mirabell Gardens begins at the Southern entrance where two large pairs of Greek fencing statutes can be found leaping toward each other with their triumphant fists in the air.  The figures were inspired by the ancient Borghese gladiator statues are among many carved pieces of art in the park.  As you walk through the grounds, you’ll encounter several fountains, elegant statues, and plenty of colorful flowers.  Make sure to turn around and check out the amazing views of  Hohensalzburg Fortress  towering over Old Town Salzburg.  We’ll visit the fortress later on this free Salzburg walking tour.

You’ll find one of the most iconic spots in the Mirabell Gardens, the  Pegasus Statue Fountain , sitting in the Northwest corner of the grounds.  This horse statue was moved here in 1913 after previously sitting in front of the Mozart Residence in Hannibalplatz ( now Makartplatz ).  In the movie The Sound of Music, the Von Trapp children dance around this Pegasus Fountain ( added in 1913 ) while singing Do Re Mi and using the nearby terrace steps as a  musical scale .  After inspecting their unicorn guards, climb the terrace steps just like Maria did in the movie for an epic view of Salzburg.

Make sure to also follow the other set of steps near the Pegasus Fountain guarded by lions ( Westside opposite the palace ) across a small footbridge to the  Dwarf Gnome Park ( Zwergerlgarten ) .  Commissioned in 1715, the statues were meant to caricatures making fun of Salzburg’s common people who weren’t even allowed in the park ( became public in 1854) .  These statues helped to upper class to feel big while also creating an ugly balance to the large triumphant statues in the center of the park.

15 of the original 28 gnome statues in the park, and they are all said to have been modeled after real royal court dwarfs.  All of the dwarfs are carved out of local marble ( actually chalky limestone ) from Untersberg Mountain whose small ice cave is fabled to hold the resting spirit of Charlemagne The Great.  Each sculpture is fun and unique, but the dwarf with the glasses on was the one all the Von Trapp kids patted on the head during The Sound of Music movie.  Near the Dwarf Garden is a long pergola vine tunnel and hedge maze  which was also featured in the film.  To learn more about the nearby movie sights see our  Sound Of Music Movie Tour .

Getting Here :  You can easily walk from the main city center or take the bus, pretty much every bus line will have a Mirabell stop.   Cost :  The Gardens & Palace are free.   Garden Hours :  Main gardens open all year from Dawn to Dusk; the Hedge Maze and Dwarf Garden close each Winter.    Photos :  ( Pegasus Fountain  |  Entrance  |  Garden View  |  Pergola  |  SOM Gnome ).

Featured On : Sound of Music Movie Tour

5. Mirabell Palace :

About Mirabell Palace :  Overshadowed by the sprawling gardens, the Mirabell Palace itself was built in 1606 by Archbishop Wolf Dietrich Raitenau  for his mistress Salome Alt  whom he had 12 children with.  Originally called Altenau Palace in her honor, the mansion was outside of the original city walls at the time and was considered a country escape for the not-so-secret couple.  The Archbishop was expelled from office in 1612 his replacement tried to erase his memory by renaming the palace Mirabell  after its beautiful views  of Old Town.  It is one of the top five viewpoints on our free Salzburg walking tour map.

If you go inside Mirabell Palace, make sure to check out the 3-level staircase  adorned with angel statues , in addition to the historic Marble Ball Room.  In the Marble Ball Room, which is now used for weddings,  Mozart performed piano concerts as a child.  During Salzburg’s short modern stint as part of Bavaria ( 1810-15, was also Bavaria in the 700s ), Prince Otto was born in Mirabell Palace in 1815 and later went on to become the King of Greece.  The Palace has been owned by the city since 1866 and is used as offices including the Mayor of Salzburg.

Palace Angel Staircase Hours :  Daily 8am-6pm.   Palace Marble Hall Hours :  Monday, Wednesday, Thursday 8am-4pm; Tuesday & Friday 1-4pm.   Photos :  ( Front of Palace  |  Palace Interior – Staircase Angels ).

6. Saint Sebastian Church & Cemetery :

About The Cemetery :  The Saint Sebastian Cemetery ( Sebastianskirche Friedhof ) is home to the graves of  Mozart’s wife Constanze  and his father, Leopold.  While the family graves are small, it is easy to find them near the giant Mausoleum.  We love the outdoor corridors lined with statues and headstones.  The entrance to Saint Sebastian Church ( built in 1505 ) is a favorite among photographers as it has a very photogenic group of playful angel statues on a gate added in 1752.  The church was also the parish that the Mozart family attended for most of Wolfgang’s time in Salzburg.

If you aren’t into Mozart or are short on time feel free to skip the cemetery and go right to the next stop, but if you’re a history or classical music lover it’s only a block or so out of your way to get here.  Visitors often say that this cemetery is one of the most peaceful places on our free Salzburg walking tour.

Visiting Hours :  Daily 9am-4pm; Summer stays open until 6:30pm.   Photos :  ( Grave of Mozart’s Wife & Father  |  Mausoleum  |  Church Interior  |  Church Exterior  |  Angels ).   Church Website :   Here .

7. Capuchin Monastery ( Kapuzinerkloster ):

About Kapuzinerberg Monastery :  Isolated on the Northside of the Salzach River, the Capuchin Hill ( Kapuzinerberg ) is the  highest point in Salzburg  and has some very rewarding views of Old Town.  In 1594 the Prince-Archbishop of Salzburg established a monastery here for devoted Capuchin Order of Franciscan Monks inside the remains of the former Trumpeter Castle ( Trompeterschlössel ) .  The original building dates back to the 1200s ( Fortified in 1405 ) to protect what was the town’s only bridge below and has almost eye-level views of the mighty Salzburg High Fortress perched above Old Town.

A mild, winding stroll ( or steep steps ) will bring you up to the Capuchin Monastery ( Kapuzinerkloster ), located 1/4 of the way up the 2081 foot tall Kapuzinerberg Hill.  During your hike up you’ll pass by a lot of interesting parts of the Medieval city wall and even scenes from the Passion of Christ in a small chapel built into the wall.  During normal daytime hours, you are free to check out the monastery and learn more about the Monks’ way of life.  As you can imagine being up so high, the  stunning views of Old Town  and the colorful buildings lining the Salzach River make it worth the short hike up.  Sadly most tourists don’t go through the effort to get up the Hill and miss out and an unbelievable experience which is one of the best on our free Salzburg walking tour.  In addition to the great views, and peaceful brown cloaked monks, you’ll love the decorative Gothic oak door at the monastery, which is a relic old Salzburg Cathedral after it was rebuilt in the early-1600s.

The monastery is a good jump-off point if you are hiking further up the hill ( 0.8 miles ) to Saint Francis Fortress ( Franziskischlössl ) .  In the 1600s, Franziskischlössl was built as a watchtower for the city wall and is now a restaurant.  On your wooded hike to the top of the Kapuzinerberg Hill, you will cross multiple parts of the old Medieval city wall and hidden city viewpoints.  The walls were re-enforced for protection following The 30 Years War which Salzburg managed to stay out of by basically paying their way out of the conflict.  If you hike even closer to the top of the hill they have discovered two settlements from the Neolithic Period that date back to around 1,000 BC.  These settlements are far older than even the Celtic findings and the Roman village of Luvaum ( 15BC-488 AD ) which once covered Old Town Salzburg below.

Terrace Hours :  Daily from Dawn-Dusk.   Monastery Hours :  Monday-Saturday 6am-6pm;  Sunday 8am-6 pm; Closed during Mass.   Photos :  ( Monastery on Hillside  |  View From Monastery  |  Wall Carving ).   Monastery Website :   Here .

Featured On : Best Viewpoints In Salzburg

8. Stone Alley ( Steingasse ):

About Steingasse :  Although it is a block off the water today, the Salzach River once butted up again the cobbled Stone Alley ( Steingasse ) until its flow was redirected in 1862-66.  From Roman times through the Middle Ages, this created a natural fortification  for the narrow roadway wedged between the river and the cliff of Kapuzinerberg Hill.  The protection was vital as Steingasse was the main road into Salzburg from the South including the salt mines in Hallein.  This route continued through Werfen and over the Alps onto Italy which helped Salzburg ( Salt Castle ) become very a dominant trading center.  Wagons full of salt would pour into Salzburg following the river along the regulated Stone Alley before turning into Old Town along the Roman Bridge.  This also made it easy to charge tolls along the way.

As you stroll down the cobblestone lane, it almost feels like you are walking inside of a city wall.  Our favorite feature of the Steingasse is the fortified  Inner Stone Gate ( Innere Steintor ) which dates to 1280 ( rebuilt in 1634 ) and had a drawbridge all the way until 1900.  No wider than an alleyway, through Medieval times the street was home to many of Salzburg’s craftsmen whos trade required water access like potters, dyers, and tanners.

The most notable people to live on the cobblestone Steingasse was the Joseph Mohr  ( #31 ) who wrote the lyrics to the timeless holiday song  ‘Silent Night’  which premiered on Christmas Eve in 1818.  You’ll see a plaque near the door in Mohr’s honor which is important for a city that prides itself on its Christmas traditions.  The marker for Mohr’s home had been incorrectly placed at house #9 in 1968 due to an error in the 1794 Census, but was later moved to the correct house #31 in 2017.

Across the street from Mohr’s home, you’ll notice a large chunk of stone is missing from the corner of another building.  Local folklore says that this gash happened when a drunken American soldier  tried to drive his tank  down the narrow Steingasse on his way a brothel in WWII and got stuck.  The historic House of Pleasure Brothel ( Maison de Plaisir, #24 ) dates back to 1513 ( same name since 1794 ) and is still open today.  There is no doorknob, just a buzzer, a peephole, plus an eerie green light at night.

The Violin Maker’s House ( Geigenmacher, #25 ) across the street from the brothel was once a shop where Andreas Ferdinand Mayr made Mozart’s childhood violin in 1746, six years before the musician was even born.  This violin can be seen on display at Mozart’s birth house later on this free Salzburg walking tour.

As you wander through the pedestrian street, you’ll come across a lot of unusual doorways that are fun to photograph.  Some of the doors have Medieval armor-like embellishments, a few have a door within a door, and others like house #2 have a charming coat of aged blue paint.

You’ll also notice that many entries will also have chalk markings on them saying  20+C+M+B+18 .  These markings are a Catholic tradition usually put above one’s door to bless visitors on the 12th night of Christmas, also known as the Feast of the Epiphany.  In Salzburg, they take this spirit to a new level and use the chalk marks to bless visitors all year.  The 20 & 18 represent the current year, and the C, M, & B are the initials of the traditional names of the three wise men from the Bible known as Caspar, Melchior, and Balthasar.  The initials also have a second meaning as they represent the Latin phrase Christus Mansionem Benedicat which translates to May Christ Bless This Home.  The + signs are meant to be crosses that represent the protection of Christ.

Photos :  ( Narrow Streets  |  Joseph Mohr’s Home Sign ).

9. Mozart Footbridge ( Mozartsteg ):

About The Mozart Footbridge :  The pedestrian-only Mozart Footbridge ( Mozartsteg ) is named after Salzburg’s most famous resident and opened in 1903.  From the Northern bank of the Salzach River, you will great some of High Fortress gleaming over the steel arches of the Mozart footbridge.  The riverbank near the bridge is also a popular place both either fish or relax in the grass.

The Mozart Bridge was only the third built over the river into the heart of Old Town which is remarkable since Salzburg was started as the Roman village of Juvavum ( 15BC-488AD ).  From 15BC, the old Roman Bridge ( römische brücke ) was the only one to span the river and became covered in Medieval market stalls until it was replaced by the State Bridge ( staatbrücke ) in 1599AD.  A second bridge wasn’t opened until 1859 when the first Caroline Bridge ( Karolinenbrücke ) was completed and was followed later in 1903 by the Mozart Footbridge.  The Love Lock Bridge from earlier in this free Salzburg walking tour was the fourth to open in 1905.

In the movie The Sound of Music, the Mozart Footbridge is where Maria and the kids skip across the river while pointing during the instrumental end to the song  ‘My Favorite Things’ .  Along the bridge’s grassy riverbank, the children also skip along during the film scene.  To learn more about the nearby film sights see our  Sound Of Music Movie Tour .

10. Mozart Square ( Mozartplatz ):

About Mozartplatz :  With a giant statue of the city’s number one son, Mozart Square is the coolest place to enter Old Town Salzburg.  Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart made Salzburg his home for the first 25 years of his life ( 1756-1781 ) before moving to Vienna, and the  Mozart statue  dominates the center of the square.

When the statue was being added in 1841, the city found the foundations of two Roman Villas complete with 3 magnificent mosaic floors below the square.  The top layer of mosaics had an inscription that read “Here lives the luck, nothing evil should be allowed” in Latin.  Due to poor initial preservation, only 9 sections of the floors and an original color drawing of the findings remain today and can be viewed at the Salzburg Museum.

The real highlight of Mozartplatz may be the exterior of the beautiful pink  Church of Saint Michael  which dates back almost 1,000 years before Mozart to 813AD.  The inside of the church is a little bland to be worth your time, but the outside pop of color is excellent.  During WWII, an air raid bomb blasted a hole just steps from the Mozart statue, but luckily both it and the church were unharmed.

If you need to refuel for the rest of the free Salzburg walking tour, we suggest stopping for a coffee and pastries at the sprawling  Café Glockenspiel .   The cafe has a nice outdoor seating in the square plus a covered balcony area which are perfect both for people watching.  From the balcony, we especially love watching all of the  horse carriages  that line up in Mozartplatz.

11. New Residenz & Panorama 1829 :

About The New Residenz :  Starting in 1587, the Archbishop started began opening up a new main square for Salzburg including the building of  New Residenz ( Neugebäude )  on the square’s Eastside. The mansion-sized New Residenz replaced a tight grouping of Medieval homes, served as the Archbishop’s guest house, and today holds museum space.  Notice the huge  Glockenspiel Bell Tower  sitting on top of the New Residenz.  If you are lucky enough to be there when it chimes ( 7am, 11am, & 6pm ) you will hear the Glockenspiel’s 35 bells from the 1600s ring out a tune set to match the current month.  At the top of the Tower is a depiction of an upside down flaming heart surrounding the solar system is meant to symbolize God’s love for all of creation.

Inside the New Residenz, there are a few different things to do that make it worth a stop.  If you are looking for great local knickknacks and handcrafted items make sure to stop by the  New Residenz’s Heimatwerk Shop .  If it is a rainy day, consider checking out both the workshop and the Salzburg Museum of History and Art ( website ) inside the complex. There you can find many of the  Roman artifacts that have been discovered from Salzburg’s early days at the as the settlement of Luvaum ( 15BC-488AD ).

The one thing you really shouldn’t miss, which is attached to the New Residenz, is the  Salzburg Panorama 1929  ( website ) painted by Johann Michael Sattler.   The Panorama boasts a series of stunning 360-degree panoramic paintings of how many European cities looked in the early 1800s.  The mural of Salzburg is pretty straightforward, however, figuring out what European cities are in the others paintings is set up as a fun game.  They even give you a cheat sheet so you can verify your answers after you’ve investigated the murals.

Salzburg Museum Hours :  Tuesday-Sunday 9am-5pm; Closed Mondays.   Salzburg Museum Cost :  Adults 8.50€; Kids 4€; Family pass 17€.   Panorama Hours :  Daily 9am-5pm.   Panorama Cost :  Adults 3€; Kids 1€.    Glockenspiel Tower Hours :  Carillon plays music Daily at 7 am, 11 am and 6 pm.   Glockenspiel Tower Tours :  March-October Thursday 5:30 pm, Friday 10:30 am and by prior arrangement.   Glockenspiel Tower Cost :  Adults 4€; Kids 2€.  Panorama Website :   Here .   Museum Website :   Here .

12. Residenz Square & Fountain :

About Residenz Square :  Before modern Salzburg, the Residenz Square was once  part of an ancient Roman Forum  with an altar to Jupiter and a Pantheon Temple dedicated to all the gods.  While the Forum was largely built over in the centuries after the Romans left in 488, modern excavations of Residenz Square have revealed a lot.  Beneath the square, they found blocks from the time of Emperor Septimius Severus ( 193-211 ), ruins of Roman buildings, walls, a road, and a Weihealtar with inscriptions of the river god Iuvavus.  A 4-foot-tall part of the Jupiter Altar ( 2nd or 3rd century AD ) was found during renovations of the square in 2008.

In 1587, the Archbishop of Salzburg leveled many Medieval homes that had been built over the Forum as well as a cemetery so he could expand his palace and open the area up into a large square with  Italian style architecture .  Originally called Main Square ( Hauptplatz ), this new space was lined with Baroque buildings as it became the heart of town and today still shows off the Archbishop’s Italian ambitions.  Circling the square clockwise is pink Saint Micheal’s Church to the North, the  New Residenz  ( Neugebäude )  to the East, the  Salzburg Cathedral ( Dom )  to the South, and the  Old Residenz ( Alte Residenz )  to the West.

The vast Residenz Square is well known to movie lovers as the place where the Von Trapp family performs  ‘I Have Confidence in Me’  in the movie The Sound of Music.  Maria enters through the Domplatz arches on the Southwest corner of the Residenz Square and splashes in the 45 foot tall  Horse Fountain ( Residenzbrunnen ) .  The Horse Fountain is the focal point of the busy Square and is complete with a Triton which matches Bernini’s famous Triton Fountain in Rome.  Completed in 1661, the Horse Fountain is considered the largest Baroque fountain located outside of Italy.

The people watching in Residenz Square is fantastic as it if the center of everything Salzburg.  There have been local painters setting up in Residenzplatz forever, and many of them even take on fake Italian last names so they can charge higher rates for their work.

13. Gold Lane ( Goldgasse ):

About Goldgasse :  The curved and narrow Goldgasse alleyway gains its name from the goldsmiths that once had their shops here in Medieval times.  While the prestigious shops along Goldgasse are still a little upscale today, this will be your first look at Salzburg’s picture perfect back lanes.  For us, the highlight of the alley is the beautiful  Gasthof Goldgasse Restaurant  ( website ) which resembles an Alpine lodge inside.  The restaurant has excellent meals and is one of our favorite place of this free Salzburg walking tour to get traditional Austrian food.  They have lunch specials daily ranging from 11-19€ including a meal and dessert.

Gasthof Restaurant Hours :  Daily Noon-11pm; kitchen open until 10 pm; reservations suggested during lunch and dinner.   Gasthof Restaurant Website :   Here .

14. Old Market Square ( Alter Markt ):

About Old Market :  The city gained grain market rights in 996AD ( when Austria was formed ), but it wasn’t until after Salzburg was granted political sovereignty from Bavaria in 1297AD that the Old Market Square really took shape.  While it may seem tucked away today, the long Old Market ( Alter Markt ) served as  Medieval Salzburg’s main marketplace .  The location of the square was a vital gateway going back to Roman times as it directly lined up with the only bridge crossing the river into town from 15AD until 1859AD.  We love the square’s Saint Florian Fountain which goes back to 1488 and has a statue of the Saint added in the 1700s.

The weekly fresh produce market moved to University Square in 1857, but the Old Market ( Alter Markt ) is still great to visit as there are tons of shops and stands selling  excellent tourist souvenirs .  Some buildings of note around the square are Salzburg’s smallest house ( #10a ), and the  old Royal pharmacy  called the Hofapotheke ( #6,  website ).  The former Royal pharmacy dates back to 1591, has a beautiful Rococo facade which as added in 1777, and is fun to photograph.

You will also want to check out the Café Konditorei Fürst (#13,  website ) where confectioner Paul Furst created the now world-famous  Mozart Chocolate Balls  known as Mozartkugel in 1890.  We like to sit down at Cafe Furst for a coffee with our chocolate, but they have perfect sized mini-gift boxes of Mozartkugel available for sale if you are on the go.  You can wash your chocolate down with an uplifting cup of coffee or a fancy ice cream drink from Cafe Tomaselli ( #7,  website ) which is the  oldest cafe in Austria .  Frenchmen Johann Fontaine opened the first cafe in Salzburg on nearby Goldgasse in the year 1700, which was moved to the present location in 1764 and acquired by Carl Tomaselli in 1852.  Cafe Tomaselli was a favorite of Mozart who would come here for their almond milk.

Just off the Northwest corner of the Old Market is the slightly hidden  Old Town Hall ( Alter Rathaus ) .  Built in the 1300s as a Citizen’s Hall, the city bought the building to use as the Town Hall in 1407 and added the bell/clock tower.  The tower served as the lookout for the nightwatchman in Medieval times, and its clock also has a timeless moon dial.  In 1618, the marble statue of Justinian was added above the door to represent the justice of the court inside.  The Old Town Hall was given a Rocco-style facade in 1772, and the government offices later moved to Mirabell Palace in 1947.

15. Old Residenz Palace :

About Old Residenz Palace :  When they call it the Old Residenz Palace, they aren’t kidding.  There has been a mansion here for Salzburg’s Archbishop  since 1120AD  including the current one which was rebuilt in 1596 as part of an Italianate makeover.  To enlarge the Old Residenz Palace and open up a new town square, the Archbishop had to tear down a bunch of Medieval homes and a cemetery which themselves had been built over an ancient Roman forum.

Today you can tour 15 of the Palace’s  elegant staterooms  which are lavishly decorated plus a classic art gallery that has Rembrandt and Ruben paintings.  Film lovers may remember that in the Sound of Music movie, the palace had a giant Nazi flag draped on the facade of the Old Residenz Palace facing the square.

Hours :  Wednesday-Monday 10am-5pm; Closed Tuesdays.   Time Required :  It takes about 30 minutes for the Staterooms and 45 minutes for the art gallery.   Cost :  Adults 12€; Kids 5€; Family Pass 22€.   Guided Tours :  90-120 minute guided tours for large groups; audio guides are also available for smaller groups and individuals.   Website :   Here .

16. Salzburg Cathedral ( Salzburger Dom ):

About Salzburg Cathedral :  The Salzburg Cathedral ( Dom ) is by far the  biggest church in Old Town , faces 3 town squares at once, and is where Mozart was baptized.  The original Christian parish on the grounds was completed by Saint Virgil ( Bishop from 767-84 ) and was about half the size of the current Cathedral.  This first parish was consecrated on September 24th, 774 when the remains of  Saint Rupert  were moved here and an annual festival still marks the day.  Saint Rupert was the Bishop of Worms who came here in 696 to establish a new center to spread Christianity in the region.  Rupert spent the next 20 years building churches and a convent in what remained from the then sparsely occupied Roman town of Juvavum which once filled all of today’s Old Town.  While Saint Rupert’s work is considered the  founding of modern town , the name Salzburg wasn’t used until after Bishop Virgil ( from Ireland ) took over the church building work of his predecessors and was in honor of the ancient fort that was on the site of Nonnberg Abbey.

Bishop Virgil’s parish was subject many fires and expansions over the centuries and grew into a large complex including a choir, clergy house, a crypt, and cemetery.  After a 10 year rebuild from a fire in 1167, the Virgil Dom become the  mightiest Romanesque Cathedral  North of the Alps.  Another huge fire in 1598 led to church’s 8th re-build and the magnificent Baroque style Salzburg Cathedral you see today.  The new cathedral was planned by Archbishop Wolf Dietrich Raitenau who was already in the midst of revamping the neighboring Residenz Palace and new square with help from an Italian architect.  Some say he may have even been involved in the fire as an excuse to clear more room for his other building projects.  Although he was anti-Protestant, Bishop Raitenau was expelled by Bavarian forces and imprisoned for life after refusing to join the Reformation’s Catholic League.  The next Bishop was both a relative and nemesis of Raitenau, but also stayed out of the Catholic League and laid the cornerstone for the Cathedral in 1614 ( opened 1628 ).  It is a miracle that the new Salzburg Cathedral was built at all as most of Austria got swept up in Europe’s Catholic versus Protestant  30 Years’ War  during the construction.  While other cities were in the middle of this turmoil, Salzburg was able to rely on its rich salt production to have enough money to  remain independent  from the War.  Because of their independence, Salzburg was able to build this massive Church while most other cities had to scale back on their building projects.

Before entering the Salzburg Cathedral it is hard to miss the beautiful  Virgin Mary ( Madonna ) Statue  in Dom Square in front of the doors.  While it appears odd that the Mary statue is looking away from the church, further inspection reviles that the statue is actually interacting with the Church’s facade.  The two angels on the front of the Church are holding a crown and as you walk closer their relation to the Mary Statue give the appearance that they are actually placing the crown on her head.  Moving closer to the Cathedral’s entrance you’ll notice large scene with the  Statues of Four Saints  ( 1600s ) and three towering bronze gates ( 1900s ).  The 4 statues are of Saint Rupert holding a salt barrel, Saint Virgil with a church, Saint Peter with keys, and Saint Paul holding a sword.  Statues of apostles as well as Moses and Elijah are further up the facade.  The three gates are made to represent the  Three Virtues  ( Göttliche Tugenden ) and go from left to right: The  Gate of Faith  ( Tor des Glaubens ) the  Gate of Love  ( Tor der Liebe ), and the  Gate of Hope  ( Tor der Hoffnung ).

Inside the entrance look for the bronze baptismal font ( 1311 ) with lion statues ( 1200 )  where Mozart was baptized .  The most impressive part of the interior is the  huge 233 foot tall dome  which is painted into two eight piece sections depicting scenes from the Old Testament to go with murals of Passion of the Christ along the nave.  During WWII a bomb crashed right through the dome, but luckily didn’t explode.  Also awaiting the curious traveler is the working organ from 1703 that Mozart played during two years as the Church’s organist, an old tomb filled crypt with exposed pieces of the old Romanesques foundations from both 774 and 1167, plus an interesting Cathedral museum ( website ) covering 1300 years of history.  While the modern 4,000-pipe organs impressive, the 7 huge tower bells ( 2 from the 1600s ) are a real treat.  The group of bells is considered the finest sounding in Austria and among them, the  Salvator Bell , is the second largest in Austria weighing 14 tons.

Hours : Monday-Saturday 8am-6pm & Sundays 1pm-6pm; Summer months open until 7pm; Winter Mondays closes at 5pm.   Cost : Free, however donations requested.   Mass : Sunday 10am.   Organ Performance : June-Sept Wed & Sat 11:15am for one hour.   Museum Hours : Wednesday-Monday 10am-5pm ( last entrance 4pm, closed Tuesdays ); Open daily in December; July & August also open daily until 8pm.   Museum Cost :  Adults 10€, Kids Free.

17. Chapter Square ( Kapitelplatz ):

About Kapitelplatz :  The vast Chapter Square ( Kapitelplatz ) is named after the high clergy of Salzburg Cathedral who lived here in the Cathedral Monastery ( Domkloster ) through Medieval times.  When the monastery was disbanded in 1803, it and the rest of the square was opened up revealing glorious wide-angle views of the High Fortress above .  Today Chapter square is very festive hosting music and artist events, a huge beer tent during some holidays, outdoor movies in the Summer, and has a number of very interesting sights.  The Chapter Square is also where Maria catches the bus from Salzburg to visit the Von Trapp Family for the first time during the hit 1965 film The Sound of Music  while singing “I Have Confidence”.

The first two things to check out in Chapter Square are the giant  over-sized chess board  with two-foot-tall pieces and a 30-foot-tall yellow orb sculpture topped with a man standing on top.  Called Sphaera, the orb was made in 2007 by artist Stephan Balkenhol as part of a series of works with the same male figure across Europe ( Mann on Giraffe ,  Mann on Stump ,  Mann on Elk ).  If you’ve been to Munich Germany’s city center, you may have noticed the same male figure from this Salzburg sculpture walking off a steel beam in another of the Balkenhol’s works.  Locally the work is called Mann auf Mozartkugel after the famous round local treats made out of chocolate you may remember from earlier in this free Salzburg walking tour.

Continuing through Kapitelplatz Square, you’ll run into a medieval  Horse Bath Fountain ( Kapitelschwemme )  from 1732 AD which is framed by two lovely trees.  Nowadays the Horse Bath is more of a well and pond, but back in the 1700s it served as the equivalent of a full-blown car wash for your horse.  The area around the fountain is also an excellent spot for photos of the High Fortress on the hilltop above you.

If you have been looking for a bathroom, there is a public restroom under the archways separating Kapitelplatz from Cathedral Square.  Also under the archways, opposite the bathrooms, is the  Coat of Peace copper statue by artist Anna Chromý which is one of our favorite hidden gems of Salzburg.

Photos : ( Chess Board  |  Horse Bath ).

18. Stieglkeller Beer Hall & Restaurant :

About Stieglkeller :  The Beer Hall that locals recommend the most to us is the historic  Stieglkeller  which is elevated 1/4 the way up the side of Mönchstein Hill.  Partially shaded by trees, the multi-leveled beer garden has room for over 1000 guests and almost every outdoor table has a great view of Old Town Salzburg.  It is a perfect place to rest your feet and grab a beer on a warm summer afternoon.  The inside of the Beer Hall is decorated to look like an old hunting lodge and has good traditional food.

One of the main reason locals love Stiegl so much is that they opened their brewery in Salzburg in 1492 and are the largest brewery in Austria that is still privately owned.  Located on the South of Mönchstein Hill, you can visit the Stiegl Brewery and museum for daily tours.  There are two other very popular beer halls and beer gardens in Salzburg.  The  Sternbraeu  off of Getreidegasse Street, but it does not have the same commanding view as StiegKeller.  There is also the classic 1,000 seat  Bräustübl Tavern  attached to a monk’s brewery from 1621, which is our overall favorite and where we will end this Old Town Salzburg walking tour.

StieglKeller Hours :  Daily 11am-10pm; open until 11pm in Summer.   Website :   Here .

19. Fortress Funicular ( Festungsbahn ):

About The Funicular : There has been a lift up Mönchsberg Mountain to Hohensalzburg Fortress since at least two decades before 1515AD and a modern funicular since 1892.  It is by far the easiest way to get up the cliff side as it turns a very steep hike into an easy 54 second ride.  The glass enclosed cars can carry 55 people per trip and service 1.7 million visitors a year.

Hours : Varies but usually 8am-Midnight.   Cost : 2-4€.  Your ride will be added onto your ticket for Hohensalzburg Fortress.   Website :   Here .

20. High Salzburg Fortress ( Hohensalzburg ):

About High Salzburg Fortress :  Since 1077 AD, this castle-like High Salzburg Fortress ( Hohensalzburg ) has been towering over Salzburg from Mönchstein Hill offering an ever steady sense of protection. Thanks to an expansion around 1500 AD, Hohensalzburg is one of the largest fortifications in Europe and one of the only ones never over taken by force.

With views grand enough to match The High Fortress’ massive scale, the castle has easily become Salzburg’s number one tourist attraction.  Hohensalzburg holds a decent  Fortress Museum and  Medieval Prince Apartments  which are worth a visit, but the best room is the gilded,  Golden Fortress Room .  Even if you are short on time at least stop to take in the 360 degree views which let you see all over Salzburg and even all the way to the Alps toward the South.

Hours : May-September 9am-7pm; October-April 9:30am-5pm; last admission 30 minutes before close.   Cost : With Staterooms and funicular Adults are 15.50€ and Kids 8.70€.  You can save a couple euros by hiking up and a couple more by visiting by 10am during peak season.   Website :   Here .

21. Saint Peter’s Cemetery ( Petersfriedhof ):

About Saint Peter’s Cemetery :  The beautiful Saint Peter’s Cemetery has been in use since before 700 AD, and its cliff-side catacombs go back even  further to 215 AD .  With wrought -iron headstones, this beautiful flower-filled cemetery may be the most peaceful stop on our free Salzburg walking tour.  You can even get some get vantage points in of the Salzburg castle high above you as you stroll among the tombs.

In the beginning, Saint Peter’s Cemetery was reserved only for the burials of monks living in the neighboring monastery until it was opened to the public in 1454.  The oldest surviving headstone is from 1288 AD, and the cemetery is also where Mozart’s sister Maria Anna and composer Michael Haydn are buried.  You can find their graves in the entrance to the catacombs explained next on their free Salzburg walking tour map.  There is even an American buried in the cemetery as Major General Harry Collins, who was the commander that liberated Dachau Concentration Camp in 1945, met his second wife in Salzburg and moved here after the war.

Our favorite graves are the 7 tightly clustered iron cross headstones from the 1700s for the Stumpfegger family.  Local folklore save that Sebastian Stumpfegger murdered his 6 wives and they are all buried there together.  In reality, the graves are for the stonemason Stumpfegger, his parents, and his 4 wives.  None of the wives were murdered and 3 of the 4 died in childbirth which was very common at the time, even more so since Stumpfegger had 21 kids.

The most interesting thing about Saint Peter’s, unlike most cemeteries around the world, is that you do not buy the plots but instead rent them.  Relatives of the dead must pay rent for each plot every 10 years and must also be the caretakers.  If your family doesn’t pay your rent, the church tosses your body out.

In the center of the cemetery is the Gothic-style stone chapel which was dedicated to Saint Margaret in 1170.  Now used as a mausoleum, the church was originally built as Amandus Chapel around 700AD by Saint Rupert before being rebuilt in 1170 and again in 1491.

In the mid-1600s, iron-gated arcades holding private family tombs were added ringing the cemetery.   In the 1965 movie ( and 1959 play ) The Sound of Music, these archways and headstones were depicted as where the Von Trapps hid from Nazis  during their escape, although the actual scene was filmed in Hollywood.  Behind the arcades on the Eastern side of the cemetery is the Saint Peter’s Bakery which is the oldest in town going back to 700 and is famous for its sweetbread.

Cemetery Hours : April-September 6:30am-7pm; October-March 6:30am-5:30pm.   Cemetery Cost : Free.

22. Saint Peter’s Catacombs :

About The Catacombs :  While touring the cemetery, you may also notice a number of window-like holes along the Southern cliffside in the cemetery which are the now empty catacombs.  As the Roman’s carved away stone to build their city of Luvaum ( 15BC-488AD ) part of the cliff-side started to be used by early-Christians for assembly and hermitage as early as 215AD.  Because the Pagan Romans used cremation and didn’t allow burials inside of town ( except for Emperors ), the catacombs likely weren’t used for the dead much or at all until after the Empire adopted Christianity in the 300s.

Near the entrance to the catacombs are the graves of Mozart’s sister Nannerl and composer Michael Haydn.  After climbing stone 48 steps you find chapel of Saint Gertrude ( died 659 ) dating back to 1178 and 36 steps further up is the chapel for Christian martyr Maximus ( died 250 ).  both of the cliffside chapels were dedicated by Archbishop Conrad of Wittelsbach in the 1170s.  Seeing the mainly bare underground catacombs requires hiking up a lot of stone steps carved inside the cliff, but the views of the cemetery below are stunning.

Catacombs Hours : May-September Daily 10am-6pm; October-April Daily 10am-5pm; Closed on holidays.   Catacombs Cost : Adults 2€; Kids 1.50€.

23. Saint Peter’s Abbey :

About Saint Peter’s Abbey :  Saint Peter’s Abbey was established by Saint Rupert, who is considered the founder of modern Salzburg , in 696AD.  Saint Rupert ( Frankish missionary & Bishop of Worms ) was given this control of this former Roman town of Juvavum ( 15BC-476AD ) by the Duke of Bavaria ( Theodo ) to revive it into a Christian stronghold.  This spot was chosen for his church as there had already been an abbey for monks established here by  Severinus of Noricum ( 410-482 ) in as early as 450AD.

Officially established in 696, Saint Peter’s Abbey is the  oldest church in Salzburg and is also the oldest continuous monastery in the German-speaking world.  Before his death in 710, Saint Rupert also started a second small abbey on the site of today’s Salzburg Cathedral ( Dom, established in 774 ), Amandus chapel ( now called Saint Margaret s) in the Saint Peter Cemetery, and other churches in the region which earned him the title of Patron Saint of the Salt Miners.  Rupert’s own sister Erentrudis was inspired to build Nonnberg nunnery on the towns original fort in 711 which is world’s oldest continuous Christian women convent.  Two of the sons of the Duke of Bavaria ( Theodo ) who sent Rupert to establish churches ruled Bavaria out of Salzburg ( 702-725 ) instead of Regensburg to see the work be sustained.  From 739- 987, the abbot of Saint Peter’s Church was automatically Bishop of Salzburg and even after that changed the monastery remained the residence of the Bishop until 1110.

Today’s Romanesque version of Saint Peter’s Church was built in 1130 ( dedicated in 1147 ) before getting its iconic steeple onion dome and Rococo-style interior in the mid-1700s.  The interior is the real treat of any visit to Saint Peter’s and the narrow nave is lined with Goliath-sized painted canvases under a muraled ceiling.  There is also a painting museum area from the 1600s known as the Long Gallery, but the impressive walls of the main nave are more interesting.  Next to the altar where Saint Rupert is entombed are the tombs of Mozart’s sister Maria Anna Mozart and famous composer Johann Michael Haydn.  The monastery’s 10,000 book library is the oldest in Austria including over the 800 old-world manuscripts with the most precious being the  Verbrüderungsbuch , brought here in 784 by Bishop Virgil.

In the square facing the entrance to the abbey is a central statue of Saint Peter looking up to the steeple while praying.  Along the north side of Saint Peter’s Square, you can see an excellent vertical sundial on the archway leading to the Franciscan Church which we will visit soon on our free Salzburg walking tour.

360 Degree Tour :  Amazing virtual tour  here .   Church Hours :  Daily 8am-Noon and 2:30-6:30pm; No visits during mass.   Church Website :   Here .

24. Saint Peter’s Restaurant ( Stiftskulinarium ):

About Saint Peter’s Restaurant :  In addition to the historic bakery from 700AD, Saint Peter’s Abbey is also a destination for food lovers with their Stiftskulinarium Restaurant.  Widely considered  Europe’s oldest restaurant ,  Alcuin of York, an English scholar attendant ( liegeman ) of Emperor Charlemagne ate here first documenting the restaurant in 803AD.  The restaurant was later heavily written about starting in the 1300s and began extremely popular with nobility, the bourgeoisie, and the clergy by the 1700s.  Over time Saint Peter’s Restaurant has grown to have multiple dining rooms throughout numerous rooms of the former Benedictine monastery.

There are 11 dining rooms inside Saint Peter’s Restaurant and we have three favorite spaces.  The amazing Felsenstube Room is one of the oldest in the restaurant, is chiseled out of the cliffside hundreds of years ago, and is used for wine tastings.  Our other favorites are the exposed brick vaulted Rardstube Hall which was the wine cellar 1200 years ago and the Gothic-arched Innenhof Courtyard is one of the most timeless spaces you’ll find in Salzburg.  During the Christmas season, the Innenhof Courtyard is beautifully decorated like a wonderland to celebrate Advent complete with a gluhwein ( hot mulled wine ) stand.

Micheal Haydn, who was one Mozarts friends, the creator of the modern string quartet, and the little brother of famous composer Joseph Haydn also lived on the restaurant’s second floor ( 1760-63 ).   A dining hall named after him now takes up Haydn’s former room.  In 1809 French troops were even housed in the restaurant during Napoleon’s invasion.

The Saint Peter’s Restaurant is world-renowned for its nightly  Mozart Dinner Concerts  ( more info ) in their Baroque Ballroom which have been taking place since 1996.  Having seen the wonderful concert ourselves, we feel that it’s a splurge that is easy to justify with the highly talented singers & musicians, authentic 1700s-style costumes, and the perfect ballroom setting.  It’s hard to come to the city of Mozart and not want to hear some authentic performers doing his music.

Restaurant Hours :  Daily 11:30am-11pm ( reservations highly recommended ).  Restaurant Website :   Here .   Mozart Concert Time :  Night at 7:30pm; lasts 2.5 hours; doors open one hour early.   Mozart Concert Cost :   63-73€ with a 3-course meal ( drinks not included ).   Mozart Concert Website :   Here .

25. Franciscan Church ( Franziskanerkirche‎ ):

About Franziskanerkirche‎ :  There has been a church here since 1139, but it is the current Gothic-style one that will make your jaw drop.  You’ll enjoy trying to wrap your head around the scale of the forest of columns holding up the uniquely designed  vaulted canopy of a ceiling .  The breathtaking beauty is impossible to get into one photo unless you have a fish eye lens.  The interior is pretty bare as all of the color and attention is meant to be drawn to the gilded Virgin Mary alter in the center of the Church which dates back to 1709.

In addition to the goliath-sized pillars and stunning interior, you’ll also want to pay attention to the front door of the Franciscan Church.  There is a special element at the entrance known as the Asylum Hand which you should touch as you enter.  It is said that anyone who touches the hand is granted entrance regardless if they are guilty or pure.  This is significant as historically the Franciscan Church has been considered modest the church of the people while the mighty Salzburg Cathedral was the showpiece of the Prince-Archbishop.

Church Hours :  Daily 6:30am-7:30pm; No visits during mass.   Church Website : Here .

26. Festival Hall Complex :

About The Festival Hall :  The three-block-long Festival Hall complex is home to three performance theater and was the site of some of the best scenes filmed for The Sound of Music.  After the Saint Peter’s Benedictine Convent was closed ( 1125-1583 ) the Prince-Archbishop of Salzburg, Wolf Dietrich von Raitenau, had the Royal Horse Stables ( Hofmarstall ) built on the Western end of today’s complex over ten years starting in 1599.  The stables held over 150 horses and were later expanded Eastward with an indoor Winter Riding School in 1662 and an open-air Summer Riding School carved into the cliffside in 1693.  The riding school quickly became important to Salzburg’s upper class for horse training and riding competitions similar to the Spanish Riding School in Vienna.

For the 5th annual Salzburg Festival in 1925, a section of the former horse stables complex was re-built as the  Small Festival Hall Theater ( Kleines Festspielhaus ) and became the new home for the event.  The following year the former open-air Summer Riding School area was turned into a second performance space for the Salzburg Festival.  Originally carved out of the stone cliffside in 1693 in a former quarry, the space has an impressive 3-level, 96-box viewing gallery and is well-nicknamed the  Rock Riding School ( Felsenreitschule ).   We love how the arched portal stone wall looks like a gladiator arena especially since Salzburg was originally a Roman town called Luvaum ( u-va-voom ) established in 15BC.  Now serving as the lobby for the Rock Riding School Theater, the massive Karl Böhm Hall was the original indoor winter riding school built in 1662.  This vast space is highlighted by a 600 square meter ceiling mural painted in 1690 depicting Turkish military exercises on horseback.

The open-air Rock Riding School theater gained a partial roof ( now fully retractable ) in the 1930s and is where the real-life Von Trapp Family Choir won the singing competition in 1936.  Although the family had left Salzburg before the first Salzburg Festival under Nazi occupation in 1938, the Festival Hall was used in the filming of some key scenes in the 1965 movie The Sound of Music.  In the film, the Von Trapps perform a melody mashup on the stage before then Captain sings  ‘Edelweiss’  with help from the audience followed by the family joining in  ‘So Long, Farewell’  before they exit and make their escape.

During their conversion into theaters, the Small Festival Hall and the Rock Riding School were connected with a large foyer completed  covered in beautiful frescoes .  While the Nazis covered up the frescoes during their WW2 occupation of Salzburg, they were thankfully brought back to life in 1956.  After a lot of work, the painted lobby and original indoor theater ( Small Festival Hall ) were renovated as the new House for Mozart ( Haus für Mozart ) in 2006, celebrating  250 years since Mozart was born  in Salzburg.

A third theater was added onto the complex in 1960 known as the Large Festival Hall ( Großes Festspielhaus ) which has one of the largest stages in the world at 100 meters wide with steel plate backdrop.  You can still see some of the original entrance arches on the outer walls in the foyer leading to the Large Festival Hall Theater as well as on the Western exterior of the complex.

Address :  Hofstallgasse 1.   Guided Tour Cost :  Adults 7€; Kids 4€.   Guided Tour Hours :  50 minute guided tours are at 2pm daily ( also 9:30am, 2pm & 3:30pm in July & August ).   Photo :  ( Exterior from the West ).   Website :   Here .

Featured On : Sound of Music Movie Tour .

27. University Square ( Universitätsplatz ):

About University Square :  Salzburg’s main open-air market sits in the vast University Square with growers from all over the region selling delicious produce.  Known as the Green Market ( Grünmarkt ), it was established in 1857 and is still open daily.  We recommend recharging here by buying some fruit and taking a short break to do some people watching.

On the Southside of University Square is the massive Collegiate Church which was started in 1694, but took over 70 years to fully complete as the original  builder went blind  a few years into the project.  This cathedral was where Mozart premiered “Mass in D minor” on February 5th, 1769 which is one of his prettiest arrangements.  While the size of the white Church is awesome, the interior is fairly bland.

Tucked away along the West side of the Church is a large grassy square called Prince′s Park ( Furtwänglerpark ) which was once part of a Franciscan Monastery then by the 1600s the University of Salzburg.  With most of Salzburg’s squares paved over since Medieval times, there aren’t many huge green spaces like this in the heart of Old Town.

Turning around to the Northside of University Square, you’ll see numerous windows on the backside of Mozart’s Birth Place House ( Universitätspl #14 ).  We will visit Mozart’s house next on this free Salzburg walking tour and it gives you some great elevated vantage points to admire the scale of Collegiate Church towering over the square.  We love to exit University Square toward Grain Lane ( Getreidegasse ) through the narrow Medieval pathways connecting the two streets called Through House Alleys ( Durchaus ).  There are more than ten covered alleyways all filled with shops, but our favorite is Roittner-Passage which connects Universitätsplatz #15 through to Getreidegasse #7 via a gorgeous courtyard.

Outdoor Market Hours : Monday-Friday 7am-7pm; Saturday 6am-3pm; Sunday Closed.   Church Website :   Here .

28. Mozart’s Birthplace ( Geburtshaus ):

About Mozart’s Birth Place :  On January 27th, 1756 one of the true pioneers of Classical music was  born in this very home , Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart.  You simply can’t miss the home with its bright yellow facade and large groups of tourists milling around the entrance.  This museum is by far the most visited Mozart landmark in Salzburg.

The three stories of interesting exhibits are labeled in multiple languages and take about 90 minutes to get through.  Everything starts on the 3rd floor where you are introduced to the different members of the family and even get to check out the room Mozart for born in.  The 2nd floor primarily focuses on Mozart as a composer of operas.  There are a ton of set models and costumes from his operas, plus excerpts from Mozart’s most famous operas for you to listen to.  We especially love the different  musical instruments  that are on display including one of the famous violins Mozart performed with.  The 1st floor and final floor is dedicated to everyday life of the family both while at home and while traveling.  The collections included 18th-century travel utensils, original documents, and paintings telling the Mozart family’s story in Salzburg and abroad.  A few of the rooms are staged with period furniture to help give you the atmosphere of the age.

Hours :  Daily 9am-5:30pm; in July & August open until 7pm; last entry 30 minutes before closing.   Cost : 10€ for Adults; 3.50€ for kids; 21€ for a family ticket.  Combo ticket available with his adult home.   Guided Tours :  While the Museum is mainly self-guided and takes 90 minutes, you can book a staff-guided tour as well for 66€ per group.  All staff tours must be booked at least 2 weeks in advance.   Website :   Here .

29. Grain Lane ( Getreidegasse ):

About Getreidegassee :  Grain Lane, or Getreidegasse ( pronounced Ga-try-Da-gah-sa ), is the main shopping street in Salzburg since Medieval times.  It is complete with high-end stores like Louis Vuitton, many jewelry stores ( schmuck ), and even a very  fancy McDonald’s  which has silverware and outdoor seating.  You can really see the Medieval roots of this compact pedestrian street by the signage that hangs above each shop.  In the Middle Ages  almost no one could read  so instead of having signs with business names on them, the shops would hang an icon for their trade or craft.  Notice how the signs for the hat maker, locksmith, umbrella shop and many more have kept this signage tradition alive.  One of the best parts of this free Salzburg walking tour is getting lost among the shops on Getreidegasse for a good hour and it’s even better if you stop by any of the roadside gelato stands for a delicious treat.

At the beginning of Getreidegasse Street is a very inviting bar known for its schnapps drinks called the  Sporer Schnapps Pit Stop  ( No 39,  website ).  Sporer has located in the building since 1905 and their staff very English-language friendly.  If you like what they have to offer you can even buy an eighth of a liter ( achtel ) of schnapps to bring with you.  It’s crazy to think that there have been homes documented on the site of the Sporer shop going back to Roman times in 174AD with the current house dating to 1407.

Even if you aren’t shopping make sure to stop into the  active Wieber Blacksmith Shop  ( No 28,  Facebook )   to get a real life look into the trade as local craftsmen hammer their red-hot creations into an anvil.  They make everything from custom keys, modern works, and the decorative outdoor signs that adorn the street’s shops.  There has been a blacksmith here  since 1415AD  and the current shop is on its 4th generation of owners.  Make sure to also check out the Sound of Music World Museum at the western end of the lane ( No 47, website ) which is run by the same group that manages the Von Trapps family’s real-life home in Salzburg.

Sporer Shop Hours :  Monday-Friday 9:30am-7pm; Saturday 8:30am-5pm; Closed Sundays.   Blacksmith Hours :  Monday-Friday 7:30am-5:30pm; Closed Saturday & Sundays.   Sound Of Music World Hours :  Daily 10am-6pm.

30. Horse Bath ( Pferdeschwemme ):

About The Horse Bath : Hugging the side of Mönchsberg Hill is Salzburg’s largest Medieval horse bath ( Pferdeschwemme ) which in the Middle Ages were like car washes for horses.  Because this horse bath was part of the neighboring Royal Stables ( Hofmarstall ), the Prince-Archbishop had the mural backdrop and statue of a horse being tamed added to the sprawling fountain in 1693.  In the movie The Sound of Music this was where Maria and the kids danced around while singing  ‘My Favorite Things’ .

There are actually two of these Medieval horse baths remaining in old town Salzburg with the larger painted one located here which was part of the Royal Stables ( Marstallschwemme ) and a smaller one in Chapter Square ( Kapitelschwemme ) from earlier in this free Salzburg walking tour with a beautiful fountain drooping trees.  Like all of the fountains in Salzburg, this one is fed by a series of underground water canals said to go back to Roman times which were later revamped in both the 700s and the 1200s, long before most of today’s Baroque structures were built.

31. Winkler Terrace :

About Winkler Terrace :  High above the West side of Salzburg on Monks’ Hill ( Mönchsberg ), the breath-taking Winkler Terrace has stunning panoramic views of Old Town.  The amazing view from the stone terrace was highlighted in the movie The Sound of Music during a number of scenes including the song  Do Re Mi .  The neighboring M32 Cafe ( website ) was once Cafe Winkler before the Modern Art Museum ( website ) was built here, but the terrace has been preserved.

Overall our experience visiting the cafe has been very negative as it is the only place in Salzburg we have ever got really bad service and it has happened to us three times here.  That being said, we suggest going up for the city views on the sprawling terrace which is free but if you want coffee or food then visit either the nearby Stadt Cafe next to the Militia Wall which also has amazing views or check out the fancy Schloss Mönchstein Hotel.  Both of these alternatives are explained next on our free Salzburg walking tour.

Getting Up To Winkler Terrace :  The most accessible way up is the  Mönchsberg Elevator  which sits behind the Salzburg Museum and takes you directly to Winkler Terrace.  Look for the pink row house along the cliff with a large MdM above the entrance.  The elevator is fully inside the cliff while the tube-like tower on the side is actually the Gstätten Tower.  Alternatively, can take a taxi to up the backside of the cliff to M32 Cafe or the stairs at Toscaninihof ( behind the Festival Hall ) to the top of Mönchsberg and reach the terrace with a 15-minute walk.

Elevator Hours :  Tuesday-Sunday 8am-9pm; Monday 8am-7pm.  July & August Daily 8am-11pm.   Elevator Cost :  Adults 2.30€ one way or 3.60€ round trip; kids half off.   Modern Art Museum Hours :  Tuesday-Sunday 10am-6pm; Wednesday 10am-8pm; Closed Mondays.   Museum Cost :  8€.   Photos : ( View From Terrace  |  View From Cafe at Night  |  Schloss Mönchstein  |  Johannesschlössl ).

Other Nearby Sights:

32. militia city wall ( bürgerwehr ):.

About Bürgerwehr :  Near the Winkler Terrace is the amazing the timeless fortified Militia Wall ( Bürgerwehr ) which was built on the hilltop from 1465-80 to protect the West side of Salzburg.  This is the only place in Salzburg with the remnants of the Medieval city wall really feels mighty as it is over forty feet tall .  Other defensive structures on top of the cliff top include the Mülleggertor Gate ( 1280 ), Frey Palace red tower ( Roter Turm-1278 ), and eventually wraps around to the High Fortress from earlier on this free Salzburg walking tour.

While you stroll along the ramparts of the Burgerwehr wall, the small Stadt Alm Cafe ( website ) is one of our favorite places to get coffee in Salzburg.  Located inside a small hostel, Stadt Alm still has decent views with plenty of seating, but less crowded and less expensive than the M32 Cafe ( horrible service ) on Winkler Terrace.

33. Castle Mönchstein Hotel :

About Castle Mönchstein Hotel :  The beautiful Castle Mönchstein ( Schloss Mönchstein ) was first documented 1350AD as the Tetelheimer Tower ( Tetelheimer Turm ).  For the most part, the tower served as a home and fort until Saint Peter’s Monastery acquired the property in 1654 as a retreat for its professors.  During this period the tower was expanded and called the  Professors Castle .  What is now the tower room on the castle was then used as an astronomical observatory. Castle Mönchstein was turned into a luxury hotel in 1948 and has gone on to win countless castle hotel and restaurant awards.  It is one of our favorite castle hotels in the world and a great place to stay in Salzburg.  Even if you can’t stay here, walking past the castle and the grounds are pretty impressive.

Hotel Website :   Here .

34. Augustiner Monks Beer Hall :

About The Augustiner Beer Hall :  There is no better place to end a long Salzburg walking tour than an amazing Augustiner Beer Hall ( Bräustübl ) that has been open since 1621 AD.  The  beer is even older  as before coming to Salzburg, the Augustiner monks opened a brewery in Munich in 1328.  Over the centuries the monks perfected brewing and their light beer ( Helles ) is our favorite.  Out of the beer hall’s 1500 seats, we like hanging out in the outdoor beer garden section the most.

When choosing where to sit there  two types of service , Waiter Service ( bedienung ) and Self-service ( schank ) where you wash your own cup at the cleaning fountain ( krüglwasch brunnen ) before getting your beer.  The mugs themselves are a great throw back as it is one of the only places still serving beer in traditional  ceramic beer steins .  Waiters do not serve food, but as long as you purchase a drink mug you can bring any food you want with you.  You can either bring your own food with you picnic-style or hit up the deli upstairs for a great selection of pizza, deli meat, and cheese.

Depending on how early arrive, consider  touring the brewery  to see what happens behind the scenes and get an exclusive tasting.  Tours run Monday-Friday afternoons with advanced booking for 13.90€ per person.  They require a minimum of 10 people, but you may be able to join an existing group, online booking here .  From the tavern you can easily walk up the back side of the Monchsberg Cliff to get a great night time view of Salzburg.  The Mönchstein elevator closes after midnight, so if you are trying to get into Old Town from the cliff viewpoint late at night you will need to back track to the Bräustübl Tavern and follow the river back.

Hours :  Monday-Friday 3-11pm; Saturdays-Sundays and public holiday 2:30-11pm.   Photos :  ( Traditional Stein  |  Wooden Kegs  |  Slideshow from Brewery ).   Website :   Here .

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Free Walking Tour Salzburg

Free walking tour Salzburg is one of the best ways to visit the beautiful city of Salzburg in Austria, known for its baroque architecture, stunning mountain views, and rich musical heritage. The city was the birthplace of Mozart and is home to numerous historical landmarks, including the Salzburg Cathedral and the Mirabell Palace. Visitors can also enjoy the charming narrow streets and quaint coffeehouses, as well as the lively local markets and street performers. Whether you are a history buff, a music lover, or just looking for a peaceful escape, Salzburg has something for everyone.

General information

Meet your guide at the Mirabell Palace

11:00 hrs / 18:00 hrs

Tip only basis

Please remember to check your ticket after booking to ensure you don’t miss any updates from your guide.

Free Walking Tour Salzburg – Highlights

Free walking tour salzburg – itinerary.

Free walking tour Salzburg will start at the Mirabell Palace, where you can admire its beautiful gardens and fountains.

From there, you will continue to the impressive St. Peter’s Abbey, a medieval monastery that was once a center of learning and culture.

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You will also see the iconic Salzburg Cathedral, with its towering spires and beautiful stained glass windows.

Finally, you will visit the historic Old Town, with its narrow cobblestone streets, picturesque squares, and historic buildings that have been beautifully preserved. The tour will end at the stunning Residenzplatz, surrounded by impressive buildings, monuments, and fountains.

Frequent asked questions

What is the maximum number of participants for this free walking tour in salzburg.

The maximum number of participants is 20 people, although we normally have 10.

Can this free tour be done for one single group?

If you want a tour for only your group, please request a quotation for a private tour.

Can my children participate in this walking tour?

Of course, in Free Tour Salzburg everyone is welcome.

Do we see all the places listed in the itinerary?

The itinerary of this tour may change sometimes.

What should you bring?

Check the weather on the day of the tour to make sure you bring and umbrella in case is raining. Bring comfortable shoes, cash and a big smile 🙂

Book this tour now

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Free Walking Tour Salzburg

Take a free tour of salzburg. the city of mozart and stunning architecture, free  salzburg walking tour.

Gerhard, a native Salzburger, founded the first Free Walking Tour Company in his hometown in 2018 after working there as a Rikscha driver and in Hostels for many years. Because the license for walking tours in Austria requires three semesters of education, the Free Walking Tour Salzburg is mostly a one-person show but tries to run at least a tour a day.

The Free Tour of Salzburg is designed to introduce you to the city. Salzburg is small. Therefore, we pass by the most famous sights on a 1,5 hours walk. During these 1,5 hours, I love to share stories, answer questions, recommend places to eat, and offer ideas of things to see and do.

Furthermore, I provide a custom printed city map, including essential information for the rest of your stay in Salzburg and postcards you can send home to your loved ones.

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In this article, you will find out about the must-do and must-see attractions and activities during your time in the city of Salzburg.

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FREE WALKING TOUR SALZBURG - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go

The 10 BEST Free Walking Tours in Salzburg

• 2024-03-07 2024-03-07

Introduction

Welcome to Salzburg, Austria! This charming city, known for its beautiful architecture, rich history, and captivating culture, is best explored on foot. Walking tours offer an immersive and intimate way to discover Salzburg’s hidden gems, historic sites, and breathtaking landscapes. In this blog post, we will guide you through the top walking tours in Salzburg and provide you with all the information you need to make the most of your visit.

1. Old Town Walking Tour

The Old Town of Salzburg is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-see for any visitor. This walking tour will take you through the narrow medieval streets, baroque squares, and iconic landmarks of the city. Some highlights of the Old Town Walking Tour include:

• Mirabell Palace and Gardens
• Mozart’s Birthplace
• Getreidegasse (Shopping street)
• The Salzburg Cathedral
• The Hohensalzburg Fortress
• The Marionette Theater

Guided tours by knowledgeable locals are available, providing historical insights and anecdotes. Alternatively, you can opt for a self-guided tour using maps or smartphone apps.

2. Sound of Music Tour

Salzburg is famous for being the setting of the legendary movie “The Sound of Music.” This walking tour allows you to relive the magic of the movie as you explore the filming locations and learn interesting behind-the-scenes facts. Highlights of the Sound of Music Tour include:

• The Nonnberg Abbey
• Mirabell Gardens (Do-Re-Mi scene)
• The Leopoldskron Palace
• St. Peter’s Cemetery
• The Hellbrunn Palace

Don’t forget to sing along to the movie’s iconic songs as you visit each location!

3. Salzburg Lakes District Walking Tour

If you’re looking for a more serene and nature-filled experience, the Salzburg Lakes District Walking Tour is perfect for you. This tour takes you outside the city to explore the picturesque lakes and mountains surrounding Salzburg. Some of the lakes you will encounter include:

• Wolfgangsee

Enjoy the stunning alpine landscapes, visit charming villages, and take in the crystal-clear waters of the lakes. Make sure to bring your camera, as photo opportunities in this region are abundant.

4. Salzburg Beer Walking Tour

Beer lovers rejoice! Salzburg has a rich brewing tradition, and this walking tour explores the city’s best breweries and beer gardens. As you stroll through the city, you’ll have the opportunity to taste a variety of local brews and learn about Salzburg’s beer history. Some highlights of the Salzburg Beer Walking Tour include:

• Augustiner Bräu
• Schlossbrauerei Hellbrunn
• Mullner Bräu

Experience the unique flavors of Salzburg’s craft beers and discover why beer has been such an integral part of the city’s culture for centuries.

5. Hidden Gems Walking Tour

If you’re a traveler who seeks off-the-beaten-path adventures, the Hidden Gems Walking Tour will unveil Salzburg’s best-kept secrets. Explore lesser-known neighborhoods, discover hidden courtyards, and stumble upon local treasures. This tour will take you to places such as:

• Linzer Gasse
• Riedenburg District
• Kapuzinerberg
• Vogelweideplatz Market

This is the perfect tour for those who want to experience Salzburg like a local and avoid the tourist crowds.

Salzburg’s walking tours offer an immersive and enriching experience for visitors of all interests. Whether you’re a history buff, a music enthusiast, a nature lover, a beer connoisseur, or an adventurer seeking hidden gems, there is a walking tour in Salzburg that will capture your heart. So put on your comfortable shoes, grab a map or join a guided tour, and get ready to explore the enchanting streets of Salzburg, one step at a time.

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Free things to do in Salzburg

Salzburg is the perfect place to explore without paying a penny. It is not only the birthplace of Mozart but also has plenty of free things to do and see, including Salzburg Cathedral, Mirabell Gardens and Hohensalzburg Fortress. It is a great place to visit, even if you are on a budget .

Salzburg is a beautiful city with an impressive history that you can explore for free. It is famous for being the setting for The Sound of Music and many of the locations from the film can be visited.

Salzburg is a great city for families and couples alike. Here are some free things to do in Salzburg, Austria that will not cost you anything.

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Explore Salzburg city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

The old town of Salzburg is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In 1997 the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) declared Salzburg’s old town a world heritage site. The designation ensures that this distinctive architecture will be preserved for future generations to enjoy.

There are statues, churches and palaces available to view for free and everything is within walking distance from each other. You can take your time exploring all there is to see, without having to worry about transportation.

The baroque city of Salzburg enjoys a reputation as one of the Alps’ most beautiful northern cities. The city is very much a tourist destination, but it is not overrun with tourists.

It has a lot to offer on its own merits, and you will be hard-pressed to find another place that feels as authentic and real as Salzburg.

The old town is stunningly beautiful and well worth your time if you have any interest in art or architecture whatsoever.

One of the best parts about Salzburg is that you can get away from the crowds and find your own little slice of heaven.

The Old Town is the perfect place for this. With its cute little shops, cafes, restaurants and bars it has something for everyone.

There are plenty of historic buildings dotted around making it a great place to grab a coffee or beer while sitting outside enjoying some sunshine.

It is a great area to explore and enjoy for free, where you can soak up the culture and atmosphere that the city has to offer.

Free walking tour

Salzburg is a city with rich history and culture. The best way to learn about Salzburg is by taking a free walking tour .

This tour will give you an insight into the historical sites in Salzburg, as well as its heritage. An example of a free walking tour starts at the Spirit of Mozart, one of the most famous artworks in Salzburg.

It also visits other historic sites like Mirabell Palace and Residenzplatz Square. The tour is 1.5 hours long and covers topics such as ‘where was Salzburg founded and why’ and ‘why are there so many Churches in Salzburg’.

If you are interested in learning more about Salzburg and its history, then this free walking tour is highly recommended. The tour is usually conducted by local volunteers who love their city and want to share their passion with others.

Salzburg Card

Salzburg Card is a ticket that gives you free entry to all of the attractions in Salzburg, including the Mozart Residence and the Marionette Museum.

It also gives you discounts and free transportation around the city. You can purchase the cards for 24 hours, 48 hours or 72 hours, depending on the length of your trip and itinerary.

Prices start from 30 euros per person. If you are planning to visit Salzburg during the summer months when the city is packed with tourists, then purchasing a Salzburg Card is highly recommended.

The card itself may not be free but it is a great way to save money during your trip and avoid waiting in line for tickets at various attractions.

Salzburg Museum

This museum is a great place to spend some time, especially if you have kids with you. The exhibits are lighthearted and fun for all ages. The museum has a variety of areas to explore including, Unique Salzburg, The Salzburg Myth, The Panorama Passage and The Art Hall.

The Salzburg Museum is a unique institution within the magnificently restored Neue Residenz, garnering numerous awards as it presents valuable art objects and aesthetic presentations.

Multimedia installations also invite visitors to marvel and learn. This museum has a one-time free admission with the Salzburg card.

Hellbrunn Palace

Built in the 17th century by Prince-Archbishop Markus Sittikus, this palace was primarily used for entertainment purposes. It is now open to the public and offers amazing views.

The gardens are also worth a visit, especially in the summertime. This palace has a one-time free admission with the Salzburg card. The grounds at Hellbrunn Palace are beautiful with scenic gardens that are well worth exploring.

Also popular among visitors are the Trick Fountains, which have been delighting people for centuries with their elaborate displays of water-spouting statues and playful sculptures.

Visits to this historic site can be made daily from April until November. You can spend hours walking around the gardens exploring all of their secrets. There are plenty of benches dotted around so make sure you take your time to stop and rest your legs.

Salzburg Cathedral

One of the cheap things to do in Salzburg includes visiting Salzburg Cathedral. The cathedral was built in the 17th century and its size makes it look like it could have been built today.

A closer look at Salzburg’s cathedral reveals many surprising and exciting details. With its mighty dome and two towers, it leaves an absolutely impressive stamp on the city skyline.

It also boasts a wealth of intricate artwork inside that has captivated visitors for centuries. A conservation fee of €5 is collected for visiting the church, in order to ensure its protection and preservation.

This is reduced to €3.50 with the Salzburg card. This activity may not be free but the conservation fee goes to a good cause and it is well worth the experience that you will receive.

Mirabell Palace

Mirabell Palace was built in 1606 by Prince-Archbishop Wolf Dietrich. The name Mirabell comes from its Italian origin of two words meaning ‘admirable’ and ‘beautiful’.

The palace is located in the old town of Salzburg and is surrounded by a beautiful garden. Today, Mirabell Palace houses offices for the city of Salzburg as well as its mayor.

Many weddings are held in the famous Marble Hall and the whole complex is open to the public free of charge.

The Marble Hall is the most famous room in the palace, with its detailed walls and intricate ceiling. This is a must-see if you are visiting the Palace. Another must-see is the Angel Staircase which is decorated with several cherubs.

Mirabell Gardens

The Mirabell Gardens are a part of the Mirabell Palace and they are a great place to relax, enjoy nature and have a picnic. Scenic points and spots of interest include the Pegasus Fountain, the Dwarf Garden and the Grand Fountain.

Pegasus Fountain is a sculpture of the winged horse which is based on Greek mythology and was created in 1913 by Kaspar Gras. The Grand Fountain was designed by Ottavio Mosto and decorated with 4 groups of figures symbolising the 4 elements: fire, air, earth and water.

The Hedge Theater can be found in the western section of Mirabell Gardens. It is one of the oldest hedge theatres north of the Alps and serves as an outdoor stage during summertime for folk-heritage events and other special occasions. The Dwarf Garden originated during the rule of archbishop Franz Anton Fürst Harrach.

It originally consisted of 28 dwarves made from white Untersberg marble. Now there are only 17 left! It is the oldest garden like this in Europe. Please note that this is closed during winter months.

The Rose Garden is located directly south of Mirabell Gardens, whose ornamental rose beds are a prominent feature and are a breathtaking view to see.

Hohensalzburg Fortress

If you are seeking a free way to get your adrenaline pumping, consider a climb up Hohensalzburg Fortress . This medieval castle was originally built in 1077, the purpose of the fortress was to protect the principality and archbishops from outside threats.

For hundreds of years through countless battles and sieges, the city has never been captured by foreign troops.

Today, it sits on Salzburg’s highest hilltop, 506m above sea level with views that span miles over the Austrian countryside.

The fortress is open all year round and visitors can get there by walking or taking the Funicular Railway from Festungsgasse.

The Hohensalzburg Fortress is one of the largest castles in Europe and arguably the continent’s best-preserved medieval castle.

When you visit the fortress, you will be able to see how its unique location has made it such an important place in history. The view alone will make your trip worthwhile!

Salzburg Festival

Salzburg’s annual festival of opera, music and drama is the world’s most significant. It features classics as well as performances by famous artists and events for younger audiences.

It is held every summer and is one of the oldest and most prestigious festivals in the world.

Salzburg Festival takes place in the months of July/August, with performances taking place at venues across Salzburg and surrounding areas.

The city also becomes a hub for artists during this time, who come from all over the world to perform here.

Salzburg Zoo Hellbrunn

Visit Salzburg Zoo Hellbrunn to marvel at creatures from around the world. With more than 1500 animals and 150 different species, this former animal park is a fascinating place to visit. Every type of creature is represented here, from white rhinos to red pandas.

All continents of the world are covered and the zoo entry is free if you have a Salzburg card. The zoo is located within the Hellbrunn Estate which was completed in 1619.

Today, Salzburg Zoo is committed to creating a modern habitat in which it can display and protect the natural world. The Salzburg Zoo is a great place to spend the day and is one of the best things to do in Salzburg with kids.

Mozart’s Birthplace

In 1756, W. A. Mozart was born in the “Hagenauer Haus” at No. 9 Getreidegasse in Salzburg. Today, this is one of Austria’s most popular museums and a must-see for all Mozart fans.

The birthplace of the famous composer continues to draw Mozart fans and history buffs from around the world.

The museum features a number of exhibits, including the original historic musical instruments used by Mozart as well as letters and manuscripts from his personal collection.

The house itself has been restored to its original state and is considered one of Salzburg’s most important historical buildings.

This constantly evolving museum is a must-see for all Salzburg visitors and is also a great place for families. There is plenty of space for children to run around and enjoy themselves while parents take in the museum exhibits.

Museum of Modern Art

The Museum of Modern Art in Salzburg at the Rupertinum presents temporary exhibitions of international format on 700 m².

This Early Baroque building in the centre of the historic district, with its unmistakable Friedensreich Hundertwasser–designed ‘Tongue Beards’ is an exquisite backdrop for modern art.

In 1983, the building was taken over by public ownership and renamed the ‘Salzburg Museum of Modern Art and Graphic Collection’.

The rooms were adapted to their current use as an outstanding setting for head-turning graphic art and photography. It now houses the Generali Foundation’s art collection which consists of more than 2,100 stunning works by 250 renowned artists.

The Generali Foundation’s extensive archives, library and parts of its collection are open to the public and are free of charge to view.

There is a lot to see and do in the city of Salzburg. There are plenty of free walking tours to enjoy, hundreds of beautiful buildings to admire and exciting museums to learn from.

The city is also filled with great restaurants and cafes to enjoy, as well as many quirky and quaint shops.

There are plenty of places to see and things to do in Salzburg , so you will not be disappointed on your trip! In fact, with so many things to choose from it can be hard to know where to start.

If you purchase the Salzburg card, you unlock the potential to enjoy several free attractions that can make your trip even more enjoyable.

You can use the card to visit some of the most important historical sites in Salzburg and you will also be able to get discounts at many of the city’s museums as well. If you want to save money on your trip, then purchasing a Salzburg Card is a great way to do so!

Recommended cheap tours in Salzburg

• Private Salzburg Scavenger Hunt and Self-Guided Walking Tour
• Salzburg: “The Sound of Music” City Exploration Game
• A taste of Salzburg: An audio tour through the birthplace of Mozart
• Salzburg Oldtown: Sightseeing Walking Tour with Licensed Local Guide
• Salzburg Sightseeing City Cruise on Salzach River
• Pub Crawl Salzburg
• Salzburg City Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
• Lonely Goatherd Bike Tour: Cycle Salzburg’s Surroundings with the Sound of Music
• Salzburg Highlights Tour with Coffee and Cake in Panorama Restaurant

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Sam, a seasoned traveler across four continents and 49 countries, is a leading authority in travel planning. Her website, Travelling King, offers tailored itineraries and expert guides for seamless trips. Sam's expertise in luxury travel, fast travel, and destination guides keeps her at the forefront of the travel community.

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THE 10 CLOSEST Hotels to Free Walking Tour Salzburg

Hotels near free walking tour salzburg, property types, distance from, traveler rating, hotel class.

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• Traveler Ranked Highest rated hotels on Tripadvisor, based on traveler reviews.
• Distance from Free Walking Tour Salzburg See properties located closest to the place of interest first with confirmed availability for your dates from our partners.

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Private Walking Tour Salzburg

In two hours, the Private Walking Tour of Salzburg covers the same sights as the Free Walking Tour. The tour includes all the essentials of Salzburg and prepares you for further explorations.

However, on a private tour of Salzburg, you get to ask more questions and have a more personal experience overall. In addition to the standard private tour, you may specify your interests and desires in the booking form below so that we can create a tailor-made experience.

Who is the Private Walking Tour Salzburg for?

• The Free Walking Tour is for individual travelers and is limited to no more than 25 participants. Therefore, groups of nine or more have to book a private tour with a fixed price of €230,- instead.
• Sophisticated travelers can hire their private tour guide for the most convenient way to see the city. You choose the meeting point, the time, and the places of interest and get your undivided attention.
• No matter if you are traveling alone, with a partner, friends, family, or with a group from school or work with a private tour, we are able to tailor every aspect of the tour to your interests and your pace.

Salzburg Private Tour Highlights

While you could customize the private tour to your needs, we recommend going for our default walking tour. We put a lot of thought into the private walking tour schedule. That way we slightly adapt the plan to your individual group but still visit the most important sights of Salzburg.

Mirabell Garden and Palace

While the Spirit of Mozart is the meeting point for every Free Walking Tour, Mirabell is often the meeting point for private tours. The garden is one of the highlights of Salzburg and the perfect place to meet your tour guide to start your introduction to the city.

Mozart’s Residence

Mozart’s Residence is located on Makartplatz square just outside of Mirabell garden. Makartplatz is where Mozart moved at the age of 17 before he moved to Vienna at 25. The residence is a museum that we see and hear about from the outside.

Makartsteg Footbridge

Makartsteg is the love lock bridge of Salzburg. Here we get a great view of the Salzach river, the city mountains, the fortress, and the old town before we cross the river.

Getreidegasse

Getreidegasse is Salzburg’s most famous street. It’s a shopping street and famous because Mozart’s birthplace, the most well-known sight besides the fortress, is located in Getreidegasse.

University Church

The daily market takes place on the University Square, and the University Church is one of four churches designed by the Austrian baroque architect Fischer von Erlach. The church belonged to the old university, which is located on the same site, hence the name.

Concert Hall

The Salzburg Festival is the most prestigious festival for classical music in the world. While concerts and theater are performed at more than 15 locations, is the concert hall the main performance. There we will not only learn about the history and present of the Salzburg Festival but also about “the Sound of Music” if you have seen the film.

Saint Peter’s Monastery

At the monastery of Saint Peter, we go way back in time. St. Peter is the place where Salzburg was founded. Salzburg was founded in the year 696 and today the monastery is the oldest monastery in the German-speaking area, if not in the whole of Europe north of the Alps.

Franciscan Church

The Franciscan Church is unlike any of the many other churches in Salzburg. It combines a variety of different art styles, from the Romanesque of the Middle Ages to the Neogothic of the 19th century.

Salzburg Cathedral

The Salzburg Cathedral is a must-see and my favorite free-of-charge tourist attraction in Salzburg. Even if the Cathedral is an active church, guided tours are allowed. During our private tours we, depending on group size and circumstances, admire the stunning facade or also visit the inside of the archbishop’s church, the most important sacred building in Salzburg.

Kapitelplatz Square

Kapitelplatz is the square where we get the best view of the Hohensalzburg fortress. That’s where we will talk about the history of the landmark of Salzburg. A visit to the fortress as part of your private tour would of course be possible, but we recommend exploring the fortress on your own later on. on the fortress, there are various museums, viewing platforms, and hidden corners that are best explored with enough time.

Residence Square

Residence square is the main square of the old town of Salzburg. The square derives its name from the two residences of the archbishops that are located there. Both of the residences, the old and the new residence are history museums nowadays.

The Mozart Statue

Mozart is everywhere in Salzburg, but how did that start? He was born in Salzburg, but after his death, most people in Salzburg have forgotten Mozart. Only 50 years after his death the statue was built, the genius remembered and the Mozart cult began. Mozart Square with the statue is one of the most iconic places in Salzburg and the end of most of our walking tours unless otherwise requested.

More Information

• Meeting Point

Salzburg, Austria – various

You get to see the essentials of Salzburg without customizing your tour. Because your private tour guide is fully committed to your group, she or he gets to know you better and can customize along the way. However, if there are any particular interests or any additional sights on your bucket list, please mention them in the additional comments field in your request below.

• When to book?

Because we only know availability for the next three months, we recommend requesting your private tour no more than three months in advance of your planned arrival.

• Accessibility

The tour is wheelchair accessible; however, we kindly request that you please inform us in advance if you will be joining the tour with a wheelchair.

Pets allowed

Price: €230,- per Group

Private tours of Salzburg cost a fixed price of €230,- and are for groups of more than eight people or for solo travelers or couples who want the luxury of a private tour guide.

Reviews of the Free Walking Tour

Important : before you book.

We recommend starting your private tour in the heart of the Old Town to truly immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the city. If you’re staying outside the Old Town or unsure of a specific meeting spot, the main entrance to Mirabell Castle at Mirabellplatz 4 makes for a convenient and picturesque starting point.

• Booking Confirmation

When you request a private tour, please keep in mind that we need some time to find the perfect guide and confirm your booking. While we do our best to accommodate every request, there may be instances where we are unable to find a guide, and your booking might be rejected. Rest assured; we will notify you as soon as possible regarding the status of your booking.

Private Walking Tour Salzburg Booking

Frequently asked questions.

Welcome to the Frequently Asked Questions of the Private Walking Tour Salzburg. You can use this page to inform yourself. If you have a question that is not answered here, please don’t hesitate to  contact us .

Private tours are for groups of up to 25 people. There is no minimum group size. However, the price for private tours is fixed. Therefore, the price per person for a private tour is more inexpensive with a larger group.

The Free Walking Tour is for individual travelers. Groups of nine people or more have to book a private tour. If you are a small group of between nine and twelve people and a private tour is too expensive for you, there are two things you can do. First, you can message me the day before. If it is foreseeable that one of the tours will not be full, you can still participate. If this is not the case, we can talk about adjusting the price so that the cost per person is more affordable.

Sure you can, but a private tour for less than nine people is expensive. If it’s your wish to pay for the luxury of a private tour guide in Salzburg, we are happy to put together a personalized experience for you. Otherwise, we recommend taking a look at the Free Walking Tour schedule. The number of participants on these tours is limited to a maximum of 25 people, which still guarantees a personal experience and allows you to ask as many questions as you like. Public tours are also a great way for individual travelers to meet like-minded people.

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