Looking to plan the perfect Salzburg itinerary? This charming Austrian city is famous for its baroque architecture, classical music heritage, and stunning scenery. Best known as the birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and as a filming location for The Sound of Music, Salzburg offers a mix of culture, history, music, and incredible food.
Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or a few days, this Salzburg itinerary covers the best things to do, day trips, restaurants, cocktail bars, and hotels to help you plan an unforgettable trip
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Best Things to Do on Your Salzburg Itinerary
Hohensalzburg Fortress Tour
One of the highlights of any Salzburg itinerary is visiting Hohensalzburg Fortress, one of the largest and best-preserved medieval castles in Europe.
Perched above the city, the fortress offers incredible views of Salzburg and the surrounding Alps. You can take a funicular to the top or hike up for a scenic walk. Inside the fortress, you’ll find museums and exhibits about Salzburg’s history.
Best of Mozart Concert and Dinner
Because Salzburg is Mozart’s birthplace, attending a classical concert is a must. A Best of Mozart concert and dinner is one of the most memorable experiences you can add to your Salzburg itinerary.
Guests enjoy a traditional Austrian dinner before listening to live musicians perform Mozart’s most famous compositions.
Austrian Apple Strudel Cooking Class
Food lovers should definitely take an Austrian apple strudel class.
During the class, you’ll learn how to stretch the pastry dough paper thin, prepare the apple filling, and bake this classic Austrian dessert from scratch. It’s the perfect skill to take back home with you.
Visit Mirabell Palace
The beautiful Mirabell Palace and gardens are one of the most iconic stops in Salzburg.
The manicured gardens feature statues, fountains, and incredible views of the fortress in the distance. Fans of The Sound of Music will recognize the gardens from the famous “Do-Re-Mi” scene.
Walk Through Petersfriedhof
Another historic stop to add to your Salzburg itinerary is Petersfriedhof.
This peaceful cemetery is known for its ornate iron crosses, flower-covered graves, and dramatic setting beneath towering rock cliffs.
Explore Old Town on a Walking Tour
Explore Altstadt Salzburg, the city’s UNESCO-listed historic center, through a walking tour. An Old Town walking tour will take you past famous landmarks such as:
Salzburg Cathedral
Mozart’s Birthplace
Getreidegasse
The colorful streets and historic buildings make this one of the most beautiful parts of Austria.
Best Day Trips to Add to Your Salzburg Itinerary
Hallstatt
The village of Hallstatt is one of the most picturesque places in Austria and one of the most popular day trips from Salzburg.
Located on a lake and surrounded by mountains, it’s famous for its charming streets and postcard-perfect scenery. Consider taking a tour to make getting there easier.
Sound of Music Tour
A Sound of Music tour is one of the most fun experiences you can include in your Salzburg itinerary.
These tours visit famous filming locations from The Sound of Music including:
Leopoldskron Palace
Hellbrunn Palace
Nonnberg Abbey
Eagle’s Nest
For history buffs, another interesting day trip from Salzburg is Eagle’s Nest, a mountaintop retreat used by Adolf Hitler.
Best Hotels for Your Salzburg Itinerary
Hotel Stadtkrug
Hotel Stadtkrug is a charming boutique hotel. It is a historic building and is within walking distance of major attractions like Mozart’s birthplace and Mirabell Palace. It’s a great choice if you want to stay in the heart of the city.
Radisson Blu Altstadt
Another excellent hotel to consider for your Salzburg itinerary is Radisson Blu Hotel Altstadt.
This historic hotel dates back to the 14th century and offers elegant rooms, river views, and easy access to Salzburg’s top attractions.
Where to Eat in Salzburg
Stadtkrug Salzburg
Stadtkrug Salzburg serves traditional Austrian dishes in a cozy historic setting. Their schnitzel and dumplings are especially popular.
S'Kloane
S’Kloane is a small local restaurant known for authentic Austrian comfort food and a welcoming atmosphere.
Balkan Grill
Balkan Grill Walter is a casual spot famous for its sausage sandwich, one of Salzburg’s most popular street foods.
Cafe Sacher Salzburg
Cafe Sacher Salzburg is the perfect place to try the famous Sachertorte chocolate cake with coffee or tea.
Schatz-Konditorei
Schatz-Konditorei is a cozy pastry shop known for delicious cakes, pastries, and coffee.
Best Cocktail Bars in Salzburg
These two cozy cocktail bars are serving up some of the best cocktails in Salzburg.
- Darwin’s
- Burdock Cocktail Bar
Final Thoughts on This Salzburg Itinerary
Salzburg may be small, but it’s packed with incredible experiences. From fortress tours and Mozart concerts to apple strudel classes and scenic alpine day trips, there’s something for every traveler.
With this Salzburg itinerary, you’ll be able to explore the city’s historic Old Town, enjoy amazing Austrian food, visit nearby alpine villages, and experience the rich musical heritage that makes Salzburg so special.
If you are also visiting nearby Prague, make sure to check out my Prague Travel Guide.