Salzburg
The joke 'If it ain't baroque, don't fix it' is a perfect maxim for Salzburg: the story-book Altstadt (old town) burrowed below steep hills looks much as it did when Mozart lived here 250 years ago. Beside the fast-flowing Salzach River, your gaze is raised inch by inch to graceful domes and spires, the formidable clifftop fortress and the mountains beyond. It's a backdrop that did the lordly prince-archbishops and Maria proud.
Jonathan Stokes for Lonely Planet
- Rudolf Abraham | Aug 11, 2026The Best Swimming Spots and Beaches Around Salzburg
- Kerry Walker | Jul 16, 2026"The Sound of Music" Filming Locations to Visit in Salzburg
- Kerry Walker | Nov 17, 2025The 12 Best Things to Do in Salzburg
- Rosa Kumar | Oct 23, 202516 of the Most Magical Christmas Markets in Austria
Dreaming of Salzburg? Protect your trip
Travel with confidence. Protect your trip and your wallet.
We don’t represent World Nomads, we receive a fee from quotes using this link. This is not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.
Book your Austria trip with Lonely Planet Journeys
See Austria how it's meant to be seen
Planned by local experts and tailored to you, Lonely Planet Journeys handles the logistics so you can just enjoy the trip. Tell us what you want and we'll build your Austria itinerary from scratch, or browse our bookable trips to get inspired.
Top places to visit in Salzburg
Discover the best attractions in Salzburg from must-see sights to unexpected hidden gems.
Travel Guides
Salzburg travel tips from Lonely Planet experts
Find practical guidance from our team of contributors around the world who bring their decades of first-hand travel experience to your next trip.
Best Things to Do
Discover the best things to do in Salzburg – from Mozart concerts to Sound of Music bike rides and Alpine hikes to Habsburg palaces.
Read full article
Things to Know
Make the most of your trip to the vibrant city of Salzburg with tips on what to pack, how to get around, where to find medical help and more.
Read full article
Transportation
The marvelous Austrian city of Salzburg is a breeze to get around, whether you use the train, the bus or your own two feet.
Read full article
Free Things to Do
Get the lowdown on what to see and do in Salzburg for free - from above-the-city strolls to refreshing canal swims.
Read full article
Best Neighborhoods
Compact Salzburg is easy to explore on foot or by bike, so fascinating neighbourhoods are all well within range. These are the best.
Read full article
Day Trips
One glance at Salzburg’s palaces and mountains and it’s love, but the rest of central Austria is worth exploring too. Try these top day trips from Salzburg.
Read full article
Money and Costs
Get the inside scoop on how to see Salzburg on a budget – from Mozart melodies to mountain heights.
Read full article
Get a book. Get inspired. Get exploring.
in partnership with getyourguide
Book popular activities in Salzburg
Lonely Planet may earn a commission from affiliate links on our site. All recommendations and reviews reflect our own independent opinions.

