Un giorno a Salisburgo: l’itinerario perfetto per scoprire la città natale di Mozart

Salzburg is the city of Mozart, has over 150,000 inhabitants, and is the capital of Salzburger Land. The historic center is essentially baroque in style and unfolds along the two banks of the Salzach. In the beautiful tangle of streets, squares, open spaces, small squares, and alleys at the foot of the Hohensalzburg fortress, nestle the Cathedral and the seventeenth-century episcopal palaces, the Franciscan Church, the Abbey of Sankt Peter, the Old Town Hall, museums like the Carolino Augusteum, and the palaces that host the annual and famous music festival.

In the characteristic Getreidegasse, dotted with courtyards and ancient signs, stands the birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, while the residence of his adult years is located on the opposite bank of the river, at the foot of the Kapuzinerberg. On this side are also the Mozarteum, the Castle and the park of Mirabell; while to the south of the city extend the splendid gardens with water features of the Schloss Hellbrunn.

Although the city offers much, it is possible to see the main attractions in just one day if well organized. To help you plan your trip, we have prepared this one-day itinerary in Salzburg that will show you exactly what you can expect to see in 24 hours of visiting.

1-Day Itinerary in Salzburg

You might only need one day to see Salzburg’s main attractions, but that doesn’t mean there’s nothing else to discover. The purpose of this itinerary is to show you how to make the most of your time if it’s limited. With it, you’ll see the highlights of the Old Town and the New City. With more time, you can certainly find other things to see and do in the city, not to mention the nearby locations that will be just as memorable. Let’s move on to the best places to visit in Salzburg, so you’ll have a clear idea of what to do in Salzburg in 1 day.

If you are in a hurry. If you want to save on your trip, we highly recommend purchasing the Salzburg Card. Not only will you have free and unlimited use of public transport, but also free access to all the major attractions in and around Salzburg. This card offers great value for money!

1. Salzburg Old Town

Start your Salzburg exploration in the heart of its Altstadt (Old Town), a baroque gem listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This pedestrian area encloses some of the city’s most charming landmarks, allowing you to fully savor the historic atmosphere that permeates every corner. There is no better place to start your Salzburg visit than in the city’s historic center, which can be easily explored on foot. Following delightful cobblestone streets lined with beautiful architecture, it won’t take long for the charm of the old town to win you over.

Cross the Salzach river over the Staatsbrücke, an iconic stone structure connecting both banks. From here, you can admire the Festung Hohensalzburg, the imposing medieval fortress dominating the cityscape. Continue to Residenzplatz, a vast square surrounded by sumptuous buildings such as the Archbishop’s Residence and Salzburg Cathedral.

Walking through the old town you will soon reach the cluster of squares around the Salzburg Cathedral. Before entering the cathedral, take a quick tour around the building and have a look at Residenzplatz, Mozartplatz, Domplatz and Kapitelplatz. These squares all have a distinctive look and revolve around important landmarks such as the Statue of Mary and the Mozart Monument. Then, it’s time to see the interior of the magnificent baroque Cathedral which has been rebuilt several times since 774.

Another historic center landmark worthy of special mention is the place where the famous composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was born, Salzburg’s beloved son. Mozart was born in Salzburg in 1756 in a house on Getreidegasse known as “Hagenauer Haus”, where the family would live for another 17 years. Today, the Mozart Birthplace is a museum taking visitors not only through his life but also what homes of that era were like.

2. DomQuartier

To truly immerse yourself in culture and history, you’ll want to visit Salzburg’s museum complex known as DomQuartier. The museums are housed in baroque buildings that once belonged to the prince-archbishops of Salzburg, meaning you also get the chance to visit parts of historic monuments like the Cathedral and St. Peter’s Abbey that you otherwise wouldn’t see.

For most people, the big attraction at the DomQuartier is the chance to see the state rooms of the Old Residence. There you can see sumptuous palace rooms and artworks by names like Rembrandt in the Residence Gallery. At the cathedral, you can see precious art at the Cathedral Museum and even access a special terrace that offers beautiful views over the city. Finally, there is the St. Peter’s Museum, which houses artifacts from the oldest German-speaking abbey in the world.

Make sure to book your skip-the-line tickets for the DomQuartier in advance, so you won’t waste your precious holiday time standing in long queues.

3. Mirabell Palace and Gardens

As you cross the Salzach River, take a moment to admire the beautiful views along the riverbank. Continue toward Salzburg New City to admire Mirabell Palace and its exquisite gardens. For a relaxing break from the city bustle, head to the Mirabell Gardens, a true green paradise in the heart of Salzburg. These splendid baroque gardens are famous for their fountains, sculptures, and wonderful tree-lined avenues. Strolling among flowerbeds and enchanting ponds, you can enjoy an oasis of peace and tranquility. Don’t forget to photograph the magnificent Mirabell Palace, once the residence of the prince-archbishops of Salzburg.

The Mirabellgarten is undoubtedly the most popular garden in the city, thanks to its fountains and ornate design. Perhaps the most common reason people visit the Mirabell Gardens is that it was used as a filming location for the classic movie “The Sound of Music.”

For those in a hurry. Salzburg was not only the home of the Trapp family, on which “The Sound of Music” is based, and also the movie’s setting, but it’s also where much of the film was shot. It can be a challenge to visit all the film locations on your own, so many movie fans choose to take a “Sound of Music” tour while in Salzburg. On a tour, you’ll see filming locations beyond the city center like Lake Fuschl and Mondsee Cathedral.

If you still have some time, don’t miss the chance to visit the Hellbrunn Gardens, a vast complex of fountains and water games designed to entertain the archbishops of Salzburg. A truly unique and fun experience!

4. Salzach Riverbank

After exploring the gardens, follow the course of the Salzach River and admire the beauty of its banks. This riverside walk will offer you unique perspectives on the city, with breathtaking views of historic bridges, colorful houses, and snow-capped mountains in the background. If you still have energy, you can choose to rent a boat or canoe and enjoy a peaceful descent down the river, admiring Salzburg from a completely different perspective.

5. Mozart Residence

Mozart is so beloved in Salzburg that there are even two museums dedicated to the classical composer. Near the Mirabell Gardens you’ll find the house where the Mozart family moved from Old Town in 1773. The family lived there for 14 years and today the first-floor apartment houses a museum with objects from the composer’s life including his fortepiano, documents, and portraits. If you want to learn more about the Mozart family and their time in Salzburg, this is the place to go.

6. Kapuzinerberg

Sometimes all you want is a stunning view of the city. In Salzburg, one of the best views is from Kapuzinerberg. From this hill, opposite the Old Town, you get a breathtaking view of the city’s most picturesque monuments. The best part is that the slope is covered by a dense forest, making it the perfect place to immerse yourself in nature and take a break from city life.

What to see in Salzburg and what to do

Salzburg, the birthplace of Mozart, is a true gem of Austria. Rich in history, culture, and natural beauty, it offers an unforgettable experience for every visitor. If you only have one day available, don’t worry: we have created a perfect itinerary to make the most of this wonderful city.

7. The Hohensalzburg Fortress

Among the many splendid monuments of Salzburg, the hardest to miss is the Hohensalzburg Fortress. Located on a hill behind the Old Town, this imposing fortress is particularly well preserved and is the largest in Central Europe. A true symbol of the city, no visit to Salzburg is complete without an up-close visit to this majestic castle. From Hohensalzburg, you can enjoy another wonderful view of the city, while inside you will find several museums. Among these, the main Fortress Museum, as well as more specialized places like the Puppet Museum and the Altes Zeughaus, focused on weapons. To reach the fortress, you can choose from several options:

• Climb on foot, walking through the picturesque Alte Residenzplatz and the historic Burgerwehrstraße.
• Take the famous Festungsbahn, a small funicular that will take you directly to the top.
• Opt for a guided tour, which will reveal all the secrets of this magnificent place.

8. Salzburg Cathedral

After exploring the fortress, it is time to visit the Salzburg Cathedral, one of the city’s most important religious buildings. Built in Baroque style, this architectural masterpiece will take your breath away with its majestic domes, opulent decorations, and spectacular frescoes.

Don’t miss the opportunity to go up to the panoramic terrace, where you can admire a breathtaking view of the city and the surrounding mountains. If you are lucky, you might also attend a bell concert or a solemn mass.

9. The Getreidegasse

After admiring the architectural wonders of Salzburg, it’s time to immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of the Getreidegasse, one of the most picturesque and lively streets in the city. This pedestrian street is dotted with shops, cafes, and restaurants, offering an authentic experience of Salzburg culture.

While strolling along the Getreidegasse, don’t miss the chance to visit Mozart’s birthplace, transformed into a museum dedicated to the musical genius. Here you can discover fascinating details about his life and his immortal music.

10. Residence Square (Residenzplatz)

The Archbishop’s Residence, with its Baroque facade, is a true architectural gem. Inside, you will find richly decorated rooms and an evocative spiral staircase. On the other side of the square, the majestic Salzburg Cathedral towers with its twin towers and magnificent Romanesque portal. End your day in Residence Square, the pulsating heart of Salzburg. This splendid Baroque square is surrounded by historic buildings, including the Residence, the former home of the prince-archbishops. Admire the fountains, statues, and decorated facades, letting yourself be carried away by the lively atmosphere of the square. Here you can watch street performances, taste delicious local dishes, or simply sit at a café and observe the hustle and bustle of the people.

11. Mozart Concert with Dinner

You absolutely cannot come to Salzburg without attending a classical concert; after all, Salzburg is the city of music. After a long day of sightseeing, enjoy a fantastic candlelit dinner prepared according to original historic recipes and a concert with artists in period costumes in the Baroque Hall. Listen to the music of the Salzburg genius Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart while savoring your delicious meal. Tickets for the concert can be purchased here.

12. The Best Time to Visit Salzburg

Salzburg is a city that offers unique experiences in every season, so the best time to visit depends on what you want to experience. If you are looking for mild weather but want to avoid summer crowds, consider a visit in May, September, or October. During these periods, temperatures are pleasant and the city is less crowded compared to the high season from June to August. Spring and autumn can be particularly charming, but given the proximity to the Alps, temperatures may still be a bit cool.

From November to February, Salzburg transforms into an enchanted winter landscape, thanks to a light blanket of snow, making it one of the best winter destinations in Europe. If you visit the city in November or December, you will also have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere of Salzburg’s Christmas markets.

13. How to Get Around Salzburg

With a relatively small city center, getting around Salzburg shouldn’t be a problem. In areas like the Old Town and the New Town, the best way to explore is on foot. Distances in Salzburg are not large, so you won’t have to walk too much to see everything included in this itinerary.

However, some places, like Hohensalzburg Fortress and Kapuzinerberg, are located atop steep hills. There is a funicular connecting Hohensalzburg Fortress with the Old Town. To get around the rest of the city, public transport is available, mainly consisting of buses. Single-ride and day tickets can be purchased at “Trafik” kiosks, vending machines, or directly from the driver. Standard fares start from €2.90. For more information on Salzburg buses, click here.

14. Where to Stay in Salzburg

Salzburg is a relatively compact city, which makes it quite easy to decide where to stay. Since visitors will spend most of their time in the Old Town and New Town, located on both sides of the Salzach River, these are generally the best areas to stay. This way, you will be close not only to the main attractions but also to restaurants, bars, and shops. Alternatively, more peripheral areas like Elisabeth-Vorstadt and the residential district of Maxglan can be valid options, although they require a short walk to reach the city center.

If you are looking for comfort and luxury, the Hotel Bristol Salzburg is definitely your best option. This five-star hotel, located inside a historic villa, blends classic elegance with all the modern comforts expected from a property of its caliber. The hotel complex offers everything from on-site restaurants and lounges to boutiques and even a hairdresser. For a good balance between affordability and amenities, you can consider the Gästehaus im Priesterseminar Salzburg in the New Town. With spacious rooms, a common room with kitchen and laundry facilities, as well as a good free breakfast, this guest house offers excellent value for money.

For other accommodation options in Salzburg, check out our Booking. We constantly offer the best rates and comprehensive service.

Do you have more than 24 hours in Salzburg?

With 24 hours in Salzburg, you will get a great idea of the city and its main attractions. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t spend more time in this fantastic destination if you have the chance. You might choose to continue exploring Salzburg’s attractions, but another option is to see what the surrounding regions of Austria and Germany have to offer. With this in mind, here are some of the best day trips from Salzburg.

15. Hallstatt

You have most likely already seen photos of Hallstatt. It is an incredibly picturesque village located on the shores of a lake amidst mountains southeast of Salzburg. Walking through this charming village, you will be surrounded by old-style alpine houses that will make you try to remind yourself that this is a real place where people actually live. Following the village’s waterfront, you will soon arrive at the classic viewpoint from which everyone takes their photo of the village nestled between the lake and the imposing mountains in the background.

There is much more to experience beyond the village. First, there is the possibility to take a boat ride on the lake and better appreciate the entire region surrounding Hallstatt. Then there is the Skywalk Hallstatt viewing platform located high above the village, accessible via hiking trails or a local funicular. To learn more about the visit, make sure to check our Hallstatt guide. You can book a day tour to Hallstatt here.

16. Hohenwerfen Castle and Eisriesenwelt Ice Cave

If one castle in Salzburg wasn’t enough for you, you will definitely want to make the trip to Hohenwerfen Castle. Situated in the Alps on a hill south of Salzburg, this medieval fortress makes a strong impression the first time you see it. Once you have made the climb up from the town of Werfen about 70 meters below, you can explore the halls of this 900-year-old castle. While there, you can take a tour through various historic rooms, dungeons, the armory, and the torture chamber to get an idea of Hohenwerfen’s history. If the castle seems familiar, you might recognize it from its use in various films and TV shows, including “The Sound of Music” and “Just Married.”

You can also witness the traditional art of falconry in one of the castle’s bird of prey shows featuring falcons, vultures, eagles, and other birds of prey on display. Not far from the castle, another place you can visit near Werfen is the incredible Eisriesenwelt Ice Cave.

17. Königssee

Since you will be so close to Germany, why not take the opportunity to cross the border and visit a magical destination like Königssee. This stunning alpine lake is nestled among the mountains of the Berchtesgaden National Park just a few kilometers from the Austrian border.

The Königssee is the deepest lake in Bavaria, renowned for its incredibly clear, emerald-hued waters. As an outdoor destination, it offers numerous activities. You can take a ride on the lake by electric boat or row by yourself. Cold lovers can even take a plunge into its waters. On land, options abound. You can stroll along the trails bordering the lake or go in search of spectacular waterfalls like the Schrainbachfall. A must-visit spot is the picturesque St. Bartholomew’s Church, located on the lake’s western shore. You can book a day trip to Königssee here.

So here is the ultimate itinerary for Salzburg. As you can see, one day in Salzburg is enough to admire the city’s main attractions. And after your visit, we hope you will agree with us that Salzburg is truly a special urban destination.