Salzburg: Explore the Corners of Old Town’s History and Elegance

Activities:

Fans of The Sound of Music will recognize the lakeside palace, Schloss Leopold Skon, instantly. Art lovers will love the Staircase of Cherubs and the Marble Hall — a dream setting for weddings and concerts. Teens might enjoy reenacting scenes from The Sound of Music in the gardens — a playful, flower-strewn space perfect for Instagram-worthy moments set right on the lake. The beautiful walk from Old Town is worth the trip alone.

Mozart's Birthplace, or Mozarts Geburtshaus, an unassuming yellow townhouse where Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was born in 1756, offers a glimpse into the prodigy’s early life. The museum showcases an array of personal artifacts, including his childhood violin, letters and portraits. All steeped in the rich atmosphere of the 18th century. Note: The museum can feel extremely cramped during peak hours. Visit early to avoid crowds.

DomQuartier, Salzburg is a captivating museum complex in the heart of Old Town. It encompasses the Residenz, Cathedral and St. Peter's Archabbey, offering a journey through 1,300 years of history, art, music and architecture. Wander through the grand halls of the Residenz State Rooms where Salzburg's prince-archbishops once held court. The tour provides breathtaking views from the Cathedral archway terrace and the Residenz Gallery, showcasing masterpieces from Dutch, Italian, Austrian and Austrian artists. Also, located in the South Oratory, the Cathedral Museum houses treasures from 1,300 years of ecclesiastical history.

The city's true character emerges in its less-celebrated spaces. The Friedhof St. Peter Cemetery, made famous by "The Sound of Music”. A tranquil, cinematic escape from Salzburg’s bustling streets, its Baroque tombstones, intricate wrought-iron gates and an atmosphere of ethereal beauty make it a mandatory pilgrimage for cultural connoisseurs. The climb to the ancient caves above offers a touch of adventure and historical intrigue. This cathedral itself is a baroque marvel — its gilded interior and soaring dome will captivate art lovers. Its intricate interior speaks of centuries of spiritual and artistic devotion. Golden light filtering through windows that have witnessed the rise and fall of empires.

Unlike Salzburg's more bombastic baroque churches, the Franziskanerkirche is a masterpiece of architectural restraint. For the traveler weary of tourist crowds and gilded excess, this unassuming Franciscan church, dating back to the 13th century, offers a counterpoint to the city's more ornate religious spaces. Art and architecture lovers will marvel at its preserved medieval elements, and those seeking a moment of peace will find a rare sanctuary in the heart of Salzburg. Tip: Visit during off-peak hours. The church's true magic reveals itself in moments of quiet — when the only sounds are the subtle echoes of centuries of human contemplation.

A climb to the Hohensalzburg Fortress, a medieval sentinel, offers breathtaking panoramas overlooking the city. It was a highlight for us as an adventure (climb the hill or take the funicular). It offers wonderful context for learning about the history of the area. If you time your visit, it is a good escape from the crowds below, and even teens will enjoy the medieval weaponry displays.

A short walk from Old Town, the Mirabell Gardens are a stunning example of baroque landscape design, originally laid out in 1690. Located adjacent to the Mirabell Palace, the gardens are famous for their meticulously maintained flower beds, fountains and statues. Highlights include the Pegasus Fountain, the elegant Grand Parterre and the whimsical Dwarf Garden. The gardens also provide breathtaking views of the Hohensalzburg Fortress.

Nonnberg Abbey: Visit one of Europe's oldest working monasteries, famous for its Gregorian chants and its appearance in "The Sound of Music".

Shopping:

Getreidegasse: Wander through this charming street, known for its quaint shops, historic buildings and the iconic Mozart's Residence.

Susanne Spatt Boutique is a must-visit for fashionistas. This boutique showcases modern interpretations of traditional Austrian dirndls. Pop in for a quick browse even if you’re not buying — the boutique itself is a visual delight.

For the kiddos:

The Steiff Shop offers a wide range of Steiff bears, teddy bears and plush toys. Be forewarned that the owner does not allow touching, but it is worth a peek inside.

For younger children, the Spielzeugmuseum (Toy Museum) is a hands-on museum where kids can play with a variety of toys from different eras. They also have special exhibits and interactive displays that make it a fun experience for teens.

At Edelweiss Cooking School, teens can participate in hands-on workshops, such as making apple strudel and Salzburger Nockerl.

Salzburg Christmas Museum, located on Mozartplatz, is a quirky museum featuring a life-size advent calendar and a collection of historic Christmas objects.

Stop by the Stiftsbackerei St. Peter, the oldest bakery in the city, with a history dating back to the 12th century. Situated next to St. Peter's Abbey, this bakery is known for its wood-fired bread made from natural sourdough, which is still baked in the original wood-fired oven. The charming setting includes a historic water wheel that adds to the authentic experience.

Easy day trips by train:

Innsbruck: Only two hours from Salzburg by train, Innsbruck is a small, charming city that blends historical charm with breathtaking natural beauty. Known as the "Capital of the Alps," it is a lovely destination for both winter sports enthusiasts and summer adventurers. It is well-connected by busses and has an efficient public transport system. Don't miss trying traditional Tyrolean dishes like “Tiroler Gröstl” (a hearty potato and meat dish) and “Kaiserschmarrn” (a shredded pancake dessert).

• Visit the Renaissance castle, Schloss Ambras, set among beautiful gardens. Acquired by Archduke Ferdinand II in 1564, the castle houses an impressive collection of art and historical artifacts.

• Marvel at the iconic landmark, the Golden Roof (Goldenes Dachl), built for Holy Roman Emperor Maximilian I in 1493. The oriel is lavishly decorated and offers stunning views of the city. For better views, climb the nearby clock tower.

• Explore the grand Hofburg palace, originally built as a castle for Archduke Sigmund the Rich in the 15th century. It now serves as the Tyrolean state parliament.

• The ski jump designed by Zaha Hadid, offering panoramic views of Innsbruck and the surrounding mountains, is accessible for visits. Alternatively, also visible from afar from the funicular.

Hallstatt: Hallstatt is another picturesque village in Austria, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Known for its stunning views and rich history, Hallstatt offers some interesting things to explore. It can be reached by bus from Salzburg or by train from nearby stations. Summer and early autumn offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Stroll through the charming village and along the lake shore. The views are simply magical, especially during sunrise or sunset. Look for souvenirs of locally made crafts, such as hand-painted ceramics and salt crystals. Enjoy traditional Austrian dishes and don't forget to try the famous “Hallstatt cheese”.

• For an added adventure, visit the Salzwelten Hallstatt, the world's oldest salt mine. A tour includes a funicular ride up the mountain, followed by a guided exploration of the ancient tunnels.

• Don't miss the “Skywalk”, which offers breathtaking views of the village from 360 meters above.

Werfen: Werfen is home to the Eisriesenwelt, the world's largest ice cave. This natural wonder is an adventure like no other, with dramatic ice formations and stunning Alpine views. The tour includes a cable car ride up the mountain and a walk through the icy caverns. Wear warm clothing and sturdy shoes, as the cave can be cold, and the walk involves climbing stairs. Tickets for the ice cave tour should be booked in advance, as the cave has limited capacity. The village is accessible by bus from Salzburg, and there is a parking area near the cave entrance.

Stepping into the Andreas Hofer Weinstube feels like a journey back in time. With its cozy wooden interiors and a welcoming atmosphere that encourages conviviality. The tavern has been serving guests for over 100 years, making it a beloved local spot. The interior features rustic wooden furnishings, and the walls are adorned with historical artifacts and memorabilia, adding to the tavern's old-world charm. Don't miss their Kasnockn, a hearty dish of pork neck with sauerkraut and dumplings, perfect for those craving authentic Austrian cuisine. Another must-try is the Wiener Schnitzel, a classic Austrian favorite, served with buttered parsley potatoes. The wine list is extensive, featuring a curated selection of Austrian wines, such as St. Laurent Barrique, a rich and flavorful red wine that pairs wonderfully with their hearty dishes, or Steinfeder Grüner Veltliner, a fresh and fruity white wine from the Wachau region. Reservations are recommended, especially for larger groups. The tavern can feel snug, but that's part of its charm. It's a great spot to relax and enjoy a meal away from the bustling Old Town.

The Barenwirt Weinstube, located in the historic district of Mülln, is one of the oldest inns in the city, dating back to 1663. Inside, you'll find cozy wooden furnishings and a welcoming atmosphere, perfect for a relaxing meal. The sunny terrace offers a lovely view of the river Salzach and the Kapuzinerberg hill. They are known for their Backhendl (fried chicken), often hailed as the best in Austria, and the hearty Kasnocken (cheesy dumplings). For dessert, try the fluffy Salzburger Nockerl. Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends.

The Restaurant Herzl offers a charming blend of rustic charm and contemporary elegance. Inside, you'll find cozy wooden furnishings, and warm lighting. The restaurant is known for its heartfelt hospitality and delicious Austrian cuisine with a modern twist. Their Nürnberger Bratwurst is a delicious sausage served with sauerkraut, and local trout are also highly recommended.

Gashof Goldgasse, of the same hotel, feels like a cozy Austrian ski town Stube. It offers locally sourced ingredients, high-end service, and is one of the best in town. It also offers a memorable breakfast with Alpine-inspired delicacies, hearty bread and delicate spreads. (Reservations are essential — a hallmark of all exceptional Salzburg dining.

Café Sacher, located in the heart of Salzburg, is more than your every-day coffee house. Known for its elegant décor with red velvet banquettes and sparkling chandeliers, the café's walls are adorned with photos of famous personalities, reflecting its reputation as a hub for celebrities. Café Sacher Salzburg is part of the prestigious Sacher Hotel group, which began with the original Hotel Sacher in Vienna in 1876. Today, visitors flock to Café Sacher Salzburg to relax with a view of the river while they indulge in the world-famous “Original Sacher-Torte”, a delectable chocolate cake with a layer of apricot jam, topped with dark chocolate icing. The café also offers a variety of Austrian delicacies, from savory dishes to sweet treats like Salzburger Nockerl (a traditional sweet meringue soufflé).

Cafe Tomaselli, Austria's oldest coffee house, is less a cafe and more a living cultural institution- replete with servers in dinner jackets, even in 100-degree heat. Founded in 1705, and still family-owned, Tomaselli has hosted everyone from Mozart to Austrian aristocrats. The coffee arrives like a carefully composed performance. Teens will surely be drawn to its long list of ice cream bowls and its shelves of desserts. Art lovers will appreciate the meticulously preserved inlays, paintings and wood-paneled interiors, a living museum of design and social history. Tip: This location is in the middle of a tourist haven, so a wait and a wallet are required. Nab an outdoor seat to soak in Salzburg’s lively atmosphere while sipping expertly brewed coffee. It is an especially popular spot during the Salzburg Festival, so reservations are recommended. Try an einspanner or mélange and a nockerl slice for a true Salzburgian experience.

For a more down-to-earth coffee house experience, on the back side of Salzburg's Old Town you will find Hotel Melanie Coffeehouse. It is a serene urban retreat with a small outdoor area, and a modern flair on décor. It is the kind of hidden gem that transforms a simple coffee break into a genuine travel memory. Perfect for those seeking an authentic slice of Salzburg beyond the tourist trail.

A refreshing departure from Salzburg’s classical facade, Darwin’s Bar blends eclectic decor with a casual, lively vibe. My teen loved their modern playlist and casual atmosphere. Drinks are expertly crafted and worth multiple rounds, especially their "Porn Star"—a cocktail of passionfruit puree, vanilla vodka and a shot of prosecco. It is also a popular place for a Basilikum Spritz and Mandarin Mojito or espresso martini.