Exploring Salzburg's Best Sights In 48 Hours

what to see in salzburg austria in 2 days

Salzburg, Austria, is a gem of a city that captures the spirit of the Italian Renaissance in Central Europe. With its impressive castles, Baroque architecture, and medieval windy roads, Salzburg has a lot to offer. Here is a suggested itinerary to help you make the most of your 2-day trip to this beautiful city.

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Mozart's birthplace and residence

Salzburg, Austria, is known worldwide as the birthplace of Mozart. The Mozart family lived in an apartment on the third floor of the "Hagenauer Haus" at No. 9 Getreidegasse from 1747 until 1773. Mozart was born there in 1756 and lived in the house for most of his youth. Today, Mozart's birthplace is a museum and one of the most visited in Austria. Visitors can see a miniature violin Mozart received at age 6, intricate set designs from productions of his operas, and an immersive installation exploring his “Jupiter” Symphony, his 41st and last. The admission fee is €15, or free with a Salzburg Card.

In 1773, the Mozart family moved to a spacious eight-room apartment at No. 8 Makartplatz, now known as the Mozart Residence. They lived there until 1787. Mozart himself moved out in 1781. The Mozart Residence was reconstructed after World War II and reopened in 1996. It now houses a museum where visitors can see Mozart's pianoforte, original documents, and portraits. The exhibition provides a rich and diverse Mozart experience, with a multi-vision show, rotating exhibitions, concerts, and talks. The admission fee is €15 for adults, €4.50 for children aged 6-14, and free for children under 6. A combined ticket for the Residence and Birthplace is €23 for adults and €6 for children aged 6-14.

In addition to visiting Mozart's Birthplace and Residence, fans of "The Sound of Music" can take a walking tour of Old Town Salzburg, including the in-town movie locations. The Nonnberg Abbey, a beautiful hillside cloister, is a pilgrimage site for fans of the film, as the real-life Maria was a novice there before joining the von Trapp household. Another highlight of Salzburg is the Altstadt (Old Town), where you can find traditional Austrian dressmakers and elegant coffee houses like Tomaselli, which has been in business since 1703. For a modern specialty coffee experience, try 220Grad Rupertinum or its sister cafe, 220Grad, located close to the Salzburg Festival complex.

When planning a two-day trip to Salzburg, it is recommended to spend the first day exploring Old Town and the second day renting a bike to see the sights just south of the town, including the Sound of Music film locations and the trick fountains at Hellbrunn Palace. A traditional dinner at the Stieglkeller Restaurant, followed by drinks at the Augustiner Brewery, is a great way to cap off the first evening of your trip.

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Old Town Salzburg and the Sound of Music tour

Salzburg, Austria, is a gem of a city, known for its Baroque architecture and Renaissance spirit. The city is also famous as the birthplace of Mozart and the setting for the iconic movie, 'The Sound of Music'.

Old Town Salzburg

The Old Town of Salzburg is a must-see when visiting the city. Start your day with a walking tour of the historic streets, taking in the impressive Baroque architecture and Renaissance charm. Make sure to visit Mozart's Birthplace, located in the heart of the Old Town, and the Mozart Residence, just outside the southern end of the Mirabell Gardens. If you're a music enthusiast, don't miss the Salzburg Marionette Theatre for a unique cultural experience.

For stunning views of the city and the Austrian Alps, climb to the top of the Recturm Tower at Hohensalzburg Fortress. This iconic fortress dates back to the 11th century and is one of Europe's most impressive castles. Explore the castle's museums, including the Fortress Museum and the Prince's Chambers, and wander the castle grounds.

The Sound of Music Tour

'The Sound of Music' movie locations are a major draw for tourists visiting Salzburg. You can take a guided tour to explore the picturesque filming locations and learn about the true story that inspired the film. Here are some key locations to visit:

  • Mirabell Gardens and Pegasus Fountain: Dance along to 'Do-Re-Mi' at the beautiful Mirabell Gardens, where Maria and the children danced in the movie.
  • Nonnberg Convent/Monastery: Pass by the Nonnberg Convent, where Maria was a novice before becoming a governess to the Trapp children.
  • Schloss Leopoldskron: Enjoy the view of Schloss Leopoldskron from across the lake. This palace served as the Trapp family's home in the film.
  • Hellbrunn Palace: Visit Hellbrunn Palace, known for its famous pavilion scene and trick fountains.
  • St. Gilgen/Wolfgangsee: Check out the opening scene of the movie, filmed at St. Gilgen on Lake Wolfgang.
  • Hohensalzburg Fortress: This fortress is also part of the 'Sound of Music' tour, offering breathtaking views of the city and surrounding landscapes.

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Hohensalzburg Fortress

Salzburg, Austria, is known for being the birthplace of Mozart and the setting of the famous musical film, 'The Sound of Music'. However, one of the city's most impressive attractions is the Hohensalzburg Fortress, a medieval fortress and one of the largest castle complexes in Central Europe. Perched atop the Festungsberg mountain at an altitude of 506 metres, the fortress offers a breathtaking 360-degree panoramic view of the city and its surroundings.

The Hohensalzburg Fortress was built in 1077 by Archbishop Gebhard von Helfenstein, with the original design being a basic bailey with a wooden wall. Over the centuries, the fortress grew and evolved, with various additions and expansions made by successive archbishops. By 1500, under Archbishop Leonhard von Keutschach, the fortress took on its present appearance. The fortress was designed to protect the principality and the archbishops from enemy attacks, and it successfully withstood siege during the German Peasants' War in 1525.

The interior of the fortress is just as impressive as its exterior. The fortress is home to several museums, including the Fortress Museum, which showcases exhibits on courtly life led by the prince-archbishops. The Marionette Museum and the Museum of the Rainer Regiment also offer visitors a glimpse into the past. The historic armoury, located on the third floor, features an interactive exhibition on suits of armour and weapons. The Princes' Chambers, consisting of the Princes' Hall, the Golden Chamber, and the Golden Hall, are beautifully furnished and have remained unchanged since the 16th century. The Magic Theatre, located on the upper level, adds a touch of innovation to the historic site.

The Hohensalzburg Fortress is easily accessible via the Festungsbahn funicular railway, which has been in operation since 1892. The fortress offers a variety of guided tours, including atmospheric evening tours, family-friendly tours, and special tours for senior citizens. The site also hosts cultural events throughout the year, such as concerts and an Advent market in the castle courtyard. With its rich history, impressive architecture, and stunning views, the Hohensalzburg Fortress is a must-see destination for visitors to Salzburg.

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Traditional Austrian food and drink

Salzburg is a beautiful city in Austria, known as the birthplace of Mozart and the setting for the iconic movie, 'The Sound of Music'. Here is a suggested itinerary for experiencing the best of Salzburg's food and drink, along with some traditional Austrian dishes and beverages to try during your visit.

Day 1:

Start your day with a visit to Mozart's Birthplace on Getreidegasse, where you can see a miniature violin Mozart received at age six and explore his connection to the city. After this, head to the Old Town Salzburg for a walking tour, including the High Fortress and other Mozart-related sites. Enjoy a coffee and cake break at Tomaselli, an elegant coffee house dating back to 1703. In the evening, have dinner at Saint Peter's Restaurant, which claims to be Europe's oldest restaurant, and offers sophisticated dishes in historic rooms. End your night with drinks at the Augustiner Brewery, which has a rich history dating back to 1621.

Day 2:

Begin your day with a traditional Austrian breakfast of pretzels (Brezen), which can be found at many bakeries throughout the city. Then, rent a bike to explore the Sound of Music film locations just south of Old Town. In the afternoon, visit the Stiegl Brewery, which opened in 1492, or the Hangar 7 Museum at the airport. For dinner, head to the Stieglkeller Restaurant, located at the base of the High Fortress, to enjoy traditional Austrian cuisine while taking in stunning views of Old Town and the Cathedral at sunset.

Now, let's delve into some traditional Austrian food and drink to indulge in during your time in Salzburg:

Food:

  • Wiener Schnitzel: This is one of Austria's most iconic dishes. It is made with thin cutlets of veal, lightly coated in breadcrumbs, and fried in butter, lard, or vegetable oil until golden brown. It is typically served with a wedge of lemon and sides like potato salad or French fries.
  • Vienna Sausage: A staple street food in Austria, the Vienna Sausage is slow-smoked, slender, and packed with flavour. It is often served with bread and a side of mustard or horseradish.
  • Tafelspitz: A classic Viennese dish, Tafelspitz is made by boiling veal in a spicy broth with root vegetables. It is traditionally served in separate courses, starting with the broth as an appetizer, followed by the beef, and vegetables as the main course.
  • Apfelstrudel: This sweet, flaky pastry lined with apple filling is a beloved dessert in Austria. The apple filling is spiced with cinnamon and sugar and often includes raisins.
  • Zillertaler Krapfen: A specialty from the Zillertal Valley, these treats have a savoury grey cheese filling in a crispy shell.
  • Schweinebraten: A classic Austrian dish perfect for celebrations, Schweinebraten is oven-roasted pork served with bread dumplings and sauerkraut.

Drink:

  • Beer: Austria has a variety of beers from local breweries, including popular names like Stiegl, Ottakringer, Egger Bier, and Zillertal Bier.
  • Wine: Eastern Austria is known for its wine region, producing exquisite Riesling and Veltliner wines.
  • Almdudler: This soft drink, flavoured with alpine herbs, is considered the national beverage of Austria.

With its rich culinary traditions and diverse influences, Austria offers a delightful array of dishes and beverages for visitors to savour. During your two days in Salzburg, be sure to indulge in these local specialties to get a true taste of Austrian culture and hospitality.

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The Museum of the Art of the Lost Generation

Salzburg, Austria, is world-renowned as the birthplace of Mozart and the setting of the classic film 'The Sound of Music'. However, there is much more to this beautiful city. If you're planning to spend two days in Salzburg, here is a suggested itinerary for your trip, including a detailed look at 'The Museum of the Art of the Lost Generation'.

This unique, privately-run, non-profit museum, based on the Böhme Collection, showcases the works of early 20th-century artists who were persecuted and discriminated against by the Nazis because of their art, religion, or modern styles. The Lost Generation, a term coined by art historian Rainer Zimmermann, refers to artists who were ahead of their time but were suppressed, ostracised, and denounced as "degenerate" by the National Socialist regime. Many of the artists featured in the museum were Jewish, and their works have been rescued from obscurity and preserved for future generations.

The museum currently holds around 450 extraordinary artworks, including paintings, drawings, and sculptures. Discover the radiant "Portrait of Mela Kempinski" by Jewish artist Eugen Spiro, completed in 1933 before he fled Germany. Explore the vivid still lifes and outdoor scenes by Luise Deicher, one of the first women to study at the Royal Academy of Art in Stuttgart, Germany. The museum also features works by artists who studied under famous teachers of the time, such as Max Liebermann, Max Beckmann, and Henri Matisse.

By visiting this museum, you will have the opportunity to learn about the lives and struggles of these artists, who, despite their challenges, made significant contributions to cultural history. The English-language catalogue is beautifully illustrated and features unique artworks that cannot be found elsewhere, making it a must-visit destination during your time in Salzburg.

Other Suggested Attractions in Salzburg

In addition to the museum, here are some other recommended places to visit during your 2-day stay:

  • Old Town Salzburg: Wander through the charming streets of the Altstadt (Old Town), including the iconic Getreidegasse alley.
  • Mozart's Birthplace and Residence: Visit the apartment where Mozart was born in 1756 and see the Mozart Residence, where his family moved when he was 17.
  • St. Peter Stiftskulinarium: Dine at what claims to be Europe's oldest restaurant, offering sophisticated dishes and a historic atmosphere.
  • Café Culture: Indulge in "kaffee und kuchen" (coffee and cake) at traditional coffee houses like Tomaselli or modern cafes like 220Grad Rupertinum.
  • The Sound of Music Tour: Follow the famous film's locations, including the Nonnberg Abbey and the Pferdeschwemme, a 17th-century horse pond.
  • Salzburg State Theatre: Admire the grand painted ceiling of this 19th-century playhouse, recently renovated to its former glory.
  • Day Trips: If you have an extra day, consider a side trip to nearby Hallstatt, Berchtesgaden, or Werfen for a full-day exploration.

Frequently asked questions

Some must-see attractions in Salzburg include Mozart's birthplace, the Museum of the Art of the Lost Generation, the DomQuartier, the Pferdeschwemme, the Salzburg State Theatre, and the Hohensalzburg Fortress.

Recommended restaurants and cafes in Salzburg include Saint Peter's Restaurant, the Stieglkeller Restaurant, Merkel und Merkel, the Augustiner Brewery, and Tomaselli's.

Some recommended day trips from Salzburg include Hallstatt, Berchtesgaden, and Werfen.

A recommended walking tour in Salzburg is the Old Town Walking Tour, which includes the High Fortress and Mozart sights, as well as the Sound of Music Movie Tour locations. Another recommended walk is from Nonnberg to Festung Hohensalzburg along the Hohe Weg (Festungsgasse), which offers great views of the city.

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