Best museums in Salzburg

Mozart’s Birthplace (Mozarts Geburtshaus)

The famous composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was born in 1756 at Getreidegasse 9. He lived here until 1773.

In the early 20th century, the Salzburg Mozarteum Foundation bought the house to turn it into a museum. It opened to visitors in 1941.

The museum’s collection includes personal items of Mozart’s family, such as instruments, manuscripts, and letters. The exhibitions showcase Mozart’s childhood piano and violin, as well as his first compositions written as a child. The museum also hosts various temporary exhibitions.

Mozart’s Residence (Mozart-Wohnhaus)

The residential building on the other side of the Salzach River also functions as a museum. Mozart lived here from 1773 to 1787, and it was one of the most modern and prestigious buildings in the city at the time.

The three-story building contains several rooms furnished with the Mozart family’s original furniture and personal items. Inside, you can find Mozart’s piano, other instruments, manuscripts, scores, and objects that provide insight into the family’s daily life.

There is a combined ticket that allows entry to both the birthplace and this residence. All information here!

The House of Nature (Haus der Natur)

The museum showcases the world of natural sciences and technology, highly recommended for children.

The museum was created by Eduard Paul Tratz, an enthusiastic naturalist, and Eduard Richter, a geologist. Initially, the museum’s aim was to present local natural treasures, but they gradually expanded the collection and exhibition areas to include global natural science and technology topics. Today, it functions as a modern, interactive museum.

Visitors can learn about local and global wildlife, geological processes, the functioning of the human body, as well as the basics of physics and astronomy. A prominent part is the aquarium and terrarium showcasing live animals, where various aquatic and terrestrial creatures can be observed. In addition, the museum has a space research section that presents the mysteries of space and astronomy.

All information here!

Toy Museum (Spielzeug Museum)

This special museum showcases the evolution and role of toys in different eras.

The museum was established in 1978 by Friedrich Bartenstein, who passionately collected toys of historical and cultural significance. Since then, the museum has continuously expanded and now maintains one of the largest collections of its kind in Europe.

The museum’s collection is extremely diverse, containing more than 5,000 toys from the Middle Ages to modern times. These include traditional wooden toys, dolls, trains, cars, board games, and many other types of toys. Special attention is given to mechanical toys and vintage toy cars.

All information here!

Salzburg Museum of Modern Art (Museum der Moderne Salzburg)

The museum focuses on 20th and 21st-century fine arts.

It is located at two sites: one opened in Mönchsberg in 2004, the other has been operating in the Rupertinum building since the 1980s. The Mönchsberg building is very impressive: built on top of a rock, made of marble and glass.

Its collection covers the areas of painting, sculpture, graphics, photography, and video art. In addition to its permanent collection, the museum organizes numerous temporary exhibitions showcasing the latest trends and movements in modern and contemporary art.

The museum places particular emphasis on experimental and innovative art forms, as well as works dealing with social and political issues.

All information here!

Museum St. Peter Salzburg

The museum is located in the famous St. Peter Monastery, founded in the 7th century, and is one of the most important religious and cultural centers of the city.

Its interior should also be highlighted. We can see decorated ceilings, frescoes, and rich carvings.

Its collection encompasses religious art and material memories of monastic life. The exhibited objects include relics associated with saints, medieval manuscripts, paintings, sculptures, liturgical instruments, and ecclesiastical vestments. Among the museum’s special pieces are early medieval scriptures and gilded liturgical objects.

All information here!

Christmas Museum (Salzburger Weihnachtsmuseum)

The creation of the museum is the result of the work of a passionate collector, Ursula Kloiber, who collected Christmas-related objects and decorative elements for decades.

Her collection is impressive, consisting of thousands of pieces, ranging from the mid-19th century to the present day. The exhibited objects include traditional Christmas decorations, handmade nativity scenes, angel figures, old Christmas cards, and many other Christmas memorabilia.

The museum pays special attention to old Austrian and German Christmas traditions, showcasing the characteristic Christmas customs and decoration techniques of different regions.

All information here!

Marionette Museum

Located in the Hohensalzburg Fortress, it offers insight into the special world of puppetry.

Visitors can learn about the history and techniques of marionette art and try manipulating marionette puppets themselves. One of the most interesting parts of the museum is the miniature theater, where we can see behind the scenes of marionette performances.

The exhibition displays both old and modern marionettes, including famous figures known from Mozart’s operas and other classical works. The exhibited pieces also showcase the history of the Salzburg Marionette Theater, which is world-renowned for its performances.

All information here!

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The city is often called Mozartstadt, as Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was born here and spent more than half of his short life here. With the first mention of an archbishop’s city judge (originally around 1120-30), Salzburg can be considered the oldest city in present-day Austria.

It is famous for its Baroque architecture, significant and rich history, and due to its special location, it is also referred to as the Gateway to the Alps and the Rome of the North. Because of these, in 1997, the historic center of Salzburg became a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Its most significant cultural event is the Salzburg Festival (Salzburger Festspiele), which has been continuously held since 1920 – except for a few years during World War II. The festival starts at the end of July every summer and lasts for five weeks.

Salzburg attractions

Hohensalzburg Fortress

One of Europe’s largest medieval castles towers 506 meters above Salzburg’s city center.

The fortress has stood since the 11th century, and in the 16th century, the world’s oldest funicular, the Reisszug, was added. In the second half of the 19th century, it was renovated and has been operating as a tourist attraction since 1892. To this day, it welcomes visitors as one of Europe’s best-preserved castles.

The fortress hosts various events throughout the year, and during Advent weekends, Christmas markets featuring local craftsmen’s work are held.

All information here!

Residenzplatz

One of the most significant squares in Salzburg. The square is an excellent example of Baroque architecture, lined with beautiful, historic buildings. Its most beautiful building is the cathedral.

In the center is the famous Residenzbrunnen, a grand Baroque fountain decorated with horses and mythological figures. On one side of the square stands the massive Salzburg Residence, where the archbishops of Salzburg once lived.

Salzburg Cathedral

The cathedral of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Salzburg, dedicated to Saint Rupert of Salzburg and Saint Vergilius.

The Baroque-style church is 101 meters long, with a 69-meter transept. The tower is 81 meters high, the dome is 71 meters, and the central nave is 32 meters. The characteristic clover-shaped ambulatory is topped by the dome. The church has room for 10,000 people.

The monumental building was created by Italian architect Santin Solari in the early 17th century. The cathedral had a significant impact on later German church architecture.

Getreidegasse

The city’s most popular street, which was also a famous commercial center in the past.

Its narrow, winding streetscape and tall, narrow houses are typical of the Salzburg Baroque style. Some buildings date back to medieval times, with characteristic arched vaults and slender towers.

The street is filled with many small shops, boutiques, and cafes. Traditional signs symbolizing various shops and professions can still be seen on many buildings.

Mozart Square

Mozart’s statue stands in the square near Residenzplatz.

The bronze statue was erected in 1842, designed by Ludwig Schwanthaler. The two Mozart brothers who were still alive at the time, Karl Thomas and Franz Xaver, were present at the unveiling.

Mirabell Palace

One of the most beautiful buildings in Salzburg, which is also a famous cultural center.

It was built in 1606 by Archbishop Wolf Dietrich von Raitenau for his mistress, Salome Alt. Originally known as Altenau Castle, it was later renamed Mirabell, which means wonderful in Italian. The current Baroque-style appearance was designed by Lukas von Hildebrandt in the early 18th century.

The garden belonging to the palace is also wonderful. It’s an excellent example of Baroque garden architecture: with statues, flower beds, and the famous Pegasus fountain.

Marko-Feingold-Steg

This pedestrian bridge connects the old town with the part across the river.

The bridge also serves as a viewing platform: it offers a wonderful view of the city center and the fortress towering above it. Additionally, thousands of locks hang on the railings and wires, so don’t forget to bring one! 🙂

Capuchin Monastery

It stands on a hill on the opposite bank of the Salzach, facing the old town.

The complex was built at the end of the 16th century and has since been home to the monks of the Capuchin order. The monastery is one of the most important centers of the order in Austria.

It’s a popular destination not only for locals but also for tourists. From the top of the hill, there’s a breathtaking view of the city, especially the historic old town.

St. Sebastian’s Cemetery

Located close to the Mirabell Palace, this small but significant cemetery is one of the most important in the city.

Founded in 1512, it’s distinguished by its Renaissance-style arcaded tombs. The central part of the cemetery is the Baroque-style St. Sebastian’s Chapel, designed by Gabriel von Hackl.

Many famous residents of the city are buried here, including several members of Mozart’s family, such as his father and wife.

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It is bordered by Germany and the Czech Republic to the north, Slovakia and Hungary to the east, Slovenia and Italy to the south, and Switzerland and Liechtenstein to the west.

Best places in Austria

Schönbrunn Palace (Vienna)

Near Vienna’s city center, Schönbrunn Palace and its gardens are Austria’s most visited monuments and attractions.

Built in the 17th century, this Baroque palace was commissioned by the widow of Ferdinand II, Empress Dowager Eleonora, thus named Schönbrunn.

Almost entirely destroyed during the Turkish invasion, it became a central structure under Maria Theresa’s reign, preserving its appearance from that era.

Out of its several hundred rooms, the imperial family’s apartments are the most spectacular open to the public.

Vienna attractions

Best museums in Vienna

Burgenland’s Castles and Thermal Baths

Not highlighting just one place or attraction here, but multiple attractions in the region along the Hungarian border.

Burgenland boasts several beautifully situated castles, with Forchtenstein Castle (Fraknó) being perhaps the most renowned. The castle, rising above the village, is notable for its impressive exhibits and views.

Due to its proximity to the Hungarian border, there are numerous thermal baths. Just a few kilometers away, you can stumble upon the Sonnentherme in Lutzmannsburg.

Hallstatt

Perhaps the most famous rural location in Austria, this small town is popular for its stunning location and has been part of UNESCO’s World Heritage since 1997.

Hallstatt is located in the Salzkammergut region, on the southwestern shore of Lake Hallstatt, north of the Dachstein mountains. Some houses are built on steep slopes, others on piles driven into the lake bed.

The town and its surroundings can be viewed from the Skywalk Hallstatt viewing platform, which is accessible by funicular but is also worth hiking up to, as you pass a beautiful waterfall on the way.

Anyone who’s visited will likely call Hallstatt the most beautiful place in Austria.

Grossglockner High Alpine Road (Grossglockner Hochalpenstrasse)

Austria’s highest peak, Grossglockner, stands at 3798 meters, under which you can drive up to an altitude of 2500 meters.

The protected Grossglockner High Alpine Road, spanning 48 kilometers, connects the towns of Heilingenblut and Fusch.

This serpentine road is rightly considered one of Austria and Europe’s most beautiful panoramic routes. There are several stopping points and parking areas along the route, each worth a stop for the breathtaking views.

One of the most beautiful spots can also be approached from here. The Kaiser-Franz-Jozefs-Höhe viewpoint offers a fantastic view of the Grossglockner and Pasterze Glacier. A statue of Franz Joseph is also here, as the emperor himself visited this spot.

The road is toll-based and closed in bad weather.

Salzburg

Located on the Austrian-German border along the Salzach River, Salzburg is known for its lush greenery, significant baroque architecture, and as the gateway to the Alps.

Often referred to as Mozartstadt, it’s the birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, who spent more than half of his short life here.

Its traditions and history are reflected in Austria’s oldest tunnel (Sigmundstor), Central Europe’s largest intact medieval military building (Festung Hohensalzburg), and the world’s oldest preserved funicular railway (Reisszug).

Salzburg attractions

Best museums in Salzburg

Lake Constance

Located in Austria’s westernmost state, Vorarlberg, on the Austrian-German-Swiss border, Lake Constance is the third-largest lake in Central Europe after Lake Balaton and Lake Geneva.

Though only a small portion belongs to Austria, the lakeside city of Bregenz is worth a visit.

It’s popular among tourists and cyclists. The approximately 170 km lake circuit attracts many for both the challenge and the stunning scenery.

Lake Constance and surroundings attractions, programs

Wachau

This 30-kilometer-long valley along the Danube, between Melk and Krems an der Donau in Lower Austria, can be considered the Austrian version of the Danube Bend.

The Wachau cultural landscape is part of UNESCO’s World Heritage. The area’s natural environment, secular and ecclesiastical architecture (castles, monasteries, churches, residential buildings) preserves its medieval character and showcases some of Austria’s finest Baroque architecture.

The most impressive architectural sight is Melk Abbey, where monks have lived for over 900 years. It’s the largest Baroque building of its kind in Austria.

Wachau is also popular among cyclists, with a dedicated bike path for visitors.

Graz

Austria’s second-largest city, Graz, has its historic center and Schlossberg listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

The city center is particularly beautiful, well-preserved, and its development can be traced back to Gothic times.

The focal point is the Schlossberg area and its most famous landmark, the Clock Tower (Uhrturm). Its main square is also impressive, housing several palaces.

Not just the city center is worth exploring. The Eggenberg Palace in the city’s west is Styria’s most significant Baroque castle. Its excellently preserved interiors and extensive, spectacular park elevate it among Austria’s most valuable cultural treasures.

Graz attractions

Wörthersee

One of Austria’s large lakes, Wörthersee is the largest in Carinthia’s lake region, located in the Klagenfurt Basin, at the foot of the Karawanks mountain range.

Its fame is enhanced by the A2 motorway running alongside, a major route towards Italy. From a parking area along the motorway, there’s a splendid view of the lake and surrounding mountains.

The lake’s shores have developed a Mediterranean-like microclimate, making it a popular bathing paradise. Despite its depth, the lake’s upper layers warm up to 28 °C in summer.

Bad Gastein

Located among the High Tauern mountains, this town attracts tourists for its thermal baths and ski slopes.

Its unique location, with its center developed alongside steep slopes near the Gastein Waterfall, gives it a city-like atmosphere with narrow, steep streets and limited buildable areas.

It’s also popular in summer, as several hiking trails are available in the vicinity.

Krimml waterfalls

In the Hohe Tauern National Park, near the Italian border, lies Austria’s highest waterfall.

The waterfall’s three stages start from an altitude of 1470 meters, with the upper stage at 140 meters, the middle stage at 100 meters, and the lower stage at 140 meters, totaling 380 meters in height!

Easily accessible via a developed tourist path that’s 4 km long with 10 viewing platforms. It’s about a 10-minute walk to the waterfall’s lower stage, and the uppermost point of the path can be reached in about 1 hour and 15 minutes.

Innsbruck

The capital of Tyrol province, Innsbruck, is an excellent starting point for excursions in the Alps. It’s a prime location for skiers and hikers.

Situated along the Inn River, this city is close to Italy and Germany, making it an important hub in Western Austria.

Innsbruck attractions, museums, weather

Hochosterwitz

One of Klagenfurt’s symbols is the castle standing on a 175-meter high dolomite rock.

It’s best to walk up, as the journey involves passing through 14 large gates to reach the castle’s core. The upper castle, a separate fortification, has gates made of red sandstone and green slate, adorned with white limestone and marble, showcasing remarkable examples of Mannerist architecture.

Kufstein

Located in the valley of the Inn River, on the border with Germany, it is notable for the white castle that towers above the city.

The 13th-century castle became significant during the reign of Emperor Maximilian I. In 1512, he fortified the castle, during which the Kaiserturm (Emperor’s Tower) was built, with walls 4-8 meters thick, capable of withstanding any siege of that era. One of its main attractions is its organ; the music can be heard up to 15 km away through the open windows of the tower. It is played every noon.

Klagenfurt

The city, located at the eastern end of Lake Wörth, is the capital of Carinthia. It is a popular tourist destination with its historical old town and cultural institutions.

The cathedral is a prominent building in the city center. The St. Egidius Cathedral is a wonderful mix of late Gothic and Baroque styles. It is telling that there are about twenty castles in the city. Among those open to the public, the most famous is the Maria Loretto Castle, located on the shore of Lake Wörth.

Among its many museums, the Carinthian State Museum stands out. Its exhibitions are themed around archaeology, art, ethnography, natural history, and it also has a musical instrument exhibition.

There is also a miniature park here, Minimundus. It features over 150 miniature models of buildings from around the world, such as the Statue of Liberty in New York, the Eiffel Tower in Paris, or the Sydney Opera House.

Klagenfurt attractions, weather

Zell Am See

Popular among fans of both winter and summer sports, thanks to its excellent ski slopes, as well as sailing, cycling, hiking, and other outdoor activities.

Besides skiing, Lake Zell is a major attraction. On the 4-kilometer-long and 1.5-kilometer-wide lake, one can enjoy boating with a wonderful panorama, and ice skating in winter.

The city itself is worth a walk, as it is rich in historical and cultural sights.

Sankt Anton am Arlberg

Often simply referred to as St. Anton, this world-famous ski resort is located in the westernmost part of Tyrol.

A true Tyrolean small town, with neat, flower-lined streets and plenty of restaurants and accommodations. It is especially known for its excellent ski slopes, advanced lift system, and lively après-ski social life.

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