Visiting Salzburg in winter is a special experience. The city transforms into a magical destination during the colder months. The historic Old Town, the impressive Hohensalzburg Fortress, and the festive atmosphere make a trip unforgettable. In this travel guide, we’ll show you the best things to do in Salzburg in winter, including top attractions and activities you shouldn’t miss.
Table of Contents – Things to Do in Salzburg in Winter
Our Arrival – Winter Trip to Salzburg
We flew directly to Salzburg and were immediately captivated by the stunning mountain scenery surrounding the city. The snow-covered peaks made us feel like we had arrived at the perfect winter getaway.
From the airport, we headed straight to our hotel* in the northern part of the city. After checking in, we took a taxi to our first destination, the city’s most famous landmark, the Hohensalzburg Fortress*.
Things to Do in Salzburg in Winter
Salzburg has many impressive attractions to offer in winter. The historic Old Town, the fortress towering high above the city, and the magnificent baroque buildings create a truly magical atmosphere during the colder months. We explored the most important sights and will show you which experiences you shouldn’t miss.
Hohensalzburg Fortress – The Landmark of Salzburg
Perched high above Salzburg, Hohensalzburg Fortress offers breathtaking views of the Old Town and the surrounding mountains. This impressive stronghold is one of the largest fully preserved castles in Europe, with mighty walls and fascinating historic interiors.
We made the steep climb up to the fortress, enjoying breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding landscape along the way. Once at the top, we explored the various exhibitions and took in the spectacular scenery from the Reck Tower platform. The panoramic view over Salzburg’s snow-covered rooftops was especially impressive.
Tip: It’s worth purchasing your tickets* online in advance. This way, you can skip the lines at the ticket counter and start your visit right away. If you prefer to avoid the uphill walk, you can take the funicular railway for a comfortable ride up and down. Here you can book your ticket for Hohensalzburg Fortress*.
Mirabell Palace – Baroque Elegance and Enchanting Gardens
Mirabell Palace is one of the most beautiful landmarks in Salzburg. Its baroque architecture and expansive gardens left a lasting impression on us.
We took a stroll through the Mirabell Gardens, admiring the elegant sculptures and meticulously designed pathways. The Pegasus Fountain, featured in many famous films, was a true highlight. Inside, we were especially fascinated by the Marble Hall. Its magnificent ceiling decorations and golden elements make it one of Austria’s most stunning ceremonial halls.
Tip: Entry to Mirabell Palace is free. If you want to experience a truly special atmosphere, you can attend a classical concert in the Marble Hall*. For us, this concert was one of the highlights of our Salzburg trip. The combination of music and baroque splendor creates an unforgettable experience. Here you can secure your ticket for a concert at Mirabell Palace*.
Mozart’s Birthplace – Following the Footsteps of the Famous Composer
Mozart’s Birthplace in Getreidegasse is one of Salzburg’s most famous attractions. The original furnished rooms provide fascinating insights into the life and work of the composer. The museum features historical instruments and personal belongings of Mozart, making it an essential stop for music lovers.
Tip: The museum is very popular, so visiting in the morning is recommended to avoid the crowds.
Mozart’s Residence – A Glimpse into His Daily Life
Mozart’s Residence offers another perspective on the composer’s life. Unlike his birthplace, this museum showcases his later years and musical development. Audio guides provide interesting background information to enhance the experience.
DomQuartier & Salzburg Cathedral – Experience Baroque Splendor
The Salzburg Cathedral is a masterpiece of baroque architecture. Its magnificent dome and lavish frescoes are a must-see. A visit to the DomQuartier offers a deeper insight into Salzburg’s history and provides a fantastic view of the cathedral from above.
Tip: The DomQuartier combination ticket* is worth it, as it grants access to multiple historic rooms and exhibitions.
Mönchsberg – Nature and Stunning Views Over the City
Mönchsberg offers one of the most breathtaking views of Salzburg. The combination of nature, historic walls, and modern art makes the walk particularly diverse. At the top, you’ll find the Museum of Modern Art, which features fascinating exhibitions. If you prefer not to walk the entire way up, you can take the Mönchsberg Lift for a comfortable ascent.
Salzwelten Salt Mine – A Fascinating Underground Experience
An unusual but truly fascinating activity for us was visiting the Salzwelten salt mine*. We took a mining train deep into the mountain and learned about the significance of the “white gold.” One of the highlights was the wooden slides, which made the tour an unforgettable experience.
If you’re planning to visit the salt mine, we recommend purchasing your tickets in advance. You can book your tickets online here*.
Be sure to bring warm clothing, as the tunnels remain cool throughout the year.
Felsenreitschule – A Historic Landmark with Unique Architecture
The Felsenreitschule impresses with its arcades carved directly into the rock. Originally used as a riding school, it now serves as a stunning theater venue. Its unique architecture is especially striking from the outside.
Tip: If you want to see the Felsenreitschule from the inside, you can book a guided tour or attend a performance during the Salzburg Festival.
Getting Around in Salzburg – The Best Ways to Explore
Salzburg is best explored on foot. Since our hotel* was located slightly outside the city center, we often used buses or taxis. However, most attractions are within walking distance, making it easy to stroll through the charming old town.
Tip: The Salzburg Card provides free public transportation and complimentary entry to many attractions.
A Special Atmosphere in the Cold Season – Things to do in Salzburg in Winter
Salzburg is especially charming in winter. The festive lights, beautifully decorated streets, and the scent of mulled wine make a stroll through the Old Town unforgettable. The Christkindlmarkt in front of the cathedral adds to the magical holiday atmosphere.
Our Accommodation – Our Hotel in Salzburg
We stayed in the northern part of Salzburg. The location was quiet yet well-connected. Since we booked very spontaneously and at short notice, there were no available hotels in the city center. If you want to stay in a central location, it’s best to book your hotel in advance*.
Conclusion – Things to do in Salzburg in Winter
Our winter trip to Salzburg was a complete success. The city impressed us with its baroque architecture, numerous attractions, and unique winter atmosphere. A visit is highly recommended, especially for those who love culture, history, and a romantic ambiance.
