Salzburg guide | Salzburg attractions and things to do

About Salzburg, Austria

Salzburg is quite possibly one of the oldest and most matured cities in the entire world. There is evidence of human life in the area that date as far back as the Neolithic Age! It is no wonder why the Celts decided to settle here so long ago. Situated between the Alps to the North and rolling plains to the South, Salzburg is immersed in natural Alpine beauty.

Because of its well preserved architecture, notably that of the Baroque type, the entire city was named as a UNESCRO World Heritage Site, making it a very attractive landmark for tourists. Salzburg is also the birthplace of many famous faces like Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and was the setting for the beloved movie The Sound of Music.

Things to do in Salzburg

Our mini-guide to what's on in Salzburg lists the top events in a handy Salzburg Calendar format. If you take your short break in Salzburg, Austria when these events are taking place, add them to your list of things to do in Salzburg.

January: International Hot Air Balloon Week - Just south of Salzburg lies the small village of Filzmoos, which shines during the month of January when its skies become filled with hot air balloons from all over the world that make a pilgrimage of sorts to the tiny town. A favorite here is the Night of Balloons when dozens of balloons go upwards at 6:00pm and light up the night sky. Admission is free.

February: Mozart Week - Clearly Salzburg has to pay an annual tribute to the genius that is Mozart. The legend was born and raised in the town and it is easy to see where he got all of his inspiration from! Many musicians from all over come to perform and celebrate Mozart's birthday from the end of January through February. Admissions cost roughly between 8 - 185EUR and opening hours vary to event.

March: White Trail - Each March snowshoers from all over the continent come to Lammertal, just beyond Salzburg, to compete in the 6 kilometer White Trail race. The event is open to anyone willing to give snowshoeing a try. Competitors then mingle with observers at the after party. The entrance fee is approximately 15EUR and the race begins at 1:45pm.

April: Salzburg Easter Festival - This ten day event features various opera and orchestra productions from all over Europe. The fest takes place as Grosses Festspielhaus and runs from mid March to approximately the end of May. Prices and hours vary to event.

May: Salzburg Whitsun Baroque Festival - To pay homage to its deep Baroque heritage, this staple music festival focuses on inspired opera and classical music of the same name. The event is held at the Haus fur Mozart in early may. Opera admissions range from 10 - 220EUR while concerts go for 8 - 95EUR. General hours are Friday at 7:30pm, Weekend 11:am - 7:30pm and Monday from 11:00am onward.

June: Classical Music - In June, Salzburg becomes serenaded in a host of classical music, featuring numerous evenings with dinners, dances and renditions from The Sound of Music. Hours and admission vary per event.

July: Werfen Ice Caves - These glowing caves are the largest ice caves in the world, running nearly 42 kilometers into the mountains. However, only the first kilometer, and perhaps the most beautiful, is open to the public. The caves are only open from May through October. Tours are approximately 75 minutes while the entire visit is about 4 hours. Admission varies.

August: HayArt Festival - In order to celebrate the end of summer harvest, nearby Annaberg and surrounding areas host a Hay Parade featuring giant floats and figures made of, what else, hay! These floats are pulled by local Nordic horses and vintage tractors. Hours vary to events but the hay parade typically starts at 11:00am and the ceremony for the winners around 3:30pm.

September: Rupertikirday - Each September citizens gather in Cathedral Square for a free fete, to honor of their patron saint Rupert. The celebrations start early and continue through the evening. The streets come alive with arts and crafts, orchestra music, magic performances, a carousel and other street entertainment.

October: Hellbrunn Palace - Only open from April through November, this 17^th century palace was home to the Italophile Archbishop von Hohenems and remains largely unchanged. Outside of the palace there is an enormous garden filled with fountains which guests can also stroll until 10:00pm. Admission varies from adults to children.

November: International Ski Countdown - With mountains at its backdoor, it is no wonder that winter sports are welcomed each year with open arms. Obertauern, a favorite ski resort and the same place the Beatles shot their movie Help!, becomes an open air festival to celebrate the coming season; complete with radio station DJs, fireworks and a large snow bar.

December: Christmas Market - Each November through December Residence Square is filled with twinkling lights, gifts and the hustle and bustle of holiday shoppers. After a long day of shopping, visitors can indulge in wine and delicious hot foods. The market official opens November 22 at 6:00pm each year and is free, aside from what you buy.

Salzburg Airport

Salzburg Airport, also known as Mozart Airport, is the second largest in the country and has plays a huge role in the local economy. It is often the choice of winter sports nuts because there is easy access to the center of Salzburg as well as other Austrian ski resorts. It is connected directly to Salzburg's public transportation. Another terminal is to be added in the near future.