The city traces its origins to a small fortified settlement on the Saltsy River . Gradually, the small fortress became a city with a developed culture.
Salzburg is located in the Alps, 425 m above sea level. Here, all elements – picturesque nature, fresh air, baroque buildings, traces of the past – are in harmony with each other.
The symbol of Salzburg is the Hohensalzburg fortress . At first it was wooden, later – until the 16th century – it became stone. Waagplatz, Altermarkt, University Square – there are quite a lot of squares in this city. The Court Pharmacy is of interest . It is considered a mysterious place.
The house where V. A. Mozart was born stands in Salzburg . Tourists can see the graves of Mozart’s relatives and the garden Vienna Pavilion , where the great composer wrote “The Magic Flute”.
Salzburg is a real stronghold of Catholicism. Many churches operate here. One of the wonderful monuments of church architecture is the Salzburg Cathedral . It was built on the foundation of another building. Its style is traditionally defined as Romanesque, while the Residenzbrunnen marble fountain is made in the Baroque style.
A trip to Salzburg, tips for tourists
- The city is best visited in the warm season. It is quite cold in Salzburg in winter, which can prevent you from fully enjoying various excursions and entertainment.
- The city has a well-developed network of trolleybuses and buses, which can be used to reach any street of interest.
- Tickets for public transport can be purchased at any tobacco kiosk, here they are cheaper than anything else.
- Taxis are quite inexpensive in the city, fares may increase only in the evening. It is best to call a car to a restaurant or hotel, it will be quite difficult to “catch” a free taxi on the road.
- A bicycle is very popular among local residents and vacationers, on which you can freely move around the city. The best rental point is Top Bike.
- Those who rent a bicycle need to keep a close eye on the vehicle and not leave it unattended on the streets. Together with the bicycle, everyone is given a special chain and a combination lock, with which the two-wheeled friend can be protected from thieves.
- As a souvenir, tourists usually buy local chocolate, and during the period of the fairs, you can buy beautiful decorations for the home.
- To make the trip even more convenient, you can purchase a city map and a schedule with public transport routes. As a rule, they are issued at special kiosks at the railway station absolutely free of charge.
- Those who find the city attractions to be insufficient can be advised to sign up for a tour of Vienna . Excursion buses depart from Salzburg every day , and you can also get to the city by train.
Sights of Salzburg: churches, museums, palaces
Hohensalzburg Fortress
»Hohensalzburg is a medieval fortress built on a high mountain. The beginning of construction dates back to 1077.
“Initially, it was the castle of Archbishop Gebhard I, of which only the foundation remains today. Gradually, the castle was completed and strengthened, turning into a powerful fortress.
“In 1500, the world’s first funicular was built, which delivered various goods to the fortress.
“For the entire time of its existence, the fortress was besieged only once for 61 days during the uprising in 1525. The fortress was never attacked and destroyed again, even during the bombing in 1944.
“In the 19th and 20th centuries, the fortress housed barracks, a prison, and warehouses.
“Now the fortress is one of the main tourist attractions in Salzburg . There is a cable car from the city center to the fortress.
»Interesting museum objects are the Princely Chambers with a medieval interior, the Fortress Museum with a large collection of weapons from different eras, the posthumous mask of Field Marshal Radetsky, the puppet museum , the Memorial Museum of the Archduke Rainer Regiment.
“On Sundays, a brass band performs in the fortress tower, parades take place. The sounds of fanfare spread throughout the city district.
Salzburg Cathedral
“Salzburg Cathedral was built on the site of the first Christian church in 774 by Archbishop Virgil of Salzburg.
“For many centuries, the temple was completely destroyed by fire many times – in 1167, 1312, 1598, 1859. The last time it was destroyed in 1944 during the bombing.
“The restoration of the cathedral ended in 1959. A plaque was hung on the gate with the three dates of the consecration of the cathedral – 774, 1628, 1959.
»The Cathedral has 11 altars, five organs, up to 10,000 people can be present at the service at the same time. The bells that ring from the belfry were cast in the 16th and 17th centuries. On the portal of the temple there are figures of St. Virgil and Rupert – bishops who lived here in the 8th century and are the patrons of Salzburg.
“Wolfgang Mozart was baptized in the Cathedral in 1756 in a medieval font cast in 1321. Growing up, Mozart served as an organist in the church.
“The tomb of the archbishops of Salzburg is also located here .
Hellbrunn Castle
»Hellbrunn Castle was built by order of Prince and Archbishop Markus von Hoenems as a summer residence in 1615. Since childhood, when he lived in Italy and loved Italian architecture, the prince invited Italian architects to build a residence.
“Besides the castle, a hunting lodge Mountschloss was built , an open-air stone theater cut in a mountain gorge, a mechanical theater in which 265 figurines of people of various professions are set in motion by the power of water.
A 60-hectare park was laid out with water bodies, fountains (funny ones), statues and figures of animals. Water activities used the water of natural streams flowing down from the mountain. There are no analogues of similar structures that have been operating for 400 years.
“The palace and park management have been preserved intact and safe to this day. Holidays, festivals, international conferences and seminars are held here.
“Since 1961, a zoo has been operating in the palace park, which is popular with tourists.
Mirabel Palace
»Mirabell Palace is the most wonderful place in the city of Salzburg . It was built in 1606.
“The legend says that the palace was a gift from Archbishop Wolf Rathenau to his beloved Solomia Alt . They could not legalize their relationship, but this did not prevent them from giving birth to 15 children.
“The palace was rebuilt many times. After the fire in 1818, only the Marble Hall and the marble staircase were preserved.
»The new castle was built by the famous architect Petro de Nobile . And it was already a different palace, more discreet.
»The main attraction of the Mirabel Palace is its gardens, which are not inferior to the parks of Versailles . There is a fountain in the center of the park. surrounded by sculptures of ancient Greek gods. These statues have been preserved since 1690.
“On a small piece of the Park, the Garden of Dwarves was located , which united 28 small funny sculptures of the city’s residents.
“The most beautiful place in the palace is the Marble Hall. Amadeus Mozart once performed here.
“Now wedding ceremonies are taking place here. This is the best hall in Austria. The garden and park ensemble of Mirabel is protected by UNESCO.
St. Peter’s Abbey
“St. Peter’s Abbey was formed in 690 at the foot of Menchsberg Mountain . Before that, hermits lived in the caves of the mountain. These caves have survived to this day.
» Saint Rupert founded a men’s monastery here. The relics of St. Rupert are buried in the monastery cathedral under the altar.
»From 793, the residence of the archbishops was located here until 1110.
“In 1622, the Catholic University was opened in the abbey (today it is the University of Salzburg ).
The monastery houses the oldest library in Austria , which contains 100,000 volumes on the history of the church, art, and the history of Salzburg and its surroundings. A special permit is required to visit the library.
“Behind the wall of the cathedral there is an ancient cemetery, the date 803 is indicated on the gravestones. The monastery still sells land for burials to wealthy townspeople.
“The abbey owns a huge plot of land, contains a bakery that bakes rye bread.
»Although this is an active monastery, some properties are open to tour groups.
Salzburg Marionette Theater
“Salzburg Puppet Theater was founded by professor, sculptor Anton Eicher . The sculptor created a structure of dolls capable of conveying natural human movements.
“The theater opened in 1913 with the premiere of Mozart’s opera Bastien and Bastienne . During the year, the troupe staged 14 plays. These were Mozart’s operas.
»Anton Eicher managed the theater until 1926, and then handed over the management to his son – Hermann Eicher. Herman began using the latest lighting technology to enhance the visual impact of the scene. And he attracted teachers and students of the Mozarteum to the musical part of the performances .
“Since 1927, the marionette theater began to travel on tours to different countries. Until now, the theater goes on tour and is very popular all over the world.
“His repertoire includes operas and operettas, ballet performances and other dramatic productions. Therefore, both children and adults are happy to attend the enchanting colorful theatrical performance.
Parish Church of Müln
“The parish church of Müln has been mentioned since 1148. It is located in an area where there were many water mills in the past. This explains its name.
“In 1439, the small church changed its appearance and acquired elements of the Gothic style.
“And in 1674, a pointed belfry was added to the church tower.
»The interior decoration is distinguished by its altar, lined with red marble. In the center of the altar is a figure of the Holy Virgin Mary with a baby , made in 1453. It is considered miraculous.
»A powerful staircase has been preserved, along which ancient canvases of the 17th century are placed.
»A small cemetery has been located under the walls of the church since 1453.
Nonnberg Abbey
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»Nonnberg Abbey is the oldest nunnery founded in German-speaking lands.
“St. Rupert was the founder of the monastery, and his sister Ehrentrud became the first abbess of the monastery in 714. In the Basilica of the Holy Mother of God, there is a tombstone of the canonized Ehrentrud of Salzburg.
“Since the monastery is still active, the main area is closed to visitors. Tourists are allowed to enter the chapel of St. Ioanna _
»There are unique exhibits here: a crucifix of 1300, the chair of the abbess, decorated with a thousand ivory figures, ancient books, paintings.
»In 2006, gold and silver coins were issued, on which the Nonnberg Abbey was engraved.
“The film-musical “Sounds of Music” tells the real life story of Maria Augusta Kuchera, a novice of the monastery.
The color of Salzburg is traditions, festivals and the mentality of local residents
Salzburg conquers the hearts of travelers with its unusual national celebrations. In January, there is a holiday called “Process of Dandruff” – a solemn procession in which everyone can participate. It is enough to get a special festive costume, the main attribute of which is an unusual headdress. A tall top hat (the height of which can reach two meters), animal skins and colorful masks – on the days of the celebration, you can see thousands of people wearing such clothes, solemnly walking through the main streets of the city.
Local residents are distinguished by friendliness and sensitivity, they are always ready to talk to visitors and help them with advice. Only people of the older generation are wary of tourists, and even those, after hearing a couple of phrases in their broken native language, will surely be moved by sympathy for the city guest. They have great respect for the traditions of the past, folk crafts and ancient festivals are still very popular here.
An interesting celebration is St. Rupert’s fair , during the holiday you can also see local residents and tourists in beautiful old costumes. Every citizen must have a special holiday outfit. Women wear beautiful dresses and hats that were in fashion several centuries ago, and men sew tailcoats and put on top hats. For those who did not have time to stock up on holiday clothes, there are many specialized ateliers where you can order the most unique costume.
The main festive events take place in the central squares. During five days, artisans sell their products here, chefs treat guests with national dishes, and there are various carousels and attractions for children. Mozart has been one of the main symbols of the city for many years. Numerous museums and galleries are dedicated to him, memorable evenings are held in theaters, and his immortal works can be heard in restaurants. While walking around the city, you can see numerous monuments dedicated to the great composer, they are on almost every street.
But Salzburg is known not only for the fact that it is the birthplace of a great composer, but also for the fact that it is called the “Rome of the North”. All because for centuries the ruling princes of the city wanted to transform their homeland into the image of Rome. It was supposed to be not just a beautiful and influential city, but also a city with a rich history. Well, it (history) is really rich in the city, and in addition, there are elegant palaces, squares that can be compared to Roman ones, but Salzburg itself is one of a kind. The city at the foot of the Alps, where Mozart was lucky enough to be born.
Therefore, it is not surprising that the Week in honor of the great composer is held here. These days, the city is blooming like a flower lost in the mountains. The holiday in honor of Mozart begins at the end of January and lasts until the end of February, and world-class stars take part in the event – the most outstanding orchestras, performers and ensembles, and since 2013 the Children’s Orchestra named after Mozart . This place is worth a visit for anyone who likes chamber music and also wants to visit Salzburg in winter – when it is most attractive to get to know. After all, this is not only Mozart Week , but also an opportunity to explore the Alps.
Another festival worth visiting for classical music lovers is, of course, the Salzburg Summer Festival . It starts at the end of July and lasts until the end of August. In addition to classical music, the audience is invited to watch musical and theater productions (some of them were staged here for the first time). The festival is held in the Great Festival Palace . If you think that such events are boring, then just look at the faces of people leaving the hall where the concert was held – they got a lot of impressions. Therefore, Salzburg offers everyone to listen and enjoy quality music right here.
An equally popular celebration in Salzburg is Fasching . In fact, it is a carnival – hundreds of people dress up in costumes (mostly historical ones, but there are even those who dress up in superhero costumes). In Austria, the holiday is similar to Mardi Gras in Italy and France, Fat Tuesday in English-speaking countries, Fastelavn in Scandinavian countries, Ostatk’am – in Poland, Myasopust in the Czech Republic and Masnica, which is held on the territory of the Eastern Slavs. The celebration is accompanied by a large number of balloons, and a parade is held in its honor. If you arrive at this time with children, they will get a lot of impressions. And adults, who will be charged with positive energy for the whole year, will have a great time.
The night before May 1st is celebrated very interestingly in Salzburg. This night is called Philippinacht . At this time, people walk the streets and neighborhoods and collect what is “badly lying”. But not in order to appropriate it – by no means. Then everything takes a completely unexpected turn: a contest is held where people who have lost an item can return the item for a symbolic fee. Usually the payment is a mug of beer. Just Philip, in whose honor the holiday is held, is the patron saint of order.
The city at the foot of the Alps also offers to visit the gastronomic festival called Eat & Meat . It takes place throughout March, and the best Austrian wines and dishes will be presented. In addition to trying the traditional strudel, schnitzel, nockerl or boischel, the audience can learn to cook at master classes organized by the best chefs in Austria , who are all present in Salzburg at this time . Gastronomic tours and fun parties are also held throughout the city. The best varieties of coffee are presented.
But hardly anything can compare with the celebration of Christmas in Salzburg . At this time, it feels as if Weinachtsmann has moved the whole city not anywhere, but into a real fairy tale – snowy streets, on which elves seem to walk, illuminated by the bright light of lanterns, and the music that sounds from everywhere only adds to the feeling of a holiday and a fairy tale . Christmas markets also open at this time – Christkindlmarkt on Cathedral Square, Weihnachtsmarkt on Mirabellplatz, Stiegl in the brewery of the same name, and Hellbrunner Adventzauber in Hellbrunn Palace. Here you can buy food, souvenirs made by real craftsmen, and in Stiegl – and taste traditional beer.
Active recreation, entertainment and nightlife in Salzburg. Where to go for a cultural vacation
Salzburg is a real find for lovers of outdoor activities. The city has a huge number of parks, gardens and pedestrian streets, so hiking and cycling remain the favorite entertainment of visitors. During a walk along the ancient Getreidegasse street, you can see a lot of sights, as well as discover cozy cafes and restaurants. Shopping lovers will find it interesting to walk around the central area of the city, it is definitely worth visiting the Europark shopping complex . The most diverse shops are represented here, from jewelry pavilions and clothing boutiques to souvenir shops and children’s toy stores.
Those who are lucky enough to visit the city on the eve of Christmas must visit the Christmas market . Such a number of sweets, crafts and decorations for the home cannot be found at any other fair. Lovers of night entertainment are in for a little disappointment, there are very few nightclubs in the city. An excellent alternative to them will be local pubs, where you can not only drink a cold beer, but also enjoy an entertainment program or listen to live music.
One of the most popular night spots is the Daimlers bar . Here you can not only enjoy a variety of drinks and snacks, but also listen to modern music, as well as take part in an interesting entertainment program. The bar welcomes guests until late in the evening, not only music lovers, but also pizza and beer lovers gather here every day. The Rockhouse Salzburg club will be an excellent place to relax for a large company . It has all the amenities that modern clubbers are used to: a large bar, a spacious dance floor, modern music and a cozy atmosphere. The club often hosts concerts of famous rock bands and musical groups performing blues, so fans of these areas should especially like it here.
Irish music lovers will appreciate Murphy’s Law Irish Pub . Accordingly, if someone has to visit an Irish pub, he will definitely visit it. The atmosphere of Ireland meets the brewing traditions of Austria , and what comes out of this is a must experience. You can find the pub at Gstaettengasse 33 . Another pub that will appeal to whiskey lovers and perfectionists is the Salzburg Whiskey Museum . The creators made sure not only that people could drink a good whiskey or beer, but also that they would enjoy the quality of the woodwork on the furniture.
For those who like to enjoy gorgeous views while eating food, the following cafes are specially created – Monkeys Café.Bar and Mönchsberg 32 . The first offers a view of the city’s most famous fortress – Hohensalzburg , which in its entirety shows that Mozart’s hometown is under reliable protection. The second cafe opens up views of Salzburg , bathed in the sun, which seems like a nimbus above the head of the city, and the stunning majestic Alps, which seem distant and at the same time close.
Salzburg as a whole is known for its proximity to proudly rising mountains. Therefore, active recreation in the city’s surroundings includes skiing on snow-covered mountains, a trip on ski lifts, and relaxing in a spa. Trekking is a popular type of active recreation . By the way, with the beginning of the Christmas holidays, a free bus service to the international ski area Snow Space Salzburg begins . This is a place where you can enjoy all types of skiing. In winter, you can also go ice-skating at Mozartplatz in Salzburg. It opens in November.
If a river flows in the city, then there should be an opportunity to ride a boat. Of course, there is such an opportunity in Mozart’s homeland. However, unlike horse-drawn carriages, among the huge selection of boats there are ultra-modern models equipped with innovative equipment. From the river there is simply an incredibly beautiful view of the city. Another interesting event offered by Mozart’s homeland is a trip to the salt mines. There is no need to be a professional miner – before descending deep into the Earth, training is carried out, and the descent itself is safe. The beauty of Mirror Lake and the train ride are especially noted .
Salzburg , even if it is not the most noisy city, but here, too, peace and solitude are sometimes necessary. Mirabelgarten offers such an opportunity . In addition to the fact that here you can relax from the hustle and bustle, enjoy the beautiful views of the trees, there is an opportunity to visit Mozart’s house , which is now a museum, and the Mirabel Palace , and for children – a playground. Next to the garden, you can find another wonderful place to relax – this is Kapuzienberg Park . One of the notable places is the observation deck, which offers a wonderful view of the city. While walking in the park, you can meet mountain goats, and the Capuchin church is one of the attractions .
Near the city, you can find the summer residence of the Salzburg archbishops – Hellbrunn , on the territory of which there is a park, a mechanical theater, a folklore museum, a stone theater and a zoo . Even though the zoo itself is not very big, its fauna is amazingly rich. When visiting Mozart’s hometown with children, you should definitely visit this place. Here you can see animals from all over the world – from Australia to North America. And the sculptures that can be seen in the park are simply mesmerizing.
By the way, Salzburg is precisely known for the interesting sculptures located on its territory. The most famous exposition is ” Cloak of Conscience “. You can find it in the Cathedral . This is something like the Commander , who monitors the observance of moral principles in the city. There is a monument to the cyclist at Elisabethkai 10, and the “Soul of the Ebro” (located in the courtyard of the University of Salzburg), and even a monument to Paul Fürst – the creator of candies with which many associate Salzburg (Mozartkugel). And, of course, the monument to the great composer is one of the most famous sculptures.
For gourmets: restaurants and cafes of Salzburg
In addition to restaurants of national cuisine, Salzburg will delight travelers with a large number of various cafes, bars and pizzerias, which will be a great place for a large group to relax. Yes, the Carpe Diem restaurant offers a huge selection of international cuisine. Its menu includes spaghetti with various sauces, fish dishes, and hamburgers.
The best way to taste Austrian cuisine is at the Raschhofer’s Rossbräu restaurant . Its tables are set on a spacious terrace, which is heated in the cold season, so visitors always have the opportunity to dine outdoors. Juicy schnitzels, aromatic soups in pots, homemade sausage and excellent wine – it is simply impossible to resist such exquisite dishes.
Fans of Italian cuisine should visit the Pizzeria Azzurro restaurant . Its menu is regularly updated, fish weeks, Mediterranean cuisine holidays and other themed evenings are often held.
Among the city’s pubs, the most famous is Augustinerbräu Kloster Mülln , which has its own brewery. It was founded back in 1621, so beer fans should definitely try the amber drink, which is still prepared according to ancient recipes. The cozy cafe Bazar is always waiting for guests , where, in addition to traditional cold snacks and salads, you can order excellent beer and wine. One of the oldest restaurants in the city is Stiftskeller St. Peter , located in the center of the historical district. National dishes are prepared here according to ancient recipes, classical music concerts are often held in the evenings.
The Stadtwirtshaus Gabler restaurant is a prestigious establishment , which, in addition to national cuisine, offers its guests to try popular dishes of European cuisine. The institution’s signature drink is beer, the restaurant serves more than twenty varieties of it. The main supplier of beer has been the Kaltenhausen factory for many years , which was opened more than five centuries ago and is one of the most famous producers of the foamy drink in the country.
In the national restaurants of Salzburg, you can try excellent mashed soups, which are an important component of the national gastronomy. They are prepared here from a variety of vegetables, the most popular among local residents are pumpkin, potato and broccoli soups, to which onions and garlic are added. Some versions of cream soups are served in a bread roll, which makes them even more unusual. A rather unusual option for the first course is the ” Fritattensuppe ” soup, to which fresh pancakes are added. They are cut into thin strips and added to a clear broth, this version of the soup must be prepared with fresh herbs.
Fans of original meat dishes in Salzburg restaurants also have a pleasant surprise, many of them prepare very interesting game dishes. Here you can try roast deer meat , and they also prepare very interesting dishes from roe deer meat. Among meat dishes, delicacies made from wild duck meat occupy a special place . This type of meat has a special aroma and taste, many meat dishes in restaurants in Salzburg are served with a traditional red cabbage salad.
Another original side dish option is ” Knodelya ” – small balls of bread dough, which can be served with meat dishes instead of traditional bread. Dumplings are often prepared with the addition of mushrooms, various spices, pieces of lard and spices fried until crispy, which makes them an original independent dish.
The local lakes catch a wide variety of fish, in the preparation of which the chefs of Salzburg have also reached great heights. In the alpine lakes there is a special type of fish “Zaibling” , which you can try only here. The best option for cooking fish is considered to be frying over an open fire, spices are added to the fish in this case in a minimal amount.
One of the main national dishes is considered by local residents to be roast pork , which is called ” Schweinsbraten “. The dish was first prepared hundreds of years ago in Bavaria , where it is still widespread today. However, in Salzburg it is prepared according to a special method and they consider the roast to be their national dish. One of the favorite drinks of local residents is beer, the well-known varieties Stiegl and Augustiener are brewed here . Local breweries have long become popular tourist attractions, with excellent restaurants of national cuisine. If you order a mug of beer in such restaurants, in addition to it, they will certainly serve the most popular snack option – ” pretzel» – a pretzel made of unleavened dough sprinkled with coarse salt.
Living in style in Salzburg – a review of unique design hotels in Salzburg
Hotel Altstadt Hotel Stadtkrug
Among the high-class hotels of Salzburg, the Altstadt Hotel Stadtkrug stands out for its unique interior, made in the style of yesteryear. The hotel is located in a beautiful historical building, which was built more than 700 years ago, the basis of its interior is chic antique furniture, bright carpets and real works of art. Some rooms are equipped with chic leather sofas and armchairs, while in others, the main decoration of the interior is a huge bed with a canopy in the colonial style. The decoration of the bathrooms is also luxurious, they are lined with rare marble and decorated with fresh flowers.
Hotel Hotel am Dom
Those who prefer a modern style will love the Hotel am Dom. It also occupies a restored historical building in which the original stone walls and wooden ceilings have been preserved. The spacious rooms are decorated with a predominance of white color and are furnished with elegant Italian furniture, and their main decoration are portraits of prominent artists. Thanks to chic designer chandeliers and lamps that resemble crystals sparkling in the rays of the sun, you can create a romantic atmosphere in the room.
Hotel Motel One Salzburg-Süd
Motel One Salzburg-Süd welcomed its first guests in 2011, the budget hotel also has an unusual and attractive decoration. Stylish sky-blue designer furniture, original “old-fashioned” brickwork in the hall and interesting metal and glass decorations – all these elements make up an impressive and harmonious interior. The bathroom is made of marble, it is decorated in strict black and white colors. The original decor is also present in the bar, its wall is decorated with colorful photo wallpapers with a panoramic view of Salzburg .
Hotel Markus Sittikus
The modern Markus Sittikus hotel also has its own unique style. Each of its rooms is decorated in a unique thematic style, guests will have the opportunity to stay in a chic room with antique furniture or in a romantic snow-white room, on the walls of which country landscapes are displayed. Many rooms have snow-white beds with high bright backs, as well as furniture in the style of past years made of light wood. In the warm season, guests of the hotel have access to a well-kept garden, the terraces of which are furnished with designer garden furniture.
Hotel Best Western Plus Amedia Art Salzburg
The Best Western Plus Amedia Art Salzburg hotel is located in a spectacular modern building, it offers its customers stylish and bright rooms. The rooms are dominated by white, red and orange tones, and the elegant atmosphere is made by strict furniture made of dark wood. All rooms have panoramic windows, and in the warm season, a wonderful panoramic terrace is equipped on the roof. The hotel also has a stylish lounge bar, decorated with posters of world-famous musicians, miniature bouquets of fresh flowers and unusual design installations.
Hotel Blaue Gans
The interior of the Blaue Gans art hotel is a real masterpiece of design art, it was opened in a unique building of the 14th century. The hotel rooms are decorated with white fabrics and complemented by masterful light woodwork, and the bathrooms are decorated in bright colors. The real pride of the hotel is a rich collection of paintings by prominent Austrian artists, it includes more than a hundred unique canvases. The walls in the restaurant are decorated with restored frescoes with national motifs, and one of the main features of the design hotel is a wonderful winter garden in the Mediterranean style. The atmosphere of Hotel Blaue Gans is a unique combination of medieval traditions and modern style.
Where to stay in Salzburg – a review of the most fashionable luxury hotels
Hotel Sheraton Salzburg
Salzburg will not disappoint those who prefer the most luxurious and expensive hotels. The luxurious Sheraton Salzburg Hotel is a single complex with the famous Kurhaus spa and offers customers a choice of more than 150 high-class rooms. The cost of accommodation in one of the club rooms of the hotel will be about 1,000 USD per day, guests of rooms of this category get the right to free access to the exclusive club lounge. For accommodation in the most luxurious royal suite, the area of which is 55 square meters. meters, it is necessary to pay about 1,500 USD per day, as an additional service, guests will have the right to free access not only to the club lounge, but also to the fitness center.
Hotel Hotel Goldener Hirsch
The Hotel Goldener Hirsch is also popular with wealthy travelers, occupying a restored 15th-century building and housing a rich collection of antiques. The cost of accommodation in one of its standard rooms is about 400 USD per night, and for 1,000 USD per day, guests can stay in one of the deluxe rooms. In the same building as the hotel is the legendary Goldener Hirsch restaurant of Austrian cuisine , as well as the Goldener Hirsch bar , which has an impeccable collection of vintage wines.
Hotel Crowne Plaza Salzburg – The Pitter
The Crowne Plaza Salzburg – The Pitter hotel is in demand among luxury connoisseurs, it has been welcoming travelers since 1864. For demanding guests, the hotel has several luxury rooms, guests can choose a room with a panoramic view of the historic streets or a quiet courtyard. Deluxe rooms are decorated in cream tones and supplemented with a very interesting lighting system, which is installed around the perimeter of the ceiling and floor. One of the main advantages of the hotel is the old PitterKeller beer cellar , where you can taste the best varieties of local beer.
Hotel Stein
Travelers who choose the high-class Hotel Stein for their vacation will have the opportunity to stay in a luxurious suite with a panoramic view of Hohensalzburg Fortress and the picturesque historic district. The interior of the hotel is made in the best traditions of the Art Deco style, its bright upholstered furniture is draped with velvet, and the deluxe rooms have high king-size beds. The hotel also has a super suite, decorated in the style of the mid-20th century, its distinctive feature is a large bathroom with a panoramic window.
Hotel Gasthof Brandstätter
In the immediate vicinity of Salzburg there is a fashionable hotel Gasthof Brandstätter, it will be an ideal place for a country vacation. The hotel has several excellent luxury rooms with an area of 50 square meters. meters, all of them are decorated in bright colors and furnished with “antique” furniture. The elegant hotel is surrounded by a lush garden with ancient trees, in the warm season, part of the restaurant’s tables are served on its territory and comfortable terraces are equipped for relaxation with deckchairs. The hotel has its own wellness center with an equipped gym, sauna and indoor pool.
The legends of Salzburg are famous hotels, glorified by history or star guests
Hotel Schloss Fuschl
The legendary hotel Schloss Fuschl is one of the outstanding historical monuments of Salzburg . It is located in the immediate vicinity of the city, on the shore of Lake Fuschlsee , the hotel was opened in the most interesting old castle with a rich history. In the 15th century, the castle was built for the Bishop of Salzburg and remained his hunting residence for many years. During its long history, the castle changed many owners, during the Second World War, it belonged to Joachim von Ribbentropp, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Germany, for several years . It was in this castle that numerous meetings of the Third Reich were held, Adolf Hitler himself visited it .
For fans of bright films of the mid-20th century, the Schloss Fuschl hotel is known for another important event – the filming of the film “Sissy” took place in its walls , in which Romy Schneider played the main role . Today, everyone can spend a few days in the legendary castle, guests are given a unique opportunity to view the museum exhibits presented in it. For many years, the castle has housed a rich collection of paintings, as well as a collection of personal belongings of the Austrian empress.
Hotel Hotel Schloss Mönchstein
Another legendary institution is the Hotel Schloss Mönchstein, located on the top of the Mönchsberg mountain , the old castle-hotel is surrounded by a large park area. It is the oldest fashionable hotel in Salzburg and has won a huge number of prestigious awards over the years of impeccable work. The castle hotel is home to the famous Schloss Mönchstein restaurant of Austrian cuisine , awarded two caps by the guide Haut Millau, one of its main advantages is a rich wine cellar.
The building in which the hotel is located was built in 1350 to strengthen the city’s defenses. Later, the tower was transformed into a large-scale fortress, which after its construction served as the location of the monastery. Many famous scientists and artists stayed in the castle, and the Princess of Liechtenstein spent a few days there . The fashionable castle-hotel welcomed its first guests in 1948, and recently it became the founder of the “European Castle Hotels” association . A few years ago, the historic Salzburg hotel was named “the most charming city hotel in the world” by the Hideaway Report.
Hotel Villa Trapp
The Villa Trapp miniature hotel has its own amazing story. In the period from 1923 to 1938, the charming villa belonged to the von Trapp family , whose history is well known to fans of the musical “The Sound of Music” . As early as 1947, the villa was empty and closed to outside visitors, the situation changed only in 2008, when a hotel was opened in the ancient building. The atmosphere in the ancient villa has been preserved as much as possible, its interior includes priceless antique treasures and works of art. Tourists can choose from 12 cozy rooms, as well as a chic private garden, which reliably protects the villa from the noise of the city streets.
Hotel Hotel Sacher Salzburg
Hotel Sacher Salzburg is a priceless monument of history, its opening took place in 1866. In the first years of operation, the hotel received guests under a different name – Osterreichischer Hof , since 1988 it has been under the management of the Gürtler family . The hostess of the hotel, Elizabeth Gürtler , worked on the interior design of the hotel; it will pleasantly surprise you with a variety of works of art and sophisticated designer decorations. In the building of the hotel there is a legendary old cafe Sacher Salzburg , rest in which remains the limit of dreams of thousands of sweet lovers. It is believed that it is in this historic cafe that you can try the famous Austrian cake “Sacher” , prepared in full accordance with the classic recipe.
Shopping in Salzburg
The most popular shopping street of the city is Getreidegasse , popular boutiques, restaurants and pastry shops are located here in historical buildings. It will be interesting for lovers of designer clothes and accessories to take a walk here, there is a large Louis Vuitton salon on the historic street . The shopping street has an interesting feature: by order of the authorities, the signs of all the shops presented here must be made in a single historical style. Many tourists come here not for expensive things, but to take pictures of these original signs.
On the popular historical street is the Fürst pastry shop , which was opened in 1884. Today, the stores of this chain are represented in various districts of the city, where you can buy sweets prepared according to national recipes, including Kügel’s candies . The pastry shop has a spacious hall with tables, before making a purchase, visitors can try the types of sweets that interest them. The store offers a great selection of gift sets of sweets, here you can buy wonderful gifts for loved ones.
Near the airport of Salzburg is the Designer Outlet – a huge shopping center where thrifty tourists go in search of inexpensive designer items. It sells clothes and shoes of the world’s leading brands, it will be interesting to visit this outlet at any time of the year. In addition to dozens of popular shops, there are several cafes and restaurants, as well as an ice rink, which is also open all year round.
Over a hundred stores of various specializations are represented in the Europark shopping center . In addition to clothes, shoes and accessories, it sells cosmetics and perfumes of popular brands, as well as interesting household goods and souvenirs. This shopping center forms a single complex with the Oval cultural center , so its visitors will always have the opportunity to diversify their shopping by attending interesting events. The shopping center is also suitable for visiting with children, it has many attractions for children and has a playroom.
If the shops presented here are not enough, you can go to the ZiB shopping complex . This two-story mall features popular clothing and footwear stores, stylish accessories, as well as sporting goods and books. On the first floor, there is a large supermarket, which sells popular products of local production. Many tourists come to this shopping center specifically to visit the Greek restaurant located on the second floor.
Since ancient times, Salzburg has been famous for its porcelain products, it is best to go to the specialized store Porzellanmanufaktur Augarten to buy them . This store offers beautiful tableware and other tableware made of high-quality porcelain. Wealthy buyers will be able to purchase rich hand-painted tableware, and economical tourists will find affordable salt shakers and other original trinkets.
Walking through the historic district, you can visit the Höllrigl bookstore . It is the oldest in the city, in this bookstore today all popular novelties are sold, as well as a lot of interesting tourist products. The store always has a decent selection of guidebooks with descriptions of the city’s attractions, you can buy beautiful postcards and calendars, as well as other popular souvenirs.
In the very center of the Old Town is the original Christmas in Salzburg store , where you can buy beautiful Christmas decorations and Christmas souvenirs at any time of the year. This store is impressive with its scale, its goods are presented in pavilions on five floors. Cute angels of various shapes and sizes, stars and hearts decorated with sequins, garlands and Christmas tree balls of all colors of the rainbow – you can choose accessories here for any taste and wallet. It is also worth noting that many of the jewelry presented here are handmade, the store will appeal to fans of exclusive souvenirs.
