Salzburg, Austria is often called the “Rome of the North,” and I can totally understand why. The city’s skyline is filled with many historical buildings that were inspired by the architecture in Rome.
There is so much to see in Salzburg, so I recommend at least 2-3 days in the city. We spent two days there and I would’ve liked to have more time. I hope that this two day itinerary helps you on your future trips to the beautiful city!
DAY 1
Mozart Residence
In the New Town, the Mozart-Wohnhaus is the house where the Mozart family lived for some time. It’s now a museum where you can learn more about Wolfgang Mozart’s father and family, rather than Wolfgang himself. I personally found it to be underwhelming and not worth the steep price, so I recommend just passing by and taking a photo.
Makartsteg
Take the Makartsteg, my favourite bridge, across the river. It is pedestrian-only and filled with love locks!
Mozart’s Birthplace
We didn’t end up going into Mozarts Geburtshaus (birthplace) but I think I would have enjoyed it more than the Mozart-Wohnhaus, as it has authentically reconstructed rooms. If you happen to visit, let me know how it is!
University Square and Residenzplatz
Directly underneath Mozarts Geburtshaus, there is a little passageway that leads into University Square. Grünmarkt, Salzburg’s farmer’s market, will be set up here for most of the day but it is closed on Sundays.
Make your way to the Residenzplatz, Salzburg’s most famous square.
Salzburg Cathedral
Visit the impressive Salzburg Cathedral, the centerpiece of the city. Wolfgang Mozart was baptized here and later played the church’s massive organ. You can also visit the crypt.
Kapitelplatz and St Peter’s Cemetery
Pass through the Kapitelplatz on your way to St Peter’s Cemetery, founded in 700 AD. This is one of the most beautiful and unique cemeteries I have ever seen. Make sure to walk up the steps into the catacombs, which are built into one of Salzburg’s mountains. Up there you will have a beautiful view of Salzburg and the cemetery.
Monchsberg Lift
For the best view of the city, take the Monchsberg Lift up to Salzburg’s Museum of Modern Art. There, you will find a famous terrace.
Getreidegasse
After you’ve made your way back down the lift, take Getreidegasse on your way home. This is such a cute shopping street and also a UNESCO World Heritage Site!
DAY 2
St Sebastian’s Cemetery
In the New Town, head to St Sebastian’s Cemetery where Wolfgang Mozart’s father and wife are buried.
Hohensalzburg Fortress
Make your way towards Kapitelplatz where you will find the Festungsbahn, a funicular that will take you up to Hohensalzburg Fortress. At the top of the mountain, the castle courtyard has wonderful views of Salzburg. Make sure to tour the inside of the castle, which was built in 1077.
Nonnberg Abbey
Take the walking path down from Hohensalzburg toward Nonnberg Abbey convent. Pass through a beautiful small cemetery and take a look at the inside of the Abbey.
Salzburg Residenz
Make your way over to the Salzburg Residenz and tour the beautiful halls and former private apartments of Salzburg’s prince-archbishops. The tour will also bring you to the upper floor of the Salzburg Cathedral, where you have an excellent view of the church and can stand right under the organ.
Mirabell Palace and Gardens
Head back to the New Town to walk around the stunning Mirabell Gardens. Don’t miss the vine tunnel, hedge maze, Dwarf Gnome Park and views of the city from the rose garden.
Inside the palace, make sure to take the beautiful “Angel Staircase” up to the famous Marble Hall, where Wolfgang Mozart would play private concerts as a child.
Some additional Salzburg sites to visit are:
- Salzburg Museum
- Kapuzinerberg
- Haus der Natur Salzburg
- Salzburg Zoo
If you will be visiting most of the sites mentioned in this article, many of them are included in the Salzburg Card: https://www.salzburg.info/en/hotels-offers/salzburg-card
I hope you enjoyed this 2-day itinerary for Salzburg!
To read my blog post, “A Self-Guided ‘The Sound of Music’ Tour of Salzburg,” click here.
To read my blog post, “What and Where to Eat in Salzburg, Austria,” click here.
