Salzburg is an Austrian city on the border of Germany, with spectacular views of the Eastern Alps.

The birthplace of the composer Mozart, the city is full of baroque churches, cobbled market squares and has a touch of historical magic with its huge variety of profound architecture.

Must sees for free

Mirabell Palace and Gardens is one of the most sought after wedding venues in Europe.

This former palace now houses government offices but most people will recognise them as the gardens where the von Trapp children sang ‘Do-Re-Mi’ in the Sound of Music.

The gardens and grounds are free to enter all year round.

The uniquely-designed Salzburg cathedral was constructed in the early 17th century and was the site of Mozart's baptism in 1756.

Although beautifully ornate on the outside, the interior is simply spectacular, with impossibly high ceilings and intricate artwork.

The cathedral is free to enter but donations are encouraged.

The cathedral has five organs which are still played today if you are lucky enough to hear while you are there, for a list of concerts and tickets visit salzburger-dom.at/konzerte/#.XeTrNdX7S70

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Salzburg's Old Town offers plenty to those wanting to soak up the city's beauty, elegance and stunning architecture. 

The baroque fountain in Residence Square is a tourist hotspot, while the neighbouring green copper spires and dome of Salzburg Cathedral are something to be marvelled from all angles. 

Wander the cobbled streets and shop at luxury stores and market stalls alike.

Top sees for a fee

For more than 400 years, Schloss Hellbrunn has delighted audiences with its spectacular water fountain and lights show. 

The show remains largely unchanged from that of four centuries ago with mysterious caves, water-driven figures and hidden jets providing water fun for all ages.

Tickets for adults are €12.50.

One of the best ways to see Salzburg is from the river Danube. 

Take a boat trip with Amphibious Splash Tours.

Hop aboard your sightseeing boat in Salzburg’s Old Town and cruise out onto the Salzach River with your guide. Gaze over the city’s medieval riverbanks on route to the 17th-century Hellbrunn Palace. 

From £12.99.

Fortress Hohensalzburg is one of the largest castle complexes in Europe and can be seen from almost all points in the centre of Salzburg. 

From the fortress itself the view of the surrounding mountains and buildings really is a must see.

Take a ride up in the funicular to see the Castle museum, Rainer Regiment museum, puppet museum, all with audio guide, for €12.90

Getting around

By far the best way to get around Salzburg is on foot, the streets are largely pedestrianised making it very easy to see all the sights within the city centre.

There is a very reliable tram and bus system, tickets cost €2.10 for a single journey if purchased from the driver or €1.90 if you buy from a ticket machine or Tabak stand.

Eating out and going out

With no fewer than 19 restaurants in the 2019 Michelin guide, Salzburg has no shortage of amazing restaurants. For a taste of the best try Ikarus, Brunnauer and Paradoxon.

For a cheaper and more authentic option, Augustiner Braustuebl has five big halls where you can sit and sample the lovely beer and delicious food. Sit outside in the summer and keep cozy and warm inside in the Winter, this place is filled with locals and tourists alike all year round.

For a truly memorable experience while you are in the city travel by cable car to the 900-year-old Fortress Hohensalzburg and enjoy a feast of traditional Austrian dishes. After dinner, head to the Golden Hall for a recital of Mozart’s most famous pieces by The Mozart Chamber Orchestra of Salzburg. From €68, find out more at salzburghighlights.at/en/

There are plenty of bars in Salzburg for all tastes, from the Irish pubs along the riverbank to the wine bars on the cobbled streets.

There are also nightclubs such as City Beats and specialist beer houses such as Gastlocal Fridrich.

Hotels

Luxury:Hotel Schloss Monchstein: If you have the budget to match Captain Von Trapp’s then look no further than this fabulous hotel. 

With panoramic views over the city, the smallest restaurant in the world, infinity pool, spa and all the luxury touches you’d expect from a five star, this hotel is in a class of its own.

Moenchsberg 26, from £323 - £819.

Mid-range:Hotel & Villa Auersperg is a charming boutique hotel with extraordinary style and ambience.

With a bar and lounge, rooftop terrace and a spa, the facilities are just as impressive as the homely and modern rooms and luscious gardens within the hotel.

Auerspergstrasse 61, £130 - £279.

Budget:Meininger Hotel Salzburg City Center is located away from the noisy city centre and at the foot of the green hills overlooking the city.

Its spacious and modern rooms are perfect for families and the hotel has everything you could ask for for a comfortable stay while you explore the city.

Furbergstrasse 18 - 20, £37 - £143.

Fact box

Currency: Euros £1 = €1.16

Time zone: GMT +1 hr (GMT +2 hrs in summer)

Flight time: 2hrs 20mins from £86 direct with Jet2

Best time to visit: Much like our own weather, the summer months are a warm 25 degrees but for sightseeing you are best visiting in Spring or Autumn when the crowds have dispersed. December is also a great time to visit so you can visit the traditional Christmas Markets.

Visas/injections/precautions: None.