Salzburg delivers Mozart's birthplace and The Sound of Music's filming locations within a walkable, compact city center. A 48-hour itinerary hits the essentials without overwhelming visitors.
Start in the Altstadt, Salzburg's Old Town, where Mozart was born in 1756. The Getreidegasse, a narrow shopping street lined with wrought-iron signs, leads to Mozart's Birthplace museum. Entry costs around €12 and takes 90 minutes. The baroque architecture frames Instagram-worthy angles at every corner.
Cross the Salzach River to the newer Neustadt district. Mirabellgarten, the palace gardens where the von Trapp children danced, sprawls across manicured lawns. Entry is free. The Sound of Music tours depart regularly from the city center, running roughly €30 per person and lasting four hours.
Hohensalzburg Fortress dominates the skyline above the city. Cable cars ascend in five minutes for €10 round-trip. The fortress interior reveals medieval rooms and panoramic views across the Alpine foothills toward Bavaria.
For dining, Restaurant Afanz in the Neustadt serves Austrian classics. Main courses run €18-28. Cafe Tomaselli, operating since 1705, offers coffee and strudel in the Altstadt for under €10.
Hotels span budget to luxury. Hotel Goldener Hirsch, a five-star property, charges €400-600 nightly. Budget travelers find rooms at YOHO Salzburg for €40-70 per night. The city's public transport pass covers 48 hours for €28.
Salzburg sits 2.5 hours from Munich by train, or visitors fly into Salzburg Airport with connections from major European hubs. Lufthansa