Fortress Hohensalzburg

Just a short cable car ride from the city you’ll find the impressive Festung Hohensalzburg, a name which translates to “High Salzburg Fortress.” Visit this walled castle to browse art exhibitions and museums and shop at the outdoor market. If you’re lucky there may be a concert on during your visit. This is a great family outing for an afternoon.

Built in 1077 by Archbishop Gebhard, Festung Hohensalzburg has served as a fort, a private residence, a prison and military barracks. Today, the city views and well-preserved regency rooms make this well-preserved castle one of Salzburg’s most popular attractions.

As you tour the rooms of one of Europe’s largest medieval castles, you’ll see where royalty once dined and slept. Admire the detailed Gothic wood carvings adorning the walls of the Golden Hall. Look up to see a ceiling beam painted with Archbishop Leonhard von Keutschach’s coat of arms: a regal lion holding a beetroot (or turnip). You’ll notice this symbol in over 50 different places around the fortress. The Golden Chamber is where you’ll find lavish furnishings befitting a king.

You can either tour this massive fortress on your own, or with the help of an audio guide that explains various aspects of the rooms, torture chamber and battlements. Climb the Reckturm watchtower for the best panoramic views of the city and surrounding area. There are three museums to explore, including the Marionette Museum displaying puppets from the Salzburg Marionette Theatre.

The site hosts a number of cultural events during the heavily touristed summer months. Art exhibitions are held from June to September. There’s also a series of Salzburg Fortress Concerts that take place in the medieval chambers. Check the Festung Hohensalzburg website for a schedule of concerts and other events.

Festung Hohensalzburg is situated on the eastern end of Mönchsberg mountain, a short walk from Salzburg’s Old Town. The cable railway, which runs every 10 minutes, takes you up the mountain in just minutes. Alternatively, walk up Festungsgasse lane until you reach the fortress courtyard. Festung Hohensalzburg is open daily.