Branching across the Salzach River, Salzburg conjures nostalgia by the bucket-load. On its left bank lies the Altstadt (Old City), an area characterised by its medieval spires and cobbled boulevards. And on the right bank is the Neustadt (New City), which, despite its name, boasts some of the finest 19th-century architecture in Europe. The result is a city that’s imposing and magical in equal measure, and one prime for cultural exploration.
Trace the steps of Wolfgang Mozart along the fabled Getreidegasse, savour the vistas of Hohensalzburg Castle, or sip Elderberry schnapps on the banks of the Salzach. The cultural highlights and boundless heritage of this Austrian city make for effortless sightseeing, and you’ll travel to its very heart as part of a luxury Scenic river cruise.
Medieval, Baroque, Neo-Classical; Salzburg offers an architectural masterclass like no other, showcasing some of the finest buildings in Europe.
Austria, Germany and the Alps have all had a hand in shaping the Salzburg we know and love today, and, of course, there’s no forgetting the lasting influence of one Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart.
Visit Salzburg in September or December, and experience the beauty of the Residenzplatz Market. Taking place in the magnificent public square of Salzburg’s majestic New Residence palace, the Residenzplatz Market takes place just twice a year - once in September to mark the celebration of Saint Rupert’s Fair, and again at Christmastime. The Christkindlmarkt is a particularly enchanting affair, with the entire square transformed to mark the festive occasion.
Pass along Salzburg’s historic Getreidegasse, and you’ll find a clutch of tourists taking photographs of a very specific building. This is Getreidegasse 9, Mozart’s birthplace, where his family lived on the third floor from 1747 to 1773. Now a museum, the building houses an incredible variety of artifacts, including Mozart’s childhood violin and early editions of his music. The street itself is one of the oldest in Salzburg, with many of the buildings built in the 12th century.
If you’re keen to explore Salzburg, Scenic can get you there in complete luxury and comfort. A handful of our Danube river cruises give you the opportunity to experience Salzburg as part of a Scenic Freechoice excursion, transporting you to the heart of Austria’s fairy-tale second city. To find out more, download our latest European river cruise brochure or call us on 0808 252 5111.