Salzburg, on the Salzach River, the former site of a Roman town, is set against a pristine mountain backdrop. The city was named after the early residents who earned their living in the region’s salt mines. Mozart was born here in 1756 and the city’s association with the composer continues to draw a multitude of tourists.

Salzburg, a city of 17th and 18th Century houses, is recognised for its architectural grandeur. The Salzburg Cathedral is one outstanding example. Several beautiful castles and palaces also dot the city: Hohensalzburg Fortress, the Residenz palace and Schloss Hellbrunn, 5kms south of the city, a summer residence of former prince-archbishops.

The city is the setting for The Salzburg Festival, a world-renowned annual event that attracts music lovers, especially Mozart fans, from all over the globe. The hills around Salzburg were also the setting for one of the world’s most instantly recognisable films - The Sound of Music!

Since the end of World War II, Salzburg was a part of the American zone and economic development began right at the end of the war, giving the city a 10-year head start over the remaining regions of Austria and cementing its links with the USA.

When to travel to Salzburg

Salzburg, has long, dry, snow-laden winters and short, hot summers. Summer is a busy and exciting season, thanks partly to the Salzburg Festival. In winter a ski shuttle service ferries snow lovers to surrounding resorts and in town, December brings a world of Christmas markets, glühwein, and carols.