Alternative Sights to See
The following sites are some of the more unique or off the beaten track sites to see in Salzburg.
Hellbrunn Palace and trick fountains
Fürstenweg 37, 5020 Salzburg
Just outside Salzburg you can find the ornate Hellbrunn Palace and its spectacular Wasserspiele, or trick fountains! Built by Markus Sittikus, the Archbishop of Salzburg, in 1615, the palace was intended as a pleasure palace, a luxury villa away from the prying eyes of Salzburg where Sittikus could entertain, celebrate and relax. Along with the construction of the villa, the good humoured Sittikus commissioned the construction of wonderous water gardens, featuring incredible water automats, enchanting grottos, an astonishing mechanical theatre and of course the mischievous trick fountains.
The water automats are found in five separate grottos and feature moving figures enacting scenes from Greek and Roman mythology. In the water grottos, hear realistic bird sounds and spot Germaul with his rolling eyes and poking tongue. The intricate mechanical theatre features 163 moving figures bringing to life a complex Baroque scene. Don’t miss the ornate marble dining table with its stools ready to spray anyone who dared to leave the table before the Archbishop.
Throughout the gardens are countless hidden water spouts and fountains, ready to surprise, amuse and yes, sometimes douse those walking through. While exploring the gardens, take some time to appreciate the incredible mechanical achievement needed to build these amazing fountains and figures and how remarkable it is that 400 years later the unique water-driven system still functions.
Hellbrunn Palace is located approximately 5km south of the Old Town. From the city centre you can catch Bus 25 to the Palace, which takes 25 minutes. There is also parking on site for those with a car.
Tickets are €13.50 and include an audio guide tour of the trick fountains as well as the palace.
Sound of Music Tour
The Sound of Music film was released in 1965 and went on to become a motion picture phenomenon. Based on the true story of the Von Trapp family, the much loved film was filmed throughout the Salzburg region. Still today, thousands of people visit the city see the iconic locations where the movie was filmed. Some of the filming locations can be found right in the city, including: the Mirabell Palace and Gardens, including the Pegasus Fountain and Dwarf Garden; Residenz Square, with its impressive horse fountain; and the Mozart Footbridge. Other sites are further afield including: Leopoldskron Palace, its lakeside location the site for the rear of the Von Trapp house; Frohnburg Palace, as the location of the front of the Von Trapp house; Nonnberg Abbey, the Abbey where Maria lived; Hellbrunn Palace, where the famous gazebo from “Sixteen Going on Seventeen” is now located; and Mondsee Abbey, where Maria and the Baron were married. There are several tour options available including by bus, bicycle or private tour. Taking a Sound of Music tour is a lovely way to explore more of the Salzburg region and learn about one of the most beloved films of all time. One look at the gorgeous scenery on offer and you’ll be full of song too!
The Mönchsberg
The Mönchsberg is a mountain in the centre of Salzburg. Rising sharply up from the adjacent Old Town, the Mönchsberg provides a tranquil green space high above the city with numerous walking paths, the Museum der Moderne and spectacular views.
Take in the wonderous views across the Old Town, spot the numerous Baroque church spires and domes, and gaze up towards the imposing Hohensalzburg Fortress sitting high on the Festungsburg. From atop the Mönchsberg you can see for miles in each direction and fully comprehend the beauty of Salzburg, its winding river and surrounding green rolling hills.
To reach the Mönchsberg you can walk up the winding footpath, taking in the gorgeous views along the way. Or, you can take the Mönchsberglift, which rises directly from Anton-Neumayr-Platz in the Old Town, and takes you to the viewing platform at the Museum der Moderne. Tickets are €2.60 one way or €3.90 return.
Linzergasse
On the east side of the Salzach River, the New Town side, you’ll find the popular shopping street, Linzergasse. The road has existed since Roman times and for centuries was the main road out of Salzburg towards the city of Linz, thus its name, Linzergasse. Like its sister street through the Old Town, Getreidegasse, Linzergasse is a picturesque pedestrianised shopping street with historic 14th and 15 century houses and shops. Once home to artisans and craftsmen, today you are more likely to find trendy boutiques, cafes and restaurants though some of the ancient trades do still exist. Much quieter than Getreidegasse and more popular with locals, it’s a lovely street to wander and a great reason to venture further afield from the central Old Town sights.
Christmas Markets
Christmas time is special in Salzburg. There’s a chill in the air, snow gently falls from the sky and the clip clop sound of a horse and carriage nears. The delicious smell of mulled wine and roasted chestnuts wafts through the air and twinkling lights hang high above the ancient cobblestoned streets. Up ahead is the traditional Christmas market, in the same square since the 15th century, beneath the Hohensalzburg Fortress. The traditional market huts sell a plethora of tempting wares including, tree ornaments, woodwork, glassware, jewellery, knitwear, candles and artworks. Stalls sell delicious grilled meats, pastries, beer and gluhwein while smiling locals and tourists alike gather around heaters and fires to warm themselves and pass on good tidings. On select nights, choirs sing and traditional wind music is performed. It truly is a magical time of year.
Christmas markets are held in several locations around Salzburg including: in Residenz Square, at Hellbrunn Palace and at Mirabell Square. The markets typically begin in late November and run until December 26.
