We departed Munich early that morning – next stop, Salzburg, Austria, a city I’d been excited about since the moment I booked this trip. I knew Salzburg was famous for Mozart and The Sound of Music, but I had no idea just how much history, beauty, and charm were packed into this compact Alpine city. Salzburg is one of those places that feels like a storybook the moment you arrive: baroque domes, pastel buildings, cobblestone lanes, and a literal fortress perched dramatically above it all.
Before I get into my day, here’s a little context. Salzburg is renowned worldwide as the birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, one of the most influential composers in Western music history. It’s also the iconic filming location for The Sound of Music, which continues to draw fans from around the world decades after its release. And 2025 made the city feel even more alive with nostalgia – this year marked the 60th anniversary of the film, bringing renewed excitement, special events, and an extra layer of celebration throughout Salzburg. The city’s Old Town – known locally as the Altstadt – is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, celebrated for its blend of Italian and German architectural influences and its remarkably preserved baroque character.
With that foundation, stepping into Salzburg felt like stepping into a living museum.
Walking the Altstadt: A UNESCO Treasure
Upon arrival, we met our local guide for a walking tour of the Old Town. The Altstadt has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1996, and it’s easy to see why. Every corner looks like it belongs on a postcard, and the layers of history are visible everywhere you turn.
One of our first stops was the University of Salzburg, originally founded in 1622. It’s wild to think students have been studying here for over 400 years. From there, we made our way to St. Peter’s Abbey, which has been operating in some form since 696. Yes, you read that right – over 1,300 years of continuous monastic life. It’s the oldest monastery in German‑speaking Europe, and it still feels like a quiet sanctuary tucked into the heart of the city.
We continued through a trio of Salzburg’s most famous squares:
- Kapitelplatz – once the site of the Cathedral Abbey
- Residenzplatz – former home of the Prince‑Archbishops of Salzburg
- Alter Markt – the historic marketplace where locals once gathered for weekly trading
Each square had its own personality, and each one felt like a snapshot of Salzburg’s past.
Mozart’s Birthplace & Salzburg Cathedral
No trip to Salzburg is complete without acknowledging its most famous son. We walked past the bright yellow façade of Mozarts Geburtshaus, Mozart’s birthplace and childhood home. Even from the outside, it’s striking – cheerful, bold, and impossible to miss. Inside, it now houses a museum dedicated to his early life, but even just seeing it from the street felt special.
Next, we stepped into the Salzburg Cathedral (Salzburger Dom). The current Baroque structure dates back to the 17th century, but the site’s history stretches all the way to 774, when Saint Rupert founded the original church atop the remnants of an old Roman town. The interior was stunning – ornate, bright, and filled with intricate details that made you want to stand still and just take it all in.
Choosing My Own Adventure: Sound of Music Tour or Solo Exploring?
After the tour, we had free time. Throughout the week, several people in our group had been talking about their love for The Sound of Music. Our guide Joclyn, being the rockstar she is, called up a friend who runs Sound of Music tours and managed to get our group a last‑minute booking. Almost everyone jumped at the chance.
Except me.
I know of the movie. I’ve seen clips. But I honestly don’t know if I’ve ever watched it all the way through. I know, I know – cue the gasps. But when the choice was between a movie‑themed tour or an afternoon exploring Salzburg on my own, the decision was easy.
Because there is a freaking fortress in Salzburg.
Hohensalzburg Fortress: The Crown of the City
I made a beeline for Hohensalzburg Fortress (Festung Hohensalzburg), one of the largest fully preserved medieval fortresses in Europe. Perched high above the city on Festungsberg hill, it dates back to the 11th century and has been expanded over the centuries into the massive stronghold it is today.
The weather was perfect – blue skies, crisp air, and sunshine that made the city below glow. I took the funicular up the hill and spent my time wandering the fortress grounds at my own pace. The views were unreal. You can see the entire Old Town, the Salzach River winding through the city, and the Alps rising dramatically in the distance.
Exploring the fortress felt like stepping into a medieval world. Stone courtyards, towers, ramparts, and sweeping vistas – it was everything I love about European history wrapped into one experience. I could have stayed up there all day.
Bread, Graveyards & Mozart Candy: The Perfect Solo Afternoon
Eventually, I made my way back down into the city center and continued exploring. That’s when I stumbled upon the oldest bakery in Salzburg. Obviously, I had to go in. I bought a small loaf of bread, and let me tell you – it was SO GOOD. I was genuinely tempted to go back for more.
I wandered through a very old graveyard tucked inside a still‑active monastery, the kind of peaceful, historic place that makes you slow down and reflect. I passed several Mozart‑themed shops, including one selling the real Mozartkugel (Mozart candy). Naturally, I tried one. When in Salzburg, right?
After hours of walking, I found a small local café and settled in with a coffee and apple strudel. It was the perfect way to rest my feet and soak in the atmosphere before meeting back up with the group.
When everyone returned from their Sound of Music tour, they were glowing – they had a great time. But I wasn’t even a little bit jealous. That’s the beauty of group travel: you can choose your own adventure and tailor your day to what you want.
Skipping the Mozart Concert & Choosing Rest
That evening, there was an optional Mozart Concert and Dinner. I didn’t sign up for it when booking the trip – probably because it was $155 and lasted 4.5 hours. Those who went basically had to get ready and leave as soon as we got back to the hotel.
Meanwhile, I was exhausted from walking nonstop all day. So instead of rushing off to another activity, I took a long, relaxing bath to soothe my aching legs. Zero regrets.
FAQ: Salzburg Travel Questions Answered
Q: Is Salzburg worth visiting if you’re not a Sound of Music fan? A: While The Sound of Music is a major draw, Salzburg stands firmly on its own with its baroque architecture, UNESCO‑listed Old Town, fortress, cathedrals, and rich musical history.
Q: What is Hohensalzburg Fortress known for? A: Hohensalzburg Fortress is one of Europe’s largest and best‑preserved medieval fortresses, offering panoramic views of Salzburg and the Alps.
Q: What are the must‑see landmarks in Salzburg? A: Mozart’s Birthplace, Salzburg Cathedral, St. Peter’s Abbey, Hohensalzburg Fortress, Residenzplatz, Kapitelplatz, and the Altstadt are top highlights.
Q: Is Salzburg walkable? A: Very. The Old Town is compact, pedestrian‑friendly, and easy to explore in a day.
Q: Should I do a Sound of Music tour? A: If you love the movie, yes. If not, you’ll still find plenty to do – fortresses, bakeries, cafés, museums, and scenic viewpoints.
More photos below. Click to view.
Solo-ish Journeys 
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