Salzburg, Austria’s ‘City of Mozart’, is one of Europe’s most enchanting spots. Nestled at the foot of the Alps, this baroque city blends music, history and breathtaking scenery. You could be strolling along cobblestone streets or admiring those amazing alpine views – Salzburg really does have something for every type of traveller. 

Whether you’re heading to Salzburg on a whimsical Jet2CityBreak  or taking a Jet2.com flight there to hit the slopes, no visit would be complete without seeing these iconic sights and top landmarks. See how many you can weave into your winter trip itinerary! 

Hohensalzburg Fortress 

Perched high above the city, the Hohensalzburg Fortress is one of the largest and best-preserved medieval castles in Europe. It has a real fairytale feel to it, especially when it’s sprinkled with snow! Ride the funicular up the hill or get your steps in and take the steep walking route to enjoy sweeping views of Salzburg below and the surrounding Alps. Inside, you’ll find fascinating exhibits on medieval life, collections of armour and weapons and the grand Princes’ chambers. 

Handy hint: Every Sunday at 11:45, fanfares and festive processions ring down to the old town thanks to the tower brass players! Listen out for it if you’re visiting on this day. 

Getreidegasse 

Getreidegasse is Salzburg’s most famous shopping street and is the perfect place to while away the afternoon just wandering along and bobbing in and out of the boutiques. It’s lined with wrought-iron signs and pastel-coloured buildings, so it’s as pretty as they come too. Grab a coffee and enjoy a spot of souvenir shopping.  

Don’t miss out: If you’re visiting during Advent, it gets even more special! Between Getreidegasse and Griesgasse, in front of the Sternbräu, you’ll find the Star Advent and a charming Christmas market. Browse the wooden stalls filled with traditional handicrafts and trinkets, and treat yourself to something delicious to eat as you go around. 

Salzburg Cathedral 

The Salzburg Cathedral, AKA Dom zu Salzburg, is a baroque masterpiece at the heart of the city’s historic Old Town. Step inside to admire its soaring dome, stunning frescoes and ornate organ – where Mozart himself once played (more on that later)! It’s here you’ll find the city’s famous Christmas markets that sparkle with festive charm. Stalls filled with ornaments, crafts and treats line the historic Cathedral Square, and you can sip a mulled wine while listening to angelic carollers.  

It showcases a fairytale atmosphere with plenty of festive treats to enjoy amidst the baroque architecture and views of the majestic Hohensalzburg fortress. There’s a whole host of events and activities to enjoy, including live music, choirs and family-friendly fun. Mulled wine, anyone? 

Mozart’s birthplace 

No trip to Salzburg is complete without exploring the legacy of its most famous son. Mozart’s Birthplace, AKA Mozart’s Geburtshaus, in Getreidegasse is now a museum showcasing his childhood instruments, letters and portraits. His later residence just across the river gives more insight into his adult life and world-renowned compositions. 

Handy info: Tickets cost €15 for adults and €4.50 for children.  

Mirabell Palace and Gardens 

Built in the 17th century, Mirabell Palace is now home to municipal offices, but its gardens steal the show. With immaculately trimmed hedges, statues and fountains, it’s a photographer’s dream. Fan of The Sound of Music? You might just recognise the Pegasus Fountain and steps where Maria and the children sang ‘Do-Re-Mi'!  

Why not recreate your own blockbuster scene and snap some souvenir pics of this iconic setting? 

Silent Night Chapel 

Fancy a trip out of the city? Head north for 30 minutes and you’ll arrive in Oberndorf, home to the Silent Night Chapel. It stands on the site where the beloved Christmas carol was first performed in 1818. This small, round memorial chapel honours Franz Xaver Gruber and Joseph Mohr, the song’s creators, and draws visitors worldwide who come to celebrate peace, history and tradition. It costs €5 to enter. 

Fact: A memorial carol service is held annually at 5pm on Christmas Eve to commemorate the song’s creators. 

St. Peter’s Abbey and cemetery 

Tucked away at the foot of the Hohensalzburg fortress, St. Peter’s Abbey is one of the oldest monasteries in the German-speaking world, dating back to the 7th century. Its peaceful cemetery is stunning, with ornate ironwork and flower-covered graves. Go underground to discover the eerie catacombs carved into the rock.  

Salzburg Residenz 

The Salzburg Residenz, once home to the city’s powerful prince-archbishops, is a grand palace on Residenzplatz. Its opulent state rooms showcase baroque and classical art, while the Residenzgalerie displays masterpieces by European painters. A visit here will reveal Salzburg’s rich history, political influence, and artistic heritage. 

Whether you’re here for Mozart, The Sound of Music or simply to soak up Austrian charm during winter, these top sights will make your trip unforgettable... 

Saalbach Hinterglemm, Zell am See-Kaprun & Salzburger Sportwelt 

Fancy hitting the slopes? While you’re in Salzburg, why not head to the mountains for the day and tick off some of the area’s most-famed pistes? Expect a magical mix of alpine charm and world-class slopes. In less than an hour’s drive from the city, you’ll find Salzburger Sportwelt, boasting 350km of pistes and more than 90 lifts! Around 1.5 hours south-west of the city, you’ll find Saalbach Hinterglemm, and just below that is Zell Am See-Kaprun. 

Want even more choice? You can also explore the snow-sure spots of Obertauern, Hochkönig and Gastein too!