Hohensalzburg Fortress

Hohensalzburg Fortress
Hohensalzburg Fortress in Salzburg, Austria is an amazing place. You will love it at first sight! Hohensalzburg Fortress stands 120 meters above the Salz River and the baroque towers of the city. The citadel dates from the XI century and is one of the best-preserved fortresses in Europe. Hence, Hohensalzburg has become a symbol of Salzburg. The Fortress is located in the center of the Old Town, which is not accessible by car. There you can fully enjoy a serene and cozy atmosphere. I advise you to reach the fort by funicular, but you can also take a walk to it.

Hohensalzburg is a favorite spot for both locals and tourists. In addition to the beautiful sights, you can see unique museums at the fort. The museums host regular events – most often concerts and festivals. The fortress is truly amazing during the summer months. At night, it becomes a magical place with its fairy lights.

See more Top Attractions in Salzburg

What to see there?

The funicular

If you want to go on an adventure and enjoy pleasant views, climb to the fort with the funicular. It is the oldest one in Austria. The cable car was made in 1892 and was initially powered by water. Today, it is driven by much more advanced technology and meets all requirements for comfort and safety.

The museum at the Fortress

The museum provides a view of the history of Salzburg and the fort function. It displays artifacts from the medieval collections of the Salzburg Museum and large-scale media installations. The tour of the 12 rooms runs as a series of themes that illustrate different aspects of the Middle Ages – the art, culture, and history of Salzburg. There you will see interesting exhibits, including Roman coins, ceramic and kitchen utensils, weapons, and even torture appliances.

Rainer Museum

The museum was established in 1924 in memory of the Imperial and Royal Infantry Regiment “Archduke Rainer” no. 59, whose history dates back to 1682.

Doll Museum

Explore the marvelous world of puppets. There are many exhibits in the museum from the world-renowned Puppet Theater in Salzburg. The place is interesting for both children and adults.

The Magical Theater

Experience a true journey in the Middle Ages! Check out some of Europe’s best-preserved Gothic secular buildings and learn interesting stories about the rulers of Salzburg and their nationals. The multimedia exhibition and the magic theater will make your visit unforgettable!

Places to eat

After a stroll through the fort, you can eat at the Burgschenke Tavern or the Hohensalzburg Restaurant. The food is delicious and the beautiful views of Salzburg will make the experience even more enjoyable.

What do you need to know before visiting the Hohensalzburg Fortress?

  • Open during the whole year, without day-offs. There are different summer and winter business hours.
  • The busiest time of the year is in July and August.
  • It is best to buy your ticket in advance.
  • You can take your dog with you to the outdoor parts of the fort, but you must keep it on a leash. The pet must wear a muzzle in the funicular.

Tickets

If you buy your ticket online, you will save on its regular price. If you pick up your early visit ticket before 10:00, you will receive an additional discount.

  • All-Inclusive Ticket – includes a ride to the fort and back with the funicular, a visit to the Magic Theater, the Museum of the Fortress, the Rainer Museum, the Doll Museum, and an audio guide tour.
  • Basic Ticket – Includes everything from the All-Inclusive Ticket without the Magic Theater.

Discounts are available for children between 6 and 14 years old, groups of more than 10 people, and families with at least two children.

Tours

If you are a group of 10 or more people, you can take part in any of the Fortress tours.

  • School Tours – Kids will learn interesting details of the history of the fort and its purpose over the centuries.
  • Family Tours – Have fun with your kids and learn something new together. It will make your visit to the fort an unforgettable adventure.

You can rely on a special children’s audio guide in English, German and Italian.

Accessibility

The closest disabled parking spaces are located at Residenzplatz 9 (6 parking spaces), Toscaninihof 1 (3 parking spaces) and Max-Reinhardt-Platz (10 parking spaces). People on wheelchairs can reach the fort by the funicular. Access to the courtyard is hassle-free, unlike the indoor areas of the Fortress. Guide dogs are welcome. Video guides are available for hearing impaired visitors. People with a degree of disability of over 70% and their companions get free access to the fort.

More top Attractions in Salzburg:

Salzburg – the city
Salzburg Cathedral
Mirabell Palace and Gardens
Hellbrunn Castle
Mozart House Museum
DomQuartier