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The 16 Best Tours in Salzburg
Salzburg isn’t just a pretty face—this city is a treasure trove of sights and stories, waiting to be uncovered through a variety of engaging tours. Whether you’re a fan of "The Sound of Music", a classical music lover, or eager to explore picturesque villages like Hallstatt, Salzburg offers something for all. We love how many tours combine cultural highlights with practical planning, like the Original Sound of Music Tour, which brings the movie magic to life while taking you through real landmarks.
For those craving an immersive experience, Salzburg’s concerts, such as the Mozart Concert at Mirabell Palace, blend music, history, and stunning architecture. And if scenic landscapes are your thing, the Half-Day Tour to Hallstatt offers unforgettable lakeside vistas. With so many options, you're sure to find a tour that fits your style—and your schedule.
Quick Overview
Salzburg’s best tours span a mix of cultural, scenic, and culinary experiences. You can learn about the "Sound of Music" magic with the original tour, enjoy classical music at the Mirabell Palace concert, or venture out on day trips like Hallstatt and the Eagle’s Nest. Culinary fans will appreciate hands-on classes such as Apple Strudel Cooking and Christmas cookie lessons. Each tour offers something unique—read on to discover the details.
1. Salzburg: Original Sound of Music Tour
This tour is a hit for movie fans and history lovers alike. Starting from Hubert-Sattler-Gasse 1, you’ll visit iconic filming locations used in The Sound of Music, such as Schloss Leopoldskron and Hellbrunn Palace Garden. Your guide will entertain with stories behind the scenes and sing along to soundtrack songs, creating an authentic and lively experience. The tour also weaves in Salzburg’s past, with stops at Nonnberg Abbey and St. Gilgen, plus a scenic stop in Mondsee.
Guests consistently praise the guide for being both knowledgeable and engaging. One reviewer called it “very moving,” remembering childhood memories, while others appreciated the mix of music, scenery, and landmarks. The four-hour tour is ideal for those wanting a fun, nostalgic excursion, with a small-group size ensuring a personalized experience.
Bottom line: This tour offers a perfect blend of scenery, history, and “The Sound of Music” magic. It’s especially suited for fans of the movie, families, or anyone eager to see Salzburg’s most photogenic spots.
2. Salzburg: Mozart Concert at Mirabell Palace
Set in the stunning Baroque Marble Hall at Mirabell Palace, this 1.5-hour concert delivers a refined dose of classical music. Renowned ensembles and soloists perform chamber works by Mozart and other great composers, filling the historic room with authentic sound. The compact size of the venue guarantees an intimate experience, with excellent acoustics and a regal atmosphere that complements the music perfectly.
Reviews rave about the fabulous performance and the fabulous setting—one caller described it as “one of the best experiences in Salzburg.” It’s a wonderful way to enjoy a cultural evening, whether you’re a classical aficionado or simply seeking a memorable night out. The ticket price includes the concert, and you can check upcoming schedules for availability.
Bottom line: For a culturally rich, elegant evening, this concert is hard to beat. Best for music lovers who appreciate history and intimate settings.
3. From Salzburg: Half-Day Tour to Hallstatt
If postcard-perfect villages are your thing, this half-day trip to Hallstatt is a highlight. The 5.5-hour tour whisks you through the scenic Salzkammergut region, passing by Fuschl and St. Gilgen. In Hallstatt, you’ll have about 2.5 hours to explore at leisure—ideal for wandering the lakeside streets and snapping photos of the houses clinging to the mountainside.
Visitors love this tour for its ease and efficiency; one reviewer said, “A perfect amount of time in Hallstatt,” recommending it especially for those who want a quick but meaningful visit. The optional skywalk offers breathtaking views, making it perfect for photographers. The tour includes a scenic ride, with the guide sharing great tips along the way.
Bottom line: This is a hassle-free way to see one of Europe’s most famous towns without the hassle of driving yourself—best suited for those with a limited schedule but big desire to see Hallstatt.
4. Austrian Apple Strudel Cooking Class including Lunch in Salzburg
For foodies, there’s nothing like rolling up your sleeves and making authentic Austrian desserts. This 1.5-hour class led by a professional chef guides you through crafting apple strudel and Salzburger Nockerl, with tips on pastry handling and presentation. You’ll also enjoy a hearty bowl of goulash soup before tasting your sweet creations, making it a delicious, hands-on experience.
Participants rave about the instructor, Johann, and the intimate setting—limited to five people—ensuring plenty of personal attention. One reviewer said, “Enjoyed making the apple strudel and Salzburger Nockerl,” praising both the fun atmosphere and the flavors. It’s perfect for small groups, couples, or anyone wanting to learn local culinary secrets.
Bottom line: If you want to combine learning with tasting, this class is a sweet way to spend part of your day. Suitable for all skill levels.
5. Salzburg: Hohensalzburg Fortress Admission Ticket
This ticket grants access to Salzburg’s most iconic landmark, the Hohensalzburg Fortress. Ride the funicular (if you choose) to enjoy quick, comfortable access, then explore the fortress’s medieval walls, Prince’s Chambers, and multimedia exhibits. The 360° panoramic views of Salzburg and the surrounding mountains are breathtaking, making this a must-visit.
Reviewers highlight the spectacular vistas and well-preserved interiors as a highlight. One wrote, “Views were priceless,” and many mention how easy it is to navigate the fortress with the ticket. The ticket is valid for a full day, so you can take your time and revisit parts of the fortress after the initial tour.
Bottom line: This provides a rich taste of Salzburg’s history with incredible city views. Best suited for history buffs, architecture fans, and those wanting a flexible self-guided experience.
6. Salzburg: Best of Mozart Fortress Concert and Dinner
Combine a Mozart concert with a 3-course dinner atop Hohensalzburg Fortress in this 3.5-hour experience. The concert features Mozart’s masterpieces and lesser-known works, performed by talented artists in a historic setting. The dinner, inspired by 18th-century recipes, adds a culinary dimension to the evening.
Guests rave about the spectacular location and the quality of the performance. One reviewer mentioned, “The vibe in the castle was just amazing,” and the combination of music and meal offers a memorable night. The evening begins with a funicular ride, included in the package.
Bottom line: Perfect for romantics and classical music fans who want a full evening of culture and scenery. Suitable for those looking for a special night out.
7. Salzburg Oldtown: Sightseeing Walking Tour with Licensed Local Guide
This 1.5-hour walking tour offers a quick yet thorough introduction to Salzburg’s Old Town. Led by a licensed guide, you’ll see Mozart’s birthplace, Salzburg Cathedral, Mirabell Gardens, and other key spots. The guide shares insider tips on where to eat and explore further.
Reviewers appreciate the personalized attention and the valuable tips. One said, “Annabelle made the tour interesting,” and many find it a great orientation for their stay. The small size (max 25 people) makes it easy to ask questions and get personalized recommendations.
Bottom line: An excellent way to get your bearings and discover Salzburg’s highlights efficiently. Ideal for first-timers or those with limited time.
8. Salzburg: Amphibious Splash Tour on Land & on Water
Experience Salzburg from two angles on this 1.5-hour amphibious vehicle tour. Starting from Hubert-Sattler-Gasse, you’ll cruise through the city streets and then splash into the Salzach River, combining land and water sightseeing seamlessly. Your guide shares fun facts along the way, making it engaging for all ages.
Reviewers mention how fun and innovative the ride is, with one calling it “a very unique experience.” It’s an easy way to see major sights like Hohensalzburg Fortress and get a sense of the city’s layout, especially for families or adventure-seekers.
Bottom line: A lively, family-friendly way to see Salzburg’s main sights with a splash of fun. Suitable for those wanting something different from standard bus or walking tours.
9. Eagle’s Nest and Berchtesgaden Tour from Salzburg
This 4.5-hour tour takes you into Bavaria’s mountains, to visit Hitler’s famous Eagle’s Nest and explore the charming town of Mondsee. The scenic drive offers panoramic mountain views, and the visit includes a chance to learn about WWII history with a knowledgeable guide.
Reviewers praise the organized, comfortable tour. One mentioned, “The Eagles Nest was interesting, and the views were spectacular,” despite some weather challenges. It’s a popular choice for those interested in history and scenery alike.
Bottom line: An enriching half-day trip for history buffs and mountain lovers. Best for travelers comfortable with a bit of a drive.
10. Salzburg: Mozart Concert with Dinner
Enjoy a candlelit dinner at the historic St. Peter Stiftskulinarium, paired with a concert of Mozart’s works performed by talented singers and musicians. The 2.5-hour experience combines fine cuisine with top-tier music in a setting that oozes old-world charm.
Reviewers rave about the delicious food and spectacular venue. One said, “The show and atmosphere were incredible,” and many note the intimate setting amplifies the musical experience. The dinner is inspired by 18th-century recipes, adding authenticity.
Bottom line: A romantic choice for music fans and food lovers seeking an elegant evening. Best suited for couples or celebrating special occasions.
11. Salzburg: Best of Mozart Fortress Concert
Set in the Hohensalzburg Fortress, this concert showcases Mozart’s most popular works performed by skilled artists. The 1.5-hour performance offers superb acoustics, a historic atmosphere, and spectacular views of Salzburg from the fortress walls.
Reviewers mention the talent of the ensemble and the ambience of the venue, with one noting, “The atmosphere in the fortress was magical.” The concert is flexible, with the funicular ride included, making it a seamless cultural outing.
Bottom line: Perfect for classical music lovers wanting a high-quality performance with a view. Ideal for those who enjoy historic settings.
12. Salzburg: Apple Strudel & Salzburger Nockerl Class
This hands-on cooking class offers a chance to learn how to make two iconic Austrian desserts. Under expert guidance, you’ll bake apple strudel and Salzburger Nockerl, then enjoy eating your creations. The class also includes insights into Austrian culinary traditions.
Participants appreciate the friendly instructor and the relaxed environment. One said, “The desserts turned out delicious,” and the experience is perfect for food lovers wanting to bring a taste of Salzburg home.
Bottom line: An engaging, tasty way to spend part of your day—great for families and couples alike.
13. Hallstatt Half-Day Tour from Salzburg
This 5.5-hour tour takes you from Salzburg into the Salzkammergut region, with a scenic drive through picturesque towns like Fuschl and St. Gilgen. You’ll have 2.5 hours free in Hallstatt to explore the village, visit museums, or take a boat ride on Lake Hallstatt.
Reviewers praise the well-organized itinerary and breathtaking scenery. One said, “The views from the Skywalk are amazing,” recommending it for those short on time but eager to see the region’s highlights.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers wanting a manageable taste of Hallstatt’s charm without a full-day commitment.
14. Salzburg Christmas Cookies and Apple Strudel Cooking Lesson
Get into the holiday spirit with this Christmas-themed baking class. Learn to make Vanilla Kipferl cookies and traditional apple strudel, plus enjoy a bowl of hot goulash soup. The 1.5-hour session is led by a friendly instructor, with all ingredients provided.
Reviews highlight the fun atmosphere and delicious results. One contributor said, “Brilliant and fun—perfect for Christmas,” making it great for families or anyone wanting a festive experience.
Bottom line: A warm, interactive activity that results in tasty souvenirs. Perfect for holiday travelers or winter visits.
15. Salzburg: Hallstatt and Sound of Music Tour
This full-day excursion combines Scenic Hallstatt with a Sound of Music tour. Starting with a visit to Hallstatt’s stunning lakeside, the tour then takes you around Salzburg’s iconic film locations, including Mondsee. The 10-hour day includes transportation, storytelling, and plenty of photo stops.
Guests love the combination of experiences, with one reviewer calling it “a fantastic way to see both the Alps and Salzburg’s musical heritage.” The tour is perfect for those who want a comprehensive taste of Austria’s scenery and culture.
Bottom line: For travelers with a full day, this tour offers a rich, memorable day combining natural beauty and film history.
16. Salzburg: Old Town, Mozart, & Mirabell Gardens Walking Tour
This 2-hour guided walk takes you through Salzburg’s core, from Mirabell Gardens to Mozart’s birthplace. Led by a licensed guide, you’ll see the main sights, learn about Mozart’s life, and get tips on where to explore afterward.
Reviewers appreciate the excellent pace and knowledgeable guide. One said, “Very informative and charming,” making it a favorite for first-time visitors who want a quick yet rundown.
Bottom line: A perfect introduction to Salzburg’s highlights, especially for visitors with limited time or those wanting a snapshot of the city.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When selecting your Salzburg tour, consider your budget, interests, and schedule. If you’re a musical enthusiast or love history, the Mozart concerts or Fortress Concerts are excellent choices. For scenic day trips, the Hallstatt and Eagle’s Nest tours provide memorable landscapes and history. If you’re into cooking or food, the Apple Strudel class and Christmas cookies lesson offer hands-on fun.
For those pressed for time, the Old Town walking tour gives a quick overview, while the Amphibious Splash is perfect if you want a lively, family-friendly experience.
Remember to book early, especially for concerts and popular day trips, as Salzburg’s tours tend to fill up quickly.
Final Thoughts
Salzburg offers a rich palette of tours that cater to diverse interests—from music and film to scenic landscapes and culinary delights. The Original Sound of Music Tour delivers nostalgia and stunning scenery, while the Mozart concerts bring classical music to life in breathtaking settings. For exploring beyond the city, Hallstatt and Eagle’s Nest tours offer unforgettable natural and historical sights.
Whether you’re after a culture, a scenic escape, or a delicious hands-on experience, Salzburg’s tour options won’t disappoint. Consider your interests and schedule, book ahead, and get ready for a trip filled with memorable moments in this charming Austrian city.