If you're on your first visit, tick off star attractions like Mozart's Birthplace and the medieval Hohensalzburg Fortress on its fairytale perch above Salzburg's Altstadt (Old Town). There's more to Salzburg than classical melodies and The Sound of Music film. Come back for contemporary art at the futuristic Museum der Moderne, cobbled Steingasse street and the banks of the River Salzach.
The fast-flowing River Salzach splits Salzburg in two. On the Left Bank you'll find the compact, pedestrianised Altstadt. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Salzburg Old Town is dwarfed by the Hohensalzburg Fortress on top of Mnchsberg Mountain. Explore its warren of cobblestone lanes and grand Baroque squares like Domplatz and Residenzplatz, designed by Salzburg's moneyed archbishops in the 17th century. You'll find a laid-back flair and fewer crowds on the Right Bank. Spend your evenings here in trendy lounge bars and theatres.
Get your bearings from the ramparts of 900-year-old Hohensalzburg Fortress, towering above Salzburg's pretty old town centre. You'll hear the clip-clop of horses on Residenzplatz square, a showcase of grand Baroque designs. Glimpse Rembrandt originals in the Residenz Galerie then refuel with flaky apple strudel in traditional wood-panelled Caf Tomaselli, founded in 1705. It won't take you long to get caught up in Salzburg's Mozart mania. Start off by visiting Mozart's Birthplace, then stock up on handmade Mozartkugel chocolates. If you're a Maria wannabe, belt out The Sound of Music favourites on a bike tour of Salzburg's film locations.
The glass-and-concrete Museum der Moderne catapults you into the 21st century with contemporary art exhibitions. Climb Kapuzinerberg Mountain for solitude and views of the city's skyline framed by the jagged Alps. Then unwind over a picnic beside the milky blue River Salzach below. Visit the rose-dotted Mirabell Gardens where the Do-Re-Mi song from The Sound of Music was filmed. For a feel of Salzburg's medieval past, tread the cobbles along quiet Steingasse street where potters and leather tanners once lived.
