Although best known as Mozart’s birthplace and the home of the Von Trapp family, the city of Salzburg has much more to offer even its youngest visitors. Tucked in the Austrian Alps, Salzburg has an Italian flair with Baroque churches and interlocking squares that bask in the shadow of the imposing Hohensalzburg Fortress. The Old Town is tightly woven between the fortress and the Salzach River that once carried precious salt (salz) to the rest of the world.
Highlights of Salzburg with Kids
Explore the City Center
lthough best known as Mozart’s birthplace and the home of the Von Trapp family, the city of Salzburg has much more to offer even its youngest visitors. Tucked in the Austrian Alps, Salzburg has an Italian flair with Baroque churches and interlocking squares that bask in the shadow of the imposing Hohensalzburg Fortress. The Old Town is tightly woven between the fortress and the Salzach River that once carried precious salt (salz) to the rest of the world.
Don’t miss Salzburg’s main drag, Getreidegasse, lined with elegant buildings and wrought-iron signs that once advertised what was sold inside. Little ones might enjoy a scavenger hunt to find the butcher, the baker and the pretzel maker along Getreidegasse en route to Mozart’s birthplace at No. 9.
Search for Maria
Many visitors flock to Salzburg to visit the backdrop of The Sound of Music. Although kids might not understand what the fuss is all about, they will enjoy the fun-natured bus tours that offer a city overview plus stops at famous movie locations, like Mirabell Palace and Gardens (where Maria and the children sang “Do-Re-Mi”) and Hellbrunn Palace (home to the gazebo where Liesl sang “Sixteen Going on Seventeen”). Some companies offer bike tours, but these are best for older kids as guides move quickly.
Families who want to linger should consider visiting these sights on their own. Mirabell Palace, the former home of prince-archbishops, is only open as a concert venue, but lucky patrons might catch a free concert in the garden during the summer months. Hellbrunn Palace and Gardens, 4 miles from Salzburg, is particularly appealing for kids, who will enjoy a guided tour of the trick fountains that Prince-Archbishop Markus Sittikus once used to entertain his VIP guests. Prepare to get wet!
Take a Joyride
On a sunny day, a bike ride along the Salzach River is a great way to escape the city. Rent a bike near the Staatsbrücke bridge along the river and enjoy the scenic views as you try to imagine barges full of Salzburg’s precious cargo paying a toll as they passed through here long ago. A short ride along the riverside bike path is enough for some; however, those looking for a worthwhile detour should consider Hellbrunner Allee. This 4-mile farm country route, filled with alpine meadows, leads to Hellbrunn Palace (mentioned above) and makes for a nice day trip.
Mingle with Locals
It may sound strange, but a visit to a bustling beer garden is a regular occurrence for many Austrian families. The 1,000-seat Augustiner Bräustübl is just a 15-minute walk from the Old Town; here, tourists and locals mingle while drinking beer brewed by monks from the nearby Kloster Mülin. This is a playground for kids and adults who enjoy the convivial outdoor setting, especially in the summer months, under the shade of the chestnut trees. The beer, poured straight from the barrel, is better than the food, so consider bringing a picnic to share.
Most beer gardens allow patrons to bring in their own food as long as they purchase a drink. Be sure to sit in the self-service (Schank) section, usually denoted by tables not lined with tablecloths.
There is never a shortage of musical events in Salzburg, but there are only a handful sure to hold the attention of younger audience members. The Salzburg Marionette Theater is a cultural treat not to be missed. Night performances include 10 puppeteers artfully performing The Sound of Music and various German-language operas to spellbound audiences. For a sneak peak, visit the box office or the marionette exhibit at Hohensalzburg Fortress.
