Salzburg Old Town (Aldstadt)

Lovely Salzburg’s enchanting medieval heart lies along the southern bank of the Salzach River; the Aldstadt is an enclave of winding cobbled alleyways, airy piazzas and many fine Baroque churches.

The wealth of Salzburg originated in the 14th century when it became an independent principality ruled by powerful prince-bishops, and thanks to its glorious architecture it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997. The Old Town’s many highlights include the massive Baroque Salzburg Residenz (Prince-Bishops’ Palace) in Residenzplatz and the landmark Dom (cathedral), majestically gilded inside and with a dramatic Baroque façade rearing up over Domplatz. St Peter’s Abbey is a Benedictine monastery with a fine, frothy rococo interior and a gastronomic treat in its cellars; Stiftskeller St Peter is one of Salzburg’s oldest restaurants.

The Aldstadt’s Kollegienkirche (university church) is Austria’s best example of design by Baroque master-architect Johann Bernhard Fischer von Erlach, and while continuing the Baroque theme, Kapitelplatz is a glorious square sprawled at the foot of Festung Hohensalzburg. It’s filled with quirky modern art, life-size chess games and market stalls and is one of Salzburg’s most popular meeting places.

All streets in the Old Town appear to lead into Mozartplatz, with its weather-beaten bronze of Salzburg’s favorite composer. A museum of his early life is found at the Mozart Geburtshaus (Mozart’s Birthplace) on Getreidegasse, which is the Aldstadt’s main thoroughfare, lined with exclusive designer stores and smart restaurants, many with their original wrought-iron signs still hanging outside. 

For a sneaky preview of the rooftops, spires and domes of the Aldstadt, take the funicular up the bluff cliffside to the sparkling white Festung Hohensalzburg (Salzburg Fortress) – and while you’re up there admiring the view don’t miss the brilliant Museum of Modern Art.

Practical Info

All of Salzburg’s Old Town sights are accessible on foot. All churches and museums are open daily; free admission is granted with the Salzburg Card.