
Hohensalzburg Fortress
Hilltop fortress with panoramic views over Salzburg.
Ideal: Ideal for views, history, and city panoramas.
Construction began in 1077 under Archbishop Gebhard and the fortress never fell in nine centuries of sieges — one reason it is among Europe's largest fully preserved castles. It sits on a rock 120 meters above the city; inside are the archbishops' Golden Hall, a ceramic stove from 1502, and period torture instruments. The Festungsbahn funicular, running since 1892, is Austria's oldest still-operating funicular.
Why go?
- To see Salzburg from above
- For a full medieval fortress atmosphere
- As a strong finale to an old-town walk
Travel tip
Take the funicular up to save time, then walk down to enjoy the views.





