10 Things to Do in Hohensalzburg Fortress (Festung Hohensalzburg) Salzburg Austria
Hohensalzburg Fortress is a stunning medieval castle perched atop a hill overlooking Salzburg, Austria. It is one of the largest and best-preserved castles in Europe and is a must-see destination for any traveler to the area. This majestic fortress has been standing since 1077 and is filled with history, culture, and plenty of activities for visitors to enjoy. Here are 10 things to do in Hohensalzburg Fortress:
1. Take a Tour of the Fortress. There are several guided tours available at the fortress, including a tour of the castle walls, the fortress museum, and the fortress grounds. Guided tours are a great way to learn more about the history of the castle and to get a better idea of what life was like during the Middle Ages.
2. Visit the Marionette Museum. The Marionette Museum is located inside the fortress and is home to a collection of over 500 marionettes from the Salzburg area. The museum also offers interactive puppet shows and puppet-making workshops for kids and adults alike.
3. Take a Ride on the Fortress Funicular. The fortress funicular is a cable car that transports visitors up the hill to the fortress. The ride takes just a few minutes and offers stunning views of the city below.
4. Visit the Salzburg Cathedral. The Salzburg Cathedral, located just a short walk away from the fortress, is a beautiful baroque-style church. The cathedral is home to a number of important works of art, including the famous “Salzburg Madonna” painting by Lucas Cranach the Elder.
5. Explore the Fortress Gardens. The gardens of the fortress are filled with colorful flowers, trees, and shrubs. There are several pathways that lead to different parts of the gardens, making it a great spot for a leisurely stroll.
6. Take a Walk on the Fortress Walls. The walls of the fortress are a great place to take a walk and admire the views of the city below. There are several lookout points along the walls that offer stunning views of the city and the surrounding mountains.
7. Visit the Fortress Museum. The fortress museum is a great place to learn more about the history of the castle and the city of Salzburg. The museum features a variety of artifacts, including weapons, armor, and artworks.
8. Take a Tour of the Ramparts. The ramparts of the fortress are a great place to explore. The ramparts offer stunning views of the city and the surrounding countryside.
9. Visit the Salzburg Zoo. The Salzburg Zoo is located just a short walk away from the fortress and is home to a variety of animals, including tigers, lions, and giraffes. The zoo also offers a variety of educational activities for kids, making it a great spot for a family outing.
10. Enjoy a Meal at the Fortress Café. The café at the fortress is a great spot to grab a bite to eat. The café offers a variety of local dishes, including schnitzel and strudel. The café also offers stunning views of the city and the fortress walls.
Whether you’re looking for a day of sightseeing or a leisurely stroll through the gardens, Hohensalzburg Fortress is a must-see destination for any traveler to Salzburg. From the stunning views of the city to the historical artifacts inside the fortress, there is something for everyone to enjoy.