Hohensalzburg Fortress

Also known as Festung Hohensalzburg, Hohensalzburg

One of the largest and best-preserved medieval castle fortresses in Europe, perched on Festungsberg hill above Salzburg's Altstadt. Founded in 1077 by Gebhard von Helfenstein, transformed into a princely residence by Leonhard von Keutschach, and never conquered. The defining landmark of Salzburg's skyline.

Hohensalzburg Fortress is the largest fully preserved fortress in Central Europe, built above Salzburg from 1077 onward and never captured in its nearly thousand-year history. The funicular (Festungsbahn) runs from Festungsgasse in the Altstadt; the combined funicular and entry ticket is around EUR 15. The terrace gives the best panoramic view of Salzburg and the Alps. Inside: medieval state apartments built around 1500 for Archbishop Leonhard von Keutschach, including the Golden Chamber with its gilded stucco, and a Salzburg Bull organ from 1502 that still plays across the city at 7am, 11am, and 6pm. If you’re paying for one attraction in Salzburg, this should be it. Budget 2 to 3 hours.