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Built in 1077, the Fortress Hohensalzburg is one of Europe’s largest fully preserved medieval castles and offers stunning views of Salzburg’s Old Town. Wander through its grand halls and explore its museum, showcasing medieval artifacts and a stunning gilded prince’s chamber. Just a short walk from Mozart’s birthplace, the fortress also hosts classical concerts where timeless masterpieces echo through its centuries-old stone walls, creating an unforgettable acoustic experience.
150 Seats
Wheelchair Accessible
Restaurant
About Fortress Hohensalzburg
- Seating categories: Category 1 offers assigned seating in the first 6 rows of the Golden Hall or the first 7 rows of the Arms Hall, while Category 2 provides unassigned seating from row 7 onwards in the Golden Hall or from row 8 in the Arms Hall.
- Seating capacity: The fortress can host over 100 to 150 visitors.
- Best seats: The Category 1 seats offer clear, unobstructed views and are closest to the performers.
- Good value seats: Category 2 seats are farther back, but more affordable, while still offering excellent acoustics for a great listening experience.
- Recommendations: If you prefer extra legroom, an aisle seat is your best bet.
Know Before You Go
- Funicular (FestungsBahn): The FestungsBahn funicular departs from Festungsgasse 4 in the Old Town, reaching the fortress in under a minute. It operates daily from 9am, with closing times varying seasonally. This is the quickest and most convenient way to reach the fortress.
- Trolleybus: Lines 1, 3, 5, 6, and 25 head towards the city center from Salzburg's main railway station. Get off at the Vienna City Hall or Ferdinand-Hanusch-Platz. From there, it's a 10-minute walk through the Old Town to the FestungsBahn station.
- Parking: The Old Town is a pedestrian-only zone with restricted vehicle access. For parking, use public garages like Mönchsberg or Nonntal. Get discounted parking rates by having your ticket stamped at the fortress ticket window.
- Walking: For those who prefer a scenic route, a footpath from the Old Town leads to the fortress entrance. It takes around 20 minutes and offers picturesque views of Salzburg.
Frequently asked questions about Fortress Hohensalzburg
How do I get to the concert hall at Fortress Hohensalzburg?
The concert venue is inside the fortress, and the best way to reach it is by taking the FestungsBahn funicular, which runs from the city center and gets you to the top in just a few minutes. Arrive at least 45 minutes early to settle in comfortably.
Do Fortress Hohensalzburg concerts include dinner?
Yes, you can book a combined dinner and concert ticket, which includes a multi-course dinner at the Panorama Restaurant, featuring traditional Austrian dishes like Wiener Schnitzel and apple strudel, followed by a classical performance in the fortress’s historic hall.
Is there assigned seating at the Fortress Hohensalzburg concerts?
Seating is usually based on ticket category, with premium ticket holders getting the best spots near the stage. Since it’s a historic venue with an intimate setting, all seats provide good acoustics, but arriving early ensures the best possible experience.
What kind of music is performed at Fortress Hohensalzburg?
What are the opening hours of the fortress?
Fortress Hohensalzburg is open all year round, but the timings vary by season. From January to April and October to December, it’s open from 9:30am to 5pm. During the warmer months (May to September), it stays open longer, from 8:30am to 8pm.
How long do concerts last?
Most concerts at Hohensalzburg Fortress last about 1.5 to 2 hours, including a short intermission. If you are combining the experience with dinner, plan for at least three hours to fully enjoy the evening.
Are the concert halls heated?
The concert halls at Fortress Hohensalzburg are heated, but since they are historic stone halls, they can still feel chilly in winter. To stay comfortable, it's best to dress in warm layers, especially during the colder months.
Can I take photographs inside the fortress?
Yes, you can click pictures throughout most areas of the fortress. However, certain museum sections may have restrictions on photography or video recording. It’s always best to check for signage near exhibition areas.
What are some attractions to explore near the fortress?
Inside the fortress itself, you can visit the Rainer Regiment Museum and the Marionette Museum, showcasing artifacts from Salzburg’s rich history. Down the hill but just a short walk away, you will find Mozart’s Birthplace, the magnificent Salzburg Cathedral, and the Residenz Palace.