There are a great number of architecturally impressive and culturally historical tourist attractions and sights in Austria. They range from religious buildings such as churches and monasteries to royal castles and palaces, and to secular and functional buildings such as museums and galleries, all of which increase the diversity of Austria tourist attractions. Austria's colourful history has resulted in the development of various architectural styles and a wealth of wonderful buildings that tell their own story. Contemporary Austrian architecture has a worldwide reputation, showing the continued vitality of this country’s impressive culture and visiting these sights is one of the many things to do in Austria.

Salzburg Tourist Attractions

Hohensalzburg Fort

Built in 1077 by Archbishop Gebhard, Hohensalzburg Fortress (also known as Salzburg Fort) is one of the largest fortresses in central Europe. Apart from being a fortification, the fort once served as the residence of many prince archbishops. One of the great things regarding the fort is that it has never been conquered by any enemy troop. Among the attractions of the fort are the Golden Hall and the Golden Chamber graced with ornamental paintings and complicated Gothic wood-carvings. The fort now hosts the International Summer Academy, which attracts artists from across the world.

Mozart's Birthplace and Residence

According to certain records, Mozart's family lived here between the periods 1747 and 1773. Now, the residence has been converted into a museum, displaying items used by Mozart during his childhood days, such as, his violin, clavichord, and pianoforte.

St. Peters Burial Ground

This burial ground is one of the oldest as well as the most interesting cemeteries in the world. The area serves as the resting place for many renowned personalities, such as artists, scholars, and merchants.

Untersberg Mountains

A lovely ride to atop the Untersberg Mountains via a large cabin of cable car would be enjoyable. It allows you to enjoy the magnificent beauty of the Rositten Valley as well as the surrounding mountains.

Museums in Salzburg

    * The Museum of Modern Art, located within a 17th-century building, is perhaps the most prominent among the museums in the region. Highlights include artworks of such renowned artists as Klimt and Kokoschka. A variety of temporary exhibits can also be seen here.
    * Another popular museum is Museum of Natural History, exhibiting a variety of natural history collection and aquarium and reptile collections.
    * Museums in Salzburg also include Cathedral Museum, whose specialties are Precious jewel-studded monstrance and Art and Rarities Collection. Exhibits also cover items such as gems, fossils, and carved ivory.

Churches

Most significant among the churches of the city is perhaps Salzburg Cathedral an impressive structure with royal façade and mighty dome. Also, popular is OpeninKollegienkirche or Collegiate Church, designed by great baroque architect, Fischer von Erlach. In addition, Salzburg is also home to an amazing array of castles and buildings, each of them reflecting baroque architecture. No wonder why Salzburg is sometimes dubbed as the Rome of the North.

Festivals

Salzburg is a venue for such colorful as well as cultural festivals as Salzburger Festspiele, an annual event offering a range of concerts, operas, and theatrical plays, from classical to contemporary styles.