Salzburg Cathedral travel guide

Founded by Saint Rupert in 774 on the remnants of a Roman town, the Salzburg Cathedral has a storied past. This ancient cathedral was rebuilt in 1181 following a fire, adopting a new Romanesque style. However, it was again severely damaged by a series of fires in the 16th century.

In 1614, Archbishop Markus Sittikus commissioned a new cathedral, which was completed in 1628. This Baroque masterpiece, designed by architect Santino Solari, has remained largely intact till today, making it the first Baroque church north of the Alps.

Notably, the Salzburg Cathedral holds significant importance in music history as well; it was here that Mozart was baptized and later served as an organist. The cathedral still houses the 14th century gothic baptismal font where Mozart was baptized. The cathedral's grandeur and its historical significance make it a must-visit landmark in Salzburg.

One striking feature of Salzburg Cathedral is its grand Baroque style architecture, a design element not commonly seen in other cathedrals. The facade is framed by two impressive towers, a characteristic feature of Hohenstaufen architecture. The cathedral stands out for housing one of the oldest and fully functional organs in the world, with 4,000 pipes and 5 manuals. It also boasts a unique set of seven bells, each named after a saint, with the largest, weighing 14,256 kg, being one of the biggest in the Alpine region.

Inside, visitors are awed by the stunning frescoes that adorn the vaulted dome, a masterpiece by Italian artist Donato Mascagni. The high altar, made of marble, features a captivating tableau depicting the Transfiguration of Christ. The cathedral crypt, a significant part of the structure's foundation, stands as a witness to more than 1300 years of architectural history, reflecting early Christian, Romanesque, and Gothic styles. Overall, Salzburg Cathedral is a perfect blend of historical significance and architectural brilliance, making it a must-visit for art and history enthusiasts.

Located in the dynamic Salzburg, the popular Salzburg Cathedral is easy to find and can be explored during a short weekend escape in the beautiful city of Salzburg or as a stop on your countrywide road trip through Austria.

Salzburg is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, Salzburg offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit this popular landmark in Salzburg and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable Fortress Hohensalzburg, Mirabell Palace, Mozart's Birthplace, Hellbrunn Palace, and Mozartplatz.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, Salzburg has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in Salzburg, a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in Austria!

Salzburg Cathedral is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Salzburg, Austria. If you're flying in, Salzburg Airport is approximately 2 miles (3.1 km) away from Salzburg. From there, you can easily reach Salzburg Cathedral by taxi or shuttle.

You can also rent a car and drive to Salzburg Cathedral, providing flexibility to explore at your leisure. Its exact address is Domplatz 1a, 5020 Salzburg, Austria.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Salzburg Cathedral!

The best time to explore Salzburg Cathedral is during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October). These periods offer mild weather and fewer crowds, enhancing your experience of this baroque architectural gem. The cathedral's grandeur is at its most appealing under the gentle spring sun or amidst the vibrant autumn foliage. Consider planning your visit around the Cathedral's Easter and Christmas celebrations, when the cathedral hosts special masses featuring music from the world-renowned Salzburg Boys' Choir. Summertime (particularly July and August) sees an influx of tourists due to the Salzburg Festival, a world-famous music and drama event. While you can partake in this cultural feast, bear in mind the cathedral may be more crowded. Regardless of when you visit, remember that the Cathedral is closed to tourists during mass, so it's best to check the schedule beforehand.

To truly enjoy your visit to Salzburg Cathedral, joining a tour that features this popular Catholic cathedral in Salzburg is highly recommended. As one of Austria's most iconic attractions, Salzburg Cathedral draws visitors from around the world. Booking a tour in advance allows you to skip the lines and ensures a smooth, enjoyable experience.

Find the best and most popular tours and tickets to Salzburg Cathedral starting at just 69 EUR below.

With a rental car, discovering the popular Salzburg Cathedral and Austria's captivating landscapes becomes a breeze, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Upon arrival, international travelers can choose from 3 reputable rental car companies near Salzburg Airport and the city of Salzburg, making transportation seamless and efficient.

Rental car companies in Austria cater to a variety of preferences, offering vehicles ranging from compact and midsize to premium, estate, and even camper vans or convertibles. To select the perfect ride, consider your itinerary and specific travel plans in Salzburg and beyond.

Conveniently explore Salzburg Cathedral and plenty more captivating attractions in Salzburg by staying at a top-rated hotel in the center of the city. With comfortable accommodations and easy access to Salzburg Cathedral and other notable landmarks, wake up well-rested every day, ready to explore all that Salzburg has to offer.

Discover the best hotels for visiting Salzburg Cathedral below.

Aside from Salzburg Cathedral, Salzburg is home to numerous other top attractions waiting to be explored. From museums and architectural masterpieces to sculptures and natural wonders, the city offers a diverse range of sights to behold. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Salzburg, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely Fortress Hohensalzburg, Mirabell Palace, and Mozart's Birthplace.

Fortress Hohensalzburg is a bucket-list museum and top attraction in Salzburg, drawing numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 43,000 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the city. The exact address of Fortress Hohensalzburg is Mönchsberg 34, 5020 Salzburg, Austria.

Another appreciated attraction in Salzburg is Mirabell Palace. Like Fortress Hohensalzburg, this is one of the most popular sites to visit in the city. With an impressive average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars among 26,000 visitors, it’s also one of the highest-rated. The exact address of this establishment is Mirabellplatz 4, 5020 Salzburg, Austria.

Mozart's Birthplace is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Salzburg. This museum and top attraction in Salzburg has been rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 22,000 visitors. This attraction is located at the address of Getreidegasse 9, 5020 Salzburg, Austria.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the city of Salzburg below.