Hohensalzburg Fortress was founded in 1077 and is a listed monument, today housing museums, the State Rooms and the Magic Theatre. From the old town you walk to Festungsgasse, then ride the FestungsBahn funicular up the Festungsberg or take the footpath that starts right next to it. For children, the Fortress Games turn the visit into a discovery trail: with a game set in hand, you work through the castle via seven game stations that call for skill and brains. There are also family tours from age five, charged per person plus a separate tour fee. A cheaper Panorama ticket exists, but it only admits visitors during an early-morning and an evening window. The thing to know with small children: the footpath is steep, has steps in places and is not suitable for prams, and some areas of the fortress itself are not accessible with a stroller.
Family FAQ
How much does Hohensalzburg Fortress cost?
All-inclusive ticket with funicular: adults €19.20, children aged 6-14 €7.30; walking up instead: adults €14.50, children €5.60.
What are the opening hours of Hohensalzburg Fortress?
January-April and October-December 9:30am-5pm; May-September 8:30am-8pm.
Is there parking at Hohensalzburg Fortress?
You cannot drive up to the fortress; use Park & Ride at Messezentrum (A1) or Alpenstraße (A10 Salzburg-Süd) and take public transport into the old town.
