Salzburg tours

Things to do in Salzburg

Salzburg is a city that doesn't just rest on its classical laurels. Sure, there's the baroque architecture and those gardens, but there's also a living, breathing connection to Mozart that doesn't feel forced. It's a place where every street seems to have its own soundtrack. With a local guide, Salzburg isn't just a postcard; it's a living history. Stroll down Getreidegasse, where the past isn't just present, but part of the conversation. And the food? It's not just about trying something new; it's about tasting the city itself, from a Salzburger Nockerl to a local wine. Private tours aren't about skipping the queues; they're a chance to really get under the skin of a city where music and history don't just coexist—they're inseparable. If you’re looking for more inspiration, take a look at our curated list of things to do in Salzburg. Explore Salzburg your way At ToursByLocals, we believe that how you explore is just as important as where you go. That’s why every Salzburg tour is private, flexible, and built around you: Move at your own pace, skip the crowds, make connections and follow your curiosity. Find local guides offering private tours in Salzburg for every interest, including: Nature and Wildlife tours: Ride the Untersberg cable car for a ridge walk with panoramic views, then descend for a quiet loop around the Leopoldskroner Weiher to spot swans and herons. If you prefer wheels, e‑bike the Salzach path to Hellbrunn and onward to Lake Fuschl for a shoreline stroll and a snack at a lakeside hut. Layover tours: Get picked up at the airport or Hauptbahnhof, then zip through Mirabell Gardens, the Getreidegasse by Mozart’s Birthplace, and the Hohensalzburg Fortress via funicular before a coffee at Café Tomaselli and on‑time drop‑off. Short on hours? Your guide can tailor a compact route and manage tickets so your layover tour hits the highlights without stress. History tours: Explore the DomQuartier’s state rooms and galleries, step into Salzburg Cathedral, and wander St. Peter’s Abbey, cemetery, and catacombs as your guide unpacks the Prince‑Archbishops’ legacy and Mozart’s era. Add Nonnberg Abbey for a quiet cloister stop and city views. The historic centre is very walkable, and trolleybuses and the S‑Bahn connect major spots quickly. If you’re on a tight schedule or heading to lakes or Untersberg, you can book a chauffeured tour or ask your guide for a tour with private transportation. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all itinerary, you can tailor your private tour to match your interests, pace and personality with a local who knows Salzburg inside and out. Walking tours & neighbourhoods Discover Salzburg on a private walking tour and explore its vibrant neighborhoods with a local guide. There's no better way to get to know a place than with someone who calls it home. - Altstadt (Old Town): A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Altstadt is perfect for history buffs and culture enthusiasts. Stroll through narrow medieval streets, admire baroque architecture, and visit the birthplace of Mozart. Families will enjoy the charming squares and lively markets. - Nonntal: Ideal for those seeking a quieter pace, Nonntal offers a mix of historical sites and green spaces. Walk through the picturesque paths of the Hellbrunn Palace gardens or take in views of the surrounding mountains. Great for multi-generational groups who appreciate both history and nature. - Andräviertel: Just across the Salzach River, this neighborhood is known for its vibrant arts scene and boutique shops. Visit the Thursday farmers’ market at Mirabellplatz or explore the local galleries. Perfect for cultural tourists and those looking to connect with Salzburg's modern side. - Lehen: Experience the local lifestyle in Lehen, where you can find a mix of residential charm and bustling activity. Discover local cafés and enjoy the community vibe. A great spot for tourists seeking meaningful connections with locals. Day trip ideas from Salzburg From Salzburg, it is simple to hop into lake country, the high Alps, or a nearby city that fits what you like most. Hallstatt and the Salzkammergut: Mirror-still lakes, a historic village set against cliffs, and viewpoints that reward a gentle pace. If you like photography, local history, or quiet shoreline walks, your tour can time stops to dodge the busiest hours and add lesser-known lakes like Gosausee. Berchtesgaden and Königssee: Cross into Germany for sharp limestone peaks, emerald water, and easy trails along valley floors. It suits hikers and scenery chasers, with room to add short hikes or scenic overlooks, and your tour can focus on nature or village time. Wolfgangsee with St. Gilgen and St. Wolfgang: Lake views, café patios, and tidy streets lined with wood-front shops. Good for a slower day with light walks and local flavours, and your tour can split time between villages or include a simple lakeside cruise. Munich: A bigger-city contrast with grand squares, art collections, markets, and beer halls. If you want culture and food in one go, it is a straightforward rail or road run, and your tour can zero in on a neighbourhood theme or a few key museums for an easy day trip feel. A private tour with a local guide is the best way to really get to know a place. Skip the crowds, follow your interests, and see a side of Salzburg most travellers miss.