Less than two hours from London and with a rich cultural heritage, a walkable city centre (only 10 minutes from the airport) and fairytale architecture with UNESCO World Heritage status, this is our family guide to Salzburg.
Salzburg is the birthplace of Mozart and the famous filming location of The Sound Of Music, which celebrates its 60th anniversary this year. Elsewhere, the Berg Film Festival takes place between 12-25 November, and the child-friendly puppetry performance of Mozart’s The Magic Flute will be performed on 22 November. The most enchanting time, though, is the festive period when the Salzburger Christkindlmarkt sparkles under a dusting of snow (20 November 2025 – 1 January 2026).
STAY
Hotel & Villa Auersperg Salzburg
This friendly hotel combines classic 19th-century interiors with contemporary design for a chic atmosphere. But don’t be fooled: it’s still child-friendly – from the smiley staff who greet you with mocktails on arrival, to the kids’ corner disguised as a mini executive lounge stocked with colouring and puzzles. Situated in the Schallmoos district, close to the historic old town, it’s within easy walking distance of the sights, or hire bikes with child seats directly from the hotel to explore. The sofa in the family suites unfolds into a double bed and the homely breakfast buffet starts at 6.30am for early risers. A hidden garden with a resident beehive is a real treat in an urban setting – as is the small spa with Finnish sauna and steam bath.
Altstadthotel Wolf-Dietrich
This family-run and family-friendly boutique hotel is loved not only for its central location, but for its indoor pool and wellness area. A rarity in the city. Situated in a quiet area of the old town, Family Suites have separate twin bedrooms for the kids and mini bathrobes. Breakfast is teeming with local produce from Salzburgerland as well as Austrian specialities such as fried apple rings and Kaiserschmarrn (fluffy shredded pancakes). Prams, baby monitors and bottle warmers are all available for hire.
EAT + DRINK
Augustiner Bräustübl
A beer hall might not seem the obvious choice for a family trip, but this Salzburg institution is entertaining for everyone – particularly in summer when the 1400-seat garden comes alive (it even has a small playground). Pick a beer stein, rinse it in the fountains, then have it filled from the wooden barrels before taking a seat in one of the traditional halls. ‘Beer snacks’ such as warm pretzels, sausages and pork knuckle are served at the delicatessen market, and there’s live music once a month. Just remember to bring cash.
Sternbrau
Photo Credit: Kolarik Andreas
There’s something for all the family at this expansive Old Town restaurant with formal dining halls, snug alpine lounges, sunny beer gardens and fountains to explore as well as a colourful Kids’ Corner with puzzles and games. Fusing historical decor (look out for the paintings by Karl Reisenbichler in the Bürgersaal room) with modern tech like interactive game screens, it’s a great place to experience all of Austrian culture. The kids’ menu features mini versions of Austrian classics; 95 per cent of food products used in the restaurant are sourced from the surrounding region.
Cafe Sacher
© Hotel Sacher, Cafe Sacher
There is no better place to experience Austrian coffee culture than at the famous Sacher Cafe, home of the legendary Sacher Torte. The cake was created in 1832 by a 16-year-old Franz Sacher for the Prince of Vienna, and features layers of rich chocolate sponge with sticky apricot jam, covered in a chocolate glaze. The cafe itself reflects this imperial heritage with opulent cherry-red interiors and traditional service. An elegant afternoon treat.
What To Do
Salzburger Christkindlmarkt
©Tourismus Salzburg GmbH / G.Breitegger
Make magical memories with a trip to the historical Salzburg Christmas Market. Dating back to the late 15th century, the advent market is a must-visit between 20 November and 1 January, when the city becomes a real-life snowglobe. In the twinkling Cathedral Square, there are over 100 wooden chalet stalls selling handmade ornaments, gifts and traditional toys alongside Austrian delicacies such as Lebkuchen (gingerbread), Stollen (fruit bread), roasted chestnuts and warm Glühwein. Traditional choirs and brass bands perform carols daily to really enhance the festive atmosphere.
Speilzeug Museum
© Salzburg Museum/Melanie Wressnigg
To discover where the residents of Salzburg take their children, head to the toy museum where little ones will happily play for a few hours. Shoes are swapped for slippers at the entrance and children are invited to explore, play and touch, with exhibits at eye level and countless activities. We couldn’t get our toddler away from the marble run room, whilst our eldest girl adored the old toy treasures hidden in gilded vaults. A Salzburg Card will admit you for free.
Hohensalzburg Fortress
Image credit: Free Walking Tour Salzburg
This landmark on the Salzburg skyline is a must-do when the weather is clear, with panoramic views over the city from the fairytale fortress. The ride up on the funicular railway is an activity in itself, and at the top kids can play knights and dragons exploring the castle towers and dungeons. There are activity stations along the way with medieval games, and even a Marionette Museum with a miniature Sound Of Music scene. If you decide to climb up, the Stiegl-Keller restaurant is a sound pitstop with schnitzel and the famous dessert, Salzburger Nockerl, a towering meringue as high as the hill itself.
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