Walk in Mozart’s Shoes in Salzburg

Welcome to Salzburg! You’ve embarked on a musical adventure that is soon to begin. The airport is only 16 minutes outside of the city center, and local transportation is easy to find. Once you’ve made it to your hotel and relaxed for a bit, it’s time to get out and explore! 

Get yourself acquainted with Salzburg. Take a fun ride on the funicular, and on the way back follow a scenic path. You’ll get to experience the natural beauty of Austria as you walk toward the Modern Art Museum, where the terrace will offer you the perfect view.

Now that you’re starting to know your way around, it’s time to visit Mozart’s old stomping grounds. Head down to Getreidegasse. While the spot is known for its photogenic appeal and shopping, it’s also Mozart’s birthplace!

Make sure to look at the artwork etched on the passageways. Then it’s time to stop at the Mozart House and Museum. Stop by No. 9 Getreidegasse where the wunderkind was born. Even his old instruments are still preserved in the unit! Finish your day off with a stop at Café Tomaselli, one of Mozart’s favorite spots in the Old Market where he’d have his almond milk every day. You will also have a great view of the Old Square from the cafe.

While the Mirabell Palace is known for its royal ties, it was also a place where Mozart played in his early years. Although Mozart is no longer around, musicians still perform in this location, so make sure to stop by during the evening to catch a show. The Palace has a beautiful view of the Old Town. Tour the gorgeous gardens and even discover the fountain used in “The Sound of Music.”

The Salzburg Theatre stands directly across from his old home and served as a huge inspiration for the classical musician. He drew from this great theatre a passion for opera and turned it into a muse for his later compositions. He was regularly invited, along with his family, to view the shows as well. Later in his life, he even performed in the theatre. If you stop by in January during Mozart week, you’ll be able to watch one of his most famous shows.

On your way home, stop by the Café Fürst Confectionery to get one of the world-famous Mozart Chocolate Balls. Marzipan, pistachio, chocolate, and nougat all go into making the tasty treat. Don’t be fooled by copycats or competitors — these are the real deal!

Mozart was very well known for his compositions for Masses, so many churches in Salzburg are relevant to his journey. While some of these churches are very intricate, Collegiate Church is a simpler locale, yet it’s the place where Mozart played “Mass in D minor” for the first time at 13 years old. The building took around 70 years to complete, and it’s linked to the University of Salzburg where Mozart gave his first dance performance at only five years old and then his first opera at 11. 

Next, head over to St. Peter’s where Mozart wrote the lovely “Dominicus Mass” at 13 years of age. The concert halls belonging to St. Peter’s continue to have Mozart Dinner Concerts, so if you get the chance – it’s a definite stop! Finish your day off at the Green Market on University Square. This open-air market offers fresh fruit that’s sure to refresh you after a long day. Take a moment today to stop by a music school to drop off some supplies, give a quick lesson, or listen to blooming musicians at work!

Start your day with a relaxing stroll down Mozart Square and visit the Mozart Footbridge – named after the composer around 100 years after his death. Next, head over to the Panorama 1829 Museum. At this interactive museum you’ll have the opportunity to step into Mozart’s world and see what Salzburg looked like in his day, with 360-degree panoramic paintings displaying Salzburg and other European cities.

Check out their fun games set up on tablets where you can guess which city you’re viewing, a great moment for learning a bit more about geography and history in a fun way! They also have telescopes so you can get a closer look at the architecture of the time. Finish the day off in the Salzburg Cathedral where Mozart was baptized and played for many years. Treat yourself to an oversized chess game at Kapitelplatz to unwind.

Mozart performed here from age six until he was 17! The residence used to belong to the Prince-Archbishop who regularly hired Mozart to play violin and piano for him. This space is where Mozart gave his first public performance and performed his first opera as well.

Visit the square, an old Roman forum transformed. The square houses the largest Baroque fountain outside of Italy. Wrap up your day with a stop at Saint Peter’s Restaurant, the oldest restaurant in the world. Mozart and his family used to frequent the spot often, and the restaurant produces Mozart Dinner Concerts almost every night and was also the home of Haydn who lived on the second floor!

Before heading back home, make sure to stop at University Square one last time to enjoy a giant pretzel from their food truck, with a myriad of options – there’s something for everyone! On your journey home, reflect on how you can help the kids in your community to explore their musical talents.