5 Spots In Salzburg to See Sunset or Sunrise (With a Map)
This post might contain affiliate links.
Salzburg offers a view straight out of a fairytale, which I believe is stunning enough to be a highlight of any trip to the city.
Its skyline, filled with Baroque architecture and has the mountains as the backdrop, is one of the most unique cityscape views not just in Austria, but maybe even across all of Europe!
If the weather forecast a few days prior to your actual trip to Salzburg calls for sunny skies, I’d argue it’s a must to visit Salzburg’s viewpoints. The views there are simply breathtaking.
Aim to be at any of the viewpoints during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset, and I’m confident the scene you’ll witness will be nothing short of magical!
With Salzburg’s old-world charm illuminated in warm hues, the dramatic scenery during these golden hours might just be that one unforgettable moment you’re seeking in your travels.
The great part is, you don’t have to leave the historic center of Salzburg to take in panoramic views of the city.
The best spots are in Old Town and in its small mountains, such as Mönchsberg, Kapuzinerberg, and Festungsberg, where Hohensalzburg Fortress is located.
Some of these viewpoints are also conveniently situated along the Salzach River, while others can be reached using an elevator. Each one is a breeze to get to!
So, allow me to guide you to their locations and describe the stunning views you can expect from each. I’m also pinpointing their exact spots on a map for your convenience!
Good to know
These viewpoints are just a short stroll away from many of the city’s noteworthy attractions. For example, Salzburg Cathedral, Nonnberg Abbey, Mozart’s Birthplace, Mirabell Palace, and more. If you’re planning a walking tour of Old Town Salzburg, it’s easy to include these picturesque spots into your route.
1. Humboldt Terrace in Mönchsberg
Humboldt Terrace is the vantage point in Mönchsberg, offering a view that overlooks Old Town Salzburg from its northern tip.
From this viewpoint, you can behold the entire Old Town Salzburg with just a single look, without even having to move your head.
It’s a view you’d love to see, whether you’re catching the sunset or sunrise in Salzburg.
You might find these interesting!
2. In Front of Museum der Moderne in Mönchsberg
The Museum der Moderne in Mönchsberg is not only one of Salzburg’s most renowned modern art museums, but it also offers a stunning viewpoint of the Old Town.
From the terraces in front of the museum, you can immerse yourself in the baroque skyline of the city and enjoy an unobstructed, 180-degree view of Salzburg’s most notable landmarks and historic center.
This makes it an ideal spot for watching the sunrise or sunset.
3. Müllnersteg Bridge
Of all the bridges in Salzburg, the Müllnersteg Bridge offers some of the most stunning views you’ll surely love to see.
It’s located near Humboldt Terrace, but at a lower elevation below Mönchsberg and across the River Salzach.
From the Müllnersteg Bridge, you can see a special and amazing view of Salzburg’s Old Town — the one that looks like France’s Mont Saint-Michel.
4. Elisabethkai Waterfront Promenade
If you’re looking for a place to relax and have a picnic while enjoying the golden hour in Salzburg, Elisabethkai is the perfect spot.
This waterfront promenade, offering another picture-perfect panorama of Salzburg, is located on the eastern bank of the River Salzach, between the Müllnersteg Bridge and Marko-Feingold-Steg.
From here, you can enjoy an unobstructed view of Salzburg’s Old Town, with its baroque domes and spires in front of Festungsberg and Hohensalzburg Fortress, acting as the backdrop.
5. Basteiweg in Kapuzinerberg
Basteiweg is one of the historic pathways in Kapuzinerberg, used by medieval guards who patrolled Salzburg’s medieval fortifications outside the Old Town.
Today, it’s a scenic trail that connects Hettwer Bastei, the bastion below the Capuchin monastery, with Franziskischlössl, the fortress at the top of Kapuzinerberg.
From different parts of Basteiweg, high above the city, various unique perspectives of Old Town Salzburg and Hohensalzburg Fortress across the River Salzach can be seen.
Map of Salzburg
To assist you in finding these sunrise or sunset spots in Salzburg, I’ve included a map of Salzburg that pinpoints their exact locations.
Resources
So, those are my top recommendations for the best spots to catch the sunrise and sunset in Salzburg!
I hope this helps you find the ideal location for you. If you’re looking for more details about the top 5 sunrise or sunset locations in Salzburg, feel free to check out the links provided below:
If you need help in exploring Salzburg, check out the list below.
- Recommended: 2-Hour Guided Walking Tour with a Photographer — Take home beautiful photo souvenirs of you in Salzburg!
- Must have for all Sound of Music movie fans: Original Sound of Music Tour
- Save Money: Hop-on Hop-off City Tour (includes Eagle’s Nest in Berchtesgaden & Hallein)
Plan Your Trip Now
Here are my recommended services
Explore more amazing destinations in Salzburg and find guides to help you get the most out of your trip!
Guides & Itineraries
Lists & New Ideas
Top Attractions