One of Europe's largest medieval fortresses with stunning views
"Constructed by the archbishops of Salzburg during the era of the Holy Roman Empire, this is one of Europe's largest medieval fortresses. In the 19th century it was made accessible via the FestungsBahn funicular that climbs the hillside to the fortress; distinctive interior highlights include the decorated Golden Chamber and the Salzburg Bull, a 16th-century organ that plays daily." - Steven Casale Steven Casale Steven Casale is a New York City-based freelance writer and digital strategist. He specializes in food, travel, and lifestyle content for publications like Tasting Table, Travel + Leisure, The Lineup, and amNY.com. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines
"A dominant hilltop stronghold and one of the largest fully preserved castles in Central Europe; it's a major Old Town vantage point and also hosts a courtyard Christmas market during the holidays. Access options include the funicular up to the fortress, which provides easy panoramic viewpoints over the city." - Lydia Mansel Lydia Mansel Lydia Mansel is a writer with more than eight years of experience editing and writing for both brands and online publications—with a particular focus on travel, fashion, and lifestyle. She’s also the founder of the travel site justpacked.com. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines
"A hilltop fortress that provides sweeping views of snow-capped Alps from its terraces and a scenic backdrop to Salzburg’s holiday atmosphere, ideal for combining historic sightseeing with winter panoramas." - Elizabeth Rhodes Elizabeth Rhodes Elizabeth Rhodes is a senior editor at Travel + Leisure, covering everything from luxury hotels to theme parks to must-pack travel products. Originally from South Carolina, Elizabeth moved to New York City from London, where she started her career as a travel blogger and writer. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines
"Perched on a hill, this picturesque fortress market is one of several historic Advent gatherings in the city, offering scenic views alongside seasonal stalls where the aromas of hot chestnuts and mulled wine mingle with vendors selling baubles and toys. The setting emphasizes a traditional, atmospheric holiday experience rooted in the city's long history of Advent markets." - Alison Fox Alison Fox Alison Fox is a Travel + Leisure contributor. She has also written for Parents.com, The Wall Street Journal, and amNewYork. When she’s not in New York City, she can be found at the beach or on the slopes. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines
"As the largest fully preserved fortress in central Europe, the more-than-900-year-old Hohensalzburg has long been the medieval crown above an elegantly baroque city. Its current appearance dates back to the 1495–1519 reign of Prince-Archbishop Leonhard von Keutschach, during which the fortress was expanded using funds generated from the nearby salt and silver mines. Inner courtyards lead to an extensive, but not exhausting, collection of medieval curiosities and other artifacts from the political elites of the Holy Roman Empire. The apartments of the prince-archbishops—including the ornately decorated Golden Chamber and Bed Chamber—are highlights of a wonderfully maintained interior, while the views over the city are simply stunning. Access to the fortress is by foot or a short funicular ride."