Overview
The Salzkammergut is Austria's premier natural landscape east of Salzburg, a UNESCO World Heritage region of 76 lakes surrounded by Alpine peaks. Highlights include Wolfgangsee (St. Wolfgang), Mondsee (where The Sound of Music wedding church scene was filmed), and Attersee (Gustav Klimt's beloved lake). Each lake offers boat trips, swimming, and hiking. Two to three lakes can be visited on a day trip from Salzburg, making it a popular half- to full-day excursion. Access free (individual activities may cost). About 45 minutes to 1 hour from Salzburg by bus or train.
Opening Hours
Open 24 hours (check boat and train schedules by season).
Travel Tips
Highlights include the Mondsee wedding church and the Schafberg cog railway at Wolfgangsee. In summer, bring a swimsuit — the lakes are great for swimming.
Hotels near Salzkammergut Lake District
Hotels and guesthouses in Salzburg, Salzkammergut, Salzburg Region
Other attractions in Salzburg
Hohensalzburg Fortress
One of Europe's largest medieval castles, towering over the city with sweeping views of Salzburg.
Mozart's Birthplace
The yellow building at Getreidegasse 9 where Mozart was born, now a museum of his early life.
Mirabell Palace & Gardens
The 'Sound of Music' filming location — a gorgeous Baroque garden with the Alps as a backdrop.
Hellbrunn Palace & Trick Fountains
The Archbishop's summer palace, famous for its 400-year-old playful trick fountains.
Untersberg Mountain
An Alpine peak just south of Salzburg, with a cable car to the 1,853m summit for 360-degree panoramas.
Getreidegasse
Salzburg's iconic Old Town shopping street, lined with medieval wrought-iron signs.
Schloss Leopoldskron & Lake
The real filming location for the Von Trapp mansion in 'The Sound of Music,' with a picture-perfect lake reflection.