Salzburg's Old Town and its lanes: so beautifully mysterious

Anyone walking through the narrow lanes will immediately sense what makes Salzburg's Old Town so special. It is simply in the air: the historic walls exude historical events, encounters and traces of prominent people. Meander through Salzburg's streets and enjoy the enchanting atmosphere. They are all worth seeing, but we will tell you of a few streets in Salzburg's Old Town that you should definitely not miss out. 

The Steingasse: pleasure and the Middle Ages

Let's start on the right-hand side of the Old Town, in the Steingasse. One step, one glance is enough and it becomes clear: this is an extraordinary place with a lot to tell. The houses of the narrow street are huddled tightly against the rock face of the Kapuzinerberg, under the cobblestones there are hidden wagon tracks of the Romans – even they used this historic export road to the south in those days. Joseph Mohr, born in 1792, grew up in this street – today he is known as the lyricist of Silent Night, Holy Night.

During your walk through the scenic alley, you should definitely take a closer look at the house façade near the cinema cultural centre Das Kino. The sizeable damage on the corner of this building bears witness to a curious mishap: after World War II, an American occupier is said to have got stuck in the narrow street with a tank. Rumour has it that he tried to get into the infamous Maison de Plaisir brothel. Incidentally, this still exists today, the owner of the building having left the scrape there as a warning.

Just opposite, the Imbergstiege, also called the "dark staircase", leads up to the Kapuzinerberg. Those who climb it are rewarded with a panoramic view over Salzburg. Fortunately, the ascent no longer has to be made as it was in the 18th century: back then, people made the pilgrimage up to St. John's Chapel kneeling for the indulgence of their sins. The charming little church can still be visited today; Mozart is also said to have been very fond of it.

Exploring the Steingasse with pleasure

Don't miss the opportunity to enjoy in the Steingasse: the legendary Steinterrasse provides guests with panoramic views over the Town as well as gourmet cuisine. For more exquisite delicacies, visit maier's restaurant. If you prefer something more rustic and traditional, the Andreas Hofer Weinstube is the place to be. If you fancy a drink in the evening, stop by at Saitensprung or Terrazza di Eduardo.

Goldgasse & Judengasse: a magical shopping experience 

We change over to the Old Town on the left bank of the river. Short as it is, the Goldgasse offers 200m of magical charm. Where once many different craftsmen and gold dealers plied their trade, today a special microcosm awaits the visitor, with tastefully decorated little shops in a mediaeval ambience. There is much to be discovered in the shop-windows, but also above them; between the guild signs, the houses bear ornaments, pictures and statues of the Madonna, and inscriptions designed to protect the house and its residents. Look up at no. 11 to read a precept which is timelessly valid: "Geh ein und aus mit frohem Sinn, dann wohnen frohe Leute drin" [Go in and out with joyful mien, then those within will live serene].

Running parallel to the Goldgasse is the Judengasse which, like the Steingasse and the Goldgasse, is one of the oldest lanes in the Old Town. This historic Shopping street, too, has many stories to tell – as for instance that of "Fanny", the brewer Franziska Kobler, who ran the legendary Höllbräu in the 18th century. A guild sign on the façade of what is now the Hotel Altstadt Radisson is still a reminder of the alewife's hospitality and her tasty beer.

The oldest lanes, the latest trends

The historic Shopping lanes in Salzburg's Old Town have much to offer. For tradition costumes with that special touch, look in at Hanna Trachten. Sneaker fans will find their heart's desire at Goldinni's. Places for stylish Italian fashion are C5 Rinascimento and Boggi Milano; for high fashion and lifestyle products with a difference, visit the Gehmacher shops. You will also find unusual antiques, jewellers, delicatessens and other treasures. Explore Salzburg's distinctive Shopping streets and find fine souvenirs to take home.

If you would like to find out more stories about Salzburg's beautiful Old Town, town guide Astrid Zehentmayer of salzburgforyou.at will be happy to show you around, on tours with themes ranging from culinary adventures to culture, nature and history – with fascinating anecdotes and fun facts.