Residenzplatz - At christkindlmarkt Salzburg, Austria.
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Residenzplatz

4.6
·4k reviews·Salzburg, Austria

A magnificent 16th-century Baroque square in Salzburg, Austria, featuring a grand fountain and surrounded by historic palaces.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Morning

Fewer crowds, softer light

CrowdLow
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Residenzplatz - At christkindlmarkt Salzburg, Austria.

Residenzplatz

Best Time

Morning

Fewer crowds, softer light

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A magnificent 16th-century Baroque square in Salzburg, Austria, featuring a grand fountain and surrounded by historic palaces.

4.6
(4k reviews)

"A stunning Baroque square, the heart of Salzburg's Old Town, perfect for soaking in history and grandeur."

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Capture the Fountain

The Residenzbrunnen is stunning! Try different angles, especially with the surrounding buildings. :camerawithflash:

🐴 Carriage Ride Charm

A carriage ride is a classic Salzburg experience. Negotiate price beforehand if possible. :horse:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Residenzbrunnen Fountain

Residenzbrunnen Fountain

Center of Residenzplatz

A magnificent 16th-century Baroque fountain, a true masterpiece and the heart of the square.

Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides

Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides

Residenzplatz

Experience Salzburg's charming Old Town from a traditional Fiaker carriage.

Architectural Ensemble

Architectural Ensemble

Surrounding Residenzplatz

Admire the New Residence, Old Residence, and the adjacent Salzburg Cathedral.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Baroque Grandeur

Residenzplatz is a stunning Baroque square, perfect for soaking in Salzburg's history. Expect to pass through it naturally while exploring the Old Town, often linking the Cathedral and Residenz. It's a central hub, so timing can impact crowds.

Fountain Views & Carriage Rides

The magnificent Residenzbrunnen (Residenz Fountain) is the square's centerpiece. Horse-drawn carriages often gather here, offering scenic tours. Be aware that while beautiful, some visitors note occasional unpleasant odors.

Best Times

When
Morning
Why
Fewer crowds, softer light
Crowd
Low
When
Evening
Why
Atmospheric lighting
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Munich for two days: Which castle to see and what other attractions to cram in? Best beer hall?

📸 Capture the Fountain

The Residenzbrunnen is stunning! Try different angles, especially with the surrounding buildings. :camerawithflash:

🐴 Carriage Ride Charm

A carriage ride is a classic Salzburg experience. Negotiate price beforehand if possible. :horse:

🚶‍♀️ Stroll Through

You'll likely pass through Residenzplatz naturally. Take a moment to appreciate the scale and architecture. :walking:

👃 Be Prepared

Some visitors mention occasional unpleasant smells. It's a busy public space, so be aware. :warning:

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Capture the Fountain

The Residenzbrunnen is stunning! Try different angles, especially with the surrounding buildings. :camerawithflash:

🐴 Carriage Ride Charm

A carriage ride is a classic Salzburg experience. Negotiate price beforehand if possible. :horse:

🚶‍♀️ Stroll Through

You'll likely pass through Residenzplatz naturally. Take a moment to appreciate the scale and architecture. :walking:

👃 Be Prepared

Some visitors mention occasional unpleasant smells. It's a busy public space, so be aware. :warning:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(4k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Residenzplatz is widely praised for its stunning Baroque architecture and the magnificent central fountain, offering a grand introduction to Salzburg's historic charm. Visitors appreciate its central location and the opportunity for scenic carriage rides. However, some note occasional unpleasant odors, which can detract from the otherwise beautiful experience.

"Well, it's hardly "missable" because you'll probably stroll through the old quarters of Salzburg, probably visit the Fortress and/or the Cathedral (Dom zu Salzburg) and of course you'll have to pass by this superb Residenzplatz and its monumental fountain in its Center.
Beautiful as all Salzburg is."

Dan Maarek

"Residenzplatz is a beautiful square in Salzburg’s Old Town, surrounded by historic buildings and featuring a grand central fountain. It’s a popular spot where horse-drawn carriages line up, offering rides through the city. The square has a lively yet relaxed atmosphere, making it a great place to pause and take in the surroundings."

Wesley Wong

"Spacious square where you can see some famous buildings of Salzburg: new and old palaces, a church with medieval origins and the monumental cathedral"

jose lourenco

What People Like

Magnificent Baroque fountain
Grand architecture
Central location

What People Dislike

Occasional unpleasant smells

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Residenzplatz is located in the heart of Salzburg's Old Town (Altstadt). It's easily accessible on foot if you're staying in or near the city center. Public buses also stop frequently nearby, with many routes serving the 'Salzburg Rathaus' or 'Salzburg Mozartsteg' stops, both a short walk away. Reddit

Yes, Residenzplatz is about a 15-20 minute walk from Salzburg Hauptbahnhof. The walk takes you across the Salzach River and through charming streets, making it a pleasant journey. Reddit

Parking in the immediate vicinity of Residenzplatz is limited due to its pedestrian-friendly Old Town location. The nearest major parking garages are the CONTIPARK Parkhaus Mönchsberg or the Parkgarage Altstadt Garage. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Residenzplatz is a public square and is free to enter and explore at any time. You only need tickets for attractions located around the square, such as the Residenz or the Salzburg Cathedral. Reddit

Residenzplatz is an open public space and is accessible 24/7. However, the surrounding buildings like the Residenz have their own specific opening hours. Reddit

The Residenzbrunnen is a central feature of the public square and does not have an entrance fee. It's a beautiful sight to admire as part of your visit to Residenzplatz. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

For the best light and fewer crowds, aim for early morning. Golden hour in the late afternoon also offers beautiful lighting for capturing the Baroque architecture and the fountain. TikTok

The Residenzbrunnen fountain itself is a prime subject. Also, try framing shots that include the grand facades of the Residenz buildings and the Salzburg Cathedral in the background. Instagram

Absolutely! The horse-drawn carriages add a charming element to photos. Be respectful of passengers and drivers when taking pictures. Reddit

🎫 🚶‍♀️ Onsite Experience

Residenzplatz is primarily a place to admire Baroque architecture, the central fountain, and soak in the atmosphere. It's a starting point for exploring nearby attractions like the Salzburg Cathedral and the Residenz. Horse-drawn carriage rides are also a popular activity. Reddit

Yes, Residenzplatz is a venue for various events, including the famous Salzburg Christmas Market (Christkindlmarkt) and occasional concerts or sporting events. Check local listings for any happenings during your visit. Reddit

The square is largely flat and paved, making it generally accessible for strollers and wheelchairs. However, cobblestones can be uneven in places, so proceed with caution. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Residenzplatz is a great open space for families to stretch their legs while exploring Salzburg's Old Town. The Residenzbrunnen fountain is often a hit with children, providing a visually engaging centerpiece. While there aren't specific play areas, the sheer size of the square allows kids some room to move around. TikTok

Consider a horse-drawn carriage ride as a special treat for the family. It's a memorable way to see the city from a different perspective. Be mindful that the square can get crowded, so keeping a close eye on children is recommended. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Budget Travelers

Residenzplatz itself is completely free to explore, making it an excellent budget-friendly stop. You can admire the Baroque architecture and the impressive fountain without spending a euro. Reddit

It serves as a fantastic starting point for exploring other free attractions in the Old Town, like wandering through the charming streets or admiring the exterior of the Salzburg Cathedral. Pack some snacks and water to enjoy while taking in the sights, as food and drink prices in the immediate vicinity can be higher. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Majestic Residenzbrunnen

The Residenzbrunnen is the undisputed star of Residenzplatz. Commissioned in the 16th century, this monumental Baroque fountain is one of the largest of its kind north of the Alps. It features a central obelisk adorned with mythological figures and water spouting from various levels, creating a dynamic and impressive spectacle. It's a testament to the grandeur of Salzburg's past and a focal point for visitors. TikTok

Many visitors find the fountain to be a perfect spot for photos, especially when the light hits it just right. The intricate details and the sheer scale of the fountain are often highlighted in reviews and social media posts, making it a must-see element of the square. Instagram

While the fountain is a beautiful centerpiece, it's worth noting that its surrounding area can get quite busy, especially during peak tourist seasons. Be prepared for crowds if you're visiting during midday. Reddit

Exploring the Surrounding Architecture

Residenzplatz is framed by some of Salzburg's most significant historical buildings, offering a rich architectural experience. To the north stands the Neue Residenz (New Residence), a magnificent Baroque palace that once housed the prince-archbishops. Its impressive facade and interior courtyards are a sight to behold. Reddit

Adjacent to the New Residence is the Alte Residenz (Old Residence), which predates the Baroque era and showcases earlier architectural styles. Together, these palaces create a sense of historical depth and grandeur. The Salzburg Cathedral (Dom zu Salzburg), a stunning Baroque Roman Catholic cathedral, is also directly accessible from the square, adding another layer of architectural splendor to the vicinity. Reddit

Visitors often remark on how these buildings collectively contribute to the overwhelming beauty of the square. Taking the time to appreciate the details of each facade and understanding their historical significance enhances the overall experience of visiting Residenzplatz. Instagram

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