Although the Austrian Alps loom close to Salzburg, you don't need to make that relatively short drive southwards to get a fix of clean mountain air and spectacular views. The mountains have come to Salzburg, in the shape of Kapuzinerberg, a tree-lined ridge right in the heart of the city. Unlike Salzburg's other dramatic mountain on the Salzach's left bank (Festungsberg) Kapuzinerberg isn't sprawled over by a large castle complex. Instead it offers unspoilt woods, long treks and the challenge of climbing the 220 metres from the river to its summit.
Wildlife can be found within a few minutes of the bustle of central Salzburg here—go quietly and you could spot pine martins, deer, badgers and even chamois. There are several way-marked routes to take through its beech woods, some leading to quite meadows, others to historic sights.
One of the most impressive is one of the easiest to reach—the Kapuzinerkloster, or Kapuzin Cloister. This Abbey for the Capuchin monks was built in 1594 and lies close to the Old Town, not too far up the Kapuzinerberg's steep slope. It also has a good view back onto that ancient part of the city. Deeper into the woods, and further up the slopes, is a memorial plaque for Mozart (he often came here for musical inspiration) and the remnants of many old artillery emplacements.
The best view to be had from Kapuzinerberg requires a bit more stamina, but is well worth the effort. Franziskischlossl, or Francis′ Castle, was built in 1629 and is a small outpost right at the summit. It was once part of the wider fortifications of Kapuzinerberg, thrown up by Prince Archbishop Paris Lodron in the 17th century. You're likely to find the remains of those walls all over the mountain. But Franziskischlossl is special. First, because it's now a friendly inn, with refreshments and hospitality on tap to quickly recharge you, after your exertions. And second, as the highest point in Salzburg, the views from here are unparalleled.
With so much to see, and fine food and drink close by, you may find going down Kapuzinerberg harder than getting up.
Kapuzinerberg Hill
![Kapuzinerberg Hill showing heritage architecture and chateau or palace](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/47000/47357-Kapuzinerberg.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh)
![Kapuzinerberg Hill showing heritage architecture, heritage elements and a castle](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/47000/47353-Kapuzinerberg.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh)
![Kapuzinerberg Hill showing a city and forests](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/47000/47351-Kapuzinerberg.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh)
![Kapuzinerberg Hill which includes a city](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/47000/47356-Kapuzinerberg.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh)
![Kapuzinerberg Hill which includes a river or creek and a bridge](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/47000/47354-Kapuzinerberg.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh)
Visit Kapuzinerberg Hill
Tours & day trips
See all 153 activities![Salzburg Day Trip from Vienna](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/176027/d6f84f81-1639-4b73-8209-c3c1c8996ee9.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=500&rh=280)
Salzburg Day Trip from Vienna
Private & custom tours
See all 92 activities![From Salzburg: Private Tour of Konigssee and Berchtesgaden](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/47899779/0678acdf-d5a1-42d7-8610-701ca6794ab1.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=500&rh=280)
From Salzburg: Private Tour of Konigssee and Berchtesgaden
Shows & concerts
See all 13 activities![Salzburg: Mozart Concert at Mirabell Palace](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/5082570/f6699e57-ee40-49d5-a12e-a2606dfb77f3.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=500&rh=280)
Salzburg: Mozart Concert at Mirabell Palace
Adventure & outdoor
See all 10 activities![Private Konigssee and Salt Mine Day Trip from Salzburg](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/47693369/196ff4d7-85ca-4e6b-9e8a-ba29ab5ed2fe.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=500&rh=280)
Private Konigssee and Salt Mine Day Trip from Salzburg
Shopping & fashion
See all 3 activities![Salzburg 2.5-Hour Walking Tour: Mozart, Old Town & More](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/4820665/6ba5bb0d-5b0b-42c1-9349-7a5a9db9a17c.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=500&rh=280)
Salzburg 2.5-Hour Walking Tour: Mozart, Old Town & More
Popular places to visit
![Mozart Monument](https://mediaim.expedia.com/destination/2/113c80229b54334d6daf2c728f26effe.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh)
Mozart Monument
You can find out about the history of Salzburg when you stop by Mozart Monument. Amble around this romantic area's picturesque gardens and enjoy its top-notch restaurants.
![Mozartplatz Square featuring cycling, a statue or sculpture and a monument](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/47000/47410-Mozart-Square-Mozartplatz.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh)
Mozartplatz Square
Mozart was born and grew up a stone's throw from the square that bears his name, which now has a memorial to the maestro as its centrepiece.
![Salzburg showing a river or creek, a city and heritage architecture](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/47000/47540-Salzburg.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh)
Linzer Gasse
During your trip to Salzburg, you can find the perfect gifts to bring home at Linzer Gasse. While in this walkable area, you can savor the top-notch restaurants.
![Salzburg Museum which includes art](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/47000/47530-Salzburg-Museum.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh)
Salzburg Museum
Discover the rich historical and cultural heritage of Salzburg at this award-winning museum, located in a palace complete with a chiming bell tower.
![Mozarteum University of Salzburg](https://mediaim.expedia.com/destination/2/6733d2a65f758a0dc1507bcfc25d7bc0.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh)
Mozarteum University of Salzburg
Explore the campus of Mozarteum University of Salzburg as part of your travels around Salzburg. Make time for the shops and local tours in this romantic area.
![Residenzplatz Square which includes outdoor art, a fountain and a statue or sculpture](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/36000/36826-Residenzplatz.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh)
Residenzplatz Square
A cathedral, a grand plaza, some even grander palaces, and a Baroque fountain that steals the show.
Top Hotel Deals
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