Salzburg: Sound of Music Tour & Schnitzel Lunch

Summary

Follow Maria’s footsteps through Salzburg’s film landmarks then taste schnitzel in a cozy old inn

You’ll wander through Salzburg with a local guide who brings The Sound of Music scenes to life — from Mirabell Gardens to Mondsee Cathedral. Expect laughter on the bus, photo stops by lakes and palaces, and finally schnitzel and noodles in an old-world restaurant. If you love nostalgia or just want to taste real Austrian comfort food after exploring famous film spots, this tour sticks with you long after.

What’s the experience like?

Ever wondered if the Mirabell Gardens really look like they do in The Sound of Music? I did, so I signed up for this Sound of Music tour in Salzburg (with schnitzel and noodle lunch — honestly, that clinched it for me). Our guide, Anna, knew every little detail — she even sang a bit of “Do-Re-Mi” under her breath as we walked past the Pegasus Fountain. The gardens were full of roses and tourists humming the soundtrack. It’s funny how everyone tries those steps from the movie — I nearly tripped on mine.

We drove out past Nonnberg Abbey (Anna pointed out where Maria was a novice — not quite as peaceful now with buses rumbling by), then stopped at Hellbrunn Palace. The glass gazebo is smaller than I expected, but you can almost hear the echo from that kissing scene. There was a light drizzle that made everything smell green and sharp; my jacket got damp but nobody seemed to mind. At Lake Leopoldskron, the water mirrored the palace so perfectly it felt staged. Someone’s phone rang with “Edelweiss” as their ringtone and everyone cracked up — even Anna lost it for a second.

The last stop was Mondsee Cathedral, where they filmed the wedding. Inside, it was cool and smelled faintly of candle wax. I sat for a minute just listening to my own footsteps echoing off the stone. Afterward, we wandered through Mondsee town — pastel houses, bakery smells drifting out onto the street. I didn’t expect to feel so nostalgic about a movie I hadn’t watched in years.

The tour ended back in Salzburg but not at our starting point — you get a voucher for lunch or dinner at Herzl restaurant (it’s about 15 minutes’ walk). My schnitzel was crisp and hot, noodles creamy with cheese sauce (parmesan, though there’s gorgonzola too if you want). Apple strudel for dessert — warm cinnamon smell everywhere. I still think about that first bite sometimes when I hear “My Favorite Things.” So yeah, if you’re even half a fan or just curious about Salzburg’s scenery, this day trip is worth it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Sound of Music filming locations tour

• See Mirabell Gardens and Pegasus Fountain
• Pass by Nonnberg Convent
• Visit Hellbrunn Palace glass gazebo
• Photo stop at Lake Leopoldskron
• Photo stop at Lake Wolfgang
• Leisure time in Mondsee and visit Basilika St. Michael
• Collect lunch or dinner voucher
• Enjoy 3-course meal at Herzl restaurant

Top questions

How long does the Sound of Music tour in Salzburg last?

The tour lasts around 4 hours before your meal at Herzl restaurant.

Is lunch included on this Sound of Music day trip?

Yes, your booking includes a three-course meal: soup, schnitzel with noodles, and apple strudel.

What filming locations are visited on this Salzburg tour?

You’ll see Mirabell Gardens, Nonnberg Abbey (from outside), Hellbrunn Palace’s gazebo, Leopoldskron Palace lake view, and Mondsee Cathedral inside.

Can vegetarians join this Sound of Music tour?

Yes, vegetarian options are available upon request for your meal.

Is pickup included for this Salzburg Sound of Music experience?

No hotel pickup; you meet at the designated starting point in central Salzburg.

How far is Herzl restaurant from where the tour ends?

The Herzl restaurant is about a 15-minute walk from the end point; your guide will explain how to get there.

Are children allowed on this day trip from Salzburg?

Yes; infants can ride in strollers or sit on an adult's lap during transport.

Is this tour suitable for people using wheelchairs?

Collapsible wheelchairs are accommodated if someone assists boarding/disembarking.

What’s included

Your day includes live guided bus touring through iconic Sound of Music locations around Salzburg like Mirabell Gardens and Mondsee Cathedral; all entrance fees; plus after-tour lunch or dinner at Herzl restaurant featuring soup, turkey schnitzel with cheesy noodles (or vegetarian option), and apple strudel before you head off on your own again.