the sound of music tour salzburg

The Sound of Music

Tours, packages & concerts.

The Original Sound of Music Tour ®

Join our wonderful Original Sound of Music Tour ®. Start at Mirabell Gardens and visit the original film locations like Leopoldskron Palace, Nonnberg abbey and Hellbrunn Palace.

Follow the traces of the  Trapp family  and take a tour to Salzburg and its surroundings. Visit all of the  original film  settings and feel, how  Julie Andrews , the main character in the film, felt by playing  Maria von Trapp .

Relax and listen to the Original Sound of Music soundtrack.  You will not just see lots of highlights of the movie "The Sound of Music", but also get to know historical and architectural landmarks in the city as well as in the Lake District area.

Recommended by Rick Steves!

Book this tour online  on the Panorama Tours website!

Sound of Music - Private Half-Day Tour

Join us on our wonderful private Sound of Music Tour with breathtaking views!

Follow the traces of the  Trapp family  and take a tour through Salzburg and its surroundings. Visit the original film locations of the famous movie "The Sound of Music" filmed in 1964.

Right after release, the film became a tremendous success, awarded with 5 Oscars becoming the highest grossing movie ever and reaching cult status over the years.

Duration: 4 hours

Book this private tour  on the Panorama Tours website.

Sound of Music at Schloss Leopoldskron

The  Rococo-Palace Leopoldskron  will be your host for 2 overnights and this building is famous as it was  one of the movie locations of "The Sound of Music" . You stay overnight in one of the comfortable rooms of Meierhof and enjoy breakfast buffet whether at the Marble Hall or the ballroom of the palace.

Included services: 

• 2 x overnights/buffet breakfast at Schloss Leopoldskron / House Meierhof
• Welcome drink
• Free bike rental, free WiFi, free usage of public pool Leopoldskron (in summer), 1 bottle water per person/day
• Original Sound of Music Tour ® with free hotel pick-up
• Sweet souvenir

Book this package online  on the Panorama Tours Website!

Sound of Music Special

Spend two nights in the UNESCO World Heritage city of Salzburg - a city full of history & culture.

Combine your city trip with the Original Sound of Music Tour ® and explore the orginal film locations.

Included services:

• 2 overnights in a centrally located 4-star hotel 
• Original Sound of Music Tour ® with hotel pick-up
• "Sound of Music" colouring book for children
• Information and leaflets of Salzburg await you upon your arrival at the hotel

Book this package online  on the Panorama Tours website!

Sound of Music & Hallstatt - Private Full-Day Tour

Combine our most popular tours with this private full day tour exploring the picturesque World Heritage City of Salzburg as well as the breathtaking landscape of the Lakes and Mountain area.

Visit the picturesque village of Hallstatt - a destination of most unique historical and cultural significance, be sure not to miss this hidden gem. 

  Book this combination online  on our Panorama Tours website.

Super Saver - Salt Mine Tour & Original Sound of Music Tour ®

Save money and enjoy one day in Salzburg and its surroundings, like the Lake District and Berchtesgaden.

Spend half a day and follow the footsteps of the Trapp Family, while you visit the orignal film locations from "The Sound of Music" during our Original Sound of Music Tour ®.

The other half day you visit the Salt Mine in Berchtesgaden.

Book this combination online  on our Panorama Tours Website.

The Sound of Music at Salzburg Marionette Theatre

Enjoy a wonderful evening at the Salzburg Marionette Theatre and spend some time with the marionette puppets playing the story of the famous movie "The Sound of Music".

Book the ticket online  on our Panorama Tours website.

Sound of Music Tour & Trail - Private Full-Day Tour

• Private tour to the Sound of Music film locations in Salzburg, Salzkammergut and Werfen
• Start your day with breakfast inside Schloss Leopoldskron
• Sing 'Sixteen Going on Seventeen' at the real Gazebo, in the garden of  Hellbrunn Palace
• In Werfen hike on the new  Sound of Music   Trail  and have a break at the same meadow, where  Maria  sang “do re mi” with the children
• Lunch at Obauer one of the top three restaurants in Austria (optional)
• Visit the remarkable Fortress Hohenwerfen (also known from the movie), dating back over 900 years (optional)
• Visit the beautiful Lake District, Salzkammergut and the Sound of Music Wedding Cathedral in Mondsee 

Book this private tour online  on the Panorama Tours Website!

Sound of Music Tour with Schnitzel & Noodles

Make your Original Sound of Music Tour ® even more special and treat yourself to a  3 course Sound of Music menu  after the tour at the  renowned traditional restaurant "s’Herzl" . 

Want to see more?

Experience sound of music.

Book your tour now

Check out our tours for fans of "The Sound of Music" in Salzburg: Original Sound of Music Tour, Sound of Music Tour with Schnitzel & Noodles, Sound of Music Private Tours, Sound of Music Special Package, Sound of Music at Schloss Leopoldskron Package and many more.

The Original Sound of Music Tour

Adults 60.00€ | Children 30.00€

Are you a fan of The Sound of Music ? Then you can't miss this tour!

Relive with us the making-of the ‚Sound of Music‘ movie in and around Salzburg. This tour, which has been Salzburg’s most popular tour since 1967, is a combination of both historical Salzburg and the breathtaking Lakes and Mountains region . Our guide will show you many of the film locations from the ‘Sound of Music’ and share not only background stories of the movie but also the history and culture of the region. Find out with us whether the hills of Salzburg truly are alive with the ‘Sound of Music’ as you listen to the original movie Soundtrack along the way.

The whole tour is held in English !

Please meet us at Mirabellplatz / Corner Hubert-Sattler-Gasse 1, 5020 Salzburg (Panorama Tours Bus Terminal) some minutes before the tour starts and show your ticket.

• Mirabell Gardens: Shown in many scenes including where Maria and the children sang ‘Do-Re-Mi’.  
• The Gazebo: Where Rolf and Liesl sang ‘Sixteen Going on Seventeen’ and Maria and the Baron sang ‘Something Good’.  
• Palace of Leopoldskron: This historical palace and its ground provided many filming locations including the lake where the boating scene took place.  
• Nonnberg Abbey: This historical abbey was used both in the movie and the true story. In real life Maria and the Baron where married here in 1927.
• St. Gilgen/Lake Wolfgang: This picturesque area was featured in the opening sequence of the movie. The village of St. Gilgen is situated directly across from the famous Schafberg mountain.  
• Church of Mondsee: The Sound of Music Wedding Church. This historical church of Mondsee was the location of the movie wedding between Maria and the Baron.
• 09:15 AM & 14:00 PM

Mirabellplatz / Ecke Hubert-Sattler-Gasse 1 , 5020   Vienna

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13 Must-See Sound of Music Tours in Salzburg

Charlotte Moser

July 23, 2023

Salzburg, Austria, holds a special place in the hearts of fans of The Sound of Music. This picturesque city is where the iconic movie was filmed, and it attracts thousands of tourists each year who want to experience the magic firsthand. While most Austrians may not be familiar with the film, visitors can’t help but hum along to the beloved songs and explore the enchanting locations featured in the movie. 

“The hills are alive with the sound of music!” – Maria

From the grand Mirabell Gardens to the charming Nonnberg Abbey, 13 must-see Sound of Music tour locations in Salzburg transports you into the world of Maria and the von Trapp family. Let’s embark on a delightful journey through these iconic spots and relive the joy of this timeless classic.

Here are 13 must-see tour locations that will transport you into the world of Maria and the von Trapp family.

1. Leopoldskron Castle

Visit the majestic Leopoldskron Castle, which served as the von Trapp family home in the movie. Stroll along the shores of Leopoldskron Lake, where the children had a mischievous boating adventure. 

Take in the serene beauty of the surroundings and imagine the von Trapp family’s life within the walls of this historic castle. With its stunning architecture and picturesque lake, Leopoldskron Castle offers a glimpse into the captivating world of The Sound of Music.

2. Mirabell Palace & Gardens

Step into the enchanting world of The Sound of Music at Mirabell Palace & Gardens. This picturesque location is where Maria and the children joyfully danced around the statue of Pegasus, singing their famous “Do-Re-Mi” song. 

“Do-Re-Mi, a female deer. Ray, a drop of golden sun.” – Maria

Explore the beautifully manicured gardens, stroll along the pathways, and relive the iconic scenes that captured the hearts of millions. With its vibrant atmosphere and musical history, Mirabell Palace & Gardens is a must-visit destination for any Sound of Music fan.

3. Horse Bath

Transport yourself to the scene where Maria and the children dance past the Horse Bath while singing “My Favorite Things.” This picturesque location adds a touch of charm to the movie and offers a delightful backdrop for capturing memorable photos. 

Experience the magic of the movie firsthand as you immerse yourself in the surroundings and create your special moments.

4. Winkler Terrace

 Ascend Monk’s Hill and discover the breathtaking Winkler Terrace overlooking the Old Town of Salzburg. This is where Maria and the children brought their infectious energy, mixing up the musical notes of “Do Re Mi” as they introduced the song to Salzburg. 

Stand in awe of the panoramic view, feel the gentle breeze, and let the melodies of the movie resonate in your heart. Winkler Terrace is a serene spot that encapsulates the joy and harmony that The Sound of Music evokes.

5. Hedge Maze & Gnome Park

Enter the whimsical world of the “Do-Re-Mi” song at the Hedge Maze & Gnome Park. Follow in the footsteps of Maria and the children as they skip through the vine tunnel and playfully interact with the charming gnome with glasses. 

This delightful location is perfect for families, allowing children to unleash their imaginations and immerse themselves in the magic of The Sound of Music.

6. Rock Riding School

Step inside the historic Rock Riding School, which played a pivotal role in some of the most memorable scenes from The Sound of Music. Let your imagination run wild as you envision these walls’ lively performances and heartwarming moments. 

The Rock Riding School is where history and film intertwine, creating an atmosphere that will transport you back in time.

7. Hellbrunn Castle and the Glass Pavilion

“I have confidence in sunshine. I have confidence in rain. I have confidence that spring will come again!” – Maria

Embark on a journey to Hellbrunn Castle, an architectural gem from the 17th century. Explore its captivating gardens and discover the mesmerizing glass pavilion that has fascinated visitors for over 30 years. 

Marvel at the beauty of the surroundings and imagine the von Trapp family roaming these grounds as you walk in their footsteps. Hellbrunn Castle and the Glass Pavilion are a testament to the timeless allure of The Sound of Music.

8. Mondsee Wedding Church

Experience the magic of Maria and the Baron’s wedding by visiting the picturesque Mondsee Wedding Church. Step into the same church where their fictional union took place and feel the romance and joy that filled the air. 

Admire exquisite architecture, explore the charming town of Mondsee, and let the spirit of love and celebration resonate within you.

9. Nonnberg Abbey

Delve into the rich history of Nonnberg Abbey, one of Europe’s oldest convents. This sacred place served as Maria’s home as a novice and was the backdrop for the enchanting wedding scene in the film. 

Explore the abbey’s tranquil surroundings, admire its architectural beauty, and feel a sense of serenity as you discover the connection between The Sound of Music and this sacred location.

10. St Gilgen and Lake Wolfgang

Embark on a scenic journey to St Gilgen and Lake Wolfgang, featured at the beginning of The Sound of Music. Bask in the landscape’s natural beauty as you gaze upon the stunning lake and surrounding mountains.

Take a moment to soak in the tranquility and reflect on the movie’s opening scenes that captured this beautiful region’s essence.

11. Werfen Picnic Meadow

Venture to the idyllic Werfen Picnic Meadow, perched above the village of Werfen. This picturesque location is where Maria and the children shared a delightful picnic and began singing the iconic “Do Re, Mi” song. 

Take in the breathtaking views, feel the fresh air on your skin, and let the melodies of the movie fill the atmosphere. The Werfen Picnic Meadow offers a serene and memorable experience for The Sound of Music fans.

12. Frohnburg Palace

Journey to Frohnburg Palace, the magnificent backdrop for the von Trapp family home. Marvel at the elegance and grandeur of this palace, which was featured in five pivotal scenes of the film. 

Let your imagination transport you to the world of the von Trapps as you walk through the halls and gardens, reliving the special moments that have captured the hearts of generations.

13. Peter’s Cemetery and Catacombs

Discover the tranquil beauty of St. Peter’s Cemetery and Catacombs, a historic site featured in The Sound of Music. This serene cemetery, with its rows of picturesque tombstones and peaceful atmosphere, is where Maria and the children hid from the Nazis in the film. 

Wander through the winding pathways, surrounded by lush greenery and ancient tombstones, and feel a sense of tranquility as you connect with the scenes from the movie. 

Explore the catacombs beneath the cemetery, where you can delve into Salzburg’s intriguing history. St. Peter’s Cemetery and Catacombs offer a unique and contemplative experience for The Sound of Music fans and history enthusiasts.

Exploring the Locations of The Sound of Music

Transportation options.

• Bus Tours: Convenient transportation to all filming locations.
• Walking Tours: Explore on foot and enjoy the surrounding areas.
• Bicycle Tours: Fun and affordable way to visit the sites.

Cost and Booking Information

• Tour Prices: Starting at around 45€ for Sound of Music tours.
• Tour Providers: Viator, GetYourGuide, Musement, and more.
• Package Inclusions: Transportation, tour guide, combined tickets, lunch, museum visits, and other attractions.
• Discounts and Seasonal Offers: Check for special deals and reduced prices.

When planning your Sound of Music tour, you can choose between different modes of transportation. Bus tours provide a hassle-free experience while walking tours allow for more flexibility and exploration. Alternatively, bicycle tours offer a unique and enjoyable way to discover the sites.

Tour prices typically start around 45€ and vary depending on the provider and package inclusions. Popular tour companies like Viator, GetYourGuide, and Musement offer similar experiences, including transportation, knowledgeable guides, and various add-ons such as combined tickets, lunch, and museum visits. 

Keep an eye out for discounts and seasonal offers that may be available at certain times of the year.

To book your tour, you can use TourScanner’s search feature to compare prices and options from different providers, ensuring you find the best tour that suits your preferences and budget.

“Climb every mountain, ford every stream, follow every rainbow, ’til you find your dream.” – Mother Abbess

In conclusion, exploring the locations of The Sound of Music in Salzburg offers a delightful journey into the world of Maria and the von Trapp family. With 13 must-see tour locations, ranging from majestic castles and picturesque gardens to charming churches and historical sites, visitors can relive the magic of this timeless classic. 

Whether you embark on a bus tour for convenience, take a walking tour to immerse yourself in the surroundings, or enjoy a bicycle tour for a fun and affordable experience, there are transportation options to suit every preference. 

With tour prices starting at around 45€ and various providers offering inclusive packages and special offers, booking your Sound of Music tour has never been easier. So, get ready to sing along and create unforgettable memories as you explore the enchanting locations that captured the hearts of millions.

How long is the Sound of Music tour in Salzburg?

The Sound of Music tour in Salzburg typically lasts around 4 hours. It is available daily at 9:15 AM and 2:00 PM, but pre-booking is recommended, especially during Christmas and New Year, to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience without any delays.

Can you do a Sound of Music tour yourself?

Yes, you can do a self-guided Sound of Music tour in Salzburg. This walking tour is approximately 4 kilometers long and can be completed in 2-3 hours. Feel free to take your time, enjoy the journey, and make pit stops at charming cafes.

Is it worth doing the Sound of Music tour in Salzburg?

Yes, it’s worth doing the Sound of Music tour in Salzburg. It offers a breathtaking experience, even if you need to become more familiar with the movie. The Original Sound of Music Tour is a fantastic way to explore Austria’s beautiful region and appreciate the film’s charm.

Can you go inside The Sound of Music House?

You can stay inside The Sound of Music House, known as Meierhof. Experience a comfortable overnight stay in its rooms and enjoy a delicious breakfast buffet in either the Marble Hall or the palace’s ballroom. Additionally, you can visit various filming locations during the 4-hour Original Sound of Music Tour.

Charlotte Moser has a passion for traveling and exploring different cultures, cuisines, and lifestyles. She loves to share her experiences and trips with his readers, who are looking for some inspiration and guidance on how to make the most of their time in Austria.

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The Sound of Music Tour

Leopoldskron Palace, Nonnberg Abbey, the Mirabell Gardens, the gazebo in the gardens of Hellbrunn Palace, the church in Mondsee where the wedding took place: fans of the movie can take part in the Original Sound of Music Tour® and visit all of these filming locations in one day.

Sing Maria’s famous “Do-Re-Mi” song once you get to the Pegasus Fountain in Salzburg’s Mirabell Gardens, featured in one of the “Sound of Music’s” original scenes. Take a photo in the very same gazebo in Hellbrunn Garden where Maria and Baron von Trapp kissed. Reverently enter the church in Mondsee where the two exchange marriage vows. The wishes of all “Sound of Music” fans come true when they are able to do all these things in just one day on the Original Sound of Music Tour organised by Salzburg Panorama Tours .

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Experience the “Sound of Music” up close

The “Original Sound of Music Tour” is a live tour led by guides who are experts in the field. Whilst travelling to and stopping off at the filming locations in and around Salzburg, they divulge fascinating background information about the “Sound of Music” film, anecdotes from the actors’ days on the film set and interesting facts about the von Trapp family. Follow in the footsteps of the multi-Oscar winning film and experience the legend at first hand!

The “Sound of Music” location tour stops

It goes without saying that Salzburg’s Mirabell Gardens are a permanent feature of the tour, as is Hohensalzburg Fortress, which is another highlight of Salzburg’s historic Old Town. It’s here that Maria sings the famous “Do-Re-Mi” song with her Trapp protégés at the Pegasus Fountain and on the steps leading directly to the Mirabell Gardens.

© Salzburg Panorama Tours

Then it’s off on the Original Sound of Music Tour Bus, from which tour participants can take a look at Nonnberg Abbey, to the idyllically placed Leopoldskron Palace. The lake on which the palace sits should be well known to all fans, as it’s where the famous boat scene took place. It’s then followed by one of the tour’s real highlights, a visit to the gazebo in the Hellbrunn Garden. The pavilion was renovated and made accessible especially for the “Sound of Music”. So, it’s absolutely perfect for taking a photo, in that very spot in which Maria and Baron von Trapp’s kiss scene once took place. In the Salzburg Lake District visitors can expect breath-taking views of the Fuschlsee and Wolfgangsee lakes, landmarks that repeatedly assume scenic lead roles in the “Sound of Music”. The grand finale is the church in Mondsee where Maria and Baron von Trapp got married, and you can use it as your base from which to explore Mondsee.

The “Original Sound of Music Tour” is an absolute highlight for all “Sound of Music” fans upon visiting Salzburg and it’s absolutely not to be missed.  Seeing the original movie locations in just one day is guaranteed to make the eyes of all “Sound of Music” fans eyes light up.

Sound of Music Original Tour

Come and join us on a wonderful ride with breathtaking views and explore the original shooting locations from the sound of music in salzburg and the lake district including the wedding church in mondsee..

Tour the picturesque World Heritage City of Salzburg  as well as the beautiful landscapes where the opening scenes of the movie  The Sound of Music  were filmed with our live guide!

Sound of Music

Public tour

English , Deutsch

From £ 51 per person

• Meeting point: Panorama Tours Bus Terminal
• Leopoldskron Palace
• Hellbrunn Palace
• View of Nonnberg Abbey from the bus
• Salzburg Lake District Area – St. Gilgen
• Mondsee – Wedding Chapel
• Mirabell Garden & Pegasus Fountain

Tour details

Meeting point.

Panorama Tours Bus Terminal , Mirabellplatz / corner Hubert-Sattler-Gasse 1, 5020 Salzburg

Tour departs

Daily at 09:15 am and 2:00 pm (Jan – Dec)

Back at the meeting point

Live guide speaks

Tour operator.

Panorama Tours

Cancellation policy

24 hours  or more before start: full refund less 5% booking fees. After that time or no-show: no refund .

Accessibility

All ages welcome Children must be accompanied by an adult Suitable for people with limited mobility Wheelchair accessible

Professional live guide Transport and driver Vehicle with air condition

Food & Drink Entry fees

Things to bring

Appropriate clothing Comfortable shoes

Film series

Full description.

The enormous success of The Sound of Music Broadway Musical by Rodgers & Hammerstein premiering in 1959 made film director Robert Wise and 250 crew members turn Salzburg and its surroundings into the Sound of Music filming location in 1964. And we took the Sound of Music film crew to the various locations where the famous movie was filmed.

Shortly after its release, the film became a tremendous success, receiving five Academy Awards , becoming the highest grossing movie ever and reaching cult status over the years. Both musical and film are based on The Story of the Trapp Family Singers written by Maria von Trapp in 1949.

Follow the traces of the Trapp family and take a tour through Salzburg and its surroundings. See the original film settings and just imagine being Julie Andrews , the main character in the film, playing Maria von Trapp.

Learn about the historical and architectural landmarks of Salzburg as well as the Lake District while enjoying the highlights of the movie. Relax and listen to the Original Sound of Music soundtrack and of course feel free to sing-along Edelweiss and many more…

Our live guide will tell you everything you need to know about The Sound of Music, the Trapp Familiy, the film locations and about the shooting.

Locations (7)

1. meeting point: panorama tours bus terminal.

Meeting point: Panorama Tours Bus Terminal, Hubert-Sattler-Gasse 1, 5020 Salzburg

2. Leopoldskron Palace

The Palace at Leopoldskron is the most beautiful rococo building in the Salzburg region. It was built in 1731 by Archbishop Leopold Count Firmian as a residence for his family.

After 1837, when the Firmian family sold the estate, the building changed owners many times. Leopoldskron was a gallery, then became property of a landlord, and even the King of Bavaria can be found under the list of owners.

When famous writer Max Reinhardt, founder of the Salzburg Festival, bought it in 1918, it was in sad condition. Reinhardt renovated it, however, to its original beauty and used its garden for theater performances. Since 1958, the building has been owned by the “Salzburg Seminar in American Studies”, an institution that focuses on economy problems.

Schloss Leopoldskron was one of the most important locations for the film: The rear view was used for the Trap Family home . The family drank lemonade with the baroness on the terrace. Maria and the baron dance on the balcony during the ball scene, and the children fell into the adjacent lake. The Venetian room from the castle was copied and used as the ballroom for the interior shootings which were done in the studios.

3. Hellbrunn Palace

Hellbrunn Palace, just a few kilometers south of the city, was built between 1613 and 1619 under the orders of Markus Sittikus von Hohenems.

As the Archbishop had spent part of his life in Italy he tried to recreate an Italian atmosphere in this castle and its gardens. Unlike many other palaces, Hellbrunn has undergone no style changes and so, even today, the visitor can enjoy the lively southern scenery of this renaissance park.

The artificial water games in Hellbrunn with numerous grottoes, trick fountains and the mechanical toy theater were built to entertain the noble guests of Archbishop Markus Sittikus. The Impressive frescoes in the palace halls are masterpieces of the 17th century by Donato Mascagni From Florence.

The Gazebo at Hellbrunn

One of the main sites from the film is the glass gazebo, setting for various love scenes, like Sixteen Going on Seventeen and Something Good . After a complete renovation, it was reconstructed in the park of Hellbrunn Palace. This is not the original setting, which was the garden of Leopoldskron Palace, but a more accessible one for visitors.

4. View of Nonnberg Abbey from the bus

Nonnberg Convent is the oldest female convent north of the Alps. It has been in continual existence since it was founded in the year 714 A.D.

In the course of its history, the Abbey was destroyed by fire several times, but it was always rebuilt by the rulers of the city and the church. Today’s building was erected in the early 16th century. The wooden Gothic altar by the sculptor Veit Stoss is especially worth seeing . It is located in the St. John’s Chapel near the gate.

The Abbey on the Nonnberg is significant both for the real Trapp story as well as for the movie. After graduating from college, Maria Augusta von Kutschera took a train to Salzburg to present herself as a candidate for the novitiate of the Benedictine Sisterhood. After serving as a governess outside the abbey she and Baron von Trappmarried in the Abbey Church in 1927.

The Sound of Music scenes shot here include the opening part where nuns go to mass and Maria returns too late. The performance for the song “Maria” was staged in the courtyard of the Abbey. The children came to the Abbey’s gate to ask Maria to return to their home. The escape scene, with the cars parked outside the Abbey gate, was also shot in the original spot.

5. Salzburg Lake District Area – St. Gilgen

St. Gilgen is situated on another popular lake of the Salzkammergut, the Wolfgangsee . Mozart’s mother, Anna Pertl, was born here. That is why a little Mozart museum has been set up in the city center.

6. Mondsee – Wedding Chapel

A large cathedral dominates the small town of Mondsee. It was once the heart of an important monastery. Founded in 748 on the ruins of a roman settlement, it influenced the culture of the region for more than a thousand years until it was dissolved in 1792. The wedding scene in the movie was filmed here, Maria , led by Liesl , walked down the aisle to meet the baron in front of the main altar.

7. Mirabell Garden & Pegasus Fountain

Its characteristic, large, symmetrical flowerbeds make this garden a good example of a typical Baroque park.

It was built in the 18th century following the plans of the famous architect F ischer von Erlach . Countless statues inspired by Greek myths can be seen throughout the park which is centered by a big fountain. In the film, Maria and the children danced around the Fountain singing “Do-Re-Mi”.

The Pegasus fountain next to the 17th century palace can also be spotted in the movie. The stairs leading up to the rose hill were part of the choreography as well.

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• Private Tours

Sound of Music - Private Half-Day Tour

• Also included in Other products

Do you have special requirements? Make a request

English, German on request: Italian, French, Spanish

Visit the original film setting in Salzburg and its surroundings

See the picturesque World Heritage City of Salzburg as well as the beautiful landscapes where the opening scenes of the movie The Sound of Music were filmed!

The enormous success of The Sound of Music Broadway Musical by Rodgers & Hammerstein premiering in 1959 caused film director Robert Wise and 250 crew members to turn Salzburg and its surroundings into a Sound of Music film location in 1964. And it was Salzburg Panorama Tours taking the Sound of Music film crew to the various locations where the famous movie was filmed – so get all the inside stories and anecdotes first-hand !

Right after release, the film became a tremendous success, awarded with 5 Oscars becoming the highest grossing movie ever and reaching cult status over the years. Both, musical and film are based on the "The Story of the Trapp Family Singers" written by Maria von Trapp in 1949.

So follow the traces of the Trapp family and take a tour through Salzburg and its surroundings. Visit all of the original film settings and learn more about the historical and architectural landmarks of Salzburg as well as the Lake District.

Please notice:

You want an individual departure time or have questions concerning the program or bigger groups ? Then get in contact with Sarah Marie Herzl via e-mail [email protected] or telephone +43 662 / 88 32 11-23 .

We operate our tours either in a minivan (up to 8 passengers) or Mercedes limousine (up to 3 passengers) and are happy to arrange your private tour according to personal interests and individual needs .

Entrance fees, food & baverages are not included and must be paid onsite.

Stefan Herzl

Hello, my name is Stefan Herzl and I’m really looking forward to show you my beautiful hometown Salzburg. I am a native Salzburg offering since 1976 various sightseeing tours in Salzburg & surroundings.

This tour is also as regular tour available

Original Sound of Music Tour® - Tour 1A

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Fans agree: Salzburg is THE “Sound of Music” city! Not only did the real Trapp family once live here, this movie classic was also filmed in and around the city. Roam in the footsteps of Maria von Trapp and Julie Andrews!

The movie-worthy story of the von Trapps

What sounds like a modern fairy tale is actually a true story: that of Maria Kutschera. She moved in with the Trapps as the children’s governess and shortly afterwards married the widower father of the family. In the 1930s they founded a family choir, which, after their emigration to the United States in 1939, became an international success.

In 1965, the touching story of this singing family made it to the movies. Directed by Robert Wise, with Julie Andrews and Christopher Plummer in the starring roles, the movie brought the Trapp story to audiences around the globe. The fact that the film diverges from reality from time to time in no way affects its popularity. As the recipient of five Oscars, “The Sound of Music” is one of the most successful productions in cinematic history!

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The Sound of Music - The Film

Discover the original shooting locations.

Only a few Salzburgers have ever seen “My Songs – My Dreams” – which is the English translation of the German title – yet on the international stage, “The Sound of Music” enjoys a cult following! For the more than 300,000 visitors every year who make the pilgrimage to Salzburg because of the film, Mozart is just an added bonus. Rather, it is the movie shooting locations as well as the landmarks in the actual life of the Trapp family that take top billing. From Mirabell Gardens to the Felsenreitschule and Schloss Leopoldskron: Salzburg is practically teeming with “Sound of Music” locations.

Mirabell Palace & Garden

Summer Riding School

Leopoldskron Palace

The Sound of Music - Shooting Locations

Experience “the sound of music” in salzburg.

A “Sound of Music” museum is being planned for Salzburg. But until it opens its doors, there are countless other opportunities to immerse yourself in the movie. The “Sound of Salzburg Dinner Show” promises an entertaining evening: After a dinner accompanied by live music, guests are treated to a selection of the movie’s most famous hits. Do you love the scene where Maria and the children put on a puppet show with dancing marionettes?  If so, be sure to visit a “Sound of Music” performance at the Marionette Theater in Salzburg!

The Sound of Music Tour

Fräulein Maria's Bicycle Tour

The Sound of Music - Marionette Theatre

Musical - The Sound of Music

Other "sound of music" experiences, this might also interest you:.

Mozart in concert: daily concerts

Afternoon concerts of the enchanting music for piano and violin from W.A.Mozart.

Fortress Hohensalzburg

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Salzburg: Sound of Music Tour

Availability:

Can be played on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday

During these hours Whole day

Languages German, English

Visit a splendid Baroque garden, and many other authentic locations

Befriend some old wise dwarfs

Discover a fairytale Salzburg, with its hidden stories, old and new

Experience's route

Starting point mirabell gardens, finish point burgermeisterloch.

Places you will visit

It will take you

35 - 65 mins

You will walk

Total distance

Places to visit

You will discover interesting places along the route of the experience.

Karajan's House

Salzburger marionettentheater.

• Best during the day
• Kid friendly

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'The Sound of Music' was filmed in Salzburg 60 years ago. Locals say, so what?

Updated August 17, 2024 at 06:14 AM ET

SALZBURG, Austria — Dhananjay Raval first saw The Sound of Music , as a young child. This summer, he traveled from his hometown of Ahmedabad in western India with his own adult son to fulfill a lifelong dream of visiting the breathtaking sites where the film was shot six decades ago in Salzburg.

"Time is going on, 60 years, but the story and song is forever," he said, standing in front of the gazebo where Liesl and Rolf sing "Sixteen Going on Seventeen" in the musical drama. "This story I show [to] my children and grandchildren so they... know what is the value of family."

This city at the foot of the Alps is gearing up for major celebrations next year, marking six decades since the theatrical release of the story of a rebellious would-be nun who charmed a stern naval captain and his seven children.

A music special will feature new arrangements of the songs performed by stars like Baby Face, Pentatonix and Thalía. Von Trapp family members and other celebrities will mingle at a gala dinner. There will be seminars, flash mobs and Leopoldskron Palace — depicted as the Von Trapp home in the film — plans a "captain's ball." In town, a maker of traditional dirndl dresses will stage an exhibit on the film’s costumes.

Nearly 3 million people from around the world visit each year this city of just 160,000 residents. The Salzburg Festival and sites related to Mozart, who was born here, also rival for attention, with the city pulling in around a billion euros (a similar amount in dollars) per year from tourism, according to local government statistics.

The 60th anniversary of The Sound of Music 's theatrical release next year won't be song and dance for everyone. The special occasion could spell another peak in visitors for a city already grappling with overtourism.

The costs, and benefits, of overtourism

Raval is part of a Sound of Music pilgrimage of sorts that includes walking tours, bike tours and bus tours to visit sites like the Pegasus Fountain at Mirabell Gardens (site of the finale of the "Do-Re-Mi" song), Nonnberg Convent (where Julie Andrews' Maria was once a novice) and St. Gilgen, where Maria frolics through the hills in the opening scene. And palaces like Hellbrun and Leopoldskron evoke a bygone era. Panorama Tours , which once transported the film's stars and crew in 1964, now brings around 140,000 people to the sites each year.

But Sound of Music mania has not rubbed off on locals here. "We were not aware of the movie and of the impact it has to so many families until we actually were exposed to it and questioned by it through our tourists. And now it's become part of our DNA," said Christine Schoenhuber, CEO of Tourismus Salzburg GmbH CEO.

Visitors, she says, come from as far as Australia, South Korea, the Middle East, Mexico and of course the United States to take in the sights.

Salzburgers disconnected from the film

Despite the global appeal, many Salzburg locals haven't seen the film or feel little emotional connection to the story filled with uplifting plotlines and catchy Rodgers and Hammerstein tunes.

“I'm typical of the Salzburg people because I don't know anything about the film until I was an adult," said Peter Husty, chief curator and head of exhibitions at the Salzburg Museum.

For one, the venues are completely mixed up. What was made to seem one location, say the Von Trapp home, was in fact numerous ones.

Most views of the back of the home and the scene where Maria and the children fall out of a rowboat into the lake was filmed at the rococo Leopoldskron Palace . But the entrance was shot a couple miles away at a different palace, Frohnburg, built in the 17th century as the summer residence of Prince-Archbishop Max Gandolph. The actual Villa Trapp is in Aigen, on the outskirts of the city, and doesn't appear in the film. And all the interior scenes were actually shot on sets in Hollywood.

"The story was too romantic. It was tears cutting out of your eyes," Husty said. He notes that the real family managed to escape Austria thanks to their wealth and connections, while many others had no such choice during World War II. "And then all the other people in the film seemed to be Nazis. So a lot of small problems that were disgusting for the Salzburg people," Husty added.

Where are the Von Trapps now?

Husty has also been named chief curator of a new museum that Salzburg plans to open in 2026 dedicated to the film near the reconstructed gazebo where Liesl and Rolf and later Maria and the captain profess their love for each other. The structure is now located in the gardens of Hellbrunn Palace. A larger version was rebuilt in Hollywood for the interior shots.

"I want to tell on one side the success of the film where it is coming from, where is it going," said Peter Husty, who will serve as the new museum's curator. "And on the other side, I want to inform the visitors that the background of the Hollywood film is the story of a real family in Salzburg, and what have they really done and what was their life?”

Because before the film, there was the Broadway musical, the West German movie and the story of a real family first told by Maria von Trapp after she married Georg von Trapp. With so many iterations of the story, disentangling fact from fiction can be challenging. But one thing's for sure: the von Trapps' musical talents helped spare them the worst of the horrors of World War II.

Elisabeth von Trapp, the daughter of Werner von Trapp — depicted as "Kurt" in the film — plans to start next year her own walking tour that will focus on highlights of Salzburg, The Sound of Music and the von Trapp family.

"I think my relatives were very much about being creative and problem-solving... how to resonate together and harmonize. And when you do that not only musically but as a team building their new life — there's so many people that are being displaced around the world — it is a source of inspiration," she said.

Sitting at a café near the Mirabell Gardens after getting certified as a tour guide, she pondered her family's legacy.

"It just is, perchance, that my grandmother's story was chosen to come on Broadway," she said.

Of the initial Von Trapp children's generation, only Johannes, 85, still lives. He's one of three children born to Maria and Georg after their marriage, bringing the family total to 10 children.

Salzburg's cinematic beauty

Salzburg and its surroundings naturally lend themselves to cinematic grandeur, steeped as they are in tradition and alpine beauty.

Leopoldskron was commissioned as a family estate in the 18th century by the Prince Archbishop of Salzburg, Leopold von Firmian, whose heart was buried in the chapel of the palace he "loved so dearly," so reads an inscription there.

The site is so well preserved, that "the view that we have here is basically the same that the archbishop had in 1736 when he built this Schloss," or palace, said Martin Weiss, president and CEO of the Salzburg Global Seminar based at Leopoldskron. "You have a really stunning beauty untouched for hundreds of years."

Across the lake, the Untersberg Mountains are shrouded in fog. Hollywood fiction has the family fleeing the Nazis there. But that itinerary would have landed them in Hitler’s mountain retreat, the infamous Eagle’s Nest. The real Von Trapps knew their geography and initially left Austria for a concert tour. From Italy, they found their way to Vermont, where their Austrian-inspired lodge remains a major tourist attraction in the town of Stowe.

Leopoldskron, from archbishop's passion project to center of creativity

SGS, which Weiss describes as a "platform that brings people together," has called the palace home since 1947. Its previous owner, Jewish theater producer Max Reinhardt inspired The Sound of Music 's "Uncle Max." And the palace also served as the launching pad for the Salzburg Festival, which Reinhardt cofounded with writer Hugo von Hofmannsthal and composer Richard Strauss.

"It was really in this Schloss, in the Red Salon, where the three of them did their brainstorming and came up with this idea after this terrible devastation of World War One. Millions of people killed. Europe really at its knees," recalled Weiss, a Salzburg native and former Austrian ambassador to the U.S. "Their philosophy was, we have to bring people together. What language can we possibly use? Of course, the arts."

The Nazi government confiscated the palace in 1938 as “Jewish property.” Reinhardt was working in Hollywood at the time and never saw Leopoldskron again.

The Sound of Music, marionette version

Another art form also endures in Salzburg — marionettes. Anton Aicher founded the Marionette Theater here in 1913 and invented the "Salzburg cross" to manipulate the figurines, part of a technique that Austria's UNESCO commission has designated as an intangible cultural heritage. Everything is handmade, from the puppets to the costumes and sets.

The theater inspired the film’s “Lonely Goatherd” puppet scene, where Maria and the children put on a show for the captain, the baroness he had initially been due to marry and Uncle Max in the Venetian Ballroom.

Performances now include a Sound of Music -themed show, in both original and shortened versions, in a plush hall where cherubs fill frescoes decorating an ornate stucco ceiling.

"We can see it with all of our shows that from the child from three or four years on up to big, strong men, they are touched by the movement, the story and the ability, what is possible and shown on stage by the marionette," said general manager Susanne Tiefenbacher.

Backstage, around 600 hand-carved wooden puppets fill a room dubbed the "holy chamber." There are characters from productions of The Nutcracker, The Magic Flute, The Carnival of the Animals, Alice in Wonderland, The Tales of Hoffmann and of a new Romeo and Juliet production that will premiere at the theater's puppetry festival in October. Each show requires multiple versions of the same character, which means 30 to 90 puppets and nine to 11 puppeteers each time.

"The wood by itself is a dead piece of material. But through the art work and the empathic work of the puppeteers... with movements so delicate and so fine they move like human human beings, you will forget that it's puppets," said Tiefenbacher.

She pauses to reflect on why The Sound of Music still resonates, more than half a century since the film.

"There is the love, there is the family, collective singing and there is also the drama of the political background," she said. "And the political background, unfortunately, is coming up again. You can feel it worldwide and especially also in Europe that times are changing in a way, and to have to move your family from one place to another, forced by political circumstances."

Copyright 2024 NPR

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🌍 Be sure to attend our Study Abroad Fair, Thursday, September 19 from 12-4pm in Benson 401!

WFU/EuroTour (Summer Session I)

Program Information

Accommodation, scholarships, visa & passport.

Take WFU divisional classes while exploring some of the most famous cultural centers of the world. Wake Forest University’s EuroTour gives students the opportunity to explore eight cities in six countries over 30 days, all while receiving credit. The program in 2024 will be led by two Wake Forest faculty members:  Dr. Timothy Heath in the Department of Music and Wei-chin Lee in Politics and International Affairs.  Students enroll in one of the two courses being offered, each of which provides divisional credit and are specifically designed to take advantage of the European travel experience.  No prerequisite required for either course.

EuroTour is unique in that students choose how to spend their time and pursue cultural experiences independently, according to their own personal interests. Trip leaders provide orientation, guidance and daily help in achieving trip objectives. Art shows – and other events – will highlight each city’s rich contributions to culture.

This program, which visits 8 cities in 6 countries over summer session I, was first offered at Wake Forest in 1974. The EuroTour specializes in a comparative cross-country study of social, political, economic, and cultural aspects of each country. The tentative itinerary for summer 2025 includes visits to Venice, Salzburg, Vienna, Prague, Amsterdam, Paris and London. Majors in all disciplines are eligible to apply to the program.

Professor Timothy Heath from the Music department and Wei-chin Lee from Politics and International Affairs will be the Summer 2025 faculty directors. Professors will accompany students on the tour and oversee the program. In addition, they will each teach divisional courses from their respective disciplines. 

2025 Courses (Students may take one of the following) POL 114 Comparative Government and Politics An analysis of political institutions, processes, and policy issues in selected countries(CD) (D) or POL 242 Topics in Comparative Politics. Course may be retaken for credit if topic varies   MSC 100. Introduction to Western Music (D) or MSC 123 for MUS majors/minors Earn Divisional or major/minor credit while exploring some some Europe’s most beautiful and musically rich cities!  We will be listening to inspiring music by Bach, Beethoven, Brahms and many others, learning about what makes their compositions not just beautiful but culturally significant. Visits to museums, art galleries and instrument collections will allow us to understand the music in its wider cultural context.  No previous musical background is required.

Dr. Timothy Heath  Director of Athletic Bands Phone: (336) 758 3050 Email: [email protected]

Wei-chin Lee Professor, Politics and International Affairs Phone: (336) 758-5455 Email:  [email protected]

Students stay in rooms of 2-4 people in two or three-star hotels with breakfast and private bathrooms.

NOTE: All students participating in the WFU EuroTour program are required to live in program-provided housing. Housing accommodations you may have on campus do not automatically transfer to abroad and certain housing accommodations (single rooms and private bathrooms, for example) may not be available.

Tentative excursion list for both classes. More excursions and site visits may be included with the specific course. 

Venice Welcome Dinner at Ai Cugnai* Visit Ghetto and Rialto* Tour La Fenice opera house* Tour San Marco Basilica* Tour Scuola di San Rocco* Visit Casa Artom (WFU House)*   Salzburg Visit Mozart house museums* The Sound of Music Tour (how did the film create “Salzburg” as a tourist destination, framing the city for generations of visitors?*   Vienna Kunsthistorisches Museum (learning about a culture through objects)* Visit Flow House (WFU House)* Concert (to be determined)*   Prague Visit Prague Castle, Kafka House*   Amsterdam  TBA   Paris Visit Impressionist Art Museum* Visit Louvre* Visit Versailles* Visit Cathedral de Notre Dame*   London Visit Keats’s House in Hampstead* Visit Fenton House (Museum of Early Musical Instruments) for private concert* Visit National Gallery and National Portrait Gallery* Visit British Museum* Visit Tate Britain and Tate Modern* Attend a play as groundlings at Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre* Farewell Dinner at Lemonia*

• Good academic standing
• Demonstrated interest in subject matter

The total cost of summer study abroad can be broken down into four categories:

• Program Fee – Usually covers room, in-country travel, excursions, some group meals and other costs associated with the program.
• Tuition – Students on WFU summer programs pay WFU summer school tuition per credit hour. The current rate is $950/per credit hour. 
• Airfare (estimated) – Varies per location. Students are responsible for their own airfare unless otherwise noted.
• Personal Expenses (estimated) – These will vary depending on the students’ spending habits, cost of living in the destination country, and the number of meals included in the program fee. This may also include visa fees, vaccinations, academic supplies/books and other miscellaneous daily expenses.

Program Fee  – $7,221 Tuition (3hrs) – $2,850 Airfare (estimated) – $1,800 Personal Expenses (estimated) – $1,520 Estimated total cost – $13,391

Students are responsible for their own airfare. The program will start in Venice and finish in London

Scholarships are available through the Center for Global Programs and Studies

Passport Information Students need to check their passport’s expiration date and ensure that it will be valid for at least 6 months after the program’s end date.

Students going on a summer program need to make sure their passport is valid through at least mid-February of the following year.

US passport holders who need to renew their passport should visit the U.S. Department of State’s passport website for information on this process.

Non-US passport holders who need to renew their passport should refer to their home country’s passport office.

Visa Information If you are a US citizen, you most likely will not require a visa for your summer abroad program. If you do, details will be shared with you by GPS. Non-US passport holders should check with their host country’s embassy or consulate to find out if a visa is required for their program or not.

Dr. Timothy Heath  Director of Athletic Bands Phone: (336) 758 3050 Email:  [email protected]

Tyler Favale Study Abroad Advisor Center for Global Programs and Studies (336) 758 4072 [email protected]

Euro Tour Global Ambassador: Zophia Perez [email protected]

Program Dates

Additional details.

• Apply (WFU/EuroTour (Summer Session I))
• Advising (WFU/EuroTour (Summer Session I))
• Affiliate Program Homepage (WFU/EuroTour (Summer Session I))

Application Deadlines

Summer 2025.