Leopoldskron Palace

The Leopoldskron Palace (Schloss Leopoldskron) was made famous by the movie The Sound of Music and remains an iconic boutique hotel.

Built by Leopold Anton Freiherr von Firmian in 1736, Leopoldskron Palace was originally a family residence. It changed hands frequently during the 19th century, with King Louis I of Bavaria being the most famous owner. When actor-director Max Reinhardt purchased it in 1918, his ambition was to restore it to its earliest splendour. Today, the rococo palace is privately owned. It serves as a special events venue and one of Salzburg’s most elegant hotels.

Leopoldskron Palace is not open to the public. To really appreciate its grandeur, if your budget allows, spend a night in one of the 12 suites, each impeccably furnished with antiques. The adjoining Meierhof has an additional 55 rooms. You can dine like an archbishop in the Marble Hall and Venetian Room, and sit by the fire in the Great Hall. The Max Reinhardt suite has a special detail: a secret passage that leads to the library.

The Leopoldskron Palace holds the honour of being the birthplace of the Salzburg Festival in 1920. Years later, in 1965, the Venetian Room was the backdrop for The Sound of Music. The palace looks onto a placid lake, Leopoldskroner Weiher, which was the setting for one of the most famous scenes from the movie. If you're there in winter, enjoy spectacular views of the frozen water and surrounding landscape.

While staying at the palace is expensive, it’s free to wander around Leopoldskroner Weiher. As you walk, you’ll see fabulous photo-worthy views of the palace, as well as the mountains. Note that this is a crowded site, as it’s a popular stop on The Sound of Music tours.

Leopoldskron Palace is a 10-minute drive from Salzburg’s Old Town. From Mozart Square it’s a 25-minute walk follow the road around the back of Festung Hohensalzburg. Alternatively, public buses from the city centre stop on Firmianstrasse.