A few tips for visiting for the Festung…
Come early, before the sun gets high in the sky and visitor numbers bloat to epic proportion. You can reach the fortress by the funicular railway or a walk from the city center off the Festungsgasse.
Kids will enjoy Wolf Dietrich’s appearance in the Marionette Museum and the ghoulish displays in the torture chamber; adults can investigate the 3 museums, marvel over the mechanics of the Reißzug, or relax under the stars in the Golden Hall. For the most impressive views, climb the steps of the Reckturm.
During peak tourism periods, the Festung plays host to a series of classical music concerts.
Count the Turnips: The Festung was buffed of its rougher edges under the reign of Prince Archbishop Leonhard von Keutschach (1495-1519). He pumped the profits from his salt mines into renovating and enlarging the fortress. You’ll find signs of the turnip/beetroot – a symbol of his coat of arms – in 58 places around the fortress. Don’t miss the one on the giant ceramic stove near the Golden Chamber.