Updated in 2026, originally published in December 2017
You won’t be able to get the soundtrack out of your head.
The Sound of Music has been a fan favorite in the movie realm for more than 50 years. Between the beautiful Austrian scenery, the catchy musical numbers, and lovable characters, there is something so heartwarming and fun about the movie. If you end up traveling to Salzburg, Austria (where the movie was filmed), make sure to take a day to experience the Original Sound of Music Tour by Panorama Tours. It will bring you right back to the first time you watched it, and you won’t be able to get the soundtrack out of your head at the end of the day. Below is a quick breakdown of the tour so you can plan your day accordingly.
The Basics
The tour is 4 hours long so they only have two tour times a day, one at 9:15am and one at 2:00pm. We recommend doing the one earlier in the day if possible.
The tour bus that takes you on the tour doesn’t pick you up wherever you’re staying, so they recommend getting to the designated meeting spot 15 min before departure. They won’t wait for latecomers so make sure you’re on time! Below is the general meeting spot address.
Panorama Tours Bus Terminal
Mirabellplatz / corner Hubert-Sattler-Gasse 1
5020 Salzburg
The tour bus blasts the Sound of Music soundtrack the whole time you’re traveling, so be prepared to sing along with the guide.
Now onto the tour route…
The Route
Get ready to follow in the footsteps of Maria and the Von Trapp family as you visit the original film settings, while learning about the history and architecture of Salzburg and the movie landmarks.
Mirabell Gardens
This is where the song “Do-Re-Mi” was filmed and the setting is SO beautiful. The gardens are part of the larger Mirabell Palace complex, which is one of the most beautiful palaces in the world. The expansive and colorful garden is home to a gorgeous fountain named the Pegasus Fountain which you see Maria and the children dancing around during the song, and at the end you see them standing on the steps in front of the Rose Hill, now aptly named “the do-re-mi steps.”
Leopoldskron Palace and Lake
This is just one of the many spectacular views you’ll enjoy on this tour. You’ll be stopping at Lake Leopoldskron for a photo op across from the Leopoldskron Palace, which is the set of the Captain’s backyard and gardens. It’s also where the famous boating scene was filmed in the movie. You won’t be visiting the palace itself as entrance to the complex is restricted solely to invited guests and customers of the house.
Hellbrunn Palace and Gazebo
YIn the gardens of Hellbrunn Palace lies the infamous gazebo where the “16 going on 17” song scene, as well as the kissing scene of Maria and Baron von Trapp was filmed. A few other parts of the movie were filmed here as well, and the dirt road that Julie Andrews sings “I have Confidence” is a great place for a photo shoot.
Nonnberg Abbey
On your way out of Salzburg you’ll pass by the Nonnberg Abbey, the convent where the “real life” Maria was before she was sent to be the governess of the von Trapp family. Today it is still an active convent and therefore does not allow visits within its walls. If you really want to get closer, you are able to walk up to the front gate of their Gothic Church or visit a church service when they are held (before or after the tour of course).
Salzburg Lake District and St. Gilgen
After visiting the in-town tour locations, you’ll drive to the Salzburg Lake District, which has probably the best view of the tour. You’ll pass along Lake Fuschl, where panorama shots and some picnic scenes were filmed. At the photo stop you’ll enjoy a spectacular view down on the town of St. Gilden and Lake Wolfgang. It’s said that this is the most beautiful spot in the entire region.
Mondsee and the Wedding Chapel
In the town of Mondsee you’ll see the beautiful and famous church where the wedding of Maria and Baron von Trapp was filmed. Afterwards there will be time to explore the small town on your own. It’s highly recommended that you head over to Cafe Konditorei Braun, which has an amazing apple strudel that will have you singing “My Favorite Things” all the way back to Salzburg.
And there you have it folks, a quick run-down of a definite must-do tour if you’re in Salzburg. For bookings and more info check out their website.
