Hohenwerfen Castle is a 950-year-old medieval fortress perched on a 155-metre rocky spur above the Salzach Valley in the village of Werfen, about 40 km south of Salzburg. It was built around 1077 by Archbishop Gebhard of Salzburg as a defensive stronghold and, together with its sister fortress Hohensalzburg, has watched over the region ever since. Today it is best known as an 'adventure castle' housing the Austrian Falconry Museum and staging daily birds-of-prey flight demonstrations, and in 2026 it operates from early April to early November. With eagles, falcons and owls soaring against an Alpine backdrop plus armoury and torture-chamber exhibits, it makes an excellent family outing.
Birds-of-prey flight demonstration (Greifvogelschau) — falconers in medieval dress fly eagles, falcons and owls over the Lindenwiese meadow below the castle, about 25 minutes and included in admission
Austrian Falconry Museum, tracing the history and tools of falconry, a UNESCO intangible cultural heritage
Panoramic views of the Salzach Valley and Tennengebirge from the ramparts and belfry
Guided interior tour (about 50 min) through the armoury, torture chamber and 'The Uprising' exhibition on the 1525-1526 Peasants' War
Cinematic setting used in the 1968 film 'Where Eagles Dare' and near the meadows featured in 'The Sound of Music'
Good to know
SeasonThe castle closes in winter. In 2026 it opens April 1 to November 2, with Mondays closed in April, October and November (open on public holidays). Always confirm current opening dates on the official website before travelling.
RulesAdmission prices, opening hours and tour times change by season, so the latest details must be checked. Plan your arrival around the guided interior tour and the falconry demonstration times.
SafetyThe fortress sits atop a 155 m rock; walking up takes 15-20 minutes on an uphill path. If you have knee trouble or travel with children or a stroller, use the paid funicular (an inclined lift). Interiors and ramparts have many stone floors and steps, so wear sturdy non-slip shoes.
MannersDuring the falconry show stay within the marked spectator area and avoid loud noises, sudden movements and flash so as not to startle the birds. Drones are prohibited; dogs on a lead are welcome outdoors but not on interior tours.
SeasonIn this Alpine terrain mornings and evenings can be chilly even in summer, and shows may be shortened or cancelled in rain. Bring a light jacket and rain protection.
CautionBuy the all-inclusive ticket (castle, falconry, museum) at the box office or official channels, and pre-book online in peak season to skip queues. Avoid unofficial resellers advertising steep 'discounts'.
Practical info
From Werfen railway station it is about 1.6 km to the castle entrance, reachable by shuttle (book roughly an hour ahead), on foot, or by car. From the car park at the foot of the hill you reach the castle by funicular (about 5 min) or on foot (15-20 min); it is generally open May-September 09:00-17:00 (extended in high summer, shorter in April/October/November). The all-inclusive ticket covers the castle tour, falconry show and museum, but prices, times and shuttle service must be confirmed on the official website for the latest information.
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