Two things come to my mind when I think about Salzburg- the Sound of Music and Mozart! I had a day in this gorgeous little town to explore and made sure to see the site relevant to both of these! I also had my first real taste of the local cuisine at Braurestaurant Imlauer – including Schnitzel.

When I arrived, although a bit rainy, we were determined to hit all of the highlights – starting with Mirabel Gardens. For those fans, you probably remember Maria and the Von Trapp children sing “Do, Re, Mi” while dancing, running and skipping around Mirabell Gardens. You’ll recognize the gnome garden and of course, the Pegasus fountain that they leap off of, before finishing the song on the musical steps.

Just across the bridge into the old town of Salzburg, you’ll find a bright yellow rowhouse that is identified as Mozart Geburtshaus (Mozart’s Birthplace). The museum allows you to take a tour through original rooms, see original certificates, letters and memorabilia document Mozart’s life in Salzburg and a collection of portraits, mostly done during Mozart’s lifetime. Perhaps most interesting, the museum also includes Mozart’s own violin and clavichord.

While walking around the historic streets, you see another great example of European christmas with lights hanging across nearly every thoroughfare.

Also beautiful lit, was the Hohensalzburg Fortress on the top of Festungsberg, a small hill just outside of the main downtown of Salzburg. Erected by the Prince-Archbishops of Salzburg, it is one of the largest medieval castles in Europe.

In addition to Sound of Music and Mozart, I’ll definitely be adding “Christkindlmarkt” to my reference list for Salzburg. This is one of the oldest advent markets in Europe, with roots dating back to the 1500s. It was another fabulous experience tasting the local food, having a mulled wine, and listening to the carolers on the steps of the Salzburg Cathedral!

Next stop, Munich!

-MAL

Hotel:

• Hotel Imlauer Salzburg – very nice with an incredible restaurant connected. 8 minute walk to the train station and a 10 minute walk to city center

Restaurants:

• Christmas Market Food
• Hotel IMLAUER & Bräu Salzburg – delicious and authentic Austrian food

Sites:

• Christmas Market
• Mozart Geburtshaus
• City Center/Shopping Area
• Hohensalzburg Fortress
• Sound of Music sites- Mirabel Gardens
• Salzburg Cathedral