Karina Weiser Lobao 26 Dec, 2024
Picturesque and romantic little villages, some of the best ski stations, traditional Christmas markets – it doesn’t matter who you are, Salzburg has something very special for you.
Recognised for the scenery in The Sound of Music, and known as Mozart’s city, Salzburg is located at the northern edge of the Alps, promising dramatic vistas of snow-covered peaks, the backdrop to such landmarks as the 11th century Fortress Hohensalzburg. For a fantastic viewing spot (my favourite!), drive to the Maria Plain, a pilgrimage church.
But for the best experience, keep aside at least two or three days to get lost walking through this UNESCO World Heritage Site, while sampling the local cuisine, and tasting some of the world’s best wines and beers.
Gastronomy
Wiener Schnitzel, Tafelspitz, Gulaschsuppe (Goulash Soup) – Austria boasts some very good (and delicious!) food, and you don’t need to go ‘fancy’ to find the best nosh. For dessert, make sure to have Kaiserschmarrn and a Salzburger Nockerl at least once.
Local experiences
Besides the food, there’s plenty else to savour in Salzburg. So, when planning your trip, make sure to include ice skating at Mozartplatz, a date at one of the oldest marionette theatres in the world, taking part in the Winterfest in Volksgarten, listening to a Mozart concert, and getting away from the city for a ski day.
Looking for a more relaxed approach? Visit one of the many thermal baths (‘thermes’) in or around Salzburg. Seeking a luxury experience with children included? Book a resort and enjoy a lavish family-friendly stay that only Austria can offer.
Day trips
Recommended for your bucket is a visit to the wedding church spotted in The Sound of Music, and outings to a glacier, salt mine, and the most beautiful village in the world. What if I tell you that you can combine all these dream-come-true experiences in just one day?
Indeed, these highlights can be found in Salzkammergut, a famous summer destination just a short drive away from Salzburg. All set to negotiate roads winding between pretty lakes and mountains?
Basilika St Michael: This is where Maria and Baron Georg van Trapp exchange vows in The Sound of Music. It is one of the loveliest churches in Austria, set right in the centre of Mondsee, a charming lake town with a lively cultural life and baroque houses.
Dachstein: The full ‘glacier experience’ encompasses going up in a cable car (for breathtaking panoramas from the 5 Fingers), crossing the suspension bridge, a giddy climb up the Stairway to Nothingness, time spent on the Sky Walk (a viewing platform), and a visit to the mysterious world of the Ice Palace.
Hallstatt: Here in the most beautiful village in the world, you can enjoy a walk, take photos by the lake, ascend stairs to visit the church, and delight in the great views. Then walk all the way back, go up the mountain in a funicular, and stop for more photos at Hallstatt Skywalk. Now, prepare for an amazing tour into the salt mine (including some fun slides!).
In the spirit of Christmas
From November 21 this year, you can explore the city while walking from one Christmas market to the next. Salzburg Cathedral, Fortress Hohensalzburg, and the 16th century Mirabell Palace are some of the locations worth stopping by, to try the local specialities and indulge in some Christmas shopping.
Just a half-hour away by public transport is Hellbrunn Palace, an absolute highlight, with a full program for the entire family, including concerts, carriage rides, a treasure hunt, petting zoo, and (for the brave ones) a parade of Krampus, who are half-human, half-goat demons. This alpine tradition has traumatised many children but has become a fascinating tourist attraction, and can be witnessed at the beginning of December around most Christmas markets (check online for dates and directions).
Salzburg has a secret that’s very well hidden, which is the ‘Silent Night Chapel’, a memorial chapel built in the place where the Christmas carol ‘Silent Night’(‘Stille Nacht’ in German) was first performed. Located in Oberndorf bei Salzburg, it can be reached in 30 minutes by car, or public transport.
If you want to explore a bit more, walk along the Salzach river, cross the border into Germany, visit the village of Laufen, and cross the next bridge back into Austria.
Feeling cold? I recommend a Glühwein (Mulled Wine), or a Kinderpunsch for an alcohol-free option. Christmas cookies, chestnuts, raclette and many other delicacies can transform your day of sightseeing into a gastronomic excursion.
Ringing in the New Year
The Christmas market around the cathedral and Residenzplatz is open until January 1, and extended to the Kapitelplatz. There are live bands performing, and at midnight you can hear the bells from Salzburg Dom and see the fireworks at the Fortress.
A traditionally Austrian way of celebrating New Year’s Eve is by attending the New Year’s Concert. I highly recommend you book tickets in advance. But it doesn’t need to be a fancy or expensive night – do look out for the local brass bands!
Besides, on January 5 every year, you can witness another Alpine tradition. The Glöcklerlauf, a parade that runs through the streets of the old city, is supposed to light up the dark, send away the bad spirits, and bring good energy into the New Year.
Alpine and local music, and waitresses wearing dirndl, are part of the cultural life that you’ll breathe wherever you go. The smaller the village, the more traditional the way of living – and the harder it is to understand the dialects!
Truly, Austria is one of the most beautiful and traditional countries I have seen. Locals are very proud of its tap water, white wine, and coins. Which reminds me: always keep some cash handy, for many places accept only notes!
Ready to discover Salzburg’s winter magic and festive charm, and create a host of memories to treasure? Check out some more tips on @yourtraveltranslator_official!
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