Things to do in Salzburg
A jewel set in mountainous Austria, Salzburg had its start due to its valuable natural resource: salt. The long-running mining operations were soon overlaid with the elegance of culture—particularly music. In the city of Mozart, be sure to experience:
Top 7 Things to do in Salzburg:
1. Festung Hohensalzburg
This is the fortress of powerful archbishop rulers, and building started on the site before 1100 a.d. It sits on the Monchsberg, and its hilltop perch makes it visible from most locations in Salzburg.
2. Mozart’s Wohnhaus
The residence of the city’s celebrated son is now a museum, and audio tours are available. This is where Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart lived until his 1890 move to Vienna. The information offered at the museum has a depth that sometimes eludes mindful travelers.
3. St. Peter’s Church and Cemetery (Petersfriedhof)
It is said that this plot has been a burial ground for about 1700 years. The church is small, compared to the houses of worship that Europe has to offer, but richly opulent and full of Baroque treasures. The crowded, charming cemetery shelters departed Salzburg nobles.
4. Salzburg Festival
This annual event is the largest of its kind in Europe. Travelers must purchase tickets well in advance to gain entrance to the various venues and performances. The Festival lasts for five weeks in July and August.
5. Mirabellgarten
These vast gardens offer walks, fountains, and a palace containing works of art. Admission is free; and walking in the “rooms” of the garden offer a relaxing change of pace from other sightseeing.
6. Werfen Ice Caves
Tours are offered of this natural wonder, first uncovered in the 1800s. Take a train ride from Salzburg, and a cable car up to the scrupulously-preserved caves.
7. Hellbrun Palace
The power vested in the archbishops of Salzburg allowed Markus Sittikus to indulge every whim and eccentricity. Hellbrun Palace contains a park and a retreat, alongside the Palace proper. The main draws here are the trick fountains.
Despite a tendency to sell Mozart to the visitor which sometimes verges on campiness, Salzburg is a city of great elegance. A beautiful natural setting, combined with a rich cultural history, make this city a joy for travelers.