Mönchsberg 34, 5020 Salzburg, Austria
Getreidegasse 9, 5020 Salzburg, Austria
Nestled against the stunning backdrop of the Austrian Alps, Salzburg is a city that resonates with history, culture, and natural beauty. Steeped in a rich heritage, this charming destination offers a plethora of attractions that captivate visitors from around the world. From its awe-inspiring cathedral to the echoes of Mozart’s melodies, and the medieval charm of the old town, Salzburg is a place where time seems to stand still.
I started my day from Munich and took the direct train from Munich to Salzburg (RE 5) which starts from platform 9. It takes approximately 2 hours to reach Salzburg.
Do get a Salzburg Card. It includes free entry to most of the attractions and also doubles as a transport pass
As you walk through the town, you will see a flock of tourists and locals in the famous shopping street – Getreidegasse. The street is lined with shops and buildings carved with iron guild signs. The street is known as the birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart at No. 9, where he lived until the age of 17.
Salzburg Cathedral
A Divine Marvel At the heart of Salzburg’s old town stands the magnificent Salzburg Cathedral. This masterpiece of Baroque architecture commands attention with its imposing façade, adorned with intricate statues and artwork. The interior is equally captivating, with its soaring domed ceilings, intricate frescoes, and ornate chapels. The cathedral’s history dates back to the 17th century, making it a symbol of the city’s religious and cultural heritage.
Salzburg Cathedral is located adjacent to Residenzplatz and Domplatz in the Altstadt (Old Town) area of the city.
The great Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was baptized here.
Mozart’s Birthplace and Residence: A Musical Pilgrimage
No visit to Salzburg would be complete without delving into the life of its most famous son, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart.
It is the first stop one would encounter if you walk from the main station.
The Mozart Residence and Birthplace are essential stops on this musical journey. The former residence showcases original instruments, manuscripts, and personal artefacts of the composer, providing a glimpse into his genius. The birthplace, now a museum, sheds light on Mozart’s early life and the family’s daily existence.
Mozart’s Violin and piano are on display here at the museum.
UNESCO World Heritage old town
Stepping into Salzburg’s Old Town is like journeying through a time machine to medieval Europe. Cobbled streets wind their way through charming squares, lined with pastel-coloured buildings adorned with intricate wrought-iron signs. The Old Market Square is a hub of activity, offering artisanal goods, local produce, and a vibrant atmosphere that captures the spirit of the city. Do try the Salzburg pretzel 🥨 which is double the size of normal pretzels.
St. Peter’s Cemetery: A Peaceful Oasis of Tranquility
Within the heart of the Old Town lies St. Peter’s Cemetery, a serene oasis steeped in history. St. Peter’s Abbey is the oldest existing monastery of the Austrian Benedictine Congregation and in the German-speaking world in general. The cemetery’s graves are adorned with intricate ironwork, flowers, and epitaphs that reveal stories of generations past. Adjacent to the cemetery is St. Peter’s Church, a marvel of rococo architecture that boasts an impressive interior featuring marble altars, frescoes, and gilded decorations.
The cemetery grounds are known for its ‘catacombs’ carved out of the conglomerate rocks of Festungsberg hill.
Fortress Hohensalzburg: A Majestic Overlook of the City
The fortress is the highest point in the town and can be seen from everywhere.
Perched atop the Mönchsberg mountain, Fortress Hohensalzburg offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the city and the surrounding landscapes. The fortress is a testament to Salzburg’s medieval past, with its imposing walls, towers, and defensive architecture. A hike to the fortress is a must for adventure enthusiasts, providing not only historical insights but also a chance to immerse oneself in the natural beauty of the region.
Those who are not interested in hiking can opt for the cable car. There are two hiking 🥾 routes, one a winding road providing picturesque points of surrounding mountains 🌄 and the Residenz Platz. Another is a series of steps through the town to the castle.
The Castle tower offers a great panoramic view of Salzburg and the Salzach river.
Salzburg delicacies: Mozart Kugeln and Bosna
After a long hike and exploring the old town of Salzburg, it is time to give the taste buds some new experience. Salzburg is famous for its Mozart Kugeln, a round sugar confectionery made of marzipan or Nougat covered with chocolate. It was made by Paul Fürst who has a statue dedicated to him above a large golden ball in Residenz Platz.
The shop is called Cafe-Konditorei Fürst and is located in Beodgasse but you can also get it in a compact shop at their branch in Ritzerbogen, Sigmund-Haffner-Gasse,
Next was a fast-food dish from Salzburg called Bosna. I encountered this by luck while walking through the alleys. I saw a long queue of people waiting and wanted to check out and came across a small vendor selling Bosna- resembling a hot dog 🌭 consisting mainly of Bratwurst, onions, blend of Mustard and Tomato ketchup and curry powder. Now there are many variants to it.
This small vendor called Balkan Grill Walter is located at Getreidegasse 33 and attracts a huge following. Be patient as it takes some time to lay hands on one 😅 and only cash is accepted. The original Bosna costs 5€ and it tastes great while eaten hot.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a day trip to Salzburg is an unforgettable experience that combines history, culture, and natural beauty in a perfect blend. This enchanting Austrian city has the power to transport you back in time with its charming Old Town, medieval architecture, and cobblestone streets. As you wander through the birthplace of Mozart, you’ll find yourself immersed in a world of classical music and artistic inspiration.
The culinary delights of Salzburg are another highlight not to be missed. Whether you’re savouring traditional Austrian dishes in cosy cafes or indulging in delectable pastries from local bakeries, the city’s food scene is a treat for the senses.
While a single day may only offer a glimpse into the multifaceted beauty of Salzburg, it’s enough to ignite a desire to return and explore more deeply.