24 Hours Bliss in Salzburg

 Thanks to C job, last August we took on a plane for a 24 hours trip to Salzburg. Coming from the north of Italy, I had previously explored various mountain locations in Austria, primarily for skiing (or pretending to do so), and Salzburg for the Christmas market, but I don't have much recollection of it, so felt like a new destination.

Salzburg is a small gem steeped in history, remarkably walkable and full of historical significance. You will walk the city crossing the Salzach River against the stunning backdrop of the Alps which I found really beautiful.

We opted to stay at the Wyndham Grand due to its location, but I would hesitate to recommend it. The hotel was not particularly clean, and it exhibited signs of wear, begging for a thorough renovation.

Unforgettable Sights in Salzburg

Despite the short timeframe, we managed to cover some must-see attractions and dreamt of exploring more with additional time:

1. The Old Town: Wander around the major squares near the cathedral, especially the charming Alter Markt. Don't miss the chance to relax at the historic Cafe Tomaselli.

2. Mozartplatz: Pay homage to Mozart with a visit to his statue and, if time permits, explore his birthplace, which houses a small museum.

3. Mirabell Palace Gardens: My favourite. Take a leisurely coffee break amidst the enchanting gardens of Mirabell Palace.

4. St. Peter’s Cemetery & Abbey: Embrace the eerie charm of a walk through history. If time allows, venture into St. Peter’s Catacombs for an added historical experience.

5. Salzach River Walk: Enjoy a refreshing stroll along the Salzach River, offering picturesque views.

6. Hohensalzburg Fortress: Despite the climb, the fortress rewards with a 360-degree panoramic view of the city and its surroundings.

Regrettably, we missed a few noteworthy sites, such as the Salzburg Cathedral and Hellbrunn Palace & Trick Fountains, but they come highly recommended by others.

For those seeking culinary respite, here are a couple of recommendations:

Cafe Tomaselli: More for the ambiance than the coffee itself.

220 grad: A worthy stop for a refreshment.

Sternbrau: Ideal for a hearty lunch or dinner, despite potential wait times. Avoid tourist traps with exaggerated claims, like places advertising the biggest schnitzel.

If you have a sweet tooth, get some Mozartkugel—sweet balls made with pistachio and marzipan, and don't forget to bring some home.

In conclusion, I know I would go back to Salzburg any day. This charming city serves as an excellent starting point for exploring the surrounding areas, making it a definite recommendation for fellow travelers..