For a city like Salzburg, Austria, a weekend is certainly not enough for any visitor to fully appreciate its majestic and breathtaking gardens. It has a reputation for beauty and refinement that makes it one of the most sought after tourist destinations in Central Europe. Exploring the city on foot is not too difficult because of its compact layout. The variety of landmarks and buildings also gives it a fairytale-like atmosphere and makes it such a pleasure to explore by walking.
But with all this variety, how much ground can anyone cover if only given a weekend to make the most of what Salzburg, Austria has to offer? Consider these suggested destinations:
• A trek to the historic Hohensalzburg Fortress is a must for any traveler visiting the city for the first time. After all, it is a major landmark that defines the city’s skyline. Within the vicinity of the fortress are a museum and the stateroom that visitors can tour. The city also features a uniquely built area of the Saint Peter’s district that features catacombs, a cemetery, a church and a monastery that were carved out of the Moncshberg Mountains. Those with a passion for classical music can drop by Gertreidegasse, which is world famous for a well-preserved house where musician Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was born. To complete a highly cultural first day in the city, visiting more recent repositories of local culture is recommended. The Toy Museum, Museum of Modern Art and the Panorama Gallery are among the best representatives of the city’s more modern artistic movements.
• Admiring the city’s natural wonders is a perfect counterpoint to the explorations of the previous day. Drop by the Mirabell Gardens and relax by its iconic Pegasus Fountain made famous by the film “The Sound of Music.” An afternoon spent walking within the natural wonders of Salzburg Zoo should round up the day’s nature-themed tour of the city followed by a scenic view of the area’s skyline aboard a cable car going up the Untersberg Mountain.
Whether for its buildings or for its natural treasures, first time visitors to Salzburg, Austria can go home made richer by the city’s attractions that can be explored in a single weekend.