When planning our Germany trip, we couldn’t resist making a detour to Salzburg, Austria. Known for its magical Christmas atmosphere and breathtaking views of the Alps, Salzburg was the perfect place to begin our holiday journey. Just a quick 2-hour train ride from Munich, it was an easy yet unforgettable addition to our itinerary.
Keep reading to discover my highlights and see why Salzburg is a must-visit destination for a festive getaway!
Christmas Markets – Domplatz and Residenplatz
The two largest Christmas markets in Salzburg are conveniently located in the city center, right next to each other at Domplatz and Residenzplatz.
These bustling markets are filled with rows of vendors selling everything from holiday ornaments and Christmas décor to cozy clothing like hats and gloves, foodie gifts, and unique trinkets. We honestly thought Salzburg had one of the best Christmas markets of our entire trip!
Motzart Dinner
Salzburg is synonymous with Mozart, and one of the highlights of the city is the chance to experience a Mozart Dinner Concert. While in Salzburg, you can visit the Mozart Birthplace Museum and Residence to dive deeper into his life and legacy. But the Mozart Dinner offers a truly special experience, where you can enjoy a 3-course meal while listening to talented musicians and opera singers perform his timeless works. The dinner is held in a beautiful venue, making it an unforgettable night!
Hohensalzburg Fortress
Perched high above the city is the magnificent Hohensalzburg Fortress, the city’s iconic landmark and the largest fully preserved castle in Central Europe. Allow at least two hours to explore its fascinating museums, and don’t miss the panoramic views from the top. You can take the funicular to reach the fortress, which makes the climb a breeze!
TIP: Get the Salzburg Card for free entry to major attractions and unlimited access to public transportation. It's a great way to save money and make the most of your visit!
Cable Car Untersberg
For breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, take the cable car up Untersberg, accessible with the Salzburg Card. A short 30-minute bus ride outside the city, it was one of the highlights of our time in Salzburg. The stunning mountain scenery made it well worth the trip!
Medieval Charm on Steingasse
Steingasse, meaning "Stone Alley" in English, is a historic cobblestone lane tucked away in a quieter part of Salzburg, just across the river. While it doesn’t have many shops or tourist attractions, it’s a peaceful spot to explore and one of the city’s oldest streets.
Our Hotel – Arthotel Blaue Gans
I absolutely loved our stay at Arthotel Blaue Gans and highly recommend it for its cozy atmosphere and prime location. Known as "Blue Goose" in English, this hotel blends modern comfort with a historic charm, as it’s one of the oldest inns in Salzburg. Situated just a short walk from both the Christmas markets and Mozart’s birthplace, it’s the ideal base for exploring the city.
Thanks for reading!
- The Maine Chick
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