When traveling throughout Europe, I try taking in as many cities as possible and sneak in a few day trips here and there. My favorite day trip was to Salzburg, Austria. Salzburg is known as the home of Mozart, lots of LOVE, fortresses, rivers, and of course… The Sound of Music. I loved Salzburg and wish I had spent more time there. Until then, here’s a short list of things you must do when you take a quick day trip to Salzberg.
The best way to get around Salzberg is by foot. Arriving by train from Munich, it was easy to get into “Old Town” and walk the Getreidegasse. This is in the heart of old town and where you can find unique and traditional shopping, restaurants, and hotels. Walking through the heart of the city, it’s hard not to sing clips from one of my favorite childhood movies, the Sound of Music. The hills around Getreidegasse are really alive. This small town is actually filled with so much to do. If you don’t have a lot of time, don’t fret, you can still have a wonderful experience in just one quick visit.
What to see on a quick day trip in Salzburg…
Shopping
Some of my favorite shops along the Getreidegasse were the Christmas shops and the Dirndl (traditional female dresses) shops. I am still kicking myself for not buying my daughters dresses. I did manage to bring home a few ornaments from the Christmas in Salzburg store. Just know there are millions of these handcrafted egg ornaments. You can spend hours in there trying to find your perfect egg.
Food
One of the best meals I have ever had was in Salzberg, just a few steps away from Mozarts Geburtshaus. Enjoy outdoor seating in a beautiful courtyard at Sternbrau. Not only was the atmosphere amazing, but the food was also delicious. Lunch was a hearty meal that would get me through the rest of the day, and it didn’t disappint. An added benefit? Their restrooms will entertain you for the few minutes you need to use them. I might have spent way too much time in there… silly American.
Mozart Geburtshaus
A quick walk around the corner will take you to Eisgrotte ice cream. I think this was my favorite part of the day as it takes you to the center of Old Town. You’ll know you’re in the right place when you see the crowd standing around Mozarts Geburtshaus. This is house Mozart was born in and is now a museum filled with memorabilia and family letters. It’s in the center of the town and is a music lovers dream.
Love Lock Bridge
After my heavy lunch and ice cream treat, I knew I needed to walk back to the train station. The walk is about thirty minutes, but it will take you over the Love Locks Bridge. Such a sweet walk as you can read the locks along your walk across the bridge. This is a fairly new trend in Europe, but the Love Lock Bridge seems to be where it all started. Sadly, I didn’t bring a lock to declare my love…
Hohensalzurg Fortress
Although I didn’t make it to the top, I did have a spectacular view of the fortress from down below. The fortress is full of medieval weapons and torture instruments, who doesn’t want to see that, right? This is something that I would love to come back to tour one day because the views from the top have got to be incredible. Salzburg is surrounded by rolling hills and of course… the Alps.
If you plan on being in Bavaria or the Alps, take a day trip to Salzburg. It’s such a beautiful city and one of the oldest cities in Europe to survive during wartime. Well worth a visit of any length.
Cam is a work-from-home mother of two, wife, blogger, amateur photographer and co-founder of GreaterInk.com. She’s a former flight attendant and loves traveling the world with her family. She’s loves all things Disney, desserts, and is living the dream in San Diego, California.
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