Salzburg

Salzburg stems from German nouns meaning “SaltCastle” tracing back to its role in the precious salt trade down the Salzach River. The well preserved baroque architecture of Old Town, Altstadt, is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

At peak times, worldwide tourists outnumber locals. Two musical and historical pilgrimages comprise most tourism: Mozart aficionados and “The Sound of Music” lovers.

Salzburg’s favorite son, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, one of classical music’s most beloved composers, left a 600 composition legacy. Enjoy extensive Mozart-related tourism http://www.salzburg.info/en/art_culture/wolfgang_amadeus_mozartincluding home tours, the International Mozarteum museum, plus many Mozart concerts.

Many repeat visitors enjoy “The Sound of Music” tours each time. Von Trapp family and movie adaptation venues include Mondsee Cathedral, the Lake District, Mirabell and the abbey. Insiders suggest this be your first Salzburg tour, and recommend bringing your unabashed singing voice for lighthearted “Do Re Mi” and Edelwiess” renditions.

The Salzburg Festival http://www.salzburgerfestspiele.at/ offers July-August opera, drama and concerts, heavily featuring Mozart, Haydn, Beethoven and Strauss.

Mirabell Palace is known for its sculpture collection, rose garden, Raffael Donner stairs and especially Marble Hall, likely the planet’s most beautiful wedding venue. Many weddings are held there, but English language nuptials are limited to Tuesday and Fridays.

For unusual evening entertainment, visit Salzburger Marionettentheater, where you might forget the actors are actually puppets. Bad Reichenhall Salt Works http://www.alte-saline-bad-reichenhall.de/ in the nearby spa town, are a worthy diversion.

For a change of pace from walking and bus tours, try bicycle, rickshaw, segway and hackney tour vehicles.