A tour to Salzburg is a rich reward for any traveler.  In this blog post, The Professor tells the traveler why a trip to Salzburg will not disappoint. 

Salzburg is easy to get to by train from Munich, Vienna, and even Italy.  The town is easily walkable and there are some outside excursions to enjoy too.  It is a 4-season city with the winter Christmas markets open for all the enjoy and lots of activities and things to do the rest of the year.

It's the City of Music:  Mozart was born and lived here and there are many events surrounding classical music.  The famous "Sound of Music" was filmed here and many of the sites from the film can be visited. Although it sounds a bit corny, all of The Traveling Professor travelers who have taken the "Sound of Music Tour" have enjoyed it immensely. And of course, there is the famous Salzburg Music Festival.   The classic Christmas song, "Silent Night" was composed in Salzburg. 

Christmas Markets:  We have done several Traveling Professor small group tours to Salzburg during the winter and have visited the festive Christmas markets.  Every night there is Austrian Glühwein, music and caroling, and of course authentic food and shopping.  A horse-drawn carriage ride will certainly put anyone in the Christmas spirit. 

Wonderful Attractions:  As mentioned, Mozart's birthplace and home can be visited.  Also on the list is Mirabell Palace and Gardens, the imposing Fortress Hohensalzburg,  or a stroll around the Old Town.  The Professor highly recommends a guided walk with Michaela Muhr from The Salzburg Experience.  Although The Professor has never had a desire to go outside of town, many like the famous salt mines and the infamous Eagle's Nest.  

Places to Eat:  There is nothing like a traditional Christmas dinner or a Mozart dinner at the ancient and traditional Stiftskeller St. Peter.   For a real Austrian schnitzel and pretzel with a sky-high view from Salzburg's best beer garden, do Restaurant Stiegl-Keller. Then there is Café Tomaselli, a staple in the Salzburg coffee scene.  It has baked goods like no other place in the world. 

Where to Stay:  The Professor enjoys family owned Hotel Elefant and it's great location right in the center of the historic city.  The 5-star experience is at the Hotel Sacher Salzburg.

Travel to Austria with The Traveling Professor on one of his small group tours.