Salzburg, Austria, has always held a special place in our hearts. We’ve visited this enchanting city a number of times, both in the warm glow of summer and the magical chill of winter, and each season has revealed a completely different side of its character. Nestled near Austria’s western border with Germany, at the foot of the Eastern Alps and along the banks of the Salzach River, Salzburg is one of the country’s most picturesque and culturally rich cities. It’s a place where baroque architecture, music, and mountain scenery come together in perfect harmony — a city that feels like a living symphony.
Salzburg’s history is as grand and melodic as its skyline of domes and spires. The city’s name translates to “Salt Castle,” a nod to the salt trade that once brought it great wealth. For centuries, it was ruled by powerful prince-archbishops who built lavish palaces, churches, and gardens, many of which still define the city’s landscape today. But Salzburg’s fame extends far beyond its architecture — it is forever tied to the world of music. This is the birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, one of history’s greatest composers, and you can feel his influence everywhere — from his former home, now a museum, to the daily performances of his works in churches and concert halls throughout the city.
In summer, Salzburg radiates warmth and charm. We strolled through the Mirabell Gardens, where sculpted fountains and manicured flowerbeds frame perfect views of the Hohensalzburg Fortress perched high above the old town. The historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a maze of narrow cobbled streets filled with boutiques, cafes, and the scent of freshly baked pretzels. We often found ourselves sitting at an outdoor café along Getreidegasse, soaking in the city’s relaxed rhythm and listening to musicians perform in the streets. The nearby mountains make for easy day trips — from a scenic drive to the Salzkammergut lakes to a hike through alpine meadows that seem straight out of a postcard.
Winter in Salzburg, however, feels truly magical. The city transforms into a Christmas fairytale, with festive lights strung across the squares, snow dusting the rooftops, and the air filled with the scent of roasted chestnuts and mulled wine. We especially loved visiting during December when we experienced the famous Krampus parade — an unforgettable tradition unique to this region. Krampus, according to Alpine legend, is a horned, half-goat, half-demon creature who accompanies St. Nicholas during the Christmas season, punishing naughty children while St. Nicholas rewards the good ones. The parade features people dressed in elaborate, frightening costumes, clanging bells, and roaring theatrically through the streets — a thrilling mix of ancient folklore and festive celebration. It’s both eerie and exhilarating, and it captures the deep cultural roots that make Salzburg so fascinating.
Whether blanketed in snow or glowing under summer sunshine, Salzburg never loses its magic. The Hohensalzburg Fortress offers breathtaking panoramic views, while the city’s many museums, churches, and music halls remind visitors of its artistic heritage. Between Mozart’s legacy, “The Sound of Music” filming sites, and the surrounding alpine beauty, Salzburg feels like a place where art and nature meet perfectly.We’ve found that spending at least three days in Salzburg allows enough time to explore its rich history, enjoy its musical offerings, and wander beyond the city to its scenic surroundings. Yet no matter how long you stay, Salzburg always leaves you with the feeling that you’ve stepped into a world where beauty, history, and music are eternally intertwined.