Salzburg – an Enchanting, Baroque, West European City

The charming city of Salzburg, nestled in the heart of Europe, is proof of the adage that the best things come in small packages.

Salzburg is known as the birthplace of the famous composer, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. Its rich cultural heritage is reflected by the numerous music festivals and concerts organized throughout the year.

One of the city’s focal points is certainly the Altstadt, the magnificently preserved old city, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The centre of Salzburg will make you think you are part of a movie set.

While not a large city, Salzburg has many attractions. After spending a few days in this city, you will realize your planned visit is too short and that you really should come again.

Hellbrunn Palace was built in the 17th century as a summer residence and a place for entertainment, which has kept its charm even for the modern visitor. It is known as the Baroque Disneyland, where fun is guaranteed. Among its highlights are the statutes adorning the fountains and fishponds and spurting sudden sprays of water in unexpected directions. If you visit Salzburg around Christmas or New Year, make sure to visit this palace, which is truly transformed by festive euphoria.

Mirabell Palace is like a fairy-tale castle. It was built at the behest of Prince-Archbishop Wolf Dietrich von Raitenau in the 17th century and dedicated to his wife. You will be charmed by the beauty of its park, the well-tended gardens, walking paths, fountains, and the Marble Hall – the ideal venue for a dream wedding.

The Hohensalzburg Fortress sits atop a hill with a commanding view of the entire city. The Fortress, located at an altitude of 506 m is reached by funicular or, if you are in good shape, on foot. Built in 1077, it is one of the largest and best-preserved fortresses in Europe. Its striking white colour makes it a dominant feature of the Salzburg panorama.

All around Salzburg you will be met by the image of its most prominent citizen, the genius of classical music, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. One of the most popular museums is Mozart’s birthplace, the house authentically reconstructed after the Second World War. The apartment on the third floor of the yellow house in Getreidegasse 9 holds a rich collection of the composer’s personal items – instruments, portraits, and the original musical scores of Mozart’s compositions.

The Salzburg Cathedral, originally built in the 8th century, was reconstructed several times during its long history. It is located in the very heart of the city and was the venue of Mozart’s christening.

The Salzach river, flowing between the old and new part of the city, is crossed by thirteen bridges and flanked by numerous bicycle paths and parks. It is customary in Salzburg to relax on the grassy banks of the Salzach, so pack a blanket and a picknick basket and enjoy nature.

Couples can take a stroll to the Makartsteg bridge, attach a love lock to the bridge and throw the key into the river. This is an old custom also known in other European cities but you will be amazed by the number of love locks you will see on this bridge.

A river cruise or a bike ride along the banks of the Salzbach will give you a different perspective of Salzburg’s landmarks – like images on postcards!

Austrians are world-renowned confectioners and they take particular pride in the Mozartkugel. Mozart never tasted this confectionary product made of pistachio, nougat, and dark chocolate bearing his name. It was made by Paul Fürst, a prime confectioner from Salzburg, in 1891, to mark one hundred years from the famous composer’s death. Today Mozartkugel are an all-time favourite and a recognizable Austrian brand. Mozartkugel are probably the best souvenir you can take home and one that will make the sweet symphony of your trip continue after your return.

While in Austria, be sure to also try the Austrian Sachertorte. Tafelspitz is a typical meal of veal with a side dish of fried potatoes, as is the Vienna schnitzel, originally made of veal. And don’t miss the local sausages, cheeses, broths, wine and beer.

Air Serbia offers you a direct flight to Salzburg at reasonable fares, with only two hours’ flight time. Once you land, don’t be in a hurry to leave the airport, make a tour of the aircraft museum Hangar 7. Here you will be able to see the famous Douglas DC-68, the luxury old-timer from the 1960s, once owned by our airline.