Salzburg is a quaint Austrian city on the border with Germany. The wholesome and pretty city is in immaculate condition, with many beautiful medieval and baroque buildings to admire in the old town. Music lovers will know this mountain-surrounded city best as the birthplace of Mozart and home to the iconic Sound of Music musical film. Aside from these important claims to fame, Salzburg also has a strong heritage of art and food to discover. When you want a break from the idyllic way of life here, the lush countryside is a wonderful place to walk and escape for a breath of fresh air.

To Stay

Hotel Stein – This iconic hotel has recently had a big renovation… the modern stylish bedrooms are wonderfully luxurious and comfortable, and the rooftop bar offers spectacular panoramic views. Conveniently located in the centre of town, close by to all the city’s major attractions, it is the ideal place to stay for a weekend in Salzburg.

To Eat

Esszimmer – This award-winning restaurant by chef Andreas Kaiblinger is found on the outskirts of town. Our experience was thoughtful and delicious from start to finish, thanks to the brilliant waiting staff. There are various tasting menus to choose from but we opted to try a few a la carte dishes. As well as a beautifully light cod dish and bold lamb recipe, Esszimmer also excelled with inventive vegetarian options.

Zwetters – For the ultimate schnitzel experience, do as the locals do and visit Zwetters. This 160 year old restaurant is renowned for its great hospitality and high standard of cuisine. We loved the chicken schnitzel but weren’t as big fans of the traditional Austrian dessert, Salzburger Nockel.

Carpe Diem – This creative Michelin-starred restaurant is a lovely place to stop for lunch in the old town. The wine list features a range of unique Austrian wines, while the menu showcases the best local produce from Char (fish) with blueberries to Saddle of Venison with dumplings. We loved the trio of filled, bite-sized cones, which the restaurant has become known for.

Seven Senses – Located on the rooftop of the Hotel Stein this popular eatery has the best views of the city and a tasty international menu.

L’Osteria – If you are in need of a quick, relaxed and delicious dinner L’Osteria is the perfect restaurant to satisfy your cravings. Sit on the al fresco terrace and order a pizza. They are generous in size with extra thin bases and plenty of cheese!

To Drink

Grad 220 – For speciality coffee in Salzburg, Grad 220 is the best place to go. 220 roast their own coffee and the menu lists an extensive range of drinks. The coffee is rich and flavoursome and the cafe atmosphere is welcoming and relaxed. Apparently the breakfast menu is great too.

Kaffee Alchemie – Rustic and friendly Kaffee Alchemie has a passion for serving high quality, fairtrade coffee. This cosy cafe is located on the river’s edge and is a great place to visit for a delicious morning caffeine kick.

Hangar-7 – Hangar-7 at Salzburg Airport is an unusual and unique building that houses the historical Flying Bulls aircraft fleet and a collection of Formula 1 race cars. This multi-purpose building also houses a space for art exhibitions, Restaurant Ikarus, and two bars. Mayday bar offers a range of exquisite cocktails and food from visiting guest chefs, while the Threesixty bar is a great place to enjoy a glass of champagne with a view of the legendary Flying Bulls fleet.

To Do

Mozarts Geburtshaus – Mozart and Salzburg are intrinsically linked, and the city proudly parades this wherever possible, with statues, homages and even chocolate shops dedicated to the genius composer. If you visit only one Mozart sight, I recommend his birthplace house, a charming tribute to the great man and his family, with an extensive collection of his belongings, music and artefacts.

Panorama Sound of Music Tour – In 1964 Hollywood arrived in Salzburg to film ‘The Sound of Music’… and the rest is history. Panorama offer a number of themed tours, the perfect way for fans to visit and understand how various parts of the city and its surrounding areas were used in the film. We found our guide enthusiastic and knowledgeable, and loved witnessing so many of the film’s iconic location. It was also a lovely way to see more of Austria… I particularly loved stopping in the picturesque town of Mondsee, where the wedding was filmed.

Mirabell Palace and Gardens – This important neoclassical palace is a must when visiting the historical sights of Salzburg. Even more spectacular, perhaps, are the beautifully ordered gardens that feature fountains and mythology-themed statues dating back to 1730.

To Shop

Kirchtag – This special umbrella shop is the workshop and store of Alois Kirchtag. Found in the heart of the old town on Getreidegasse, it is famous for its beautifully handmade umbrellas of the highest quality. Choose from the extensive, but expensive range in store or order one to your exact specification… choosing the handle wood, the material and the colour.

Gürtelmacher Schliesselberger – The Schliesselberger family have been in the leatherworking trade since 1820. Visit their wondrous old-fashioned shop in Salzburg to admire the full range of bags and belts, and customise your own. They still use the 200 year-old guillotine shears to make the belts, and offer over 400 types of leather in a whole variety of colours to ensure there is a belt to suit every visitor who walks through their door.

Many thanks to the Salzburg Tourist Board for providing Visit Salzburg passes for the trip.