At 8 o'clock in the morning, I wake up startled. I look beside but don't see my wife Angela lying there. Startled, I sit up, but then I see Angela already enjoying the morning sun on the balcony with our three young children. I decide to prepare a nice breakfast for my family and together with Angela, we discuss in the sunshine on the balcony what we're going to do that day. While enjoying fresh kaiser rolls with cheese and sausage and a glass of orange juice, Angela and I quickly agree: today, we're going on a city break to Salzburg!
Drive to Salzburg
After breakfast, we get ready for the trip from our chalet in Dienten am Hochkönig to Salzburg. It's about an hour's drive to Mozart's birthplace. However, that's no problem for my family because we always entertain ourselves well in the car. This time is no different: we enthusiastically sing along to all the songs we play while enjoying the beautiful mountains around us. As we near Salzburg, Angela takes out her phone and makes a list of the top three activities in the city.
Festung Hohensalzburg
As we drive into the city, we're greeted by the beautiful architecture and lively atmosphere. I park the car, and 'tour guide' Angela tells us where to go. Our first stop: the famous Festung Hohensalzburg. An impressive castle towering high above the city. I've parked the car at the foot of the hill, so together we make the climb up.
Once we arrive at the ancient castle, we explore the corridors and rooms of the magnificent structure. From the high towers, we have a breathtaking view of the city and the surrounding mountains! While I marvel at the panoramic view, Angela takes beautiful photos of the scenery and the children for our photo book.
Festung Hohensalzburg
Salzburger Altstadt
After exploring the castle, Angela and I decide to descend and explore the picturesque streets of the old town, known as the Salzburger Altstadt, as the second highlight of the city. The beautiful streets and alleys of Salzburg are dotted with cozy cafes, colorful shops, and historic buildings. My family strolls through the streets, enjoying the lively atmosphere of the city. Until we reach a cozy square with some restaurants. Especially the youngest one has worked up an appetite after their 'climb' to Festung Hohensalzburg, so Angela and I decide to have lunch. Angela opts for a delicious plate of Kaiserschmarrn, while I go for a less typical Austrian but equally tasty dish: pasta Bolognese. The children opt for the kids' menu.
Mozart's birthplace
After I've paid the bill, Angela leads us to the next highlight of the city: the Mirabell Gardens, located near the Mirabell Palace. On the way to the court, we also pass by the birthplace of one of the world's most famous composers and born Salzburgers: Wolfgang Mozart. It turns out to be a bright yellow and photogenic house, so here too Angela captures some beautiful shots.
Mirabell
A little later, Angela, the children, and I stroll through the Mirabell Gardens, located across the water from Mozart's birthplace. We all enjoy the scent of flowers, the sound of babbling fountains, as well as my fantasy stories. I tell the children that these gardens were once part of grandpa Joe's enormous kingdom. Angela listens with a broad smile to my stories, especially as she sees how the children are captivated by their father's tales.
Mirabell Palace
Luxury kitchen
After we've also taken a look inside the Mirabell Palace, it's almost five o'clock and the city trip for the five of us is almost over. I suggest grabbing a bite to eat in the city, but Angela prefers to return to our charming chalet in Dienten am Hochkönig. She's already looking forward to preparing a delicious dinner in our gourmet kitchen with all modern amenities.
Ultimate holiday day
Upon returning home, we prepare dinner together, then enjoy it in the typical Austrian dining area in our own chalet. After dinner and after a busy day full of adventure and discoveries in Salzburg, we put the children to bed. Then we decide to relax in the warmth of our private sauna. With a sense of satisfaction, Angela and I discuss the day there and conclude that this may have been the ultimate holiday day!