Salzburg is a wonderful place to visit over the holidays, but it can be even more memorable if you avoid the crowds. During my most recent trip, I looked for more sedate locations that highlighted the city’s beauty away from the bustle of tourist hotspots.
The Hellbrunn Palace Gardens were my favorite find; they were peaceful even throughout the holiday season. Exploring the surrounding grounds and the well-known trick fountains offered a tranquil escape, even if the Hellbrunn Christmas Market draws tourists. A hidden jewel where I could enjoy the peace and envision performances from ages past was the neighboring Stone Theatre (Steintheater), an outdoor stage set into the rock.
The Kapuzinerberg, a hilltop overlooking Salzburg’s old center, was another peaceful location. With its meandering routes through woodlands and sporadic glimpses of the city below, the trek up was serene. Away from the busy marketplaces and tourist thoroughfares, the Kapuzinerkloster Monastery provided a peaceful setting for introspection at the summit.
I went to St. Peter’s Cemetery (Petersfriedhof) early in the morning for a cultural getaway. Although it may seem strange, the well kept cemetery was serene and alluring, with snow-covered grave markers and a sense of peace that transported one back in time. It was also peaceful to tour the nearby St. Peter’s Abbey.
I discovered the quaint village of Anif, just outside of Salzburg, which is the ideal location for a leisurely holiday walk. Despite being private, the Anif Palace is breathtaking from the outside, particularly in the winter.
Although Salzburg is known for its busy attractions, I was able to take my time and appreciate the city’s beauty at these lesser-known locations. They provided me with the ideal vacation experience by allowing me to peacefully and meaningfully engage with Salzburg’s history and natural surroundings.
