Fairytale Advent and Christmas in Salzburg, Austria, the city of Mozart!

Advent and Christmas is undoubtedly one of the finest seasons in the city of Salzburg. When the snowflakes swirl through the air, when the children build snowmen in the Mirabell Gardens and the sweet scent of mulled wine flows through the narrow streets, even the most serious people become hopeless romantics.

Romantic Moments:
It is the season for romantic walks across the city's hilltops, enjoying the breathtaking view of the city's snow-covered roofs, domes and towers. The ringing of countless church bells reminds us that Christmas is near. When getting back down into the city, the merry activity at the Salzburg Christmas Markets fills us with a cozy, warm feeling and wakes fond childhood memories. The fragrance of punch and toasted almonds, hot roasted chestnuts and freshly baked apples tickles our noses; the vendors' gingerbread hearts, nativity figures, Christmas tree ornaments, toys and warm sweaters are irresistable.

Culture and Reflection:
A variety of traditional events in Salzburg make the wait for Christmas Eve a little easier.
Advent Serenades, celebrations and classical concerts offer a quiet and contemplative atmosphere.
This is also the time to take a trip to the beautiful country village Filzmoos with a sleigh ride through the mountains. Rosy cheeks and happy expressions are proof that this was a successful day - one that you will remember long afterwards.

Also learn about the history of the famous Christmas carol "Silent Night". Joseph Mohr, writer of the song was born in the city of Salzburg and the song was the first time performed in Oberndorf, a small village near Salzburg. Make a trip to the famous "Silent Night - Holy Night" chapel there and see for yourself.

Christmas magic and Christmas markets:
The romantic Salzburg Christmas markets are well known: the historical Christmas market in Cathedral Square and Residence Square is in existence since the end of the 15th century. It is one of the most famous Christmas markets in addition to the markets in Vienna, Paris, Amsterdam, and Nuremberg. In 2007, a European Christmas market study evaluated the Salzburg Christmas market as one of the finest markets in the German-speaking area.
If you are in Salzburg during the Advent season, a visit to the Hellbrunn "Advent Magic" and the smaller markets, such as at Mirabellplatz, in Stern Garden, in St. Peter's Monastery in Maxglan or at the fortress Hohensalzburg are a must.

Christmas Eve and Christmas Day:
Traditionally in Austria, on the 24th of December (Christmas Eve) - after Christmas Eve dinner is served, the "Christkindl" (Christ child) is the one that brings the children their presents. The Christkindl also decorates the tree. The door to the room where the tree is decorated is locked and the window to this room is wide open so that the Christkindl can fly in and decorate the tree and leave the presents under the tree. Austrian children do not see the decorated tree until the Christkindl will ring a small bell on top of the tree and then departs through the open window again. Each year's tree seems to be the most magical ever. For every child this is such a wonderful surprise and the excitement is almost unbearable!

To read a wonderful Christmas in Salzburg Itinerary, please visit: www.AustriaTravel.ws

Visit the world heritage city, the birth place of musical genius Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Salzburg during Advent and Christmas and become a child again!

About the Author:
Karin, co-owner of AustriaTravel lives and works in Joshua Tree (near Palm Springs), California. Besides organizing tours to Austria, she is operating a Personal Chef Service specializing in New Austrian Cuisine. She earned a fine arts masters degree in Austria and is also an Austrian state certified travel agent with years of experience.