We discovered that the incredible 9 Euro pass (covering every bus and local / regional train in the country, all month) even gets us to Salzburg, Austria – so who are we to say no to an adventure?
Salzburg is a big city, and known for it’s baroque architecture style. We wandered the distance between the Hbf and the Hohensalzburg fortress that was our main destination, taking in city streets, cool buildings, a formal garden, the all-pedestrian shopping district, and the river.
Little hidden routes everywhere Beautiful pedestrian streetsGarden we stumbled intoYou can see the fortress from the bridgeApproaching the fortress
One stop Dave insisted on was McDonald’s – he wants to compare Big Mac meals in each country.
Jen tried a McRoyal this time – hamburger with lettuce, tomatoes, onion, and McChicken sauce. Definitely better than North American menu options.
Eventually arriving at the fortress, we took the funicular up to the courtyard, then started climbing stairs, enjoying the panorama walkway, the top of the tallest tower, museums, restored rooms, and more. An absolutely fantastic medieval attraction.
Funicular Looking back at the funicular This is a fortress Beyond is old town Salzburg A great view of Hohensalzburg from the towerThe wall walk, with oak boards running the routeFrom the wallInside the courtyard Appreciating the viewsCannonThe royal bathroom disposal hangs out over the wallAn example from the golden chambers, including a beautiful tile stoveThe great hallThe hearth that was exclusively used to serve the Archbishop/PrinceThese arches were rediscovered in 1998, having been hidden during early expansions An exhibition on toys cautioned against glamorizing medieval times, and used a Lego set identical to one Dave had as a child (and our nephew now has) as an example Huge door, and a door-within-a-doorArmourThis truly felt like what you think of when you think medieval castle
After thoroughly visiting all there was to see, we descended a level to a patio restaurant, appreciating the view with dinner.
The restaurant Prost!Spinach knödel for Jen and spaghetti for Dave. A fabulous view to season the meal
After dinner, we walked along the river to the train station, enjoying the scenery. We took a train to Bad Reichenhall where we were able to get a bus that brought us to the door of our hotel. Convenient end to a long but satisfying day.
Departing in the funicular Just outside the fortress- a huge baroque fountain Jen bought a city hat, since Dave insists she wear one and a Tilley just doesn’t fit in
Leave a reply to Kristy Cancel reply