Travel Diary of Salzburg, Austria – A City of Music and Fairy Tales

On the first day of arriving in Salzburg, I was greeted by the sound of bells resonating throughout the city. It was then I realized that this place was not just a tourist destination but a city that flows like a melody. Nestled in the embrace of the Alps, this quiet city had a charm far richer and deeper than its title as 'Mozart's hometown.' Entering the Old Town, the cobblestone streets and densely packed Baroque-style buildings felt like stepping into a scene from an old storybook. Mozart's birthplace was small and modest, yet the mere fact that it was the space where his music was born filled me with overwhelming emotions. Street musicians played his compositions on violins and pianos, making music alive not just within museums but throughout the city. The highlight of Salzburg was undoubtedly the Hohensalzburg Fortress. Taking the cable car up, I was met with a magnificent view that encompassed the entire city and stretched to the distant Alps. The white buildings, red rooftops, and the flowing Salzach River combined to create a landscape that was nothing short of art. Another unforgettable experience was the 'Sound of Music Tour.' Walking through Mirabell Gardens, visiting Leopoldskron Lake and Nonnberg Abbey, I felt like the protagonist of a musical. Especially the view from the steps of Mirabell Palace Garden, with its flowers, sculptures, and the Alps in the background, was a scene I will never forget. The final evening was warmly concluded with local cuisine. Traditional Austrian schnitzel paired with beer, and the dessert of Sachertorte left a taste of Austria lingering in my mouth. Salzburg may not be grand or extravagant, but it is a city of quiet inspiration and profound resonance. A place where music, nature, and art blend seamlessly, it feels like time flows a little slower here, as if under a spell. "Someday, I wish to return and simply stay here, doing nothing but being part of the music-like essence of this city." That is what Salzburg means to me.