Salzburg's particular blend of sophistication, charm and elegance is best experienced by simply wandering the city environs, preferably without a map.

A perfectly preserved Baroque city, with a vibrant Old Town, there are enough Alpen peak indicators, church towers and friendly (multi-lingual) townspeople to prevent any prolonged loss of way. Steps from the city's spacious squares and garden parks are numerous entryways to the historic Old Town - a truly genuine ambience brimming with cobblestone alleys, medieval signs and tempting fragrances. Tiny shops abound, selling the most tantalizing sweets, as well as antiques, crafts and fashions. The name Mozart is, of course, synonymous with Salzburg. His birthplace is today a virtual museum exhibiting details of his life, music and operatic productions. He personally did not thrive in Salzburg, thanks in part to the presiding Archbishop that kept the city and the monetary rewards of its salt mines under tight control. But music will prevail: an available guestroom is rare during the Mozart Week in January or during the world renowned Salzburg Festival, held every summer in July and August. During the remaining months the various churches, palaces, parks, theaters and Mozarteum Concert Hall saturate the air with music - heard as one wanders Salzburg's enchanting alleys and squares.