A weekend ini SALZBURG

Mix sightseeing and relaxation for the ultimate winter break in Austria

- CHRIS MORLEY

Hugged by snow-capped mountains, Salzburg is as spellbinding as a fairy tale. Sandwiched between sheer H rock and the milky-blue Salzach River, the old town is a swirl of turrets and domes, overlooked by a clifftop fortress. Church bells echo through squares, and the medieval streets are jammed with tall townhouses and traditional shops, topped with swirly golden guild signs. The city's historic sights and closeness to the airport (just 15 minutes by taxi) make it perfect to dip into over a weekend. Then, when you need a change of pace, head to an Alpine spa for a luxurious pamper.

Mozart and Maria 

Music is in the bones of the city. Classical fans flock to the yellow house at No. 9 Getreidegasse, where Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was born in 1756, and which is now a museum dedicated to the composer.

Concerts and operas are everywhere, but they can be pricey. For a thrifty option, check events at Mozarteum University (moz.ac.at/en), where you can watch stellar student musicians for free.