Sparkling SALZBURG

The Austrian alpine city shines bright in the festive season

- CHRIS MORLEY

Pretty as a postcard, Salzburg for a winter break gives you all the magic of a fairy tale, with the domes and spires of the UNESCO-listed Old Town dusted in snow, light-festooned markets in medieval squares, and a host of Advent activities.

Once titled the 'Rome of the North', due to its grand churches and Italian-style architecture, Salzburg was originally settled by Benedictine monks. In the 15th and 16th centuries it grew wealthy under the rule of the Bishop Princes, when the trade in salt ('white gold') swelled its coffers. It then became part of Austria in 1815.

Today, it's best known for its musical legacy - it was the birthplace of Mozart and home to the Von Trapp family, immortalised in many people's favourite film, The Sound of Music.

Folk traditions

As you might expect, Salzburg is big on Christmas traditions. Festive markets abound, including one in the courtyard of Hohensalzburg fortress, the 11th-century castle that dominates the city skyline.