Salzburg, Halstatt, Ramsau

I was in Hallstatt at the beginning of December 2017. It snowed the day before and it was GORGEOUS! I was on a RS tour, so arrived by bus, but have been to Hallstatt during the summer previously. That time I traveled there by train, and recall lovely mountain scenery getting there.

I was on the MSV tour that started on Dec 10, so I think it was the 12th we got to Hallstatt. Yes, it was snowy for me, too, and a little icy. Hallstatt photos were the best of the trip. If the weather is reasonable, I would make the attempt. I am hoping to return there for the Krampuslauf some year - that would be December 5.

we will be there in mid December. we have been in the area twice before in May/June, so unsure about December. we stayed in Ramsau last year and hiked in the area. the sleigh ride sounds interesting to us as well. I will make enquires.

In Salzburg we stayed at Hohenstauffen by the train station. http://www.hotel-hohenstauffen.at/hotels/ We liked it very much, it's charming, local and the family that runs it is attentive. They serve a large buffet breakfast with many choices and table served coffee/tea. It's a pretty 10-15 walk to the old town along the river. The location was nice for us since we arrived by train so only needed to drag luggage a few blocks and it was very convenient for a day trip via train to Munich. For Hallstatt, as well, to get the most out of your day the closer to the train station and an early start will make your day more fun. I highly recommend the beautiful baroque cathedral and St. Peter's cemetery. The funicular up to the fort provided spectacular views.

Thank you all so much! Based on your responses, I will look at including both Ramsau and Halstatt. Has anyone done the Mozart dinner/concert? It was recommended, but if it's corny or hokey, we will skip it.

We did the Mozart dinner concert this past Easter with our boys, age 15 & 11. Here's what I said in my trip report:

That night we attended the Mozart dinner concert at St. Peter's. This was the big splurge of the trip (around 240E for tickets and beverages, which aren't included in dinner) but well worth it. Food was grand and the entertainment top notch. Opera isn't our thing, but the 2 singers & 5 musicians were fantastic. I assumed that they sang while you ate but instead, they sing about 20 minutes of selections from one of Mozart's operas and then a course is served (3 courses total). The singers were theatrical and funny, not just standing around. It was a truly special way to celebrate Easter.

It wasn't corny or hokey in the least and would recommend it! You can save 10% if you buy online using the Salzburg card discount. We bought the card once we got to Salzburg, but they never asked to see it when we checked in for the dinner.

This is such a helpful response regarding the Mozart dinner concert! Thank you!