48 hrs in Salzburg

You might visit Nonnberg Abbey, which was where the real Marie lived. It's around behind the hill on which the fortress sits, to the left as you see it from town. If you come out the main gate of the fortress, across the moat bridge, and through the ticket gate, at the bottom of the hill is a foot path above the town (I think it's where Julie Andrews start singing "I have confidence ...". That path goes around to the Abbey. You can see the outside of the Abbey, but not much of the inside. We did find the door to the chapel open. I don't know if we were supposed to go in or not, but we did. It's not the chapel used in the movie. That chapel was somewhere else in town, the only church that would let them film inside. Likewise, we couldn't see the courtyard, but the courtyard in the movie was a Hollywood set.

If you're a Sound of Music fan, go to the gardens. Whether they're in bloom or not, it's fun to see where they filmed part of the movie. As far as desserts, although it's not Vienna, you can still get a decent Sacher Torte in Salzburg. And, of course, Mozart Kugeln.

Richard, I really enjoyed exploring the various parts of the Hohensalzburg Fortress, and spent at least four hours there. However, I'm not sure whether all sections and exhibits in the Fortress will be open at this time of year?

Dessert is the topic! You must try the Salzburg tradition "Nockerln"! It is absolutely wonderful and this is the only place you can enjoy it. We found the best at a restaurant by the name of Sternbrau, although it is served other places in town. Also, at Demel - chocolate, chocolate, chocolate. If you enjoy coffee, try a melange at Demel - YUM!

Thanks for the suggestions. Most places are open in the winter but the hours are reduced. The Abbey looks interesting. I'm sure the two days will fly by. Throw in an inch or so of snow and I'll really be in the Christmas mood. Thanks.

My husband and I loved Salzburg, and I'm taking my sisters there in May. I did not get any Nockerl, and have regretted it since (almost 10 years!) Our waiter at St. Peter's actually talked me out of it, saying I wouldn't have room. I should have been the ugly American, ordered it anyway, and left some!! Guess what I'll be eating in Salzburg in May?? Nonnberg and the Hohensalzburg are must-sees. The protective majesty of the Hohensalzburg, and the peace of Nonnberg...such a contrast, and so beautiful!

Hotel Elefant is actually in the old town, not near tne university, but it isn't far from the train station (across the river).

I've never bought the Salzburg card, I would have to price it out. Normally you benefit from the transportation part of the card but I've never needed transportation once I'm in town. Once you are in old town, everything is very walkable. I would add the Augustiner Brewery for a beer and basic food. The foot bridges across the river north of town are a great place to view the lit cityscape in the evening - IMO one of the most beautiful views in Europe.

Definitely the Augustiner brewery for the big beerhall experience (and food!).