A February trip to Innsbruck and Salzburg is the perfect winter getaway. These two Austrian cities offer a wonderful blend of alpine charm, history, and culture. For my four-night adventure, I immersed myself in the snow-dusted beauty of Innsbruck’s mountains, explored Salzburg’s baroque elegance, and visited must-see attractions like Swarovski Kristallwelten and the Mozart-Wohnhaus. Here’s a look at how my trip unfolded.
After a short flight into Innsbruck, the capital of Tyrol, I was immediately struck by the dramatic backdrop of snow-covered peaks surrounding the city. Innsbruck feels like a gateway to the Alps, with its pastel-colored buildings set against a rugged mountain skyline.
I stayed at a cozy hotel in the heart of the Old Town, just a short walk from Innsbruck’s famous landmarks. After checking in, I headed out to explore the medieval Altstadt. The Golden Roof (Goldenes Dachl), one of the city’s most iconic attractions, gleamed under the winter sun. This ornate balcony, built for Emperor Maximilian I in the 16th century, is a testament to the city’s rich history.
After wandering through the narrow streets lined with boutique shops and cafés, I stopped for dinner at Stiftskeller, a traditional Austrian restaurant. The hearty Tyrolean gröstl (a potato and meat dish) was perfect for a cold winter evening, and the warm, welcoming atmosphere set the tone for the days ahead.
On my second day, I took the short trip from Innsbruck to Swarovski Kristallwelten (Swarovski Crystal Worlds), located in the nearby town of Wattens. This magical attraction is a blend of art, innovation, and crystal craftsmanship. The moment you enter the sprawling park, you’re greeted by the impressive Giant, a large, grass-covered head that leads you into the Crystal Worlds beneath.
Inside, I explored the Chambers of Wonder, where international artists have created breathtaking installations using Swarovski crystals. Each room is like stepping into a different world, full of light, reflections, and dazzling creativity. The outdoor crystal cloud and mirror pool, especially with the winter landscape as a backdrop, were simply mesmerizing.
Back in Innsbruck later that afternoon, I took a ride on the Nordkette cable car, which whisks you from the city center up to the Nordkette mountain range in just 20 minutes. From the Hafelekarspitze peak, I enjoyed panoramic views of Innsbruck below and the endless snowy peaks of the Alps stretching beyond. For dinner, I found a charming café to warm up, sipping Austrian mulled wine (Glühwein) and indulging in Apfelstrudel.
On day three, we drove to Salzburg, a two-hour journey through scenic alpine landscapes. Arriving in Salzburg feels like stepping into a baroque fairytale. The city’s historic architecture, set along the Salzach River, is framed by a fortress-topped hill.
My first stop was the Mozart-Wohnhaus, the former residence of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. Located just across the river from Salzburg’s Old Town, this museum offers a glimpse into the composer’s life and his family’s influence on his musical career. Touring the rooms where Mozart lived, practiced, and composed gave me a deeper appreciation of his genius, and the museum’s collection of original manuscripts and instruments was a real treat for any classical music lover.
After exploring the Mozart-Wohnhaus, I spent the rest of the afternoon wandering through Salzburg’s Getreidegasse, the city’s famous shopping street, where Mozart was born. The quaint, narrow street is lined with beautifully preserved shops and wrought-iron signs that transport you back in time. I enjoyed lunch at Café Tomaselli, Austria’s oldest café, where Mozart himself was known to frequent.
That evening, I attended a classical concert in the Mirabell Palace, a beautiful baroque venue that often hosts performances of Mozart’s works. It was the perfect way to immerse myself in Salzburg’s rich musical heritage.
On my final full day, I explored more of Salzburg’s historic sites, starting with a visit to the Hohensalzburg Fortress. Perched high above the city, this imposing medieval castle offers stunning views of Salzburg and the Alps beyond. The fortress itself is a fascinating place to explore, with its winding staircases, ancient halls, and exhibits on Salzburg’s history.
In the afternoon, I visited Salzburg Cathedral and the surrounding DomQuartier, which includes museums and galleries showcasing Salzburg’s religious and political history. The cathedral’s baroque interior is breathtaking, and its dome is a masterpiece of art and architecture.
For dinner, I chose St. Peter Stiftskeller, the oldest restaurant in Europe, dating back to 803 AD. Dining in such a historic setting was a memorable experience, and the traditional Austrian cuisine was a perfect end to the day.
On my final morning, I took a leisurely stroll through Salzburg’s peaceful gardens, including the beautiful Mirabell Gardens, where the famous Do-Re-Mi scene from The Sound of Music was filmed. The gardens were serene in the winter light, and it was the perfect place to reflect on my trip before heading to the Airport for my journey home.
Tips for Visiting Innsbruck and Salzburg in Winter:
Innsbruck and Salzburg are perfect destinations for a winter escape. From the glittering wonders of Swarovski Kristallwelten to the musical history of Mozart’s birthplace, this four-night trip offered a beautiful blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. Whether you’re skiing in the Alps or strolling through Salzburg’s baroque streets, Austria in February is an enchanting experience.