Systematic: A well-planned visit to Salzburg should start at the Hohensalzburg Fortress. High above the city one can still feel the power emitting from the mighty towers while viewing the sights below. But, take heed! Beholding a few architectural highlights will surely not render a memorable tour of the city. Delightful surprises are awaiting you below!

Coffee break: Should it happen that when arriving-you are greeted by a powerful rain shower, then luck will have it that the city of Mozart not only lies between Vienna and Italy, but also proudly carries on its own tradition of coffee houses. As early as 1705, the Italians established the "Tomaselli" Cafe (above). The "Furst", built in 1884 and famous for the Mozartkugeln, is also on Alter Markt.

From church tower to church tower: On a stroll through the "Rome of the North", one finds churches from all eras of architecture - Romanesque, Gothic, Baroque and contemporary. There seems to be a church on every corner and if you walk from "cross to cross", you will even find other places of interest. So get going! Two little churches, which are particularly special, are: St. John on Imberg (New Town) and St. Michael - i oldest parish church in the city on Residence Square.

Not to be missed: The Top-10-Sights (# marks sites we visited)

Hohensalzburg Fortress(#) - In all of Europe there is no medieval fortress of this kind which has survived the centuries so soundly as this landmark of Salzburg. With the help of a funicular you are up at the fortress within seconds. The view is breathtaking!

Dom (Cathedral)(#) - This magnificent early baroque building is the spiritual center of the city. It gives witness to the noble and resolute Prince Archbishops who ruled the land for more than a 1000 years. The facade is of Untersberg marble; the mighty dome and the valuable art treasures impress everyone.

Prince-Archbishops' Residence(#) - The Residence was the worldly center of power of the Prince-Archbishops. The tour through the baroque State Rooms (with audio guides) should not be missed. The baroque fountain at Residence Square is considered the largest one outside of Italy. It was, however, built by an Italian.

St. Peter's Abbey(#) - The cradle of the city! The growth of the city was bolstered by the founding of St. Peter's - the monastery was established in 696. The picturesque cemetery is the oldest in Austria and the restaurant - " Peterskeller"-is old as the hills!

Mozart's Birthplace(#) - A look at the house of birth is recommended, at least from the outside. All those devoted to a Mozart, however, should visit the museum.

Getreidegasse(#) - During the Middle Ages, the Getreidegasse was the only thoroughfare and center of commerce. Crowded with people in the daytime, the ambience of late evening brings forth a feeling of times past.

Festival District(#) - The three Festival Halls are situated in the former riding stables of the Archbishop. Don't miss the guided tour at 2 p.m. (in high season several times a day).

Mirabell Palace and Gardens(#) - On one of the many park benches, you can quietly read about the creation of the Mirabell Gardens. The Archbishop built the palace for his beloved companion Salome Alt.

Schloss Leopoldskron - Leopoldskron is the most beautiful of the castles and palaces around Salzburg. It has served as the backdrop for many films and TV productions (e. g. "The Sound of Music").