Austria｜The waltz spinning on the music box

📍 Copenhagen · 👁 2 reads · ❤️ 48 likes

Finally organized the photos, slowly recalling, I instinctively let my fingers gently rest on the keyboard...

All those beautiful, dull, or unremarkable moments, I want to record them all.

Only then did I realize that the story of Eastern Europe is still unfolding.

If you ask me which place I loved most during this trip to Czechia, Austria, and Hungary, I would unhesitatingly answer: Austria.

But I haven't finished...

That's right, the most beloved is Austria, and the most unpleasant memories are also all in Austria.

This country has taken so much of my emotions; suddenly, I don't even know where to start the story.

The lake and mountain scenery beneath the Alps, the land of music hidden among ancient castles, castles, pastures, rivers...

My favorite Austria is in Hallstatt, my least favorite Austria is in Vienna, and the most nostalgic Austria is in Salzburg...

Yes, Salzburg, I love this small city.

Speaking of nostalgia, I wonder if you still remember the story I told about Budapest. The nostalgia of the Hungarian people is the memory they refuse to forget. But facing Salzburg, which is equally steeped in nostalgia, the difference is that the nostalgia here brings me more lightness and joy.

Cinematic nostalgia, musical nostalgia, coffee nostalgia, architectural nostalgia, historical nostalgia, and the romantic nostalgia with a Baroque flavor... You can find your desired vibe in every corner.

My first acquaintance with this small city came from two reasons: one is Mozart, and the other is "The Sound of Music."

But you can't imagine that the first time I found the nostalgia I wanted in this city was not at Mozart's birthplace—9 Getreidegasse, not at Mozart Square filled with classical music, not even at the pilgrimage site where Maria taught the children to sing "Do-Re-Mi."

It was at the Hohensalzburg Fortress, the first time I overlooked this small city.

So if you ask me where to go if I only have time for one place in Salzburg, where would it be?

I would unhesitatingly tell you: go to the fortress.

Standing on the 360-degree panoramic viewing platform of the fortress, the old town unfolds before your eyes. The蜿蜒的 Salzach River, with its swift currents,穿梭 among medieval Baroque buildings. The distant mountains, the nearby cottages, castles, and churches, hidden among the green trees—every glance is a breathtaking sight I've never seen before.

At this moment, Salzburg is like a series of beautiful notes dancing on a staff, different melodies, different sounds. I can almost hear elegant classical music lingering over the entire city.

So this is the hometown of "The Sound of Music," this is the birthplace of Mozart.

The majestic Alps stand right before me, like a giant embracing this small city, gently caring for it. Sunlight spills over the green fields, and the surrounding beauty is heart-stirring. The white snow-capped mountains, the winding paths among the hills, and the cottages below, neatly arranged, are utterly charming.

It's a tranquil pastoral scene, no mistake.

The Hohensalzburg Fortress was first built in 1077. Over its long history, it has undergone countless wars, repairs, and expansions, resulting in what we see today—the largest and best-preserved castle in Central Europe and the most iconic building in Salzburg. No matter where you stand in the city, you can see it as long as you look up.

Bearing the huge光环 of "the fortress never conquered," it stands in a majestic posture, quiet and weathered, perched on the cliffs of this city.

Stepping into the fortress feels like stepping into the whirlpool of history.

Tall walls, deep corridors, and several spacious courtyards connecting the main buildings—I find myself in an indescribable daze.

And as I walk, I can't help but feel a sense of melancholy.

Everywhere are thick walls and mottled traces, as if telling the world of its long history and the battlefields of the past.

At that moment, looking up at the clear blue sky, the sunlight warming the ground, I didn't want to get up.

This scene before me—how has it already been a thousand years in the blink of an eye?

Wandering around the fortress with fewer tourists, I couldn't even tell which era I was in. But thinking it over, perhaps that doesn't matter.

Just feel, touch, and listen to the silent and serene glory that belongs to this place. Why care about other things? What does it have to do with us?

It's enough to make me forget all the noise of the city and the unpleasant little emotions.

The ancient cannon in the courtyard, once a necessary defensive weapon.

Now, its black muzzle still points into the distance, reminding one of Salzburg under fire in those bygone days.

Inside the fortress, there are museums in different areas, including the Fortress Museum, the Military Museum, and the Marionette Museum, offering visitors a deeper understanding of the city's history. If interested, you can consider purchasing a combination ticket for the fortress.

The Marionette Museum is one of the more interesting museums in the fortress.

As soon as I entered, I was captivated by the puppets of all sizes, as if falling into a fairy-tale world not my own.

The display cases show various scenes from marionette plays, each movement and expression lifelike and vivid. The outlines and features of the puppets are very delicate, showing the artists' dedication and meticulousness. It is said that there are performances at certain times, but we didn't come across any.

I don't remember how long we stayed there that day, so long that I didn't want to leave.

What brought me back to my senses was probably the wind blowing across the mountaintop.

At that moment, I stood side by side with the fortress, both looking into the distance—snowy mountains, green fields, old town, ancient castle, music... and the蜿蜒 curve of the Salzach River, breathtakingly beautiful.

If I could have another afternoon, I would still linger here, quietly overlooking this small city I adore.

Recording with my camera, cherishing with my eyes.

Salzburg is undoubtedly a city of art. If you tell me you don't understand music or art, that's okay; maybe after a few days here, you will.

After all, this is Mozart's hometown.

Mozart is the pride of Salzburgers, an incomparable gift from God, and the one who endowed this city with musical charm.

So, after bidding farewell to Hohensalzburg Fortress, we started a journey tracing Mozart's footsteps from Mozart Square at the foot of the mountain.

However, this genius musician was seen as nothing more than a humble servant musician in the eyes of the Archbishop. Unable to bear the humiliation, at the age of 25, he resolutely broke free from the court's束缚 and left his hometown.

From then on, the琴声 of this great wanderer never again sounded over Salzburg.

Today, as you stroll through Salzburg, Mozart's footprints are everywhere. The crowded Mozart's birthplace, the golden signboards attracting tourists, the square, academy, and music festival named after Mozart, the beautifully packaged gold chocolate balls, and various souvenirs in shops—all bear Mozart's portrait.

Even the air is filled with the notes written by Mozart—symphonies, sonatas, serenades, concertos... classical romance, eternal classics.

Adjacent to Mozart Square is the Residenzplatz, known as the heart of Salzburg's old town.

To the west of Residenzplatz is the Old Residence and the Gallery, to the east is the New Residence and the Salzburg Museum, to the south is Salzburg Cathedral, and to the north are old private residences. In the middle of the square is a huge fountain made of marble, said to be the largest Baroque fountain in Central Europe.

Music belongs to Salzburg.

When I stood in a corner of the square, my ears filled with melodious tunes. The familiar "Canon" inadvertently caught my attention; the sound of the dulcimer instantly brought out the elegance of Salzburg. It seemed that with just a turn, I could see the notes floating in the air, one after another, jumping, spinning, leading my steps deeper into this small city.

Besides music, street artists are everywhere, mostly painting portraits and natural scenery. If you have enough time, why not sit down and have them paint a portrait for you? It would be a special memory and a unique gift from your travels.

It is said that these street performers are not trying to make a living but simply want to showcase their exquisite talents. Without a stage, they can still perform happily; without applause, they can still wait for an audience who appreciates them. Nothing can stop their love for music and their persistent pursuit of art.

If you come across a performance you like or a painting you admire, why not slow down, don't be stingy with your applause or the tips in your pocket, or buy a painting or an album to show your support.

Of course, happiness also belongs to Salzburg.

It is said that people are the epitome of a city, so when I saw the smiles on everyone's faces, the old men eating ice cream and chatting in the corner, the ladies leisurely sitting in carriages enjoying the afternoon sun, and the girls dancing to the music... I guessed that life in Salzburg is both romantic and happy.

This city is simply beautiful.

Another adjacent square, Kapitelplatz, features a huge golden sphere with a man in black pants and a white shirt gazing into the distance toward the castle. It is said he is looking for his long-gone girlfriend, but there are several other versions of the story, with no way to verify.

To be honest, a modern sculpture like this, sitting next to a classical Baroque building with a thousand-year history, seems a bit out of place.

Of course, they say the world of art is often not understood by ordinary people, haha~

Under the sphere is a giant international chessboard where pieces can be moved freely. Leisurely people sit under the sculpture, watching their friends engage in a chess match.

A monster ran in midway...........

Forgive me, I'm just a kid, a little too excited~~~~~~~~

Carriages are the most unique mode of transportation in the old town,随处可见.

Imagine riding in an old carriage with peeling paint, the clip-clop of hooves and creaking wheels accompanied by classical music all around. In many moments, I felt as if I had traveled back to the Middle Ages.

The little girl was so cute it could make you melt~~~~

On one side of the square are small shops selling souvenirs and snacks.

On a hot summer day, I bought an ice cream. Whether it looked good didn't matter; the important thing was that one lick would give you diabetes from the sweetness. Helpless, I could only pose for a photo~~~~~~

Salzburg Cathedral, located on the square, is the largest and most important church in the city. Rebuilt between 1614 and 1628, it is the first typical Baroque church north of the Alps. Its huge dome and majestic facade exemplify the prominent features of early Baroque architecture. As the center of Catholicism in the region, the church's initial construction dates back eight centuries. It has undergone several fires, expansions, and reconstructions, finally taking the form we see today.

The three doors of the church represent faith, hope, and forgiveness.

Entering the church, I was immediately captivated by the exquisitely decorated dome. The main altar's dome is octagonal, with murals and sculptures on each level depicting Bible stories. The church's overall color scheme is elegant white and gray, with Baroque intricate lines and fine relief随处可见. The sense of space and three-dimensionality is very strong, carrying religious colors and showcasing the designer's imagination.

It is indeed not as grand and golden as many churches in Europe, but it has its own unique charm.

It is said that this is where Mozart was baptized and where conductor Herbert von Karajan's funeral was held. The church still retains the baptismal font used for Mozart's baptism and displays the organ he played.

During his time as court organist, Mozart composed many immortal pieces. I can't imagine what a soul-stirring impact the music must have had when it first sounded. How the human soul must have been cleansed?

This city is destined to be forever intertwined with music.

On the side of the church, there is a bronze statue that looks a bit eerie at first glance.

A mere shell of a body, the soul long since抽离 and drifted somewhere unknown.

Strolling through Salzburg, this historic old town holds countless stories, but most of them are related to Mozart.

Mozart has almost become the symbol and immortal名片 of this city, bound together with Salzburg, inseparable. He bears so many光环 that other equally dazzling stars in this small town seem dimmed.

Instead, why not cast aside those huge光环, forget the story of the musical prodigy, and just walk quietly, wandering without haste? Perhaps the natural and refined charm of Salzburg will captivate you.

Salzburg, beneath the Alps, is Austria's oldest town and a sanctuary of Baroque architecture.

This city always gives a simple and peaceful feeling, with a leisurely pace perfect for walking tours. I often feel that it is excessively quiet, without hustle and bustle.

Wandering slowly along the Salzach River, the scenery is everywhere.

Street performers, pointed churches, ancient monasteries, tree-lined gardens, the white castle on the castle hill, and the sparkling river shimmering in the sunlight of the afternoon.

The city's name comes from salt mines and the castle. The beautiful Salzach River winds through, dividing the city into two parts: the new town on one side and the old town on the other.

The whole city is like a garden with its own melody, exuding a strong sense of life. Wherever you look, there is sunshine, music, and joy. This feeling is like stepping to the beat of a string quartet, with beautiful notes floating in your ears, making you light and cheerful.

The architectural style of the city is predominantly Baroque, an authentic medieval old town.

It is said that here condenses the artistic spirit of music and echoes the cheerful chorus of "Do-Re-Mi," making one unconsciously feel like they are walking into an old movie that never ends. Everyone you pass by is an indispensable actor on the stage, playing important roles in different comedies and tragedies. Occasional encounters make the story exciting, while occasional dullness reminds us that this is the true nature of life.

Head to Getreidegasse at the foot of the castle hill—the oldest and most lively shopping street in Salzburg's old town. The street is not long but narrow, flanked by tall and narrow shops. Tourists from all over the world gather here, and for a moment you might think it's uninteresting, but upon closer inspection, it has its own flavor.

The street is lined with shops displaying various local souvenirs, dazzling you with choices.

Getreidegasse is famous for its wrought-iron signs, with an artistic atmosphere everywhere.

The shops continue the commercial脉 of the Middle Ages. Under the eaves of each building, the year of construction and renovation is marked, and each has its own custom-made wrought-iron sign. These signs are in a row, classical, refined, and delicate.

Besides, the door of 9 Getreidegasse is always the busiest place in Salzburg. People from all over the world stand before the yellow-and-white building, looking up—this is Mozart's birthplace.

(nonono~~not this one, too crowded, didn't take a photo~)

In Salzburg, you can hardly miss tracing Mozart's footsteps. The products displayed in the shop windows are everywhere, all traces of this genius boy. The most worth mentioning is Mozart chocolate.

At first, I thought it was Mozart's favorite chocolate during his lifetime. Later, I learned that this chocolate was produced only to commemorate the centenary of Mozart's birth. Buying some as souvenirs is also a good choice.

Hello, Mr. Mozart~

I don't remember when I watched "The Sound of Music." In my memory, it seems like a very long time ago. Besides the carefree singing of the children and their faces full of happy smiles, many scenes have gradually faded.

But when I walked into the Mirabell Palace and saw this magnificent garden for the first time, it struck a chord in my heart, and all memories were awakened.

Isn't this the step where Maria taught the children to sing "Do-Re-Mi" in the movie?

Walking into the Mirabell Garden felt like stepping into a familiar old movie scene. Everything in front of me was so real that it felt unreal...

They sang and danced, then walked into the Rose Hill, past the Pegasus Fountain, along the tree-lined avenue, and on the gravel path of the rose garden...

These movie scenes vaguely appeared before my eyes. They happily sang and danced. At this moment, I just had to close my eyes, and the songs seemed to linger in my ears.

Speaking of Mirabell Palace, there are indeed many stories!

Besides being the filming location of "The Sound of Music," it is also the place where a six-year-old Mozart first showcased his astonishing talent on stage to the world. But the most elegant and interesting story is related to the 16th-century Archbishop Wolf Dietrich. At that time, the Archbishop violated church rules to please his mistress Salome, spending a huge sum to build a palace and garden across the Salzach River, which is now Mirabell Palace. "Mirabell" is an Italian female name meaning "amazing beauty."

The Mirabell Garden is a place that captivates at first sight. She is like a well-dressed noblewoman, displaying her most elegant posture. On the emerald green lawn, flowers outline beautiful shapes; to the east is a small rose garden, to the west a tree-lined path, in the center a fountain, surrounded by Greek and Roman sculptures, all with a strong Baroque flavor.

It seems that the gentle and affectionate Mirabell Garden has something to do with love and romance. After all, the Angel Staircase leading from the garden to the Marble Hall attracts devout men and women to register their marriages here. The Marble Hall, once the Archbishop's celebration hall, is now one of the most beautiful wedding halls in the world.

The roses in the garden are unusually beautiful; I couldn't help but take a few sentimental photos.

In Europe, such exquisite small gardens are everywhere, but I never tire of them. The flowers bathed in sunlight are incredibly gorgeous, making one think of quiet and warm beauty.

Putting aside the stories of Mirabell Palace and the familiar movie scenes, just strolling around the garden is a pleasant experience.

Of course, if you get tired, find a bench to rest for a while; it might bring you a different kind of leisure.

Before I knew it, it was time to leave.

Standing in the garden, looking up at the fortress, a flood of reluctance and attachment welled up in my heart.

The blue sky remained, white clouds drifted, and the fortress stood high, dignified and elegant, like a young soldier or an elderly man with white hair, guarding this small city.

Goodbye, Salzburg.

Goodbye, Mozart.

Goodbye, the hometown of "The Sound of Music."

Goodbye, the small city beneath the Alps.

On the train from Salzburg to Hallstatt, for the first time, I couldn't bear to close my eyes.

My finger couldn't stop pressing the shutter, wanting to capture all the沿途 scenery into my small bag.

Through the window, I could almost hear the flowing stream and the wind blowing against my face. The air was so fresh it made me intoxicated.

This train seemed to be traveling from one real fairy-tale world to another unknown fairy-tale world.

While I was still lingering on the lakeside village, the next moment, the train had already passed under the Alps, with twinkling streams.

Snow-capped mountains, lakes, countryside, wooden houses, cattle and sheep...

The novel scenery kept changing. I could feel myself getting excited like a child.

Yes, my mother too↓↓

Since we were not driving or taking a bus, we couldn't reach the town directly. After getting off the train, we needed to take a ferry for a few minutes across the lake to the town.

However, I didn't think this was bad. A few extra twists and turns seemed to make the沉淀后的回忆 more intriguing.

The small village on the lakeside, embraced by the Alps, lies between the famous Salzkammergut salt lake region. Hallstatt, with a history of thousands of years, is the oldest and most beautiful town in Austria, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Hallstatt, in ancient Celtic, means "early Iron Age." Archaeological discoveries here prove it is the birthplace of the European Iron Age. The locals still like to use wrought-iron window grilles to decorate their doorways. "Hall" comes from the ancient Celtic word for "salt," but here it refers to mountain salt, not sea salt. Thousands of years ago, the world's oldest salt mine was here, mined by the Celts, and the region prospered because of salt.

I have seen many photos of Hallstatt in spring, summer, autumn, and winter—each season beautiful.

I have imagined waking up on a spring morning full of blooming flowers, opening the window and being greeted by the fresh fragrance of flowers; the emerald green lake in summer, the continuous mountains, a few swans gracefully playing on the lake, bright sunshine, and peaceful time; the colorful autumn with red leaves and yellow trees reflected on the lake, watching the sunset leisurely; and the snowy winter, all white and pure, making me realize abruptly that this is the place where we all want to live.

In the end, I have walked through her world. Time seemed still yet flowing. I felt my inner longing for her and all the beautiful expectations, as if she too was waiting for me, like an old friend meeting by tacit agreement.

No matter the season, the long-sought paradise is right before my eyes, dreamlike yet real.

Upon arriving at the town, I didn't rush to find the legendary postcard viewpoint. Instead, I slowly walked along the path from the ferry to the main street, bought a burger to fill my stomach, rested a while under a sun umbrella, then strolled from the stream to the lake. When I reached the town's central square, the restaurants and bars were already bustling, welcoming you with open arms.

If you're not in a hurry, why not find a cozy little shop, order a cup of coffee, kick up your feet, and soak up the sun? Killing time like that is a blessing.

Walking along the lakeside path, there were many scenes worth recording, but your ultimate feeling and the tone you choose to describe her all depend on your mood at the moment.

Small shops by the street sell various creative crafts—fabric art, wood art, pottery... small and delicate, very likable. Each one seems to be related to fairy tales.

Today, this town, highly praised by travelers, welcomes tens of thousands of tourists every day. Some never stop praising it, while others lament that its past tranquility is long gone.

Good or bad, you already have your own judgment; others' opinions seem insignificant.

This most beautiful town is ultimately not a tourist attraction. Many residents live here; they are real.

While enjoying the scenery, please do not make loud noises or cause them trouble. If you are truly enchanted, hide that excitement deep in your heart.

Whether she is not what she used to be, whether she has been hyped by Chinese tourists, I believe the fairy-tale charm of this town is not determined by the number of tourists.

I have to admit,

her stunning beauty and tranquility are always discovered in some corner or at some glance.

Europeans truly love life. Their love permeates every corner of their houses, even every flower, grass, and tree.

Many wooden houses have a tree in front. Over the years, the big tree and the wooden house have become one, inseparable. The trunk leans against the wall, and the branches and leaves spread endlessly along the wooden windows, resembling a vivid living wall painting. The houses are given life by them.

There are many "swans" on the lake, like elves专属 to this town, attracting a constant stream of tourists and adding color to the emerald-like lake water.

The lake water is clear as a mirror, with the swans' reflections on the surface, the holy reflections and ripples, incredibly beautiful.

They are not shy or nervous in front of the camera, accustomed to shielding themselves from all external disturbances.

These creatures are born with an elegant temperament, confident and proud. But if you throw a piece of bread, they will instantly rush to you, competing for food—a bunch of adorable foodies, no doubt.

The summer sun is very dazzling, especially in the afternoon. The light is strong and glaring, warm on the body, but if not careful, you can get sunburned (don't ask me how I know~~~)!!!

But compared to gloomy rain, such a sunny day is very welcome, especially for someone like me who loves to show off. I just want to stubbornly sit by the lake, sunbathing and dazing (taking photos).

The town is not big; you can walk it in a few hours. But if you want to stroll slowly, it wouldn't be excessive to stay here for a month.

After all, it is particularly suitable for a slow pace, and also suitable for getting lost, because you never know what surprise you'll meet at the next corner, or what life insight a whole afternoon lying on a rocking chair might bring.

Looking up from the lake to the mountain, layers of wooden houses look like scenes from fairy tales, backed by the forest and close to the lake, always showing a gentle temperament like water.

Full of curiosity, I kept looking around, as if as soon as I opened a door, I would see the life I wanted. The freshly baked croissants were wafting their aroma, and the tempting milky fragrance could embrace me. The gramophone was playing elegant classical music. An old lady squinted and tapped the beat, with a big white cat cuddling at her feet, lazily wagging its tail. The air was filled with sweet scents.

The salt mine here is particularly famous, located on the mountain at the town entrance, still in operation and open to tourists.

It is said that besides going back to those old days through the deep tunnels excavated by miners, you can also experience the thrilling miner's slide. Fortunately, we reached the mountaintop, but unfortunately, due to time constraints, we gave up the experience in the salt mine.

Trust me, even if you're not interested in the history of Hallstatt's salt industry and the lives of salt miners, you must go up, because the overlooking view will not disappoint you.

To go up, you can choose to hike or take a cable car. The cable car is very fast, swoosh swoosh...

Arriving halfway up the mountain, looking down at the houses below, they gradually shrink in your sight, and the entire lake area comes into view.

Finally reaching the top, my mind went blank.

Looking around, the endless Alps were beginning to show their grandeur. The lake scenery and the town landscape were all in full view.

It is said that the scenery after a strenuous journey is the most beautiful and worth remembering.

At this moment, I felt an inexplicable joy welling up.

The Skywalk is an overhanging viewing platform extending outward from the mountaintop, also the best viewing point on the entire summit.

The sun was bright, the breeze gentle, the sky a mesmerizing blue. The continuous mountains and white clouds, the lake and boats—I didn't even dare to make a sound, afraid to disturb the tranquility.

That kind of tranquility, that otherworldly beauty, made me linger with one glance.

A gentle breeze brushed my face, suddenly bringing me back to my senses. Hallstatt was now beneath my feet, quietly nestled by the lakeside.

The town in the afternoon sunlight was like a fairyland. Each wooden house was utterly charming, the lake emerald green, with a small boat stirring ripples. Even my breath carried a sweet and refreshing taste.

The emotions I had cultivated during my journey began to slowly ferment now.

Flowers covered the entire mountainside, so beautiful that I couldn't resist wanting to be a small-town girl for a day.

Just picking wildflowers, lazily daydreaming.

All the time you are willing to squander is not wasted; instead, it becomes especially precious.

After descending from the salt mine, we returned to the town's streets to wander. I am always instinctively attracted to these lovely crafts.

Each shop seems to be racking their brains to make their products stand out.

Or perhaps this is just their normal life; the beautiful fairy-tale world exists only for us.

Every turn, every corner is full of surprises.

My girly heart instantly exploded; I couldn't help but want to take them all.

After looking around and taking a set of photos, I bought nothing~~~~~~

These little things are so cute, most of them made by local residents—daily necessities, decorations, ornaments... in various shapes.

To be honest, although many items seem to have no practical use upon closer inspection, their appearance wins.

The wind brushing over the lake was light, surrounded by rolling mountains. The sunlight spilled on the lake, sparkling, and for a moment I couldn't believe such a place existed.

It felt like falling into a piece of pure land, an沉浸式的 beauty.

Walking alongside the stream, I could feel how close I was to the Alps. Reaching out, I touched the cool water, refreshing.

Roadsides, gardens, fences, windows—all full of blooming flowers. Life is so beautiful; besides cherishing the present, do you have anything else to be dissatisfied with?

Following the gentle uphill slope of cobblestones, walking and walking, searching for the legendary postcard viewpoint. Along the way, I passed a church. The ossuary in the church is a highlight.

I didn't take photos for you, just because I forgot out of sheer willfulness. But this church actually means a lot to the town.

The people of Hallstatt have their own unique understanding and customs when it comes to the end of life. The cemetery is right at the church gate, with someone caring for the flowers, full of artistic sense, reminding me of the Bone Church in Kutná Hora.

It is said that the deceased can only rest here for ten years. After that, the bones are removed from the grave and placed in the bone house. Over time, thousands of skeletons have accumulated here, and this practice has been around for over a thousand years. In the ossuary, more than 600 skulls have the names of the deceased, dates of birth and death, and meaningful floral and plant patterns painted on them.

Exiting the church and walking halfway up the mountain, there is a good viewpoint.

The church behind is the town's landmark. With so many people taking photos here, it has naturally become a must-visit spot.

I thought, why not take one too? Taking advantage of the afternoon sun and the tranquil times. The air was fresh, birds sang and flowers scented. The wooden houses by the lake looked serene and graceful in the scorching sun, and time seemed to slow down.

If you want to escape the crowded masses and deeply explore the town, consider taking a boat trip on the lake. I believe the scenery from the lake center will show you a different Hallstatt.

Boat services are available from June to October. There are also electric boats and pedal boats for visitors to choose from. Don't miss it if interested.

When I stood at the "postcard viewpoint," my longing for her was finally fulfilled. The feeling was very subtle.

Right before me was frozen time; in the distance, lovely houses and the pointed church; the lake occasionally had swans gliding by, causing ripples; and further away were the outline of the mountains and the blue sky.

All these elements intertwined, not messily, but like happy notes sketched out. On the lakeside of Hallstatt, they played cheerful, brilliant, serene, unrestrained, or elegant rhythms, creating a joyful atmosphere.

The sound of the church bell echoed in my ears, making me involuntarily look at this ubiquitous landmark in the town. The Gothic pointed church, amidst the lake and mountains, was as beautiful as a painting.

Before going to Eastern Europe, I was most looking forward to staying overnight in one of the "most beautiful towns in the world." Unfortunately, accommodations here are always in high demand, and nearby rooms were basically booked out, so we could only do a day trip.

I feel regretful. When I come again, it will be to see the sunrise and sunset, and the starry sky.

The beauty of Hallstatt

lies in the scenery of the Alps, in the misty morning fog, under the roofs of varying heights, on the sparkling lake surface, in the corners full of flowers, in the windows of delicate shops, and in the peaceful and tranquil time...

Here, you don't need superb photography skills. As long as you have a pair of eyes to discover beauty and a heart to feel it, you can easily depict her beautifully.

Her beauty is everywhere.

The same angle appears in countless people's lenses, and she is always so beautiful. She is unsmiling, yet seems to be waiting for old friends who arrive as promised.

I hope your beauty remains pure, and your changes still accommodate more sincerity.

The words and photos describing her are universally beautiful, but the feeling of beauty is only within the heart.

Just like we all like to choose fitting tones for our favorite photos during post-processing. Because what the eyes see may not always be satisfactory, but the presented tones are closer to my inner feelings.

Getting on the return train to Salzburg, like when I came, I couldn't bear to close my eyes. The scenery outside the window continued to change.

Finally, it's time to say goodbye, but I always feel that something is missing...

Hallstatt, you still owe me a view in the clouds and mist.

If it really feels regrettable, then we'll meet again if fate allows.

The first encounter with Vienna was unexpectedly unspeakable.

The picturesque and romantic Vienna, the music capital Vienna, the Baroque-colored Vienna, the Vienna from the glorious days of the Austro-Hungarian Empire... Every frame I saw here should have been as beautiful as a fairy tale, shouldn't it?

But every time someone brings it up, I always say, "I guess this city and I are just not fated." From dragging my suitcase all the way from Salzburg by train to leaving, I left behind many particularly unpleasant memories.

Having experienced the arrogance of Viennese, the cold looks from café waitstaff, and sudden insults and discrimination from strangers on the street... To be honest, I don't know what this city has left for me.

They say that沉淀后的 memories are more touching. Thinking carefully, if I put those unpleasant stories aside, the beauty of Vienna seems to shine through, like an old photo touched by time, lingering before my eyes.

Turns out, I don't hate her that much after all.

It is said that this music capital is filled with elegant and cheerful melodies everywhere. After all, many musical geniuses spent years of their careers here. Sculptures of them are随处可见 in the streets.

Opera in the opera house, concertos in the Musikverein, the qin sounds of street performers, melodies from the church... So, it's almost impossible not to smell a trace of music.

Of course, besides the joyful music, there is another smell in the air of Vienna, equally unique to this city.

Yes, the smell of horse manure.

Carriages are definitely one of the most eye-catching sights on the streets of Vienna.

During those days, my eyes were filled with exquisite carriages on the streets, and the clip-clop of hooves in my ears. After hearing it so much, I got used to it; it became pleasant and crisp.

Many times, I even had illusions, wishing that time would stop in the old century, and I wouldn't want to wake up.

If you're interested, why not give it a try? Let the coachman drive you through the alleys, imagining yourself as a noble and elegant aristocrat from the past.

The carriages are everywhere, and I couldn't help but fix my gaze on the coachmen.

The coachmen were always good-looking, wearing fedora hats and waistcoats, looking very gentlemanly. They exuded a unique handsomeness.

When not serving customers, they would stop by the roadside, let the horses drink water, and rest. They had nothing else to do, so they read books, smoked, checked their phones, drank coffee, or chatted, never forgetting to solicit customers when tourists passed by.

Unfortunately, I missed the Strahov Monastery Library in Prague, so I was even more looking forward to seeing the Austrian National Library.

Located in the Hofburg Palace in the center of old Vienna, the Austrian National Library is one of the five largest libraries in the world. It is the oldest library in Austria, once the royal library, and a treasure trove of the former glory of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. It has a history of over 400 years.

The library is divided into a reading area and a visiting area. General tourists access the visiting area, which requires a ticket to enter.

The moment I pushed open the door, I felt as if I had entered another fantastical magical world.

The main body of the library is a typical Baroque building. The interior of the hall is extremely luxurious, full of exquisite sculptures and murals. Especially the dome and side corridor murals are lifelike and radiant, blending into the carved bookcases embedded in the walls.

Tall bookshelves, marble pillars, huge globes, and manuscripts, papyri, albums, and maps not limited to traditional books... Standing in front of any bookcase or display case, you can almost smell the scent of old books.

In the hall, bookcases reaching the ceiling surrounded me, with nearly 200,000 books from different eras and categories densely arranged on antique brown wooden shelves, full of densely packed gold-tooled ancient rare books.

Many books placed high up require a ladder to access.

Sunlight streamed in through the eight lattice windows on the dome, adding a touch of mystery.

The emperors of the Habsburg dynasty were all fond of reading. In the center of the hall stands a statue of Emperor Charles VI.

As the founder of this library, he did not believe in readers who scribble on books and decided to open the royal library for public use. However, he also refused to admit "the illiterate, servants, idlers, braggarts, and those who like to watch the excitement."

The ancient library is both magnificent and charming.

I believe the震撼 it brings us is not only from the architecture itself and the vast collection but also from people's reverence for knowledge and the efforts to preserve cultural heritage.

Arriving at the Sisi Museum at 5:30, I hurried to the entrance only to be told it was about to close.

Well, come back tomorrow morning. So I just wandered around the Hofburg Palace.

The Hofburg Palace, located in the center of Vienna, was once the winter palace of the Habsburg emperors of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Now it is the office of the President of Austria.

It was the royal residence until 1918. In the 13th century, it was a castle. After numerous renovations and expansions, as the family's power and territory grew, the castle expanded into the massive complex we see today, with 18 buildings, 54 exits, 19 courtyards, and 2,500 rooms, housing over twenty world-class collections.

The Habsburg family was the longest-ruling and most extensive royal family in European history, and the Hofburg Palace is a witness to various European architectural styles. Whether Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, Rococo, or Neoclassical, the Hofburg Palace brings them all together. The solemn palace gates, majestic palaces, and exquisite sculptures form this classical, elegant, and artistically beautiful palace, earning it the title "city within a city."

Just quietly looking at its magnificent exterior was enough to make me marvel.

Outside the Hofburg Palace, there are many ticket sellers selling tickets for performances at the Opera House and the Musikverein. They are dressed impressively, but I'm not sure if they are official channels. If interested, it's recommended to be cautious.

I really love the clip-clop of hooves in this city. It gives a feeling of time intertwining, like the trams in Budapest. These things always have more stories than other means of transportation.

Times are developing rapidly. Whether carriages are truly needed by locals or exist only for tourists, I think that's not worth arguing. What matters is that the city still retains a place for them, reminding those who live here or pass through that this is Vienna.

Passing through the Hofburg Palace, there are two bronze statues in Heldenplatz. It is said they commemorate Prince Eugene, who was invincible in the war against the Turks, and Archduke Karl, who successfully resisted Napoleon.

Going to Stadtpark was just by chance. Because I had bought tickets for a Mozart concert at the Musikverein in the evening, I didn't want to rush, so I had some time to wander around nearby. Unexpectedly, I had a rare chance to experience another side of the Viennese.

Stadtpark is the first park in Vienna. It's not a must-visit attraction, but it's worth stopping by. For locals, it's probably a place for leisure and entertainment; for tourists from afar, it's where most of Vienna's monuments and sculptures are gathered.

The most famous is definitely the gilded bronze statue of Johann Strauss II, the Waltz King. Others include classical music master Schubert, operetta composer Franz Lehár, Robert Stolz, etc.

I remember that afternoon specially because in the midst of the rushed journey, I paused for a moment, living like a local in the simplest way, just enjoying the current sunshine and the birdsong and flowers.

The park was quiet and cozy. I found a bench to sit and rest. On the lawn, some were lying reading, others chatting and laughing, some dozing off. A leisurely man leaned in a corner reading a newspaper. Lovers snuggled and chatted sweetly. Elderly sat together. A girl lay under a tree gazing at the sky...

Everyone was enjoying their present moment. The flower shop at the corner emitted waves of fragrance. Life is elsewhere; life is so beautiful.

The surprise of travel is that often you don't know who you'll meet or what will happen next. Good or bad, it's probably another experience.

Just like I traveled thousands of miles to see the scenery, working hard every day, I didn't expect to slow down here. After several unpleasant experiences in Vienna, my terrible impression of the city was suddenly dispelled by the smile and action of a little girl.

There are always endless stories in travel. Those I haven't said and the ellipses after the text, let them continue in time...

Arriving at the music capital, attending a high-class concert or watching an opera is something to look forward to.

Vienna has two major theaters: the State Opera, known as the "world center of opera," and the Musikverein, known as the "music sanctuary."

People who don't understand regard the legendary Musikverein as a music sanctuary, and indeed, it has a big reputation in China. It is the permanent venue for the Vienna Philharmonic and also hosts the annual New Year's Concert. However, the Musikverein, deified by Chinese people, is not as professional as imagined; as long as you have money, you can perform on its stage. In comparison, the State Opera, not far away, is no less in performance quality and artistic festival reputation. Unfortunately, I didn't buy tickets in advance, so I settled for the Mozart concert at the Musikverein.

The Musikverein was built on land specially designated by Austrian Emperor Franz Joseph I in 1863. It has a history of over 150 years. Putting aside professionalism and the fact that it's not the Philharmonic, I still felt it would be a unique experience to hear a concert here.

The appearance of the Musikverein may differ from what you imagine—it isn't golden and magnificent. You might not even notice it's any different from other buildings when passing by.

Entering the hall, I saw a different kind of classical elegance: exquisite murals, gorgeous chandeliers, giving a power to calm down. Before the music even started, I felt as if I could hear notes floating in the hall.

The entire performance lasted over two hours. Photography was not allowed throughout. The orchestra played mostly well-known pieces like "The Magic Flute," "The Blue Danube," "Hungarian March," "Radetzky March," etc. Even without professional musical knowledge or understanding nothing, it was worth it just to soak in the atmosphere.

Before leaving, I took a "been there" photo~~~~~

After hearing many fairy tales, beyond them, my first real understanding of a princess came from Sisi.

Before the trip, I rewatched "Sissi." This classic occupied the most beautiful part of my childhood memories.

Noble birth, gorgeous costumes, Rococo palaces, angelic smiles, love at first sight with Franz, resistance to court rules... Naturally romantic and free, she once tried to yield for her husband, shuttling between Austria and Hungary. After losing her only son, she fell into growing pain, becoming introverted, unsociable, and always wearing black. Eventually, she indulged in writing melancholy lyric poetry, spending more time traveling, constantly seeking a place where she could live without restraint.

My love for Sisi is sincere.

Fortunatley, with obsession, following her footsteps from Vienna to Budapest in Hungary, I also hope to keep moving.

Today, we came to the place closely related to Sisi—Schönbrunn Palace.

This was once the summer palace of the Habsburg dynasty and the residence of Sisi and Franz, with a long history. It is said that the design scale and luxury of Schönbrunn Palace rivaled the Palace of Versailles in Paris, but due to limited finances, the original design was not fully realized. It is the second largest palace in Europe after Versailles.

It is said that after seeing the Forbidden City in China, you'll never think any other palace can match its grandeur.

But this yellow building with 1,441 rooms was more charming than I imagined—not grandiose, but with a touch of elegance in its simplicity.

Speaking of Sisi's husband, Franz Joseph I was the most legendary tragic emperor of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. As a responsible emperor, he worked over 12 hours a day, was fluent in eight languages, and had a beautiful queen. Born in Schönbrunn, he loved living here the most until in 1916, Franz ended his life journey in Schönbrunn, feeling that life was a dream. Not only did he fail to save the declining empire, but he also failed to save his marriage.

Early in the morning, outside Schönbrunn Palace, a large number of tour groups had gathered, waiting to visit. Crowds of tourists, I flowed into the hall with the wave. What awaited us were the 40 rooms open to the public. After queuing in the Fast Lane for security check, I collected a Chinese audio guide, entered the exhibition halls, and pressed the play button for each room number to hear detailed introductions.

However, photography was not allowed indoors. Not knowing this, I enthusiastically raised my camera to capture the beauty of the imperial city, but was immediately stopped by staff... Embarrassing... This photo is the only one I kept.

Schönbrunn Palace tickets come in standard (22 rooms), deluxe (40 rooms), and all-inclusive (40 rooms, maze, orangery, private garden, Gloriette).

I bought the all-inclusive ticket in advance, wanting to fully experience the震撼 of the Habsburg summer palace.

After visiting those 40 rooms, I left..........................

Don't ask me why~~

I~~need to be alone~~

Vienna has two famous palaces. Besides the well-known Schönbrunn, there is another with a similar name: Belvedere Palace. I didn't do much research before going, assuming it was also related to Sisi like Schönbrunn.

Nonono,

it has nothing to do with Sisi, and unlike other palaces, its owner was not an emperor but a military commander, a pivotal figure in Austrian history: Prince Eugene. He served three Habsburg emperors and made indelible contributions to establishing the Habsburg empire as a global one.

Belvedere Palace, also translated as "Beautiful View Palace," its Latin name means "beautiful view." The entire palace is in Baroque style, noble and elegant.

Due to the sloping terrain, the courtyard at the upper level is called "Upper Belvedere," featuring fountains, waterfalls, Baroque sculptures, and a grand iron gate. The palace extending down is naturally called "Lower Belvedere."

It is said that Belvedere Palace is also the Austrian National Gallery, one of the world's most important art collections. The Upper Belvedere houses the 19th- and 20th-century art galleries, while the Lower Belvedere houses medieval art and Baroque art.

Connecting the Upper and Lower Belvedere is a magnificent garden.

Symmetrical steps and tall trees, axial fountains surrounded by greenery. Standing at the Upper Belvedere and looking far, the entire garden and the distant cityscape are in full view. It must be a pleasant thing to take a leisurely stroll here.

Unfortunately, the weather didn't cooperate. That day suddenly turned cold, and I was shivering, so I had to quickly escape.

Because I had arrived late at the Sisi Museum the previous day, after leaving Belvedere, I quickly took the subway back to Hofburg.

The reason I missed the private garden of Schönbrunn was probably because I was too eager to get closer to Sisi's life.

As Queen of Austria-Hungary, Elisabeth's life was highly watched. She grew from a carefree girl living in Bavaria to a beloved Queen of Austria, only to be tragically assassinated.

The Sisi Museum was specially established to commemorate the 150th wedding anniversary of Emperor Franz Joseph I and Queen Elisabeth. Six exhibition halls display a large number of Sisi's personal belongings.

You can get closer to the life of this beautiful queen, exploring her traces. Especially her rebellion against court etiquette, her crazy pursuit of beauty and slimming, her extreme enthusiasm for sports, and her obsession with classical poetry.

To be honest, there are many museums in Europe. Without a professional tour guide, it is really necessary to learn and understand history inside. Don't forget to get a Chinese audio guide.

Similarly, photography is not allowed inside, so this is the only photo I took before the visit.

Sisi's love for beauty is documented in history. She had a nearly obsessive perfectionism and strict requirements for herself. The museum records everything about her. Including her living room, famous portrait paintings, replicas of the dress she wore at the pre-wedding party, beauty secrets, jewelry, makeup bag, medicine box, morning robe, parasol, folding fan, gloves, etc.

It is said that to keep her body straight, she never used a pillow while sleeping. She also had a fully equipped gym.

At the same time, her efforts, like an inspiring story, influence ladies who love beauty.

The beauty of Vienna condenses in the ubiquitous musical atmosphere and elegant romantic bones. But cafés are another beautiful existence for this city.

It is said that Viennese people are either in a café or on their way to one.

Actually, this sentence describes the Austrian poet and writer Peter Altenberg, and the café referred to is Café Central.

It's about a 10-minute walk from the Hofburg Palace. Besides, my Sisi complex kept haunting me—why not go?

Café Central, with a history of over a century, was labeled as "the world's coffee capital" and "the most humanistic" in the 19th century because many famous writers, musicians, and politicians loved to stop by. Naturally, it has its own internet celebrity appeal.

Just queuing took half an hour~~

It is said that Altenberg was the most loyal guest here. Except for sleeping, he spent most of his time here in his later years. He lingered here and wrote many enduring poems.

Café Central opened in 1876, converted from a duke's residence. Its exterior looks ordinary, but the interior is luxurious and elegant, full of courtly atmosphere.

The high Gothic vaulted ceiling, streamlined dome, thick marble pillars, paired with simple European chandeliers and vintage furniture. Soft light shines into every corner, giving off a strong literary and classical vibe, warm and cozy.

The cakes and desserts in the showcase were tempting, various kinds, making me want to order every type. If you want something, note the number at the counter and tell the waiter when seated.

The waiters wore neat uniforms and bow ties, exuding the elegance of Viennese.

Unfortunately, the service attitude was unsatisfactory—lacking kindness, more aloof. From ordering to paying, several times the waiter's look made me uncomfortable. I indicated many times for the bill, but the waiter was very dismissive.

I had looked forward to enjoying a leisurely afternoon tea at the long-dreamed-of century-old café, wasting time willfully. Unexpectedly, unpleasant stories frequently appeared in my first encounter with this city, making me want to love her but instinctively repel.

Vienna's last stop: entering the place of faith—St. Stephen's Cathedral.

It stands in the center of the old town, its towering Gothic spire piercing the sky, very conspicuous. Known as the "heart of Vienna," Austria's most important Gothic building has long become the city's symbol.

Having endured over eight centuries, like many churches in European history, it has experienced repeated disasters and continuous renovations and expansions, blending different styles from various periods. Now it presents a mixed architectural style to the world.

The church is free to enter, except for an additional fee to climb the tower.

The tall Gothic columns and elliptical dome offer a different perspective, captivating every visitor with its exquisite carvings and the sacred atmosphere created inside.

Sunlight streamed through the stained glass windows, and the dim lights in the solemn church held a touch of mystery.

The Bible stories, the lifelike carvings, and the Baroque altar—under the constant interplay of light and shadow, accompanied by melodious music, everything was so clear and transparent.

The church echoed with deep sacred music and heavenly chants.

I softened my steps, standing in a corner to quietly admire. If the震撼 of the church's architecture itself was my most direct feeling, then the part from faith was another insight.

Facing the thousands of tourists flocking in daily, the kneeling believers seemed unfazed. What struck me was their tolerance—they did not shut the door on anyone.

Although I am not a believer, I could feel the power of faith.

The wick burned in the candle cup, the halo of candlelight flickering and swaying in the air.

Dots of light, confusing.

Those restless souls finally find redemption here.

For devout believers, faith brings them certainty and peace.

Strolling through Vienna, every corner of this city is decorated with architecture and art from various periods and styles—the well-preserved old town, elegant Baroque, Romanesque, Gothic, and Renaissance styles. Churches, palaces, opera houses, concert halls, cafés—each one is a work of art.

This city is not big, the streets narrow, the cobblestones winding. It remains that charming medieval tone. Moving notes linger over the Danube River. I felt as if I had embarked on a journey to the glorious era of the Austro-Hungarian Empire.

This feeling has been with me for a long time.

[Intercity Transportation—European Rail:]

If you don't plan to rent a car and drive, especially if traveling to multiple European countries, European rail is a very convenient mode of transport. You must choose it.

The European railway network is extremely developed, with many stations and frequent trains. The stations cover various cities and towns. Schengen countries in Europe can travel freely among them. It is really convenient.

[About Ticket Purchase:]

1. Official website purchase: Buying online is convenient, and early booking usually gets discounts. If you're not confident in operating or find it troublesome, you can also choose to have an agency help you purchase.

2. On-site purchase at train stations: For those who like spontaneous travel and don't want to fix their itinerary early, you can buy tickets at the station. Stations have self-service ticket machines and manual windows.

[About Ticket Selection:]

Of course, besides single tickets, you have other options. If you need to take trains many times during your trip or travel between different cities, the Eurail Pass is really suitable.

Eurail Pass official website: https://www.eurail.com/

Below I will provide a detailed introduction:

1. One Country Pass: Valid for rail travel within a single country, valid for 1 month.

2. Select Pass: Valid for 2, 3, or 4 adjacent countries in the Eurail program, valid for 2 months.

3. Global Pass: Valid in all 28 Eurail member countries.

[Key Points! Key Points! Mark this:]

1. Activation: The pass holder must activate it before first use!! You can choose to activate in advance, or if uncertain about travel dates, activate at the ticket counter of the local train station (with the relevant pass and passport documents). Station staff will fill in the passport number and date, stamp the activation, and it's ready to use. Therefore, do not write or mark anything on the pass beforehand.

2. Usage: If you purchase a consecutive pass, it automatically expires from the activation date until the validity ends. No need to fill in anything. If you purchase a flexible pass, you need to write the daily date in the date space with a pen before each day's travel, and so on until the validity is used up.

Consecutive pass: Continuous use for a set number of days; valid for unlimited travel on consecutive days. E.g., a 3-day consecutive pass activated on the 1st of the month allows travel on the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd.

Flexible pass: Can be used intermittently or continuously within the validity period. E.g., a 5-day pass valid for 1 month; after activation on the 1st, you can use it on the 3rd, 4th, 7th, 12th, and 30th of that month.

3. Seat reservations: European train tickets come in two types: compulsory seat reservation and non-compulsory. Most high-speed, international, and night trains require advance seat reservations, while most regional trains don't. Just board with your pass and sit anywhere.

4. European train stations are generally open. Just check the platform information on the station screen and head directly to the platform with your luggage. In most cases, you board directly, and a conductor checks tickets on the train. Occasionally, tickets are checked before boarding. If transferring, confirm platform information for the connecting train in advance. Also, check the displays inside the carriage for station information.

5. Communication is very important when abroad! If in any doubt, immediately consult station staff or other passengers to avoid boarding the wrong train or missing your stop.

6. Reminder again: Using an unactivated pass during travel may result in paying the full fare and a high fine. Also, dates cannot be altered, and the ticket must be carried with you at all times. On this trip, we took Eurail four times: Salzburg-Hallstatt round trip, Salzburg-Vienna, Vienna-Budapest. Without exception, a conductor checked tickets on every train. So you should understand how important this is!!!!

[Vienna Transportation:]

Vienna's public transport system is also very developed, with subways, buses, trams, and light rail. However, most attractions are accessible by subway plus walking. In Vienna, I mostly relied on subway and walking; I didn't experience other modes, so I won't elaborate further.

The city has 5 subway lines: U1, U2, U3, U4, U6. The entrances are uniformly marked with "U."

Vienna transport tickets:

Common tickets include:

Single ticket (€2.2): Transferable, valid for all transport.

24-hour ticket (€7.6), 48-hour ticket (€13.3), 72-hour ticket (€16.5): Stamp on first use; unlimited rides within valid time.

Purchase location: Self-service ticket machines at subway stations.

(1) Vienna's entrances are mostly unguarded, and the gates are open. During my 2-day stay, my ticket was checked only once. So buying tickets relies on self-discipline. If caught evading, the fine is severe, and personal credit is affected.

(2) Again: Remember to stamp the ticket! Stamp the ticket!!

[Hallstatt and Salzburg Transportation:]

Basically, all three places are covered on foot.

[Salzburg ↔ Hallstatt, Salzburg → Vienna, Vienna → Budapest:]

We took Eurail four times on this trip.

1. Villa Carlton:

Located in Salzburg, Villa Carlton was my most satisfying hotel on this trip!!

Because we had to go to Hallstatt and Vienna, being close to the train station was very important. This hotel's location is great.

About 15 minutes' walk to the train station, 5 minutes to Mirabell Palace, about 10 minutes to the old town. All attractions were within walking distance. There was also a nearby Chinese self-service restaurant—Asia Kitchen.

The room facilities were great, with a nice design. The bathroom was the largest, cleanest, and most upscale of the entire trip. Our room was a top-floor attic, so relatively small. My mother's room was in the side building, with separate living room and bedroom!!

Finally, the hotel breakfast. Their cereal and croissants were super delicious~~

2. Hotel Continental:

Stayed 2 nights in Vienna. Nothing special to say about this hotel. Facilities were average, rooms outdated, especially the bathroom.

The biggest blessing was its great location, in the bustling city center commercial street. U3 subway was right outside, so you could go anywhere by subway.

Although all are EU countries, these three countries use different currencies, but Euro is universally accepted.

I suggest exchanging some Euros in China first. Czech and Hungarian currencies can also be withdrawn from local ATMs, but never exchange Euros locally—the fees are very high.

Czech Republic: Czech Koruna CZK (1 CZK ≈ 0.3 CNY)

Austria: Euro € (1 € ≈ 7.8 CNY)

Hungary: Forint Ft (1 Ft ≈ 0.023 CNY)

The official language of Czech Republic is Czech, Austria is German, Hungary is Hungarian, but English is widely understood. Sufficient for travel.

The time difference between Czech Republic, Austria, Hungary and China is 7 hours, 6 hours in summer. (9:00 Beijing time = 2:00 local time in winter, 3:00 in summer)

European summer days are long; sunrise early, sunset after 9 PM, fully dark around 10 PM. So you have relatively more travel time.

3 methods: rent portable WiFi, buy European SIM card, or enable international roaming. Depending on needs and budget, you can compare.

5. Season/Climate:

Eastern Europe generally has four distinct seasons. Summer is sunny, autumn colorful, winter cold and snowy. The highest temperatures are in July and August, also the peak tourist season with many visitors.

Voltage is 230V, use a round-pin German adapter.

7. Common Medicines:

I won't elaborate on the usual packing list, but common medicines must be mentioned separately!!! (Probably because there were many unexpected situations this time.)

I suggest bringing more common medicines when traveling abroad. Getting sick far from home and needing to buy medicine or see a doctor is troublesome. Especially in Europe, pharmacy medicines are mild, and antibiotics require a doctor's prescription. So please bring various medicines (anti-inflammatory, cold medicine, stomach medicine, motion sickness medicine...), even if you don't end up using them, just in case.

If you get sick and need a pharmacy, look for signs with "Pharmacy" and a "+" symbol. Don't panic; explain your condition to the pharmacy staff; they will patiently recommend suitable medicines. However, the medicines there are mild and slow-acting. If not serious, take them on time, keep a good mood, drink plenty of water, and eat fruits high in vitamin C.

8. Safety:

Overall safety in Eastern Europe is fine, but I had heard about frequent theft and scams there, so I made some preparations. Fortunately, nothing bad happened. I can share with you:

(1) Keep your bag secure, especially in crowded places (subway, bus, tram, old town square, under the Astronomical Clock, etc.).

(2) Do not carry large amounts of cash.

(3) I heard of criminals pretending to be police, asking for passports and other checks. I suggest printing some passport copies before departure. If something similar happens, don't panic; show them the copy first, not the original.

9. Entry Preparation:

I suggest printing copies of flight itineraries, hotel confirmations, and travel itinerary, carry them with you (if traveling with others, one copy per person) for entry. Not all immigration officers will check or ask questions, but it's better to be prepared. Especially for our itinerary—Czech visa but entering from Paris—so definitely asked. Don't panic; answer truthfully or directly show them all the documents.

10. Photography Equipment:

SONY A7R2, 24-70, F4

Post-processing: Lightroom + Snapseed + VSCO

11. Finally: Bring your smile and manners, and travel happily!

The travelogue of my Eastern Europe trip is fully updated. Click the link below for Czech and Hungary↓↓↓ For detailed Schengen visa application and unmissable food introductions, also covered in the travelogue below↓↓↓

Fate in Prague｜Leave Memories for Budapest

https://you.ctrip.com/travels/prague822/3937834.html?isAuthor=true

This travelogue is complete. Thank you for reading, love you.

If you have any questions, leave a comment below or send me a private message.

Travelogue Directory:

1. Salzburg｜The Small City Under the Alps

2. The Hometown of "The Sound of Music"｜Mozart Everywhere

3. Hallstatt｜You Owe Me a View in the Clouds and Mist

4. Duet of Dancing Notes｜The Glory of the Habsburg Dynasty

5. Sisi's Obsession｜The Second Face of Vienna

6. Itinerary

7. Transportation