The city goes by many names. Some call it “The Stage of the World;” others, the “Golden City of High Baroque,” and still others refer to it as the “Small Paradise.” Salzburg lies on the fringe of the Alp Mountain Range at the directional crossroads of Europe. Only about six percent of Austria’s population lives in Salzburg, but it is a central hub for arts, culture, education and tourism.
Out And About In Magnificent Salzburg. Take music classes, then visit the spots where Julie Andrews sang in The Sound of Music, or see the birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. Its character and rich culture make Salzburg an excellent location for study abroad. Salzburg is relatively small and new compared to other Austrian cities, but it still manages to offer both quality and quantity when it comes to attractions.
Mountaineering and biking are the most popular summer tourist activities. Pick between more leisurely treks along the lower slopes or go for a higher alpine adventure in the Hohe Tauern National Park. The park includes Austria’s tallest peak and one of the highest peaks of the Alps, the Grossglockner. A beautiful drive takes you up from the base of the mountain and many beautiful hiking and biking trails stem from the area. Your adventure can include mountain villages and a Gothic pilgrimage church.
Make sure to hike from the small village of Krimml to the highest waterfalls of Central Europe. Krimml Falls plunges for 1,200 feet from a glacial creek, across three different tiers and into the valley below. All this has the Alps as a breathtaking backdrop.
Birthplace Of Culture. Although there is an abundance of fun outdoor activities like mountaineering, cycling, skiing, and water sports in Salzburg, the city is best known for its cultural soul. Festivals and music thrive in the homeland of Mozart.
The Salzburg Festival, held in the summer, offers operas, concerts and drama performances. There is an annual performance in Cathedral Square of the mystery play Jedermann (Everyman). Many plays there have a painted scene or curtain for a background, but this one is set in front of the elegant white stone walls and aqua domes of the Salzburg Cathedral. Known as the Baroque Jewel, construction began on this cathedral in 774 and it is one of Austria’s most important architectural sites.
The cathedral is located in the “Old Town” district, or Altstadt. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the charm of the area is overwhelming. The quaint streets are lined with historic buildings and unique shops. The cliffs of Mönchsberg Mountain and the Hohensalzburg Castle overlook the town.
A Refined Place For Studying Abroad. Salzburg has a long-term reputation as an outstanding center for education and training. The reputation remains strong with the many study abroad programs offered in all sorts of areas.
If you have interest in the tourism industry or hotel management, there is a great study program in Salzburg, located at the Institute of Tourism and Hotel Management. For years, it has been sending its graduates on to leading positions in the hospitality industry. This course provides housing and the possibility of a three-month internship, so participants can learn their trade in a beautiful and thriving location.
The American Institute for Foreign Studies (AIFS) Study Abroad in Salzburg program allows students to live as a member of an Austrian family, eat typical dishes, and study at the world-renowned University of Salzburg. The program is perfect for anyone hoping to improve their German or start from scratch. But, since classes are offered in both English and basic German, it is completely up to the individual. The program includes a two-week language immersion class and plenty of excursions.
Bowling Green State University offers an Academic Year in Salzburg course. Classes are taught in German and cover a huge range of subjects. Students live in dormitories with meal plan options. The cost of the program includes much of the expenses for trips to Berlin and Vienna and participation in festivals. There are options for both undergraduate and graduate programs.
Search GoAbroad for many more semester, year, or summer opportunities for study abroad programs in Salzburg. You can find everything from ballet workshops to political studies programs.
Fast Facts About Salzburg
Population: 148,521
Claim To Fame: Birthplace of Mozart; site of Sound of Music filming
Don’t Miss: Old Town, Salzburg Cathedral, Hohensalzburg Castle, Mountain Treks