The Glöckler tradition has its roots in Austria’s scenic Salzkammergut Lake District. Representing benevolent spirits, the Glöckler are said to drive away the darkness and bitter cold of winter. As they visit homes and farms, they run in rhythmic circles to symbolize the natural cycle of the seasons and the long-awaited return of daylight.
One of the most common questions I get from guests on my tours is: “Where do you go on your day off?” It’s a fair question. After all, I spend my workdays guiding visitors through Salzburg’s historic old town, the Lake District, Hallstatt, and even up to the Eagle’s Nest. While these places are postcard-perfect (and I genuinely love showing them to others), they’re also buzzing with tourists nearly all year round.
Spring has arrived, bringing with it a burst of blossoms and fragrances. My passion for photography has been rekindled and I've decided to focus on capturing the beauty of flowers. Over the past few years, I've collected quite a few good photos of flowers. I'll share them here and add them to this post on my blog about Salzburg periodically.
After a busy tourist season in Salzburg, it's time to take a break from work and change the environment. Italy, for me, is the number one country in terms of vacations, like my second home. No matter what part of the country you find yourself in, it will always be beautiful, delicious, warm and different.
The name of Salzburg's main street is Getreidegasse, which means Grain Lane or Grain Alley. However, the name's origin has nothing to do with grain, despite a grain market and many breweries nearby.
Silent Night – Salzburg’s Timeless Christmas Carol
Today, countless Christmas songs fill the air, most written in the 20th century and popularized by modern pop culture. Yet a few beloved melodies have much deeper roots, among them is one of the most cherished of all: Silent Night, Holy Night. Though sung around the world on Christmas Eve, many are unaware that this gentle hymn originated near Salzburg, Austria.
Christmas celebrations end on December 26. However, the Christmas market on the Residenzplatz and Domplatz keeps working until January 1. From the 27th, stalls with traditional New Year's symbols appear on the city's streets.
I love the pre-Christmas season. No other time of year offers so many festivities and cultural events. On November 20, local politicians turn on the lights of the city's main Christmas tree on the Residenzplatz, kicking off six weeks of Christmas markets.
The Salzkammergut lake district is one of Austria’s most traditional regions, rich in authentic customs and festive celebrations. Among its highlights is the Narcissus Festival in Bad Aussee, the country’s largest and most colorful flower event. Held every year in late May or early June, this four-day festival attracts thousands of visitors to the Ausseerland–Salzkammergut area, just 90 km from Salzburg.
Easter and Christmas are two of the most significant Christian feasts despite their pagan roots.
During the Middle Ages, Salzburg’s urban population struggled with a severe shortage of clean drinking water. While wealthy citizens often drank fermented beverages such as beer and wine, the poorer population depended almost entirely on fresh water sources.
The Village Fucking was renamed (posted in 2020)
The residents of the small village of Fucking in Upper Austria have become fed up with the overwhelming popularity and bizarre tourists.
I believe that we travel the world not only for visual experiences but also for unique gastronomic encounters. Salzburg and its surroundings have several restaurants where fine cuisine enthusiasts go, considering sightseeing as a secondary goal. One of these establishments is situated in the town of Werfen, which is about 50 kilometers (30 miles) away from Salzburg.
Austria has relatively low fish consumption. Statistics show that Austrians consume 90 kilograms of red meat annually, while they consume only 8 kilograms of fish. Additionally, of the almost 70,000 tons of annual fish consumption in Austria, only 3,800 tons are produced domestically, as the country lacks access to the sea.
Butcher is one of the oldest and respected professions that involves working with the most desired food. The tools used by butchers, such as knives and cleavers, have made them intimidating figures throughout history. Therefore, they gained the most privileges, joined guilds, and had their own banners.
Salzburg, Austria, is renowned for its centuries-old brewing traditions. While the southern and eastern regions thrive in winemaking thanks to favorable grape-growing conditions, northern and western Austria, especially Salzburg, is famous for its rich beer culture. Salzburg boasts dozens of breweries, but only a few wineries, making it a must-visit destination for beer lovers.
Experience the best of Innsbruck and the Tyrolean Alps with a full-day minivan tour from Salzburg. Visit Swarovski Crystal World, explore medieval towns, and see castles and fortresses with your group of up to 8 people. SALZBURG TOUR GUIDE - Eugene +436508236890
Explore the stunning Lake District of Salzburg on a private tour from Salzburg to Hallstatt. I will be your guide, showing you historical and natural landmarks, sharing traditions, and providing insight into life in Austria. You'll also have the opportunity to capture the beauty of the Alps with fantastic photo stops.
Book your Salzburg tours directly with me for the best local rate. Skip middleman markups!
★ Check my 5-Star Google ReviewsNote: As a private guide, I offer personal pick-up. My meeting point is Mirabellplatz (in front of the Mirabell Palace), not a ticket counter.
5020 Salzburg, AUSTRIA
Tel: +43 650 82 36 890 (Whatsapp/Viber)
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Eugene Gumennikov
