YOU MIGHT KNOW the Austrian city of Salzburg as the birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, one of the most talented and famous musicians to ever grace the planet. You might know it as the filming location of hit musical film The Sound of Music, too. But what you might not know about Salzburg is that come summertime, it becomes a must-visit cultural hub for the music lovers during the Salzburg Festival.

An acclaimed event that's known for its exceptional musical quality, the festival transforms the city into a buzzing centre for the classical music elite each year. From top-notch concerts with the biggest stars in classical music to opera and theatre shows, this is absolutely unmissable. And with 250,000 culture lovers descending on the city for the event, good times are guaranteed.

What's more, there's never been a more exciting time to visit than 2018. Why? This year, the city celebrates the 200th anniversary of the famous Christmas carol 'Silent Night' and the 110th birthday of famous conductor Herbert von Karajan, and the festival itself is upping the ante, with it due to celebrate its centennial in 2020.

The Salzburg Card provides free admission to all sights and museums in Salzburg

Aside from the music, Salzburg is packed with tradition, too – and whether that's soaring Catholic architecture, great food or the city’s 600-year-old brewing history across 11 breweries, you'll find plenty to chew over while you're away from the concert halls. The city's gorgeous Baroque centre is home to more than 50 grand churches, and surrounded by beautiful rolling mountains, both of which give the whole place a nostalgic feel: especially when you're sitting out drinking in a traditional beer garden like the one at Augustine Brewery in Kloster Mülln, where you can collect beer fresh from the wooden barrel. But don’t be fooled into believing that everything is old-school here. Salzburg is home to a buzzing craft beer scene that places an emphasis on innovation and quality.

The best way to see the city is with the Salzburg Card: your key to the city, the card provides free admission to all sights and museums in Salzburg – including the famous Domquartier – as well as serving as your public transport ticket for the during of your stay. So what are you waiting for? Concerts, festivals, museums, attractions and amazing culinary delights all await you in this city of music. And its about time you paid it all a visit.

For more information on holidays to Salzburg, head to salzburg.info