Zachary Gaber

The Imperial Treasury is simply spectacular and is a must see for anyone in Vienna with even a slight interest in history. For me the highlight was the complete coronation regalia of the Holy Roman Emperor - everything from the crown to the mantle to the hose and slippers. They even had the collection of holy relics (including the supposed Spear of Destiny!) used to sanctify the coronations. But the other highlights are almost as amazing from the crown of the Austrian Emperors, the staggeringly grand ewer and basin used to baptise Habsburg infants, to a vessel for unguent carved out of a single enormous piece of emerald. Definitely book in advance - it wasn't too crowded when I went but I think this place is likely to run out of spaces in more busy times of year and you definitely don't want to miss out on this unique collection of treasures.

A lovely gothic church with quite a unique feel. It has the classic Gothic shape (the vaulted ceiling, the pointed arches, etc) but everything has been plastered over rather than the usual bare stone which gives everything a smooth feel which is quite striking. You won't need long to visit but you will have a wonderful experience inside this church.

The Franziskanerkirche is a small but lovely church near Salzburg's cathedral. Most notable is the glorious gothic choir. The austere columns and vaulted ceiling are magnificent and the more ornate, Baroque (I think) chapels create a curious counterpoint. It's just off one of the squares around the cathedral so you can just pop in without needing to go out of your way.

The Annakirche is a small church with a glorious rainbow palette of stone, fresco, and gold on its interior. It was completely empty when I visited; it seems to be a bit off the main tourist path which is a shame as it truly is marvellous. Definitely take the time to appreciate the chapels, sit and experience the overall feel. It's a good place to rest and think on an otherwise rushed holiday.

One of the highlights of Salzburg, the cathedral is glorious although not quite in the highest tier of Catholic cathedrals. Never the less, if you're in Salzburg there is absolutely no excuse not to visit and spend the better part of an hour taking in the neoclassical splendour. The line for entry can get rather long - I popped into the nearby Franziskanerkirche for a while and came back a half hour later and it was shorter. Still, I doubt you're going to get in without some line.