Karen Asp attends Innsbruck's renowned Christmas market and discovers some of the city's other special gifts for tourists.

VIENNA - Arriving in Austria's capital at Christmas is like stepping into the pages of a fairytale.

On a warm, sunny July morning, a parade of foodies were plodding dauntlessly — albeit a bit breathlessly — past a glacial stream and flower-strewn meadows towards a remote hut in the Austrian Alps. Straggling along at the back, I huff and puff my way up a formidable slope, kicking mud off my shoes and wiping beads of sweat from my sunburned brow.

VIENNA, AUSTRIA – Austria's glittering capital is a treasure chest of hidden historic gems - but, you may need some help finding them. Enter Hebe Jeffrey.

SALZBURG, AUSTRIA – You don't have to look hard to find traces of Mozart in this city that gets its name from the salt mountains that surround it. The musical genius' image can be found in Salzburg's parks, city squares, public buildings and on thousands of chocolate boxes.

VIENNA, AUSTRIA – They are often referred to as the crown jewels of European architecture – over 200 regal buildings located in this compact capital that were literally fit for kings.

LIGIST, AUSTRIA – As the gallant white stallion pranced around the outdoor ring snorting and sniffing and casting a menacing eye towards a nearby barn filled with mares, a young Austrian man turned to some friends and said: “I think the horse has had too much schilcher.”

GRAZ, AUSTRIA – Graz is one of the most charming places in a country dominated by charming cities and towns. A city of 250,000 - the second largest in Austria - Graz is located just a few hours from Venice and the Italian influence is seen everywhere here; in how the people dress (far trendier than in either Vienna or Salzburg); and the style of architecture, which reminds a visitor of colourful Tuscan cities.

SALZBURG, AUSTRIA – My arrival to Europe for our “dream-come-true, first-ever family holiday abroad” was not what I had envisioned. Think snow storm, airport closing, accidental cancellation, expensive rebooking, probable lost luggage and you’ve got the picture.

This is the third time in three days that I’m devouring a schnitzel bigger than my face. The pork cutlet pours over my giant plate, it’s pounded paper thin with a crispy golden exterior. I cut a triangle-sized bite, squeeze fresh lemon, dousing the morsel in its juices, and then smear it through the remnants of my potato salad. I wash the perfect bite down with a gulp of blond beer. This is so good! I’m already negotiating how I can fit in a fourth stop on my travels.