I arrived at the Eggenberg Castle around 9 in the morning. This palace lies on the outskirts of the city, easily reached by tram number 1 from the center. Although the stop is called ‘Schloss Eggenberg’, the building is not visible from that street. The area is very built up, and not in a very nice way. During the winter the main rooms of the palace are closed, so I just walked around in the gardens (which costs a 2 EUR entrance fee). It was quiet of course, the squirrels were running about doing their morning chores. And the peacocks were there too, as mentioned by John Booth. Not much more to see, although I had a quick peek into the weird mannerist grotto in the castle’s inner courtyard.

Within an hour I was back on the tram, ready to explore the city center. I decided to go up to the Schlossberg first. That’s where the emblematic Clock Tower stands. I went up by elevator, which costs 1 EUR and is "just" an elevator ride. The Schlossberg area above the city is popular with locals for a stroll. That's what I did too. Unfortunately, the weather was too cloudy for good photos of the city.

I finished my visit by following the walking tour provided in the tourist information brochure. This will take you along the Burg’s double helix staircase, the Landeshaus where a Christmas ice crib was melting away and other minor sights. The highlight for me undoubtedly was the Mausoleum of Emperor Ferdinand II. It looks out of place here, it would suit a spot in Rome. The entrance is to the back, where behind a simple door an exuberant church and crypt await.

P.S.: I ate once at Mangolds (see Ian Cade's review below) - tasty and cheap vegetarian food, very popular with pensioners, students and shoppers.