The Ultimate Guide to the Salzburg Christmas Market
Are you debating visiting Salzburg’s Christmas Markets? Are you trying to decide whether to stop here during your winter European getaway? Great news—you’ve come to the right place.
I recently visited this stunning Austrian town and its charming Christmas markets. It was actually my first European market, and it was unforgettable!
I’m excited to show you why this Austrian city is worth the visit this Christmas season. Follow along to the best parts of the Salzburg Christmas Market.
Crash Course to the Salzburger Christkindlmarkt
Short on time? Need a quick summary of the best advice on visiting the markets?
- The market runs from November 21- January 1st
- Most stalls only accept cash- so be prepared!
- Wear layers as it is cold, especially at night.
- Be patient as you wait for food & drinks; some popular stands have long lines
- Embrace the Christmas spirit!
Salzburg market at night, photo credit: R. Schwartz
Salzburg, Austria
Salzburg is close to Germany in the northern section of the Alps. You probably know the town for the famous movie Sound of Music, where the Austrian Von Trapp family escaped Nazi control on the eve of WWII.
Today, visitors flock to the city to experience the history of this famous musical. I’m not going to lie- it’s one of the reasons I went, as I grew up watching the movie and now love showing it to my kids.
Salzburg Winter Weather
Markets typically open in November and stretch far into Christmas. Due to Salzburg’s proximity to the Alps, be prepared for chilly weather: pack layers and a warm jacket. I love this long puffer for winter weather.
During our trip, I wore these warm and comfortable Sorel boots. I can’t recommend them enough. I did bring a pair of my favorite tennis shoes as a backup, but I mostly wore Sorel’s. I also wear wool socks to keep my feet nice and cozy.
Winter scenes of Salzburg, photo credit: R. Schwartz
As for the weather, expect highs in the 40s and lows in the 20s/30s for November & December. Remember that temps drop as the sun goes down, so you may want to add another layer later in the day. Don’t forget gloves and a warm hat too!
During our trip in late November, a snowstorm hit the area right before we arrived. Although it was gorgeous, it was also much colder than I anticipated. I cannot stress the importance of bringing layers!
Salzburg Christmas Markets
There are several places around Salzburg with markets. Each varies in size and mug decorations but is generally similar in food, drink, and gifts.
Salzburg Christkindlmarkt at the Domplatz and Residenzplatz Square
In the heart of old Salzburg, you will discover one of the oldest markets in Europe. The backdrop of the stunning Cathedral and historic buildings makes the entire experience special and unique. There are actually several markets covering this historic section of Salzburg Christkindlmarkt.
We experienced delicious food and treats and browsed stands of homemade gifts. If I had space in my luggage, I would have bought one of the many beautiful advent wreaths in the local booths. For the adventurous souls, there’s ice skating too!
Salzburg Christkindlmarkt at the Domplatz and Residenzplatz Square
Mirabellplatz
The market at Mirabellplatz is smaller than others, but don’t let that discourage you. I found it to be quaint and cozy. Walking through, I noticed many locals gathering for a warm drink after work. If locals are there, that’s always a great sign!
If you are coming into town for a day trip, this market is a short walk from the central train station. The Salzburg public bus system also stops near the market.
Hellbrunn Palace
The Hellbrunn market, also known as Hellbrunner Adventzauber, is a little further out of town, but you can easily reach it by public transportation.
This advent market is ideal for kids, with many child-friendly activities such as face painting and writing letters to Christkind (Santa). Activities are also centered around the historic Krampus.
As a side note, this market does have an entry fee before 7 p.m. However, the fee includes a free drink! Children under 6 are free, and after 7 p.m., there’s no admission cost.
Salzburg Fortress
Visiting the market at the fortress is a real treat and something to consider when planning your visit. First of all, this market grants visitors scenic views of Old Salzburg. Secondly, you can tie in a visit to the fortress too.
As a side note, this market only stays open till 7 pm.
Market at the Domplatz and Residenzplatz Square
Opening Hours for Residenzplatz Square
The market opens to the public on November 21st and runs through December. January 1st is the official last day. Some markets open later in November, which makes Salzburg unique.
Times from November to December 23:
- Monday-Thursday 10 am-8:30 pm
- Friday 10 am-9pm
- Saturday 9 am-9 pm
- Sunday 9 am-8:30 pm
Christmas Holiday Hours
- Christmas Eve 9-3
- Christmas 11-6
- December 26th 11-6
- December 27-30 10-8:30
- New Year’s Eve 10-1 am
- New Year’s Day 10- 6
What to Eat & Drink
food stall in Salzburg, photo credit: R. Schwartz
Naturally, there is an abundance of bratwursts throughout the markets. We stumbled upon a crowded stand of baked potatoes covered in numerous toppings—delicious! Here are some other tasty treats to try-
- Pretzels
- Roasted Chestnuts
- Mozart Balls (a sweet treat)
- Cookies
- Kaiserschmarrn (shredded pancakes- also delicious)
collectible mugs at the market, photo credit: R. Schwartz
Unique Events
- Sing along Choir on Tuesday & open to all
- Salzburg Christ Child visits every Sunday afternoon
- Children’s reading of Christ Child on Wednesday afternoons
Salzburg Activities
To be honest, I came to Salzburg for two reasons—the Christmas festivities and a chance to see the filming sites of The Sound of Music. One morning, we loaded a bus for a four-hour tour of Salzburg and the key places in the film. Our tour guide, April, was energetic and eager to share all the details of the filming process.
Pairing the markets with a tour makes for a fun day, especially if the weather is cold, as you’ll spend a fair amount of time on a warm bus. We spent the first half of the day on the tour, relaxing in the warm hotel with drinks before heading out to the markets.
Beyond the musical, Salzburg is the birthplace of Mozart. You can visit his birthplace and residence in town.
Pro tip: combine your time in Salzburg with stays in Munich and Vienna. You’ll be able to visit many beautiful markets for a magical Christmas season.
In Conclusion: The Ultimate Guide to the Salzburg Christmas Market
I hope my guide to the most majestic Salzburg Christmas Market helps you plan your next great adventure.
🎄Europe’s Christmas Markets 🎄
Ultimate Guide to Salzburg’s Christmas Markets
All you need to know about Vienna’s Christmas Markets
A Complete Guide to the Christmas Markets in Munich, Germany
