Salzburg’s Enchanting Christmas Market Season

Snowflakes falling, the scent of cinnamon in the air and festive lights glowing against a historic backdrop. Salzburg at Christmas is pure magic. Famous for Mozart, Sound of Music and its signature dessert, Salzburger Nockerl, the city transforms into an enchanting winter wonderland during the festive season. It is a place you simply have to visit during this time.

The Christmas markets in Salzburg, located in the center of Austria, are free to visit. Most markets open from mid-November until Christmas, and some even remain open into early January. There are many seasonal highlights to enjoy during this time, including traditional wind and brass music, known locally as Turmblasen. Many markets also offer a varied program for the whole family, with festive entertainment, culinary delights, and authentic local traditions. It is an experience which will stay in your mind for a very long time.

In Austria, Christmas markets are traditionally known as Christkindlmarkt or Weihnachtsmarkt. The first recorded market dates to the 13th century, when Duke Albrecht I of Habsburg, who would later become King of the Romans, granted permission for a “December Market” to provide essential goods for the winter season. By the 14th century, these gatherings had evolved into Nikolausmarkts, where local artisans sold handcrafted toys, gingerbread and festive gifts. During the 17th century, markets such as the Thomasmarkt and the Nikolo- und Weihnachtsmarkt became central to Austria’s seasonal celebrations, combining trade, community and the joyful spirit of the holidays. What once began as a practical marketplace has grown into a cherished tradition across Europe.

Salzburg has many Christmas markets, each with its own charm. Some are small and cozy, others lively and full of festive spirit. Since the names and types can be confusing at first, here is a short overview to help you understand them better.

Christkindlmarkt

The Christkindlmarkt is Austria’s most traditional form of Christmas market, open until the end of December. Named after the Christkind (Christ Child), it features handcrafted gifts, local delicacies and beautifully decorated stalls. Everything in a truly magical setting.

Tip: If you plan to visit Salzburg for the Christmas holidays, make sure to enjoy an elegant Lunch or Dinner at Hotel Sacher on these festive days.

Advent Markets

In Salzburg, many markets are called Advent markets, running during the four weeks before Christmas. Similar to Christkindlmarkt, they celebrate the season with lights, music and traditional foods, inviting visitors to enjoy the quiet joy of anticipation.

Winter Markets

Some smaller markets continue after Christmas into January and are known as winter markets. These often begin as Advent markets and then extend their season, offering a festive winter atmosphere.

Salzburg’s Christmas markets date back to 1491, making them some of the oldest in Europe. One of the earliest known versions was the Nikolaimarkt, held in early December around St. Nicholas Day, which is on 6 December. It offered seasonal goods, small gifts and festive treats and laid the foundation for Salzburg’s enduring Advent traditions. Another early form was the Tandlmarkt (translated as “flea market”), a simple Advent market where locals could buy festive goods. Over time, especially during the Baroque period, these markets evolved into the Christkindlmarkt, held in the city’s historic squares like Domplatz and Residenzplatz. After a decline in the early 20th century, the market was revived in 1974 with a renewed focus on tradition, local crafts and festive charm. Today, Salzburg is considered as one of Europe’s most magical Christmas destinations.

During the Christmas season, Salzburg turns into a city of lights, music and timeless charm. Its Christmas markets are consistently ranked among the most beautiful in the world. Here are six central markets you have to visit.

Located in Salzburg’s UNESCO-listed Old Town, this historic market in front of the Salzburg cathedral is one of the most atmospheric in the world. Sparkling lights, brass music, local crafts and regional treats create a truly authentic Austrian experience and a highlight for every visitor.

Opening dates: 20 Nov 2025 – 1 Jan 2026
Opening hours: Mon–Thu 10 am–8:30 pm, Fri 10 am–9 pm, Sat 9 am–9 pm, Sun 9 am–8:30 pm
Address: Cathedral & Residenz Square, Salzburg Old Town
Best time to visit: Around 5 pm on weekdays to listen to the live choral music
Must try: Glühwein and roasted chestnuts
More info: www.christkindlmarkt.co.at

Located at Salzburg’s most iconic landmark, this market combines panoramic views with festive flair within the Christmas season. As part of the historic Old Town, the setting is especially enchanting. With live Turmblasen (brass music from the towers) and a dedicated family program, this market is as magical as its setting on the castle grounds.

Opening dates: Late Nov – Late Dec 2025 (to be confirmed)
Opening hours: Fri–Sun, 11 am–7 pm
Address: Mönchsberg 34, 5020 Salzburg (to get there, use the funicular at Festungsgasse 4)
Best time to visit: Afternoon for families, evening for couples
Must try: Freshly-made Flammkuchen (flatbread) from the fortress bakery

With over 700 decorated Christmas trees (be prepared for the spark!) and 24 glowing Advent windows, this family-friendly market feels like a fairytale. Children love the dedicated Christmas World with a train ride and petting zoo, while adults enjoy live music, festive treats and a Krampus parade on 4 Dec. Tip: There is an own Christmas World for children, open from 2 pm – 6 pm with a Christmas train and petting zoo.

Opening dates: 20 Nov – 24 Dec 2025 (closed Mondays)
Opening hours: Tue–Fri 1 pm–8 pm, Sat–Sun 10 am–8 pm
Address: Fürstenweg 37, A-5020 Salzburg
Best time to visit: Sunday afternoons with live music from 2–6 pm
Must try: Bauernkrapfen (filled doughnuts) and a cozy break at the Advent Café at Orangerie
More information: www.hellbrunneradventzauber.at/en

Located just across from St. Andrew’s Church and near Mirabell Palace, this small, authentic market is loved by locals and visitors alike. The central location and relaxed charm make it a perfect stop after sightseeing.

Opening dates: 21 Nov – 31 Dec 2025
Opening hours: Sun–Thu 10 am–8 pm, Fri–Sat 10 am–9 pm
Address: Mirabellplatz, 5020 Salzburg
Best time to visit: Late afternoon or early evening, with traditional live music from 5:15 pm
Must try: Punch and regional delicacies
More information: www.weihnachtsmarkt-salzburg.at

Housed in one of Europe’s oldest restaurants, this intimate market offers a unique mix of history, elegance and festive charm. Sparkling Christmas trees and soft brass music create a cozy atmosphere in the heart of Salzburg’s monastery district.

Opening dates: Mid-Nov – Early Jan 2026 (dates tbc)
Address: St.-Peter-Bezirk 1/4, A-5020 Salzburg
Best time to visit: In the evening for a romantic atmosphere
Must try: Homemade mulled wine
More information: www.stpeter.at/en/christmas-market

Nestled between Getreidegasse and Sternbräu, this hidden gem blends charming decorations, regional arts and crafts and a festive courtyard setting. After Christmas, it transforms into a winter market that lasts until early January. It is a small market, which is worth a visit during your stroll through the city. Tip: Make sure you visit the Krampus parades on the 6 Dec.

Opening dates: 20 Nov 2025 – 6 Jan 2026
Opening hours: Sun–Thu 11 am–7 pm, Fri–Sat 11 am–8:30 pm, 1–6 Jan: 11 am–6 pm
Address: Getreidegasse 34 / Griesgasse 23, A-5020 Salzburg
Best time to visit: Evening, when the lights glow brightest
Must try: Roasted almonds
More information: www.sternadvent.at

Beyond the historic center of the city, Salzburg’s surrounding region offers a collection of charming and authentic seasonal markets. Each one set in a unique landscape, from lakeside villages to castle courtyards. Here is a selection of the most magical markets outside Salzburg:

St. Leonhard Advent

A traditional market in front of the pilgrimage church of St. Leonhard, with a focus on local craftsmanship and customs. All proceeds are donated to regional charities.

Opening dates: 29 Nov – 21 Dec 2025 (Sat 2–8 pm, Sun 11 am–7 pm)
Distance: 10 km / approx. 15 min by car
More information: www.advent-groedig.com/de/adventmarktsanktleonhard/

St. Jakob am Thurn Advent Market

An intimate and peaceful market near a baroque church, offering handmade gifts and local specialties in a romantic setting.

Opening dates: 29 Nov – 21 Dec 2025 (Sat & Sun only, 2–7 pm)
Distance: 10 km / approx. 20 min by car

Plainer Christkindlmarkt

A family-friendly market with a warm, cozy atmosphere, perfect for children and cozy evenings with local entertainment.

Opening dates: 21 Nov – 21 Dec 2025 (Fri 4–8:30 pm, Sat 2–8:30 pm, Sun 11:30 am–8 pm)
Distance: 15 km / approx. 25 min by car

Advent Market at Hohenwerfen Castle

Set in a romantic medieval fortress high above the Salzach valley, this market offers a fairy-tale atmosphere with panoramic views and festive music.

Opening dates: 29–30 Nov & 6–7 Dec 2025 (Sat & Sun only, 1–7 pm)
Distance: 45 km / approx. 40 min by car
More information: www.burg-hohenwerfen.at/en

Wolfgangseer Advent

A truly magical experience across three lakeside towns—St. Wolfgang, St. Gilgen, and Strobl—connected by ferries. Expect traditional music, floating lanterns, and nostalgic charm.

Opening dates: 21 Nov – 21 Dec 2025 (Wed 1–7:30 pm, Thu–Fri 11:30 am–7:30 pm, Sat–Sun 10 am–7:30 pm; closed Mon–Tue)

Distance: 40–50 km / approx. 45–60 min by car
More information: www.wolfgangseer-advent.at/en

Altenmarkt-Zauchensee Advent Market

Known for its wooden huts, large Advent wreath and alpine flair, this market offers an authentic experience with regional music and crafts.

Opening dates: 23 Nov – 22 Dec 2025 (weekends only, 2:30–8 pm; special evening on 28 Nov until 10 pm)
Distance: 65 km / approx. 45 min by car

Radstädter Advent

Held in the heart of the old town, this charming market blends historic architecture with traditional food and local artisans.

Opening dates: 29 Nov – 27 Dec 2025 (Sat & Sun only, 3:30–8:30 pm)
Distance: 70 km / approx. 55 min by car
More information: www.radstadt.com/en/radstadt/top-events/christmas-market

Goldegger Advent

Set in the historic Goldegg Castle, this peaceful and contemplative market takes place only on one day and is perfect for a quiet, musical Advent escape.

Opening date: 21 Dec 2025 (2–7 pm)
Distance: 70 km / approx. 60 min by car
More information: www.sonnenterrasse.at/de/veranstaltungen/2025-12-21-goldegger-advent

While visiting the Christmas markets in Salzburg, do not miss the chance to indulge in traditional Austrian food. Warm up with a cup of Glühwein (mulled wine), Punsch, or Kinderpunsch (without alcohol) for the little ones. For something stronger, try Feuerzangenbowle, a fire-tongs punch. Sweet lovers will enjoy fluffy Salzburger Nockerl, tasty Krapfen and Bauernkrapfen (filled doughnuts), and Kaiserschmarrn. For a hearty bite, dig into Käsespätzle or melty Raclette, perfect comfort food for a festive winter night.

Salzburg at Christmas is full of charm and tradition. With these insider tips from Sacher, you will be ready to experience the festive season just like a local: authentic, joyful and unforgettable.

While many Christmas markets around Salzburg now accept card payments (debit or credit), especially at larger or more professionally run stalls, cash is still widely used. So, it is a good idea to carry some cash with you, especially for smaller markets.

Do not forget to bring your camera! The Christmas markets are full of charming scenes and festive backdrops perfect for capturing the holiday spirit. And of course, dress warmly: thick coats, scarves, gloves and winter boots are a must, as snow and cold temperatures are all part of the magical experience.

Salzburg is influenced by traditional Austrian culture and values Austrian craftsmanship. A lot of products are homemade and are of very high quality. So, if you are looking for a special Christmas gift or beautiful Christmas tree ornaments, you will find them there for sure. Besides handmade products, there is also a lot of delicious food, which can be also given as a present.

Tip: For those seeking a special product steeped in Austrian tradition, a visit to the Sacher Shop is highly recommended. Along with unique souvenirs, the shop offers Austrian classics such as the Original Sacher-Torte, luxurious chocolates and charming Christmas gifts.

In Salzburg, the Christmas season is also a time for sharing special moments with family and pets. The city’s festive markets create a cheerful atmosphere that everyone can enjoy together. If the Christmas markets have brought you and your family to Salzburg, Hotel Sacher ensures that every guest feels at home during this festive season, especially since the hotel is beautifully decorated with impressive Christmas decorations starting from the beginning of November. Children are treated to magical moments through our Petit Sacher offerings and spacious Family Suites, while our Sacher Pets program ensures that furry friends receive just as much care and attention.

During the festive season, Hotel Sacher Salzburg offers its guests exclusive Christmas tours through the city’s festively decorated Old Town, including a visit to the historic Christkindlmarkt at Dom- and Residenzplatz, which is one of the oldest Christmas markets in the world.

A true seasonal highlight: a romantic horse-drawn sleigh ride through the snowy Salzburg countryside. For an extra touch of magic, guests from Hotel Sacher can combine the ride with a cruise across Lake Wolfgang, visiting the three picturesque Advent markets in St. Wolfgang, St. Gilgen, and Strobl — illuminated by the glowing peace lantern on the lake.

During Christmas and New Years Salzburg also offers a great program apart from the Christmas markets. There are concerts, theaters, special dinners for Christmas and New Year’s Eve and other festive events. Make sure that you check out the Sacher Insider Event Calendar, to not miss out the magical music experiences, such as the Best of Mozart: Advent and Christmas Concerts at Hohensalzburg Fortress from 1 Dec to 23 Dec 2025, or the famous Salzburger Advent Singing at Grosses Festspielhaus, from 28 Nov to 14 Dec 2025.

There is something truly magical about Christmas in Salzburg. Whether you are drawn to quiet, romantic corners or lively squares glowing with lights, music and mulled wine, the city has something for everyone. Hotel Sacher Salzburg combines timeless elegance, rich tradition and the perfect location to explore the city and create your own unforgettable Christmas stories.

The Salzburg Christmas market dates are from mid of November to Christmas, but some are even until the beginning of January.

Yes, all Christmas markets do not charge an entrance fee. Still, make sure you have enough money with you to taste all the delicious food and experience the different activities.

In order to see some of the magical Christmas Markets and even attend a traditional concert during this time, it is good to stay at least three days.