Christmas Markets in Salzburg

It is the season for a romantic walk across the city's hilltops, affording a breathtaking view of the city. After descending back down to town, the merry bustle of the Salzburg Christmas Market touches all. The smell of punch and toasted almonds, hot roasted chestnuts and freshly baked apples envelopes your nose, and the vendors' gingerbread hearts, nativity figures, Christmas tree ornaments, toys and warm knitwear are irresistible.

Salzburg Christmas Market
Salzburg's Christmas market, mentioned as far back as the 15th century, is located at the foot of the Hohensalzburg fortress and around the venerable Cathedral of Salzburg. An extensive programme of events such as choral singing in front of the Cathedral, "Turmblasen" (wind instruments) on Residenz Square and Nativity exhibits in the Residenz courtyard awaits you.
Where: On Cathedral and Residenz Square, in Salzburg's historic city centre.
When: 22nd November - 26th December 2012
Opening Hours: Monday - Thursday: 10:00 a.m. - 08:30 p.m., Friday: 10:00 a.m. - 09:00 p.m., Saturday & Holidays: 09:00 a.m. - 09:00 p.m., Sunday: 09:00 a.m. - 08:30 p.m., 24th December: 09:00 a.m. - 03:00 p.m., 25th December: 11:00 a.m. - 06:00 p.m., 26th December: 11:00 a.m. - 06:00 p.m.
www.christkindlmarkt.co.at

Advent Magic in Hellbrunn
A courtyard, a path lined by torches and an oversized Advent calendar are part of the Magic of Advent. Romantic booths, tempting treats and pre-Christmas gift ideas add to the charming atmosphere. Children can enjoy a sledge ride drawn by real reindeer, and an exciting entertainment programme between the orangery and the park will assure festive Advent afternoons at Hellbrunn Palace for all.
Where: In Hellbrunn Courtyard
When: 22nd November - 24th December 2012
Opening Hours: Wednesday - Friday: 01:00 p.m. - 08:00 p.m., Saturday, Sunday and Public Holidays: 10:00 a.m. - 08:00 p.m., 24th December: 10:00 a.m. - 02:00 p.m., from 1st December also Monday and Tuesday 01:00 p.m. - 08:00 p.m.
www.salzburg.info

Christmas Market on Mirabell Square
The Christmas Market in front of Mirabell Palace has become a centre of attraction for young and old over the last few years. Culinary delicacies, mulled wine and lovingly decorated stalls invite visitors to stop and browse. This centrally located market is easily accessed opposite the bus stop and car park and just a few minutes' walk from the train station.
Where: Mirabell Square, Goethestraße
When: 22nd November - 24th December 2012
Opening Hours: Mon, Tues, Wed, Fri: 10:00 a.m. - 08:00 p.m., Thurs: 09:00 a.m. - 08:00 p.m., Saturday & Holidays: 10:00 a.m. - 09:00 p.m., Sunday: 10:00 a.m. - 08:30 p.m., 24th December: 10:00 a.m. - 03:00 p.m.
www.salzburg.info

Advent Market in the Sterngarten
A small, pre-Christmas haven is tucked amongst the buildings in the Sterngarten between Getreidegasse and Griesgasse: the "Stern Advent Markt". Far from the hustle and bustle, the market's unparalleled charm invites visitors to stroll along its booths and purchase traditional handicrafts in the artistic setting.
Where: In the courtyard of the Sternbräu, between Getreidegasse and Griesgasse
When: 24th November - 23rd December 2012
Opening Hours: Sunday to Friday: 11:00 a.m. - 07:00 p.m., Saturday: 10:00 a.m. - 07:00 p.m.
www.salzburg.info

Advent Market St. Leonhard
The Advent Market is located near the St. Leonhard Pilgrimage Church. Try out the traditional gingerbread, roasted chestnuts, punch and children's bakery, and be inspired by the array of tasteful gifts on display. There is also an entertainment programme with brass bands and Advent events.
Where: Next to St. Leonhard Pilgrimage Church
When: 1st - 23rd December 2012
Opening Hours: Saturday: 02:00 p.m. - 07:00 p.m., Sunday and 8th December: 11:00 a.m. - 07:00 p.m.
www.salzburg.info

Salzburg Advent Singing
Year after year nearly 200 participants on stage and behind the scenes of the Large Festival Hall make sure that Salzburg Advent Singing lives up to its outstanding reputation. An intimate, unforgettable event that has become a fixture of Salzburg's Christmas line-up.
Where: Scenic oratorio at the Great Festival Hall, Residenzplatz
When: 30th November - 16th December 2012
www.salzburgeradventsingen.at

Original Salzburger Advent
The programme of the Original Salzburger Advent at St. Andrew's Church will take you on a contemplative journey back to the Christmas of your childhood. A memorable Advent experience for every generation with over one hundred performers. Lovingly staged and presented.
Where: St. Andrew's Church on Mirabell Square
When: 30th November - 16th December 2012
www.salzburg.info

Salzburg Advent Serenades
The wonderful surroundings and the festively decorated Gothic Hall create a special atmosphere, complimenting the Salzburg Advent and Christmas Season. The programme includes classical and folk music, as well as readings for the Advent and Christmas season. It comprises both popular music and some less-known pieces.
Where: Gothic Hall in the St. Blaise's Church, next to the Civic Hospital
When: 30th November - 23rd December 2012
www.adventserenaden.at

Romantic Advent Market in the Hohensalzburg Fortress Courtyard
Featuring local arts and crafts, charming gifts, Christmas treats and a lively social programme.
Where: Fortress Hohensalzburg
When: 30th November - 23rd December 2012
Opening Hours: Friday - Sunday: 10:00 a.m. - 07:00 p.m.
www.salzburg-burgen.at

Advent at Lake Wolfgangsee
About 1 hour's drive from Salzburg City you will find the beautiful Lake Wolfgangsee. The inviting, peaceful glow of lanterns across the water draws guests from near and far to contemplate in, wonder at and enjoy the Lake Wolfgangsee Advent Market. There is a joyful anticipation of Christmas in the air and visitors are able to experience fascinating customs still in practice today. The Lake Wolfgangsee Advent Market is celebrated annually in St. Gilgen, Strobl and St. Wolfgang, and this year is no exception.
Where: St. Gilgen, Strobl and St. Wolfgang
When: 23rd November - 23rd December 2012
Opening Hours: Thursday & Friday: 12:00 - 07:30 p.m., Saturday, Sunday & 6th - 9th December: 10:00 a.m. - 07:30 p.m.
www.wolfgangseer-advent.at

"Silent Night" Town Oberndorf
Not only the unique ambience, but also the craftwork fascinates visitors at the Christmas Market in front of the world famous Silent Night Chapel where the Christmas carol was born. Admire the wood carvings and hand-made decorations while listening to Christmas music with mulled wine and roasted chestnuts.
Where: Silent Night Chapel
When: 24th November - 24th December 2012
Opening Hours: Thurs: 10:00 a.m. - 06:00 p.m., Fri - Sun: 10:00 a.m. - 08:00 p.m., 24th Dec: 10:00 a.m. - 06:30 p.m.
www.stillenacht-oberndorf.at

For further information on Austrian Christmas Markets for UK visitors, please contact our Holiday Information Line:
UK: 0845 1011818 (local rate)
IRE: 189 0930118 (local rate)
Email: holiday@austria.info