Christmas Markets in Salzburg & SalzburgerLand

The pealing of countless church bells reminds us that Christmas is near, and the Salzburg Christmas markets will fill you with warmth as you look out to the city's snow-covered roofs, domes and towers.

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 you, and the vendors' gingerbread hearts, nativity figures, Christmas tree ornaments, toys, and snug knitwear are irresistible.

Christmas Markets

Salzburg's Christmas Market in the City Centre

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 await you.

Where: On Cathedral and Residenz Square, in Salzburg's historic city centre.
When: 23 November 2023 - 1 January 2024
Opening times: Mon – Thu 10 am - 8.30 pm; Fri 10 am – 9 pm; Sat 9 am – 9 pm; Sun and holidays 9 am – 8.30 pm;
Special opening times: 24 December 9 am - 3 pm, 25+26 December 11 am - 6 pm, 27-30 December 10 am - 8:30 pm, 31 December 10 am - 1 am, 1 January 10 am - 6 pm

Advent Magic in Hellbrunn

A courtyard, a path lined by torches and an oversized Advent calendar are part of the Hellbrunner Adventzauber. 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: 23 November - 24 December 2023
How to get there: 20 minutes by bus no. 25 from Salzburg city centre

Christmas Market on Mirabell Square

The Christmas Market on Mirabell Square 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: 23 November - 24 December 2023
Opening times: Sunday – Thursday 10 am – 8 pm; Friday – Saturday 10 am – 9 pm; 24 December 10 am – 3 pm

St. Leonhard Advent Market

The Advent Market St. Leonhard is located near the 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: every weekend in December 2023
Opening times: Saturday 2 - 7 pm, Sunday and 8 December 11 am - 7 pm

Advent Market in the Hohensalzburg Fortress Courtyard

Featuring local arts and crafts, charming gifts, Christmas treats, and a lively social programme. With the Salzburg Card, you'll get free entrance to the fortress, where you will enjoy great views of the city.

Where: Fortress Hohensalzburg
When: 1 December - 18 December 2023
Opening times: Fri, Sat & Sun 11 am – 7 pm

More Christmas Markets in Salzburg & SalzburgerLand

Stern Advent with Winter Market
When: 23 November 2023 - 6 January 2024
Wolfgangseer Advent
St. Wolfgang, St. Gilgen and Strobl
When: 17 November - 23 December 2023
New Year's Market: 26 – 31 December 2023
Advent Market in Radstadt
When: 25 November - 17 December 2023, Sat & Sun; 26 + 27 December 2023
Advent of the Villages
The 6 villages of the Fuschlsee region
When: 26 November - 18 December 2022, Saturday & Sunday
Advent Market at Hohenwerfen Castle
When: 2 - 10 December 2023 (Sat & Sun), 8 December 2023 from 1-7 pm

Advent Music in Salzburg

Salzburg Advent Festival

Year after year, nearly 200 participants on stage and behind the scenes of the Large Festival Hall make sure that the Salzburg Advent Festival 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: 1 - 17 December 2023

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Salzburger Advent

The programme of the 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: Großes Festspielhaus
When: 1 - 17 December 2023 (Fri, Sat & Sun)

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Advent in the Salzburg Province

Advent at Wolfgangsee Lake

Not far from the city of Salzburg, you will find the beautiful Wolfgangsee lake. The peaceful glow of lanterns across the water draws guests from near and far to the Wolfgangseer Advent. There is a joyful anticipation of Christmas and visitors are able to experience fascinating customs still in practice today. Take, for example, the Advent candles that light up St. Gilgen from 4 pm onwards, or the special festive boat trips that take you to St. Wolfgang.

Where: St. Gilgen, Strobl, and St. Wolfgang
How to get there: Bus 150 departing in front of Salzburg's main railway station takes you to the town of St. Gilgen more or less every 50 minutes.

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"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 eponymous 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, Oberndorf
When: Visit every day from 8.30 am – 6 pm
How to get there: The regional train S1 or S11 from Salzburg takes you to Oberndorf in 25 minutes.

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Some more Christmas Events and Markets in SalzburgerLand:

Altenmarkt-Zauchensee: Advent.Moments
Advent and Spa in Bad Hofgastein
Goldegg: Goldegger Advent
Salzburg Mountain Advent in the Grossarl Valley
Henndorf at Lake Wallersee: Christmas Market at Gut Aiderbichl
Advent at Lake Mattsee (German-language only)