Salzburg Christmas Markets 2025: What to See and other Tips

Salzburg Christmas Markets 2025 – What to See, Where to Stay, and Where to Eat

Are you wondering where to go this Christmas season and are the Salzburg Christmas markets calling your name? Then believe that this Austrian city is one of the most magical Advent destinations in Europe. The historic center beneath Hohensalzburg Fortress lights up with hundreds of lights in December, and the famous Christkindlmarkt in the square by the cathedral is one of the oldest in Austria.

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Salzburg Christmas Markets / ©Tourismus Salzburg GmbH / G.Breitegger

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Salzburg Christmas Markets

If you’re planning a weekend trip for a Christmas atmosphere, then I’ve prepared a complete guide for you on what to see, where to stay , and where to go for some traditional food.

Salzburg Christmas Markets – Dates 2025

November 20, 2025 – January 1, 2026
Monday – Thursday 10 AM – 8:30 PM
Friday 10 AM – 9:00 PM
Saturday 9 AM – 9:00 PM
Sunday and Public Holidays 9 AM – 8:30 PM

Special Opening Hours

December 7, 10 AM – 9:30 PM
December 24, 9 AM – 3:00 PM
25.+26. December 11 AM – 6:00 PM
December 31, 10 AM – 6:00 PM (Gastronomy until 1 AM)
January 1, 11 AM – 6:00 PM

Salzburg Christmas Markets / ©Tourismus Salzburg GmbH / G.Breitegger

Where to Stay in Salzburg

Hotel Elefant Family Business
✅ Right in the historic center
✅ Stylish 13th-century building SHOW AVAILABILITY

Altstadt Hotel Hofwirt
✅ Traditional Salzburg hotel
✅ 10-minute walk from the markets – ideal without a car SHOW AVAILABILITY

arte Hotel Salzburg
✅ Modern design and Alpine views
✅ Great choice for train travelers SHOW AVAILABILITY

Small Luxury Hotel Goldgasse
✅ Boutique hotel in a romantic alley – excellent reviews
✅ Rooms with original decor SHOW AVAILABILITY

MEININGER Hotel Salzburg City Center
✅ Cheaper option for families and groups – if you want to save money
✅ Good connection to the city center SHOW AVAILABILITY

None of our recommended hotels caught your eye? Find one that meets your requirements:

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Salzburg Christmas Markets – What to See Here?

Are you curious about what the Salzburg Christmas markets have in store for you this year? I’ve prepared what I believe are the most interesting things you can look forward to during Advent. And there’s certainly a lot.

Salzburg Christkindlmarkt

It’s the heart of the entire Advent season in Salzburg – with over 90 stalls offering punch, gingerbread, and handmade decorations.
It is one of the oldest and, in my opinion, one of the most beautiful markets in Europe.
You’ll find it at Dom and Residenceplatz

Salzburg Christmas Markets / ©Tourismus Salzburg / G.Breitegger

Advent Singing (and more) in the Cathedral

Practically every weekend, concerts are held in the cathedral or other venues, which is ideal if you want to soak up the Christmas atmosphere in a different way than just at the stalls.
Since I used to play the flute in an orchestra, I enjoy going to Christmas concerts from time to time.

Hohensalzburg Fortress

It completes the fairytale atmosphere for the Salzburg Christmas markets.
Take the cable car up to the fortress, where there’s usually a smaller Advent market with panoramic city views.

Salzburg Christmas Markets / ©Tourismus Salzburg GmbH / G.Breitegger

Mirabell Gardens

You’ll also find a smaller market in front of Mirabell Palace.
I definitely recommend visiting, at least for a stroll; it’s beautifully lit during Advent.

Hellbrunn Advent

Hellbrunn Palace is a bit out of the way from the main center, but it’s definitely worth a visit.
I recommend planning your visit when there’s fresh snow – you won’t regret it!
If you prefer intimate markets with a romantic atmosphere, believe me, you don’t want to miss this place.
The Salzburg – Hellbrunn Christmas markets have been held here for over 20 years.
They have shorter opening hours, but if you arrive during the day, you’ll definitely enjoy them.

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Where to Eat and for Christmas Specialties – Salzburg

Market Stalls – Don’t miss the punch or mulled wine in a traditional porcelain mug, traditional Bratwurst, roasted chestnuts (I never leave the markets without them), and of course, you must bring home some Christmas gingerbread (sometimes I even manage to find a gluten-free option at the markets).

St. Peter Stiftskulinarium – It is the oldest restaurant in Europe and has historic premises. A true Austrian classic.
Bärenwirt – If you’re looking for local cuisine and crave the famous chicken with dumplings, head to this restaurant.
Augustiner Bräustuben – A popular brewery and beer garden in Salzburg. Here you can enjoy the Advent atmosphere and traditional Austrian dishes with your beer.
Café Tomaselli – For all sweet lovers, you mustn’t miss this famous café with Viennese charm. Ideally, go for a Sacher torte and coffee.

Practical Advice and Tips for Salzburg Christmas Markets

Transport- From Prague, there’s a direct train (approx. 6 hrs) or by car via Linz (approx. 4.5 hrs). From us in Budějce, you’ll be here in about 3 hours by car. It’s also possible to travel by train from here.
Parking- I recommend parking garages near the center, where rates are cheaper in the evening. Some hotels offer parking for their guests under preferential conditions.
When to Arrive- The biggest crowds are, of course, on weekends after dark. If you can, arrive on Friday morning or during the week.
Families with Children- Head mainly to Hellbrunn, where there’s an annual children’s Christmas zoo and workshops.

If you want to experience truly authentic Christmas markets, Salzburg is perfect for it. A romantic center, historic backdrops, and authentic markets without unnecessary kitsch await you. Without exaggeration, I consider Advent here to be one of the most beautiful in Europe. Plan your weekend here and don’t forget to book your hotel as soon as possible, because accommodation sells out many weeks in advance.

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Salzburg Christmas Markets 2025: What to See, where to Stay, and where to Eat