Salzburg Christmas Market Itinerary
If you’re planning a Christmas market trip then Salzburg needs to be on your radar! It can easily be combined with a trip to Vienna as the two cities are only a short train ride away from each other and it’s well worth exploring for a day or two. So, here’s my one day Salzburg Christmas Market Itinerary.
There are a few Christmas markets to explore in Salzburg, where you’ll find lots of gorgeous Christmas gifts and souvenirs that you wont find anywhere else. This post is full of into so you can visit Salzburg well prepared, as I’ve included links for where to stay, where to eat, things to do and all of the best Christmas markets in Salzburg.
So, make sure you wrap up warm as the city is freezing cold, and lets plan your one day Salzburg Christmas Market Itinerary…
The Best Christmas Markets in Salzburg
The Salzburg Christmas markets are huge, and really magical, and what makes them even better is how close together they all are. You can easily wander between them on foot, soaking up the festive atmosphere as you go (and popping into cafes to warm up because let me warn you, it is COLD).
Salzburg Christkindlmarkt in Domplatz and Residenzplatz
The Salzburg Christkindlmarkt in Domplatz and Residenzplatz is the main event and the one you absolutely cannot miss. It is set right in front of Salzburg Cathedral, and this market feels incredibly traditional and magical, especially as the lights come on in the evening.
You will find wooden stalls selling handcrafted gifts, decorations, cosy woollen items and all the classic Christmas market food and drink. Grab a mug of glühwein or hot chocolate, take your time browsing, and just enjoy being right in the heart of the old town.
Mirabellplatz Christmas Market
Just a short walk away from the Christkindlmarkt in Domplatz and Residenzplatz, is the Mirabellplatz Christmas Market, which feels slightly calmer and more local. You can find the market by Mirabell Palace, it’s really pretty during the day and lovely in the early evening.
It is a great spot if you want to browse without the bigger crowds, and there are plenty of stalls selling handmade gifts, sweets and festive treats. If you are travelling with children, this market is also a really nice option as it feels a little more relaxed.
Christmas Market at Hohensalzburg Fortress
This is one of my favourite markets in Salzburg is the Christmas Market at Hohensalzburg Fortress. You do need to take the funicular up, but it is so worth it and you can easily spend most of the day here exploring the museum, the views and the grounds.
The views over Salzburg are incredible, especially at sunset, and the market itself feels extra special being up at the fort. It is much smaller than the ones in the old town, but that almost makes it more charming and a must visit.
St Peter’s Abbey Christmas Market
If you want something a bit more traditional and slightly away from the busiest areas, the St Peter’s Abbey Christmas Market is a lovely hidden gem in Salzburg. It is smaller and more understated, but it feels very authentic and cosy which is always nice, especially after being in the crowded markets. This is a great place to pick up more traditional decorations and enjoy a quieter moment during your Christmas market wandering.
Where to Stay in Salzburg for Christmas Markets
There are lots of gorgeous hotels, airbnbs and guesthouses to choose from in Salzburg that are perfect for the Christmas markets, some with a spa and gym as well.
Here are a few of my top hotel recommendations for every budget…
🍳 = breakfast available 🍸 = restaurant / bar
💦 = swimming pool / spa 🏋🏼♀️ = gym / fitness centre
How to Get Around Salzburg
Getting around Salzburg is pretty easy, especially if you are visiting for a short trip or a Christmas markets break. The city is quite small, at least the area you’ll be exploring is, and so it’s very walkable, especially if you are staying in or near the old town.
Walking
Walking is the best way to explore Salzburg, especially around the old town area where most of the main sights, cafés and Christmas markets are. The streets are flat, distances between each attraction are short and you can easily wander from one spot to another without needing taxis or public transport.
Public Transport
If you need to travel a little further, Salzburg’s public transport system is reliable and very easy to use. Buses and trams run frequently and connect the old town with other areas of the city, including the main train station. Tickets can be bought from machines, ticket offices or via apps, and journeys are short, making them a convenient option if it is cold or you are heading back after a long day of exploring.
For getting up to Hohensalzburg Fortress, the funicular is the easiest option and well worth using, especially in winter. It runs regularly and saves you the uphill walk, while still offering great views as you make your way up.
Taxis
Taxis are widely available in Salzburg and are useful if you are travelling late at night or with lots of luggage. Ride-hailing apps are also used in the city, although walking and public transport will usually be more than enough for most visitors.
Join a Tour
Joining a tour in Salzburg is a great way to see the city, especially if it is your first visit or you want to learn a little more about its history from a local. Many walking tours focus on the old town, which means everything is easy to explore on foot and you do not feel rushed from place to place.
During the Christmas season, festive walking tours are a great option. These usually take you through the main Christmas markets, explain local traditions and point out spots you might otherwise walk straight past.
There are also classical music and Mozart themed tours, which feel particularly fitting in Salzburg and a must do, in my opinion. Some include short concerts or visits to historic locations connected to Mozart which makes the experience even more surreal.
One Day Salzburg Christmas Market Itinerary
If you are visiting Salzburg in December, I’ve written a one-day Salzburg Christmas Market Itinerary ti help you plan your trip. This time of year, Salzburg feels so magical with lots of Christmas markets, beautiful old town streets, fortress views and decorations everywhere.
Start your day by heading straight into the old town to explore the Salzburg Christmas markets while everything is still calm and quieter than the evenings. Early in the day is one of the best times to wander around the stalls, especially if you prefer a quieter atmosphere. The markets are right beneath the fortress and are framed by the most beautiful historic buildings. Take your time browsing the stalls, picking up handmade decorations, gifts and souvenirs, and warming up with a hot drink as you wander around.
Once you have had a good look around the markets, it is time for brunch in the old town. Salzburg has so many lovely cafés around the old town and this is the perfect way to warm back up.
After brunch, make your way up to Hohensalzburg Fortress. You can either walk up if you fancy it or take the funicular, which is especially nice in winter. Once you reach the top, spend some time exploring the fortress museums and learning a little more about Salzburg’s history. The views from up here are absolutely incredible, with the old town rooftops, the river and the surrounding mountains stretching out below you.
There is also a Christmas market up at the fortress, which feels completely different from the ones in the old town – much calmer and more of a local feel to it.
It gets dark quite early in the winter, so once it does, have dinner at the fortress restaurant with gorgeous views of the city. The food here is really good (as are the hot chocolates), and the view alone makes it worth it, especially at Christmas when everything feels extra magical.
After dinner, head back down into the old town and experience the Christmas markets again at night. This is when Salzburg really comes alive and really does feel like Christmas. The lights are glowing, the atmosphere is buzzing and the markets feel completely different from earlier in the day.
Wander through the stalls one last time, grab another warm drink or a sweet treat and then head to Mirabell Palace for an incredible evening enjoying a Mozart Concert. This is one of the most special ways to end your day is Salzburg and given that the city is Mozart’s birthplace, it’s a must do! You can book the Mozart concert, here.
And thats it! That’s how to spend the perfect day in Salzburg, Christmas edition.
Enjoy your trip to Salzburg and Merry Christmas!
As always, love Elise x
P.S. This post contains affiliate links, which helps me continue to write travel blogs for you! It doesn’t cost you any extra, but I get a small amount of commission from the sale.
FAQ
Is Salzburg worth visiting at Christmas
Yes, Salzburg is absolutely worth visiting at Christmas. The city feels incredibly festive, the setting is beautiful and the Christmas markets are some of the most traditional in Austria. With the old town, fortress views and alpine backdrop, it feels like a proper winter fairytale.
When do the Christmas markets open in Salzburg
Most Christmas markets in Salzburg open in late November and run until Christmas Eve, with some staying open into early January. The exact dates can vary slightly each year, but late November and early December are ideal for visiting.
How cold is Salzburg in December
Salzburg is cold in December, with daytime temperatures usually hovering around zero to five degrees. Snow is common, especially in the evenings, which adds to the festive feel. Warm layers, a good coat and proper shoes make all the difference.
Are the Christmas markets open on Christmas Day
Most Christmas markets close early on Christmas Eve and remain closed on Christmas Day. Some reopen for a few days between Christmas and New Year, but it is best to enjoy them before the 25th.
How many days do I need in Salzburg at Christmas
Two days is perfect for Salzburg at Christmas. This gives you enough time to explore the old town, visit the main Christmas markets and enjoy the festive atmosphere without rushing.
Is Salzburg crowded at Christmas
Salzburg can be busy in December, especially at weekends and in the evenings. Visiting earlier in the day or midweek makes the experience feel much calmer and more relaxed.
Is Salzburg expensive at Christmas
Salzburg can feel a little pricey compared to some other cities, especially for accommodation in December. Food and Christmas market prices are fairly standard for Austria, so planning ahead helps keep costs down.
Do I need cash for the Christmas markets
Many stalls accept card payments, but some smaller vendors still prefer cash. It is always handy to carry a small amount of euros for food and drinks.
What should I wear in Salzburg at Christmas
Warm, comfortable clothing is essential. A thick coat, gloves, scarf and waterproof shoes will keep you comfortable while exploring the markets, especially if there is snow or ice.
