When the lights glitter over the Salzach River during Advent, the scent of punch wafts through the alleys, and the towers of Salzburg are bathed in a warm light – then it is Advent in SalzburgWe visited four Christmas markets in Salzburg for you: the classic market at the Cathedral and Residence Square, the delightful market at Mirabell Square, the romantic Advent market at Hellbrunn Palace, and – as a special highlight – the atmospheric Advent market at Hohensalzburg Fortress. Each of these markets has its own history, atmosphere, and unique features.
Christmas market at the Cathedral and Residence Square – the urban classic
The large Christmas market around Cathedral Square and Residence Square is one of Salzburg's most traditional markets. As early as the 15th century, furs, candles, and small gifts were traded here – today, it attracts visitors with arts and crafts stalls, gingerbread, mulled wine, and plenty of Advent atmosphere.
We stroll through the old streets on an early evening, stop in front of a stall with wooden nativity figures, breathe in the scent of baked apples and listen to the ringing of the cathedral bells – it is in moments like these that Salzburg becomes a culinary destination for Advent.
👉 Tip:If you come during the week, it's much quieter than on the weekend.
Opening hours (2025): 20.11.2025 – 01.01.2026, daily (Mon–Thu 10–20:30, Fri 10–21, Sat 9–21, Sun/Public Holiday 9–20:30)
Hotel recommendations in the old town (advertisement)
- Budget: Old Town Hotel Hofwirt Salzburg *
- middle class: Hotel Elefant Family Business *
- Premium: Hotel Goldener Hirsch *, a Luxury Collection Hotel
👉 Discover the Salzburg Christmas Market in detail with us.
Christmas market at Mirabellplatz – small, charming and delightful
The market at Mirabellplatz is located somewhat away from the main hustle and bustle – directly in front of Mirabell Palace – and offers a more compact, quieter atmosphere with a focus on both crafts and culinary delights. According to current information for 2025: November 20, 2025 – December 31, 2025.
We drank hot apple punch on a December afternoon, listened to a small brass ensemble, and browsed the wooden toy exhibitors – the market feels particularly authentic and locally rooted.
Tip: Perfect for families or slow travelers who don't want to be part of the crowd.
Opening hours (2025): Sun–Thu 10am–20pm, Fri/Sat 10am–21pm, 24.12. 10am–15pm.
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- Cooking class “Salzburg specialties” *
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Hellbrunn Advent Magic – the romantic getaway
Just outside the old town lies Hellbrunn Palace – and there you'll find one of Salzburg's most atmospheric Christmas markets. Nestled in a fairytale forest with hundreds of decorated fir trees, a petting zoo, a winter train, and a bonfire, this Advent excursion is one of the most beautiful moments of the season for us.
Opening hours (2025): 20.11.2025 – 24.12.2025, Tue–Fri 13–20 pm, Sat/Sun/8.12. 10 am–20 pm, 24.12. 10 am–14 pm
👉 TipBus line 25 will take you there comfortably from the old town – ideal for a quiet afternoon.
👉 Learn more about the Christmas market at Hellbrunn Palace here.
Fortress Advent at Hohensalzburg Fortress – one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Salzburg
The market at Hohensalzburg Fortress is one of Salzburg's most spectacular Advent experiences – high above the city, in the historic castle courtyard, surrounded by over a hundred Moravian stars and with a view over the sea of lights in the old town.
We recommend: come around mid-afternoon when the lights come on, take time to enjoy the view over the city, and savor punch and tarte flambée from the historic oven in the bakery part of the castle.
Opening hours (2025): 21.11.2025 – 21.12.2025 (Fri, Sat, Sun 11am–19pm)
👉 Tip: Altitude over 500 meters – plan for good weather and plenty of time, don't forget warm clothing!
Panoramic accommodation in the center * (advertisement)
- Hotel Stein Salzburg * (with a view of the fortress)
- Altstadthotel Kasererbräu * near Festungsberg
- Boutique hotel near the cathedral * with terrace view
👉 Learn more about the Advent market at Hohensalzburg Fortress here.
The best time to visit the Christmas markets in Salzburg is during the week.
We are there during the week to enjoy the market. This way, we also avoid the crowd at the weekend. A good decision, as it turns out. So we can stroll comfortably over the market and look at the Santa Claus. Even the Fiaker drivers take time for a chat with us while they wait for customers in front of the residence.
A driver, whose horse-drawn carriage is decorated for Christmas with a lantern and red ribbon, tells us how difficult her job is. She explains that she needs special training to drive a carriage through the city. "And what do you do if, despite all your precautions, the horses bolt in the hectic traffic?" I ask her curiously. "There's nothing you can do," she says, laughing. "Then there's nothing you can do." When I ask if that ever happens, she laughs mischievously and nods.
Arrival & tips for your visit to the Christmas markets in Salzburg
Salzburg is easily accessible by train (e.g., from Germany) or car. A two-day stay is sufficient for the markets in the old town – with an overnight stay in the evening when the city and markets are bathed in a festive glow. You should plan an additional half day for Hellbrunn Palace or the fortress.
Recommendations:
- Comfortable shoes & warm clothing Take it with you (especially at the fortress)
- Best time to visit: preferably during the week or early in the evening.
- For a leisurely stroll instead of hectic activity: start early, no hectic stops.
- Discover Salzburg specialties
Sustainable Advent magic at the Christmas markets in Salzburg
At all markets, you'll increasingly find exhibitors offering regional products, fair trade crafts, and sustainable production. The Mirabellplatz market and the Advent market at the fortress are particularly committed to this: many items come directly from Salzburg or the surrounding area.
Conclusion on the four Christmas markets in Salzburg
Salzburg in Advent is an experience full of atmosphere, culinary delights and tradition – four markets, four facets:
- Cathedral & Residence Square: an urban classic
- Mirabellplatz: blissful tranquility
- Hellbrunn: a romantic excursion
- Hohensalzburg Fortress: Panorama & Magic
If you visit these four, you'll experience Advent in Salzburg in all its diversity – and take home wonderful impressions.
FAQs about the four Christmas markets in Salzburg
When do the Christmas markets in Salzburg begin?
For 2025, the major markets usually open from November 20th and run until January.
Which Christmas markets in Salzburg are particularly recommended?
The four markets presented: Cathedral Square & Residence Square, Mirabell Square, Hellbrunn, Hohensalzburg Fortress.
Are there any sustainable or artisanal markets?
Yes. You'll find authentic crafts and regional products, especially at Mirabellplatz and Hohensalzburg Fortress.
What's the best way to get to the markets?
The markets in the old town are within walking distance of the train station. You can reach Hellbrunn via bus line 25; you can either walk to the fortress or take the "Fortress Railway".
Travel Arrangements:
Getting to the four Christmas markets in Salzburg
Compare and book flights here*(Advertisement) Lufthansa, Austrian Airlines, and other airlines fly to Salzburg. It is also possible to travel to Salzburg by train. Long-distance buses also serve Salzburg.
Car Rentals:
Cheap rental cars – book here!
Accommodation in Salzburg for visiting the four Christmas markets in Salzburg
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Our travel tips for Salzburg
We've also tested these travel tips ourselves. Perhaps there's something there for you?
More things to know
- Hellbrunn Palace Salzburg and its trick fountains
- Where can you eat well in Salzburg restaurants?
- Hotel am Mirabellplatz
- Salzburg landmarks
Source: Four Christmas markets in Salzburg: On-site research. We financed some of these visits ourselves, while Salzburg Tourism invited us to others. We would like to thank Salzburg Tourism for the invitation to this trip. However, our opinions remain our own.
Text Christmas markets in Salzburg: © Copyright Monika Fuchs and TWO
Photos: © Copyright Monika Fuchs and TWO
Video: © Copyright Petar Fuchs and TWO
