Salzburg Christkindlmarkt: Advent in Mozart's city

Salzburg's Christkindlmarkt fills the Cathedral Square and Residence Square in the baroque old town. With the fortress lit above and choirs singing below, it is one of the most atmospheric Advent markets in Austria.

Fun facts

• The carol Silent Night was first performed in 1818 in Oberndorf, a short trip from Salzburg.
• The market sits in Salzburg's historic centre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Salzburg is the birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart.

What to see

• Salzburg Cathedral with its baroque facade.
• Hohensalzburg Fortress, reached by funicular above the old town.
• Getreidegasse with its old wrought-iron shop signs.

What to taste

• Bosna, a spicy Salzburg-style hot dog with onions.
• Kiachl, fried dough served with sauerkraut or jam.
• Punsch and Glühwein from the market stalls.

What to do

• Listen to the Advent singing on the squares in the evenings.
• Take a trip to the Silent Night Chapel in Oberndorf.
• Visit Hellbrunn Palace, which hosts its own Advent market.

💡 Tip: Trolleybuses run from Salzburg Airport to the old town in about 20 minutes, and Munich Airport is a practical alternative with train connections. Weekends in December are crowded with day visitors, so plan weekdays and book hotels early.