Salzburg transforms into a winter wonderland during the Christmas season, with centuries-old traditions still going strong. The historic Fortress Hohensalzburg hosts some of Europe’s finest Mozart and Christmas concerts, performed in authentic period settings. The city’s Christmas markets are simply the best – less commercial and more authentic than other European destinations.
I especially love the intimate walking tours through Zell Am See’s markets, where local guides share insider stories and hidden spots away from tourist crowds. The Silent Night Chapel tour on Christmas Eve is particularly moving, connecting visitors to the origins of the famous carol.
For a genuine Austrian Christmas experience, don’t miss Kaprun’s cozy market tours, complete with steaming mugs of Glühwein (mulled wine). Day trips to Munich and Vienna’s markets offer great comparison, but Salzburg remains my favorite.
Let’s explore the most rewarding Christmas experiences in Salzburg.
Good To Know
Attend timeless Mozart and Advent/Christmas concerts at the Fortress Hohensalzburg, where the surreal music and setting create a magical holiday experience.
Immerse in the festive atmosphere of the Salzburg Christmas market on a small-group walking tour, exploring local treats and hot beverages.
Set out on a private Christmas daytrip from Salzburg to nearby cities like Munich or Vienna, customizing the sightseeing stops for a personalized experience.
Discover the Christmas magic of Zell am See and Kaprun on private walking tours, showcasing the enchanting festive decorations and local traditions.
Indulge in a hands-on Christmas cooking class to learn how to make traditional Austrian cookies and apple strudel, or enjoy a scenic horse-drawn sleigh ride along the Salzach River Valley.
Mozart and Advent/Christmas Concerts at the Fortress Hohensalzburg
The Mozart and Advent/Christmas concerts at Fortress Hohensalzburg in Salzburg, Austria, transport visitors to a bygone era.
These concerts feature the timeless music of Mozart and his contemporaries, performed in the elegant surroundings of the historic fortress. Priced from $43.13 per person, the concerts provide a unique festive experience, with pre-booked tickets guaranteeing admission and round-trip transfers on the Fortress Railway.
While the venue isn’t wheelchair accessible, the smart casual dress code and proximity to public transportation make it easily accessible.
With an overall rating of 4.1 out of 8 reviews, the concerts are described as magical and surreal, offering the opportunity to explore the fortress and enjoy a glass of wine before the performance.
Read our full review: Mozart and Advent/Christmas Concerts at the Fortress Hohensalzburg Review
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Zell Am See Christmas Magic: a Private Walking Tour
Although Zell am See is less than an hour’s drive from Salzburg, this private walking tour allows visitors to enjoy the charming Christmas atmosphere of this picturesque alpine town.
Rated 5.0 based on one review, the tour takes guests on a guided exploration of Zell am See’s Stadtplatz and Elisabethpark, highlighting the town’s festive decorations and lively holiday markets.
Priced from $207.04 per person, the private tour is led by a professional local guide and can be booked with free cancellation up to 24 hours prior.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for most travelers and conveniently located near public transportation.
Read our full review: Zell Am See Christmas Magic: a Private Walking Tour Review
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Discover Salzburg’S Christmas Market Magic With a Local
Salzburg’s Christmas market magic beckons visitors to discover the city’s festive charm with a knowledgeable local guide.
This small-group experience, limited to 8 travelers, offers a walking tour showcasing the market’s highlights and local treats. Guests will begin at the iconic Residenzbrunnen fountain, then explore the market, savoring a hot beverage and tasty local treat.
The tour concludes near the Residenz Palace, providing easy access to continue exploring the city’s enchanting holiday festivities.
While not wheelchair-accessible, the tour is stroller-friendly and accessible via public transportation.
With prices starting at €114 per person, this immersive experience allows visitors to enjoy Salzburg’s Christmas market magic.
Read our full review: Discover Salzburg’S Christmas Market Magic With a Local Review
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Salzburg Christmas Eve Tour to the Silent Night Chapel
Travelers seeking a deeper connection to Salzburg’s Christmas traditions often choose the Salzburg Christmas Eve Tour to the Silent Night Chapel.
This 4-hour excursion takes guests through the snow-covered Austrian Alps to the historic Silent Night Chapel in Oberndorf. Along the way, they’ll visit the Gruber School Silent Night Museum and enjoy mulled wine.
The highlight is attending the multilingual Christmas Eve Mass at the chapel, where visitors can sing carols with fellow travelers.
While the tour has received mixed reviews, it’s an opportunity to experience Salzburg’s rich Christmas heritage during the most magical time of year.
Dress warmly, as the outdoor event can be chilly.
Read our full review: Salzburg Christmas Eve Tour to the Silent Night Chapel Review
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Private Tour: Salzburg Christmas Markets
This private tour takes visitors on an immersive exploration of Salzburg’s renowned Christmas markets.
Over the course of 4 hours, guests will visit three festive markets – St Jakob am Thurn, Hellbrun, and St Leonhard.
Along the way, they’ll sample local delicacies like Glühwein, roasted chestnuts, and warm waffles.
A professional guide provides historical context, bringing the markets’ traditions to life.
Hotel pickup and drop-off are included, while food, drinks, and gratuities are at the traveler’s own expense.
This tour isn’t wheelchair accessible but is suitable for most visitors.
With a perfect 5-star rating based on a single review, it promises an authentic and memorable Salzburg Christmas experience.
Read our full review: Private Tour: Salzburg Christmas Markets Review
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Mozart and Advent/Christmas Concert With Dinner at Fortress Hohensalzburg
For those seeking to enjoy Salzburg’s festive spirit, the Mozart and Advent/Christmas Concert with Dinner at Fortress Hohensalzburg offers a truly unforgettable experience.
Set in the stunning Panorama Restaurant, guests can enjoy a delectable meal while taking in breathtaking views of the city.
The evening program features a captivating classical music performance, with Mozart and traditional Christmas carols bringing the historic setting to life.
With VIP and GOLDEN VIP packages available, travelers can tailor their experience to their preferences, with inclusions like a glass of sparkling wine and additional refreshments.
Whether you’re a couple or a cultural enthusiast, this event promises a memorable Christmastime in Salzburg.
Read our full review: Mozart and Advent/Christmas Concert With Dinner at Fortress Hohensalzburg Review
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Salzburg Christmas Market & City Tour
Salzburg’s Christmas market-and-city excursion provides visitors a chance to enjoy the city’s festive spirit.
This 4.8-rated tour, recommended by 100% of travelers, showcases Salzburg’s multiple Christmas markets, allowing guests to shop for gifts and sample traditional snacks.
Along the way, the knowledgeable guide shares stories about Austria’s Christmas traditions. Highlights include visiting the cathedral where “Silent Night” was written, the Christmas Museum, and receiving a free gingerbread tasting and Christmas mug.
With a maximum of 10 travelers per tour, this wheelchair-accessible experience offers an intimate look at Salzburg’s holiday charm. Priced at $312.71 per person, the tour operates year-round, though travelers advise avoiding weekends due to crowds.
Read our full review: Salzburg Christmas Market & City Tour Review
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Salzburg Christmas Cookies and Apple Strudel Cooking Lesson
Visitors to Salzburg can deepen their understanding of Austrian culinary traditions by participating in a hands-on Christmas cookies and apple strudel cooking class.
The 3-hour experience focuses on preparing two iconic treats: traditional Austrian apple strudel and Vanilla Kipferl cookies. Participants will learn the techniques for making these festive delicacies from scratch.
The class also includes enjoying a hot goulash soup for lunch and taking home any leftover cookies.
With daily classes, hotel pick-up, and a 96% recommendation rate, this is an immersive and enjoyable way to discover Salzburg’s Christmas food culture.
Read our full review: Salzburg Christmas Cookies and Apple Strudel Cooking Lesson Review
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Christmas Horse-Drawn Sleigh Ride From Salzburg
Travelers seeking to enjoy the enchanting winter wonderland of Salzburg can embark on a magical Christmas horse-drawn sleigh ride.
Departing from Salzburg, the tour whisks guests along the Salzach River Valley, ascending to the base of the Dachstein mountain. The 2-hour sleigh ride features cozy blankets, the jingle of bells, and opportunities for snow play.
With a 92% recommendation rate from 146 reviews, this tour has earned a Badge of Excellence. After the sleigh ride, guests can relax over regional specialties like apple strudel and wiener schnitzel at local inns.
An excellent choice for a festive and scenic winter adventure in Salzburg.
Read our full review: Christmas Horse-Drawn Sleigh Ride From Salzburg Review
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Christmas Joy in Salzburg – Private Walking Tour
What better way to experience the magic of Christmas in Salzburg than on a private walking tour that unveils the city’s enchanting yuletide traditions?
Costing from $258.79 per person, this 3-hour tour led by a professional local guide takes you through the picturesque streets and landmarks of Salzburg.
You’ll start at Mirabellplatz, home to the iconic Mirabell Palace, and end at the magnificent Fortress Hohensalzburg.
Along the way, you’ll discover the city’s festive sights, sounds, and customs.
This private tour is accessible to most travelers, though it’s not recommended for pregnant guests or those using wheelchairs.
Secure your spot with a reservation and pay later to enjoy the Christmas joy in Salzburg.
Read our full review: Christmas Joy in Salzburg – Private Walking Tour Review
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Christmas Private Daytrip – Salzburg to Munich & Back, English Speaking Driver
A Christmas private daytrip from Salzburg to Munich and back provides travelers with a seamless way to explore the enchanting cityscapes of both cities during the festive season.
The trip includes a private two-way transfer in a clean, air-conditioned vehicle with a friendly English-speaking driver who shares their knowledge along the way. Travelers can expect bottled water, hotel/airport pickup and drop-off, and all fees and taxes included.
The tour is accessible, catering to various needs, and can be customized to include preferred sightseeing stops.
Booking details offer flexibility, with free cancellation and a pay-later option, making this daytrip an attractive option for those seeking a personalized Christmas experience.
Read our full review: Christmas Private Daytrip – Salzburg to Munich & Back, English Speaking Driver Review
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Private Christmas Market Tour in Salzburg
This private Christmas market tour in Salzburg takes visitors on a captivating journey through the city’s enchanting holiday festivities.
Led by a dedicated local guide, the tour offers customizable options to suit your interests.
Starting and ending at the Domplatz, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible but stroller-friendly.
With a price of $227.62 for groups of up to 15 participants, the tour provides an intimate and personalized Christmas experience.
Confirmation is received at booking, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.
Don’t miss this likely-to-sell-out opportunity to learn about Salzburg’s magical Christmas atmosphere.
Read our full review: Private Christmas Market Tour in Salzburg Review
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Magic Christmas Tour in Kaprun
The Magic Christmas Tour in Kaprun offers a captivating journey through the enchanting holiday festivities of this picturesque Austrian town. Priced from $538.08 per group (up to 10), the tour takes visitors on a guided exploration, starting at the Pfarrkirche Heilige Margaretha and ending at the historic Burg Kaprun.
Along the way, guests can indulge in traditional Christmas punch or glühwein. The tour is private, allowing only your group to participate. While not recommended for pregnant travelers or those in wheelchairs, most visitors can enjoy this magical experience.
With a professional local guide, a lowest price guarantee, and easy access to public transportation, the Magic Christmas Tour in Kaprun promises an unforgettable holiday adventure.
Read our full review: Magic Christmas Tour in Kaprun Review
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Christmas Private Daytrip – Salzburg to Vienna & Back, English Speaking Driver
Embarking on a Christmas Private Daytrip from Salzburg to Vienna provides travelers with an exceptional opportunity to explore the festive charms of both cities in a single day.
This 4-5 hour sightseeing tour includes round-trip transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle with an English-speaking driver. Explore Vienna’s picturesque holiday markets, historic landmarks, and enjoy a lunch break.
The tour includes all taxes, fees, and bottled water. Pickup and drop-off are available from your hotel, accommodation, or the airport.
The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and infants can be accommodated. With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a lowest price guarantee, this is a convenient and flexible Christmas experience.
Read our full review: Christmas Private Daytrip – Salzburg to Vienna & Back, English Speaking Driver Review
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The Sum Up
Salzburg offers a magical Christmas experience. From the historic Hohensalzburg Fortress to the lively Christmas markets, there’s something for all. Visitors can explore the city’s festive traditions on private tours, or venture to nearby destinations like Zell Am See and Kaprun. Whether you’re looking for concerts, markets, or a day trip, Salzburg delivers the perfect Christmas getaway.