Salzburg shines brightest during Christmas season, when this compact Austrian city transforms into a winter wonderland. You’ll find the authentic heart of Alpine Christmas here: take a traditional horse-drawn sleigh ride through snow-dusted countryside, visit the original Silent Night Chapel in nearby Oberndorf, or join locals making Lebkuchen (traditional gingerbread) in centuries-old bakeries. We especially love the intimate evening concerts at Hohensalzburg Fortress, where Mozart classics echo through medieval halls, and the historic Christkindlmarkt, Austria’s oldest Christmas market. The best guided experiences combine these highlights with local insights and skip-the-line access. Check our selected tours to experience Salzburg’s finest Christmas traditions.
Key Points
- A highly-rated 2-hour horse-drawn sleigh ride through the serene Salzach River Valley, reaching an elevation of 3,281 feet at Dachstein mountain.
- A 4-hour tour to Oberndorf Chapel, where participants engage in Christmas festivities and sing “Silent Night” in multiple languages.
- A daily cooking lesson to learn how to bake classic Austrian Christmas treats like goulash and apple strudel.
- A 1.5-hour Christmas concert at the historic Fortress Hohensalzburg, featuring works by renowned composers.
- A comprehensive Salzburg Christmas market and city tour, exploring the city’s yuletide traditions and visiting the cathedral where “Silent Night” was written.
Christmas Horse-Drawn Sleigh Ride From Salzburg
From the vibrant city of Salzburg, travelers can embark on a delightful Christmas horse-drawn sleigh ride that takes them through the serene landscapes of the Salzach River Valley.
This highly-rated 4.6-star experience enjoys a 92% traveler recommendation, offering a day trip to Ramsau near Schladming. Ascending to 3,281 feet at the Dachstein mountain, the 2-hour sleigh ride promises scenic views and a cozy atmosphere with blankets.
The journey also includes a lunch stop at a local inn, where visitors can savor regional specialties like apple strudel and wiener schnitzel.
With free cancellation and high customer satisfaction, this Christmas sleigh ride is an enchanting winter adventure.
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Silent Night Oberndorf Christmas Eve Tour From Salzburg
Travelers can embark on a captivating 4-hour Silent Night Oberndorf Christmas Eve Tour from Salzburg.
The tour takes visitors along snow-lined Alpine pathways to the Oberndorf Chapel, where the famous carol “Silent Night” was first performed. Participants will engage in Christmas festivities and have the opportunity to hear and sing the beloved hymn in multiple languages.
The tour includes a knowledgeable guide and access to the chapel, which has limited capacity due to its small size.
Though non-folding wheelchairs and pets aren’t allowed, the overall experience is highly rated, with the guide and transportation receiving strong reviews from previous customers.
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Salzburg Christmas Cookies and Apple Strudel Cooking Lesson
Visitors to Salzburg can enjoy the city’s festive culinary traditions by participating in a Salzburg Christmas Cookies and Apple Strudel Cooking Lesson.
The highly-rated activity, with a 97% recommendation rate, takes place daily and allows up to 15 travelers to learn the art of baking classic Austrian treats.
The lesson includes making goulash, freshly baked apple strudel, and vanilla cookies, as well as enjoying the fruits of their labor during an included lunch.
While some found the class not hands-on enough, most participants praised the knowledgeable instructors and the memorable family-friendly experience.
This activity is an ideal way to embrace Salzburg’s Christmas spirit.
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Christmas Concert at Fortress Hohensalzburg
Nestled within the iconic Fortress Hohensalzburg, the enchanting Christmas Concert offers visitors a delightful musical journey through the Advent season.
Spanning 1.5 hours, the concert features a captivating program of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart‘s masterpieces, as well as works by Haydn, Schubert, and Dvořák.
Performed by the renowned Salzburger Mozart Ensemble and Mozart Chamber Orchestra, the concert promises a magical experience against the backdrop of the historic fortress.
While the venue’s accessibility may pose challenges for some, the free funicular ride and smart casual dress code add to the event’s allure.
With limited tickets available, early booking is advised to secure a spot at this likely sell-out performance.
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Salzburg Christmas Market & City Tour
As one explores the festive Salzburg Christmas Market & City Tour, the enchanting markets come alive with the scent of mulled wine and the sounds of traditional carols.
Rated 4.8 out of 5 and recommended by 100% of travelers, this tour offers the chance to experience Salzburg’s rich Christmas traditions.
Visitors can explore multiple markets, hear stories about Austrian customs, and visit the cathedral where “Silent Night” was written.
The tour also includes a visit to the Christmas Museum and a free gingerbread tasting, along with the opportunity to purchase gifts and snacks.
With a maximum group size of 10, the tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, making it an inclusive and memorable experience.
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Salzburg: Christmas Advent Concert With Dinner
Perched atop the Hohensalzburg Fortress, the Christmas Advent Concert with Dinner offers visitors a captivating experience that seamlessly blends the enchanting sounds of classical music with the delightful flavors of a gourmet meal.
Lasting 3.5 hours, this event features performances by the Mozart Chamber Orchestra of Salzburg, showcasing works by renowned composers such as Mozart, Haydn, and Schubert.
Dinner options include classic and VIP menus, catering to various dietary preferences.
With stunning views of Salzburg from the 900-year-old fortress, this event is sure to delight both music enthusiasts and foodies.
Advance booking is recommended, as the concert is likely to sell out quickly.
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Salzburg Christmas Eve Tour to the Silent Night Chapel
For those seeking a truly authentic Christmas Eve experience in Salzburg, the 4-hour tour to the Silent Night Chapel in Oberndorf is a must-do.
Departing from Salzburg at 3 PM, the tour takes travelers on a guided coach journey through the snow-covered Austrian Alps before arriving at the historic chapel, the birthplace of the beloved carol “Silent Night.”
Participants can attend a multilingual Christmas Eve mass, sing carols outside the chapel, and explore the nearby Christmas markets.
While the tour has received mixed reviews, with some concerns about overcrowding and organization, it offers a unique opportunity to take in the magic of the holiday season.
Read our full review: Salzburg Christmas Eve Tour to the Silent Night Chapel Review
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Salzburg: Christmas Market Magic With a Local
Salzburg’s Christmas markets are an enchanting winter wonderland, where the scent of mulled wine and gingerbread wafts through the air.
Enjoy the festive magic with a local guide on a 1-hour tour. Priced at SEK 1,319 per person, this small-group experience (limited to 8 participants) offers a chance to discover Salzburg’s true essence, learn about cherished local traditions, and indulge in delectable culinary treats.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a “reserve now, pay later” option, you can easily adapt your travel plans.
Don’t miss this opportunity to have a personalized, intimate glimpse into Salzburg’s Christmas celebrations.
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Salzburg Christmas Market Tour
Discover the heart of Salzburg’s Christmas charm on a captivating 1.5-hour tour of the city’s renowned Christkindlmarkt.
Priced at just $236.46 for groups up to 15, this experience immerses you in one of the world’s oldest markets dating back to the 15th century.
Explore the diverse range of unique handmade arts and crafts, exquisite traditional Christmas decorations, and the cozy marketplaces throughout the city.
Ranked among Austria’s top Christmas market destinations, the tour is led by a local guide exclusive to your group, allowing for possible customization to suit your interests.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, reserve now and pay later for this enchanting Salzburg adventure.
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The Sum Up
Salzburg offers a variety of magical Christmas experiences, from cozy sleigh rides and festive cooking lessons to enchanting concerts and market tours. Whether you’re exploring the charming Christmas markets, enjoying the region’s musical heritage, or indulging in local culinary delights, there’s something to enchant every visitor during the holiday season in this enchanting Austrian city.