Salzburg becomes truly magical during the Christmas season. Its centuries-old markets, stunning baroque architecture, and the chance to experience classic Austrian traditions make it a top destination for holiday travelers. Whether you’re browsing handcrafted ornaments, sipping mulled wine at a Christmas market, or enjoying an enchanting concert in a castle, Salzburg’s festive spirit is contagious. We particularly love the Salzburg Christmas Cookies and Apple Strudel Cooking Lesson, because it offers a hands-on taste of Austrian holiday baking—plus a hearty lunch—making it a memorable and delicious way to celebrate. Or, if you prefer the magic of music, the Christmas/Advent Concert & Dinner in Fortress Hohensalzburg combines cultural richness with stunning views.
Salzburg is the perfect city for Christmas: its combination of historic charm, festive markets, and musical performances creates a holiday atmosphere unlike any other. You can explore lively markets, enjoy world-class concerts, or simply stroll the snow-dusted streets. No matter your style, there’s a Christmas experience in Salzburg that will make your holiday unforgettable.
1. Salzburg Christmas Cookies and Apple Strudel Cooking Lesson
At number one, this Christmas cookies and apple strudel cooking lesson offers a delightful mix of holiday fun and culinary tradition. For about $67, you’ll spend roughly 90 minutes in a cozy Salzburg kitchen learning how to make the iconic Austrian apple strudel from scratch and Vanilla Kipferl cookies, a classic Christmas treat. Led by a friendly instructor, you’ll get hands-on experience in preparing these festive delicacies while sharing holiday cheer with fellow travelers. The activity includes a hearty lunch with hot goulash soup, ideal for warming up after baking. The reviews highlight how well-organized and fun this experience is, with visitors noting the recipes and techniques learned—many plan to recreate these treats at home. This tour is perfect for food lovers who want a genuine taste of Austrian Christmas traditions and a memorable, interactive experience.
Bottom line: If you enjoy cooking and want a relaxed, festive atmosphere, this class is a sweet way to spend part of your Salzburg Christmas.
2. Salzburg Christmas Market & City Tour
Number two is the Salzburg Christmas Market & City Tour. For around $332, this roughly two-hour tour immerses you in Salzburg’s most iconic holiday markets. Your guide will lead you through several markets, sharing stories about local Christmas traditions, Salzburg’s salt trade, and the significance of the Salzburg Cathedral. You’ll also visit the Christmas Museum and see the church where ‘Silent Night’ was written. The tour includes a free Salzburg Christmas mug and gingerbread tasting, adding to the festive cheer. Reviewers praise the guide’s local insights and the opportunity to explore lesser-known spots, making this a great choice for those who want a taste of the city’s holiday spirit alongside cultural history.
Bottom line: This tour offers a well-rounded, immersive experience, perfect for those who want to combine sightseeing with Christmas traditions.
3. Salzburg: Christmas/Advent Concert & Dinner
A grand evening awaits with this Christmas/Advent Concert & Dinner, priced at around $93. For 3.5 hours, you’ll enjoy a concert in Salzburg’s fortress, with breathtaking views of the city. The program features works by Mozart, interpreted by renowned soloists, and a delicious dinner served at the panoramic restaurant. The concert’s setting inside Fortress Hohensalzburg is spectacular, with many reviews emphasizing the romantic atmosphere and quality music. Guests recommend booking ahead to secure the best seats, especially for the popular VIP options. The combination of music, stunning scenery, and fine dining makes this a memorable Christmas experience for couples or music lovers.
Bottom line: For a refined, cultural evening with a stunning backdrop, this concert and dinner combo is hard to beat.
4. Salzburg: Christmas/Advent Concert at Fortress Hohensalzburg
Number four is the Christmas/Advent Concert at Fortress Hohensalzburg, a 1.5-hour event for around $49. It offers an intimate concert experience high above the city, with music from Mozart and his contemporaries. The fortress setting adds a sense of occasion, and the view of Salzburg at night is unforgettable. Reviewers love the exceptional performances and the magical atmosphere. Some mention that seating can be disappointing if not pre-booked for certain packages, so advance planning is recommended. This concert is ideal for travelers seeking a straightforward, high-quality musical event surrounded by historic walls.
Bottom line: If you’re after a cozy, musically rich experience with spectacular views, this concert delivers a true holiday highlight.
5. Salzburg: Christmas Concert at Mirabell Palace
Number five brings us to the Christmas Concert at Mirabell Palace. For about $48, you get a 90-minute performance of classical music in the stunning Marble Hall where Mozart himself once performed. The concert features pieces like “The Sleigh-Ride” by Mozart, Vivaldi’s “Winter,” and Corelli’s “Christmas Concert,” performed by ensemble 1756 or the Salzburger Mozart Consort. Reviewers describe the music as passionate and the venue as beautifully historic, creating a genuine festive atmosphere. This experience is best suited for classical music lovers and those seeking an authentic Salzburg cultural moment during Christmas.
Bottom line: For a taste of Mozart’s Salzburg, this enchanting concert in a historic palace is a top choice.
6. Mozart and Advent/Christmas Concerts at Fortress Hohensalzburg
Number six is the Mozart and Advent/Christmas Concert at Fortress Hohensalzburg. For $49.55, you’ll enjoy a 90-minute concert set in the fortress, featuring Mozart and his contemporaries. The ascent on the Fortress Railway and the view over Salzburg make this a special event, with reviews praising the atmosphere and quality of the music. It’s a perfect option for those who want a festive concert with a scenic backdrop, especially if you appreciate the historic fortress surroundings.
Bottom line: An elegant and scenic way to celebrate the season with classical music in a memorable setting.
7. Christmas Joy in Salzburg – Private Walking Tour
Number seven offers a personalized Christmas Joy Private Walking Tour, lasting about 3 hours for approximately $278. You’ll stroll through the beautifully decorated Mirabellplatz, Residenzplatz, and Getreidegasse, visiting the Mozart Birth House, Domplatz, and Kapitelplatz, with spectacular views from the Salzburg Fortress. The guide provides insights into local Christmas traditions and history, bringing the city’s festive spirit to life. This tour is ideal for travelers who want an in-depth, flexible experience with a local guide, with personalized attention to your interests.
Bottom line: Perfect for those who want a comprehensive, intimate exploration of Salzburg’s holiday atmosphere.
$278.07 per person
8. Mozart and Advent/Christmas Concert with Dinner at Fortress Hohensalzburg
Number eight features the Mozart and Advent/Christmas Concert with Dinner. For around $97, enjoy a lavish dinner at the Panorama Restaurant atop Fortress Hohensalzburg before attending a classical concert. The meal, combined with the spectacular views and the concert of Mozart’s works and Christmas carols, creates an elegant evening. Reviewers appreciate the seamless experience and the high-quality entertainment. It’s well suited for couples or anyone wanting a full evening of culture, cuisine, and scenic beauty.
Bottom line: A sophisticated choice for those looking to combine fine dining with top-tier music in a historic setting.
9. Silent Night Oberndorf Christmas Eve Tour from Salzburg
Number nine is the Silent Night Oberndorf Christmas Eve Tour. For about $74, you’ll experience the special atmosphere in the small chapel where “Silent Night” was first performed. This four-hour tour includes a walk through snowy Alpine scenery, singing Silent Night in multiple languages, and learning about the song’s history. It’s a meaningful, peaceful way to spend Christmas Eve, especially for those who love music and tradition. Reviewers mention the guide’s knowledge and how the experience captures the true spirit of Christmas.
Bottom line: If you’re seeking a heartfelt, musical Christmas experience, this tour offers a quiet, deeply meaningful celebration.
$74 per person
10. Salzburg Christmas Market Tour
Number ten is the Salzburg Christmas Market Tour. Lasting about 90 minutes, this tour explores the city’s oldest markets dating back to the 15th century. You’ll stroll through the Nikolaimarkt and other markets, discovering handmade crafts and traditional decorations. Your guide will share stories about Salzburg’s Christmas customs, making it perfect for lovers of tradition and local culture. Reviewers note how engaging the guide is and how the tour provides a genuine taste of Salzburg’s holiday scene.
Bottom line: Ideal for those who want to dive into the city’s Christmas traditions with a knowledgeable local.
11. Private Christmas Tour to Hallstatt and Salzburg Market
Number eleven is the Private Christmas Tour to Hallstatt and Salzburg Market. This 13-hour day trip costs around $625 and includes visits to both Hallstatt and Salzburg’s markets. You’ll see Hallstatt’s decorated streets and Christmas markets, along with Salzburg’s Christkindlmarkt. The tour is perfect for travelers seeking an immersive, full-day experience of Austria’s most beautiful Christmas towns, with personalized attention from your guide. Reviews highlight the seamless logistics and the festive ambiance in both locations.
Bottom line: Best for travelers who want a comprehensive, private experience of Austria’s Christmas villages.
$625 per person
12. Salzburg Christmas Market & City Highlights Evening Tour
Number twelve is the Salzburg Christmas Market & City Highlights Evening Tour. For $705, this 3-hour tour combines a walk through the illuminated markets with visits to historical sites like Salzburg Cathedral, Residenzplatz, and Kapitelplatz. The evening ambiance highlights the city’s Baroque splendor, with beautiful lighting and festive decorations. The guide shares stories about Salzburg’s Christmas traditions, creating a warm holiday atmosphere. It’s a luxurious way to see the city’s highlights under festive lights.
Bottom line: For those seeking a comprehensive, elegant evening tour rooted in Salzburg’s Christmas charm, this is an excellent choice.
$705 per person
13. Salzburg: Christmas Market Magic with a Local
Our final pick, Christmas Market Magic with a Local, offers a one-hour intimate tour for just $130. Led by a local guide, you’ll explore Salzburg’s markets, learn about local holiday traditions, and taste seasonal treats. This small-group experience (max 8 travelers) provides personalized insights that bring Salzburg’s Christmas charm to life. Reviewers appreciate the genuine connection with the local guide and the chance to discover hidden gems within the markets.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers who want a personalized, authentic taste of Salzburg’s Christmas traditions in a short, friendly tour.
$130 per person
How to Choose Your Salzburg Christmas Experience
When deciding which Salzburg Christmas tour suits you best, consider your interests, budget, and time constraints. If you love hands-on activities, the Cookies and Apple Strudel Cooking Class offers a tasty, interactive experience. For music lovers, the variety of concerts—from the Fortress Hohensalzburg to the Mirabell Palace—provides authentic culture. Those seeking a personalized touch may prefer the Private Walking Tour, while families or group travelers might enjoy the full-day private tour.
Timing is important—book early for concerts during peak season, and consider combining multiple experiences if your schedule allows. For the most atmospheric experience, opt for evening tours or the festive concerts in fortress settings.
Salzburg offers a range of Christmas experiences—from lively markets and soulful concerts to fun cooking lessons—that cater to varied tastes. Whether you’re there for a romantic evening, culture, or family fun, these tours promise a holiday season full of warmth and unforgettable memories. To ensure you don’t miss out, plan and book early, especially for popular concerts and private tours. Salzburg’s Christmas magic is waiting—make sure you experience it at its best.