Salzburg in winter – 24 things to do in winter in Salzburg, suggested by a local

Salzburg is a great city to visit all year round, but winter in Salzburg is especially charming. I have lived in Salzburg for more than 10 years and winter has always been my favorite season, and for a good reason!

During the colder months, the city of Mozart transforms into a true winter wonderland and the snow-covered baroque architecture adds a touch of magic to Salzburg’s attractions and its Old Town.

The city offers a variety of activities that let you embrace its magical winter atmosphere. From the festive Christmas markets to peaceful walks with breathtaking views high above the historic Old Town.

In this article, I share with you my insider tips for visiting Salzburg in winter and help you prepare for your winter adventure in the Mozart city.

In a hurry?

These are the absolute best things to do in Salzburg in winter:

Christmas market tour
Salzburg walking tour
Sound of Music Tour
VIP Dinner at Fortress Hohensalzburg

Why visit Salzburg in Winter

In winter, Salzburg offers a picture-perfect Old Town with snow-covered baroque buildings, festive decorations, and winter lights.

There is nothing better than strolling through this historic town, wrapped up in a warm winter coat and gloves, holding a cup of traditional mulled wine in your hands while you follow the sweet scent of gingerbread as the Christmas light twinkle and the snowflakes dance through the air. This is Salzburg in winter! And this is why winter is my favorite season in Salzburg.

In general, Salzburg is less crowded in winter and you’ll get to visit many attractions without queueing for hours. However, keep in mind that in December the various Christmas festivities draw in tourists and locals alike.

There are many things to see in Salzburg that are only possible in winter. Events like the Advent Singing and the traditional Christmas markets are some of the top things to do in Salzburg during the festive season.

January and February typically bring lots of snow, creating the perfect winter wonderland to enjoy the views from the fortress or to go on romantic strolls through town.

Where to stay in Salzburg in winter

The Old Town, with its historic charm and iconic landmarks, is fairly small and easy to explore on foot. If you base yourself in or close to the Old Town, you will have the best sights. as well as bars and restaurants, right at your doorstep.

When choosing your accommodation, look for easy access to public transport, especially during the winter months when the weather might be colder. This way, you can easily catch a bus whenever you need to get a bit further.

24 incredible things to do in Salzburg in winter

Explore Salzburg’s historic Old Town on foot

Get a glimpse into the past while you explore Salzburg’s Old Town on this walking tour. The Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1996, impresses not only with its historical significance but also with its stunning architecture. Even more so in winter, when twinkling fairy lights illuminate its narrow streets and historic buildings.

Many of Salzburg’s most popular attractions are located in the Old Town. And since most of the city is a pedestrian zone, it’s quite easy to explore it on foot. 

If you want to experience the Old Town like a local, then go explore the unique through-houses in Getreidegasse. These public passageways that lead off the Getreidegasse hide some of the best gems of Salzburg.

Don’t miss the passage at Getreidegasse Nr. 33, in which you’ll find the original Salzburg Bosna. This somewhat Austrian version of a hotdog is sold at Balkan Grill and is famous among locals and tourists alike. 

Book your tour:
Salzburg Old Town Highlights Private Walking Tour

Explore Mirabell Palace and enjoy a classic Mozart concert

Mirabell Palace is without a doubt one of the most romantic places Salzburg has to offer. No wonder the Marble Hall inside the palace is one of the world’s most popular wedding venues.

Once a place where Mozart performed for the archbishops, the Marble Hall now hosts not only weddings but also classical concerts almost every day. Get your ticket to one of these concerts and let the ambiance of the Marble Hall transport you to past times while you enjoy a recital in the classic tradition of Mozart.

Book your tour:
Salzburg: Palace Concert at the Marble Hall of Mirabell Palace

Explore the Salzburg Christmas markets

Enjoy the festive spirit of the holiday season by visiting Salzburg’s traditional Christmas markets. Shop handcrafted souvenirs, warm up with a cup of traditional mulled wine, and indulge in the many treats offered here.

In December, you’ll find Christmas markets at several locations in Salzburg. The most famous of all is the Christkindlmarkt at Domplatz – and I have to admit, it is my favorite too. I love how it brings the Christmas atmosphere to every little corner of the Old Town.

If you are looking for traditional handicrafts, then head over to the Christmas market at Schloss Mirabell. Or visit the coziest Christmas market of all at Hohensalzburg Fortress.

Unsure where to head first? Take this Christmas market tour and let your local guide show you the best spots and specialties of each of Salzburg’s Christmas markets.

Book your tour:
Private Christmas Market Tour in Salzburg

Master Christmas cookies and the famous Apfelstrudel at a cooking class

A visit to Salzburg in Christmas season without enjoying a piece of freshly baked Apfelstrudel or traditional Christmas cookies? Unthinkable! Consider taking a cooking class that reveals the secrets behind these Austrian treats. Learn the art of crafting the perfect Christmas cookies and master the authentic Apfelstrudel.

It took me a while to nail my Apfelstrudel, but I guess my mum was not the best teacher. Having a chef show you all the tips and tricks is so worth it!

Book your class:
Salzburg Christmas Cookies and Apple Strudel Cooking Lesson

Enjoy a Dinner Concert at Fortress Hohensalzburg

Looking for a romantic evening out for couples? Then spend a special evening at this unique dinner experience accompanied by a Mozart concert at Hohensalzburg Fortress.

The Panorama Restaurant located in the fortress offers some of the best views of the city. After your dinner of traditional Austrian dishes, you will enjoy a concert and indulge in some of Mozart’s most famous compositions.

Book your evening:
Best of Mozart Concert and Dinner or VIP Dinner at Fortress Hohensalzburg

Immerse yourself in the world of “The Sound of Music”

Did you know, that most Austrians have never heard of the Sound of Music? Crazy, right? I was 19 years old when I saw the movie for the first time, and I’ve been a big fan ever since.

If you are a fan of “The Sound of Music” just like me, then the official Sound of Music Tour is an absolute must. Many scenes from this classic were shot in the city of Salzburg and its surrounding areas. This tour takes you to all the best spots, allowing you to relive the magic of “The Sound of Music”.

In the garden of Hellbrunn Palace, you’ll discover the pavilion from ‘Sixteen Going on Seventeen,’ and at the Mirabell Gardens you can see the steps where Maria and the Von Trapp children sang ‘Do-Re-Mi.’ The tour also takes you to key locations in the region, such as St. Michael’s Basilica, where Maria and Baron Von Trapp got married.

Book your tour:
Original Sound of Music Tour Salzburg With Schnitzel and Noodle

Warm up in Salzburg’s most historic Café

Experience Salzburg’s famous coffeehouse culture at Café Tomaselli, one of Mozart’s favorite coffeehouses. This historic café is located in the heart of the Old Town and has been a central meeting point for locals for over 150 years.

Here, you can enjoy traditional Austrian coffee specialties and cakes, including Mozart’s favorite drink—almond milk. If you’re lucky enough to secure a table by the large windows, you can observe the lively hustle and bustle of the Old Town while leisurely sipping your drink— my favorite way of having coffee here.

Try the famous Mozartkugel

Indulge in the famous chocolate pralines Mozartkugel and learn about their history during this chocolate tasting class.

The city is home to two different kinds of Mozartkugel, sparking a veritable debate. Café Fürst sells the small chocolate pralines with marzipan filling, wrapped in silver-blue packaging, calling them the original Mozartkugel. The Mirabell brand presents the real Mozartkugel in red-gold packaging, which is more internationally known and found all over airports and souvenir shops.

As a local, I have to side with the Fürst family, which is believed to be the true inventor of the Mozartkugel. However, the choice between the two is entirely personal and when in doubt, why not try both? 

Mozartkugel pralines also make for a tasty souvenir to bring back from your Salzburg holiday.

Book your tour:
Full Edition: Mozartkugel & Chocolate Walking Tasting Class

Take a romantic carriage ride

Experience the magical winter beauty of Salzburg during a romantic carriage ride. The traditional carriages were once used by the Prince Archbishops and now offer locals and visitors alike a nostalgic experience.

Starting at Residenzplatz in the heart of Salzburg, the carriage takes you on a journey through the charming Old Town. A cozy blanket will keep you warm while you enjoy this special sight-seeing tour. Have a chat with your coachman, he can tell you fascinating stories about the city’s rich history.

Explore Salzburg’s shopping streets

Embark on a shopping experience in the historic streets of Salzburg! Your top shopping destinations in the Old Town are undoubtedly the famous Getreidegasse and its little sister, Linzergasse. These historic streets have been trade hubs for generations and now offer a variety of modern shops among Salzburg’s rich history.

I love how the atmosphere of these narrow streets transports you to a different place while you leisurely wander from shop to shop. It’s a great way to spend an afternoon – I mean, who doesn’t need a new scarf, right?

Visit the Fortress Hohensalzburg

The Fortress Hohensalzburg is not only an important symbol of the city but also one of the most popular places to visit in Salzburg. With its unique panoramic views of the city and its surroundings, it attracts visitors throughout the year.

In December, a small Christmas market takes place in the courtyard of the fortress, offering Austrian specialties and handcrafted arts. This is the coziest Christmas market you can find in Salzburg.

To reach the fortress from the Old Town you can take a 20-minute walk along a narrow road up the hill that offers great views over the city. In winter, the road can be quite slippery and you might want to use the Fortress Railway which departs directly below the fortress in Festungsgasse.

Journey through Mozart’s Life

No trip to Salzburg is truly complete without exploring the life and legacy of its most renowned resident—Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. Two prominent Mozart houses in the Old Town provide a unique opportunity to get up close and personal with the genius composer.

Nestled in the famous Getreidegasse, the yellow “Hagenauer House” is home to Mozart’s Birthplace. This is probably the most visited attraction in Salzburg and you can see a constant stream of tourists marveling at its yellow facade. Inside, you can learn about Mozart’s early years and explore the rooms where the composer lived and created his music. You can also admire personal mementos such as private letters or his first violin.

Just a short walk away, on the opposite side of the river, lies the Mozart Residence. This is where Mozart spent his childhood and today the building houses a museum. Get a glimpse of the Mozart family’s private life and personal stories as you wander through these rooms.

For both attractions, your best bet is to come early in the morning to avoid the crowds.

Go ice skating at Mozartplatz

From November to January, Mozartplatz offers a special treat for Salzburg’s residents and visitors: an ice rink.

Located right between the New Residence, Residenzplatz, and the Cathedral, this ice rink provides a spectacular panorama. Here you can skate next to baroque churches and historic buildings in the heart of the Old Town.

Year after year, skating over this ice rink makes me fall in love with Salzburg all over again. Don’t worry about bringing your own skates, rental options are available on-site.

Visit the Museum of Modern Art

If you’re eager to explore contemporary art and enjoy stunning views of Salzburg, a visit to the Museum of Modern Art is a must. Positioned atop the Mönchsberg, the museum not only houses an impressive collection of international art from the 20th and 21st centuries but also offers panoramic views of the city.

Before leaving Mönchsberg, make sure to stop at Café M32 which is located right next to the Museum of Modern Art. This Café not only offers some of the best Salburger Nockerl (a sweet soufflé served as desert), but also incredible views over Salzburg.

Take a stroll on Mönchsberg

A walk on Mönchsberg in winter isn’t just a stroll, it’s a peaceful journey through a world of snow-covered paths that offers breathtaking views over Salzburg.

But before you climb up the Clemens-Holzmeister Staircase, get a Baumkuchen from the stalls at Universitätsplatz. This hollow roll of yeast dough, covered in cinnamon and sugar, is the perfect snack while you enjoy the views on top of Mönchsberg. Especially the viewpoint above Neutor offers a panorama view that even surpasses postcards.

Discover the Salzburg Cathedral & DomQuartier

The Salzburg Cathedral is one of Salzburg’s must-see attractions. Whether you’re admiring its exterior or exploring its historic interiors, the cathedral’s early Baroque beauty will surely impress you.

I am not particularly religious, but I find the art and architecture inside the Cathedral are still worth exploring. Admission is free, making it a great escape from sudden bad winter weather.

Adjacent to the cathedral is the DomQuartier, a complex housing five museums. Make sure not to miss the observation terrace, which offers a lovely view of Salzburg from a truly unique perspective.

Take a walk along the Salzach

If you ever wonder what to do in Salzburg when shops or attractions are closed, then head over to the river Salzach. The broad paths along both river banks invite you to take a relaxed stroll while taking in the beautiful views of Salzburg – one of my favorite things to do in Salzburg in winter.

It can get quite windy along the Salzach, especially in winter, so it’s a good idea to bring gloves, a scarf, and a hat. If you still get cold, make a stop to warm up at one of my favorite coffe shops. We Love Coffee at Mozartsteg and My Mums in Linzergasse sell delicious hot chocolate which is perfect for cold winter days. 

Visit St. Peter’s Abbey and its famous bakery

Founded in the 7th century, St. Peter’s Abbey is the oldest surviving monastery in the German-speaking world. This historical building not only showcases distinctive Christian structures but also invites you to explore the Petersfriedhof (St. Peter’s Cemetery) and the catacombs.

The highlight of the abbey is its bakery, which traces its roots back to the 12th century, making it the oldest bakery in Salzburg. Make a stop here to try their mini brioche. If you ask me, this is the best brioche in town and a must-try for food enthusiasts. You can access the bakery either from Petersfriedhof or from Kapitelplatz – simply follow the delightful scent of sweet brioche. Once you spot the water wheel, you’ll know you’ve found the right place.

Explore the ancient tradition of Perchten run in Salzburg

In December, a centuries-old tradition comes to life in Salzburg—the Perchten runs. Disguised in intricately carved wooden masks, shaggy fur costumes, and decorated with heavy bells, these wild figures parade through the city, symbolically driving away winter.

This unique event is an integral part of the festivities around Christmas in Salzburg. The Gastein Perchten even performed in 1837 during a visit by Emperor Ferdinand I and have been recognized as part of UNESCO’s intangible cultural heritage since 2011.

Most of the time, the perchten runs take place close to Christmas markets, which means you can combine a visit to both. Come early to make sure you get a good view, but avoid standing in first line – they can be quite scary!

Take a journey through Christmas at the Salzburg Christmas Museum

The Salzburg Christmas Museum takes you on a magical journey into the world of Christmas in all its facets. The exhibition showcases a culturally rich collection of the festivities between Advent and New Year from 1840 to 1940 that is unique in Europe. The Christmas Museum can be visited almost year-round but it is particularly enchanting in winter.

Celebrate New Year’s Eve at Residenzplatz and Dance the Traditional Waltz

The New Year’s festivities in Salzburg unfold around Salzburg Cathedral. My favorite spot is usually in the middle of the crowd at Residenzplatz. Make sure to have a good view at the fortress, like this you will have a great panorama of the fireworks.

At the stroke of midnight, the bells of Salzburg Cathedral ring in the New Year, accompanied by a magnificent fireworks display over Hohensalzburg Fortress. The special highlight at midnight is the call “Alles Walzer” (Everyone Waltz). The entire Residenzplatz transforms into a dance floor, where people waltz to the famous Viennese Waltz under the fireworks, welcoming the new year.

Capture the charm of Salzburg during a photo tour

Explore Salzburg through the lens of your camera or smartphone by taking a photo tour. Your guide will not only bring you to the city’s most iconic landmarks and its hidden gems, but also provide tips and help you capture that perfect shot. After this your, you will leave Salzburg with a collection of memorable snapshots.

Book your photo tour:
Explore the Instaworthy Spots of Salzburg with a Local

Take a stroll across Salzburg’s charming bridges

Take a stroll through Salzburg and explore some of its 13 historic bridges.

One noteworthy bridge is the Marko-Feingold-Steg. Over the years, this bridge has evolved into a romantic meeting point where couples attach love locks and toss the key into the river beneath as a sign for eternal love.

Another fascinating structure is the Mozartsteg with its elegant Art Nouveau design. The Mauthäusl, once home to its toll station, has found a new purpose as the smallest coffee shop in Salzburg.

Go on a beer-tasting

Discover the rich beer-brewing history of Salzburg with this beer-tasting experience. Your guide will lead you through a selection of local brews, introducing you to the distinct characteristics of each. You will gain insights into the brewing process, the role of different ingredients, and the cultural influences shaping Salzburg’s beer landscape.

Book your tasting:
Private Austrian Beer Tasting Tour in Salzburg

Winter holidays and events in Salzburg

Salzburg offers a big variety of classic and modern events and celebrations in winter. Especially during the festive Christmas season, these events can influence the operating hours of shops, restaurants and attractions. On top, availability and prices of accommodations and tours might be affected.

The following list highlights important dates to consider when planning your Salzburg holiday in winter.

24th of December
Christmas Eve (Heiliger Abend)
Shops and attractions close earlier on this day. Dinner reservations are essential.

25th of December
Christmas Day (Christtag)
Expect shops to be closed, restaurants and tours might function in a limited fashion. Christmas lunch reservations are essential.

31st December
New Year’s Eve (Silvester)
Shops and attractions close earlier on this day. Dinner reservations are essential.

1st of January
New Year’s Day (Neujahrstag)
Expect shops to be closed, restaurants and tours might function in a limited fashion.

6th of January
The Epiphany (Heilige Drei Könige)
Expect shops to be closed, restaurants and tours might function in a limited fashion.

14th of February
Valentine’s Day (Valentienstag)
Shop and tour opening times are not affected. Dinner reservations are essential.

School holidays
Children in Austria enjoy their school holidays from Christmas to the Epiphany (with exact dates varying each year). Since neighboring countries share similar holidays, you can expect more tourists in the city during this period.

Carnival (Fasching)
Dates vary each year, usually in February or early March. Shop and tour opening times are not affected.

Salzburg winter temperature and weather

In general, you can expect cold weather with significant snowfall throughout winter in Austria. The temperature in Salzburg often drops below freezing, so it’s advisable to pack winter clothing, including a hat and gloves, especially if you plan to visit the Christkindlmarkt.

Does it snow in Salzburg?

Yes, you can expect snowfall during the winter months in Salzburg. However, Salzburg’s weather in December is sometimes slightly too warm for snow.

If you are hoping for a white landscape, the best time to visit Salzburg is January and February. During these months the city and its surroundings are usually covered in powdery snow.

How many days in Salzburg in the winter

I recommend you spend two days or more in Salzburg to embrace the magical atmosphere of the city, especially since the days are shorter in winter. This will allow you to explore all the major attractions, indulge in delicious Austrian treats, explore the traditional Christmas markets, and take a stroll or two to take in the beautiful views of Salzburg.

While Salzburg’s Old Town isn’t overly large and can be explored on a well-planned day trip, it is by far not everything the Mozart city has to offer. Spending a night or two here will give you that little extra time to discover the historic Old Town and enjoy the best views of the city.

Getting to Salzburg

By Air: Salzburg is serviced by Wolfang Amadeus Mozart Airport1.8 miles (3 km) from the city center. For the quickest journey from the airport to the city, opt for a private transfer. It should take you roughly 10 to 20 minutes from the airport to the city center, depending on traffic.

By train: Salzburg also offers an excellent railway network, with trains connecting the city to various major destinations within Austria and neighboring countries. The train station is situated to the north of the city center and is easily accessible via bus or on foot.

By car: If you rather travel by car, reaching Salzburg is pretty straightforward as well. From within Austria, you can take the A1 or A10 autobahn, and if you arrive from Germany, use the A8. Make sure you get the vignette. Parking in downtown Salzburg is available but fees apply.

Getting around Salzburg

If you stay in Salzburg’s Old Town, most attractions will be located within walking distance. Most parts of the Old Town are a pedestrian area and the narrow streets are best explored on foot, allowing you to enjoy the charm of this historic area.

This hop-on-hop-off bus tour is a great way to explore Salzburg. It takes you directly to the most important sights, and is a more efficient alternative to public transport, especially during winter traffic conditions.

While Salzburg has a well-connected public bus system, the buses are often late in winter, especially when there’s snow.

Salzburg also operates a local train with multiple stops across the city. This is a great option if you want to explore areas beyond the Old Town and you have a train station nearby. Especially in winter, trains are often faster than buses.

Planning a trip to Salzburg?

Nestled against the backdrop of the stunning Alps, Salzburg’s got it all – a cute old town, stunning alpine views, and a Mozart connection. The baroque architecture, especially Hohensalzburg Fortress, and its association with The Sound of Music make it uniquely interesting.

Austria offers diverse experiences, from rich culture, stunning landscapes, and historic cities like Vienna and Salzburg, to outdoor activities like skiing and hiking in the Alps. For insights on must-visit attractions and tips to make the most of your experience in this wonderful country make sure to check all my articles on Austria!