Hi guys, on my website, I already wrote an article about staying in Salzburg for first-timers (I will put the links to it at the end of this article). In today’s article, I will help you to find the best places to stay in Salzburg for Christmas Markets.
I will provide you with a list of what I believe are the best areas to stay in Salzburg for Christmas Markets, along with a helpful map. I’ll also share where I stayed in Salzburg and recommend some of the best hotels.
Salzburg, Austria is a wonderful destination for experiencing the magic of Christmas markets. The city has several Christmas Markets, but some of the best Salzburg Christmas Markets are:
- Salzburg Christkindlmarkt at Domplatz and Residenzplatz
- Christmas Market on Mirabellplatz (23rd Nov- 24th Dec)
- Advent Market at Hohensalzburg Fortress Courtyard (1th Dec- 18th Dec)
- Advent Magic in Hellbrunn (23rd Nov- 24th Dec)
- Stern Advent with Winter Market on Getreidegasse (23rd Nov – 6th Jan)
Salzburg, known for its beautiful baroque architecture and stunning Alpine surroundings, comes alive during the holiday season with festive lights, traditional decorations, and the sweet sounds of Christmas carols.
The city’s historic Old Town, with its narrow streets and squares, is the perfect setting for Christmas markets. The markets are known for their cozy and romantic atmosphere, making it a great place to get into the holiday spirit.
While you’re in Salzburg, you can take the opportunity to explore the city. Visit historic sites like the Hohensalzburg Fortress, the Mozart Birthplace, and stroll through the charming Old Town.
You’ll find a wide array of traditional Austrian crafts at the markets. This includes hand-carved wooden ornaments, handmade candles, nativity scenes, and beautifully crafted Christmas decorations.
One of the highlights of the Salzburg Christmas markets is the delicious food and drinks. You can indulge in Austrian specialties such as roasted chestnuts, pretzels, sausages, and various types of Christmas sweets. Don’t forget to try a warming cup of Glühwein (mulled wine) to keep the cold at bay.
Many Christmas markets in Salzburg feature live music and entertainment, including traditional Austrian and Christmas carols. You can enjoy performances by local choirs and musicians, adding to the festive ambiance.
December in Salzburg can be quite cold, so dress warmly with layers. Don’t forget a hat, gloves, and a good winter coat.
Where to stay in Salzburg for Christmas Markets?
The best areas to stay in Salzburg for Christmas Markets are Altstadt (Old Town), Neustadt/ Elisabeth Vorstadt, Nonntal, and Maxglan. These areas offer plenty of accommodations and easy access to all Christmas Markets in the city.
Altstadt (Old Town) is the most popular place to stay in Salzburg for Christmas Markets because it is the historic heart of the city and it has the highest concentration of markets. Staying here will put you within walking distance to the famous markets at the Cathedral, Hohensalzburg Fortress, and Getreidegasse.
Altstadt (Old Town) also has the widest range of accommodations for all budgets, so you will have plenty of choices to pick one that suits your needs and preferences.
You can also choose to stay in Neustadt and Elisabeth Vorstadt which is located close to Salzburg Central Station, on the right bank of the Salzach River. These areas offer more budget-friendly accommodations while still having easy access to major sights and markets including the one at Mirabellplatz.
Nonntal and Maxglan are more residential areas located right next to the Old Town. These areas offer a quieter atmosphere, budget-friendly hotels, and within walking distance/ short bus ride from importation attractions and christmas markets.
During my trip to Salzburg, I stayed at the popular Radisson Blu Hotel Altstadt in the Old Town. It is only steps away from major sights and an easy walk from the best christmas markets in Salzburg. It has superb breakfast and an onsite restaurant that offers views of the river and the Kapuzinerberg mountain.
Below is a map of the popular areas in Salzburg for Christmas Markets.
4 Best areas to stay in Salzburg for Christmas Markets
1. Altstadt (Old Town)
The Altstadt is the heart of Salzburg and the most popular area for tourists. During the Christmas season, the Old Town is adorned with festive decorations, and its historic squares, like Residenzplatz and Domplatz, are home to some of the most iconic Christmas markets.
The Old Town’s medieval architecture, narrow cobblestone streets, and beautifully lit buildings create a magical backdrop for the Christmas season. You’ll be surrounded by the city’s history and culture as you explore the markets.
In addition to the markets, Altstadt is home to many of Salzburg’s famous landmarks, including the Hohensalzburg Fortress, Mozart’s birthplace, and the Salzburg Cathedral. You can explore these attractions while taking in the holiday spirit.
The Old Town also offers a variety of restaurants, cafes, and boutique shops, making it easy to enjoy local cuisine and find unique holiday gifts.
While Altstadt is the best area for experiencing the Christmas markets, it’s important to book accommodations well in advance, as it’s a highly sought-after location during the holiday season.
Best places to stay in Salzburg Old Town for Christmas Markets:
- Luxury ($$$): Hotel Goldener Hirsch, 5-star hotel located in Getreidegasse in the heart of the historic district of Salzburg within walking distance from Christmas Markets on Salzburg Cathedral and Residence Squares. You’ll also be close to the Festival Hall, Mozart’s Birthplace, and Hohensalzburg Fortress. It has superb breakfast and comfortable rooms.
- Mid-range ($$): Small Luxury Hotel Goldgasse, great 4-star hotel centrally located in a pedestrian area in the middle of the Old Town, easy access to all importation attractions and christmas markets in the historic center. It is within walking distance from the Salzach River, the Cathedral, Getreidegasse, and Mozart’s birthplace.
- Budget ($): Boutiquehotel am Dom, 4-star accommodation, conveniently located within walking distance from The Residence Palace, Getreidegasse, and Hohensalzburg Fortress. It offers Exceptional breakfast and parking for those who drive.
2. Neustadt/ Elisabeth Vorstadt
Neustadt and Elisabeth Vorstadt are great areas to book your accommodation during Christmas if you want lots of choices in budget-friendly accommodations and prefer close to the Main Train Station.
Salzburg Main Train Station (Salzburg Hauptbahnhof) is the primary railway station serving Salzburg and is one of the major transportation hubs in the region. You can catch trains to Vienna, Innsbruck, Munich, and other major cities, as well as international routes to places like Munich, Zurich, and Budapest.
These areas are located on the right bank of the Salzach River, within walking distance / short bus ride from the Old town with its major attractions and markets.
Neustadt and Elisabeth Vorstadt are also within easy walk from Mirabell Palace and Garden, a Baroque masterpiece in Salzburg. Its beautiful gardens are a popular attraction, featuring grand fountains and statues. It is the location of the iconic 1965 film The Sound of Music and also hosts a Christmas market.
On this side, you can visit the Mozart Residence Museum, explore Linzer Gasse Platzl historic square lined with restaurants and shops, and hike to Blick zur Festung Hohensalzburg for great views of the Fortress Hohensalzburg.
Best places to stay in Neustadt/Elisabeth Vorstadt for Christmas Markets:
- Luxury ($$$): Hyperion Hotel Salzburg, popular 5-star hotel located in New Town, within a short distance from Salzburg main train station, Mozarteum, and the Christmas markets at the Mirabell Palace. The hotel has fabulous breakfast, 24-hour front desk, and car parking.
- Mid-range ($$): Imlauer Hotel Pitter Salzburg, 4 star family run hotel centrally located in close proximity to many of the famous sights and christmas markets of Salzburg. Only 10 mins walk from Salzburg main train station, for trains to other destinations in Austria and Europe.
- Budget ($): Motel One Salzburg-Mirabell, popular 3-star hotel located in Elisabeth-Vorstadt on the banks of the Salzach River, within walking distance to the Christmas markets in Old Town and Mirabell Palace. Also close to the railway station and a bus stop for further exploration.
3. Nonntal
Nonntal is a peaceful and picturesque residential area in Salzburg, located to the south of the Altstadt . It is a great base for the local atmosphere and quiet environment.
This area features beautiful views of the Salzburg Fortress and the surrounding mountains. You’ll have the opportunity to enjoy the city’s natural beauty, especially if there’s snowfall during the Christmas season.
Hohensalzburg Fortress is a medieval fortress, perched on a hill overlooking the city, is one of Europe’s best-preserved and largest castles. This Fortress hosts an Advent Market at its Courtyard.
While Nonntal is located to the south of the Old Town, you can still easily reach the Christmas markets and attractions of the Altstadt by walking, taking public transportation, or a short taxi ride.
Nonntal is home to several historic sites, including the Stift Nonnberg (a Benedictine monastery) and the Nonnberg Abbey, which was featured in the movie “The Sound of Music.” These attractions can add a unique cultural dimension to your stay.
The area has pleasant walking paths along the Salzach River, making it enjoyable for leisurely strolls.
Best places to stay in Salzburg in Nonntal for Christmas Markets:
- Mid-range ($$): Hotel Via Roma, great 4-star hotel located in Nonntal, under the shade of the Hohensalzburg Castle, 15 mins walk from the Old Town and Nonnberg Abbey. It has free parking which is a bonus for guests who drive.
- Mid-range ($$): JUFA Hotel Salzburg City, 4-star accommodation located in a quiet area on Josef-Preis-Allee, located only 5 mins walk from the historic center with its major christmas markets and attractions.
- Budget ($): Friesachers Aniferhof, this family-run hotel is located in a quiet location only a few kms south of Nonntal and a 30 mins bus ride from central Salzburg. It has a beautiful backdrop of the Alps, free parking, and fabulous breakfast. The Advent Magic in Hellbrunn is held nearby.
4. Maxglan
Maxglan is a residential neighborhood located to the west of Salzburg’s Altstadt and close to Salzburg Airport. It offers a quieter and more suburban atmosphere compared to the bustling Old Town.
Staying in Maxglan allows you to experience the daily life of local residents. You can explore local shops, bakeries, and cafes, providing an authentic Salzburg experience.
While Maxglan is a bit further from the Old Town and the primary Christmas markets, you can easily reach the city center by walking, or taking public transportation. This allows you to enjoy the festive activities in the Old Town while having a quieter place to return to.
This area is home to the Red Bull Hangar-7, a unique and visually striking building owned by the Red Bull company and serves as a multifunctional space that combines a restaurant, bar, art exhibitions, and an impressive collection of historical aircraft, Formula 1 racing cars, and other vehicles.
You can also visit Stiegl-Brauwelt, a popular tourist attraction in the heart of Maxglan where you can learn more about the brewing process and the history of beer in Austria. Stiegl is one of the most well-known and oldest breweries in Austria, with a history dating back to 1492.
Accommodations in Maxglan may be more affordable than those in the Old Town, making it a budget-friendly option for travelers.
Best places to stay in Salzburg in Maxglan for Christmas Markets:
- Budget ($): Das Grüne Hotel zur Post – 100 % BIO. 3-star eco-friendly hotel located in Maxglan, a 5 mins bus ride from the downtown area. It has bike rental services, free parking, and laundry services. You can find a bus stop nearby for easy access to the Old Town.
- Budget ($): Hotel Max 70, popular 3-star accommodation in Maxglan, offering family rooms and fabulous breakfast according to nearly 3000 guest reviews. Lots of restaurants, shops, cafes nearby, easy access to bus to go to the historic center.
- Budget ($): Villa Ceconi by Das Grüne Hotel zur Post – 100% BIO, great accommodation in Maxglan in a quiet area, easy access to Old Town by bus.
In conclusion, Altstadt (Old Town), Neustadt/ Elisabeth Vorstadt, Nonntal, and Maxglan are the best places to stay in Salzburg for Christmas Markets. These are popular tourist areas that offer a range of hotels and amenities and easy access to all christmas markets both on foot and by public transportation.
You can continue reading about Salzburg in these articles:
- Safest areas to stay in Salzburg for first-time visitors
- Best places to stay in Salzburg with family
I hope you enjoyed my article and find it informative and helpful. If you have any questions or would like to share your thoughts, please don’t hesitate to leave a comment below. Your feedback is invaluable and helps me continue to create more quality travel guides.