Salzburg has many different faces in winter: November and December are all about the preparations for Christmas. The Christmas markets, romantic atmosphere and musical events enchant young and old. At the beginning of the new year, the city of Mozart can be experienced just the way the locals know and love it: with music, culture and nature. Truly a city for connoisseurs!
Fairytale Advent
Winter in Salzburg begins with the opening of Christmas markets at the end of November. Casting a very special spell over the city that is guaranteed to captivate visitors and locals alike every single year. But beware: As you stand there, lost in thought and sipping on your mulled wine, scary-though-beautiful figures might be lurking just around the corner.
Salzburg Christmas Markets
Wild characters, evil spirits and heavenly tones
Circus artistry or skiing
For all those who find the run-up to Christmas either too thoughtful or too hectic, Winterfest in the Volksgarten serves as a refuge, a magical world of contemporary circus performance. With adventure and moments of pure astonishment included. If you prefer something sportier, however, take advantage of the free ski shuttle that runs from the city directly to the ski area.
Winterfest
Snow Space Salzburg Ski Shuttle
The weather in Salzburg in winter
December is cold and, especially at the end of the month, it isn’t that unusual to have heavier snowfall. You should definitely pack winter clothing, including a cap and gloves for your visit to the Christkindlmarkt. January and February are the coldest months of the year. The chances of snow-covered countryside are very high. Special tip for Salzburg: Winter hiking is especially enjoyable on the city mountains. Which is why you also need to pack a good pair of shoes!
Musical arrival of the New Year
The silhouette of this World Heritage city serves as one of the most beautiful backdrops imaginable for a sparkling New Year’s Eve fireworks display. And what would an Austrian city of music be without countless New Year’s Day concerts in some of the most beautiful concert halls? And once the New Year is well and truly underway, on and around Mozart’s birthday on 27 January the composer is given a befitting celebration in the form of the world’s leading Mozart festival, known simply as Mozart Week.
New Year´s Eve in Salzburg
Mozart week
Peace & quiet in abundance, plus bargain packages
During January and February, Salzburg is a true insider tip: Sometimes it seems as if you have the entire city to yourself. The silence of the snowy landscape invites you to take romantic walks, while inexpensive offers are kind on your holiday budget.
