The Magic of the Salzburg Christmas Markets: Silent Night, Glühwein & Krampus Parades

Max Travel Abroad
May 18
1 min read

Updated: Oct 28

Written by Cindi Fries, Tour Guide & Founder of Max Travel Abroad LLC

Leading cultural tours through Austria, Italy & beyond since 2018

Austrian Christmas Markets Tour: What You’ll See in Salzburg, From Krampus to Silent Night

One December evening in Salzburg, I was leading our small group walking tour through the quiet, cobbled Steingasse—a narrow lane that once served as the main medieval trade route to Italy. We’d just admired the view across the Salzach River: the white towers of the Hohensalzburg Fortress glowing in the dusky sky.

As we paused, I pointed out a modest building that once housed Joseph Mohr, the Austrian priest who penned the lyrics to "Silent Night" ("Stille Nacht") in 1816. The carol, now beloved around the world, began right here in Austria.

Minutes later, as we stepped into the bustle of the Salzburg Christmas markets, we were met by a sudden burst of drums, bells, and shrieks—it was a traditional Krampus and Perchten parade, winding through the pedestrian streets in all its eerie, noisy, festive glory. Have you ever seen a Krampus parade? It is definitely memorable!

This is the kind of unscripted wonder you get on our Austrian Christmas market tours—where history, authentic traditions, and surprise collide in the best way possible.

Travel with us this December and experience the magic of Austria’s Christmas markets »