The Magic of the Salzburg Christmas Markets: Silent Night, Glühwein & Krampus Parades
Updated: 2 days ago
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. I knew from my Austrian Mother-in-Law how sacred that song is to Austrians. " The Silent Night hymn is so special that we wait until Christmas Eve to sing it."
Minutes later, as my small tour group 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! And if you get too close it can sting if they swap you with their switch!
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 »
Salzburg Star Advent Market Krampus character display Christmas decorations for sale
Comments