Winter Family Fun in Salzburg: Christmas Markets, Music, and Austrian Delights
Salzburg, Austria, is a city that seems straight out of a fairytale, especially during the winter months. With its baroque architecture and festive Christmas markets, it’s the perfect destination for winter family fun. Our family trip to this enchanting city was filled with unforgettable experiences, from sipping glühwein in the Residenzplatz Christmas Market to reliving scenes from The Sound of Music in Mirabell Gardens. Here’s how our time in Salzburg unfolded.
A Taste of Tradition at Stiegl Brewery
Our first stop was the famous Stiegl Brewery, a must-visit for beer lovers and curious travelers alike. Founded in 1492, this brewery is an institution in Austria and an integral part of Salzburg’s history.
As we traveled around the center of Austria Stiegl was a consistently available refreshment at the various restaurants and slope-side lodges during our trip. We opted to grab a bite at the on-site restaurant, where our children enjoyed the family-friendly menu and apple juice, while Marina and I tested out a few beers.
Arriving in Salzburg’s Old Town
As we continued on our way, we were struck by the charm of this historic city. Nestled along the Salzach River, the city’s blend of old-world architecture and festive decorations created an enchanting atmosphere. We parked our car in the CONTIPARK Tiefgarage Altstadtgarage B, which provided convenient access to the old town (Alstadt) where we started our adventures.
Christmas Family Fun in Residenzplatz
As we left the underground parking lot, we made our way to the Residenzplatz Christmas Market, one of the most picturesque holiday markets in Europe. The market was abuzz with enthusiastic locals and visitors. Garland and Christmas lights adorned all of the stalls, immersed us in the festive spirit, as vendors sold everything from hand crafted ornaments to delectable sweet treats. We indulged in warm glühwein, a traditional spiced wine that provided the perfect remedy for the chilly air. The kids and Marina delighted in giant cinnamon rolls, their warm, sugary aroma making them impossible to resist.
Adding to the magic of the moment, a group of carolers stood on the steps of Salzburg Cathedral, singing traditional Austrian Christmas songs. The grandeur of the cathedral, illuminated by twinkling lights, provided a breathtaking backdrop. It was a scene straight out of a holiday postcard and one of the highlights of our trip.
Wandering Through the Old Town
From the Christmas market we wandered through the enchanting passageways of Salzburg’s Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and marveled at the city’s architecture. One of the most notable stops was Mozart’s birthplace, located at Getreidegasse 9. The bright yellow building stood out among the historic facades, a testament to the city’s deep musical heritage. Though we didn’t tour the museum inside, simply standing outside this iconic location felt significant, knowing that one of history’s greatest composers was born here.
Exploring Mirabell Gardens and The Sound of Music Filming Locations
Next we set off to explore Mirabell Gardens, famous not only for its manicured landscapes and sculptures but also as a filming location for The Sound of Music. Walking through the gardens, we couldn’t help but hum Do-Re-Mi as we recognized the Pegasus Fountain and the steps where Maria and the von Trapp children danced. Even if you’re not a fan of the film, Mirabell Gardens offers a tranquil escape with stunning views of Hohensalzburg Fortress in the distance. With the crisp winter air invigorating us, we took a leisurely stroll back to the old town along the Salzach River. The views of the fortress were even grander than from the gardens.
A Hearty Austrian Meal and Fantastic Coffee
After a day of exploration, we were ready for a satisfying meal. We found the perfect spot at Zipfer Bierhaus, a traditional Austrian eatery known for its hearty dishes and warm atmosphere. We started with a pretzel and cheese dip (obatzda) that was excellent. And for the main meal the kids feasted on weiner schnitzel, which became a favorite on our Germany and Austria road trip, while Marina and I enjoyed a daily special of classic Austrian fare; including ham, roast pork, frankfurter sausage paired with semmelknödel and sauerkraut in a rich brown beer gravy. Paired with a refreshing Zipfer beer, it was the perfect way to warm up and reflect on our Salzburg adventures.
Check out these European recipes to try at home!
No trip to Salzburg would be complete without experiencing its exceptional coffee culture. We ended our journey at 220Grad Rupertinum, a stylish café known for its expertly brewed coffee. The cozy yet modern ambiance made it an ideal place to unwind. We sipped on our coffees, savoring the last moments of our Salzburg adventure before heading off to our next destination.
Final Thoughts
Salzburg exceeded our expectations in every way. From its festive Christmas markets and historical landmarks to its vibrant culinary scene, the city offered something for every member of our family. Whether you’re a Sound of Music fan, a history enthusiast, or simply looking for a picturesque winter getaway, Salzburg is a destination that promises memories to last a lifetime. As we left, we knew this was a place we’d love to return to—perhaps in the summer to experience an entirely different side of its charm.
