The magic of Christmas lights, the aroma of punch, traditional handicrafts and special places surrounded by winter scenery: Advent in the Salzburg region has so much to offer. Around Flachau, atmospheric Christmas markets and unique Advent experiences are waiting to be discovered.
Whether you fancy a relaxing afternoon in Altenmarkt, an Advent evening by a mountain lake or a trip to Mozart’s city of Salzburg, we’ve put together five tips to make your winter holiday at the Schützenhof even more special.
Would you like to enjoy the Advent season in the Salzburg region and discover its most beautiful Christmas markets? The family-run Hotel Schützenhof in Flachau-Reitdorf is a cosy place to stay and the perfect base for your excursions.
1. Altenmarkt Advent Market: Tradition Just Around the Corner
If you want to experience an authentic and cosy Advent season, a visit to the Advent Market in Altenmarkt is a lovely choice. Around the market square and local museums, regional traditions, handicrafts and a festive Christmas atmosphere take centre stage.
One of the highlights is the traditional Grundner nativity scene. The “Gemma Grundner Kripperl schaun” experience offers a glimpse into the region’s cherished Christmas traditions.
Dates in 2026:
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21 and 22 November
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28 and 29 November
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5 to 8 December
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12 and 13 December
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19 and 20 December
The Advent markets take place on the weekends listed above and on 8 December. For exact opening hours and programme details, check the Altenmarkt events calendar.
2. Bergsee Advent in Zauchensee: Christmas Magic at 1,350 Metres
A truly special Advent experience awaits you in Zauchensee. During the Bergsee Advent, the mountain lake at around 1,350 metres above sea level becomes a magical setting for light installations and an enchanting soundscape of classical music.
Fire bowls, a winter mountain landscape, traditional melodies and regional delicacies create a unique festive atmosphere. If you’re looking for an Advent evening away from the traditional Christmas markets, be sure to add this special excursion to your plans.
Dates in 2026:
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7 December
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11 December
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18 December
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23 December
The Bergsee Advent takes place from 6 pm to 10 pm on each of these dates.
3. Hidden Gem: The Romantic Advent Market at Hohenwerfen Castle
Medieval castle walls, Christmas music and a beautifully decorated castle courtyard: the romantic Advent Market at Hohenwerfen Castle is a wonderful tip for anyone looking for a truly unique Christmas market.
Here, traditional Pongau customs, Salzburg handicrafts and regional delicacies come together. A traditional shepherds’ play, Christmas choirs and a children’s programme featuring fairy tales and craft activities also make this event an interesting choice for families.
Dates in 2026:
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28 and 29 November
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5 and 6 December
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8 December
The Advent market is open from 1 pm to 7 pm on each of these dates. According to the organisers, admission is free.
Our tip: Allow plenty of time to soak up the special atmosphere and explore the historic castle courtyard at your own pace.
4. Salzburg Christmas Market at Cathedral Square and Residenzplatz
If you’d like to experience a larger Christmas market in a historic setting, plan a trip to Salzburg’s Old Town.
The Salzburg Christmas Market at Cathedral Square and Residenzplatz is one of the best-known Advent markets in the region. Surrounded by historic façades, festively decorated stalls and the scents of Christmas, you can enjoy the magic of the festive season right in the heart of Mozart’s city.
Alongside traditional handicrafts, you’ll find regional specialities, Christmas decorations and plenty of opportunities to enjoy a leisurely stroll through the Old Town.
Dates for 2026/2027: 19 November 2026 to 1 January 2027.
Opening hours:
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Monday to Thursday: 10 am–8:30 pm
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Friday: 10 am–9 pm
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Saturday: 9 am–9 pm
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Sunday and public holidays: 9 am–8:30 pm
Special opening hours apply on Christmas holidays and New Year’s Eve.
5. Hellbrunn Advent Magic: A Christmas Market Straight from a Storybook
A truly special experience awaits you at the Hellbrunn Advent Magic market, set against the beautiful backdrop of Hellbrunn Palace in Salzburg.
The festively decorated palace gardens, countless Christmas trees, the giant Advent calendar on the palace façade and the historic Sternweiher pond give the market its distinctive charm. One of the highlights is a stroll through the illuminated gardens, where Christmas decorations blend beautifully with historic architecture.
Hellbrunn Advent Magic is also a lovely destination for families and a wonderful addition to a visit to the Salzburg Christmas Market.
Dates in 2026: 19 November to 24 December.
Opening hours:
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Tuesday to Friday: 1 pm–8 pm
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Saturday, Sunday and public holidays: 10 am–8 pm
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24 December: 10 am–2 pm
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Closed on Mondays, except 21 December
Admission costs €8 per adult and includes a hot drink. Children up to and including five years of age can enter free of charge.
An Advent Getaway in Flachau: Our Tips for a Relaxing Break
Whether you’re visiting the traditional Advent market in Altenmarkt, enjoying a magical evening by a mountain lake, exploring a medieval castle or taking a trip to Salzburg, there’s plenty to discover around Flachau in the run-up to Christmas.
At Hotel & Restaurant Schützenhof in Flachau-Reitdorf, you can combine your Advent excursions with cosy rooms, regional cuisine and relaxing moments.
Plan your own Advent getaway and discover our winter packages. We look forward to welcoming you!