“A place where ancient city walls, snow-dusted rooftops, and festive traditions create an Advent you’ll never forget.”
Nestled in the heart of Salzburg’s Pongau region, Radstadt is one of those rare Alpine towns that seems to step straight out of a storybook. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks and steeped in centuries of history, this charming walled town transforms during Advent into a festive haven of light, music, and tradition. Unlike some of the larger, more commercial Christmas markets, Radstadt offers something altogether more intimate and authentic – a celebration rooted in community, craftsmanship, and the sheer joy of the season.
From enchanting markets and glowing torchlit walks to nativity scenes tucked into ancient stone walls, Radstadt in December is a place where the spirit of Christmas feels truly alive.
The Christmas Market on Radstadt’s Town Square
Opening on Saturday, 29 November 2025, Radstadt’s Christmas market is a feast for the senses. Stalls brimming with high-quality local produce, handcrafted gifts, and seasonal delicacies fill the historic square, while the sound of choirs, brass ensembles, and local singing groups drifts through the crisp winter air.
“This is a Christmas market with heart – where local families, school choirs, and artisans take centre stage.”
Young visitors will be thrilled by a special appearance from St Nicholas and his mischievous Krampuses, while families can enjoy a lively festive programme that includes everything from traditional music to a unique performance by Elvis impersonator Robert Gründler, who lends his unmistakable energy to Christmas classics.
The market culminates in a major concert on Saturday, 27 December, ensuring the festive spirit lingers well past Christmas Day.
A Children’s Wonderland
One of the market’s true delights is its dedication to children. A whole programme of activities ensures younger guests are enchanted throughout Advent: sausage-grilling, alpaca-petting, biscuit-baking, crafts, and story-telling by the campfire.
Dates & Times 2025:
Sat, 29 & Sun, 30 November (15:30–20:30)
Sat, 6 – Mon, 8 December (15:30–20:30)
Sat, 13 & Sun, 14 December (15:30–20:30)
Sat, 20 & Sun, 21 December (15:30–20:30)
Fri, 26 & Sat, 27 December (15:30–20:30)
Magical Radstadt Christmas Hikes
If Radstadt’s market captures the heart of Christmas in town, the Christmas Hikes capture its soul in nature. On crisp winter evenings, visitors gather at dusk for a torchlit walk through the snow-laden forest along the Kaiserpromenade.
“By the glow of flaming torches, the forest becomes a stage for light, music, and festive wonder.”
The path is dotted with atmospheric light installations and accompanied by seasonal music, creating a sense of enchantment that lingers long after the walk ends. A steaming mug of Christmas punch at the end provides the perfect finale. Guests are kindly encouraged to bring their own mugs, helping protect the Alpine environment.
Dates & Times 2025:
Sat, 20 December (17:00)
Fri, 26 December (17:00)
The Nativity Trail – Tradition and Craftsmanship
Perhaps Radstadt’s most unique Advent offering is the Nativity Trail. Winding its way along the medieval city walls, it features 25 intricately carved nativity scenes by local artisans. Displayed in softly lit shop windows and outdoor cases, these hand-crafted pieces transform a simple evening stroll into a festive pilgrimage.
For those who cannot resist “Kripperl-Schauen” (nativity viewing), the Heritage Museum at Schloss Lerchen hosts a special Nativity Exhibition. Curated each year by Rudi Hermann, it showcases historic and artistic cribs – from miniature wooden masterpieces to elaborate traditional displays.
“In Radstadt, the nativity is not just a decoration – it’s an art form, a heritage, and a living tradition.”
Dates & Times 2025:
Nativity Trail:
daily, Sat 29 November 2025 – Sun 25 January 2026
Nativity Exhibition (Schloss Lerchen): Sat 29 November – Mon 22 December 2025, Wednesdays & Sundays (14:00–19:00)
How to Get There – From Salzburg
Getting to Radstadt is both easy and scenic. From Salzburg city, it’s just a little over an hour’s drive (approx. 70 km) along the A10 motorway, offering breathtaking Alpine views along the way.
For those travelling by train, Radstadt is well-connected on the ÖBB network, with direct regional trains from Salzburg Hauptbahnhof taking around 90 minutes. The station is a short walk from the town centre, making it an effortless journey even without a car.
Alternatively, several bus services operate between Salzburg and Radstadt, providing a budget-friendly option for travellers wishing to soak in the snowy landscapes en route.
“Whether you arrive by car, train, or bus, the journey itself feels like part of the festive experience.”
A True Advent Treasure
Radstadt is not a Christmas market to simply pass through – it is an Advent destination to savour. With its blend of music, tradition, artisan craft, and Alpine nature, it feels both intimate and magical, offering something for every age.
For travellers looking beyond the big city markets, Radstadt is a genuine insider tip: a festive jewel hidden within Salzburg’s mountains, where Christmas spirit lingers long after the last song fades.
For full details on events, programmes, accommodation, and winter highlights, visit Radstadt’s Winter Portal: https://www.radstadt.com/home-winter/
