Lexi Webster
Salzburg, Austria, is known for its moderate climate, offering relatively comfortable temperatures all year round. However, travellers should be prepared for rain, as it is quite a rainy place. When it comes to snow, it usually starts falling in Salzburg in November and continues through April. While Heavy snowfall is rare, it does occur occasionally. In December, the city experiences an average of 12 days of rain or snowfall, with minimum temperatures dropping to minus four degrees Celsius. The surrounding mountains typically have snow, making it a popular destination for skiers and snowboarders.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Snowfall period | November to April |
| Driest months | December and January |
| Average maximum temperature in December | 3°C |
| Average minimum temperature in December | -4°C |
| Average sunshine hours in December | 2 hours |
| Average rainy/snowy days in December | 12 days |
| Snow in January | Low probability |
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What You'll Learn
Snowfall in Salzburg is common from November to April
Salzburg, Austria, has a moderate climate, making it relatively comfortable all year round. However, snowfall in Salzburg is common from November to April. While it is impossible to predict the weather months in advance, historical weather data can give an idea of what to expect.
In November, snow starts falling in Salzburg, and it can get quite cold. In December, the city experiences frost and low temperatures, with an average maximum of three degrees and a minimum of minus four. There are only about two hours of sunshine per day, and the month sees about 12 days of rain or snowfall. The Christmas markets, which are a strong appeal, usually close on the 23rd of December.
In January, the probability of snow in the city is low, but it is not impossible. The surrounding mountains usually have snow, and the skiing season is typically open. Heavy snowfall is rare in Salzburg but does happen from time to time. For instance, in 2017, Vienna experienced a heavy snowfall that led to a layer of almost 30 cm in a single day.
In February, Salzburg can experience cold temperatures, and snow is more likely than in January. By April, the snow season in Salzburg usually comes to an end.
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December is cold, with an average maximum temperature of 3°C
December in Salzburg is cold, with an average maximum temperature of 3°C. The minimum temperature can drop to as low as -4°C. With only two hours of sunshine on average per day, the month sees 12 days of rain or snowfall. Frost is common, so warm clothing, including a hat and proper shoes, is essential. Despite the cold, December is a popular time to visit Salzburg, with its Christmas markets, nativity scene plays, and other festive attractions.
While the mountains usually have snow, the city of Salzburg, which sits at the bottom of a valley, has seen fewer White Christmases in recent years due to global warming. However, snow typically starts falling in November and continues through April, so there is a good chance of seeing some snow in December.
The Christmas markets, which are a significant draw, are usually open until December 23, with the most notable ones being around the Salzburger Dom Cathedral and Alter Markt, in front of Schloss Mirabell, and in the inner courtyard of the Hohensalzburg Castle. Various districts, such as Obergnigl and Maxglan, also hold their own markets, which are less touristy.
December 6 is St. Nicholas' Day, when children receive small gifts and sweets, and it is common to see men dressed as St. Nicholas in the streets. Christmas Eve is the biggest holiday in Austria, with Christmas Day and Boxing Day dedicated to celebrating with the wider family.
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Christmas markets are a popular attraction in December
December in Salzburg is cold, with average maximum temperatures dropping to 3°C and minimum temperatures to -4°C. Taking global warming into account, a permanent and proper "White Christmas" has become a rare occurrence in the city of Salzburg, although the surrounding mountains usually have snow. However, the Christmas markets are a popular attraction in December.
The historic Salzburg Christkindlmarkt, located in the heart of Salzburg's UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the oldest and most beautiful Advent markets in the world. The market dates back to the late 15th century, when it was known as the "Tandlmarkt". By the 17th century, it had been renamed the "Nikolaimarkt" or "Saint Nicholas' Market". Today, the market features around 100 stalls selling local arts and crafts, charming gifts, Christmas treats, and festive decorations. Traditional huts, unique lighting, and a diverse events programme, including choral singing, "Turmblasen" (wind instruments), and nativity exhibits, add to the festive atmosphere.
The Christmas Market on Mirabell Square has also become a popular attraction for visitors and locals alike. This centrally located market offers culinary delights such as mulled wine and gingerbread, as well as beautifully decorated stalls. The Advent Market St. Leonhard, located near the pilgrimage church, is another highlight, featuring traditional gingerbread, roasted chestnuts, punch, and an entertainment programme with brass bands.
For those seeking a more unique experience, the Christmas Market in front of the Silent Night Chapel, where the eponymous Christmas carol was born, is a must-visit. Visitors can admire wood carvings and handmade decorations while enjoying mulled wine and roasted chestnuts. With its romantic ambiance and craftwork, this market offers a distinct atmosphere.
The Christmas markets in Salzburg typically open in late November and close around December 23, with some extending into the New Year. They provide a magical experience, filling the city with warmth and cheer, and are a beloved tradition for both locals and tourists.
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January is the coldest month, but snow is rare in the city
While January is the coldest month in Salzburg, Austria, snow is rare in the city itself. The city experiences a moderate climate, with comfortable temperatures all year round. However, it is also a rainy place, and travellers should expect some wet days during their visit.
December and January are the driest months, averaging about six days of rain each. While these months are likely to be snowy, snow usually starts falling in November and continues through April. In recent years, however, Austria has experienced warmer Christmases, with snow often arriving in mid-January.
The probability of encountering snow in the city in January is low, but not impossible. While heavy snowfall is rare, it does occasionally occur. For instance, in February a couple of years ago, Vienna experienced a heavy snowfall that led to a layer of almost 30 cm in a single day.
In December, the mountains usually have snow, which is ideal for skiing. The average maximum temperature in December drops to a frosty 3°C, with minimum temperatures reaching -4°C. Frost is common, and there are only about two hours of sunshine per day.
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Heavy snow is rare, but can happen—30cm of snow fell in Vienna in 2015
While heavy snow is rare in Salzburg, it does occasionally happen. In 2015, for instance, a band of heavy snow affected several regions in the United States. While this did not directly impact Salzburg, it demonstrates the potential for heavy snowfall events.
Salzburg typically experiences a moderate climate, with snow falling between November and April. December, one of the driest months, often sees snow, with an average maximum temperature of 3°C and a minimum of -4°C. The Christmas markets, which usually run until December 23, are a popular attraction during this time.
However, due to global warming, a "White Christmas" has become less common in Salzburg. The mountains usually have snow, which is ideal for the skiing season.
While heavy snow is uncommon in Salzburg, it is important to be prepared for winter weather conditions. Strong winds and heavy snow can cause travel disruptions and power outages. Property owners in nearby Vienna are required to remove snow from sidewalks, footpaths, and staircases up to 3 meters from their buildings. The city also deploys salt trucks to treat roads and sidewalks, making it easier to walk and drive even during snowfall.
Although heavy snow is rare in Salzburg, it is always a good idea to check the latest weather forecasts and be prepared for potential winter weather events.
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Frequently asked questions
Snow starts falling in Salzburg in November and continues through April, with December being the driest month.
The average maximum temperature in December is 3°C, and the minimum is -4°C.
While it's impossible to predict the weather in advance, there is usually snow in the mountains surrounding Salzburg at Christmas. However, due to global warming, a permanent and proper "White Christmas" has become rare in the city of Salzburg.
There are plenty of Christmas markets to visit in December, including the ones around the Salzburger Dom Cathedral and Alter Markt, in front of Schloss Mirabell, and in the inner courtyard of the Hohensalzburg Castle. You can also see the "Salzburger Adventsingen", a traditional nativity scene play performed by local boys in different Salzburg dialects.
While it's hard to predict the weather in advance, there is a low probability of snow in the city of Salzburg in January. However, you are more likely to see snow in the surrounding mountains.
