Oberndorf - Home of the most recorded song ever !

(Visit Oberndorf bei Salzburg, Austria)

Silent Night, Holy Night - The song that brought the world together...

Following in the footsteps of Silent Night (the famous Christmas song) composed in Austria: What a wonderful Christmas travel destination.

Oberndorf bei Salzburg is a magical Christmas destination, especially for anyone inspired by the history of the world-famous Christmas carol “Silent Night”. This small Austrian town, just 20 km from Salzburg, is the birthplace of the song that has touched hearts for over 200 years.

Well if you think about it…the whole of Austria is beautiful. However…

“It is 1818, Christmas Eve, when a young priest, Joseph Mohr, asks his friend Franz Xaver Gruber to compose a melody for a poem he has written. The parish of St. Nicholas Church is modest, and the organ is broken, so the two create a simple yet heartfelt melody to be played on guitar. That night, “Stille Nacht, Heilige Nacht” is performed for the very first time. Little do they know, their humble collaboration will one day unite people across the globe with its message of peace and hope.”

Here's why Oberndorf should be on your Christmas travel list:

There’s something magical about walking through Oberndorf bei Salzburg during Christmastime. With snow dusting the rooftops and lights twinkling in every window, it’s like stepping into a Christmas card. But it’s not just any Christmas town—it is the birthplace of the song that has united people across the world .

Musik: Franz Xaver Gruber, 1818
Text: Joseph Mohr, 1816/1818
In Oberndorf, Austria

Lyrics to Stille Nacht

Stille Nacht, heilige Nacht
Alles schläft; einsam wacht
Nur das traute hochheilige Paar.
Holder Knabe im lockigen Haar,
Schlaf in himmlischer Ruh!
Schlaf in himmlischer Ruh!

Most Magical Experience on Christmas Eve in Austria:

Today, the Silent Night Chapel stands on the site of the original St. Nicholas Church, commemorating the carol’s beginnings. Visitors gather here year-round, but especially during December, to reflect on the song’s powerful history. On Christmas Eve, the chapel becomes the centerpiece of a moving tradition, where people from around the world come together to sing “Silent Night” in multiple languages, creating a sense of unity that mirrors the song’s enduring message.

The song was declared an intangible cultural heritage by UNESCO in 2011.

When you visit the Stille Nacht Chapel where, since 1953, the Silent Night Commemoration has been taking place every year on Christmas Eve at 17:00. People from all over the world arrive to sing “Silent Night” at this is a truly magical event, and something to remember for the rest of your life.

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Austrian Air

The Silent Night Post Office – a special magic…

Did you know there’s a special way to add a touch of magic to your Christmas mail in Oberndorf bei Salzburg?

Every year during Advent, the Silent Night Post Office opens its doors in the Bruckmannhaus, right in the heart of Oberndorf’s Silent Night district. From the 8th to the 24th of December, visitors can send letters and postcards from this unique post office, complete with the current Austrian Christmas stamp and a special “Silent Night” postmark.

Since 2004, the Silent Night Association has also been releasing an exclusive Silent Night Stamp each year, making your Christmas greetings even more memorable. Whether you’re sending a card to loved ones nearby or far away, this little tradition adds a heartfelt touch to the festive season.

It’s just one more reason why Oberndorf feels like the perfect place to celebrate the magic of Christmas!

The Silent Night Museum

Just steps away, the Silent Night Museum immerses visitors in the fascinating story of the carol’s creation. Original artifacts, including handwritten sheet music and letters from Joseph Mohr and Franz Xaver Gruber, paint a picture of the simple but profound origins of the song. The museum also reveals how “Silent Night” spread far beyond Oberndorf, becoming a global Christmas tradition that even inspired moments of peace during conflicts like World War I.

Frohe Weihnachten

"When you visit the Silent Night Chapel or Museum in Oberndorf, take a moment to reflect on the incredible moment in history during the Christmas truce of 1914, when soldiers from opposing sides of World War I sang "Silent Night" together on the battlefield. Standing there, it’s impossible not to feel the song’s profound power to inspire peace, even in the darkest of times."

Travel and Home

Best souvenir to buy at a Christmas market in Austria

Beyond the history, Oberndorf itself feels like a Christmas treasure. The nearby Salzburg Christmas Market, with its scent of cinnamon and mulled wine, makes you feel like a child again. Wandering past stalls filled with hand-carved ornaments and traditional Austrian treats, like buttery Vanillekipferl… Maybe buy a little wooden nativity scene, as a reminder of this special place where a humble carol became a timeless gift to the world.

Travel Tip: Don’t Miss Austria’s Stunning Nativity Scene Tradition

When visiting Austria during the Christmas season, make sure to explore the beautiful community nativity scenes that are a cherished tradition in every town. From December 24th to February 2nd (Candlemas Day), farmers and skilled nativity scene carvers in the Salzburger Land region open their doors to share their handcrafted displays with the public.

This tradition dates back to 1782 when Emperor Joseph II banned churches from setting up nativity scenes. Instead of fading away, the custom flourished as local craftsmen began creating their own intricate depictions of the biblical story of Jesus’ birth. Today, these nativity scenes are a highlight of the Austrian Christmas experience, showcasing incredible artistry and community spirit.

If you’re in the region, plan to visit a few of these displays—they’re one of the most enchanting and authentic parts of the holiday season in Austria!

Where to stay - Best places to stay in Oberndorf

Hotel Alt-Oberndorf is only a few minutes from to the Stille Nacht Kapelle. Book your stay >>

Stadthotel Oberndorf has a 24h Self Check-In Terminal. Mozarteum is 20 km from the hotel, while Mozart’s Birthplace is 20 km away. Salzburg W. A. Mozart Airport is 22 km from the property. From the hotel to the Stille Nacht Platz it is only 3 min (1,2 km) by car.

Travel Tip(s)

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Travel Tip – Can you combine a visit to Oberndorf and Salzburg?

Oberndorf is just a short drive from Salzburg, so take advantage of its proximity. You can explore Salzburg’s beautiful Christmas markets, festive lights, and the charming Old Town, making for a perfect holiday getaway.