Snow-covered roofs and trees, festive lights, and the scent of mulled wine and biscuits: Austria’s Christmas markets are famous around the world and there’s little more romantic than taking a stroll on a winter evening, marvelling at the traditional handicrafts and sampling through typical Austrian winter delights and drinks while listening to Christmas songs.
The markets are about to reopen from 12 November, with Vienna leading the way and the rest of the country following shortly.
CHRISTMAS MARKETS IN SALZBURG
The merry bustle of Salzburg’s festive markets is not to be missed! The Christmas Market in the historic city centre was first mentioned in the 15th century and has attracted both locals and visitors ever since. Watch out for events such as choirs in front of the cathedral and special exhibitions.
Visiting Mirabell? Culinary delicacies mulled wine and traditional souvenirs will await you right in front of the palace. The Christmas Market at the Fortress Hohensalzburg boasts spectacular views over the whole city as well as Austrian foods, drinks and handicrafts. There are also several markets just outside the city, including Hellbrunner Adventzauber, a family-friendly market featuring an oversized Advent calendar and sledge rides for children as well as an exciting entertainment programme for all ages.
CHRISTMAS MARKETS IN INNSBRUCK
Decorated with thousands of lights and surrounded by snow-topped mountains, Tirol’s capital is a true Christmas wonderland. The Old Town Christmas Market in the heart of the medieval centre features stalls selling Christmas ornaments, handicrafts, and traditional Tirolean treats such as Kiachln (roughly discs served with everything from Sauerkraut to cranberry sauce). Innsbruck’s main shopping street Maria Theresien Straße turns into a Christmas market as well. The market at Marktplatz (Market Square) features a carousel and a petting zoo. For the best views while
sampling Tirolean delights, take the funicular up to the Hungerberg Christmas Market. LUMAGICA, a magical light park in Innsbruck’s Imperial Gardens featuring more than 300 sculptures, is another winter highlight not to be missed.
CHRISTMAS MARKETS IN GRAZ
Styria’s capital Graz has several Christmas markets within walking distance, the most famous one being the Advent Market in front of the town hall. Easily recognisable by both the huge Christmas tree in the middle of the square and the illuminated Advent Calendar on the building façade, it features dozens of decorated Christmas huts selling festive sweets and drinks, including the signature “Feuerzangenbowle”, a blend of wine and rum set on fire.
Looking for handicrafts or a chance to sample all the local delights? Head to the family-friendly Christmas Market right in front of the Franciscan, the oldest one in town. Other markets include the Christmas Market on Glockenspielplatz and the Ice Nativity Scene in the Landhaushof Courtyard with its life-sized figures carved out of ice.
CHRISTMAS MARKETS IN VIENNA
Austria’s capital has a long tradition of Christmas markets, with the oldest ones dating back to the 13th century. These days, there are over 20 to choose from! The most famous one is the Viennese Dream Christmas Market in front of the town hall, featuring dozens of stalls with Christmas souvenirs and local foods and drinks. Inside the city hall, children can make their own Christmas cookies and candles. Set against the baroque backdrop of the world-famous residence, Christmas Village Belvedere Palace is another market not to be missed.
Heading to Schönbrunn? Christmas Market at Schönbrunn Palace with its approximately 60 stalls is especially well-known for hand-made decoration and freshly made delights. Other markets worth checking out include Spittelberg, St. Stephen’s Square and the Winter Market in front of the Prater.
Fancy a mug of mulled wine with the city at your feet? Head to the rooftop of the Ritz Carlton Hotel for Vienna’s highest Christmas market – and a festive drink in style!
