Innsbruck is a picturesque city situated on the river Inn, right at the foot of imposing mountain peaks. The smell of roasted chestnut, steaming mugs of Glühwein, and other traditional Christmas delicacies fill the air. During Christmas time in Vienna, you can also enjoy ice skating at Rathausplatz. Glistening lights, seasonal treats, and snow-covered roofs make for a magical experience in Austria's cities and towns. It was here the now world-famous song was first sung. https://www.visitingvienna.com/sightseeing/christmas-markets The Christmas Market on Mirabell Square has become a centre of attraction for young and old over the last few years. Best regards A highlight is the nativity play. Where: KatschbergWhen: back in 2021Every Wednesday and from Friday to Sunday, 2 pm – 8.30 pm. At the landmark of Klagenfurt, the Lindwurm dragon, guests can take a picture at the Christmas tree selfie point and send it directly to their loved ones via free-of-charge City Wifi. And if you have small kids, they’ll enjoy the petting zoo or camel rides. On Tuesdays, there are special offers for seniors like special city walks, discounts, and a music programme. The ‘December Market’ in Vienna, the capital of Austria, dates back to 1298 and is regarded by some as the forerunner to the Christmas Market. DISCLAIMER: This post may have affiliate links. Risks are of breaking down, loosing your luggage, or even worse, having an accident and get injured. The time before Christmas sprinkles a distinct magic across Carinthia. Sit down for an included dinner this evening. In my opinion, Vienna is one of the most beautiful cities on the Planet! View our itinerary to learn more! Christmas Markets in 2020 Please be aware that due to COVID-19 and the associated lockdown, Austria's Christmas markets will not be taking place this year. The Town Hall square is lined with nearly 150 booths selling everything from Christmas gifts to Christmas tree decorations and a wide variety of traditional Viennese food. The Christmas Market on Stephansplatz focuses on contemplation and tradition, with around 40 booths at the foot of St. Stephen's Cathedral offering high-quality products from Austria. This is located in front of the City Hall and features over 150 booths you can browse through to search for handmade decorations, delicious foods, and other Christmas treasures. I have learned that all Christmas Markets in Austria is unique. You can also stroll through the cozy alleys and let yourself be enchanted by the delicious smells of Christmas delicacies. HOW TO GET TO THE DOMPLATZ CHRISTMAS MARKET: The Cathedral is located in the center of the town so it is impossible to miss it, and it is the largest Christmas Market in Salzburg. In summer mostly used as an open-air stage, this place turns into a festively decorated living room for Christmas. The stalls selling unique local arts and crafts are the perfect place to do Christmas shopping for loved ones back home. The main purpose of the two main domains www.austria.info and www.austriatourism.com is the promotion of Austria as a holiday destination. You are absolutely right Alessia, we can get lost in the Christmas Markets for days and still fall in love with them all. Österreich Werbung My first visit to Austria was during Christmas time, and it was so magical and one of the most incredible experiences of my life. At the shores of Wörthersee lake, visitors will find a small Christmas market on the promenade, filled with life by local heritage groups and associations. Markets are encouraged to be independent and creative, meaning a visit to one of the "Advent in Tirol" Christmas markets is a unique experience. This market was by far the best. Our guests are at the heart of everything we do, their feedback fuels our innovation, inspiring us to improve continuously and craft Simply The Best vacations. You can easily stroll under them while taking in history, and all the Christmas spirit. Christmas Markets in Austria From the middle of November until the end of the year, Austria is the place to find romantic Christmas markets. HOW TO GET TO THE HALL IN TIROL CHRISTMAS MARKET: Hall in Tirol is a medieval town about 10 km from the Tyrolean capital of Innsbruck. HOW TO GET TO THE BELVEDERE PALACE CHRISTMAS MARKET: Take tram line D from the city center, or take the metro to Karlsplatz and walk the final leg. Where: Pyramidenkogel towerWhen: back in 2021. The Christkindlmarkt am Domplatz is the largest and most famous Christmas Market in Salzburg has been held at the Cathedral Square since 1974. / Peter Burgstaller, Austrian National Tourist Office Simply drop us an e-mail and we'll be happy to answer your questions: info@austria.info, If you’re in the UK, you can also call us at 00800 400 200 00* At the entrance (where there’s no fee), you are greeted by an overhanging arch filled with gorgeous Christmas decorations. Love love love this post and all of your contributors have done such a fab job of bringing the Christmas market alive for me . The prices are a bit more expensive than anywhere else in the city, but at least it’s served in the cutest mugs ever! Imagine the lights of a Christmas tree rivaling with glistening tiles of the Golden Roof, the aroma of freshly made “Kitchen” (piping hot doughnuts laced with Sauerkaut), and the sound of Christmas carols. I have listed the destinations that are easy to access and to travel between cities, and to give you the opportunity to visit the most magical Christmas Markets in Austria – also, called Advent markets in Austria. If you happen to find yourself in Austria during the holiday season, then here are a few Christmas markets that you … To get you in the mood for Christmas in Austria, Culture Trip has rounded up the best Austrian festive food to feast on. So you can visit even throughout the New year until Three Kings Day. This fortress was built to protect the archbishops and the principality from any possible attacks. In central Vienna, right outside the Town Hall, you’ll find the biggest and quite possibly, the most beautiful One of the best Christmas markets to visit is the Vienna Christmas World Market. Some are decorated extensively, others have simpler themes. We are looking forward to welcoming you again in 2021 with hot Glühwein! Nestled beneath snowed-covered mountains, Innsbruck offers one of the most romantic settings for Christmas markets in Austria. Soak up the sights, smells & sounds as you wander around Kitzbühel, the world renowned ski resort during Advent season. HOW TO GET TO THE AUSFSTERIRERN CHRISTMAS MARKET:  Getting to the market alone is a real adventure already. The market is undoubtedly one of the best Christmas markets in Austria and specializes in local handicraft and art items as well as more rustic and traditional Christmas tree decorations. In Salzburg, you will find Christmas markets placed right outside many historic buildings. / Gregor Semrad, Austrian National Tourist Office Give us a call Monday to Friday from 8am to noon. Buy a ticket to tour the fortress while you’re there, or get a free ticket to spend time at the market and enjoy the castle grounds. HOW TO GET TO THE SEEFELD CHRISTMAS MARKET: From Innsbruck, you can reach the train station in Seefeld, directly adjacent to the pedestrian zone Seefeld, in about 35 minutes. We are looking forward to welcoming you again in 2021 with hot Glühwein! The capital Vienna hosts around 25 markets ranging from the large to the small. At the landmark of Klagenfurt, the Lindwurm dragon, guests can take a picture at the Christmas tree selfie point and send it directly to their loved ones via free-of-charge City Wifi. Some have carnival rides and games for children, others don’t. / Bernhard Luck, Austria's current Coronavirus regulations. The Christmas market is easily reached by bus. Also Christmas specialities like Lebkuchen - gingerbread, Glühwein and a lot of others are offered to the visitors. 2020 When do they start? Fries and baked potatoes are usually available to buy as well. / Helge Bauer, Michael Stabentheiner Christmas market on Hauptplatz in Graz (November 20–December 24, 2020) The city of Graz offers traditional Christmas markets known for beautiful light displays and the nativity scenes made of ice in the Landhaus Courtyard. Kärnten Werbung The traditional huts blend to create a unique atmosphere, along with specia lighting that stretches above the market like romantic stars across the night sky. Seasonal highlights include visits by St Nikolaus and some devil-like Krampusse at the beginning of December, as well as advent singing in mid-December. It is part … So, take your time and don’t rush through this market. I had to control myself for all the days I was visiting the Christmas Markets. Please be aware that due to COVID-19 and the associated lockdown, Austria's Christmas markets will not be taking place this year. If you are not planning to rent a car and drive around Austria, the good news is that there are plenty of great options for tours to experience the magical season, in the comfort of a private tour, with a local guide that speaks English. If you get hungry, head to one of the many food stalls offering typical, hearty Austrian dishes. Request a quote from a reliable source and compare the prices from different car rentals available. All the markets are super cute and you can fell the lovely atmosphere and the vibes. You are about the discover the top 10 most magical and festive Christmas Market in Austria. With its enormous decorations and being located in the heart of Vienna, it’s easy to find! The closest station is Schottentor is 65 meters away or 1 min walk. Austria's current Coronavirus regulations Austria's current Coronavirus regulations Vienna offers more than 20 Christmas Markets around the city, all of them offering beautiful crafts, decorations, and amazing local food to try. The Christmas markets in Vienna truly are an age-old tradition. Where are the most popular Christmas markets in Austria? There is plenty of food, great souvenirs to buy, and great desserts, but there are lines for everything. HOW TO GET TO THE TOWN HALL CHRISTMAS MARKET:  The best way to get to the market is via public transport or walking. Online Escapes; Deals; About. I'm a Brazilian native who calls U.S. home. Check the website listed above for dates. A world traveler, adventure seeker, and an athlete who is always in search of authentic and real-life experiences. The Seefeld Christmas Market is one of 9 Christmas markets in Tyrol, Austria that carry a seal of approval for their authenticity and product quality. We are looking forward to welcoming you again in 2021 with hot Glühwein! is there a better month to go? / Michael Stabentheiner, Bad Kleinkirchheim Tourismus Don't miss the chance to visit one of the most beautiful Christmas Markets at Lake Wolfgang in Strobl, St. Wolfgang, and St. Gilgen. Nestled beneath snowed-covered mountains, Innsbruck offers one of the most romantic settings for Christmas markets in Austria. Austria’s Christmas markets are generally open from late November until right before Christmas, but the dates vary a bit every year. vienna_austria_christmas_market One of the best things to experience in Vienna is its Christmas atmosphere which allows anybody to feel the real spirit of the holiday season with their loved ones. Austria's current Coronavirus regulations. One of the latest additions to Christmas markets in Austria is Linz Christmas market, which is also one of the more authentic Austria Christmas markets that are not commercialised or catering to tourists. Send us a message and we will get back you as soon as we can. Wien Every 30 minutes from 3 – 8 pm, there is a short performance with special effects and a classical music soundtrack. Local craftsmen and exhibitors from the Alpine-Adriatic region present their handicrafts, baked goods, and culinary delights. My first visit to Austria was during Christmas time, and it was so magical and one of the most incredible experiences of my life. Vienna. From local traditions to contemplative winter walks, Seefeld Olympic Region offers a large dose of Christmas spirit during the most wonderful time of the year. As always, you can expect cultural programs and concerts to take place around the trader booths. The Pyramidenkogel viewing tower is 100 metres tall and visible far and wide in the Wörthersee lake region. Graz is the second-largest city in Austria and it is located on the Southeastern side of the country. Austria Christmas Market Tips & Tricks All of Austria’s Christmas markets are unique. The highlight of my trip was to be able to visit many Christmas markets and to fall in love with the culture in Austria, and to experience how the locals spend this special time of the year. Sign up to get travel inspiration & tips, plus motivation for a healthy lifestyle delivered to your inbox, once a month, RV Rental Prices: How much it costs to rent an RV plus tips to save money, RV Rental Road Trip | What you need to know about renting an RV (Bonus: Video), Botswana: 28 things to know before you go on an independent Botswana Camping Safari, A complete guide to the best hikes in Italy, Workout on-the-go: The Best Hotel Room Workout (BONUS: Video + Printable), Best Portable Exercise Equipment for Fitness at home or on the go – Bonus: Workout videos, Hiking on Vacation: A Complete Fitness Preparation Guide, For all travel resources click travel planning, Book your tours and avoid lines https://www.lonelyplanet.com/articles/best-christmas-markets-in-austria Go at night to see the Christmas lights; they are unbelievable. HOW TO GET TO THE HOHENSALZBURG FORTRESS CHRISTMAS MARKET: You will either take a steep but scenic hike or a funicular to get to the market. If you walk at a leisurly pace, you will need about 45 minutes to complete the path. The Christmas market in Innsbruck opens as part of the mountain Christmas from mid-November in 6 different locations in the city, and one of the best markets to visit is the Maria-Theresien-Straße Christmas Market. A-1030 From the middle of November until the end of the year, Austria is the place to find romantic Christmas markets. Where: Pörtschach promenadeWhen: back in 2021Opening hours: Friday 2 - 7 pm; Saturday, Sunday and 7th & 8th December 12 noon - 7 pm. Where: Rathausplatz in VillachWhen: back in 2021Opening hours: Sunday to Thursday 10 am - 7pm; Friday, Saturday and holidays 10 am - 8 pm; Gastronomy until 10 pm, Friday and Saturday until 11 pm. Visiting Vienna during Christmas time is even more magical. . Torch-lit walks and an Advent boat cruise through the "sea of stars" complete the magical experience. HOW TO GET TO THE SCHONBRUNN CHRISTMAS MARKET: You can easily reach the Schonbrunn Christmas market from the main train station in Vienna, by tram. You are about the discover the top 10 most magical and festive Christmas Market in Austria. / Harald Eisenberger, Tourismusregion Klagenfurt am Wörthersee The Katschberg Advent path starts in late November. You can take the cable car up into the mountains for an amazing experience and views of the snow covering the roofs. Ha, How to travel by train from Milan to Lake Como, Italy, Belgium: Brussels for a day – Top 12 Things to experience for a Brussels Day Trip, Austria – Salzburg Winter Guide from Christmas Markets to Mozart. The market doesn’t stop once Christmas is over, though. Twinkling lights are just the beginning to this city’s celebration. Campos obrigatórios são marcados com *. In this market, you can find local arts and crafts, very charming gifts, and a great lively social interaction, besides great views of the city. Each Christmas around 40 stalls set up in front of the baroque palace, selling handcrafted toys, trinkets for your tree, beautifully scented candles, and authentic snow globes. You can enjoy the markets, as you view the historical buildings, as when these two come together, they offer a completely magical experience. Christmas Markets in 2020 Please be aware that due to COVID-19 and the associated lockdown, Austria's Christmas markets will not be taking place this year. Each year, the courtyard from Schonbrunn Palace transforms into a magical land, with stands selling punch and mulled wine, traditional Austrian sweets, and delicious grilled sausages. The biggest and most famous Christmas market, located in front of the Rathaus city hall. (Less crowds if that even possible)Most memorable markets destination? As it’s quite away from all the other Christmas Markets in Vienna, Schonbrunn is not as crowded as others. HOW TO GET TO MARIA-THERESIEN STRAßE CHRISTMAS MARKET: It is easy to access by public transportation, options to take subway lines, light rail, or public bus. There are fires to provide warmth and local choirs and theatre groups provide soulful entertainment. Christmas Markets in Austria 2020. The focus of the market is on crafts and arts, so expect to find some beautiful, stylish artisanal pieces to take home with you. Do you like road trips? I’m from Austria and I’ve been to some of the Christmas markets you mention here but there are still some missing. Christmas Markets of... Christmas Markets of Germany, Switzerland & Austria. Bergisel Christmas Market. An impressive Christmas Market will again take place in front of the St.-Stephan-Cathedral in the old town center of Passau. I recommend and also use reliable insurance through World Nomads. With more than 50 merchants, craftsmen, and chefs, the Christmas Market in Klagenfurt is the biggest and most colourful in Carinthia. Of course, there are huts selling plenty of punch to warm you up too, and typical Austrian treats to curb any hunger pangs. This famous Christmas Market draws countless visitors from all over the world every Christmas season and is also very popular with the locals. Austria’s cosy Christmas markets are world-renowned, with atmospheric, brightly lit stalls emitting warming cinnamon scents from steaming mugs of spicy glühwein (mulled wine) and the sweet scent of daintily decorated biscuits. There are several markets to choose from, but the Old Town Market might be the most atmospheric. The city is very walkable and the most popular Christmas Markets are only walking distance from each other. The Hohensalzburg Fortress Christmas Market in Salzburg is under the linden trees in the castle courtyard is not only the highest Salzburg Christmas Market but also one of the most atmospheric. 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