The most wonderful time of the year is finally here. The idea of wandering in magical Christmas Markets while sipping hot drinks in the cold weather is a dream for us all, Austria has always been the place to find romantic Christmas markets. Glistening lights, seasonal treats, and snow-covered roofs are all things we’re here for.
Vienna
Literally out of a Disney fairytale. It’s the combination of beautiful streets of Vienna as your backdrop and the Christmas decoration that makes the experience magical.
Punch and chestnut stands draw customers with seasonal treats and stallholders get shoppers in the Christmas spirit with handcrafted goods.
The tradition started in 1296 when Albrecht I granted Vienna's citizens the privilege of holding a December Market or "Krippenmarkt".
Nowadays, only in Vienna over 20 official Advent markets sell a vast array of seasonal gifts and mouth-watering treats.
Viennese Dream Christmas Market
Located in front of the City Hall, this market is a true representation of the holidays spirit. You inhale the delicious aromas the minute you pass nearby.
There are plenty of fun activities for the little ones Inside the City Hall on the ground floor where they can learn how to make Christmas cookies or candles.
You can also listen to international choirs singing carols while enjoy delicious Christmas treats.
Viennese Dream Christmas Market
© OEW, Christian Kremser
Christmas Village Belvedere Palace
This one will bless your social media feed. The popular Christmas Village Belvedere Palace is set against the glorious baroque backdrop of the world-famous residence, one of Vienna‘s most beautiful and significant sights.
Here you can visit more than 40 festively decorated market stalls that offer traditional handcrafted goods, elaborate Christmas decorations and special culinary delights.
Christmas Village Belvedere Palace
© OEW, Popp-Hackner
Christmas Market at Schönbrunn Palace
Another treat to all your senses. The fragrance of freshly baked Vanillekipferl and hot punch fills the air and creates a wonderful atmosphere.
There are 60 exhibitors present handicrafts and original gifts such as hand-made Christmas decorations and nativity sets right in front of the famous Schönbrunn Palace.
Christmas Market at Schönbrunn Palace
© OEW, Christian Kremser
Innsbruck
Straight out of a Hollywood Christmas movie! The lights of a Christmas tree rivalling with glistening tiles of the Golden Roof, the aroma of freshly made “Kiachln” (piping hot doughnuts laced with Sauerkraut), and the sound of Christmas carols. This is Christmas time in Innsbruck
Old Town Christmas Market
You can find whatever you wish for here. Strolling through the market, you will see ornaments, handicrafts, and other winter treats you can buy for yourself or as a gift. Traditional dishes such as Kiachln and a mug of hot chocolate will keep you warm as you meet new people.
Old Town Christmas Market
© Innsbruck Tourismus, Christof Lackner
Christmas Market Maria-Theresien Straße
Innsbruck's main shopping street has always dazzeled visitors at the Maria Theresien Straße Christmas Market.
This is a more of a Modern Christmas market offering an exciting range of souvenirs supplement the traditional Christmas market offerings.
Christmas Market Maria-Theresien Straße
© Innsbruck Tourismus
Panorama Christmas Market on Hungerburg
A true Christmas adventure to remember. The funicular railway line promises to make your journey to the Hungerburg Christmas Market one in a lifetime.
Once at the top, you’ll thank us for the mesmerizing views of Innsbruck and its surroundings, but also plenty of culinary delights and a wide range of Christmas souvenirs.
Panorama Christmas Market on Hungerburg
© Innsbruck Tourismus, Christof Lackner
Salzburg
Listen to the church’s bells announcing that Christmas is near while gazing at to the city's snow-covered roofs, domes, and towers next to the Christmas markets.
A romantic scenery awaits those who are in love as they walk across the city's hilltops and see the breathtaking view of the city.
The merry bustle of the Salzburg Christmas market touches all. The aroma of punch and toasted almonds, hot roasted chestnuts and freshly baked apples envelopes you, and the vendors' gingerbread hearts, nativity figures, Christmas tree ornaments, toys, and snug knitwear will make you feel like a little child again.
Salzburg's Christmas Market in the City Centre
Goes far back as the 15th century. This market boasts a programme of events such as choral singing in front of the cathedral, "Turmblasen" (wind instruments) on Residenz Square, and nativity exhibits in the Residenz courtyard await you.
It is located at the foot of the Hohensalzburg fortress and around the venerable Cathedral of Salzburg.
Salzburg's Christmas Market in the City Centre
© Salzburgerland Tourismus
Advent Magic in Hellbrunn
The IT spot for that Christmas Instagram post. A courtyard, a path lined by torches and an oversized Advent calendar are part of the Hellbrunner Adventzauber. Romantic booths, tempting treats and pre-Christmas gift ideas add to the charming atmosphere.
Little ones can have their dreams come true as they ride a sledge drawn by real reindeer, and an exciting entertainment programme between the orangery and the park will assure festive Advent afternoons at Hellbrunn Palace for all.
Advent Magic in Hellbrunn
© Tourismus Salzburg GmbH, Günter Breitegger