November 11, 2021 -Countdown to Christmas:
Explore Austria’s Festive Markets 
 
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 local winter delights and drinks. The markets are about to reopen from
12 November, with Vienna leading the way and the rest of the country following shortly.

PLEASE NOTE: Due to rising COVID cases in Austria, entry requirements to attend the Christmas markets will be in effect. Find out more about the latest COVID-19 rules here!

Austria’s christmas markets

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 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.

The Best Christmas Markets in Salzburg & SalzburgerLand

 
 
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 Tirolean treats such as Kiachln (doughly 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 the 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 with more than 300 sculptures, is another winter highlight not to be missed.

The Best Christmas Markets in Innsbruck & Tirol
 
 
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 church, the oldest one in town. Other markets include the Christmas Market on Glockenspielplatz and the Ice Navity Scene in the Landhaushof Courtyard with its life-sized figures carved out of ice.

The Best Christmas Markets in Graz and Styria
 
 
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 first one to open on 12 November is the Viennese Dream Christmas Market in front of the town hall, featuring dozens of stalls with Christmas souvenirs, foods and drinks. Christmas Village Belvedere Palace, the Christmas Market at Schönbrunn Palace, Spittelberg, St. Stephen’s Square and the Winter Market in front of the Prater are others well worth checking out.

The Best Christmas Markets in Vienna

For high-res images or further information, please contact pressuk@austria.info

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