If visiting the magical Austria Christmas Market is on your bucket list destination, you are in the right place! You are about to discover the top most magical Christmas Markets in Austria to visit in 2023!
My first visit to Austria was during Christmas time, and it was so magical and one of the most incredible experiences of my life! I have learned that all Christmas Markets in Austria are unique. Some focus more on food, some on handcraft, some are great for families and kids, while some are a perfect destination for a romantic couple getaway.
In this article, you will find the top Christmas markets in Austria: Vienna, Innsbruck, Hallstatt, Graz, and Salzburg. Plus, this guide is packed with very helpful information on how to visit, where to stay, how to get there, and more. Also, note that the Austria Christmas market dates can vary from year to year, so I have included the official websites of the respective cities and markets that will provide you with the most accurate and up-to-date information. So without further ado, let’s dive into this amazing list.
You may also love these articles ❤️:
- A complete guide to visiting Hallstatt in Winter
- A complete guide to visiting Salzburg + Best Christmas Markets
- A complete guide to visiting Innsbruck
- Austria Christmas Markets Essentials
- Where are the Most Magical Austria Christmas Markets?
- The Best Christmas Market in Vienna
- The Best Christmas Market in Innsbruck & Tirol
- The Best Christmas Market in Hallstatt
- The Best Christmas Market in Salzburg
- The Best Christmas Market in Graz
- Austria Christmas Market Conclusion
Austria Christmas Markets Essentials
🎄 WHEN TO VISIT THE AUSTRIA CHRISTMAS MARKET:
The Christmas Markets in Austria generally open from late November and they last until right before Christmas day, but dates vary per market and also, a bit every year. Check the opening dates for the Christmas Markets you are planning to visit. To make it easier for you, I have included the official website so you can check the latest updates.
🥨 WHAT TO EAT AND DRINK:
Make sure when you visit the Christmas market in Austria that you are hungry! The food is amazing and there is a big variety of local food and drinks you will want to try. Some of the traditional things you need are to try the fried sausages and goulash soup and have a mug (or a couple) of Glühwein, known as hot, spiced wine.
🎁 WHAT TO BUY AUSTRIA CHRISTMAS MARKET:
You will find a huge variety of high-quality and unique items to buy, believe me, it is hard to leave a Christmas market in Austria without buying anything. The most popular items are Christmas Ornaments, wood carvings, decorations, snow globes, wool items, and much more.
💵 BRING MONEY WITH YOU:
It is a good idea to carry some Euros with you as you will make small purchases such as little gifts, food, and drinks. Not all the stands accept credit cards.
🏨 BOOK HOTEL & TOURS IN ADVANCE:
As soon as you decide on the dates and itinerary, book your hotels. It is a very popular time of the year o visit Austria and hotels tend to book up quickly. In this guide, you will find the best selection of tours and hotels to make your research as easy as possible!
Where are the Most Magical Austria Christmas Markets?
Each Christmas Market in Austria is so unique, so I recommend visiting at least a couple of different ones. Here you can find a quick overview of the destinations that are easy to access and to travel between cities, and give you the opportunity to visit the most magical Christmas Markets in Austria – also, called Advent markets in Austria.
🎄 Vienna Christmas Markets
In my opinion, Vienna is one of the most beautiful cities on the Planet! Visiting Vienna during Christmas time is even more magical.
Vienna offers more than 20 Christmas Markets around the city, all of them offering beautiful crafts, decorations, and amazing local food to try. During Christmas time in Vienna, you can also enjoy ice skating at Rathausplatz. You have the option to book a tour for only US$35 and do a 2.5-hour, small-group winter walking tour of the city
🎄 Innsbruck Christmas Markets
With 6 Christmas Markets and more than 200 stalls, Christmas time in Innsbruck is not only colorful and magical but also, very easy to walk around and visit the city and many Christmas Markets.
Innsbruck has amazing things to do. Also, the location is just magical. It is surrounded by the snowy Alps and it is a perfect fairy tale scenario when you visit the Christmas Markets. You can take the cable car up into the mountains for an amazing experience and views of the snow covering the roofs. You have the option to book a tour to visit Innsbruck Christmas Markets with a local guide.
🎄 Hallstatt Christmas Markets
Visiting Hallstatt in winter is to visit the incredible collection of Christmas traditions that you’ll explore during this time. You also have the option to join this Christmas tour. where you can see the traditional Christmas market in the town square and absorb the festive atmosphere in the historic center. Sip zirbenschnaps, also known as pine cone schnapps, take photos of the nativity scene and eat icing sugar-sprinkled pastries while you admire the Christmas tree.
🎄 Salzburg Christmas Markets
In Salzburg, you will find Christmas markets placed right outside many historic buildings. You can enjoy the markets, as you view the historical buildings, as when these two come together, they offer a completely magical experience. You can easily stroll under them while taking in history, and all the Christmas spirit. You also have the option to visit Salzburg Christmas Market on a day trip from Vienna.
🎄 Graz Christmas Markets
Graz is the second-largest city in Austria and it is located on the Southeastern side of the country. The city is very walkable and the most popular Christmas Markets are only within walking distance from each other. The Christmas Markets are magical, with the backdrop of the city’s Christmas lights which are lit daily from 4:30 pm until midnight.
How does Graz celebrate Christmas? How many Christmas markets are in Graz? Discover a wide variety of Styrian traditions and customs, which include a wide range of seasonal products, including the traditional Glühwein with this private tour.
The Best Christmas Market in Vienna
1. TOWN HALL CHRISTMAS MARKET: The largest Christmas Market in Vienna
🎄CHECK DATE & TIME: Official website
📌 LOCATION: On the square in front of the City Hall
🎄WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS AUSTRIA CHRISTMAS MARKET:
In central Vienna, right outside the Town Hall, you’ll find the biggest and quite possibly, the most beautiful Christmas market in Austria, the Chriskindlmarkt at Rathausplatz. Also known as the Vienna Christmas Dream, this market is the place to be if you want to experience a traditional Austrian Christmas market during the festive season.
At the entrance (where there’s no fee), you are greeted by an overhanging arch filled with gorgeous Christmas decorations. 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.
While you are wandering through the market, it’s best to admire all of the items at the booths while sipping on traditional Austrian Glühwein (mulled wine) and munching on some delicious roasted chestnuts – a real Austrian treat!
Not only is the market known for its fantastic booths, but adjacent to the market is the ice rink, located in the Rathauspark, another reason to visit this beautiful Christmas Market in Vienna!
🚶HOW TO GET THERE: The best way to get to the market is via public transport or walking. You can catch Tram 1, 72, or D, which stops right outside the market. With its enormous decorations and being located in the heart of Vienna, it’s easy to find! Or you can also book a very affordable tour, and visit the Christmas Market with a local guide.
🏨 WHERE TO STAY: Hotel Stefanie (⭐️ 9.0) is the oldest hotel in Vienna, with over 400 years old of history and a great location, only 250 feet from the Gredlerstraße Tram Stop.
🎅 RECOMMENDED TOUR: This Vienna Christmas Markets Tour walking tour takes you to some of Vienna’s traditional Christmas Markets to see the magical holiday decorations and handicrafts that reflect the season. Also, while you are exploring Christmas in Viena, one of the traditions and a must-do is to go to St. Peter’s Church for the famous Christmas and New Year concert. It is recommended to book your ticket in advance.
2. BELVEDERE PALACE – The most impressive Austria Christmas Market
🎄CHECK DATE & TIME: Official website
📌 LOCATION: Belvedere Palace, Prinz Eugen-Straße
🎄WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS AUSTRIA CHRISTMAS MARKET:
The event at Belvedere Palace is one of the most, if not the most, impressive Christmas markets in Vienna. The whole palace lights up for the occasion, and it’s a joy to witness from every angle.
Not least from the Landstraßer Gürtel entrance where you’ll be wowed by the palace’s reflection in the decorative lake in front.
Each Christmas around 40 stalls are set up in front of the baroque palace, selling handcrafted toys, trinkets for your tree, beautifully scented candles, and authentic snow globes. Of course, there are huts selling plenty of punch to warm you up too, and typical Austrian treats to curb any hunger pangs.
There are often bands or singing groups providing entertainment in the evenings and if you arrive early enough, you can combine your visit with a look around the art museum that’s housed within the palace. This is a particularly romantic market for couples to enjoy, and one which doesn’t normally get as busy as Schönbrunn, or those in the city center.
🚶HOW TO GET THERE: Take tram line D from the city center, or take the metro U1 U-Bahn station Südtiroler Platz – Hauptbahnhof
🏨 WHERE TO STAY: Adina Apartment Hotel Vienna Belvedere (⭐️ 9.1) has a great location, this 4-star hotel offers a buffet breakfast, sauna, and indoor pool, and very high reviews from customers.
🎅 RECOMMENDED TOUR: Don’t miss a tour of the Belvedere Palace and you buy your ticket in advance and skip the line and the crowds.
3. SCHONBRUNN PALACE – Royal Atmosphere Christmas Market in Vienna
🎄CHECK DATE & TIME: Official website
📌 LOCATION: Parade Court, in front of Schönbrunn Palace
🎄WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS AUSTRIA CHRISTMAS MARKET:
The Christmas Market from the Schonbrunn Palace is without a doubt one of the most beautiful in Vienna. 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 focus of the market is on crafts and arts, so expect to find some beautiful, stylish artisanal pieces to take home with you. What makes this Christmas market special is the royal atmosphere of the Schonbrunn Palace.
It’s even better if you have watched the 1955 Sissi movie, the princess’s summer residence. For the Christmas market, all the decorations are carefully chosen to be silver and gold, which couldn’t be more royal, especially with the impressive palace as a backdrop. As it’s quite away from all the other Christmas Markets in Vienna, Schonbrunn is not as crowded as others.
Like all the main Christmas markets in Vienna, the one from the Schonbrunn Palace has its own mug design, which changes each year. You can take the mug home with you, as a souvenir, by not returning it and taking your deposit back.
🚶HOW TO GET THERE: You can easily reach the Schonbrunn Christmas market from the main train station in Vienna, by taking the Metro U4 U-Bahn station Schönbrunn. You can even walk if it’s not too cold.
🏨 WHERE TO STAY: Boutique Hotel Das Tigra (⭐️ 9.0) is a family-run hotel that offers a very central location on a quiet street in the heart of Vienna, just a 10-minute walk away from Saint Stephen’s Cathedral. The Herrengasse Underground Station (line U3) is only a 3-minute walk from the hotel.
🎅 RECOMMENDED TOUR: Even if you are visiting just for a few hours, you can still pretend and feel you are a princess here. Make sure if you are planning to visit the Schonbrunn Palace during Christmas time, you book your tour in advance and skip the lines and the crowds.
4. SPITTELBERT CHRISTMAS MARKET – A Smaller and cozy Christmas Market n Vienna
🎄CHECK DATE & TIME: Official website
📌 LOCATION: Spittelberg district
🎄WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS AUSTRIA CHRISTMAS MARKET:
If you love smaller, cozy Christmas markets, Vienna’s Spittelberg Christmas Market is for you. Spittelberg is a sweet and utterly charming little neighborhood that is located around the Museums Quartier. Even if you’re not visiting during the holiday season, it’s 100% worth it to wander around its adorable narrow streets and courtyards, which are filled with restaurants, bars, concept shops, and galleries.
The Christmas market winds its way through these streets and courtyards, which are beautifully decored with twinkling lights, making it feel a lot more intimate, cozy, and fun to explore.
Amongst the Spitterlberg Christmas Market’s stalls, you’ll find plenty of food and drinks like Christmas-inspired decorated cupcakes, unique homemade liquors, chocolates, and waffles.
Other stalls sell anything from soaps and candles to jewelry to clothing, so even though the market is small, there’s enough variety to keep you interested. Vienna hosts many big and impressive Christmas markets, but I’m certain that this one will steal your heart, and you definitely won’t regret adding it to your Vienna itinerary.
🚶HOW TO GET THERE: You can take Tram 49 (get off at Stiftgasse), buses 2A (to Stiftgasse), and 48A (to Sankt Ulrichs Platz), or the Subway’s U3 (get off at Volkstheater).
🏨 WHERE TO STAY: NH Collection Wien Zentrum (⭐️ 8.8) is a nearly renovated hotel, located on Mariahilfer Straße, Vienna’s biggest shopping street, St. Stephen’s Cathedral in the city center can be reached underground in about 8 minutes. If you are driving, they offer a private parking garage and it is a great option in Viena.
🎅 RECOMMENDED TOUR: You can book in advance a Vienna Christmas Market tour and visit the best markets with a local guide.
The Best Christmas Market in Innsbruck & Tirol
5. HALL IN TYROL CHRISTMAS MARKETS – The family magical Christmas Market in Austria
🎄CHECK DATE & TIME: Official website
📌 LOCATION: Marktplatz (Market Square)
🎄WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS AUSTRIA CHRISTMAS MARKET:
The Christmas market in Hall in Tirol is one of the best Christmas markets in Austria if you’re looking for a traditional medieval setting. Surrounded by centuries-old buildings and narrow cobbled lanes, this market is small and intimate compared to big city markets.
No wonder it’s a favorite among the locals to spend enjoyable evenings drinking, eating, and shopping away from the bigger tourist crowds in nearby Innsbruck. The Hall Christmas market usually opens on the 2nd last Friday of November and remains open daily until 24 December.
What makes this market special is the numbers of the Advent calendar on the buildings around the upper town square. They disappear one by one as Christmas day approaches.
If you’re at the market in Hall in Tirol around 18:00 every evening, you’ll hear trumpeters play traditional Christmas melodies. Make sure to get a mug of hot Glühwein to sip on while you listen. Afterward, treat yourself to a Kiachl (fried dough with a filling), some Käsespätzle (Austria’s version of macaroni and cheese), or roasted nuts.
The stalls selling unique local arts and crafts are the perfect place to do Christmas shopping for loved ones back home. And if you have small kids, they’ll enjoy the petting zoo or camel rides.
🚶HOW TO GET THERE: Hall in Tirol is a medieval town about 10 km from the Tyrolean capital of Innsbruck. The Christmas market is easily reached by bus. Arriving by train is also possible, but requires a 15 to 20-minute walk to get to the old town. You have the option to book a tour with a local guide to visit the Innsbruck Christmas Market.
🏨 WHERE TO STAY: Altstadthotel Weißes Kreuz (⭐️ 9.2) is centrally located in the pedestrian area in the historic heart of Innsbruck, this traditional historical hotel has been built in 1465 and entirely renovated in 2020. Note that they are located in the pedestrian zone and don’t have parking at the hotel.
🎅 RECOMMENDED TOUR: With this tour with a local guide you will explore the region, history, culture, typical dishes and 100% awareness of South Tyrol.
6. SEEFELD CHRISTMAS MARKET – A charming Christmas Market in Austria
🎄CHECK DATE & TIME: Official website
📌 LOCATION: Seefeld 6100 Seefeldm the Garmisch Partenkirchen tain station is just a few minute’s walk away
🎄WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS AUSTRIA CHRISTMAS MARKET:
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. This cozy market next to the village church in the center of Seefeld in Tirol is attracting more visitors every year.
The train station that brings visitors from Innsbruck and Garmisch Partenkirchen is just a few minute’s walk away. Seefeld is on a sunny plateau which makes it a beloved holiday region in winter and summer.
But when the sun goes down, the welcoming lights of the Christmas market turn the village into a romantic festive wonderland. The smell of roasted chestnut, steaming mugs of Glühwein, and other traditional Christmas delicacies fill the air.
There are fires to provide warmth and local choirs and theatre groups provide soulful entertainment. The Seefeld Christmas Market is open daily from the end of November to the beginning of January. 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.
🚶HOW TO GET THERE: From Innsbruck, you can reach the train station in Seefeld, directly adjacent to the pedestrian zone Seefeld, in about 35 minutes.
🏨 WHERE TO STAY: The family-run Hotel Maximilian (⭐️ 8.9) is located in the heart of Innsbruck’s Old Town, next to a pedestrian zone, offering air-conditioned rooms and free WiFi.
🎅 RECOMMENDED TOUR: Along the tour, you will have the chance to learn more about Salzburg, some of the famous locations where the movie was filmed, and learn more about the famous Von Trapp family. This tour tends to sell out, so you can guarantee your booking it in advance.
7. MARKET MARIA-THERESIEN STRAßE – Christmas Market with picturesque mountain views
🎄CHECK DATE & TIME: Official website
📌 LOCATION: Maria Theresien Straße
🎄WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS AUSTRIA CHRISTMAS MARKET:
Innsbruck has amazing things to do, and it is one of the most popular destinations in Austria for winter sports enthusiasts, and also, a great place for visiting the Christmas Markets. 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.
It is surrounded by a sparkling sea of modern Christmas lights. A special eye-catcher is the illuminated mountain crystal that towers up above the market and watches over the stalls, lined by trees covered in tiny, sparkling lights and is home to approx. 30 market stalls that offer winter cuisine and gift ideas.
Innsbruck is a picturesque city situated on the River Inn, right at the foot of imposing mountain peaks. The Nordketten cable car takes you comfortably from the city center to lofty heights of over 2,200 meters. You can also stroll through the cozy alleys and let yourself be enchanted by the delicious smells of Christmas delicacies. Every evening there is live Christmas music here.
🚶HOW TO GET THERE: It is easy to access public transportation, with options to take subway lines, light rail, or public buses. The closest station is Schottentor is 65 meters away or a 1 min walk.
🏨 WHERE TO STAY: The Nala Individuellhotel (⭐️ 4.5/5) is located in the center of Innsbruck, with a terrace that overlooks the surrounding mountains, a 24-hour reception, and a bicycle rental, and their breakfast is exceptional!
🎅 RECOMMENDED TOUR: While in Innsbruck, you can consider to visit the Ambras Castle. It is one of the most visited attractions in Innsbruck. You can book your ticket in advance and skip the line.
The Best Christmas Market in Hallstatt
8. Hallstatt Advent Market: The Fairy Tale Christmas Market in Austria
🎄CHECK DATE & TIME: Official website
📌 LOCATION: Market Square Hallstatt (Marktplatz Hallstatt), Marktplatz, 4830 Hallstatt
🎄WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS AUSTRIA CHRISTMAS MARKET:
The Hallstatt Advent Market is set against the stunning backdrop of the village and the lake. It features beautifully decorated stalls offering local crafts, handmade gifts, and traditional Austrian treats. The market is characterized by its cozy and intimate atmosphere, which complements the stunning winter scenery. You can enjoy warm mulled wine, regional delicacies, and the opportunity to purchase unique souvenirs.
In addition to the Advent market, exploring Hallstatt during the winter offers the chance to witness the village’s fairytale-like beauty, with charming houses reflected in the calm waters of the lake. The snow-capped peaks add to the magical ambiance. You can take a leisurely stroll through the narrow streets, visit the historic church, and enjoy the serene winter landscape.
While Hallstatt’s Advent market may not be as extensive as those in larger cities, it’s picturesque setting, cozy atmosphere, and unique alpine charm make it a wonderful destination to experience the holiday spirit in a more intimate and scenic setting.
🚶HOW TO GET THERE: Hallstatt is a very small walkable town. Once you arrive in Hallstatt, the Christmas Market is located in the village center, often near the lakeshore or within walking distance.
🏨 WHERE TO STAY: Boutique hotel Strand Hallstatt – Adults only (⭐️ 9.6) If you are looking for the best in a house (aka Hallstatt Lake and mountains) this hotel is for you! The accommodation is very comfortable, with free private parking, a private beach area, and a terrace.
🎅 RECOMMENDED TOUR: You also have the option to join this Christmas tour. where you can see the traditional Christmas market in the town square and absorb the festive atmosphere in the historic center.
The Best Christmas Market in Salzburg
9. SALZBURG’S CHRISTMAS MARKET IN THE CITY CENTER – A Christmas Market in the city of Mozart
🎄CHECK DATE & TIME: Official website
📌 LOCATION: On Cathedral and Residenz Square, in Salzburg’s historic city center
🎄WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS AUSTRIA CHRISTMAS MARKET:
Home to Mozart and “The Sound of Music”; named a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its amazing preserved baroque architecture and unique blend of German and Italian influence, Salzburg is a perfect winter destination in Europe.
The Christkindlmarkt am Domplatz is the largest and most famous Christmas Market in Salzburg and has been held at Cathedral Square since 1974.
This famous Christmas Market draws countless visitors from all over the world every Christmas season and is also very popular with the locals. The traditional huts blend to create a unique atmosphere, along with special lighting that stretches above the market like romantic stars across the night sky.
The organizers have also ensured that visitors are treated to a colorful daily events program that includes readings of Christmas stories for children, Krampus parades, guided Christmas tours, choral concerts, visits by the “Christ Child”, and festive melodies performed from the surrounding towers, and so much more.
🚶HOW TO GET THERE: 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. You also have the option to visit the Salzburg Christmas Market on a day trip from Vienna.
🏨 WHERE TO STAY: Imaluer Hotel Pitter (⭐️ 9.9) is recently renovated, and offers a panoramic view over the city and its surrounding from the IMLAUER Sky – Bar & Restaurant. You can enjoy a central location in close proximity to many of the famous landmarks and sights of Salzburg.
🎅 RECOMMENDED TOUR: Along the tour, you will have the chance to learn more about Salzburg, some of the famous locations where the movie was filmed, and learn more about the famous Von Trapp family. This tour tends to sell out, so you can guarantee your booking it in advance.
10. HOHENSALZBURG FORTRESS COURTYARD – Magical Christmas Market in the Castle
🎄CHECK DATE & TIME: Official website
📌 LOCATION: Fortress Hohensalzburg
🎄WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS AUSTRIA CHRISTMAS MARKET:
The Hohensalzburg Fortress Christmas Market in Salzburg is under the Linden trees in the castle courtyard and is not only the highest Salzburg Christmas Market but also one of the most atmospheric.
The Hohensalzburg fortress was built in 1077, and it was one of Europe’s largest castles at that time, and it is actually the largest preserved castle in central Europe. This fortress was built to protect the archbishops and the principality from any possible attacks.
Lit by traditional Herrnhuter stars, the quaint courtyard is a merry place to shop for local crafts and listen to live music. A free, supervised children’s workshop in the “Children’s Hödlmoser atelier” features Christmas music, cookie-baking, arts and crafts, and provides entertainment from 2.00 to 5.00 p.m
The stalls offer a fine selection of Salzburg delicacies, local handicrafts, and gift ideas. 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.
🚶HOW TO GET THERE: You will either take a steep but scenic hike or a funicular to get to the market. The view over the city is worth the climb. 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 – If you are interested in a day trip from Vienna to visit the Salzburg Christmas Market, it is a great option to book this tour.
🏨 WHERE TO STAY: Villa Flöckner (⭐️ 9.2) is located less than 0.6 mi from Mirabell Palace, close to Hohensalzburg Fortress, Getreidegasse, and Mozart’s Birthplace. Private parking is available on-site.
🎅 RECOMMENDED TOUR: I also recommend booking in advance your ticket to visit the Hohensazlburg fortress, as it is a place you don’t want to miss during your visit to Salzburg.
11. CHRISTMAS MARKET ON MIRABELL SQUARE – One of my personal preferences!
🎄CHECK DATE & TIME: Official website
📌 LOCATION: Mirabell Square, Goethestraße
🎄WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS AUSTRIA CHRISTMAS MARKET:
Christmas Market on Mirabell Square in Salzburg captures the essence of the holiday season, combining tradition, craftsmanship, gastronomy, and a sense of wonderment that makes it a standout destination among Austria’s many Christmas markets. Considered one of the most enchanting and captivating holiday markets in the country.
The market’s location in the heart of Salzburg is nothing short of picturesque. Surrounded by iconic landmarks like the Mirabell Palace and its beautifully manicured gardens, the setting exudes a fairytale-like quality that amplifies the festive ambiance.
Here you can find stalls offering an assortment of traditional crafts, unique gifts, and locally made products. You will find everything from handcrafted ornaments and woodcarvings to textiles and pottery, making it an ideal spot for finding one-of-a-kind souvenirs and presents. The market goes beyond shopping and eating with a range of entertainment and activities. Carolers, live music performances, and cultural events add a dynamic touch to the festive atmosphere, making it a joyful experience for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.
🚶HOW TO GET THERE: Salzburg is well-connected by various modes of transportation, including trains and buses. If you’re arriving by air, the Salzburg Airport offers international connections. Once in Salzburg, the market is easily accessible by foot or public transportation.
🏨 WHERE TO STAY: Townhouse Tessa by Heym Collections (⭐️ 9.9) – carefully renovated 16th-century building located in the historic center of Salzburg, 200 meters from Salzburg Cathedral and 500 meters from Festival Hall
🎅 RECOMMENDED TOUR: This Silent Night Oberndorf Christmas Eve Tour from Salzburg is an amazing tour to enjoy the festive Christmas Eve celebrations in the Silent Night Chapel in Oberndorf, near Salzburg. It was here the now world-famous song was first sung. Drink your fill of the magical atmosphere, among the snow-covered foothills of the Alps.
The Best Christmas Market in Graz
12. AUFSTERIREN AT THE SCHLOSSBERG: The coolest Austria Christmas Market
🎄CHECK DATE & TIME: Official website
📌 LOCATION: Am Schlossberg, 8010 Graz
🎄WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS AUSTRIA CHRISTMAS MARKET:
Located in a former castle moat called “Kasematten” on top of the Schlossberg hill you can find the “Aufsteirern” Christmas market in Graz.
In summer mostly used as an open-air stage, this place turns into a festively decorated living room for Christmas. Both, its special location and unique ambiance make this Christmas market one of the coolest ones in Austria!
Once at the Christmas market, don’t miss out on the delicious and fruity mulled wine. The prices are a bit more expensive than anywhere else in the city, but at least it’s served in the cutest mugs ever! If you get hungry, head to one of the many food stalls offering typical, hearty Austrian dishes.
Most of them are very meat-heavy but don’t worry if you’re vegetarian or vegan. Fries and baked potatoes are usually available to buy as well. Besides the mulled wine and food stalls, you can also find locals selling handmade crafts such as decoration, jewelry, and other nice stuff.
So, take your time and don’t rush through this market. Otherwise, you’ll miss out on the most beautiful souvenirs to buy!
🚶HOW TO GET THERE: Getting to the market alone is a real adventure already. If you’re fit enough, you can either climb up some steep stairs or follow the road up on the backside of the hill. A more convenient way is to take the Schlossberg funicular. As soon as you’re on top of the Schlossberg simply follow the signs saying “Aufsteirern”. You also have the option to visit the main Christmas Markets in Graz with a private local guide.
🏨 WHERE TO STAY: Schlossberghotel (⭐️ 9.1) Decorated with antiquities and works of art, this hotel is a great option because it is located at a central location directly at the foot of the Schlossberg in the historic city center of Graz, and it is rated as excellent by the guests.
🎅 RECOMMENDED TOUR: If you are planning to visit Graz during Christmas time and want to take a private 2 hours Christmas Market tour, I recommend booking in advance and enjoying the magical markets.
13. CHRISTMAS MARKET AT HAUPTPLATZ – The most famous and iconic Christmas Market in Graz
🎄CHECK DATE & TIME: Official website
📌 LOCATION: In front of the City Hall, Hauptplatz | Hauptplatz 1, 8010 Graz
🎄WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS AUSTRIA CHRISTMAS MARKET:
Last, but not least on this list of the most magical Christmas Markets in Austria is the Hauptplatz in Graz. A captivating seasonal wonderland that enchants visitors with its festive allure. Set against the backdrop of the historic Hauptplatz, this market exudes a magical atmosphere with its beautifully decorated stalls, sparkling lights, and the grand Christmas tree at its center.
What sets this market apart is its blend of tradition and innovation, offering a diverse array of handcrafted ornaments, gifts, and delectable Austrian delicacies. You can indulge in warm mulled wine, savor roasted chestnuts, and sample regional treats. Also, special events for families and children take place every Sunday.
This market is close to the Rathaus (City Hall) adds to the charm, making it an ideal spot for shopping, mingling, and enjoying live performances. Whether you’re seeking unique presents or immersing in the festive ambiance, the Christmas Market at Hauptplatz in Graz promises an enchanting holiday experience.
🚶HOW TO GET THERE: Graz has an efficient public transportation system that includes trams and buses. Depending on your starting point, you’ll want to find a tram or bus line that takes you to Graz’s city center. The Hauptplatz is a central location, so many tram and bus lines will have stops nearby.
🏨 WHERE TO STAY: Schlossberghotel (⭐️ 9.1) Decorated with antiquities and works of art, this hotel is a great option because it is located at a central location directly at the foot of the Schlossberg in the historic city center of Graz, and it is rated as excellent by the guests.
🎅 RECOMMENDED TOUR: If you are planning to visit Graz during Christmas time and want to take a private 2 hours Christmas Market tour, I recommend booking in advance and enjoying the magical markets.
Austria Christmas Market Conclusion
Christmas time in Austria is magic! The beauty of the country gets even more complete when you get to see some of the best Christmas markets in Austria and discover the sights, sounds, tastes, and traditions, attracting millions of visitors every season.
There are amazing things to do in Austria during wintertime you are planning to spend Christmas in Austria, you will be amazed to find out all the amazing things to do in Austria in winter. From museums to all the festive Christmas decorations to the amazing enchanting Christmas markets in Vienna.
Each Christmas Market in Austria is so unique, so I recommend visiting at least a couple of different ones, and don’t forget to try some of the traditional food and drinks such as the fried sausages and goulash soup and to have a mug (or a couple) of Glühwein.
I hope you enjoyed this guide to the 10 Most Magical Christmas Markets in Austria, and if you have any questions, just leave me a comment below.
You may also enjoy reading:
- 10 Best Things to do in Innsbruck
- Winter guide to Salzburg and Christmas Market
- Ultimate Hallstatt Winter Guide
- How to explore Brussels, Belgium in 1-day
- 30 Dream Destinations for Your Bucket List
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Love all those Chrismas markets. I have been last year in Austria around Xmas time and I loved it. All the markets are super cute and you can fell the lovely atmosphere and the vibes.
This post had me sighing all the time- what lovely vistas and look at all those gorgeous stuff to buy. Love love love this post and all of your contributors have done such a fab job of bringing the Christmas market alive for me 🙂
I have only been to Innsbruck in Austria and it was right after Christmas, so there weren’t any of the markets open, but I would love to return and explore more of Austria (especially Vienna) during Christmas.
I’m from Austria and I’ve been to some of the Christmas markets you mention here but there are still some missing. Hope I get the chance to visit them in the future!
These Christmas markets look so good! I loved visiting Vienna but really want to go back during the holiday season. Salzburg looks magical at Christmas.
I am so glad to hear you enjoyed this Krista. Austria is magical any time of the year, but I think that during holidays it is even more incredible.
Awesome to hear you are from Austria Maria, how lucky you are. Austria is hands down one of the most beautiful countries I’ve visited.
You are absolutely right Alessia, we can get lost in the Christmas Markets for days and still fall in love with them all.
I know right? ha ha…it is dangerous to not want to buy everything. I had to control myself for all the days I was visiting the Christmas Markets.
Hi Elina, oh you will love Vienna during Christmas time – Vienna is gorgeous always, but during Christmas time it is just magical