Christmas is just around the corner, and Austria is traditionally one of the most enchanting destinations in Europe thanks to its legendary Christmas markets. I’ve put together a guide to the best Austria Christmas markets that are absolutely worth visiting this year – here are 7 top picks for you.
Austria Christmas Markets: A Brief History
Austrian Christmas markets have deep roots stretching back to the Middle Ages. The earliest records date back to the 13th century, when so-called “Decembermarkts” were held. These markets were originally intended mainly for stocking up on winter supplies, but over time they took on a more festive character and became associated with Christmas celebrations.
One of the oldest Christmas markets in Austria is the Christkindlmarkt in Vienna, which was first held in 1298 when Emperor Albrecht I granted the city the right to hold a winter market. Over the centuries, this market evolved into the spectacular event we know today – with illuminated stalls, the aroma of mulled wine and roasted chestnuts, and a rich programme of accompanying events.
The tradition of Christmas markets gradually spread to other Austrian cities. Salzburg, famous for its baroque architecture and connection to Mozart, has been hosting the Christkindlmarkt at Domplatz since the 15th century.
💡You might also like: Christmas Markets in Poland
7 Best Austria Christmas Markets
If you’re planning a trip to the Christmas markets in Austria this year, I’ve compiled a list of 7 of the most beautiful ones that are truly worth a visit.
💡TIP: Looking for accommodation near the Christmas markets? You can find great deals on Booking.com.
Salzburg
Salzburg’s Christkindlmarkt at Domplatz is one of the oldest Christmas markets in Europe. In addition to traditional stalls with handcrafted goods and delicacies, you can enjoy Christmas concerts and craft workshops for children.
Vienna
Vienna’s Christmas markets spread across the entire city each year. The most famous is the Rathausplatz Christmas market, which draws visitors with more than 150 stalls and a magnificent Christmas tree.
💡TIP: What to See in Vienna
Seefeld
In the picturesque mountain resort of Seefeld, you’ll find Christmas markets straight out of a fairy tale. Stalls surround the historic centre, decorated with twinkling lights and festive ornaments. The market offers handmade gifts, traditional Tyrolean specialities such as strudel and roasted chestnuts, and of course mulled wine and punch.
Children can enjoy horse-drawn sleigh rides or take part in Advent craft workshops. The atmosphere is complemented by Christmas music concerts and church choirs.
Innsbruck
The Christmas markets in Innsbruck are among the most beautiful in Austria, thanks largely to the backdrop of snow-capped Alps and historic architecture. The most famous market is located in the city centre beneath the Golden Roof (Goldenes Dachl), where stalls sell artisan crafts, Christmas decorations, and traditional Tyrolean treats.
You’ll find additional markets at Marktplatz, which features a huge Christmas tree and attractions for children, or at Hungerburg, which you can reach by cable car to enjoy stunning views of the illuminated city below.
Graz
Graz literally glows during Advent. You’ll find several Christmas markets here – the main one spreads across Hauptplatz, where a grand Christmas tree stands surrounded by rows of stalls offering artisan crafts and refreshments. Also worth a visit are the markets in front of the town hall, where Christmas motifs are projected onto the building’s façade.
Linz
Linz offers several Christmas markets that blend the modern urban atmosphere with elements of Austrian tradition. The main Linz Christmas market takes place at Hauptplatz, where you’ll find a rich selection of handcrafted goods, Christmas ornaments, and typical Austrian delicacies. Another interesting market is at Volksgarten, which is more family-oriented – complete with a Christmas train, children’s attractions, and craft workshops for the little ones.
Wolfgangsee
Advent at Wolfgangsee is one of the most magical Christmas experiences in Austria. The Christmas markets are spread around the lake in the villages of St. Wolfgang, St. Gilgen, and Strobl. Each village has its own unique atmosphere – St. Wolfgang is famous for its giant illuminated lantern ornament floating on the lake, St. Gilgen captivates with its baroque decorations, and Strobl offers a nativity scene with live animals.
What to Eat at Austrian Christmas Markets
Austrian Christmas markets are renowned for their culinary delights. Make sure you try:
- Glühwein and punch – warming mulled wine is a must at every market,
- Lebkuchen and Stollen – traditional Christmas baked goods,
- Roasted chestnuts and Kartoffelpuffer (potato pancakes),
- Sausages – Austrian markets offer a wide selection of local cured meats and bratwurst.
Frequently Asked Questions
When do Christmas markets in Austria start?
The biggest markets usually open in mid-November and run until Christmas Eve. Some, like the market in Salzburg, continue into January.
How to get to Christmas markets in Austria?
From the UK, you can fly into Vienna, Salzburg, or Innsbruck with airlines like easyJet, Ryanair, or British Airways. Once in Austria, trains and buses are the ideal way to get around, taking you right to the city centres. If you’re driving, be sure to book parking in advance.
Are Austrian Christmas markets family-friendly?
Yes, many markets offer activities for children, such as craft workshops, carousels, and live nativity scenes.
Tips and Tricks for Your Vacation
Don’t Overpay for Flights
Search for flights on Kayak. It’s our favorite search engine because it scans the websites of all airlines and always finds the cheapest connection.
Book Your Accommodation Smartly
The best experiences we’ve had when looking for accommodation (from Alaska to Morocco) are with Booking.com, where hotels, apartments, and entire houses are usually the cheapest and most widely available.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Good travel insurance will protect you against illness, accidents, theft, or flight cancellations. We’ve had a few hospital visits abroad, so we know how important it is to have proper insurance arranged.
Where we insure ourselves: SafetyWing (best for everyone) and TrueTraveller (for extra-long trips).
Why don’t we recommend any Czech insurance company? Because they have too many restrictions. They set limits on the number of days abroad, travel insurance via a credit card often requires you to pay medical expenses only with that card, and they frequently limit the number of returns to the Czech Republic.
Find the Best Experiences
Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace where you can book guided walks, trips, skip-the-line tickets, tours, and much more. We always find some extra fun there!
