Bregenzer Weihnacht - Oberstadt

Nestled in Bregenz's charming historic upper town (Oberstadt), the Bregenzer Weihnacht Oberstadt arts and crafts market offers an intimate and authentic alternative to the city's main Christmas market at Kornmarktplatz. Set against the backdrop of Bregenz's medieval old town, this Kunsthandwerksmarkt (arts and crafts market) runs across three select weekends in December, giving it an exclusive, unhurried character that draws visitors seeking genuine artisan work rather than mass-produced holiday goods. Local and regional artists take over the atmospheric lanes and squares of the Oberstadt to present their handcrafted creations, from ceramics and textiles to jewelry and decorative art. The weekend-only schedule — running Saturday and Sunday afternoons — creates a relaxed, festive pace perfectly suited to leisurely browsing. The historic stone architecture of Bregenz's upper town provides a naturally picturesque setting, with twinkling lights enhancing the medieval ambiance as dusk falls over Lake Constance. The broader Bregenzer Weihnacht celebration surrounds the Oberstadt market with additional festive attractions: the main market at Kornmarktplatz features food stalls serving hot punch, roasted almonds, and seasonal delicacies, while an artificial ice skating rink, a nostalgic carousel, and a Ferris wheel delight younger visitors. Choral performances and live concerts animate the market from Friday through Sunday. A special highlight is the Rathausleuchten, a stunning light animation projected onto the face of Bregenz's town hall. For a truly unique experience, the Vorarlberg Lines Christmas ship connects Bregenz with the Lindau harbor Christmas market on selected dates. Plan to combine a visit to the Oberstadt crafts market with the main Kornmarktplatz market for a full festive afternoon.