Best Christmas Markets in Austria

Neuer Platz

The main Christmas market in Klagenfurt's Renaissance old town, held at Neuer Platz in front of the town hall by the iconic Lindwurm fountain. Features handicrafts, winter fashion, gift items, Christmas decorations, and regional gastronomy with hot drinks and local dishes. One of the largest Christmas markets in the Alpine-Adria region.

Linzer Hauptplatz

Linz's traditional Christmas market on the main square, surrounded by baroque townhouses. Features artisan crafts including handmade Christmas tree decorations, pottery, glassware, and jewelry, with a magnificently illuminated Christmas tree as the centerpiece. Operating since the area became a pedestrian zone in the late 1970s.

Domplatz and Residenzplatz

The historic Salzburg Christmas market celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2024. Located in the heart of Salzburg's UNESCO World Heritage Site, this traditional market with around 100 stands is one of the oldest and most beautiful Advent markets in the world. Features specially designed lighting that stretches above the market stands like romantic stars across the night sky.

Hauptplatz

The main Christmas market in Graz's principal city square, located in front of the City Hall. Features a huge decorated Christmas tree, lovely carousel, festive stalls offering crafts, sweets, mulled wine, and decorations. The market is known for its light projections on the stall roofs and special Sunday events for families and children.

Rathausplatz

Vienna's most famous and visited Christmas market, held in front of the imposing City Hall since the 19th century. Features over 150 stalls offering traditional crafts, Christmas decorations, and seasonal foods. The market includes a towering Christmas tree, a two-story carousel, and the iconic entrance archway with red bow and candles.

Hungerburg

A Christmas market with breathtaking panoramic views of Innsbruck, located 300 meters above the city at Hungerburg. Accessible via the Nordkettenbahnen funicular from the Old Town station. Offers a tranquil atmosphere with traditional market offerings including punch, snacks, and handcrafted Christmas decorations while enjoying spectacular mountain and city views.

Bergisel

An atmospheric Christmas market on Bergisel hill focusing on authenticity and tradition. Emphasizes regional Tyrolean products and craftsmanship, offering a genuine Christmas experience reminiscent of years past. Open only on weekends (Friday to Sunday), providing a welcome escape and opportunity to unwind in a reflective, traditional setting.

Lendhafen

A unique Advent market at Klagenfurt's Lendhafen harbor district, transforming into a magical winter backdrop during the Advent season. Features open fire bowls, street food, Glühwein, handicrafts, and a colorful musical program. The lights reflect beautifully in the Lendkanal, creating a festive atmosphere in this hip, art and culture-focused neighborhood.

Hellbrunn Palace Courtyard

A magical Christmas market at Hellbrunn Palace featuring a courtyard, torch-lined path, and oversized Advent calendar. The palace windows are transformed into a giant Advent calendar with each one lit and decorated. Features a fairy-tale forest with 10,000 red baubles, Christmas train, pony rides, petting zoo, and children's bakery.

Tummelplatz

An international Christmas market featuring exhibitors from four continents showcasing original gifts, wool products, winter textiles, Christmas decorations, and handicrafts. Complemented by regionally conscious gastronomy, offering a diverse global perspective on Christmas traditions.

Schönbrunn Palace

An imperial Christmas market set in the forecourt of UNESCO World Heritage Schönbrunn Palace, offering a stunning baroque backdrop. Features 90 stalls with traditional handicrafts, handmade Christmas decorations, an ice skating rink, curling rinks, Ferris wheel, carousel, and traditional handicrafts workshop for children. Known for its spacious layout and high-quality artisanal goods.

Linzer Domplatz

A quiet, quality-focused advent market at Linz's cathedral square against the impressive backdrop of the Mariendom. Features high-quality culinary delights, genuine handicrafts, and a unique atmosphere. Includes a light installation with snowflake magic and illuminated stained glass windows. Holds the Austrian quality seal for art and handicrafts since 2024.

Hohensalzburg Fortress Courtyard

An intimate Christmas market located high above Salzburg in the fortress courtyard, offering breathtaking views of the city. Features local arts and crafts, charming gifts, Christmas treats, and tarte flambée from a 500-year-old oven. Trumpeters perform under a giant Christmas tree decorated by local children.

Volksgarten

A family-friendly Christmas market especially popular with children, featuring rides, a life-size hand-painted nativity scene, and fairy tale huts with moving figures. Set in the park with illuminated trees in front of the festive music theater, offering craft demonstrations and musical performances.

Schlossberg

A unique Christmas market located on the Schlossberg hill in a former castle moat called Kasematten, which serves as an open-air stage in summer. The market combines traditional Styrian culture with festive atmosphere, offering delicious food, crafts, and mulled wine in an incomparable Christmas setting with views over the city.