5 Must-Visit Austria Christmas Markets

Christmas is a magical time of the year, and Austria is a perfect destination to experience the festive atmosphere. The country is famous for its charming Christmas markets, which offer a unique blend of traditional food, drinks, and handmade crafts. If you're planning to visit Austria during the holiday season, here are 5 must-visit Austria Christmas markets that you shouldn't miss.

Austria's Christmas markets are a beloved tradition that dates back to the 13th century. The first Christmas market was held in Vienna in 1298, and since then, the tradition has spread throughout the country. Today, you can find Christmas markets in almost every major town and city in Austria, each offering its own unique character and charm.

1. Vienna Christmas Market (Weihnachtsmarkt)

The Vienna Christmas Market is one of the largest and most famous Christmas markets in Austria. Held in front of the City Hall (Rathaus), the market offers over 150 stalls selling traditional Austrian food, drinks, and handmade crafts. You can try traditional Austrian delicacies such as Glühwein (mulled wine), Lebkuchen (gingerbread), and Vanillekipferl (vanilla crescents).

What to Expect:

• Over 150 stalls selling traditional Austrian food, drinks, and handmade crafts
• Traditional Austrian delicacies such as Glühwein, Lebkuchen, and Vanillekipferl
• Beautifully decorated stalls and festive atmosphere
• Live music and entertainment

2. Salzburg Christmas Market (Salzburger Weihnachtsmarkt)

The Salzburg Christmas Market is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves Mozart and the Sound of Music. Held in the historic city center, the market offers a range of traditional Austrian food, drinks, and handmade crafts. You can try traditional Austrian delicacies such as Kaiserschmarrn (shredded pancake) and Mozartkugel (Mozart chocolate ball).

What to Expect:

• Traditional Austrian food, drinks, and handmade crafts
• Beautifully decorated stalls and festive atmosphere
• Live music and entertainment
• Mozart-themed stalls and products

3. Innsbruck Christmas Market (Innsbrucker Weihnachtsmarkt)

The Innsbruck Christmas Market is a charming market held in the historic city center. The market offers a range of traditional Austrian food, drinks, and handmade crafts, including traditional Tyrolean delicacies such as Kiachl (meat pie) and Zillertaler Krapfen (jam-filled doughnuts).

What to Expect:

• Traditional Austrian food, drinks, and handmade crafts
• Traditional Tyrolean delicacies such as Kiachl and Zillertaler Krapfen
• Beautifully decorated stalls and festive atmosphere
• Live music and entertainment

4. Hallstatt Christmas Market (Hallstätter Weihnachtsmarkt)

The Hallstatt Christmas Market is a small but charming market held in the picturesque village of Hallstatt. The market offers a range of traditional Austrian food, drinks, and handmade crafts, including traditional Austrian delicacies such as Apfelstrudel (apple strudel) and Gugelhupf ( Bundt cake).

What to Expect:

• Traditional Austrian food, drinks, and handmade crafts
• Traditional Austrian delicacies such as Apfelstrudel and Gugelhupf
• Beautifully decorated stalls and festive atmosphere
• Live music and entertainment

5. Graz Christmas Market (Grazer Weihnachtsmarkt)

The Graz Christmas Market is a large and lively market held in the historic city center. The market offers a range of traditional Austrian food, drinks, and handmade crafts, including traditional Styrian delicacies such as Käferbohnen (beetroot salad) and Paprikahendl (paprika chicken).

What to Expect:

• Traditional Austrian food, drinks, and handmade crafts
• Traditional Styrian delicacies such as Käferbohnen and Paprikahendl
• Beautifully decorated stalls and festive atmosphere
• Live music and entertainment

In conclusion, Austria's Christmas markets are a must-visit destination for anyone who loves the holiday season. With their traditional Austrian food, drinks, and handmade crafts, these markets offer a unique and festive atmosphere that will leave you feeling merry and bright.

We hope this article has inspired you to visit Austria's Christmas markets. Which market would you like to visit the most? Let us know in the comments below!