Romantic lights, seasonal treats, festive carols, and snow-covered roofs and treetops as far as the eye can see: Christmas in Austria is a truly magical time, with locals and visitors alike flocking to the cities and small towns from mid-November to join in the celebrations leading up to Christmas Eve. The festive period has become one of the most popular times to visit Austria – and it’s easy to see why: After all, the traditional Christmas markets, selling everything from punch to chestnuts, traditional handicrafts, and unique local gifts, are famous around the world.
Austria’s charming markets date back to the 18th century and started out as day-time food and drinks markets, much like we still see them today. The festive lights were added in the 20th century, making the markets even more attractive – and romantic. Today, kids (and kids at heart) can not only browse through a huge variety of stalls but also mingle with angels or meet the “Christkind”, the traditional gift-bringer in Austria. Let us show you some classic destinations to experience Christmas the Austrian way – and a few insider tips only a local would know.
Every major Austrian town has at least one Christmas market and it goes without saying that Vienna has by far the most. Austria’s capital is home to more than 20 festive markets, with some of the biggest and most well-known ones right in front of attractions such as the town hall (including a giant Advent calendar on the building!), Schönbrunn Palace (combine it with a visit to Sisi’s palace) and Belvedere Palace. The Christmas markets in the Spittelberg artist district and in front of Karlskirche are long-term local favourites, while the Old Viennese Christmas Market at Freyung, right in the city centre, is where Vienna’s Christmas market tradition started in 1772.
Another great region for markets at the lake promenade is Austria’s southernmost province Carinthia. Head to Lake Wörthersee and check out all the stalls and festive lights in Pörtschach and the famous floating Advent wreath in Velden, then book yourself into a guided torchlit walk to experience even more Christmas magic.
|
|
|
Thoughts of the day - feel free to drop us a line at contact@oliveandlatte.com if you have any comments. Thank you. |
|
|
|
|
|
Copyright © *2017* All rights reserved. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Comments
Post a Comment