Austria during Advent is a feast for all the senses. The aroma of roasted almonds, glowing old-town lanes, festive music, and warming punch make the run-up to Christmas something truly special and create a wonderful atmosphere. Four destinations stand out in particular: Vienna, Salzburg, and Innsbruck. If you’re looking for Christmas magic a little off the beaten path, the Wolfgangsee is a charming insider tip.
To make your journey as stress-free as your market visit, don’t forget the digital vignette in your travel bag. It is required for all motorways and expressways in Austria and can be conveniently purchased online (valid immediately or from your chosen date). If your route takes you through the Alps, additional special toll routes such as the Brenner or the Tauern Motorway may also apply.
The Christkindlmarkt on Rathausplatz is Vienna’s showpiece during Advent. Countless stalls offer handicrafts, Christmas decorations, and culinary classics. Especially impressive are the large Christmas tree in front of City Hall and the atmospheric lighting in Rathauspark. An ice skating trail winds right through the grounds and makes the market exciting for families, too. If you’re visiting with children, be sure to stop by the Christkind post office. Wish lists can be posted directly here.
Culinary highlights include classics such as roast chestnuts (Maroni), raclette bread, sausages, and sweet Kiachl with lingonberry jam. Also typical for Vienna is the Viennese punch in many variations, ranging from the classic with rum to fruity berry versions or alcohol-free options for kids.
A little calmer, but no less impressive, is the Christmas market in front of Schönbrunn Palace. Against the Baroque backdrop, you’ll find artisanal crafts, concerts, and delicacies. The atmosphere here is somewhat more refined than at Rathausplatz. In addition to hot chestnuts and gingerbread, try the apple–cinnamon crêpes (Palatschinken). A treat that’s unforgettable in the evening hours with a view of the festively illuminated palace façade.
By car, you can take the A1/A2/A4/A22 toward the center. It’s best to park at a Park & Ride facility (e.g., Erdberg, Spittelau). From there, public transport will take you into the city center with ease. Use the subway (e.g., U3 to Herrengasse or U2 to Schottentor) or trams to Burgtheater/Rathaus.
The Salzburg Christkindlmarkt on Dom- und Residenzplatz is among the most traditional Advent markets in the world. Over 100 stalls, festive music, and the famous tower brass performances create an incomparable atmosphere. Particularly worth seeing are the nativity scene exhibitions showcasing regional craftsmanship, as well as the solemn Advent concerts in the Old Town’s churches.
Culinary musts include mini versions of Salzburger Nockerl, yeast dumplings (Germknödel) with vanilla sauce, and the popular Bauernkrapfen. To warm up, try mulled wine and punch variations featuring regional ingredients such as elderberry (Holler) or stone pine liqueur (Zirbenlikör).
For families, it’s also worth making a side trip to the Hellbrunn Advent Magic, where the palace façade becomes a giant Advent calendar and carriage rides are offered. Culinary classics await there as well, from hot potato pancakes to freshly roasted almonds.
The Innsbruck Old Town Market is located right by the Golden Roof and enchants with its atmospheric setting. Tyrolean crafts, mulled wine, and music blend with views of the Nordkette mountain range. So close to the Alps, the Advent mood feels truly unique. For children, there is a Fairy-Tale Lane with figures that invites wonder. Particularly atmospheric is the Christkindlmarkt on the Hungerburg, high above the city and easily reached by funicular. From there, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views over the city and the snow-covered mountains.
Typical Tyrolean fare includes Kiachl (pulled yeast-dough pastries), served either sweet with lingonberries or savory with sauerkraut. Kaspressknödel, Tyrolean Gröstl, and hearty soups are also classics you shouldn’t miss.
The three towns of St. Wolfgang, St. Gilgen, and Strobl together form the Wolfgangsee Advent. In the evenings, thousands of lights reflect on the water while small lakeside markets create a romantic mood. Particularly impressive is the boat crossing from town to town, offering a fresh perspective on the panorama of mountains and lights. In St. Gilgen, much centers on Baroque decoration; in Strobl, a nativity scene exhibition with live animals beckons; and St. Wolfgang enchants with its giant lantern in the lake, visible from afar.
Culinarily, fish takes center stage here: smoked trout and char from Lake Wolfgang are specialties. They pair wonderfully with sweet treats like gingerbread and homemade regional cookies.
Austria’s Christmas markets are most magical on weekdays around dusk—there’s less crowding and the lights truly shine. Park at a Park & Ride and continue into the center by public transport to save time and fees.
Dress in layers and wear slip-resistant shoes so your stroll stays comfortable even in the cold and on cobblestones. A little cash is handy for deposits and individual stalls, as card payments aren’t accepted everywhere. If you’re traveling with children, choose markets with a supporting program and check accessibility in advance if needed. That way you can fully enjoy the scent of punch, the music, and a relaxed wander through the sea of lights.
Whether you’re visiting Vienna’s magnificent markets, experiencing musical Salzburg, or preferring Innsbruck with its mountain backdrop—each of these places offers a unique Advent feeling. The Wolfgangsee complements this trio as a romantic insider tip. To ensure a smooth journey, it’s worth booking the digital vignette and any required special toll routes in advance. This saves time, avoids stress, and lets you focus on the Advent spirit from the very start.
Secure your digital vignette now and enjoy Austria’s most beautiful Christmas markets with ease. Our route planner shows you the right toll products in just a few clicks.
