Austria has to be one of my favourite countries in Europe. The food, the culture, the scenery… It all just melts together to create a European dreamland. In my experience, one of the best times to visit Austria is Christmas time and the best thing to do is visit the markets. I would say that the markets in Austria are some of the best around and you can find everything festive you could possibly want in them. So is your ultimate guide to the best Christmas Markets in Austria, 2024.
Best Christmas Markets in Austria
Vienna Christkindlmarkt (Rathausplatz)
The Vienna Christkindlmarkt is the most iconic and grand Austrian Christmas Market there is. Each time I visit it I am blown away by the plentiful stunning decorations and (this year) over 150 festive stalls. You can also go ice-skating or try out the giant merry-go-round, which reappears this year. As with all Christmas Markets, the best time to go has to be after dark. However, be prepared for it to be fairly busy here – it is the capital after all!
Open from: 15th of November to 26th of December.
If You Need More Inspiration: Check out my post about Vienna at Christmas Time, The Most Instragammable Spots in Vienna, Things to do in Vienna or 5 Reasons to Visit Vienna in December.
Salzburg Christkindlmarkt
Nestled around Salzburg Cathedral, this is one of the oldest Christmas Markets in Austria and exudes traditional charm with a selection of handcrafted gifts, and local treats like Mozartkugeln. In 2024, there are over 100 stands available and the market is centre stage for a range of different events. Each Tuesday, join the “Sing Along” choir open to the general public, or listen to the traditional wind music each Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday in the evening.
Open From: 21st of November to 1st of January.
Innsbruck Christmas Markets
Journey now to the Alps and in the stunning city of Innsbruck. This city perfectly marries the traditional Austrian culture with a lot of fun Christmas cheer. A must-see is the Old Town Market, which has to be the most traditional market in the city. Here you can find all of the classic snacks you could think off; Apfelstrüdel, roasted chestnuts, Punschkrapfen (small rum-soaked sponge cakes, covered in pink icing and filled with jam or nougat) and so much more.
My favourite market though has to be the panoramic Hungerburg market. To get here, you’ll need to take a cable car high above the city. The market itself is not as big as the main one, but gives you one incredible view over the city and neighbouring alps.
Open From: 15th of November to 23rd of December.
Graz Advent Markets
The rest of the best Christmas Markets in Austria are the lesser-known ones that you might not of heard of.
Take our next destination, Graz, for instance. In this southern city, you’ll find multiple markets spread throughout, with the Hauptplatz market offering the biggest selection. The market promises a range of handmade gifts and delicious sweets, all ready to be enjoyed by locals and tourists alike.
This is a perfect destination for people who want to avoid the crowds. If the Hauptplatz is too busy though, no worries. You could also try the quieter markets on Mariahilferplatz, or the Aufsteirern on Schlossberg Hill.
Open From: 22nd of November to 23rd of December.
Linz Christmas Markets
Linz is the third largest city in Austria and is known for its industrial heritage. Nowadays though it plays host to a creative scene which comes alive at the Christmas Markets. Known for its artistic flair, the Hauptplatz and Volksgarten markets offer handmade, unique gifts and the delicious Linzer Torte.
Hauptplatz is by far the more traditional of the two, and you’ll find all the usual things you can expect from an Austrian Christmas Market. The Volksgarten on the other hand is far more akin to a fairground, even including rides to go along with the food and drink.
Open From: 23rd of November to 23rd of December.
Klagenfurt Christmas Market
The town of Klagenfurt again holds its Christmas Market this year. The market is located in Neuer Platz and combines Carinthian traditions with a cosy, festive atmosphere. Klagenfurt is a town on the banks of Lake Wörthersee, and is a perfect choice for those travellers who want to avoid the crowds seen in Vienna or Salzburg, and is a cosy, more intimate feeling experience.
Open From: 16th of November to 24th of December.
Bregenz Christmas Market
Set by Lake Constance, Bregenz is one of those idyllic cities in Austria. Whilst it is a perfect destination for the summer, it also has an incredible market worthy of this list. This market offers the stunning views you could expect here, alongside unique crafts and gifts, and of course delicious food. Unlike the others, it also has that peaceful holiday vibe and, each weekend in 2024, you can hear live music from local choirs. In a unique twist, you can also go on board the Vorarlberg Lines Christmas Ship, which transports you to other local markets… So you get three for the price of one!
Open From: 17th of November to 23rd of December.
Final Thoughts | Best Christmas Markets in Austria
The best Christmas Markets in Austria have to be up there with the best of Europe. Whether you are after a Christmassy overload in the city, or a unique experience in Bregenz, give Austria a try this year for your holiday plans. I promise that you won’t regret it.
