If you’ve never visited a Christmas market in Europe, you might wonder what all the fuss is about. One friend said to me: “Why would I cross the ocean to buy tree ornaments?”
“It’s much more than that,” I replied, based on my own memorable experience at holiday markets in Europe. “It’s a magical vibe.”
But instead of expecting my friend to believe me, TravelPulse Canada went straight to the source – Norbert Kettner, CEO, and his team at the Vienna Tourist Board. We challenged them to make a compelling case for a visit to Vienna during the festive season – one that might even change the opinion of my Grinchy friend.
Christmas Village at Belvedere Palace. © WienTourismus/Christian Stemper (Photo Credit: Vienna Tourist Board)
TravelPulse Canada: Vienna has had some form of December Market or “Krippenmarkt” for more than 700 years. You must be pretty good at it by now. Could you paint us a word picture of what it feels like to be there in the festive season?
Vienna Tourist Board: Stepping into Vienna during the festive season feels like entering a winter wonderland fairytale, steeped in tradition and charm. The Advent season is invariably a very atmospheric time to visit Vienna. The historic city centre and shopping streets are decorated with festive lights and bathe the city in a Christmassy ambience -- the stunning architecture and the joyful atmosphere make it a truly enchanting experience.
Ice World at Christmas Market, Rathausplatz. © WienTourismus/Christian Stemper (Photo Credit: Vienna Tourist Board)
TravelPulse Canada: You don’t have one, two or three Christmas markets in Vienna, you have twenty! How are they different and are there any ‘can’t-miss’ markets?
Vienna Tourist Board: From mid-November onwards, Vienna’s most beautiful squares, streets and parks transform themselves into magical Christmas markets. Each has its own unmistakable atmosphere, with culinary delights ranging from punch to roasted chestnuts, plus arts and crafts activities for children to enjoy.
The Vienna Christmas Market in front of City Hall (Rathaus) is a must-visit, with its stunning backdrop of the Neo-Gothic city hall building. Schönbrunn Palace Christmas Market offers a royal experience amidst the imperial architecture. For a nostalgic vibe, the Spittelberg Christmas Market in the narrow, picturesque lanes of the Spittelberg quarter is perfect.
The Adventmarkt beim Gartenpalais Liechtenstein (advent market in the gardens of the Palais Liechtenstein) will take place for the fourth time this year and remains an insider’s tip for all those who enjoy the finer things in life. A less traditional, but all the more modern experience is offered by the MQ Wintergarten in the inner courtyard of the MuseumsQuartier, which is designed as a winter wonderland with spectacular art and light effects, open beer gardens, and curling rinks.
Christmas Market, Rathausplatz. © WienTourismus/Christian Stemper (Photo Credit: Vienna Tourist Board)
TravelPulse Canada: Is there anything good to eat at a Viennese Christmas market? Something sweet maybe? Perhaps something warm to wash it down?
Vienna Tourist Board: Our Christmas markets are a dream come true for food lovers. Must-try traditional Viennese treats include Kaiserschmarrn (fluffy shredded pancakes) and Maroni (roasted chestnuts) as well as Lebkuchen (gingerbread cookies) or Christmas cookies. Particularly popular and only served in Vienna during Advent and over the Christmas holidays, are Vanilla Kipferl - small, crescent-shaped Vanilla cookies.
To warm the stomach and the soul, nothing beats the comforting warmth of Gluhwein (mulled wine) or a cup of Punsch (punch) – These are quintessential to enjoy while strolling through the markets.
On our website you can find a recipe for a very special sweet, a “Mulled Wine Guglhupf” – bringing together the most iconic drink of the season and one of the most iconic cakes of Vienna.
TravelPulse Canada: What other Viennese treasures do you encourage Christmas market visitors to see during their visit?
Vienna Tourist Board: Apart from the enchanting Christmas markets, Vienna is home to a wealth of treasures waiting for visitors to explore. Among the bucket list items are the Hofburg Imperial Palace and the famous Viennese coffeehouses, where time stands still while you enjoy delicious cakes – but also classics of Viennese cuisine such as Viennese Schnitzel or Tafelspitz.
Take a leisurely walk through the historic Stadtpark(City Park) and admire the famous Johann Strauss II monument. Art enthusiasts would be remiss to not pay a visit to the Kunsthistorisches Museum (Museum of Art History) and the Belvedere Palace, where art-lovers and curious minds can gaze upon an impressive collection of Austrian art. Lastly, a ride on the Vienna Giant Ferris Wheel offers stunning, panoramic views of the city, providing a picture-perfect ending to your Viennese adventure.
Christmas Market, Rathausplatz. © WienTourismus/Paul Bauer (Photo Credit: Vienna Tourist Board)
TravelPulse Canada: What are the best options for people who want to travel to Vienna’s Christmas markets?
Vienna Tourist Board: Travelling to Vienna’s Christmas markets is a delightful experience and a variety of services and travel options can make your time in Vienna. Direct flights from Toronto and Montreal take you to the European metropolis conveniently.
Once in town the Vienna City Card gives you not only access to the city’s efficient public transport system, including a fast train from the airport to the centre (CAT), but also the freedom to enjoy the tourist attractions and make use of the benefits of the card at the same time. Whether you go sightseeing and visit museums, take part in a guided city walk, buy souvenirs from Vienna for your loved ones at home, take a break to enjoy a coffee with cakes and pastries or get to know the world capital of music live in the evening.
Ideally you combine the Vienna City Card with ivie, the digital city guide (free of charge for iOS and Android) -- an app we are very proud of as it really casts familiar sights in a new light, provides secret tips, and has a whole bunch of curious stories and quirky anecdotes in store. Themed city walks and handy information for everyday urban life are also part of the digital city guide and travel guide.
And don’t forget to dress warmly – the markets are outdoors, and Vienna’s winter can be chilly, but the warmth of the holiday season will undoubtedly make your visit unforgettable.
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