Really? Vienna for Christmas? Yes, I know it’s one of “the” places, but it is really worth the label.
Who could resist the lure of skiing, partying on the pistes, shopping and enjoying the experience of the wonderful Advent markets. Toboggan runs, ice skating, night-time sleigh rides…for down under folk like us currently getting ready to celebrate the festive season in the sunshine, this is a place for white Christmas memories.
Book your flights and accommodation straight away, then immerse yourself in Placido Domingo, Sarah Brighman, Helmutt Lotti and Riccardo Cocciante performing in A Gala Christmas in Vienna (DVD/CD 1998). The songs are traditional European and American, accompanied by the Vienna Symphony. Steven Mercurio is the conductor.
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| Karl Wenzel early 19th century painting of Vienna markets. They've changed somewhat! |
The Christmas Markets in Vienna date back to 1298 or whereabouts, when the ruling monarch Albrecht I granted Vienna's citizens the privilege of holding a "Krippenmarkt". Since then, the character and prevalence of these markets has changed considerably. From the middle of November over 20 official Advent Markets are open to tempt you with a vast array of seasonal gifts and mouth-watering treats.
As you would expect, to commemorate the opening each year, there’s a tree lighting ceremony in front of the markets.
I’ve highlighted just two of the amazing markets – one at the Maria Theresa Square between the Kunsthistorisches Museum and the Museum of Natural History, which is open till the 26th for Christmas and then reopens with a New Year market and the Christmas and New Year's Market at Schönbrunn Palace, where approximately 60 exhibitors present handicrafts and original gifts. These include hand-made Christmas decorations and nativity. The fragrance of freshly baked Vanillekipferl and hot punch fills the air and creates a wonderful atmosphere. This market, too, opens for Christmas and then again for New Year.
All of my research tells me that they are best visited at night when the trees are illuminated with red hearts and hot-air balloons but I’m sure they will be just as much fun during the day. Stephen says it's best - and fun - take the tram everywhere, except to the Schönbrunn Palace where you have to take a bus.
As you would expect, to commemorate the opening each year, there’s a tree lighting ceremony in front of the markets.
I’ve highlighted just two of the amazing markets – one at the Maria Theresa Square between the Kunsthistorisches Museum and the Museum of Natural History, which is open till the 26th for Christmas and then reopens with a New Year market and the Christmas and New Year's Market at Schönbrunn Palace, where approximately 60 exhibitors present handicrafts and original gifts. These include hand-made Christmas decorations and nativity. The fragrance of freshly baked Vanillekipferl and hot punch fills the air and creates a wonderful atmosphere. This market, too, opens for Christmas and then again for New Year.
All of my research tells me that they are best visited at night when the trees are illuminated with red hearts and hot-air balloons but I’m sure they will be just as much fun during the day. Stephen says it's best - and fun - take the tram everywhere, except to the Schönbrunn Palace where you have to take a bus.
Stay on into January, for all the New Year celebrations, and the stunning winter balls. More than 300 balls are thrown during the season, including the Opera Ball and the Bonbon Ball which is stages as a reminder that this city was the diplomatic and entertainment centre of the world after the defeat of Napoleon. Apparently Paris Hilton was bored at the Opera Ball, but then...
Choirs sing in market stalls and if you wake up early enough on Sundays walk through quiet streets to hear the Vienna Boys Choir at the Hofburg Chapel.
Or maybe just take a walk in the Vienna woods.
There are wonderful cafes to pop into perfect for warming up after a brisk walk. This is Demels.
NB.Thanks to the web for the images.
Fodor’s travel is always a great source of inspiration and information. Here’s a trip report you may find helpful from a family in the US : Trip Report - Vienna
There are some wonderful Christmas concerts on too.
How to get there:
From anywhere Emirates will get you there.
British Airways flies four times daily from London Heathrow to Vienna.
From the US, there are plenty of flights on all the airlines, so choose your favourite. Generally you will have two stopovers, or maybe three, depending on the time/airline.
From Australia or New Zealand you could use Air New Zealand or Qantas or any of the code share partners.
From Asia, eDreams does Singapore/Vienna as does Lufthansa.
Where to stay:
Heaps and heaps of places. Try Booking.com, Hotels.com. Expedia, Trip Advisor…
You can book an Apartment or use AirBnB for owner managed homes (exceptionally good value, we have found).Or if you are going budget, stay at a backpackers or Hostels in Vienna.
however you travel there, and whereever you stay, this holiday will be one you remember. Don't forget your chargers and extra batteries for the camera.
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