Amazing Germany & Austria Christmas Market Itinerary 7 Days

Welcome to my Christmas market itinerary series. If you’re looking to hit 2 countries with one trip and visit the most magical markets, you’re at the right spot.

I’ve visited all these Christmas markets on my own, and I’ve also been guiding my travel groups through these 2 countries as we visited the most beautiful Christmas markets. I’d love for you to have a great experience too, as you’re visiting them during the Christmas time.

So take this itinerary, visit 2 countries and their most charming markets on the way. And prepare your stomachs, we’re going to be eating many delicacies and drinking a lot of Glühwein.

Overview Of The Germany & Austria Christmas Market Itinerary 7 Days

Here is a quick summary of this 7-day itinerary, hitting 2 countries and 7 -9 Christmas markets:

DAY:	DESTINATION:
1.	Frankfurt
2.	Frankfurt – Rothenburg – Nuremberg
3.	Nuremberg – Salzburg
4.	Salzburg
5.	Salzburg – Salzwelten – St. Wolfgangsee
6.	St. Wolfgangsee – Gmunden – Vienna
7.	Vienna

Map Of The Itinerary

How To Get Around The Christmas Markets In Germany & Austria

I’ve designed this itinerary as a road trip, as you’ll get a lot of flexibility. It’s much easier to reach smaller towns like Rothenburg and St. Wolfgang by car.

So, I recommend renting a car in Frankfurt on day 2, and returning it once you arrive in Vienna.

I always rent a car with Discovercars, so that’s what I recommend. They’ll list many different companies and cars, so you have a wide range to choose from. Just make sure the rental company has a good rating (8.0 or higher). In Germany and Austria, I like to rent with Sixt or Europcar.

Go with full coverage (that’s what I always choose) for peace of mind on the road, and you won’t pay extra if something happens.

DAY 1. FRANKFURT

Welcome to Frankfurt, the financial hub of Germany. It has a major international airport, so you can fly in here from anywhere and start this itinerary.

Take some time to relax at your hotel, and head to the city to explore and enjoy your first Christmas markets.

🏠 Where To Stay In Frankfurt

Here are the hotels I suggest in Frankfurt:

➡ The Pure, Frankfurt
➡ Metropolitan Hotel by Flemings
➡ Hilton Garden Inn Frankfurt City Centre

Sightseeing In Frankfurt

If you’ve never been here before, you’re in for such a treat. Frankfurt might be known as Germany’s financial capital, but it’s so much more than skyscrapers and business suits.

Locals call it ‘Mainhattan‘ – a fun mix of the River Main and Manhattan – because of the skyline that you don’t usually find in other European cities. Oh, and it’s also home to the European Central Bank!

But what really makes Frankfurt special (and what totally stole my heart) is its charming Old Town. I love the colorful, half-timbered houses and the cozy streets that feel straight out of a storybook. And if you’re like me, you’ll love strolling along the River Main.

FUN FACT: Frankfurt is also the birthplace of Germany’s most famous writer, Johann Wolfgang von Goethe.

Here are my top recommendations for what to see and do while you’re here 👇

📍 Old Town (Altstadt) with Römerberg Square – cute, colorful houses & Town Hall from the 14th century
📍 Main Tower – take a lift up to this 200-meter-tall tower and enjoy stunning views of the skyline – it was one of my favorite experiences in the city
📍 River Main Promenade – walk alongside the river and enjoy the city lights in the evening
📍 Goethe House & Museum – his birthplace

Frankfurt’s Christmas Markets

Frankfurt’s Christmas markets are honestly some of my absolute favorites! Maybe it’s because I adore the Römerberg Square in the Old Town – it’s already so charming, but when it’s all lit up for Christmas, it turns into pure magic.

Start at the main square in the Old Town – that’s where the biggest and best market is. Don’t miss Bethmännchen, a sweet marzipan pastry with almond liqueur (so good!), and grab a Quetschemännchen, a cute little souvenir made from prunes and nuts.

And of course, try a glass of Frankfurt’s own Apfelwein (apple wine) – it’s a local must.

Afterward, take a stroll along the River Main to explore a few more markets with a lovely view. And if you’re in the mood for a bit of shopping, head to Hauptwache near Zeil – it’s perfect for finding handmade gifts and local goodies.

🍭 SPECIALTIES TO TRY: Bethmännchen (sweet marcipan pastry), Quetschemännchen (souvenir made from prunes and nuts), German sausages, Schmalzbrot (rye bread spread with lard and topped with onions), Flammkuchen (thin pizza-like dough with toppings), Kartoffelpuffer (potato pancakes) with sour cream, apple wine, baked almonds
📍 LOCATION: Römerberg (main square in the Old Town), Paulsplatz & Mainkai (alongside the river), Hauptwache (near the Zeil shopping street)
✨ FRANKFURT CHRISTMAS MARKETS DATES: 22nd of November until the 22nd of December 2025

DAY 2. FRANKFURT – ROTHENBURG – NUREMBERG

I hope you got the most out of your visit to Frankfurt. It’s time to move and keep enjoying some more Christmas magic.

As I mentioned before, I recommend making a road trip out of this itinerary. It will give you a lot of flexibility, especially today and on days 5 & 6, as we’re exploring the little towns.

So, in the morning, pick up your rental car in Frankfurt and set off to Rothenburg ob der Tauber.

🚇 Drive from Frankfurt to Rothenburg ob der Tauber takes 1 hour & 50 minutes (179 km/111 miles).

Sightseeing In Rothenburg Ob Der Tauber

Rothenburg is honestly one of the dreamiest places in Germany – and it feels Christmasy even in the middle of summer! It’s often called Germany’s romantic town, sitting right along the famous Romantic Road – a scenic route people love to cycle in summer to visit the most charming towns in Bavaria.

I’ve been lucky enough to visit Rothenburg a few times while guiding my groups, and it’s always one of their favorite stops in Germany. The whole town looks like it’s been lifted straight from a fairy tale – with its colorful houses, cobblestone streets, and cozy Christmas shops open year-round.

It’s a small place, so you only need about three hours to wander around, explore the main sights, and soak up the festive vibe.

Here’s what I recommend checking out while you’re there:

📍 Marktplatz – main square
📍 Plönlein – best photo spot
📍 Medieval City Walls – you can walk up and on the walls & enjoy the views
📍 Christmas Museum & Shop – don’t miss it, especially if you want to buy some souvenirs – this is the best spot on the entire trip
📍 Medieval Crime Museum

👉 READ ALSO: Epic German Christmas Market Itinerary: 7 Days By Train

Rothenburg’s Christmas Markets

You’re going to love it here – the Christmas spirit in Rothenburg is truly on another level. If you can, try to visit for the opening ceremony on the very first day the markets open (the date changes each year). It’s such a special experience!

The celebration starts with the Reiterle, a traditional figure who arrives on horseback to officially welcome the Christmas season.

There’s usually a brass band playing classic Christmas tunes, and honestly, the whole atmosphere just fills you with that cozy festive feeling.

The markets take place right on the Marktplatz (main square), and it’s one of the best spots to shop for local crafts and handmade gifts.

And whatever you do, don’t leave without trying a Schneeball (‘snowball’) – it’s a local specialty made from strips of dough twisted into a ball and topped with chocolate, sugar, or nuts.

🍭 SPECIALTIES TO TRY: Schneeball (Rothenburg’s snow ball), German sausages, Gluhwein
📍 LOCATION: Marktplatz (main square in the Old Town)
✨ ROTHENBURG CHRISTMAS MARKETS DATES: 21st of November until the 23rd of December 2025

After, keep driving to Nuremberg, which is our stop for the night.

🚇 Drive from Rothenburg ob der Tauber to Nuremberg takes 1 hour & 15 minutes (106 km/65 miles).

Nuremberg

Welcome to Nuremberg, one of Germany’s most beautiful medieval cities. I mean, just look at those half-timbered houses in the Old Town! Walking through the center feels like stepping back in time.

Back in the day, Nuremberg was a powerhouse in the Holy Roman Empire and even housed the empire’s crown jewels. Today, you can explore the Imperial Castle, which takes you back into the history.

But Nuremberg isn’t just about history – it’s also an innovation hub! Did you know the first German railway started here? And this city gave the world pocket watches, pencils, and the genius Renaissance artist Albrecht Dürer.

If you’re interested in more recent history, the Palace of Justice is worth a visit – it’s where the famous Nuremberg Trials took place after WWII.

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Sightseeing In Nuremberg

Here are the things I recommend you explore, except Christmas markets:

📍 Imperial Castle (Kaiserburg)
📍 City Walls & Towers – walk on the 4-km-long walks and enjoy the city views
📍 Handwerkerhof (Craftsmen’s Courtyard) – beautiful medieval market
📍 Old Town (Altstadt) & Pegnitz River – stroll through and see the stunning half-timbered houses
📍 Albrecht Dürer House – visit his home and admire his artwork
📍 Memorium Nürnberger Prozesse – see the room where the Nuremberg Trials took place
📍 Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds – a bit further away from the center, but worth the visit – you’ll get an audio guide and learn so much about Nazi Germany and WWII

Nuremberg’s Christmas Markets

Nuremberg’s Christmas market is one of the most famous in Germany, and with a history dating back to the 1500s, it’s almost as old as the ones in Dresden! If you’re there for the opening ceremony, don’t miss the Christkind, who delivers a festive prologue from the balcony of the Frauenkirche Church.

The market itself is a feast for the eyes: think wooden stalls with charming red-and-white striped roofs, about 180 of them, all packed with food, drinks, and local handicrafts.

A must-try is the Feuerzangenbowle – a mulled wine cocktail set on fire. I honestly love it even more than regular Glühwein. It’s cozy, festive, and just perfect for warming up while exploring the market.

And the star of the show? Nuremberg Lebkuchen (gingerbread). Seriously – you might never have had gingerbread this soft, juicy, and flavorful. Each stall has its own twist, so take your time strolling through the main square to find your favorite. There’s a vegan version too!

🍭 SPECIALTIES TO TRY: Nürnberger Lebkuchen (gingerbread), Nürnberger Rostbratwurst (3 small German sausages served in a roll), Feuerzangenbowle, Gebrannte Mandeln (roasted almonds)
📍 LOCATION: As you walk from the train station through the main street, you’ll see many markets, until you come to the main square – Hauptmarkt (main market), Handwerkerhof Nuremberg (handicrafts)
✨ NUREMBERG CHRISTMAS MARKETS DATES: 28th of November until the 24th of December 2025

🏠 Where To Stay In Nuremberg

Here is where I suggest staying in Nuremberg:

➡ The Cloud One Nürnberg
➡ Leonardo Royal Hotel Nürnberg
➡ Novotel Nürnberg Centre Ville

DAY 3. NUREMBERG – SALZBURG

Good morning to Nuremberg. How did you find the Christmas markets here?
We’ll be crossing into a new country today – Austria. But before we do, you can make a short stop in Regensburg to visit other great markets on the way.

So if you like, first make it to Regensburg, enjoy its markets for lunch, and then keep driving towards Salzburg.

🚇 Drive from Nuremberg to Regensburg takes 1 hour & 15 minutes (113 km/70 miles).

After, start driving towards Salzburg. Before we reach the city and check into your hotel, I recommend stopping at the Hellbrunner Christmas market. It’s a unique one – you’ll love it, I promise.

🚇 Drive from Regensburg to Hellbrunn Palace takes 2 hour & 40 minutes (270 km/167 miles).

Hellbrunner Christmas Markets

The Hellbrunn Palace dates back to the 17th century and was built by the local Archbishop Markus Sittikus – who was quite the character!

He added all sorts of playful touches around the palace, including the famous Trick Fountains (Wasserspiele). You can only see the fountains in action during the summer, but the palace is still magical in winter.

During the colder months, the palace grounds host a beautiful Christmas market filled with artisan stalls, local decorations, and charming souvenirs – it’s a perfect stop if you’re looking for something unique to take home.

There are a few food stalls too, but honestly, I’d save your appetite for Salzburg, which has a bigger variety.

NOTE: There’s a small entrance fee of 7 EUR to get into the market.

🍭 SPECIALTIES TO TRY: Käsespätzle (cheese dumplings), Kaiserschmarrn, Bratwürst with sauerkraut (sausages in a roll), roasted chestnuts, Glühwein, Lebkuchen (gingerbread), Punch and Glühwein, great for local artisan products and handicrafts
📍 LOCATION: spread around the palace
✨ ST. WOLFGANG’S CHRISTMAS MARKETS DATES: 20th of November until the 24th of December 2025 – closed on Mondays

🏠 Where To Stay In Salzburg

Whenever you’re ready, drive to Salzburg. Settle in, relax for a while, and then head to the Old Town to explore:

🚇 Drive from Hellbrunn Palace to Salzburg takes 15 minutes (5 km/3 miles).

These are the hotels I recommend in Salzburg:

➡ Boutique Hotel Am Dom
➡ Small Luxury Hotel Goldgasse
➡ Hotel Sacher

Salzburg’s Christmas Markets

Salzburg honestly has my favorite Christmas markets – seriously, there’s just something so magical about the lights, the beautiful surrounding buildings, and the cozy festive vibe.

The main markets are at Residenzplatz in the Old Town, right next to the cathedral, making it easy to soak in both history and Christmas cheer at the same time.

Note: If your schedule is flexible, try to be in Salzburg on 6th December to catch the wild Austrian tradition of Krampus. It’s totally insane, a little spooky, and absolutely unforgettable – you have to see it to believe it, lol!

🍭 SPECIALTIES TO TRY: Brezel (Big Pretzel – sweet or sauer), fried dough with sauerkraut called ‘Kiachl’, Bratwürst, Kaiserschmarrn (traditional shredded pancakes), Mulled Wine, Hot Chocolate
📍 LOCATION: Residence Square & In Front Of The Mirabell Palace
✨ SALZBURG CHRISTMAS MARKETS DATES: 20th of November 2025 and finish on the 1st of January 2026

DAY 4. SALZBURG

Today is all about discovering the magic of this city! I’ve put together a 3-day Salzburg itinerary that’s like a self-guided walking tour – you can follow it at your own pace and make the most of your time in this beautiful city.

Salzburg is like my second home – I spent 3 amazing years living here during university, and I absolutely fell in love with the city. From the cobblestone streets to the stunning baroque buildings, there’s just something about Salzburg that stays with you.

Here’s a quick summary of the main sights I recommend checking out while you’re here:

📍 Fortress Hohensalzburg
📍 Mönchsberg Hill & Medieval Walls
📍 Sky Space & Mönchsberg Lift
📍 Salzburger Festspielhaus
📍 Salzburg Cathedral
📍 Goldgasse
📍 Fürst Confectionery – try the famous Mozart Pralines
📍 Mozart’s Birthplace
📍 Mirabell Garden

DAY 5. SALZBURG – ST. WOLFGANGSEE

You’ve got a few options here. Either stay in Salzburg for 3 nights and return today for the last one, or follow the itinerary and stay tonight around St. Wolfgangsee (which I’d recommend).

But, just in case you prefer staying somewhere for longer and not having to fact, you’ve got the options.

Today, we have a very exciting day exploring the hidden gems of the Salzburg region and heading close to the Alps. Have fun!

🚇 Drive from Salzburg to Salzwelten Salzburg takes 30 minutes (20 km/12 miles).

Salzwelten Salzburg

In the morning, I recommend stopping at the Salzwelten near Salzburg. Let’s have some fun – we’re heading underground!

Welcome to the salt mines near Salzburg – one of the region’s coolest (and most historic) adventures. Salzburg actually got its name from salt (“Salz” in German), and the area became famous for its centuries-old salt mining and trade.

You’ll join a guided tour through the mine, where you’ll learn how it was built, discover fascinating stories from the miners’ world, and – the best part – slide down two giant wooden slides deep underground!

Oh, and here’s a fun surprise: while you’re down there, you’ll actually cross the border between Austria and Germany. How wild is that? 🇦🇹🇩🇪

After your tour, don’t miss the chance to explore the Celtic village, where you can see how people lived and mined salt over 2,500 years ago. It’s a perfect mix of history, fun, and a little adventure.

➡ Book tickets to the Salzwelten salt mines near Salzburg here.

Drive From Salt Mines To Salzkammergut

After you visit the salt mines, continue driving to the Salzkammergut region – St. Wolfgangsee Lake.

We’ve now made it to one of Austria’s most breathtaking areas, filled with crystal-clear lakes, rolling mountains, and even nearby glaciers

Our stop will be the cute town of St. Wolfgang. You can stay in town for the night. But, I highly recommend staying in nearby hotels to experience an authentic Austrian vibe and hospitality, away from the crowds.

So, visit the town, maybe take a mountain excursion, and then head to the hotel to relax.

🚇 Drive from Salzwelten Salzburg to St. Wolfgang town takes 1 hour (61 km/38 miles).

St. Wolfgang Im Salzkammergut

Legend has it that back in the year 976, Saint Wolfgang of Regensburg threw an axe from a mountain, declaring that wherever it landed, a church should be built. That very church became an important pilgrimage site, and you can still visit it today.

Take a stroll through the town’s tiny cobbled streets, admire the wooden alpine houses, and just soak up the calm atmosphere – it’s one of those places where time seems to slow down.

If you’re up for a little adventure, hop on the Schafbergbahn, the steepest cog railway in Austria. It takes you up to Schafberg Mountain, where you’ll be rewarded with incredible panoramic views of the entire Salzkammergut region and its sparkling lakes.

There’s even a restaurant at the top, so you can enjoy a traditional Austrian meal – maybe a Schnitzel or some Käsespätzle.

👉 READ ALSO: Ultimate Austria Christmas Market Itinerary

St. Wolfgang’s Christmas Markets

St. Wolfgang’s Christmas markets are also quite magical. They’ wind their way’re spread through the little streets of town, filled with twinkling lights, the scent of mulled wine, and plenty of local charm.

You’ll find beautiful decorations and handmade crafts – it’s another great spot for souvenir shopping on this whole itinerary. Don’t miss the food stalls either – my favorite was a baked potato piled high with toppings (simple but sooo good!).

Make sure to stop by the lake to see the floating “Peace Lantern”, glowing softly on the water.

🍭 SPECIALTIES TO TRY: Baked potato, Käsespätzle (cheese dumplings), local fish from the lake, Bratwürst with sauerkraut (sausages in a roll), roasted chestnuts, Glühwein, Lebkuchen (gingerbread), Punch and Glühwein, great for local artisan products and handicrafts
📍 LOCATION: spread throughout the town’s streets
✨ ST. WOLFGANG’S CHRISTMAS MARKETS DATES: 21st of November until the 21st of December 2025 – only open from Wednesday until Sunday

🏠 Where To Stay In Salzkammergut

Here are my favorite hotels in the region for you:

➡ Wolf & Schaf Apartments – in St. Wolfgang town
➡ TAUROA Landhaus zu Appesbach – in St. Wolfgang town
➡ Rosewood Schloss Fuschl – my favorite hotel in the area close to Fuschlsee lake

DAY 6. ST. WOLFGANGSEE – VIENNA

Good morning to Wolfgangsee. I hope you enjoyed an amazing stay in an Austrian hotel. It’s time to move to the capital city as our last destination.

But, before we arrive, I recommend making 2 stops on the way: Mondsee & Gmunden.

So, let’s hit the road again. You can either visit both towns on the way, pick one, or skip them and drive straight to Vienna.

First, drive from Wolfgangsee to Mondsee:

🚇 Drive from St. Wolfgang town to Mondsee takes about 30 minutes (30 km/18 miles).

Mondsee

For all my fellow Sound of Music fans – this one’s for you! Welcome to the charming town of Mondsee, where Maria and Captain Georg von Trapp tied the knot in the beautiful Basilica of St. Michael.

Even beyond its Hollywood fame, Mondsee is such a lovely place to wander. The streets are full of colorful houses, cozy cafés, and that laid-back Austrian charm.

And if you’re into local food (who isn’t?), you have to try the town’s specialty: Mondseer cheese, a delicious semi-hard cheese.

The Christmas markets here are open only on weekends, starting from the last weekend in November. But don’t worry if you miss them – Mondsee is still worth a visit for a few relaxed hours, especially with the beautiful lake views right next to town.

🚇 Drive from Mondsee to Gmunden takes about 40 minutes (30 km/18 miles).

Gmunden

Welcome to Gmunden – a little lakeside gem on the shores of Lake Traunsee.
This is actually Austria’s deepest lake, reaching an impressive 191 meters, and it gives the whole town such a peaceful, scenic vibe.

Gmunden dates all the way back to the 12th century, and today it’s lovingly known as Austria’s ceramic capital. The locals have been perfecting the craft for generations, and you’ll find plenty of beautiful handmade ceramics in the little shops here.

Don’t miss Schloss Ort, a fairytale castle perched on a tiny island and linked to the mainland by a wooden bridge – it’s very beautiful.

As with Mondsee, the Christmas markets here open on weekends only (Friday to Sunday), starting from the last weekend in November. But even if you miss them, it’s still worth stopping.

🚇 Drive from Gmunden to Vienna takes about 2 hours & 45 minutes (235 km/146 miles).

Vienna

Welcome to Vienna – the Austrian capital and a charming city full of music, tasty flavors, and delicious coffee with sweet treats.

In the afternoon, check into your hotel and relax for a while. Then head to the center to enjoy its Christmas markets.

🏠 Where To Stay In Vienna

These are the hotels I recommend in Vienna for your stay:

➡ Hotel Palais Mailberger Hof
➡ Steigenberger Hotel Herrenhof
➡ Hotel Imperial

Vienna’s Christmas Markets

Vienna’s markets are some of the most popular in Europe, so if big crowds aren’t your thing, don’t worry – I’ll share a few hidden gems and cozier spots later in this itinerary, too.

Let’s start with the most famous one: the Christkindlmarkt at Rathausplatz, right in front of Vienna’s City Hall. It’s pure Christmas magic – rows of wooden stalls selling everything from sweet pastries to hearty Austrian snacks, plus beautiful ornaments and decorations. There’s even an ice-skating rink.

Not far away, you’ll find another lovely market at Maria-Theresien-Platz (just note they close around 9:30 PM, so go earlier).

You can also wander to Stephansplatz, around the famous St. Stephen’s Cathedral. It’s worth a look, especially when the cathedral is lit up at night – the atmosphere is beautiful. But personally, it’s not my favorite market. It’s usually quite crowded and has fewer food options.

For something extra special, make your way to Schönbrunn Palace, the former summer residence of the Habsburgs. The setting is stunning, and for me, this is where Vienna feels the most Christmasy. I’m sure you’ll love it here, too.

And if you’re a fan of arts, crafts, and handmade decorations, don’t miss the market at Karlsplatz – it’s full of creativity and has a more local, artsy vibe.

🍭 SPECIALTIES TO TRY: Schnitzel with fries and mayo, Käsespätzle (cheese dumplings), Bratwürst with sauerkraut (sausages in a roll), roasted chestnuts, Glühwein, apple strudel, Lebkuchen (gingerbread)
📍 LOCATION: Rathausplatz (at the City Hall), Maria-Theresien-Platz, Stephansplatz (not so many food options), Schönbrunn (the most Christmasy), Karlsplatz (artsy markets)
✨ VIENNA CHRISTMAS MARKETS DATES: 14th of November until the 26th of December 2025

DAY 7. VIENNA

Get ready for a full day of exploring Vienna!

Vienna was once the heart of the Habsburg Empire, a dynasty that ruled much of Europe from the 13th century until the end of World War I. The city is filled with history, elegance, and grand palaces . And today, you’ll get to see some of the very best of it.

Start with the Hofburg Palace, the Habsburgs’ former winter residence. Inside, you can visit the Sisi Apartments and learn more about Empress Elisabeth – or “Sisi” – whose fascinating life and rebellious spirit made her one of Europe’s most intriguing royals.

Next, head to Schönbrunn Palace, their summer residence. You can go inside to explore the ornate rooms and imperial halls. And also, don’t miss the gardens.

While you’re at Schönbrunn, don’t miss the Apple Strudel Show at the original bakery where this famous dessert was first made. You’ll get to watch the pastry masters in action – and, of course, taste a warm slice of freshly baked Apfelstrudel.

And beyond the palaces, there’s still so much more to see in Vienna. Here are a few of my top recommendations:

📍 St. Stephen’s Cathedral
📍 Vienna State Opera
📍 Belvedere Palace – beautiful art gallery – see the famous painting ‘The Kiss’ from Gustav Klimt
📍 Albertina Museum – main art gallery
📍 MuseumsQuartier – see the Natural History Museum
📍 Karlskirche – beautiful Baroque church
📍 Hundertwasserhaus – beautiful colorful houses and area, great for relaxing and having coffeee
📍 Prater Park – amusement park full of roller coasters
Naschmarkt – Vienna’s open-air market with different foods (delicious falafel)

Vienna’s Coffee Culture & Historic Coffee Houses

As a huge coffee lover, Vienna is my absolute dream.

There’s just something special about the city’s coffee culture; it’s elegant, a little nostalgic, and the perfect excuse to slow down for an afternoon sweet treat.

Vienna is full of beautiful, historic coffee houses and confectioneries, many of which have been around for centuries. They’re like little pieces of history. Imagine sitting in the same rooms once visited by great thinkers like Sigmund Freud, Vladimir Lenin, and even Josef Stalin. Isn’t that awesome?

So definitely take some time to soak up the atmosphere: find a cozy corner and enjoy a delicious coffee or tea with a slice of cake.

Here are a few of my favorite cafés you shouldn’t miss:

☕ Cafe Central
☕ Cafe Demel
☕ Gerstner K. u. K. Hofzuckerbäcker
☕ Conditorei Sluka

When it comes to ordering, you’ve got to try a few true Viennese classics. Start with a Melange (Austria’s version of a cappuccino) or a Verlängerter, which is like a smooth Austrian-style Americano.

Try the famous Sachertorte, a rich chocolate cake, a slice of Apfelstrudel (apple strudel) or Topfenstrudel (filled with sweet cottage cheese).

Taste a Kaiserschmarrn (a shredded Austrian pancake – the one at Café Demel is legendary), or sample a slice of Esterházy Torte, Dobostorte, or Mozart Torte.

Vienna’s Classical Concert

No trip to Vienna is complete without a touch of classical music. After all, Austria gave the world some of its greatest composers – Mozart, Johann Strauss, and Joseph Haydn.

Experiencing a classical concert in Vienna is honestly something special. The beautiful halls, the music, the atmosphere… it’s pure magic.

So, on one of your evenings here, I highly recommend attending a classical concert – or, if you want to go all in, treat yourself to a performance at the Vienna State Opera. It’s an unforgettable experience that perfectly captures the soul of the city.

Check out some of these concerts:

➡ Check out this Vivaldi The Four Seasons Concert in the Golden Hall.

➡ See this Vivaldi’s Four Seasons Concert in Karlskirche.

Practical Tips For Visiting The Christmas Markets In Germany & Austria

I also have some practical tips for you if you’re visiting the markets, so you don’t miss any highlights. Get prepared with me and these tips:

Have Cash With You

It’s always a good idea to keep a little cash on hand. Most markets and stalls take cards these days, but there are still a few cash-only spots.

You don’t want to miss out on a cute souvenir, a tasty treat, or even a quick trip to the local bathroom just because you’re card-less!

Collecting Christmas Mugs

Did you know you can take the Christmas mugs home with you? When you order Glühwein or any hot drink at the markets, it’s served in a traditional festive mug.

Every market has its own unique mug, and honestly, they’re my favorite thing about visiting Christmas markets, lol.

There’s usually a small refundable fee (around 5 euros) on top of your drink. You can return the mug to get your money back, or just keep it as a souvenir. Some stalls even let you swap it later for a clean one if you want.

I’ve collected mugs from every market I’ve visited, and I absolutely love my growing collection. They’re so much fun and make the sweetest little gifts to bring home too. Check out my collection in the photo below!

Weather & Temperatures

Winter in this region is usually chilly but magical, so make sure to pack a warm jacket, gloves, and comfy shoes for wandering around the markets. You might get a bit of rain here and there, but don’t worry. It never takes away from the festive atmosphere.

Temperatures typically hover between 5°C (41°F) and 0°C (32°F), though you might catch a few milder days around 8–10°C (46–50°F). Evenings, however, can dip back down to freezing. But trust me, one cup of Glühwein and you’ll be feeling warm and happy in no time.

BONUS: European Christmas Market Itinerary

If you’re dreaming of visiting the most magical Christmas markets across Europe – all in one trip – I’ve got you covered! I’ve put together a European Christmas market itinerary that takes you through 5 countries and some of the most charming markets in Hungary, the Czech Republic, Austria, Germany, and Belgium.

Click the image below to explore the itinerary and make the most of Europe’s festive season!

FAQs

I’ve also answered some of the most frequently asked questions about the Christmas markets in Germany and Austria:

Where Is The Best Christmas Market In Germany Or Austria?

The best Christmas market is in Salzburg, Austria. But we can’t generalize because each Christmas market is different. They originated in Germany, and some of the German Christmas markets are very magical, like Dresden, Nuremberg, and Regensburg.

But I think the most beautiful and intimate Christmas market is in Austria – Salzburg.

Which Country Has The Best Christmas Markets In Europe?

Germany has overall the best Christmas markets in Europe. That’s where they originated—the first-ever Christmas market was held in Dresden in 1434. So Germany has the greatest markets.

But there are also other amazing markets like Salzburg (Austria) and Tallinn (Estonia).

What Is The Most Christmassy Country In Europe?

Finland is the most Christmassy country in Europe. As you might know, Rovaniemi is Santa Claus’s hometown – it’s a magical, Christmasy place full of cute houses, decorations, and snow.

Helsinki, Finland’s capital, also hosts beautiful, cozy Christmas markets that are a bit different from those in the rest of Europe.

WRAP-UP: Germany & Austria Christmas Market Itinerary 7 Days

This is my Germany-Austria Christmas market itinerary for you. You’ll really hit the best spots with it. I loved visiting all these Christmas markets, and my travel group did, too. So I hope it will give you a lot of inspiration and you’ll have a great time.

The atmosphere at this time of the year in Europe is truly magical – so enjoy it as much as you can and try the local specialties. Don’t forget to collect the mugs, lol.

If you like this itinerary and want a customized travel itinerary based on your preferences, contact me at info(at)voicesoftravel.com. I’ll gladly help you plan.

Happy Christmas Travels!