Are Christmas markets in Austria open after Christmas?

Yes, several Christmas markets in Austria remain open after Christmas, though many major ones close on December 23rd or 24th. Post-Christmas, some markets in Vienna and other cities, such as Salzburg (open until Jan 1) and Innsbruck (open until Jan 6), often transition into "New Year's markets" featuring food, drinks, and crafts.

Are Christmas markets open after Christmas in Vienna?

Before exploring the magic of Vienna's Christmas markets, here are a few helpful things to keep in mind. Most markets open from mid-November and run until Christmas Eve with some extending the festive spirit all the way to January.

Do any Christmas markets stay open after Christmas?

Yes, many Christmas markets stay open after Christmas, often until New Year's Eve or the first week of January, though some traditional ones close by December 23rd or 24th. Major cities like London, Edinburgh, Prague, and various French/German locations frequently run markets through the holiday period, sometimes rebranding as New Year's markets. It's essential to check specific market dates, as they vary widely. 

How long do Christmas markets last in Austria?

All the big locations traditionally stay open until at least December 23rd. Expect several markets to continue through the Christmas public holiday period as well. One or two may even stay open until late December or early January, often in the form of a New Year market.

What is the most Christmassy town in Austria?

St Wolfgang is famed as Austria's advent town – the most festive place in the whole country. And that's some boast. Alongside Germany, Austria has some of the most popular Christmas markets in the world and Salzburg and Innsbruck are thought to be the most spectacular.

16 Tips I Wish I Knew Before Visiting European Christmas Markets

Is it better to go to Salzburg or Vienna for Christmas?

However, despite the cold, Vienna with its Christmas lights and markets is magical in December. The best time to visit Salzburg is in late summer and autumn as this is when the crowds have tapered off and you can enjoy the beautiful gardens in comfortable temperatures.

What date are Vienna's Christmas markets in 2025?

Below are our top three picks for Christmas markets in Vienna this holiday season:

• Christkindlmarkt at Rathaus, November 16 – December 26, 2025. ...
• Old Viennese Christmas Market on Freyung, November 15 – December 23, 2025. ...
• Edelstoff Design Market Christmas Edition – December 6 and 7, 2025.

Is Innsbruck or Salzburg better for Christmas?

Innsbruck may not be as popular for Christmas markets as Salzburg or Vienna, but it's absolutely worth adding to your European Christmas market itinerary! Beautiful Christmas markets and festive light displays against a snowy mountain backdrop adds to the holiday magic.

Is Vienna open on 25th December?

25 and 25 are holidays, so most shops will be closed, but not museums and restaurants. Most shops, also supermarkets, will be closed on 25 and 26. Most Christmas markets close on 24 afternoon, but some turn into wintermarkets and are open until beginning of January.

How to dress for Christmas markets in Austria?

Snowy Market Outfit (Germany, Switzerland, Austria)

1. Thermal leggings.
2. Wool skirt or jeans.
3. Chunky knit sweater.
4. Wool trench coat.
5. Waterproof boots.
6. Touchscreen mittens.
7. Wool beanie.
8. Blanket scarf.

Are Christmas markets better in Germany or Austria?

Each market has it's own traditions, decorations, and food. Germany's markets tend to be more traditional while Austria's tend to be a bit more elaborate. Most markets end just before Christmas, but in towns such as Speyer, Germany they prolong the celebration.

What is the most Christmassy city in Europe?

Berlin, Germany. It's official – Berlin takes first prize as the most festive city to celebrate the holidays in Europe.

What do Germans do on the 25th and 26th of December?

On December 25th (First Christmas Day) and 26th (Second Christmas Day, Zweiter Weihnachtstag), Germans enjoy official public holidays focused on quiet family time, large festive meals with traditional foods like roast goose or carp, exchanging gifts (which often happens on Christmas Eve), and visiting relatives, with most shops remaining closed as the celebration continues after the main gift-giving on Christmas Eve (Heiligabend).
 

Are any Christmas markets open after Christmas?

Yes, many Christmas markets stay open after Christmas, often until New Year's Eve or the first week of January, though some traditional ones close by December 23rd or 24th. Major cities like London, Edinburgh, Prague, and various French/German locations frequently run markets through the holiday period, sometimes rebranding as New Year's markets. It's essential to check specific market dates, as they vary widely. 

Do I need cash for Vienna Christmas Markets?

Cash is king at Christmas Markets in Austria and Germany (though credit cards are accepted more and more so don't be too worried) #christmasmarket #merrychristmas #christmasinaustria #christmasingermany.

Are things open in Austria on Christmas Day?

What's open on December 25th and December 26th, Christmas Day and St Stephen's Day/Boxing Day? These are public holidays in Austria and most businesses, including shops and malls, remain closed on both days.

Are Christmas markets in Vienna open after Christmas?

A lot open as early as November 6th, and most are open by November 21st. They normally stay open until at least December 23rd. A few stay open even after Christmas and into the New Year. Each day, the Vienna Christmas markets open sometime between 10 am and 2 pm and typically close around 9 pm.

Is December 26 a holiday in Austria?

December 26 – St.

The Day of St. Stephen (Stepan), the first Christian martyr, is celebrated on December 26. For most Austrians, however, it is simply the second day of the Christmas holiday. Traditionally, people use this day to visit distant relatives and friends.

Are things open the day after Christmas?

The day after Christmas in the U.S. is a traditional day for making gift returns — the first opportunity after the holiday to exchange presents that didn't quite make the grade. That means most U.S. retailers are open on Dec.

What is the prettiest city in Austria?

A picturesque city in the heart of Austria, Salzburg is a must-visit destination for every traveler. Known for its rich history, stunning architecture and breathtaking natural beauty, Salzburg is a city that has something to offer for everyone.

Is Salzburg snowy at Christmas?

Average maximum temperatures of December drop to a frosty three degrees and the minimum ones to minus four. Expect frost. Lots of it. There are only two hours of sunshine on the average December day and the entire month has 12 days of rain or snowfall.

How many days do you need in Vienna for Christmas markets?

At least 3, there's so much to do and see. We just did 9 cities for their Christmas markets and Vienna was by far the best one! In Vienna we only have 1 cathedral 😄 and around 30 markets. Probably 3 full days would a good choice.

Where should I stay for Vienna Christmas Markets?

Our top choices for Vienna Christmas Market hotels

• Sans Souci Vienna. Sans Souci Vienna. ...
• rooms by wolfensson. rooms by wolfensson. ...
• The Leo Grand. The Leo Grand. ...
• Park Hyatt Vienna. Park Hyatt Vienna. ...
• Das Tigra Hotel. ...
• Abieshomes Serviced Apartments - Votivpark. ...
• Boutique Hotel Am Stephansplatz. ...
• Hotel Rathaus Wein & Design.

Where is the best Christmas market in Europe in 2025?

Europe's best Christmas markets for 2025 include traditional German ones in Berlin, Cologne, and Nuremberg, Austrian gems in Vienna and Salzburg, French markets in Strasbourg and Paris (La Défense), historic squares in Prague, and unique spots like Gdańsk, Poland, and Valkenburg, Netherlands, offering festive magic with artisanal crafts, festive foods, and enchanting lights, often running from late November through December.