Vienna Christmas Markets and Concerts
Experience the Holiday Season in Vienna Like a LocalExperience Vienna's Christmas markets and concerts on this special enhanced UnTour
Welcome to Vienna, the “City of Dreams” — a place where history and culture mingle, and where Mozart, Freud, and even the humble croissant have left their mark. Vienna is undeniably special, but during the festive season, it becomes downright magical.
Picture a crisp winter breeze, the twinkle of lights and candles, and the irresistible scent of roasted chestnuts filling the streets. As you stroll past artisan stalls brimming with handcrafted treasures, you pause to savor fresh pastries, all set against the backdrop of Vienna’s stunning historic architecture. Vienna’s legendary Christmas markets are a tradition dating back to the 13th century and cherished by locals as one of the highlights of the year.
And then there’s the music! Vienna’s concert halls and ballrooms come alive during the holidays. From the elegance of world-renowned balls to the stirring performances of the Vienna Philharmonic, the city hosts over 450 balls and countless hours of concerts, offering an unforgettable celebration. The only way to truly understand it is to experience it for yourself.
On this exclusive 7-day enhanced UnTour, your local UnGuide will lead you through Vienna’s most iconic Christmas markets and the finest concerts and events, making sure you experience them just as the Viennese do. With our expert guidance, you won’t need to worry about missing a thing. Instead, focus on creating memories you’ll cherish for a lifetime.
How is this different from a traditional UnTour?
- This special week includes a curated daily activity, giving you more chances to dive into the festive spirit. But don’t worry—there’s still plenty of time to explore Vienna on your own.
- You’ll be joined by fellow UnTourists for these activities, creating the perfect opportunity to share the experience with new friends, all guided by your trusted UnGuide.
- This enhanced Christmas Markets and Concerts UnTour is offered just once in 2024, so make sure to book the specific dates to join in on this magical experience!
Rest assured, at its core, this experience will still carry the soul of an UnTour—the chance to unpack once and immerse yourself fully in local life.
What's included
- One week (or more) in carefully vetted accommodations in Vienna.
- Suggestions for booking your international flight from the U.S. to your arrival airport, or we can purchase tickets on your behalf. (Click for more information on UnTours' air policies.)
- Transfer in and out from/to your arrival airport or train station.
- An orientation session by our superb on-site staff (UnGuide) with current information on local events, tours, and activities.
- Exclusive local information on our UnTours travel app for your mobile phone to have all of our recommendations at your fingertips before and throughout your trip -researched and written by UnGuide on the ground in Vienna and full of the best restaurants, sightseeing, and other suggestions.
- Included activities:
- Visits to the following Christmas markets: Vienna City Hall, Stephansplatz, Am Hof, Spittelberg, Karlskirche, Schönbrunn and Belvedere.
- Two concerts carefully selected by our UnGuide.
- Visit to Snow Globe Manufactory or Porcelain Manufactory (Depending on availability).
- A Christmas bakery workshop.
- A special farewell toast!
- A stash of groceries upon your arrival, so you don’t need to shop right away.
- Pre-trip planning advice from our staff, available by phone or email right up until you leave.
- Ongoing support with our UnGuide. Help available when you need it.
Arrival in Vienna
Welcome to the “City of Dreams”—the beginning of your Viennese adventure! You’ve arrived in the world’s most liveable city—awarded that title for the third year in a row in 2024. Are you ready to see why? We’ll arrange seamless transportation to your apartment and be there to greet you upon arrival, ensuring everything goes smoothly for check-in. Once you’re settled, you’ll join your local UnGuide for a brief orientation, where you’ll get a glimpse of the unforgettable week ahead. Your UnGuide’s expertise ensures that you’re plans will be adjusted to suit the best days and times to discover these exciting experiences. Here is a taste of the wonderful activities that will be included in the week:
Orientation meeting and your first Christmas Market visit
Your full orientation will take place at a cozy local coffee shop, where your UnGuide will walk you through all the essentials: what’s included, what’s not, and tailored suggestions for how to spend your free time. Have questions? Your UnGuide is your go-to for insider tips, using their local expertise to make sure you get the most out of your stay. The afternoon is yours to explore at your own pace, but the evening brings a real highlight—the grand Christmas market in front of Vienna’s city hall, the largest in the city. A magical way to kick off your adventure, wouldn’t you say?
Optional activity: Explore the Christmas markets at Stephansplatz, Am Hof, or Spittelberg on a guided afternoon walking tour, complete with a traditional Viennese lunch.
Visit a snow globe factory and attend your first concert
Today, you’ll step into a cherished Viennese tradition with a visit to a local snow globe factory. This isn’t just any factory, but the birthplace of these delicate keepsakes, where the craft has been passed down through generations. You’ll get a glimpse into the artistry behind each globe, a symbol of Vienna’s charm and a timeless reminder of the holiday spirit.
Afterward, enjoy some time at your own pace—whether you choose to explore the city’s cozy streets, visit one of Vienna’s timeless cafés, or simply soak in the atmosphere.
As evening draws near, the highlight of your day awaits: your first concert in the heart of the music capital. Curated by your UnGuide, this performance has been chosen with care to reflect the very best of Vienna’s legendary music scene. Held in one of the city’s most iconic venues, it’s an experience that will immerse you in Vienna’s rich musical heritage and leave a lasting impression.
Trip to the countryside and a Castle Christmas Market
Venture out to the countryside for a truly enchanting experience—a Christmas market set within the grounds of a centuries-old castle. Picture the festive lights twinkling against the backdrop of historic stone walls, the air filled with the scent of mulled wine and freshly baked treats. This is your invitation to step into a fairytale, where locals gather to celebrate the season with handmade crafts, holiday delicacies, and festive cheer.
After soaking in the magic of the market, we’ll return to Vienna in the afternoon, leaving the rest of the day open for you to explore at your own pace.
Karlskirche Christmas Market and your second concert
The morning is yours to enjoy at a leisurely pace, though for those interested, your UnGuide can arrange a memorable classical music experience at a local church, where the sounds of choir and orchestra will resonate within the acoustics of one of Vienna’s sacred spaces.
In the afternoon, head to the Karlskirche Christmas market, renowned for its vibrant blend of arts and craftsmanship. Known as Art Advent, this market stands out for its originality. From handcrafted gifts to innovative displays, there’s much to explore here before we transition into the evening’s highlight.
As dusk settles, we’ll prepare for the second concert of the tour. Curated by your UnGuide, this performance offers a chance to experience Vienna’s rich musical traditions in yet another breathtaking venue. Expect an evening that will linger in your memory long after the final notes have been played.
Visits to Schönbrunn and Belvedere
Today’s journey takes us to Christmas markets set against the backdrop of Vienna’s most majestic palaces. Picture strolling through festive stalls adorned with twinkling lights and elaborate decorations, all framed by the grand architecture of historic landmarks.
Each market offers its own unique atmosphere, filled with the aroma of seasonal treats and the warmth of festive cheer. As you wander, you’ll experience the splendor of Vienna’s imperial past, from the grandeur of the Habsburgs to the beauty that defines the city’s holiday season.
After a morning and early afternoon filled with festive delights, the evening is yours to enjoy at your own pace.
Bakery workshop and a farewell toast
The day begins with a traditional Christmas bakery workshop, where you’ll have the chance to master the art of crafting local holiday treats. After savoring these delicacies over the past few days, it’s now time to learn the secrets behind their creation.
In the afternoon, enjoy some free time to wander or unwind at your own pace. As evening falls, we’ll come together for a magical finale. Stroll beneath Vienna’s most enchanting Christmas lights, casting a festive glow across the city. We’ll wrap up the evening with a traditional Viennese Christmas Punch, sharing a few treats and toasting to a holiday full of unforgettable memories.
Departure day
As departure day arrives, your UnGuide will be there to ensure everything goes smoothly. From helping with checkout to transport to the airport, we’ll take care of the details so you can focus on your journey ahead.
Until next time—safe travels and see you soon!
Available Accommodations
The comfortable, well-appointed accommodations for this holiday adventure are a great place to unpack, relax and get to know Vienna and the people who call it home.
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Andante SB
Studio apartment in central Vienna
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Andante SA
Studio apartment in central Vienna
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Andante 4PB
1-bedroom apartment in central Vienna
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Andante 4PA
1-bedroom apartment in central Vienna
Location
Vienna - Austria
Vienna is a cultural treasure at the heart of Europe, perfect for those who embrace slow travel. This Old World city stands apart, offering a feast for the senses with its music, history, and unmistakable charm. Picture yourself wandering through grand cathedrals, strolling past ornate palaces, and soaking in the sounds of live concerts echoing through its streets. Vienna invites you to explore at your own pace—whether you’re savoring a coffee in an elegant café, wandering through its lush parks, or losing yourself in the masterpieces of its world-class museums. Here, the beauty is in the details, and every corner reveals another layer of this enchanting city’s rich heritage.
Reviews
Here's what our guests have to say
The Christmas markets were absolutely outstanding!
What a blast! We feel like now we know the Vienna's Christmas markets the way we expected to. And besides, we enjoyed a few excursions to experience Christmas markets in the countryside, which was very special and felt very local! Birgit, our UnGuide, is an absolute gem! She definitely made our trip!
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The money we pay for your accommodation will benefit the local economy where you will be staying.
Nov 30, 2024 to Dec 7, 2024
Program Director
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