Christmas markets offer a relaxed social focal point for a corporate ski trip. They are usually wonderfully atmospheric and are ideal evening activities to generate a great group dynamic.

There aren’t many who are immune to the seductive atmosphere of the festive period. Escape the crowded shops & bars and celebrate an end-of-year event in one of Austria’s many Christmas markets. Huddled around open fires, visitors drink Glühwein, eat calorie-loaded goodies and take in the atmosphere of an Alpine Christmas market.

Christmas markets tend to open late in the morning and stay open until mid-evening. They are an ideal way to combine access to the mountains with inclusive group activities and are naturally an excellent option for non-skiers to spend some time in the resort.

Christmas markets in Austria

Austrian Christmas markets are public events, and very few require admission fees. Locals and tourists drop in throughout the day and evening to pick up a Glühwein, Punsch, or other warm drink. There are stalls to buy souvenirs, such as local crafts, farm produce, such as cheese, and confectionery products. The souvenir stalls mingle with the food and drink stalls to create a great visual and aromatic spectacle.

Food is often basic but delicious and is usually eaten standing up. Specialities include doughnuts with sauerkraut, sausages, Alpine pizza-like breads and a selection of cakes. Some visit Christmas markets instead of dinner or lunch, whilst others grab a snack. There are standing tables throughout the Christmas markets where people stop to consume their food.

Christmas market locations

Main pedestrian street of Kitzbuhel at night

Kitzbühel

Kitzbühel is truly magical during the Christmas market season, with stalls lining its medieval centre. The atmosphere is fantastic throughout the pedestrianised centre, with fire baskets and stalls in front of boutique shops. When the shutters go up on the stalls, it is time to venture into one of the many bars or restaurants in the centre of Kitzbühel.

People walking through an old town in winter

Innsbruck

For its variety and number of Christmas markets, Innsbruck is hard to beat. Throughout the Old Town of Innsbruck there are Christmas markets, large and small. Local bars and restaurants often create small outdoor stalls to grab the passing trade, whilst the Golden Roof is a marvellous focal point for the central Christmas market in Innsbruck.

River running through the mountain village of Lech am Arlberg

Lech am Arlberg

Lech is the jewel of the Alps and when the Christmas market is open beneath the central church, the atmosphere is unmatched anywhere.

Hotel in a snowy village with setting sun

Mayrhofen

Mayrhofen's Christmas market is located in the forest, pon the edge of the resort, offering a stunning, atmospheric setting.

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