My daughter and I are planning a trip to Salzburg then Vienna. Arriving in Munich, travelling to Salzburg via train on Dec 21 then to Vienna on Dec 24 for three nights.
Questions/advice:
Should we preorder train tickets bc of holiday season? I really don’t like to do that and Im not certain on even how to do it- but experienced significant full trains in Paris December 2020.
Upon arrival in Vienna on Christmas Eve- any thoughts on markets open, restaurants availability, etc?
While in Salzburg, any advice on the Silent Night chapel visit? or must sees/do in the area?
What should we expect on Christmas Day in Vienna? the USA is pretty much shut down on the 25th.
Thank you for your kind advice…
Posted by
910 posts
We have been to Oberndorf (The Silent Night Chapel). It's a pretty area on the river, and the chapel is small and lovely. We were on a Rick Steves tour; and several tour members who clearly sing in their church choir with their lovely voices, extemporaneously led us all in song. I would look into what type of seasonal events they may hold their during the Christmas season. It would be a unique and special experience.
Posted by
2230 posts
Christmas markets shut down around 2pm on December 24th, shops somewhat later. December 25th and 26th are public holidays in Austria, i.e., nearly everything is closed.
Midnight, December 24th, there is the traditional Christmas mass in St. Stephen's Cathedral.
I recommend buying your train tickets in advance, including seat reservations. Note that there is the coordinated train schedule change of all European railway companies on December 14th. Therfore time tables beyond this date are tentative at the moment.
You have to investigate thoroughly which restaurants are open during your stay, and reservations are a must.
In my view, the dates you have selected for visiting Vienna are not the best choice.