HI:
We are going to Vienna for one week at Christmas. One of us has been there before for one day and first time for the other traveller. Wondering what the best Christmas markets are to fit in. Also we are considering a day trip to Salzburg. Any recommendations for sights to fit in in one day. I have been to Bratislava before so do not feel the need to go back. Thank you.
We once spent Christmas in Budapest then moved to Vienna mid-week and stayed through New Year's Day. I would suggest that the market at Schonbrunn is nice, and there are also markets stalls between the Kunsthistoriche museum and natural history museum, plus others. It is a very busy week in Vienna, so make your reservations for hotel soon, and also for whatever you want to do on New Year's eve if you will still be there.
Oh how wonderful! We spent a few days in Vienna over Christmas and then took a bus to spend a few days in Budapest. It was fabulous! We also enjoyed Schonbrunn. It felt quieter than the large glitzy affair at the Rathaus, which was fun to see but felt more commercialized and definitely busier. We didn't visit any other markets. I think there's one at the Prater amusement area which would be a fun vibe. Go on the famous ferris wheel!
We did enjoy walking around the ring, stopping in for cake and tea at their famous coffee houses, and visiting a few museums. We briefly saw the Kunsthistorisches Museum but liked the House of Music even more. I would have liked to have seen the Opera house but didn't have time.
I haven't seen Salzburg but if you're interested in Budapest it was fabulous. The Szechenyi Baths were amazing in winter!
You could easily do a day trip to Salzburg and just follow Rick's suggestions for a walking tour of that city, just keep in mind that it's about a 3-hour train trip each way so factor that into your timing
Hello, Vienna Christmas Market expert here.
I suggest that you look at previous posts I have made, breaking down all of the markets. Even though these are a few years old, I promise you that nothing changes. I make a point to go to every Christmas Market in Vienna every year. We additionally try to go to another town every year for other markets:
As you will read, my favorite Christmas markets are Karlsplatz, Spittelberg and Altes AKH.
For a day trip to Salzburg, I recommend you visit the main Christmas market and the fortress. Also wander the streets in the old city center. It will be cold.
