Come December, Vienna’s streets will be awash with festive cheer. The city’s majestic heritage provides the postcard-perfect backdrop for a Dickensian-style winter break. Just image: a blanket of fairy lights illuminating the skies; smoky fumes from the roast chestnuts and sizzling sausages wafting your way; screams of delight from children – big and small – as they whizz their way around one of the many ice skating rinks…. There are so many markets to visit, for toys and trinkets or foodie delights, but we suggest starting with the market on Maria Theresien Platz for the light projections that come to life on the buildings in the Mueumsquartier. Next, explore the popular Rathausplatz Market outside the neo-Gothic town hall for a skate on the ice rinks. And then finish off at the locals’ favourite Am Hof Market for traditional foods and goodies for sale.

There are more surprises to be had in the city… Do make sure to book tickets for one of the many Christmas concerts held throughout the city, where some of the world’s most talented musician’s play the greats, like the Strauss and Mozart Christmas concert held at the elegant Kursalon. And while you’re here, get ahead on some Christmas shopping, picking up stocking fillers for family and friends: a vintage record from Tongues record store; books galore at Berg Und Löwenherz; and sweet traditional confections from Demel. So even if you’re usually a bit of a Scrooge this time of year, you’ll surely be converted. Bah humbug!

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