Christmas time in Vienna = the best time
It's already frosty outside, the days are getting shorter and there is already something quiet in the air. Yes, it's that time again! The fifth season has begun and I would like to bring you closer to Advent in Vienna. My name is Sabrina and I have been part of the reception team for three years.
Graben & Annagasse
The most striking sign that Christmas is just around the corner are the countless lights. If you are strolling through the city center of Vienna and get one or the other present, pay attention to the Christmas lights. At the Graben you can admire the magnificent chandeliers, in the Habsburgergasse you can see the Habsburg crowns and the Rotenturmstraße illuminated in a lively red. My personal favorite is the Annagasse, because here the shops are lit by the notes of the song "Silent Night, Holy Night".
Rathausplatz
An absolute highlight is the Vienna Christmas Dream on Rathausplatz and the name doesn't promise too much. You will be welcomed by a huge archway with Advent candles, Christmas tree balls and countless lights. The fairytale Christmas world around the Christkindlmarkt combines the unmistakable tradition with impressive attractions. The huge Christmas tree that is sponsored every year by one of the nine federal states is hard to miss. This year the spruce comes from Burgenland and illuminates the town hall square with over 1,000 LED lights.
The Vienna Ice Dream is perfect for all those who want to do a little sport. You can do a few quick laps on the largest ice surface in the city (shoes are of course available to borrow) and then the punch and the various delicacies taste all the better. Another little tip for those who have just fallen in love: On Rathausplatz you will also find the “Herzerlbaum” (translates as Kisses-Tree) directly on Bussiplatz 1 (translates as kiss-place). The perfect place for a romantic selfie.
Karlsplatz
The sustainable ART Advent at Karlsplatz is an absolute must. In the spirit of sustainability, the entire gastronomy is certified organic and it is used in all areas (such as mobility, Procurement, waste management, energy ...) strive for an optimal ecological orientation. If you are looking for fire shows, stilt theater and live music, then you have come to the right place. There is also a lot on offer for children, from a petting zoo to a huge straw landscape where the little ones can really work off.
Spittelberg
When we're talking about Advent in Vienna, one of the most famous and beautiful markets should not be missing, namely the Christmas market on Spittelberg, a five-minute walk from the Volkstheater. The narrow Biedermeier streets are transformed into a real Christmas village. No two stands are the same here and there is something new to discover on every corner. My insider tip: they have the best potato pancakes here!
Recipe for Chai punch
If you are now sitting at home and are in the mood for a really good punch, here is one of my favorite recipes for the cold season:
Chai punch:
- 250 ml orange juice
- 250 ml of water 8 cl rum (a little more if you like)
- 8 cl amaretto
- 6 cl chai syrup
- some cinnamon
I wish you a nice and, above all, a peaceful Advent!
