Why Austria Is the Best Country To Visit This Holiday Season

The holiday season is fast approaching — for travel lovers, that means it’s time to find the best holiday vacation spot once again. If you’re seeking a truly magical and memorable experience, Austria is the ultimate destination! It offers a rich tapestry of experiences, making it the best country to visit for a Christmas getaway. Join us as we explore the festive wonders that await in this charming Alpine nation:

1. Enchanting Christmas Markets

Austria is renowned for its lively and sparkly Christmas markets, where the air is filled with the scent and views of traditional holiday items. Whether you stroll through Vienna's grand Rathausplatz bazaar or explore the idyllic marketplace in Salzburg, you'll find rows of wooden stalls adorned with festive decorations. Vendors sell handcrafted gifts, ornaments, and trinkets that make perfect souvenirs or gifts for loved ones.

2. Traditional Holiday Celebrations

Traditional Christmas celebrations in Austria are deeply rooted in centuries-old customs and rituals. In particular, traveling families can enjoy the Advent season. Join locals as they light Advent candles and place festive wreaths adorned with four candles — one for each Sunday leading up to Christmas. The Advent calendar, often with small doors or pockets hiding surprises, is a beloved tradition among children.

St. Nicholas Day on December 6th is another cherished tradition. It features parades, processions, and the arrival of St. Nicholas and his companion — Krampus — in many regions. It's a time when communities come together to celebrate and share in the holiday spirit.

On Christmas Eve, families gather for a festive meal featuring traditional dishes like roasted goose or carp. After dinner, children eagerly await the arrival of "Christkind" or "Christ Child," who is believed to bring gifts.

3. Lively Concerts and Events

Austria's cultural heritage shines during the holiday season with a myriad of Christmas concerts and events. This is another reason why it’s the best country to visit to celebrate year-end festivities.

As the birthplace of legendary composers like Mozart and Strauss, classical music takes center stage with Christmas concerts and performances in historic venues. Vienna, in particular, hosts an array of festive shows, from classical orchestral performances to choirs singing traditional carols. The Vienna Boys' Choir, renowned worldwide, offers memorable holiday concerts. Beyond the music, Austria's historic venues and museums often host exhibitions and events celebrating the country's cultural traditions.

4. Delicious Culinary Delights

Austrian cuisine is at its finest during the holidays, offering a delightful culinary journey. Indulge in seasonal specialties like "Lebkuchen" (gingerbread cookies), "Maroni" (roasted chestnuts), and "Sachertorte" (chocolate cake). You can also try iconic pastries, including "strudel" and "Linzer cookies." Enjoy these with a cup of steaming "Glühwein" (mulled wine) while savoring the season's festivity!

5. Fun Winter Activities

Winter activities in Austria are a thrilling part of the holiday experience. The country's stunning alpine landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for outdoor adventures. For adrenaline junkies who want to try winter sports, Austria offers world-class skiing, snowboarding, and ice skating opportunities. For leisure activities, you can explore picturesque alpine villages, go ice skating on frozen lakes, or take a horse-drawn sleigh ride through snow-covered landscapes.

6. Cozy Mountain Retreats

Amid Austria's stunning alpine landscapes, you'll find a selection of cozy mountain retreats and lodges. These retreats offer a haven of tranquility and relaxation, with warm interiors featuring crackling fireplaces and plush blankets. Many provide breathtaking views of snow-covered peaks, allowing you to bask in the serene beauty of the Austrian Alps.

Austria: The Best Country To Visit for Your Holiday Escapade

Filled with enchantment, tradition, and festivity, Austria invites you to create cherished holiday memories. Ready to embark on your Austrian holiday adventure? Let Travel With Toby be your guide! In partnership with TripAmigo, we can help you plan an affordable holiday getaway to this Alpine paradise. Contact us at 858-988-7166 today!