Festive Vienna: Christmas Markets & Culture for Two

Day 1 - Summary

Arrival, Settle-in, and First Taste of Vienna's Christmas Magic at Rathausplatz

Activities for Day 1

1. Arrival at Vienna International Airport (VIE)

   Time: 10:00Duration: 1h

   Arrive at Vienna International Airport (VIE). Proceed through customs and collect your luggage. From here, you can take the City Airport Train (CAT), a regular train (S7), or a bus to the city center.

   Vienna International Airport (VIE), 1300 Schwechat, Austria

   Type: LogisticsCost: N/A

   Notes: The CAT is the fastest option to Wien Mitte station, but also the most expensive. The S7 is a more budget-friendly alternative.

2. Transfer to Accommodation

   Time: 11:30Duration: 0.5h - 1h

   Transfer from Vienna International Airport to your accommodation in Vienna. Options include City Airport Train (CAT), S7 train, airport bus, or taxi.

   Vienna City Center (General)

   Type: LogisticsCost: Inexpensive

   Notes: The S7 train or airport bus are good budget options. Plan your route in advance to your hotel.

3. Check-in and Settle In

   Time: 12:30Duration: 1h

   Check into your hotel or apartment. Take some time to freshen up and leave your luggage before heading out to explore.

   Your accommodation in Vienna

   Type: LogisticsCost: N/A

   Notes: If your room isn't ready, most hotels offer luggage storage so you can start your exploration right away.

4. Lunch: Traditional Viennese Snacks or Local Cafe

   Time: 13:30Duration: 1h

   Enjoy a casual, inexpensive lunch to fuel up for your festive afternoon. Look for a local 'Beisl' (traditional Viennese pub) offering daily specials or grab a quick bite at a bakery.

   Local Restaurant/Cafe near Rathausplatz

   Type: RestaurantCost: Inexpensive

   Notes: Keep an eye out for 'Mittagsmenü' (lunch menus) which offer great value. Alternatively, you can start sampling early treats at the Christmas market.

5. Explore the Vienna Christkindlmarkt at Rathausplatz

   Time: 15:00Duration: 3h

   Immerse yourselves in the enchanting atmosphere of Vienna's most famous Christmas market. Located in front of the stunning City Hall, it offers countless stalls with crafts, gifts, and culinary delights. Enjoy roasted chestnuts, warm punch, and festive treats while admiring the beautifully decorated surroundings.

   Rathausplatz, Wien, Austria

   Type: Christmas MarketCost: Inexpensive

   Notes: This market is very popular, especially in the evening. Go early in the afternoon to avoid the biggest crowds. Don't forget to try the Glühwein (mulled wine) in commemorative mugs!

   Must See

6. Dinner & Evening at Rathausplatz Christkindlmarkt

   Time: 18:00Duration: 2h

   Continue enjoying the festive spirit at Rathausplatz. For dinner, explore the various food stalls offering traditional Austrian street food like Käsekrainer (cheese-filled sausage), Langos (fried bread with toppings), and sweet Kaiserschmarrn (shredded pancake). The twinkling lights and festive music create a magical ambiance.

   Rathausplatz, Wien, Austria

   Type: RestaurantCost: Inexpensive

   Notes: Dining at the market is a quintessential Christmas experience in Vienna and fits your limited budget perfectly.

   Must See

7. Evening Free Time & Return to Hotel

   Time: 20:00Duration: 1.5h

   After a day of travel and festive exploration, enjoy a relaxed evening. You can take a leisurely walk back to your hotel, admiring the illuminated city, or simply unwind and prepare for another day of adventures.

   Vienna City Center

   Type: Free TimeCost: Free

   Notes: Vienna's city center is beautifully lit during Christmas, making an evening stroll a delightful experience.