With Christmas covid-rules outlined, it’s time to get into the festive spirit and what better place to inspire you than Vienna; with its quaint Christmas markets set against imperial palaces, its ice rink boulevards and dazzling Christmas lights, Vienna is the ultimate festive hub and here’s why ….
1. Christmas in Vienna – One of the Largest Ice Rinks in the World
Extending from City Hall all the way to Ringstrasse boulevard, Vienna Ice World covers 9,000 square metres, across two levels and is one of the largest artificial ice rinks in the world. A paradise for skaters of all levels, visitors can wrap up warm and soak up the Christmas cheer on the rink. Ice trails also criss-cross the romantically lit Rathauspark, set to the soundtrack of the iconic Viennese waltz.
2. Christmas in Vienna – Where the Snow-Globe was Invented
In 1900, Viennese Erwin Perzy I invented the world’s first snow globe and today travellers can visit the snow globe factory where his grandson, Erwin Perzy III, produces around 200,000 pieces every year. Providing custom-made snow globes for international celebrities (including the Obamas!), the snow globe factory is a festive delight. Who could revisit working away with their own personalised globe?
3. Christmas in Vienna – Magical Christmas Markets
A multitude of merry markets, set against the backdrop of Vienna’s grand architecture, will return to Vienna this festive season. A Covid-19 prevention strategy has been introduced to ensure that all markets operate safely, allowing visitors to meander through stalls brimming with handicrafts, hot punch and culinary delights. Travellers can visit the Christmas Market at the imperial Schönbrunn Palace, the Christmas Village at the Belvedere Palace or take to the Rathausplatz, the central square outside of the magnificent City Hall, home to Vienna Christmas World.
4. Christmas in Vienna – Christmas Concerts Continue
As concert halls across the world remain silent, the show goes on in the Capital of Music. Vienna’s iconic annual New Year’s concert will take place on the morning of New Year’s Day, as performed by the Vienna Philharmonic in the dazzling Golden Hall of the Musikverein. Classical notes can also be experienced in the run up to the big event, with Vienna State Opera hosting live performances. As 2020 marks the 250th anniversary of Ludwig van Beethoven’s birth, Vienna – the city he chose to call home and where he composed most of his masterpieces – is the ultimate destination to experience classical compositions and celebrate live music this festive season.
5. Christmas in Vienna – Rooftop Winter Wonderlands
Enjoy the Christmas season high above the hustle and bustle from the rooftop bar at the Ritz Carlton Vienna. Located on the iconic Ring Boulevard, The Atmosphere Rooftop Bar offers spectacular views across the twinkling cityscape. From November 15th, the terrace will transform into a winter wonderland, with warming Christmas punch and chalet cabins to enjoy the festive spirit and magnificent city views.