Advent in the Wachau, © Donau Niederösterreich/Andreas Hofer

Advent in Lower Austria

Peace and charm. An abbey, a forge and a castle - these are the stunning settings of the most incredible Christmas markets in Lower Austria.

A peaceful period, with pleasant Advent magic. In the run-up to Christmas, Lower Austria turns into a great big Advent calendar. Over 24 festive markets and attractions can be found behind castle and town gates, in the Kellergassen and ancient ruins, up mountains and in streams.

The streets and front gardens are decorated, long-delayed phone calls are made, the neighbour is visited once again, Christmas shopping checklists are drawn up, ... We show you how Advent in Lower Austria works - without any hustle and bustle!

The waiting time for the Christmas Eve is sweetened in this country with a visit to the traditional Christmas markets in imperial castles and monasteries, medieval castles, underground cellar alleys or in the middle of the snow-covered mountain landscape in Lower Austria. Romantic winter hikes in forests covered with hoarfrost, along frozen streams and on snow-covered mountain peaks make the anticipation of Christmas grow more and more. Or when trying out new biscuit recipes in the company of loved ones - with great eagerness, children big and small cut stars and Christmas trees out of the dough, because they will taste especially delicious in the coming weeks. 

As you already know, presents cannot be opened before Christmas Eve. Those on the road to Lower Austria during the advent period are certain to get lots of presents before Christmas. Be captivated!

All Advent markets at a glance

Advent hikes

Wrap up well in a cosy winter jacket, slip into your winter boots and experience a new side of Lower Austria during Advent.

When the days get shorter and cooler, we know: Christmas is approaching and the year is drawing to a close. Whether with or without snow, with endless expanses, rolling hills and alpine mountains, Lower Austria's landscape is both varied and beautiful.

The contemplative pre-Christmas period can be experienced in Lower Austria on numerous winter hikes in the middle of untouched landscapes past mystical scenes and rustic inns. For a day trip including a culinary highlight, the Zauberblick Runde on the Semmering, the hiking tour on the Tirolerkogel or the Walderlebnisweg in the Zwettltal are ideal. Both idyllic winter hikes and Advent walks in cosy towns, cities and alleys in Lower Austria, with or without animal company, are an excellent way to soak up the winter sun, enjoy the silence of Advent and escape from everyday life before Christmas.

Experience Advent in Lower Austria

The Christmas market in Melk shines in the bright lights, © Donau Niederösterreich/Andreas Hofer

Advent events

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Silent Spa, © Therme Laa – Hotel & Silent Spa

Thermal springs and wellness

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Advent in the Wachau., © Donau Niederösterreich/Andreas Hofer

Overview of Christmas markets

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QF | Advent Kittenberger Erlebnisgärten, © Niederösterreich Werbung/Claudia Schlager

Christmas trips

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Loaf of bread, © Daniela Führer

Christmas biscuits

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Alpaca hiking, Waldviertel, © Waldviertel Tourismus/sommertage.com

Animal adventures in Lower Austria

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Winter forest, Waldviertel, © Waldviertel Tourismus/sommertage.com

A homage to Lower Austria’s trees

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Winter hiking, © sommertage.com

Winter hiking

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Winter holiday in Lower Austria

Experiences in the cold season.

It is often only small moments when we feel the joy of life at its greatest: The cheeks red from the wind after a rapid descent down the slopes. The view that sweeps over the snow-covered mountain landscape after a romantic hike through the winter forests. Or the early morning anticipation of the adventures that await in the evening. Lower Austria offers all this and much more for magical, shared experiences on a winter holiday.