As the winter chill sets in and evenings grow darker, a magical European capital just a short flight from London emerges as the perfect festive escape. Vienna, Austria's historic city, transforms into a winter wonderland during the Christmas season, offering visitors an unforgettable experience.
Your Essential Vienna Christmas Itinerary
The journey from London to Vienna takes approximately two hours and fifteen minutes by air, making it ideal for a long weekend getaway. The city's compact layout and excellent public transport network mean you can explore comfortably even after a quick flight.
No visit to Vienna during Advent would be complete without experiencing the world-famous Christmas Market at Rathausplatz. This historic square becomes a breathtaking festive spectacle that attracts millions of visitors each year.
You'll find yourself surrounded by twinkling lights and beautiful decorations creating an utterly magical atmosphere. With over 150 stalls to explore, the market offers everything from handcrafted gifts to traditional Austrian treats like Vanillekipferl vanilla cookies and Lebkuchen spiced biscuits.
Warming mugs of Glühwein (mulled wine) will keep you cosy as you enjoy carol singers and live performances. The ice rink provides entertainment for visitors of all ages, adding to the cheerful atmosphere.
Beyond the Christmas Markets: Vienna's Hidden Gems
While the Christmas markets are a major draw, Vienna boasts other remarkable attractions. The Hundertwasser House, completed in 1985 by renowned architect Friedensreich Hundertwasser, is an absolute must-see.
This extraordinary apartment block features a vibrant explosion of colours, unconventional shapes and undulating lines that defy traditional architecture. Directly opposite stands Hundertwasser Village, where stepping inside feels like entering a different world reminiscent of Willy Wonka's factory.
The area features red brick archways, vintage lamp posts and charming alcoves housing petite boutiques. After exploring these unique attractions, you'll likely have worked up an appetite.
Bier and Bierli comes highly recommended, offering mouth-watering schnitzels, fresh salads and various beverages. The establishment has earned an impressive 4.4-star rating on Google, with one satisfied customer praising both the food and exceptionally friendly, professional service.
Planning Your Affordable Vienna Escape
Multiple travel options exist from London to Vienna, but budget-conscious travellers will appreciate the Wizz Air flight departing London Luton at 5:10pm and arriving in Vienna at 8:25pm local time.
At the time of writing, tickets for this route were available for just £20.59, making this festive city break surprisingly affordable. Travel comparison websites like Skyscanner can help secure the best deals, while accommodation options are readily available on Booking.com.
With its enchanting Christmas atmosphere, world-class attractions and budget-friendly travel options, Vienna presents an irresistible proposition for British travellers seeking a magical winter getaway that feels both exotic and accessible.
