Winter in Austria

Traditions and the art of living: the essence of "Lebensgefühl"

Yes, the simple joys of winter truly exist, from snow blankets and exhilarating runs down the ski slopes to warm apple strudel by a tiled stove accompagnied with hot chocolate, snowball fights, flushed cheeks and the cheerful laughter of children on sleds. In Austria, these simple winter pleasures embody the famous Lebensgefühl, the quintessential Austrian art of living.

Austria’s cities and winter resorts offer breathtaking mountain views alongside charming historic centers. The country embraces Advent wholeheartedly, celebrating the anticipation of Christmas with love and devotion throughout four festive weeks. Wander through enchanting Christmas markets, savour the aromas of regional specialties and admire exquisite local crafts. This is the magic of the "most wonderful time of the year".

Book your trip to Austria's most picturesque winter towns today!

Enchanting winter towns

Embrace the christmas spirit with festive markets, carol singing and skating rinks

Graz in Advent

Graz shines in festive splendour during Advent and enchants with 14 Christmas markets, all of which are within walking distance. Each market has its own charm - from traditional to modern. The artistically designed ice cot in the Landhaus courtyard is particularly impressive. The Office of Christmas Carols invites you to sing along, while the cot trail leads through the old town.

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Salzburg in winter

Salzburg blossoms once again in winter. You can feel it in the run-up to Christmas, when the Christmas market in the Cathedral and Residenz squares enchants the Old Town. What's more, there's always music in the air, from Advent carols and New Year's concerts to Mozart week, and the museums offer exciting exhibitions. Salzburg is a city at its best, even in winter.

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Local rail network

Made in Austria

High-speed Railjet trains from Zurich provide direct services multiple times a day to towns and holiday destinations along the international line stretching from Feldkirch in the West to Vienna in the East with stops in the regional capitals of Innsbruck, Salzburg, and Linz.

Traveling south is equally convenient, with Railjet trains connecting to Graz, Villach and Klagenfurt. Smaller towns and holiday destinations are seamlessly integrated into the regional rail network making it easy to find your ideal destination on the ÖBB network map.

ÖBB Nightjet trains have revitalized international night travel, offering direct services from Switzerland to Vienna and Graz that have proven to be incredibly popular. Book your train-based holiday in Austria today!

Detail route map ÖBB