If you're dreaming of a festive getaway but only have a short time to spare, Vienna is the perfect destination for a Christmas market adventure! Rónan and I flew from Dublin to Vienna for a 24-hour trip, and it turned out to be the ideal amount of time to explore Vienna’s Christmas markets. Here’s a look at our journey, the highlights, and why we think it’s the perfect winter escape.

The Journey: Affordable and Quick

We couldn’t believe how easy and affordable it was to make our Christmas market dreams come true. A round-trip flight from Dublin to Vienna set us back just £85 per person—talk about a bargain for Europes #1 Christmas Market Destination. The flight was quick and hassle-free, and before we knew it, we were stepping off the plane and into one of the most beautiful cities in Europe.

Where We Stayed: Cozy and Comfortable

We opted for a short, two-night stay in an apartment, which cost £150 in total—again, a fantastic deal considering Vienna’s reputation for being a bit on the pricier side. Our apartment was perfectly located, giving us easy access to Vienna’s metro system & of course, the famous Christmas markets.

The Markets: A Winter Wonderland at Rathausplatz

No visit to Vienna during the Christmas season is complete without a stop at the Rathausplatz Christmas Market. This market, located in front of the iconic Rathaus (City Hall), is one of the most famous and picturesque in Europe. As soon as we arrived, we were enchanted by the twinkling lights, the smell of mulled wine (Glühwein) and roasting chestnuts, and the festive decorations that transformed the square into a winter wonderland.

The market stalls offered a variety of handmade crafts, Christmas decorations, and traditional treats. Whether you’re looking for the perfect souvenir or just want to wander around taking in the sights, there’s something for everyone.

Eating Our Way Through the Markets

One of the best things about Vienna’s Christmas markets is the food—and we made sure to sample as much as we could. From sweet pastries like roasted almonds and spiced gingerbread cookies to savory dishes like bratwurst and roasted sausages, we indulged in all of the classic Christmas market fare. But our favorite dish by far was the bread bowl goulash!!

Making Memories in Just 24 Hours

As we walked through the decorated streets, sipped on hot chocolate, and took in the festive sights, we couldn’t help but feel how special this trip was. In just 24 hours, we created memories that will last a lifetime—whether it was watching the ice skaters glide across the rink at the Rathausplatz, shopping for unique Christmas gifts, or simply enjoying the glow of the market lights.

Vienna is a city that captures the magic of the Christmas season in a way that few others do.

Why 24 Hours Was the Perfect Amount of Time

While Vienna has so much more to offer, we found that 24 hours was the perfect amount of time to experience the city’s Christmas markets in all their glory. We weren’t rushed, but we also didn’t feel like we were missing out on anything. The pace of the trip was just right—relaxed enough to enjoy each moment, yet packed with enough activities to make the most of our short stay.

For those looking for a quick winter escape that captures the essence of Christmas magic, Vienna’s Christmas markets should definitely be at the top of your list.

So, pack your bags, grab a hot drink, and book that flight to Vienna. Your winter wonderland awaits!