The pre-Christmas period sprinkles a distinct magic across Carinthia. In addition to the traditional Christmas markets in the cities and by the lakes of Austria’s sunny south, visitors can look forward to plenty of new initiatives that have grown over the past years. Experience festive joy at its most surprising and diverse, far away from the Christmas rush.
Magical Winter Timeout
Advent in Carinthia – in southern Austria
Experience an unforgettable Advent weekend in Carinthia and let yourself be enchanted by the magical moments between Klagenfurt and Lake Wörthersee.
Book now- 2 overnight stays including breakfast in the desired category
- Guided city tour in Klagenfurt am Wörthersee on Saturday at 11:00 a.m.
- Visit to the Christmas market at Neuer Platz and the “Hafenknistern” at Lendhafen (Klagenfurt)
- Transfer from the hotel to the Pyramidenkogel on Sunday at 12:30 p.m.
- “Advent above the clouds” including admission to the Pyramidenkogel
- Transfer from the Pyramidenkogel to the Christmas Market at Maria Wörth at 2:30 p.m.
- Guided church tour in Maria Wörth followed by a musical devotion
- Boat trip from Maria Wörth to the Christmas Market at Velden at 4:00 p.m.
Urban Advent in Klagenfurt and Villach
The Christmas market around the Lindwurm fountain on Neuer Platz in the Renaissance old town of Klagenfurt invites you to take a stroll, whilst "Hafenknistern" in the wintry Lendhafen district creates a Christmas atmosphere with warming fire bowls, handicrafts and a colourful musical programme. Not far from the provincial capital, visitors can experience traditional customs and crafts against the backdrop of the Maria Saal open-air museum.
Villach
Those still looking for presents are sure to find inspiration in Villach, the "City in the Light". Around 30 stalls surround the parish church, its tower glowing like a candle above the rooftops of the city. Why not do a couple of laps on the glittering ice rink on town hall square before stopping for a bite to eat at one of the welcoming stalls?
The magic of Christmas at Carinthia's lakes
Velden Advent in what is known as the "Town of Angels" enchants with its floating wreath and a Christmas market in front of the Schlosshotel. Many of the highlights are specially designed for the little ones as part of the Children's Advent.
Pörtschach, Maria Wörth
Those in search of a more reflective experience should visit the "Silent Advent" in Pörtschach. A small market on the promenade by the lake, filled with life by local heritage groups, associations and initiatives. The path of lights along the promenade draws on all of the senses, with torch-lit walks around the protected area of the Pörtschach peninsula to the "living crib". Tip: Advent boat with message in a bottle and trip through the sea of stars.
Things are equally placid on the southern shores of Lake Wörthersee. The romantic Church Advent awaits guests and locals on the Maria Wörth peninsula, with its wide range of concerts in the pilgrimage church and wooden huts selling culinary delights and crafts.
Above the clouds
The Pyramidenkogel viewing tower invites you to experience Advent above the clouds. At 100 metres, the widely visible landmark of the Wörthersee region illuminates the sky in a special way. By the foot of the tower, visitors will find a quaint Christmas market with crafts, local farmers’ products and music. Kids love the specially designed Christmas house, to which lamas, goats and donkeys pay a visit now and then.
On the mountain at 1,750 metres above sea level
The Katschberg Advent Path invites you on an atmospheric winter walk through the snow-covered landscape at 1,750 metres above sea level. Themed barns line the lantern-lit path, with a different surprise to be found in each one: from teddy bear making workshops to choral music, readings and warming tea. You can reach the starting point of the Advent Path via the so-called Wichtelweg (2.5 km) on foot or by horse-drawn carriage. It takes around 45 minutes to complete the path at a leisurely pace.
Amidst the Nockberge
Between the peaks of the Nockberge mountains lies the World Cup and spa town of Bad Kleinkirchheim, where the Alpine-Spa-Advent is held. Particularly enticing impressions await at the craft market on Saturdays, when local craftsmen and exhibitors from the Alpine-Adriatic region present their handicrafts, baked goods and culinary delights.
On the "advent path" you will find contemplation, peace and quiet. This Christmas, lovingly designed path leads you past Advent windows from the Kurpark to the church of St. Kathrein. Every Saturday and on 8 December, a solemn mass with musical accompaniment is held here to proclaim the peaceful message of Christmas. Every Friday, a torchlight walk along the Kirchheimer Bach sets the mood for the approaching festivities.
Mallnitz Mountain Advent
Surrounded by snow-white peaks, the Mallnitz Mountain Advent promises an authentic Advent experience in the Hohe Tauern National Park region. The Advent path stretches across 3.5 km and on the Advent weekends there is a Christmas market offering culinary delights and handicrafts. The colourful children’s programme rounds off the festive fun with tobogganing, storytelling, supervised crafts, a Christmas post office and model railway. A great way to get there is by train as the circular route starts directly at Mallnitz-Obervellach station.
Winter Kärnten Card
From exploring snow-covered mountains to relaxing snowshoe hikes through the Carinthian countryside, the Winter Kärnten Card is your ideal companion. Impressive views from the Pyramidenkogel, absorbing culture at Carinthia’s museums, numerous cable cars and much more bring variety to the cold season.
Further information: www.kaerntencard.at/winter/en/