Austria’s smaller cities shouldn’t be overlooked this winter. Visiting in time for the Linz Christmas Market is a great way to experience the city at its best, as the Baroque architecture is illuminated by lights and decorations.
Read on for the confirmed 2024 dates, opening times, and what to expect.
Linz Christmas Market 2024
Dates – Confirmed
Linz Christmas Market dates: 23rd November to 24th December 2024 (confirmed).
Update: Dates were announced in July. Sign up for our newsletter for future updates.
Source: Dates are obtained directly from the organiser, available here.
Plan Your Visit
Location and Times
Location: Hauptplatz and Volksgarten.
Opening times: 9am to 9pm.
Christmas Eve: 9am to 4pm.
Christmas Day: Closed.
Travel and Accommodation
Recommended tour: Family-friendly historic walking tour.
Public transport: Tram stop: Hauptplatz and Goethekreuzung (Volksgarten).
Parking: Please take public transport to help limit congestion. Nearby garages are Hauptplatz Tiefgarage and Parkgarage Musiktheater (Volksgarten).
Where to stay: Motel One Linz-Hauptplatz is a great value for money hotel located directly on the main square.
Amenities and Attractions
Admission: Free, no tickets required.
Christmas lights: No announced switch-on date.
Santa: No.
Music: Daily from 5pm.
Ice skating: No.
Reason to visit: Hauptplatz hosts one of the largest and most popular in Austria, with over 160 stalls.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian: Yes, plenty of options.
Vegan: Yes, but limited.
Gluten-free: Limited. Ask individual vendors, but beware of cross-contamination.
Specialities: Linzer torte, roasted almonds coated with sugar and cinnamon, Kiachl: a deep-fried doughnut, Kaiserschmarrn: a fluffy, shredded pancake, Almdudler: a popular Austrian soft drink made from mountain herbs.
Accessibility
Accessible: Yes.
Pet-friendly: Yes, dogs are allowed on a lead, but it’s not recommended during busy periods.
Convenient Hotels
Stay anywhere in the Altstadt (Old Town) to be near the markets. This area is quite large, extending from the Danube River to the Volksgarten.
I suggest staying at Motel One Linz-Hauptplatz in this area because of its location on Hauptplatz and value for money. Motel One is a nice, affordable hotel brand that is common across Europe.
Otherwise, check out these hotels in Linz and get more ideas on where to stay.
As there are so many beautiful cities in the region, read this Austria Christmas Markets List to discover other destinations. There are several nearby places you could visit on the same trip.
Event Location
Captured a moment that embodies the holiday season? Tag your photos with #UltimateChristmasMarkets — we can’t wait to see your festive finds!
Christmas in Linz
Linz transforms during the holiday season with sparkling lights and a magnificent tree in the historic streets and main square.
Visit the Volksgarten market for a family-friendly experience with children’s rides, live theatre, craft demonstrations, and animated huts.
Wander through the market to enjoy the scent of roasted chestnuts and mulled wine. Discover stalls selling artisan gifts and decorations.
Before leaving, don’t miss the vintage carousel and warm, freshly baked gingerbread.
Regional Specialties
- Linzertorte: A spiced pastry with a lattice top filled with blackcurrant jam. A local specialty named after the city.
- Bratwurst: Grilled sausages served in fresh rolls. A quick and tasty snack.
- Kaiserschmarrn: Light, fluffy, torn pancakes sweetened and served with powdered sugar and fruit compotes. I highly recommend this one!
- Pretzels: Classic salted pretzels and variations with different fillings or toppings.
- Vanillekipferl: Crescent-shaped cookies made with ground nuts, sugar, and vanilla, dusted with powdered sugar.
- Lebkuchen: Gingerbread made with honey, spices, and nuts, often decorated with icing or chocolate.
- Maroni Roasted Chestnuts: Popular street food during winter, especially around holiday markets.
- Kartoffelsalat: Warm potato salad, often made with apples, a classic side dish.
- Krautfleckerl: Pasta and cabbage seasoned with caraway seeds and grated cheese.
- Knödel Dumplings: Bread or potato dumplings served as a side dish or vegetarian main course with gravy and sauerkraut.
- Glühwein: Traditional warm mulled wine with spices like cinnamon and cloves.
What to Buy
- Linzertorte: Local delicacy believed to be the oldest cake in the world, with a buttery shortcrust and redcurrant filling. This would make a great gift!
- Handblown Glass Ornaments: Unique ornaments handcrafted by local artisans, perfect for home decor.
- Austrian Dirndls and Lederhosen: Traditional clothing reflecting Austria’s rich culture and heritage.
- Handcrafted Wooden Toys: Detailed and creative toys that nod to traditional items.
- Local Wines and Spirits: Bottles of regional white and red wines, as well as traditional Austrian spirits.
- Traditional Decorations: Wreaths, advent calendars, angel figurines, and candleholders are some examples.
- Mozartkugel: These are confections of pistachio marzipan and nougat covered in dark chocolate, packaged for gifting. They are a good option for Mozart fans.
- Local Art: Art inspired by Linz’s architecture, history and landscapes.
Sustainability Tips
- Renewable Energy Use: Choose hotels using renewable energy. Support vendors with solar-powered lights and energy-saving technology.
- Reducing Food Waste: Share food dishes to try more variety without waste. Look for vendors with food waste reduction initiatives.
- Ethical Consumption: Buy locally made, handcrafted, lower-impact items to support local craftspeople and reduce environmental impact.
- Sustainable Diets: Choose food vendors sourcing ingredients locally. Linz is known for its agriculture, so many vendors use local produce.
- Transport: Use the public transportation system of trams and buses. For shorter distances, walk or rent a bike. If needed, choose electric taxis.
- Limit Single-Use Plastics: Bring reusable shopping bags and containers. Refuse unnecessary packaging when buying food and drinks.
- Water Conservation: Conserve water by using it wisely. Many hotels have water-saving devices. Limit your shower time. Avoid hotels that have a pool.
- Support Local Businesses: Shop at local businesses and eat at local restaurants to boost the economy and promote sustainable tourism.
Comment below if you want to leave a Xmas review, have any questions or would like to report any inaccuracies.
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Recommendations are independently chosen based on personal travel experiences and extensive research. While we make every effort to provide accurate information, the dates and details listed here should not be relied upon. Please consult the official website before booking your trip or planning a visit.
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