I spied an outstanding offer from British Airways from Atlanta to Vienna — and just perfect to fly over to experience the Austrian Christmas markets. There isn’t just one market but dozens across the country. The best traditional markets are in small villages. You don’t need a guided tour or a fancy river cruise to enjoy the markets. Public transportation is easy to use and/or taxi services or Uber.
Fly with British Airways at round-trip rates from $580 Economy during these departure windows:
- November 17-December 9 (Thanksgiving!)
- December 31-March 5
Rates are $650-$780 when departing September 8-November 16.
You have the option to upgrade from the Economy rate of $580 to Standard Economy for $779. With that comes one checked bag and one free ticket change (fare difference will apply). Premium Economy is $1,560.
There is no ticket-by date on this special airfare, so make haste. Compare to Delta/Air France rates from $896.
The 2024 Vienna Christmas market, Christkindlmarkt, is scheduled to open on November 16 and run until December 26 from 10 AM–10 PM. The market is located in front of the Rathaus City Hall and features a giant Christmas tree, many stalls and an adjacent park with Advent surprises. The market also has an ice rink, ferris wheel and adult carousel. The famous market at the Schönbrunn Palace will open on either November 15 or 22 (the palace is about 40 minutes from the center of Vienna).
Another outstanding setting for the holiday market is in Salzburg, opening November 21-January 1.
Better yet, seek out the smaller markets across Austria. Here are some train travel times between major cities in Austria:
- Vienna to Graz: 2 hours and 38 minutes
- Vienna to Klagenfurt: 3 hours and 58 minutes
- Vienna to Innsbruck: 4 hours and 14 minutes
- Salzburg to Kufstein: 1 hour and 10 minutes
- Kufstein to Innsbruck: 40 minutes
With advance planning, travel 2nd class from Vienna to Graz, for example, from just €9,90 per person one-way ($10.75). you can reserve a seat on domestic ÖBB trains up to 180 days in advance.
You might want to consider a first-class ticket if you’re traveling during the Christmas market season — especially weekends. Although the rides are rather short in duration, it’s nice to relax with a coffee and pastry rather than jockeying for a seat.
If you go, make hotel or apartment reservations as soon as possible. I can personally recommend a very nice affordable hotel brand with locations across Austria and Europe. Check out MotelOne.
Why I Dig this Deal:
These prices are sure to get you in the Christmas spirit!