Tyrol in Advent: Selected highlights for your vacation

Innsbruck can boast five Christmas markets: there are a total of 195 Christmas stalls on the Nordkette, in Maria-Theresien-Straße, at the market square, and in front of the Golden Roof. Families should also visit the fairytale world that awaits the little ones in the old town. In the Märchen- and Riesengasse, you can admire 28 fairytale figures, watch fairytale performances, and enjoy the Punch and Judy show or the nostalgic carousel. In addition, on December 5, 2014, St. Nicholas will visit the city, and on December 21, you can look forward to the Christ Child, which will parade through the city center of Innsbruck accompanied by 400 children.

Very contemplative is the atmosphere in Rattenberg, the smallest Austrian town. In Rattenberg, the Christmas market is illuminated only with open fire, torches, and candles, and visitors can try numerous culinary specialties, including the Rattenberg Advent wine, which is refined with elderberry flavor. There will also be a light labyrinth on the main stage, with meditative music playing, and performers from the Schlossbergspiele will stage the search for shelter.

The Advent market at the Waldfestplatz in Mayrhofen is also very rustic. Many local businesses serve typical Tyrolean specialties, such as Zillertal donuts filled with gray cheese. In addition, visitors can expect a themed path under the motto "Silent Night," where they can learn a lot of interesting facts about the creation of the famous Christmas carol. The Advent market is also a very special experience for the little ones, as they have the opportunity to bake cookies in the elf bakery or to be part of the procession of St. Nicholas on December 6.

The landing stages Pertisau, Buchau, Gaisalm, and the Scholastika in Achenkirch are brightly lit during Advent and thus form an Advent wreath around the lake. On the first Saturday, the steamer "Stadt Innsbruck" departs from Pertisau and stops at one of the landing stages, where brass bands will play Christmas carols. Then, another landing stage will be visited every weekend. There will also be a small Christmas market on board the ship, offering hot drinks, Christmas treats, or handmade gifts. A pre-Christmas boat trip on Lake Achensee costs 21 euros per person, including a welcome drink.