Charming Advent markets, tower music, Advent concerts and children's programs attract visitors to the loveliest spots along the Danube. In the three Danube regions Wachau-Nibelungengau-Krems Valley, Kamp Valley-Wagram-Tulln Danube Area and Römerland Carnuntum-Marchfeld, the local hotels and inns treat holidaymakers to a Advent season both peaceful and romantic.
The Wachau, a World Heritage landscape, is a perfect setting for Advent and Advent markets along with excursions and concerts. In the summertime, vineyards and orchards bloom gloriously along this stretch of the Danube Valley. When winter rolls around, nature and the locals enjoy a well-deserved break. Castles, monasteries and fortress ruins set in a spectacular landscape set just the right mood for Christmas.
Redletter Dates during Advent
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Wachau in Real Time
Once again, the Austrian actress Ursula Strauss is presenting her program "Wachau in Real Time" between October and November. She always manages to attract superb artists to the Wachau to take part in her exciting programs in late autumn. Dates in 2025: Oct 24-Nov 29
The ruins of Aggstein Castle are perched 300 m above the south bank of the Danube on a rock outcropping falling off sharply on three sides. The views of the Danube Valley are stunning. The season culminates at Aggstein Castle with an incomparable handicraft Christmas market featuring more than 50 exhibitors. Dates in 2025: Nov 7-9, Nov 14-16, Nov 21-23
This 800 year-old castle with its unique 17c wooden coffered ceiling is perched majestically on a mighty cliff. The HOBBY AND ART ADVENT at Schloss Leiben in November is a beloved local tradition. Dates in 2025: Nov 8./9., 15./16. & 22./23.
Set against a magical and unique backdrop, the Melk Advent Village once again welcomes visitors on all four weekends in Advent. Besides classics like roasted chestnuts and hot punch, this market has a wonderful lineup of music for an added acoustical treat. Dates in 2025: Nov 28-Dec 21
The Advent spirit is probably nowhere as magical as in the baroque Benedictine Abbey of Göttweig. Known as Austria's Montecassino because of its hilltop location, the abbey offers an extensive Advent program. Dates in 2025: Nov 28 - Dec 8
The romantic courtyard of Schloss Dürnstein, one of the most renowned hotels in the Wachau, is the venue of a superb Advent market full of Christmas cheer. On two weekends in December, the market features mulled wine, a host of gift ideas, Christmas trees and much more. Dates in 2025: Nov 21-23, Nov 28-30, Dec 5-8 and Dec 12-14
Enjoy an Advent weekend in Maria Taferl with a splendid view of the Danube Valley. The picturesque square in front of Maria Taferl Basilica affords a grand view of the Danube Valley, the hill country of the Mostviertel and beyond to the Alps. Artisans present their works in the parsonage cellar while Advent booths with culinary delights plus music and readings await visitors on the square in front of the church. Dates in 2025: Nov 28-30
