Where Locals Go for Christmas: Wolfgangsee Advent Tour
Description
Forget the crowds of Vienna and come along to where Austrians themselves go at Christmas — the magical villages around Lake Wolfgang. Every year in Advent, locals leave the busy streets behind and head to Lake Wolfgang, where Christmas feels like a fairy tale. Each village has its own charm: In St. Gilgen, the market glows with baroque lanterns, Mozart motifs, and elegant stalls. In Strobl, the “Shepherds’ Advent” feels like stepping into a nativity scene, with animals, rustic huts, and twinkling lights by the water. In St. Wolfgang, torches and lanterns shine across the lake, while a giant floating Advent candle glows as the symbol of the season. With your own driver and private guide, you can take it slow — stop for photos, warm up with mulled wine, taste local treats, and shop for unique handmade gifts. This is NOT the usual Hallstatt trip. It’s a more authentic holiday escape, the one Austrians keep for themselves — and now you can experience it too.
Tour Options
Itinerary
Vienna to Hallstatt, about 4h. I'll tell you general information about Austria and Austrian history. We'll do a short stop at a gas station for a restroom, snack, and coffee. We will drive along a picturesque village road, past fascinating mountain views and the beautiful town of Bad Ischl, which for many years was a favorite vacation spot of the imperial family of Austria.
Known as the “Shepherds’ Advent,” Strobl transforms into a living nativity scene with animals, huts, and festive decorations right on the lakefront.
St Wolfgang 3 hours. Christmas in the village of St. Wolfgang is a magical experience set against the backdrop of the Austrian Alps. As the holiday season arrives, the village is adorned with twinkling lights and festive decorations. The central square hosts a charming Christmas market, where you can find handmade crafts, traditional Austrian treats, and mulled wine. The lake itself adds a unique element to the atmosphere, as floating boats adorned with lights create a mesmerizing reflection on the water. People gather by the lakeside to enjoy Christmas carols and to soak in the festive ambiance.
The highlight of Lake Wolfgang: glowing torches, lakeside lanterns, and the famous floating Advent candle shining across the water. An unforgettable holiday scene.
Hallstatt - Vienna, about 3h. Drop off at your hotel. The road back to Vienna, 3h 30min by car On our road, we'll stop once on the highway for visiting the restroom and snacks.
Highlights
What's included
Pickup Locations & Times
On the eve of the tour we will contact you to decide the exact time and place of pickup. We usually meet our guests at the hotel.
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Reviews(1)
Beautiful authentic villages full of charm. Best part of our Vienna trip! Makes we want to return and spend a couple nights I. The summer. The Christmas markets are magical. Jenny and Vlad, our guides were extremely knowledgeable and professional.
It was such a pleasure to host you! We’re glad you enjoyed the Christmas magic and felt well-guided. Thank you for your kind words about our team. We’ll be waiting for your return visit in the summer!
