The Christmas season is a magical time in Vienna, Austria. The city is filled with sparkling lights, festive window diplays and open Christmas markets which are held on various squares. The Christmas markets are a place for socializing, meeting friends for a "Glühwein" and shopping for handmade gifts. After the stores close, window shopping with the well light windows begins. One never tires of the walking down historical streets, looking into the inviting windows. By law, the stores are required to place the prices of merchandise in the display, so it can really be a productive shopping experience where you are able to return the next day and purchase an item that you saw the night before. Stores are closed on Sundays too, even in December, so window shopping is almost a hobby for some people. The most enticing season is definately at Christmas, with the lights hanging from above, covering the streets and you have the feeling of being in a magical winter wonderland!
The magical Christmas lights above the "Kohlmarkt" in Vienna!
The lovely new "Golden Triangle", home to many luxury stores and boutiques...! Christmas ornaments are hanging in the trees, below the lights...!
The "Kirche" (church) on the "Am Hof" Square is beautify lit at night and can be easily viewed while at the Christmas Market. The gothic church dates back to the 14th century...!
Window from, Demel, the K. und K. Hofzuckerbäcker, (Imperial and Royal) confectionary.
The "Christmas Cookies" window from, Demel, the K. und K. Hofzuckerbäcker, (Imperial and Royal) bakery, that provided sweets for even, "Sissi", Empress Elizabeth of Austria, and are still some of the most delectable in the world! Demel confectionary items were also available in New York at the Plaza Hotel, however they are moving to a new location and are now only available on-line at newyork@demel.com.
On the way to meet friends, following a stroll down the Kohlmarkt, past Loro Piana, Gucci, Ferragamo, Fendi, Christian Dior and Massimo Dutti to name a few...!
Entering the Hofburg Palace with a Christmas Market in front. It is worth noting that there are Roman ruins on this side of the Market... Yes, Vienna is filled with history!
The Euro prices are listed for merchandise which is displayed in the "Auslage" (display window).
The magnificent Park Hyatt has a Christmas market on its doorstep! The "Am Hof" Advent Market is popular with locals and when the outside market is too chilly, it is convienent to move to the hotel lounge or the Park Hyatt's exclusive Whiskey Bar.