What will the Advent markets be like in Villach? Program and important information in one place

The city of Villach is known primarily as an important transport hub and spa resort.

Why is it worth visiting during Advent?

The Christmas Markets in Villach combine Austrian, Italian, and Slovenian traditions.

What are they planning this year?

The Christmas Markets in Villach

The Christmas Markets in Villach may not be the most famous in Austria, but if you decide to visit, you will be pleasantly surprised by their size and diversity. There are many stalls, an interesting program, and a beautifully decorated city center.

Christmas Markets in the City Center

What can you look forward to?

• impressive Christmas decorations
• numerous stalls with a wide range of products
• Christmas train
• ice skating rink

When and where does everything take place?

Villach Advent Market Program

This year, Villach will again be transformed into a Christmas wonderland that will brighten the eyes of young and old alike. A mixture of chestnuts, gingerbread, and punch will float in the air. The Rathausplatz Square will once again be transformed into a glittering ice rink that will be open until February 2025.

Various performances by choirs and ensembles will certainly help to create the perfect pre-Christmas atmosphere. The Christmas markets in Villach can be found at three locations in the city center, each with its own unique character and all connected by a Christmas train.

Marktadvent Stadtpfarrkirche

One of the places you shouldn’t miss when visiting the Villach Advent markets is the parish church Standpfarrkirche and the adjacent Oktoberstraße. You can look forward to several dozen stalls with mostly handicrafts, from woolen hats to tree decorations and nativity scenes to candles, but there will also be a culinary assortment.

Opening hours:

• Monday to Thursday, 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
• Friday and Saturday 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
• Sunday and public holidays 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM

Hüttenadvent Hauptplatz

This square is primarily focused on visitors’ taste buds. The picturesquely decorated cottages invite you to enjoy a variety of savory and sweet snacks and delicious drinks.

Opening hours:

Monday to Thursday 2:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Friday and Saturday 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Sunday and public holidays 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM

Kunstadvent Nikolaiplatz

This Christmas market focuses primarily on arts and crafts and creativity. Visitors can discover unique handmade works of art. This market is open from November 15, 2024, to December 24, 2024.

Opening hours:

• Thursday and Friday 3:00 PM – 8:00 PM
• Saturday, Sunday and public holidays 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM

Interesting places in Villach

The second largest city in Carinthia is famous for its thermal baths and mountains, a historic center full of art and beautiful lakes in the area. When visiting the Advent markets in Villach, it is worth taking the time to take a short walk through its center.

St. James Cathedral

When visiting Villach, you must attend the Cathedral of St. James, the city’s dominant feature. This majestic building was founded as a Roman basilica, later destroyed by an earthquake, and subsequently rebuilt in the Gothic style.

In 1526, Villach Cathedral became the first Protestant church in Austria. Still, at the end of the 16th century, it was converted to Catholic rites under counter-reformation.

As soon as you enter, your attention is immediately drawn to the cross vault and the Rococo main altar. The cathedral’s bell tower is the highest in Carinthia. After climbing 240 steps, you will be rewarded with a beautiful panoramic city view from 308 feet.

Hauptplatz

This elongated square is the city’s heart, from where side streets lead to some of the city’s prominent landmarks. It is surrounded by old merchant houses from the 16th century with beautiful inner courtyards, such as the Alte Post and the Paracelsus Haus, where the famous physician and alchemist Paracelsus once lived. In its center stands the 18th-century Holy Trinity Column.

Conclusion

Villach becomes a charming fairytale destination during the holiday season. The city has beautiful Christmas markets that blend Alpine charm with festive traditions.

Visitors can enjoy the twinkling lights in the main square or relax at the Advent market by the Drau River. You can explore local crafts, taste delicious treats, and feel the warmth of holiday cheer.

Villach’s Christmas markets offer an unforgettable winter experience full of joy and tradition.