Revel in the sights and sounds of Vienna’s festive period on a walking tour of 3 of its picturesque Christmas markets, and see Vienna’s prettiest squares transform for the season with the aromas and flavors of winter.

The illuminated buildings of the Ringstraße make a fabulous backdrop for a host of baked goods, hot punch and roasted chestnuts. Go to the Arts and Crafts Market in the shadow of St. Charles Church (Karlskirche). Visit the Old Vienna Christkindl Markt at Freyung, ringed by the city palaces and Schottenkirche. A calmer alternative to the crowds of Rathausplatz, the market provides plenty of opportunities to sample Christmas goodies (at your own expense).

Next, visit the Kingdom of Lights at Rathausplatz, Vienna’s largest Christmas market, with roots that date back to the 18th century. As well as dozens of food stalls, browse the beautiful handmade arts and crafts from Austria and Central Europe. See elaborately decorated Christmas trees in the park, including the Kasperl tree (“Tree of Seals”) and Herzerlbaum (“Tree of Hearts.”)

Along the way you will see festive lights at sights such as the Cathedral, Hofburg Palace, Spanish Riding School and City Hall. Marvel at the decorations of the main shopping boulevards, such as Graben and Kohlmarkt, and catch the strains of Haydn, Mozart and Strauss in the Rathaus every weekend leading up to Christmas.