The capital of Tyrol welcomes Christmas with a calendar of activities, markets and traditions wrapped up in a magical atmosphere.
In the run-up to Christmas, Innsbruck becomes the perfect setting for magical moments surrounded by historic buildings and snow-capped peaks. Like an advent calendar, every day hides a special experience, making Alpine Christmas unforgettable, with Christmas markets, celebrations of traditional customs and magical lights.
The start of the festivities
The Advent calendar begins in Innsbruck on 15 November, when two Christmas markets open their doors: the one in the old town and the one in the market square, accompanied by the Turmbläser, an ancient Christmas tradition in which brass bands play carols from a tower to create a festive atmosphere, promoting music and community spirit for Christmas.
The large Christmas tree in front of the Tejadillo de Oro is lit up on that day, and shortly afterwards, the stalls open, offering original gifts and gastronomic delights. In the narrow streets of the historic centre, you can admire giant fairy-tale characters projected onto the façades of buildings. In the market square, the antique carousel, the puppet theatre and the virtual carriage are part of the Christmas programme every year. In addition, on opening day, all children’s activities are free of charge. On the other hand, the LUMAGICA light park opens its doors on 14 November. Visitors stroll along a path lined with fascinating light sculptures, light shows, sound and laser displays in the Court Garden, located in the heart of the city.
Christmas variety
On 21 November, more Christmas markets are added to the city’s programme, each with its own character, such as St. Nikolaus, located on the other side of the River Inn. Slightly smaller and quieter, this market is ideal for anyone who wants to enjoy the Advent season in a more peaceful and charming atmosphere. On the other hand, the Wiltener Platzl market captivates visitors with its alternative atmosphere, regional cuisine, sustainable products and live music performances. Finally, the Hungerburg market, located at the top of the city, offers local crafts as well as a variety of culinary delights. But above all, what makes it worth visiting is the breathtaking view of the illuminated city.
On 25 November, the magnificent stalls on Maria-Theresien-Straße open, offering selected decorative items and all kinds of handcrafted products. The giant Christmas baubles and illuminated trees on this street create a unique atmosphere. From 28 November, Innsbruck’s historic Christmas tram (Christkindlbahn) will also stop here every Friday and Saturday, giving the area an old-world charm.
Theatrical magic and traditions
Around St. Nicholas’ Day on 6 December, there are many festive and musical events in the Innsbruck region. The second edition of the successful musical Scrooge begins in the town of Telfs, as does the Victorian Christmas market, with traditional costumes, crafts and cheerful carol singers. Meanwhile, in Innsbruck’s old town, characters known as Krampus, typical of East Tyrol, parade through the streets. The next day, the friendly Saint Nicholas arrives, accompanied by angels and musicians, to solemnly make his way to the cathedral. He can also be found at Christmas markets, handing out the odd surprise. On 7 December, the Perchten, mysterious winter figures who, according to legend, drive away evil spirits, make their grand appearance on Maria-Theresien-Straße. On 14 December, music returns with the Tiroler Adventsingen: authentic renditions of traditional Christmas carols, creating a particularly contemplative atmosphere.
Star moments
The closer the big celebration gets, the more solemn the experiences offered by the region become. Thus, on 21 December, the Baby Jesus himself walks through Innsbruck’s old town, accompanied by some 400 children and a small flock of sheep. Two days later, on 23 December, Alpine Christmas in Igls offers the public a magical spectacle with rural charm, featuring a live nativity scene, Christmas music, angels, shepherds and animals. To make the wait until the gifts are handed out more bearable, creative workshops and various activities are held on 24 December as part of the children’s programme ‘Rundum Weihnacht’ (Christmas everywhere) at the Arsenal Museum.
Spectacular finale
The celebrations continue even after Christmas: Innsbruck bids farewell to the year with the famous Bergsilvester (New Year’s Eve in the mountains). The varied programme includes live concerts and children’s entertainment, as well as fireworks at Seegrube, at an altitude of 1,905 metres. In addition, artistic mapping is used to bring the façades of iconic buildings and the River Inn to life with fascinating light shows. And for those who want to start the New Year in style, an excellent plan is to attend the traditional New Year’s concert by the Tyrolean Symphony Orchestra in Innsbruck.
For more information, visit www.innsbruck.info/events/weihnachten.html
About the INNSBRUCK REGION
The Innsbruck region is a unique symbiosis of a vibrant urban space and fascinating Alpine mountains. It extends from the Tyrolean capital to 40 surrounding towns and villages and comprises a total of six regions: the city of Innsbruck, the Inn River Valley, the Kühtai-Sellraintal Valley, the Mieming Plateau, the Southern Region and the Western Region. The city’s wide range of activities and tourist attractions are just a stone’s throw away from numerous sporting adventures and alpine summit ascents. The complimentary Welcome Card is your key to the region’s unlimited diversity: with free use of public transport, you can enjoy numerous attractions in a sustainable and comfortable way, travelling up and down the mountain. For the approximately 100 employees and eleven tourist information offices of Innsbruck Tourism, the well-being of their visitors is paramount. With their enthusiasm and passion for the alpine-urban area, they convey their love for the region and create unforgettable holiday experiences in harmony with people and nature. The Innsbruck region is easily accessible from Spain, whether by road, rail or air. Several airlines offer routes to this destination throughout the year, with stopovers in Vienna or Munich, whose airport is only two hours by road or train from Innsbruck. In addition, during the 2025/26 winter season, Iberia is once again operating a direct route from Madrid to Innsbruck with two weekly flights, on Wednesdays and Sundays.