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.