WITH Christmas just around the corner, now is the time to book a trip away for a festive break.
One city in Austria is renowned for its Christmas markets and is just two hours and 25 minutes from Ireland.
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Innsbruck is the capital of the western state of Tyrol in Austria, and is known for imperial and modern architecture.
The Nordkette funicular in particular is well-known, with futuristic stations designed by architect Zaha Hadid.
It climbs up to 2,256m from the city centre for skiing in the winter and hiking or mountaineering in warmer months.
But during the Christmas season the entire city changes.
With several Christmas markets and a festive atmosphere, the city comes to life during the season.
In the historic part of Innsbruck, in front of the famous Golden Roof is the Old Town Christmas Market.
Surrounded by beautifully preserved medieval facades, there are a range of stalls selling Christmas ornaments, hand-crafted items, and winter treats.
You can pick up traditional dishes such as Kiachln and a mug of Glühwein (mulled wine) to enjoy as you walk through the market
This market will open on November 15 until December 23, opening daily from 11am to 9pm.
On the main shopping street you will find the Maria Theresien Straße Christmas market, offering a range of must-have presents.
It will open on November 25 until January 6, and is open daily from 11am to 9pm.
On December 24 it will open from 11am to 3pm and on December 31 it will open from 11am to 7pm.
In Marktplatz (Market Square) there is a family market with a carousel, petting zoo, and many other attractions along with stalls selling beautiful gifts and traditional food.
Hungerburg Christmas market is something different to enjoy, as you reach the top by a funicular railway line.
At the top, you will see breathtaking views of Innsbruck and its surroundings, while enjoying culinary delights and a wide range of Christmas souvenirs.
The Advent Market along the river has a gorgeous Swarovski crystal tree, with colourful buildings in the background along an ice-blue river.
For a fun day out, families can attend the Lumagica Innsbruck festive event.
The interactive Christmas light display is set in the Hofgarten in the centre of Innsbruck.
Set along a 1km path, some of the displays are interactive but it’s perfect to brighten up your Instagram.
Ryanair offers flights to Salzburg and you can then take a two-hour train to Innsbruck.
FIVE MORE XMAS SPOTS AT HOME
PUNTERS all across Ireland are set for a magical Christmas season – with a number of festive events to open in just weeks.
Enchanted Kingdom at Slane Castle – The popular concert spot will host the Enchanted Kingdom from November 14 until January 2025.
Visitors can take a one kilometre walk where they will be transported to an immersive winter wonderland with magical creatures, winter snow and stunning lights.
Dublin Zoo Wild Lights – One of the country’s most popular Christmas activities, this year the event’s theme is A Journey Through Time.
People can go and visit immense 3D animals dating back to the age of the dinosaurs, and follow history right up to the present day.
Dublin Winter Lights – The annual winter lights show sees the county’s capital lit up all across its iconic landmarks.
Buildings, bridges, trees, and statues come alive for the festive season as they are flooded with colour.
Waterford Winterval – The event takes place from November 15 until December 23 on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.
It features Santa’s grotto so that little ones can enjoy meeting the man himself, as well as receiving a family photo and a present.
Belfast Christmas market – The capital of Ulster will play host to their annual Christmas market from November 16 until December 22.
The German-inspired market takes place outside Belfast City Hall as the iconic building is lit up for the festive season.
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