Austria - Christmas Magic in Steyr, Linz and Mariazell

The pre-Christmas season is the perfect opportunity to treat employees and business partners to something special. What better way to strengthen team spirit than by gathering at one of Austria’s magical Christmas markets? The winter destinations of Steyr, Linz, and Mariazell offer not only atmospheric Christmas markets but also exclusive event locations and diverse programs for festive corporate gatherings and MICE events. Discover how the unique settings and offerings in these regions can transform your Christmas party or corporate event into an unforgettable experience.

In this blog, we’ll introduce you to the winter highlights and event locations of these destinations – read on and get inspired!

Steyr

Visit the City of the Christ Child

© Leutner

Steyr is the perfect place for a festive corporate event in the pre-Christmas season. The beautifully decorated old town and the enchanting Christmas market provide a unique backdrop for atmospheric Christmas parties and team-building activities. Known as the “Home of the Christ Child”, Steyr charms with the legend of Ferdinand Sertl, who placed a wax Christ child in a tree over 300 years ago and found healing. Today, the Baroque Pilgrimage Church in Christkindl serves as the cultural heart of the region and is accompanied by the famous Christkindl Special Post Office, which sends over two million letters worldwide each year, each stamped with a special Christmas postmark.

A highlight includes the Mechanical Nativity Scene with over 200 moving figures, as well as the Pöttmesser Crib, one of the largest nativity scenes in the world. Nostalgic charm awaits visitors with rides on vintage buses or the steam-powered Steyr Valley Museum Railway through the winter landscape. The Christmas markets in Steyr, including Christmas at Lamberg Castle, the Steyrer Nativity Play, and Blacksmith Christmas, offer a festive atmosphere full of tradition and craftsmanship. On the historic town square, the Altstadt Steyr Advent Market delights with its unique charm.

For a cozy overnight stay, harry’s home Steyr offers modern comforts and a central location – ideal for companies looking for a pleasant and hassle-free stay.

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Mariazell

Peaceful Christmas Celebrations in a Picturesque Mountain Landscape

© Tourismusverband Hochsteiermark

Mariazell embodies the essence of a peaceful Christmas season like no other city. The Mariazell Advent, set amidst the stunning mountain backdrop, enchants visitors with its handcrafted stalls, the world’s largest wooden Advent wreath, and the beautifully decorated Basilica. For companies, an exclusive visit outside regular opening hours, combined with a guided tour of the Basilica and a visit to the Treasury, is ideal.

A special highlight is the visit to the Mariazell Lebzelterei Pirker, where the famous gingerbread craftsmanship can be experienced up close and even crafted by hand. The program around the Advent market can be wonderfully complemented with a festive torch-lit hike or a winter excursion into the surrounding nature. Other interesting activities include visiting the Arzberger Liqueur Distillery, the traditional pottery workshop, and the impressive nativity scene exhibition in nearby Mitterbach.

A final dinner in one of the cozy inns such as Hotel 3 Hasen or the AKTIVHOTEL Weisser Hirsch provides the perfect setting for a Christmas or corporate celebration that harmoniously combines authenticity and exclusivity. For convenient, car-free access to Mariazell, the Mariazell Railway departs directly from St. Pölten – an experience in itself that captures the winter spirit from the start.

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Linz

Festive Splendor on the Danube: Culture, Cuisine & Christmas Magic

© Linz Tourism/ Alex Sigalov

The city on the Danube shines with festive splendor, and the numerous Christmas markets and historic ambiance create a special setting for Christmas parties and corporate events. A highlight is the traditional Linz Christmas Market on the Main Square, featuring regional delicacies and high-quality crafts.

For nostalgic moments, the Pöstlingbergbahn takes visitors up the Linz local mountain. The winter view over the snow-covered city, especially in the evening, is a breathtaking experience that fosters festive team spirit. Alternatively, a cruise on the Danube offers a unique way to experience the city’s winter beauty from a new perspective.

The Advent markets in Linz offer a variety of experiences, from traditional craft stalls to culinary delights. The Christmas Market in the Volksgarten is famous for its fairy tale world, enchanting visitors of all ages, while the Winter Market at the Old Town Hall invites you to linger. The Brucknerhaus offers a musical experience of the highest quality, perfect for a festive start to the holiday season. A unique attraction is the Musical Advent Calendar: every day in December until Christmas, a free concert provides a musical escape from the pre-Christmas hustle and bustle.

A flashlight tour of the Mariendom offers groups a unique opportunity to explore the impressive building in a new light. Located in the heart of the city, the Stadtliebe event location is the perfect starting point for a festive evening.

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