Advent Highlights in Graz 2026

The Graz Advent markets begin on 20 November 2026 and some of them close on 23 December 2026. The Advent markets on Hauptplatz, in the Franziskanerviertel and on Kleine Neutorgasse, as well as those on Freiheitsplatz, Glockenspielplatz and Mehlplatz, will also remain open on 24 December. Some attractions, such as the ice rink in Graz’s Winterwelt, are open for longer. You can find an overview of the opening times for the individual Advent markets here.

Some of the best Advent highlights in Graz include the world's largest ice nativity scene in the Landhaus courtyard and the 16 Christmas markets in the historic city centre. The Christmas Carols Office and Graz Winter World, with its large ice rink, are also among the city's special festive attractions. Thanks to the short distances between attractions, many highlights can easily be explored on foot.

The famous ice nativity scene is located in the Landhaus courtyard at Herrengasse 16, right in the heart of Graz. In 2026, the ice nativity scene will be officially unveiled on 28 November and can be visited free of charge until Christmas – and sometimes even longer, depending on weather conditions.The Landhaus courtyard is open daily from 8 am to 9 pm. You can find more information about the ice nativity scene in Graz here.

Yes, Graz Winter World, located at the foot of the Schlossberg, transforms the grounds of the Styrian Regional Sports Centre into a lively winter wonderland. With its 3,000 m² ice rink, Advent Paradise and enchanting Winter Lights World, it provides the perfect setting for unforgettable winter experiences. The ice rink is open from mid-November until the end of January. You can find all the details and exact opening hours of Graz Winter World here.

Yes, all Christmas markets and Advent highlights in Graz are located in the city centre and can easily be reached on foot. This is what makes Graz's "Advent within walking distance" so special.

Graz offers numerous underground car parks and parking garages, as well as Park & Ride facilities. However, especially during Advent, we recommend travelling by public transport, as Graz city centre, with its many Christmas markets and Advent highlights, is easily accessible by tram and bus.
Use the Holding Graz route planner to plan your journey to the Christmas markets by public transport. Once you arrive in the city centre, all Christmas markets and Advent highlights are within walking distance.
Tip: Free public transport on Saturdays, 5, 12 and 19 December 2026! On these dates, everyone can travel free of charge within fare zone 101 on all tram and bus routes with one- or two-digit route numbers. Night buses are excluded.

Many Advent attractions in Graz are free to visit. These include the ice nativity scene in the Landhaus courtyard, the illuminated Christmas tree on the Hauptplatz and all 16 Christmas markets. A stroll through the festively decorated historic city centre is also free. Some activities, such as ice skating at Graz Winter World, require an admission fee.

Graz offers plenty of family-friendly activities during Advent. Popular attractions include ice skating at Graz Winter World, the ice nativity scene in the Landhaus courtyard, the Advent train and the fairy-tale forest. Exploring the festively illuminated historic city centre and visiting the Christmas markets are also wonderful experiences for families with children.

Yes, you can easily explore many of the main Advent highlights in Graz in a single day. Thanks to Advent within walking distance, the Christmas markets and numerous attractions are just a few minutes' walk apart. A stroll through the historic city centre can take you to the ice nativity scene in the Landhaus courtyard and the Christmas market on the Hauptplatz. If you have more time, you can also enjoy Christmas shopping, sample Styrian specialities or take a trip up the Schlossberg.

Graz is an ideal destination for a romantic Advent weekend for two. Highlights include strolling through the festively illuminated historic city centre, exploring the Christmas markets and enjoying panoramic views of the city from the Schlossberg. A romantic dinner at one of Graz's Culinary Capital partner restaurants, a cosy café visit or Christmas shopping in the city centre will make your stay even more special. For a longer getaway, an Advent package is a wonderful way to spend an entire weekend in Graz.