According to a survey by consumer group HV Consumer Check with Mindtake Research, 82% of Austrians will attend a Christmas market at least once this year. Each person plans on spending EUR 400 on all Christmas markets combined.

The Christmas market in front of the capital's city hall in Rathausplatz, Vienna is the most visited one in the country, as revealed by the survey. The capital city hosts 3 of the top 5 most popular markets on the list.

Second place was taken by Christkindlmarkt am Dom- und Residenzplatz in Salzburg, just near the main cathedral. The third most visited market takes place in the main square in Hauptplatz, Graz. Weihnactsmarkt am Spittelberg and Schönbrunn Palace are in the fourth and the fifth spots, respectively.

Only 14% of Austrians visit Christmas markets to buy gifts. Most, a whopping 79%, go to enjoy the atmosphere. Over half take it as a chance to meet up with family and friends. Approximately 27% purchase special treats that are only available at a Christmas market.

It is worth noting that Vienna holds 14 Christmas markets in all, which is more than anywhere else in the EU. This makes the capital even more appealing for festive activities with your nearest and dearest.