Christmas markets in Vienna continue to be the hype for most winter travellers. But what if your festive spirit thrives more on off-path revelations and neighbourhood bliss? Here are seven under-the-radar spots that celebrate Christmas in a different way. (For all other local distractions, visit my collection of What to do in Vienna)…

If you visit Vienna for the first time and are keen to get under its skin you face a challenge: a mountain of 'must-sees' that over the centuries have cemented the rock solid stereotype of the enchanting city of music, cakes and emperors. Should you indulge in it? Or should you smash it by replacing cliched sights with trendy places?

As a native Viennese and frequent traveller back to my hometown, I have had fun doing both: indulging in and smashing Vienna stereotypes. Here is…