Last Updated on October 19, 2023 by gregor
A visit to a Christmas market is a must when spending time in Vienna during the holidays. There are several Christmas markets located throughout the city, each with its own unique atmosphere. From the traditional Christmas market at Rathausplatz to the more modern market at Karlsplatz, there is something for everyone. Be sure to try some of the traditional Austrian foods and drinks available at the markets, such as Glühwein (mulled wine), Christstollen (fruitcake), and Schneeballen (fried pastry balls).
If you love Christmas, then Vienna is the ultimate place to be around during the holiday season, as there are many markets that you can explore right until Christmas day, meaning you will be breathing in the Holiday cheer for more than a month even before Christmas.
What’s a Christmas market?
A Christmas market is a special event, usually held in the weeks leading up to Christmas, where people can buy decorations, punch, crafts, and other festive items. Many Christmas markets have a baroque or Viennese theme, and traditional jewelry and nativity scenes are often on sale. Christmas markets in Vienna are top-rated, and the atmosphere in the squares where they are held is electric with excitement and anticipation of the holiday. Visitors to Vienna’s Christmas markets can enjoy a drink while they browse the stalls for the perfect gift, and soak up the unique atmosphere that only these markets can provide. In short, a Christmas market is a special event where people can buy Christmas-related items and gifts. Christmas markets are typically held in town squares or public areas, and they usually take place during the weeks leading up to Christmas.
Why Visit Vienna for Christmas Markets?
There are few places in the world as charming as Vienna during Christmas time. The city comes alive with festive markets, twinkling lights, and holiday cheer. A visit to Vienna during Christmas is a truly magical experience.
The Christmas markets in Vienna are some of the most beautiful in the world. They offer a wide variety of traditional Austrian goods, including handmade gifts, Christmas decorations, and delicious food. The atmosphere at the markets is warm and inviting, making them the perfect place to spend an afternoon or evening.
In addition to the markets, Vienna is also home to many other festive attractions during Christmas Time. The city is decked out in lights and decorations, and there are often special events and concerts taking place. This is an ideal time to visit Vienna if you want to experience the true holiday spirit.
Here are the Best Vienna Christmas Markets
Altwiener Christkindlmarkt, Freyung
The market is located in the heart of the city, and maintains a traditional feel, without going too overboard. So you can quietly enjoy all that Christmas has to offer, without letting it get too much to handle. The market offers seasonal decorations, handmade items, bears, and endless options of gifts. So you can easily find something for everyone. As Vienna is known for its food, the market offers excellent traditional dishes, so you can take in the complete experience of shopping, eating, and drinking in a familiar setting, along with seasonal music that will keep your spirits up, and the love for Christmas alive. If you happen to visit the market in the evening, you will be able to see many carol singers accompanied by violins and bugles players.
Altwiener Christkindlmarkt Opening times
From 21 November to 23 December
Daily from 10:00 AM to 09:00 PM
Address: Freyung, 1010 Wien, Austria
www.altwiener-markt.at
more Info and opening hours (CLICK)
Christmas Village, Altes AKH
This is a splendid and traditional Christmas market that is situated on the university campus of the old Vienna hospital. This market highlights the local craftsmen and their work.
As artisans from all around Vienna come together to demonstrate their skills. So you can find anything from candle makers, artwork printing, and bag makers. It is as well a lovely place to get to know the locals and learn more about the city. There are two main rinks where you can sign up for ice curling, and can enjoy a great time with warm food, and fresh drinks. Here you will find a few activities to keep your children entertained.
These include a live show by Punch and Judy every Saturday, along with a merry-go-round, and a choo-choo train. The village is located at the Altes AKH.
Weihnachtsdorf Altes AKH Opening times
From 19 November to 23 December
Daily from 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Address: Alserstrasse/Spitalgasse, Hof 1, 1090 Wien, Austria
more Info and opening hours (CLICK)
Weihnachtsdorf Schloss Belvedere (Upper Belvedere Palace)
Stylish location with elegant flair
A select group of huts has gathered directly in front of the Belvedere Palace. There is enough space between the stalls, and it is not too crowded
Adresse: Prinz Eugen-Straße 27, 1030 Vienna, in front of the Schloss Belvedere Upper Palace – Oberer Teichhof. See the Website
Weihnachtsdorf Schloss Belvedere Opening times
From 20 November to 31 December
Daily from 11:00 AM to 09:00 PM
24th December – from 11:00 AM to 04:00 PM
From 25th to 30th December – 11:00 AM to 07:00 PM
31st December – from 11:00 AM to 06:00 PM
Address: Prinz Eugen-Strasse 27, 1030 Wien, Austria
Spittelberg Christmas Market
The market has become a bit commercial in the last few years, but it is still one of the best Christmas markets in Vienna, as it offers a romantic atmosphere and focused on things such as crafts and local arts. The market is located in the historical Biedermeier quarter where you can admire the great architecture. The main streets where the market is taking place bringing the ultimate Christmas experience are the Gutenberggasse and the Spittelberggasse. Both present a wide range of shopping, but Gutenberggasse street has a great selection of foods, so you can easily indulge in some of the best seasonal cuisines in Vienna. In addition, your children will be able to enjoy a lot of activities, along with adults. So if you are traveling with kids then you should consider the Spittelberg Christmas market.
Weihnachtsmarkt am Spittelberg Opening times
From 19 November to 23 December
Monday – Friday – from 02:00 PM to 09:00 PM
Saturday and Sunday – from 10:00 AM to 09:00 PM
Address: Spittelberggasse, Schrankgasse, Gutenberggasse, 1070 Wien, Austria
www.spittelberg.at
more Info and opening hours (CLICK)
Christmas Market, Schloss Schönbrunn
If you are looking for an elegant Christmas market then this one has the perfect setting. Having the Schönbrunn Palace as its background, it presents the most beautiful and magical scenery. In addition, there is a spectacular Christmas tree that will completely mesmerize you.
The market offers the perfect Christmas touch, with handmade Christmas decorations, and gifts that are made using natural materials. Moreover, there is a complete food and drinks range, that includes warm Christmas cookies, snacks, and mulled wine. So you can easily spend the day taking in all the market has to offer. If you are traveling with kids, then you are in for a treat, as the market has different routines on different dates, you will have to check locally to confirm what is being offered this year, but we assure you it will be enough to keep your kids entertained for days to come.
Weihnachtsmarkt Schloss Schönbrunn Opening times
From 19 November 2022 to 4 January 2023
Daily from 10:00 AM to 09:00 PM
24th December – till 04:00 PM
On 25 and 26 December – till 06:00 PM
Address: Schönbrunn Palace, 1130 Wien, Austria
www.weihnachtsmarkt.co.at
more Info and opening hours (CLICK)
Christmas Word at the City Hall – Christkindlmarkt
It is considered as one of the liveliest Christmas markets in Vienna and helps you get in the perfect Christmas mood. Here you will be able to find dozens of booths, that offer a great range of contemporary and traditional Christmas decorations and gifts.
Viennese Classic Cuisine
In addition to the perfect shopping experience, and the lively crowd, you will find many traditional and classic Viennese cuisine. So you can easily enjoy mulled wine, with hot chestnuts; along with many complete meals to keep you full and happy. So you can keep on adding to the Christmas spirit, and enjoy a beautiful day here at the Christkindlmarkt Rathausplatz.
Moreover, the market offers a great deal for kids, so they too can take part in the ongoing Christmas holiday.
The market is located in front of the City Hall of Vienna.
Wiener Weihnachtstraum Opening times
From 19 November to 26 December
Open daily from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM
24th December – only until 07:00 PM
Address: Rathausplatz, 1010 Wien, Austria
www.wienerweihnachtstraum.at
more Info and opening hours (CLICK)
Weihnachtsmarkt Am Hof
If you are looking for quality artisan gift shops, then the Weihnachtsmarkt Am Hof is the perfect place to visit. Here you will be able to find great deals from ceramics, to delicate jewelry, glassware, leather items, and hats. Along with cosmetics, kitchen accessories, and attractions for kids.
Allowing for a complete and unique experience than most Christmas markets in Vienna. Furthermore, the market is known for its variety of sausages and ham, along with hot baked potatoes, waffles, and gingerbread.
Weihnachtsmarkt Am Hof Opening times
From 19 November to 23 December
Daily from 11:00 AM to 09:00 PM
Address: Am Hof, 1010 Wien, Austria
more Info and opening hours (CLICK)
Weihnachtsmarkt Karlsplatz
The market offers more than seventy booths from local craftsmen and artisans.
They are lined up right in front of the baroque Church of Saint Charles Borromeo.
In addition, the Christmas market features many live concerts on a regular basis. So you can enjoy anything from electronic pop music to harp solos. This market features fire shows, and demonstrates different arts and crafts at the booths. So you can enjoy beautiful ceramics, glass beads, pottery, and Tiffany glass.
The market is located at the Karlsplatz and Resselpark.
Christkindlmarkt am Karlsplatz Opening times
From 20 November to 23 December
Daily from 12:00 PM to 08:00 PM
Address: Karlsplatz, 1040 Wien, Austria
divinaart.at
more Info and opening hours (CLICK)
Adventmarkt Grafenegg
This is a one-day festive market, that has been outshining other Christmas markets for decades now. It is located in the gardens of the Grafenegg Castle. When you are roaming the grounds, you can enjoy quality crafts markets and arts, while listening to Christmas Carols, brass bands, and trumpet fanfares.
In addition, you will be able to try a number of freshly cooked Austrian snacks and cookies. There is a complete range of baking shops, that are simply loved by children. Keep in mind that you will be required to book all the things in advance, so you do not miss out on any experience.
The event is held on the 5th of December each year. Be aware Grafenegg is outside of Vienna, so the best way is to rent a car, travel time is about 45min
more Info and opening hours (CLICK)
Christmas Village, Schloss Hof
This beautiful Christmas Village offers a wonderful and fulfilled Christmas experience. Here you will find a charmingly decorated market that offers handmade knitwear, regional ceramics, and handmade soaps, along with Punsch, Kaiserschmarren, and gingerbread. For children, there is a castle farm, where they can even ride ponies. In addition, there is a Christmas workshop and concert each Saturday night. The dates of this Christmas Village vary each year. Be aware Schloss Hof is outside of Vienna, so the best way is to rent a car, travel time is about 30min
more Info and opening hours (CLICK)
Stallburg (Spanish Riding School)
A remarkably atmospheric, though very small, the market in the main courtyard of the stables of the Spanish Riding School (More information)
Christmas Village on Maria-Theresien-Platz
The Christmas village sits between two impressive buildings, known as the Museum of Art, and the Museum of Natural History. The place is just two minutes away from MQ, and here you will be able to find a splendid Christmas market, that offers tons. In the center of the square, is the imposing statue of the former Austrian monarch. In addition, the market offers decorated stalls, food, drinks, and a great deal of fun.
Weihnachstdorf am Maria Theresien Platz Opening times
From 19 November to 6 January
Daily from 11:00 AM to 09:00 PM
24th December – till 04:00 PM
From 25th December to 6th January – till 07:00 PM
31st December – till 06:00 PM
Address: Maria-Theresien-Platz, 1010 Wien, Austria
more Info and opening hours (CLICK)
It does not matter if you are a Christmas lover or not, as these markets are the perfect space for anyone who loves beautiful and unique things. Here you will be able to enjoy good foods, drinks, and a wide range of shopping goods.
Vienna Christmas Markets Map
Please see all the Vienna Christmas Markets in this MAP – Google MAPs. You can save this MAP to your Google Maps and also download it. (in case you do not have WIFI)
View Christmas Markets in Vienna Austria on a larger map
Top Tips for Visiting Vienna’s Christmas Markets
Pick your favorite Market
There are such huge numbers of various markets in Vienna! Endeavor to visit the ones that have what you need. While they all have stalls with nourishment, Glühwein, and broiled chestnuts, everyone has their own interesting style. Visiting with kids? Unquestionably go to Karlsplatz or AKH. Need a comfortable, bohemian air? Attempt Spittelberg. Searching for a great setting for photographs? The Rathaus or Belvedere Palace is the best.
Visit at the right time
Do you need to stay away from the gigantic group at the well-known markets? At that point come in the morning, or when the business sectors open. Might you want to appreciate the twinkling lights all around? At that point intend to touch base at nightfall, and experience the business sectors during the evening.
Bring Small Cash
Some stands will accept credit cards, yet much only cash.
Traditional food and drink at the Christmas Markets
Make sure to try: Maroni (simmered chestnuts), Kaisekrainer (Sausage with cheddar in the center), Bratwurst (broiled hotdogs), Soup in a Bread Bowl, Pretzels, Kaiserschmarrn, Waffeln (waffles), Lebkuchen (gingerbread), Gebrannte Mandeln (toasted almonds), Bratkartoffel (prepared potatoes), Heisse Bauernkrapfen (hot agriculturist’s doughnuts), Krapfen (filled doughnuts), Glühwein (thought about wine) and Punsch (or Kinder Punsch without liquor).
Mugs as Souvenirs
Glühwein, Punsch, and alternate heavenly beverages at the Christmas Markets come in charming mugs. After you are done with your drink, you can either keep the mug as a souvenir or return it and recover your store. (Ordinarily around €2-4) Each market has its own extraordinary mug, and they are diverse every year.
Visit as much as you can.
Make the rounds and visit the greatest number of markets as you can. I recorded a couple of the greater, more well-known Christmas Markets in Vienna above, yet there are innumerable others that I have not recorded. Investigate the city, and you are certain to discover adorable little markets around each corner.
Dress Warmly
The Christmas Markets are primarily outside, and it can get sharply cold in Vienna in December. Wear loads of layers, including warm base layers, caps, scarves, and gloves on the off chance that you need to remain out for more than a couple of minutes. On the off chance that and when you do get cool, warm up with some hot Glühwein or punch!
Conclusion
The Christmas markets in Vienna are some of the most beautiful and festive in all of Europe. If you’re lucky enough to be in the city during the holidays, be sure to visit at least one of them. Even if you’re not a big fan of shopping, the atmosphere is so magical that it’s impossible not to enjoy yourself. And if you are a fan of shopping, you’ll be in heaven! From traditional Austrian handicrafts to delicious holiday treats, there’s something for everyone at the Christmas markets in Vienna.
Frequently Asked Questions about Christmas Markets
What is the largest Christmas market in Vienna?
Christkindlmarkt in Rathausplatz square in front of the City hall, it is considered the largest Christmas market in Vienna. You will find more than 150 booths, with handmade decorations, Christmas treasures, and delicious foods. Right in the middle, you can admire the huge Christmas tree that is set up using gorgeous fairy lights and ornaments.
What is the most visited Christmas market in Vienna?
Christkindlmarkt in Rathausplatz square in front of the City hall is considered the most visited Christmas market in Vienna.
How to get to Vienna Christmas markets
There are several ways to get to the Vienna Christmas markets. The most common is by car or bus. You can also take the train or fly into the city.
If you are driving, you will need to take the A1 freeway from the south or the A4 freeway from the west. There are several exits that will take you to the city center. Once you are in the center, you can follow the signs to the Christmas markets.
If you are taking the bus, there are several companies that operate services in Vienna. You can check schedules and prices online.
If you are taking the train, you will need to take the suburban train to the city center. From there, you can follow the signs to the Christmas markets.
If you are flying into Vienna, you will need to take the bus or train into the city center. You can also take a taxi, but this will be more expensive.
How many Christmas Markets are there in Vienna?
In Vienna, the Capital of Austria there are more than 25 Christmas Markets
What do buy at Christmas Markets in Austria?
What to Buy at the Christmas Markets in Vienna
When in Vienna during Christmas time, be sure to swing by one of the city’s many Christmas markets! There, you’ll find all sorts of festive goodies, from traditional Austrian decorations to handmade gifts and yummy holiday treats. Here are a few things you definitely don’t want to leave the market without:
An Austrian Christmas Pyramid: These intricately designed wooden pyramids are a must-have Christmastime decoration. They’re typically made with spinning tiers of nutcrackers, Santas, and other holiday figures, and are sure to add a touch of Vienna to your home.
A box of Viennese truffles: No trip to Vienna would be complete without indulging in some of the city’s world-famous chocolate. Pick up a box of truffles from a market stall and enjoy a delicious taste of Vienna.
A set of hand-painted Christmas tree ornaments: These beautiful ornaments make the perfect gift for friends and family back home. They’re also a great way to add a personal touch to your own tree.
A bottle of Glühwein: This sweet, mulled wine is a Christmas market staple. Sip on a cup as you stroll through the market and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
What to eat and drink at the Christmas Markets in Austria?
Visiting Christmas Markets in Vienna you definitely must eat Soup in bread · Potato spirals · Baked potato · Pulled pork – Pretzels – Arancini.
Is there a Christmas Market Food Guide?
Yes please check out this Blog Post: Ultimate Christmas Market Food Guide
What is the Best Christmas Market in Vienna?
Christkindlmarkt in Rathausplatz square in front of the City hall, it is considered the best and most famous Christmas market in Vienna and Austria.
How many days do you need to visit Vienna?
Three days is adequate to see the whole city of Vienna. Three days in Vienna will allow you to get to the top attractions at a reasonable pace and maybe give you a chance to soak in some of the many cultural activities like visiting Vienna’s Museums.
Read More: HOW MANY DAYS DO YOU NEED TO VISIT VIENNA?
Where are the Most Magical Austria Christmas Markets?
There’s something special about Christmas markets in Austria. Maybe it’s the storybook setting of medieval castles and rolling hills or the festive atmosphere created by the twinkling lights and Christmas music. Whatever the reason, these markets are definitely worth a visit.
In Vienna, the Christmas markets are spread out across the city, so you can easily find one no matter where you are. The most popular markets are located around the city center, such as the market at Rathausplatz and the one at Maria-Theresien-Platz. But don’t miss the smaller markets, which often have more unique and local items on offer.
In Salzburg, the Christmas market is centered around the picturesque Cathedral Square. It’s the perfect place to do some holiday shopping or just enjoy the festive atmosphere. And of course, no visit to Salzburg would be complete without stopping by Mozart’s birthplace for a festive concert.
There are also several Christmas markets in Innsbruck, which is nestled in the Tyrolean Alps. The markets here have a more traditional feel, with vendors selling handmade goods and local specialties. Be sure to try some of the delicious baked goods on offer!
No matter which Austrian city you visit, you’re sure to find a magical Christmas market. So start planning your trip today and enjoy all that these festive markets have to offer.
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