Vienna’s City Hall is beautiful at night and particularly over the Christmas Market time.
The holiday season has officially begun in Vienna!
From mid-November through December, Vienna transforms into a magical winter wonderland with twinkling lights, festive decorations, and the enticing smells of mulled wine and gingerbread filling the air. It’s the most wonderful time of the year in this charming city.
Vienna has a long, treasured tradition of Christmas markets that dates back centuries. As someone who has had the pleasure of visiting Vienna many times, I can tell you the Christmas markets here are some of the best in Europe. My family and I have celebrated Christmas in Vienna many times and we love it at this time of year!
There are over 20 official markets spread throughout the city, each with their own unique atmosphere and offerings. Browsing the stalls at the different markets is one of my favorite parts of experiencing Vienna during the holidays.
History of Vienna’s Christmas Markets
Vienna’s first documented December Market was in 1298, when Albert I granted permission for markets to be held on the square surrounding Vienna’s St. Stephen’s Cathedral. Over the centuries, these traditional markets expanded, with craftsmen and bakers setting up stalls to sell their wares in the weeks leading up to Christmas.
The modern concept of a dedicated Christkindlmarkt (Christmas market) came about in the late 18th century. In 1776, the first Wiener Christkindlmarkt was held in Freyung Square, featuring candy makers and gift sellers. Over the years, the markets grew in size and popularity, becoming an integral part of celebrating the holiday season in Vienna.
Today, Vienna’s Christmas markets continue the centuries-old tradition, attracting locals and tourists alike to enjoy the sights, sounds, smells, and tastes of the holiday season. Browsing the stalls full of handmade gifts and holiday treats with a mug of mulled wine or hot punch is an essential Vienna winter experience.
When to Visit the Christmas Markets
Most of Vienna’s Christmas markets open in mid-November and run through December 24th or 26th. Here are the typical opening dates:
November 11: Opening of Vienna’s largest and most famous Christmas market in front of City Hall.
November 17: Belvedere Palace and Schönbrunn Palace Christmas markets open.
November 25: Opening day for many more smaller Christmas markets throughout Vienna.
December 23: Most markets close around this date, except for the one at City Hall which runs through New Year’s Day.
I recommend visiting in late November or early December to experience the markets in full swing. The crowds tend to get larger closer to Christmas. But you’ll find each market has its own special charm regardless of when you visit.
If you plan to include Salzburg, Innsbruck, or other Austrian towns on your Christmas market tour, note those markets also open in mid-November but close earlier on December 23rd.
Top Christmas Markets in Vienna
With so many excellent Christmas markets to explore in Vienna, it can be hard to choose which ones to visit! Here are my favorites for the top markets you won’t want to miss:
Christkindlmarkt at Rathausplatz
No Christmas in Vienna is complete without visiting the grand market in front of City Hall. With over 100 vendors, it’s the largest and most famous of Vienna’s Christmas markets. Against the imposing backdrop of the Renaissance-style City Hall building, the market has a magical atmosphere.
The towering Christmas tree glitters with thousands of lights. You’ll find all kinds of traditional ornaments and handmade gifts at the booths. Stop at one of the food stands for sausage, potato pancakes, or baked treats. And be sure to try a mug of the market’s signature spiced wine punch.
The size of this market can make it very crowded at peak times. For a less hectic experience, come on weekdays or early evenings. But whenever you visit, the stunning City Hall setup makes this a must-see.
Schönbrunn Palace Christmas Market
The imperial grounds of Schönbrunn Palace provide a regal backdrop for this Christmas market situated on the grounds in front of the palace with, around, 80 vendors spread across the arena. Wander through the market while admiring the Rococo architecture of the palace. The elegant ambiance makes Schönbrunn one of the more refined and picturesque Vienna Christmas markets.
The crafts at Schönbrunn feature more high-end and handmade pieces with an old-world feel, like glass ornaments and nativity figures. Stop at the bakery stalls for Austrian holiday cookies like vanilla crescents and linzer hearts.
Belvedere Palace Christmas Village
For an imperial market in an intimate setting, head to the Baroque grounds of the Belvedere Palace. Nestled in the walls of the Upper Belvedere palace, this Christmas Village creates a delightful alpine scene. Wooden stalls are clustered on the paths between the palace buildings. The market has a focuses on traditional handicrafts and decorations. Look for nutcrackers, incense smokers, lace angels, and handblown glass ornaments
The Upper Belvedere This Baroque palace was constructed between 1717-1723 and is considered one of the most beautiful buildings in Vienna.
The Belvedere houses several thousand works spanning over nine centuries. Highlights include masterpieces such as “the Kiss” by renowned Austrian artist Gustav Klimt and works by Egon Schiele. Combine the cozy Christmas Village with exploring the Belvedere museums for a festive experience.
Art Advent Christmas Market at Karlskirche
For an artsy, high-quality market, don’t miss the Art Advent Christmas Market located in front of the imposing Karlskirche church. With approximately 80 booths, this market has a focus on arts, crafts, and handmade goods, making it an excellent spot to find unique Christmas gifts.
The Art Advent Market offers a diverse and eco-conscious alternative to the more traditional markets. You’ll find organic mulled wine, vegan food options, and stalls selling sustainable products alongside the standard decorations and treats.
Look for beautiful jewelry, ceramic pieces, glasswork, knitwear, wooden toys, and other handmade items from local artisans. The quality and creativity are a step above typical market wares. The range of crafts and lack of mass-produced goods make it worthwhile for finding special gifts.
The backdrop of the grand baroque Karlskirche, dedicated to Saint Charles Borromeo, provides a lovely setting as you browse. The market’s small size also makes it suitable for families.
The Art Advent Christmas Market at Karlskirche runs from November 24 through December 23, 2023. Located just south of the city center, it’s easy to access by public transport. If seeking quality over quantity, unique artistic finds, and a family-friendly eco-conscious market, this is an excellent choice during your Vienna holiday travels.
Altwiener Christkindlmarkt
To experience an old-fashioned traditional market, head to Freyung Square, site of the first Wiener Christkindlmarkt dating back to 1776. The Altwiener Christkindlmarkt replicates the original look with wood shingle stalls.
Shop for handmade candles, nativity figures, ceramics, knit goods, and great coffee. Listen to choirs and bands perform in front of the neo-Gothic Scottish Church. While kids watch puppet shows, sample punch and seasonal treats as you immerse yourself in Viennese Christmas nostalgia.
Vienna Christmas Market Traditions
Part of the fun is soaking up the festive atmosphere and traditions of the markets. Here are some highlights to look for as you explore:
– Mulled Wine & Punch – Sipping on hot, spiced “glühwein” or “punsch” is essential while strolling between market stalls. Red wine and white wine versions are available.
– Roasted Chestnuts – The aroma of chestnuts roasting over open fires wafts through the markets. Pick up a paper cone full of warm roasted nuts for a classic treat.
– Holiday Treats – Look for Austrian holiday goodies like gingerbread cookies (lebkuchen), nut rolls (baumnusstorte), fruit loaf (stollen), and chocolate marzipan (schokolade marzipan).
– Handcrafted Decorations – Markets boast an array of glass baubles, wood ornaments, wreaths, nativity figures, and holiday décor handmade locally.
– Carolers & Music – Markets on occasion have live musical performances from choirs, brass bands, and other groups filling the air with festive tunes.
– Appearances by Krampus & Saint Nicholas – Keep an eye out for the sinister Krampus creatures and Saint Nicholas spreading cheer.
– Children’s Activities – some markets have carousels, puppet theaters, cookie decorating, and visits with farm animals to amuse kids.
Tips for Visiting the Markets
To make the most of your time exploring Vienna’s Christmas markets, keep these tips in mind:
– Dress warmly – Markets are open-air so come prepared with coats, hats, gloves and warm shoes. Temperatures can get quite chilly!
– Pick your time – Afternoon is prime time so go early morning or early evening to beat the biggest crowds. Weekdays are less busy too.
– Have cash – Some vendors may not accept credit cards, so carry cash for food, drinks and purchases. ATMs are available but check for fees.
– Bring your own mug – Some markets sell collectible mugs but you can also bring your own to cut down on waste. Deposits are usually be required on mugs. But they also make nice souvenirs.
– Sample an array of punsch drinks – Don’t just stick to glühwein, part of the fun is trying all the different flavored punsch wines and non-alcoholic versions.
– Fill up on snacks – Grab a bratwurst, potato pancakes, waffles, chestnuts or doughnuts to fuel your market explorations.
– See multiple markets – Each has its own vibe so visit different ones in various neighborhoods for the full experience.
– Combine with museum visits – Markets at the Belvedere, Schönbrunn and MuseumsQuartier can be paired with checking out the museums.
– See the lighting displays – Many landmarks like City Hall, Schönbrunn and the Ringstrasse are specially illuminated.
– Check opening dates/times – These vary so verify schedules if visiting specific markets. Most open at 10 am and close around 9 pm.
Vienna’s Christmas markets capture all the magic and charm of the season. I hope these tips help you plan an unforgettable winter break experiencing Vienna’s holiday markets, palaces, museums, concerts, and festive atmosphere. The enchanting Christmas markets set against Vienna’s lavish architecture make it one of the world’s best places to celebrate this time of year. Let me know if you have any other questions to help you get ready for this wonderful tradition!
This was an amazing read! I feel like I escaped !! I added this to my bucket list!
This was an amazing read! I feel like I escaped !! I added this to my bucket list! Thanks!