5 Christmas Markets You Have to Visit in Vienna
Not sure how it is where you are from, but here in Austria we looooove Christmas. Not just because our country is still predominantly of catholic faith but also because they are simply AMAZING. They put you in a merry mood, force you to go out and meet friends and loved ones ofer a wonderful mug of mulled wine and a delicious steaming plate of Kaiserschmarrn, and you can even get some of your Christmas shopping done! Because of all these reasons, Vienna is now full of beautiful, sparkling, bustling Christmas markets, to the point where it can get a little confusing. Over 10 (TEN) large markets and many little ones in between - where to go? Which ones to favor? Which ones to ignore? Fret not, we’re here to help. Check out our personal favorites below and start there - we promise you won’t regret it. Fröhliche Weihnacht, überall!
But first, a quick word on opening times: Be aware that traditionally, most Christmas markets in Vienna open fairly early (by mid-November!) but close right after Christmas; so if you plan to be in town over the holidays, be sure to check them out rather sooner than later as they might be gone by Dec 26. This list featuring all opening dates and times comes in handy for sure.
This one is always our go-to. The beautiful setup in front of the baroque Karlskirche is an impressive sight, the whole area is adorned with string lights and while this market is super central it’s not too crowded. Bonus: It’s great for kids! The market comes with a play area filled with hay and a small petting zoo. The vendors are all specifically chosen by a panel to represent designers showing their mostly unique and handmade arts and crafts. Plus: all food served there are 100% organic! A great source for souvenirs and thus also the market where many locals like to shop for Christmas gifts as well.
Christmas Market at Schönbrunn Palace
Chances are, you have plans to visit Schönbrunn Palace anyway. If so, be sure to arrive either a little earlier than planned to beat the crowds and wander around the 80 different stalls of their Christmas market. A magnificent Christmas tree makes for great photo opps, and if you wish to experience the musical side of Vienna as well, this is your place to be: WIth FREE outdoor concerts taking place every day at 6pm, this will make for a truly magical experience. It’s a little OTT for sure, but isn’t that also what Christmas in Vienna should be about?
Christmas Market on Spittelberg
Another locals’ favorite, this one features many beautiful stalls in tiny little cobblestone streets of Vienna’s artsy 7th district. Not the easiest to navigate, but incredibly charming and full of hidden gems. Some of the best mulled wine in the city can be had here! Be sure to check into some of the courtyards, often hidden from the outside - there’s so much to explore here.
Old Viennese Christmas Market on Freyung
If you like things a bit more traditionally, this is the one for you. Dating back to 1772, this Christmas market is one of the oldest ones world-wide, and thus likes to present some good old-fashioned charm with antique handicrafts, glass decorations, traditional mangers and ceramics. Plus: If you arrive in the afternoon, festive Advent music can be heard on the square from 4.00 pm.
Wiener Weihnachtstraum - Vienna Christmas World at Rathausplatz
OK, hear us out on this one: In the past, the Christmas market in front of Vienna’s beautiful city hall was not only incredibly crowded but also full of cheap “Made in China” knock offs and overpriced food. We returned in the last two years only to be pleasantly surprised: Stalls with authentic, locally made high quality crafts, delicious food souvenirs from cured meat to traditional jams and of course, an amazing ice skating rink which winds through the park in front of the hall, through magically decorated trees. Yes, it’s a lot (it has been described to us by guests as “Disney on cocaine”) but if this doesn’t put you in a Christmas mood, nothing will. Plus, for kids there’s a wonderful area (indoors and heated!) where for a small fee they can bake cookies and do crafts. Austria’s version of Santa Claus, the Christkind, will also be there. Our advice: Come early, ideally right when it opens - even though you might not get to experience the full effect with all the lights on at night, you will definitely have more time and space to look around and get into a merry spirit.
Special tip: By now, pretty much every Christmas market has their own custom mug which you have to pay a little extra fee for when you get a drink. When you bring back the mug, you get the money back - or you simply take it home with you as a nice reminder or cute gift for a loved one.
