The Austrian capital is renowned for its magical Christmas markets with festive spirit, treats and timeless traditions.
For a general Vienna itinerary, click here.
Route Map & Itinerary
Where to Stay
Staying in the city center, Innere Stadt, puts you within walking distance of most markets, including the iconic Rathausplatz Christkindlmarkt.
Booking accommodation in advance is crucial when planning a visit during the festive season. Vienna’s popularity during Christmas means accommodations fill up quickly.
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Day 1: Vienna Christmas Market Part 1
Belvedere Palace Christmas Market
Dates: November 25 – December 31
Times: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Begin your Christmas market adventure with a warm cup of spiced mulled wine; all while admiring the backdrop of Belvedere Palace. This market is known for its emphasis on artisanal craftsmanship. From handmade gifts to intricate decorations, you can expect to find unique treasures that reflect Austrian heritage.
As you explore, be sure to sample traditional Austrian delicacies such as Wiener Schnitzel, Kaiserschmarrn (pancake dessert), and Bratwurst sausages. Live music serenades you throughout, making this a delightful celebration of the best of Austria’s traditions.
Art Advent Christmas Market
Dates: November 24th – December 23rd, 2023
Times: 2:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Next, make your way to the Art Advent Christmas Market, nestled within the courtyards of the Karlskirche. This market combines the classic charm of a Vienna Christmas market with a contemporary twist.
Art Advent Market is a haven for art lovers, featuring unique handcrafted treasures, including jewelry, ceramics, and paintings. If organic items are your thing, Art Advent has loads to explore!
Naschmarkt
Dates: Year-round, but with added festive cheer in December
Times: Daily, 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Naschmarkt operates throughout the year as one of Vienna’s most famous outdoor markets. While not a traditional Christmas market, Naschmarkt turns into a lively holiday bazaar in December. Shop for seasonal produce and sample treats from the Austrian street food stalls.
Spittelberg Christmas Market
Dates: November 25 – December 23
Times: 2:00 PM – 9:00 PM (weekdays), 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM (weekends)
Continue your tour at Spittelberg Christmas Market, where cobblestone streets, courtyards, and historic Biedermeier houses set the stage for a cozy, village-like atmosphere. This market, albeit on the small side, offers a good selection of handmade gifts and traditional Austrian treats.
Maria-Theresien-Platz Christmas Market
Dates: November 22 – December 26
Times: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Maria-Theresien-Plat is a square flanked by the Natural History Museum and the Art History Museum. This market has a well curated selection of vendors offering high-quality crafts and seasonal treats. Join fellow ice skaters on the open-air rink or take an Instagram worthy picture of the illuminated Christmas tree.
Christkindlmarkt – Rathausplatz
Dates: November 12 – December 24
Times: 10:00 AM – 9:30 PM (10:00 PM on Fridays and Saturdays)
It’s now time for the grand finale, Christkindlmarkt at Rathausplatz, in front of the City Hall. This is Vienna’s most iconic and grand Christmas market. With over 150 stalls, it offers an overwhelming array of traditional Christmas decorations, handicrafts, and delicious Austrian foods. There is also an ice rink and illuminated Christmas dispalys against the backdrop of the Rathaus.
Day 2: Vienna Christmas Market Part 2
Hofburg Palace & Michaelerplatz Christmas Market
Dates: November 20 – December 31
Times: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Hofburg Palace sets the stage for this market, complete with a splendid ice skating rink and cultural displays within the palace.
Right outside, Michaelerplatz transforms into a Christmas wonderland, adorned with festive decorations. Numerous stalls offer handcrafted treasures and the air is filled with the scents of roasted chestnuts and mulled wine.
Graben
Dates: Year-round, but with added festive cheer in December
Times: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Continue your adventures with a leisurely walk along Graben, one of Vienna’s famous streets. The shops and boutiques along this boulevard showcase their seasonal collections, making it an ideal spot for Christmas shopping. Look out for extravagant window displays and decorative lights.
Stephansplatz Christmas Market
Dates: November 15 – December 26
Times: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
The Stephansplatz Christmas Market takes its name from its position at the base of the iconic St. Stephen’s Cathedral. Visit at the right time, and you’ll enjoy enchanting choir performances that provide the perfect seasonal soundtrack.
Take a moment to step inside St. Stephen’s Cathedral for a brief period of reflection.
Am Hof Christmas Market
Dates: November 17 – December 23
Times: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
As the day ends, conclude your tour at the Am Hof Christmas Market. This market is a hidden gem, nestled in a quiet square framed by charming townhouses. Although small, there is enough variety to keep you entertained here for about 30 minutes.
The Chat
Kat: Before I went to Vienna, I had heard that they had the best Christmas Markets.
Sim: In all of Europe?
Kat: Yup, it kept on coming up in all my research. So I went with really high expectations.
Sim: And?
Kat: I have to give that title to Berlin.
Sim: Oops. What is the big deal with Christmas Markets anyways? Personally, the idea of strolling through the cold isn’t my cup of tea.
Kat: You just have to go prepared. It’s fun walking about with thick gloves and warm alcohol.
Sim: So walking around drinking warm alcohol is the most memorable part?
Kat: No, not that. The street buskers randomly bursting into song.
Sim: I can experience that in Brixton.
Kat: Ok, I pick the glass ornaments instead. And the nativity scenes.
Sim: Are these for sale? Or just displays?
Kat: Ornaments were for sale. I doubt the nativity scenes were because they were massive.
Sim: Christmas markets, to me, have a big culture of consumerism. I associate them with buying things. Can you go to a Christmas market and not spend money? Just walk around, look at things and go back home?
Kat: Yes, especially if you enjoy people watching. I don’t think I’ve spent money in every single Christmas Market I’ve been to. I like to go and see how excited people are.
Sim: What are some of the things that you have bought?
Kat: Food!
Sim: Haha, not gifts?
Kat: I’ve come across some incredibly unique items. If you’re into handcrafted or genuine leather goods, you’re in for a treat. It’s less about commercialized products and more about craftsmanship.
Sim: And is the food tasty?
Kat: Are we talking about Vienna?
Sim: Well it is a Vienna Christmas Market Special.
Kat: Most of it is on the pricey side. You can’t really go wrong with punch or mulled wine though. Also, these markets are eco-conscious and avoid plastic use, so you’ll need to rent a mug. Don’t forget to return it to get your deposit back, or you can keep it as a souvenir. Essentially, for your first drink, you’re covering the cost of the mug, and refills are more affordable.
Sim: Last question. What is the one must-do Christmas market inVienna?
Kat: Definitely Christkindlmarkt. There’s something for everyone – fairs, children’s playgrounds, Instagram spots, ice-skating, food stalls, craft stalls etc.
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