Visiting the best Vienna Christmas markets in Austria.
As I was wandering down the grand streets of Vienna, random Christmas decorations were increasing the elegance and grandeur of the shop fronts…
Then I arrived at the famous Christkindlmarkt… A winter wonderland!
A festive magic swirls throughout Europe in the Christmas market season and Vienna is no exception. The charming Austrian capital is known for its enchanting Christmas markets, where visitors can enjoy festive treats, handmade crafts, and a lively weekend.
The grand city is fully immersed into Xmas as the whole city is decorated with Christmas trees, lights and some impressive ribbons on the front of famous shops and restaurants.
You are guaranteed a special Christmas getaway!
This blog will detail visiting information about one of the best European Christmas markets, which will give you all the that final push to book your winter getaway!
The famous Christkindlmarkt in Vienna.
Introduction to Vienna's best Christmas markets.
Vienna's Christmas markets are a beloved tradition that draws visitors from all over the world. With the merry atmosphere, festive music, and scrumptious food and drink, these markets are the perfect way to get into the holiday spirit. From the historic Old Town to the modern Museums Quartier, there's a Christmas market for everyone in Vienna. So wrap up, grab a mug of glühwein, or delicious hot chocolate and go and explore!
The Viennese Christmas markets have a long-standing tradition of Christmas markets, dating back to the Middle Ages. The first documented Christmas market in Vienna took place in 1298, when Emperor Albrecht I granted the city's citizens the right to hold a December market. Over the centuries, the markets have evolved and grown, becoming an integral part of the city's holiday celebrations. Today, Vienna is home to over 20 Christmas markets, each with its own unique atmosphere and offerings. Planning a trip to the Austrian capital at Christmas time is a great way to fill out your Austria itinerary with plenty of exciting activities.
Vienna has a festive charm throughout the city.
Dates and locations of the markets.
When do the Vienna Christmas markets start?
The dates of Vienna's Christmas markets in 2023 are from 11th November until 26th December. Each market has its own start date, so to make sure you get the exact dates you can check out Visiting Vienna in advance.
Tip: Arrive at lunchtime/early afternoon to avoid the crowds and queues.
The markets are open daily, with most opening around 10:00 am and closing around 9:00 pm
What are the locations of the Vienna Christmas markets?
Vienna is a grand city with many historical areas, so the city ensures there is plenty of festive cheer to go around with several impressive markets. Some of the most famous Xmas markets in the Austrian capital are:
Christkindlmarkt on the Rathausplatz (Town Hall Square Christmas Market).
Located in front of Vienna's beautiful City Hall, the Christkindlmarkt is one of the most popular and traditional markets in Vienna, and was first on my list as I spent the day exploring the different markets. With over 100 stalls, this market has something for all different types of locals/visitors. You'll find everything from children’s fairground rides, souvenirs and crafts, to traditional Austrian food and drink. One of the highlights of this market is the ice-skating rink, which is open to the public and offers a fun and festive activity for all ages.
Belvedere Palace Christmas Market.
For a more elegant and refined Christmas market experience, head to the Belvedere Palace Christmas Market. Set against the backdrop of a stunning Baroque Palace, this market is known for its highly romantic setting. I recommend enjoying a mulled wine, whilst admiring the stunning Austrian palace. For the art lovers, there is an opportunity to visit the palace art exhibitions, along with purchasing some handmade crafts. The sight of the magical palace lit up at night with Christmas lights is worth its weight in gold.
A quiet lunchtime at the Belvedere Palace Christmas markets.
Weihnachtsmarkt am Spittelberg.
The Weihnachtsmarkt am Spittelberg is street based and located in the picturesque Spittelberg district. Vienna is such a large city, you never know what you are going to find when you turn each corner. I stumbled across this market, and really enjoyed the vibes. Bars, restaurants and cafes surround the market to provide the perfect Vienna location for some entertainment.
Wintermarkt am Riesenradplatz.
The Wintermarkt am Riesenradplatz is located at the base of the Giant Ferris Wheel, which lights up the Viennese skyline at night. This market has fewer stalls but the ones that are there are mainly food and drink stalls, so it is still worth checking out.
Another festive themed building in Vienna City Centre.
If European Christmas markets are your thing, check out Bratislava’s. Another great European city full of local charm and an array of activities.
Both can be visited in one trip, for the perfect festive getaway!
Exploring the Karlskirche Christmas markets in Vienna.
What to expect at the markets.
Large quantities of beautiful food is the first thing that comes to my mind when I think back to my visit. The aroma’s of the different street food stalls circulate the grand city and leave you with no choice but to stuff your face!
Most of the markets are very similar, so it depends how much you like festivities as to how many of them you decide to explore. The crowds can get too much for some visitors and the markets were very crowded (I visited the first weekend in December).
The Austrian capital is huge so it can take some considerable time to visit the different markets, alongside some of the other popular attractions, however, two days for a first time visitor to Vienna will cover the best markets.
I would advise to choose two of the markets and spend some considerable time at each to feel the vibe and get among the atmosphere. My favourite one was the main Christkindlmarkt, as it has everything you need from a Christmas market. I particularly enjoyed a festive latte, and got to keep the cup as a souvenir, however, they were about €10 a drink.
A lot to explore in the many festive stalls.
Must try foods and drinks.
As a lover of different cuisines, the first thing I do in a new country is to try the local delicacies, and thee is no better place to sample new foods than the Christmas market street food stalls. Some traditional Austrian food/drinks you do not want to miss include:
Bratwurst
A traditional Austrian sausage that's often served grilled on a bun. Add a nice bit of curry sauce for the perfect street food snack.
Glühwein.
A hot, spiced wine (mulled) that's a common choice at every Xmas market throughout Vienna.
Lebkuchen.
These beautiful sweet snacks are gingerbread-like cookies which are often decorated with icing or chocolate.
Maroni.
You can’t go to a Christmas market without trying some roasted chestnuts. These can be found at all of the markets in Vienna.
Kaiserschmarrn.
A shredded pancake that's often served with sweet fruit.
Krapfen.
Austria’s version of doughnuts but without the hole. They are usually filled with jam or chocolate spread, and have a sprinkling of sugar on top.
Each market has its own unique offerings, so be sure to explore and try a little bit of everything. Just be prepared to leave with a full stomach and a happy heart.
Vienna City hall is the famous backdrop of the main Christmas markets.
Tips for navigating the crowds and getting the most out of your visit.
Here are a few tips to help you navigate Vienna's Christmas markets and experience the best that the charming Austrian city has to offer.
Make the most of Vienna’s impressive public transportation.
Vienna's Christmas markets are spread out across the city, but they're easily accessible by public transportation. The city's metro system is efficient and easy to use, and there are several stations located near the most popular markets. You can also take a tram or a bus to get around the city.
There is an impressive tram network in Vienna.
Dress warmly.
Due to Vienna’s location, it can get very cold at winter time, so make sure you wear several layers, and definitely grab a coffee to warm up. I wore a warm coat, hat, and gloves, but was still chilly at times - so be prepared!
Carry a little bit of pocket cash.
Although most vendors and street stalls accept card payments, it's always a good idea to have cash on hand for purchases. It always comes in handy around the city as you usually have to pay to use the public toilets in and around the markets.
Arrive early.
Some people love crowds, especially when the festive atmosphere is circulating, however, if you prefer to not have to queue or dodge other visitors than arriving early can greatly improve your festive experience. On weekends it can get extremely busy, especially at the main tourist hotspots.
Wear comfortable shoes.
If you want to visit all the Christmas market highlights, then it is likely you will do some significant walking. I managed to do over 30,000 steps the day I explored Vienna’s Xmas markets.
The iconic Karlskirche in Vienna.
Vienna Christmas market review.
Vienna's Christmas markets are a truly magical experience, and contribute towards Vienna being one of the best European winter destinations.
From the traditional charm of the Christkindlmarkt to the modern delights of the Karlsplatz Christmas Market, there's something for all types of visitors in the city, with the winter wonderland offering couples vibes, and a great location for a romantic getaway.
So grab a warm drink, bundle up, and get ready to discover the enchanting locations of Vienna's Christmas markets.
On my trip to Vienna, I made sure I had an action packed itinerary and visited many other interesting places throughout the city, alongside the famous Xmas markets.
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