A Guide to Vienna's Enchanting Christmas Markets

Vienna, with its imperial charm and stunning architecture, transforms into a magical winter wonderland during the holiday season. From mid-November to late December, the city's most beautiful squares come alive with traditional Christmas markets, known as Weihnachtsmärkte. These markets offer a festive atmosphere, local crafts, and delicious seasonal treats.

Top Christmas Markets in Vienna

1. Christmas World at the City Hall (Wiener Weihnachtstraum)
Location: Rathausplatz
Dates: November 15 to December 24
Hours: 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM (closes at 7:00 PM on December 24)

The largest and most popular market in Vienna, featuring over 150 stalls, a 3,000 m² ice skating rink, and a magnificent backdrop of the illuminated Rathaus. Known for its wide variety of traditional Viennese foods and beautiful decorations.

2. Stephansplatz Christmas Market
Location: Stephansplatz
Dates: November 15 to December 26
Hours: 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM (reduced hours on Dec 24-26)

Set against the backdrop of St. Stephen's Cathedral, this market offers high-quality Austrian products from over 40 stalls. It's an excellent spot for people-watching and enjoying mulled wine.

3. Christmas Village at Belvedere Palace
Location: Prinz Eugen-Strasse 27
Dates: November 22 to December 31
Hours: 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM (varying hours on special dates)

A romantic setting featuring handcrafts and culinary delights with the stunning Baroque Belvedere Palace as a backdrop.

4. Art Advent Karlsplatz
Location: Karlsplatz
Dates: November 22 to December 23
Hours: 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM

Known for its focus on organic food and handicrafts by local artists. Features a petting zoo, making it ideal for families.

5. Christmas Village Maria-Theresien Platz
Location: Maria-Theresien-Platz
Dates: November 20, 2019 to January 6, 2020
Hours: 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM (varying hours on special dates)

One of the largest markets, offering a wide range of gift ideas and culinary delights. Uniquely, it transforms into a New Year's Village after December 27.

6. Schönbrunn Palace Christmas Market
Location: Schönbrunn Palace
Dates: November 23, 2019 to January 5, 2020
Hours: 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM (reduced hours after Christmas)

Set against the imperial backdrop of Schönbrunn Palace, this market is particularly magical when illuminated in the evening.

Other Notable Markets:

• Am Hof Advent Market: Known for quality artisan gifts
• Old Viennese Christmas Market (Altwiener Christkindlmarkt): One of the oldest and most authentic markets
• Christmas Village Altes AKH: Great for families with children's activities
• Spittelberg Christmas Market: Popular among locals, spread across charming cobblestone streets
• Winter Market Riesenradplatz: Located in the Prater amusement park
• Winter at Museumsquartier: A more modern take on the Christmas market concept

Traditional Foods and Drinks to Try:

• Glühwein (mulled wine)
• Bratwurst
• Pretzels with various fillings
• Nusstangerl (glazed pastry with hazelnuts)
• Mohnzelten (poppy seed pastry)
• Lebkuchen (gingerbread cookies)
• Maroni (roasted chestnuts)
• Krapfen (filled doughnuts)

Tips for Visitors:

• Most markets open mid-November and close on December 23 or 24, with some continuing into early January.
• For the fullest experience, visit after November 20 when all markets are open.
• Evenings tend to be more crowded but also more atmospheric.
• Many markets offer unique mugs for Glühwein - you can keep these as souvenirs.
• Combine market visits with other winter activities like concerts, spa visits, or palace tours.

Vienna's Christmas markets offer a perfect blend of tradition, culinary delights, and festive atmosphere, making the city a truly magical destination during the holiday season.