The 6 Best Vienna Christmas Markets 2024

Do you fancy spicing it up this Christmas by spending it outside the UK? Then you've got to consider Vienna. Often overshadowed by the famous German, French and Belgian Christmas markets, you shouldn't overlook the Vienna Christmas Markets which are widely said to be the most beautiful in Europe. To help you plan the Christmas trip of a lifetime, we've provided you with tons of practical information to make your visit to the Vienna Christmas Markets utterly magical including:

1. The best Christmas markets in Vienna
2. Christmas events and things to do in Vienna
3. Other Christmas markets in Vienna
4. How to get to the Vienna Christmas markets
5. Best hotels in Vienna for Christmas

Planning your trip to the Vienna Christmas Markets 2024

When do Christmas Markets start in Vienna?

The Christmas markets in Vienna typically open around mid-November and run through to Christmas Eve. Some might extend through New Year, so it's worth checking individual market schedules closer to the date.

Where are the Christmas Markets in Vienna?

Vienna boasts several Christmas markets spread throughout the city, each offering a unique atmosphere. Key locations include:

• Rathausplatz (Vienna City Hall) – The most famous market
• Schönbrunn Palace – Perfect for a regal festive experience
• Belvedere Palace – Known for its stunning baroque backdrop
• Maria-Theresien-Platz – Located between two museums
• Spittelberg – A charming, smaller market set in narrow, historic streets

Where is the main Christmas Market in Vienna?

The largest and most iconic market is the Christkindlmarkt at Rathausplatz. It’s located in front of Vienna’s stunning City Hall and is the perfect spot for soaking up the holiday spirit with beautiful lights, festive stalls, and a massive ice-skating rink nearby.

Are Christmas Markets open on Sunday in Vienna?

Yes, the Christmas markets in Vienna are open daily, including Sundays. Generally, the Vienna Christmas markets operate from around 10:00 AM to 9:00 or 10:00 PM, but times can vary slightly depending on the market.

The 6 Best Christmas Markets in Vienna 2024

Vienna has many Christmas markets scattered across the city and its surroundings, but to make things easier, here are our top 6 favourites.

1. Vienna Christmas Market at Rathausplatz

First on our list is the Vienna Christmas Market at Rathausplatz. This market is one of the most famous and traditional in Europe, and has been welcoming visitors since 1975 to enjoy Vienna’s festive charm during Advent. With over 150 stalls offering handcrafted gifts and culinary delights, there’s also a 150 sqm ice rink for children, a Ferris wheel, and brass band concerts. It’s the perfect place to soak up the Christmas spirit with twinkling lights and the scent of gingerbread filling the air.

• What we love: The stunning lights and giant Christmas tree
• Vienna Christkindlmarkt at Rathausplatz opening times: 16th November to 26th December 2024
• Address: Rathausplatz, 1010 Vienna

Did you know? The snow globe, now a classic Christmas decoration, was invented in Vienna. The idea was accidentally discovered by mechanic Erwin Perzy in the late 19th century.

2. Christmas Market at Schönbrunn Palace

Set against the magnificent backdrop of Schönbrunn Palace, this Christmas market combines the grandeur of the imperial residence with festive charm. Since 1994, the Schönbrunn Palace Christmas Market has attracted visitors from all over the world with handcrafted artworks and traditional Christmas decorations. Not only can you find elegant gifts here, but you can also enjoy a cultural programme featuring choirs and brass ensembles. For younger visitors, there are craft workshops where they can create their own festive art, as well as a small ice rink, which is free for children. There’s also a Ferris wheel, a carousel, and a children’s train. After strolling through the stalls, the unique atmosphere is best enjoyed with a cup of punch while admiring the view of the palace.

• What we love: The historic atmosphere and the variety of children's activities
• Schönbrunn Palace Christmas Market Opening Times: 8 November 2024 to 6 January 2025
• Address: Schönbrunn Palace, 1130 Vienna

3. The Spittelberg Christmas Market

Number three on our list of the most beautiful Viennese Christmas markets is the Spittelberg Christmas Market. This market enchants visitors with its charming atmosphere nestled in the historic streets of the Spittelberg quarter. Away from the main tourist crowds, it offers a focus on arts and crafts and regional specialties. Since the 1990s, this market has become a hidden gem for those looking for unique gifts in a cosy setting. You can find handcrafted jewellery, ceramics, and Austrian delicacies at the carefully curated stalls. There's also an extensive programme for children, including an Advent cinema, puppet theatre, and a cookie-baking workshop. This market provides a magical, relaxed way to experience the festive season.

• What we love: Handcrafted items and the alternative, cosy vibe
• Spittelberg Christmas Market Opening Times: 16 November to 23 December 2024
• Address: Spittelberggasse, 1070 Vienna

4. The Old Viennese Christmas Market on Freyung

The Old Viennese Christmas Market on Freyung offers a chance to experience traditional Viennese Christmas magic up close. Established in 1772, this historic market is renowned for its high-quality craftsmanship, offering items such as traditional nativity figures and hand-painted Christmas ornaments. A special highlight is the atmospheric Advent calendar projection, revealing a new window every day. Surrounded by historic buildings, the charm of this market and the accompanying music is truly enchanting.

• What we love: The historic setting and exceptional craftsmanship
• Old Viennese Christmas Market on Freyung Opening Times: 15 November to 23 December 2024
• Address: Freyung, 1010 Vienna

5. The Christmas Village at Maria-Theresien-Platz

Between the Art History Museum and the Natural History Museum lies the Christmas Village at Maria-Theresien-Platz, welcoming you with its festive atmosphere. Since its opening, this Christmas market has delighted visitors with a mix of tradition and modernity. Around 70 stalls offer a wide selection of handicrafts and festive treats. The atmosphere becomes particularly magical when choirs and musical groups perform their festive tunes. Children will also enjoy the experience, with a carousel and various craft activities that stir up excitement for Christmas.

• What we love: The impressive historical backdrop between the two museums and the variety of handmade products
• Christmas Market Maria-Theresien-Platz Opening Dates: 13 November to 26 December 2024
• Address: Maria-Theresien-Platz, 1010 Vienna

6. The Belvedere Christmas Market

The final Vienna Christmas market on our list is the Belvedere Palace Christmas Market. Set against the magnificent backdrop of the Upper Belvedere, this is one of the most elegant Christmas markets in Vienna. Since 2012, the Belvedere Christmas Market has invited visitors to enjoy the festive atmosphere in its baroque surroundings. The focus of this Christmas market is on handicrafts and festive delicacies, with its exquisite products and cultural programme impressing visitors. The view of the illuminated palace makes this market an unforgettable experience, allowing you to feel as though you’ve stepped into a fairytale. A stroll through the Belvedere park, framed by twinkling lights, completes the perfect visit.

• What we love: The impressive backdrop of Belvedere Palace and the festively decorated stalls
• Opening Dates: 15 November - 26 December 2024
• Address: Belvedere Palace, 1030 Vienna

Beyond the Market: What To Do in Vienna at Christmas

Mozart & Strauss at the Kursalon for Christmas

The Christmas Gala at the Kursalon Vienna invites you to a festive evening filled with classical music by Mozart and Strauss, accompanied by a 4-course dinner. In the elegant halls of the historic building, you can experience the true Viennese atmosphere while an orchestra performs the finest works of the two composers. The festively decorated surroundings and the virtuoso performance make this concert a special highlight of the Christmas season.

Advent Concerts at St. Stephen’s Cathedral

The Advent concerts at Vienna’s St. Stephen’s Cathedral are a unique experience that enriches the pre-Christmas season with festive sounds. Within the impressive Gothic architecture of the cathedral, classical works and Christmas melodies resound, immersing you in a contemplative mood. The special acoustics of St. Stephen’s Cathedral and the solemn atmosphere create an unforgettable setting for these musical moments.

New Year’s Concert by the Vienna Philharmonic

The Vienna Philharmonic’s New Year’s Concert is a musical highlight that captivates the world at the start of each year. Every 1st of January, the magnificent concert is broadcast from the Golden Hall of the Musikverein, delighting audiences in over 90 countries. The music of Johann Strauss and his contemporaries provides a festive and lively start to the new year. If you’re lucky enough to attend in person, you’ll experience a unique atmosphere where tradition and musical perfection meet. It’s an unforgettable experience and the perfect way to begin the new year with a touch of Viennese elegance.

Vienna Ice Dream

Although this highlight takes place after Christmas, it’s still well worth a visit during winter in Vienna. The Vienna Ice Dream transforms the Rathausplatz into a magical ice-skating wonderland and is a must-visit for all ice-skating fans. Every year from January to March, you can skate on the massive, romantically lit ice rink and glide through the winding path in the park. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced skater, there’s something for everyone – and for a quick break, you can warm up with drinks and snacks at the nearby stands. Especially in the evening, when the city lights twinkle, the Vienna Ice Dream becomes an unforgettable winter experience.

What Other Christmas Markets Are There in Vienna?

As well as the big Christmas markets in Vienna, there are many other smaller Vienna Christmas markets, each with its own charm. Here are some of the lesser-known but still noteworthy Christmas markets that you shouldn’t miss during Advent:

• Prater Winter Market: The winter market at the Vienna Prater offers atmospheric stalls as well as an exciting entertainment programme with live music and a view from the Ferris wheel.
• Christmas Market at the Hof in Vienna: This traditional Christmas market at Michaelerplatz in the heart of Vienna features handicrafts and culinary specialities against a historic backdrop.
• Hirschstetten Christmas Market: Amidst the Hirschstetten Flower Gardens, this market invites you to stroll through Christmas decorations and a large nativity trail.
• Advent Market at Karlsplatz: The Christmas market at Karlsplatz is distinguished by its artistic flair, featuring handmade crafts and organic delicacies in a unique atmosphere.
• Christmas Market at Stephansplatz: In front of the impressive St. Stephen’s Cathedral, this market offers high-quality handicrafts and produce local to the region.
• Christkindlmarkt Wilhelminenberg: With a fantastic view over Vienna, this smaller, charming Christmas market at Wilhelminenberg is perfect for a peaceful break from the hustle and bustle.

Getting to Vienna’s Christmas Markets by Public Transport

If your hotel in Vienna isn’t right next to one of Vienna’s Christmas markets, you can easily get around by the city’s public transport. Here are the best lines to get to Vienna’s most beautiful Christmas markets.

The Best Hotels in Vienna for the Christmas Season

• Hotel Sacher Vienna (★★★★★): The legendary Hotel Sacher is not only famous for its iconic Sachertorte but also offers a luxurious atmosphere in the heart of Vienna. Just a few minutes walk from the Christmas Market at Rathausplatz, it’s an ideal choice for your stay during the festive season.
• The Leo Grand (★★★★★): The Leo Grand is located right in the historic centre, close to St. Stephen’s Cathedral and the Christmas Market at Stephansplatz. Its elegant design and luxurious amenities make it an excellent choice if you want to experience Vienna’s festive spirit in a modern setting.
• Hotel Kaiserhof Vienna (★★★★): Hotel Kaiserhof boasts a central location near Karlsplatz.

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Will You Visit the Christmas Markets in Vienna in 2024?

And that wraps up our guide to the Vienna Christmas Markets. From the biggest Vienna Christmas markets to must-see concerts and glittering ice skating rinks, Vienna has tons of festive experiences to keep you entertained.

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