Christmas markets in Vienna - winter magic in a class of its own
The Advent season in Vienna is something very special. When the streets and squares are filled with festive glitter and lights, the city is transformed into a winter wonderland. Christmas markets in Vienna (or Vienna Christmas Markets) are a must for anyone who wants to experience the magic of the festive season. Attracting tourists from all over the world, these markets offer a mix of traditional crafts, delicious specialties and a festive atmosphere that brightens up the cold season. Whether you're looking for a cozy afternoon or a special gift, Vienna's Christmas markets have something for everyone. Find out everything you need to know about the Christmas markets in Vienna in this article.
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Content:
- What can you expect at the Viennese Christmas markets?
- 1. Christmas market in front of the town hall
- 2. Spittelberg Christmas Market
- 3. Christmas market on Karlsplatz
- 4. Old Viennese Christmas Market
- 5. Schönbrunn Palace Christmas market
- 6. Belvedere Palace Christmas Market
- Activities at the Viennese Christmas markets
- Tips for visiting the Christmas markets
What can you expect at the Viennese Christmas markets?
Here are some of the things you can expect to find at Vienna's Christmas markets:
- Christmas decorations: there are twinkling lights everywhere, the scent of cinnamon and fresh fir branches, and the festive atmosphere is palpable.
- Handmade gifts: You will find beautiful handicrafts on the stalls, from handmade candles to jewellery and wooden toys.
- Culinary delights: Sample Viennese specialities such as Kaiserschmarrn, Maroni (roasted chestnuts), punch and mulled wine.
- Special activities: Many markets also offer ice skating rinks, carousels and other winter activities.
1. Christmas Market in front of the town hall
The Christkindlmarkt in front of Vienna City Hall is probably the city's most famous Christmas market and a highlight of any trip to Vienna.
• Opening hours: 17 November 2024 - 26 December 2024, daily from 10:00 - 22:00
• Location: Rathausplatz, 1010 Vienna
• Prices: Free admission, prices vary depending on the stand (punch approx. € 4.50)
• Website: www.christkindlmarkt.at
City Hall Square shines in a sea of lights and provides a magical backdrop for the Christmas market. Over 150 stalls offer everything from handmade gifts to regional treats. A special attraction is the impressive ice-skating rink, where visitors can let off steam.
2. Spittelberg Christmas Market
The Spittelberg Christmas market is known for its charming atmosphere. The market takes placeis insituated in the narrow streets of Spittelberg and impresses with a mixture of traditional and modern stalls.
• Opening times: 16 November 2024 - 23 December 2024, daily from 15:00 - 22:00
• Location: Spittelberggasse, 1070 Vienna
• Prices: Free admission, prices vary depending on the stand
• Website: www.spittelberg.at
The Spittelberg market is particularly cosy. You can discover handmade gifts in the historic alleyways and sample regional specialities at the stalls. The market is smaller than the Christkindlmarkt, but just as charming and inviting.
3. Christmas Market on Karlsplatz
This market is characterised by its alternative and modern atmosphere. The Christmas market on Karlsplatz is not only known for its stalls, but also for its special events and workshops.
• Opening hours: 16 November 2024 - 23 December 2024, daily from 11:00 - 21:00
• Location: Karlsplatz, 1040 Vienna
• Prices: Free admission, prices vary depending on the stand
• Website: Christmas market on Karlsplatz: concerts & children's programme
On Karlsplatz you will find traditional Christmas stalls as well as many creative ideas and arts and crafts stalls. The location right next to the Karlskirche church is particularly beautiful, which adds to the Christmas flair with its lights.
4. Old Viennese Christmas Market
This market on Freyung offers a traditional atmosphere with a variety of stalls selling handicrafts and Christmas decorations.
• Opening hours: 17 November 2024 - 24 December 2024, daily from 10:00 - 20:00
• Location: Freyung, 1010 Vienna
• Prices: Free admission, prices vary depending on the stand
• Website: altwiener-markt.at
The Altwiener Christkindlmarkt is particularly popular with those looking for a nostalgic, traditional Christmas market atmosphere.
5. Schönbrunn Palace Christmas Market
This Christmas market in front of the historic Schönbrunn Palace and its opulent appearance is guaranteed to create the right Christmas atmosphere for everyone.
• Opening hours: 08 November 2024 - 06 January 2025, daily from 10:00 - 19:00
• Location: Schönbrunner Schloßstraße 47, 1130 Vienna
• Prices: Free admission, prices vary depending on the stand
• Website: Schönbrunn Palace Christmas Market 2024
6. Belvedere Palace Christmas Market
Stylish baroque design, elegant stalls and baroque lights await visitors in front of Belvedere Palace.
• Opening hours: 15 November 2024 - 26 December 2024, daily from 11:00 - 19:00
• Location: Prinz-Eugen-Straße 27, 1030 Vienna
• Prices: Free admission, prices vary depending on the stand
• Website: Christmas Village - A joy like back then. - Vienna's most enchanting Christmas experiences
The Christmas market in front of Belvedere Palace is still an insider tip, as it is not as crowded as the other Christmas markets.
Activities at the Viennese Christmas markets
In addition to shopping and savouring the culinary delights, there are also many activities for the whole family. Some markets also offer special programmes such as:
• Ice skating: The Christkindlmarkt in front of the town hall offers a large ice-skating rink, which is particularly popular with families and children.
• Carousels: Many markets, such as the one in front of the town hall, offer carousels and Ferris wheels for younger visitors.
• Christmas concerts: The market on Karlsplatz in particular is known for its musical programme, from classical music to Christmas choirs.
Tips for visiting the Christmas markets
• Come early: The markets are very busy from the afternoon onwards. If you want to enjoy the markets in peace, you should be there in the early afternoon.
• Clothing: It can get quite cold, so don't forget to dress warmly! Gloves and a good winter jacket are recommended.
• Come by public transport: Many markets are easily accessible by public transport. Use the Vienna underground or tram to get to the various markets easily.
• Taste the punch: A visit to a Viennese Christmas market would not be complete without a mug of punch or mulled wine. A tip: Take a look at the different varieties, from classic mulled wine to fruity or alcoholic specialities.
The Christmas markets in Vienna are an unmissable experience for any tourist visiting the city during the Advent season. The mixture of traditional stalls, festive atmosphere and culinary delights makes every visit a unique experience. Whether at the famous Christkindlmarkt in front of City Hall or the alternative Christmas market on Karlsplatz, Vienna has the perfect Christmas market for every taste. Don't miss the opportunity to be enchanted by the magic of Christmas in one of the most beautiful cities in Europe!
Opening hours Service Center:
Opernring 3-5 17/24, 1010 Vienna daily 9:00am - 6:00pm
Ticket shop opening hours:
Opernpassage (Metro station Karlsplatz), 1010 Vienna daily 9:00am - 6:00pm
Opening hours Tourist-Info:
Albertinaplatz, 1010 Vienna daily 9:00am - 6:00pm
Airport daily 9:00am - 6:00pm