Oh Vienna, how gray and dreary you can be in winter – in the Christmas time you always show yourself from your best side. We dare to say that there is hardly any other city that has so many wonderful Christmas markets like in Vienna.
At this point, an important conceptual note: Christmas markets in Vienna are usually attended by locals “Christmas markets” called. Either way: there are numerous of them in Vienna – and one is more romantic than the other.
In this blog article we will tell you which Christmas markets in Vienna you can enjoy punch, raclette bread, chestnuts and the like. We’ll show you ours personal favorites and also provide one or the other Insider tip before.
By the way: If you are still looking for further tips for your Vienna city trip, then you can find all our blog articles about our beautiful hometown here: Vienna travel tips.
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1. Christmas market in front of Schönbrunn Palace
The first Christmas market on our list is also one of our very favorites: the Christmas market in front of Schönbrunn Palace. The imperial backdrop before the illuminated castle is unique and for this reason alone we definitely recommend traveling to the beautiful 13th district.
What sets the Christmas market apart from others in Vienna is its right spacious design. The exhibitors’ stands are arranged in a circle, with a few bar tables in the middle where you can enjoy culinary delicacies.
Speaking of stands: We personally like the selection – a nice mix of kitschy, rustic, traditional and sometimes even quite hip. By the way, in our opinion, you can get very good punch at the Fuchs-Steinclip winery stand. The Uhudler-Punsch next door is also worth a try.
Another plus point: The Christmas market is one of the few in Vienna that continues after December 26th. remain open – then as a so-called “New Year’s Market” and in a slightly adapted form.
2nd Christmas market Art Advent at Karlsplatz
A second Christmas market, which is also one of our favorites, is the one in front of the Karlskirche, called “Art Advent”. Here, too, the backdrop is in front of the illuminated Karlskirche really wonderful.
The Christmas market lives up to its name because the focus here is actually more on regional craftsmanship than on the otherwise typical “kitsch”. In our experience, the quality of food and drink is also higher than anywhere else. By the way, the entire gastronomic offering is (with very few exceptions that are marked as such). biological certified – a great thing, in our opinion.
Our conclusion about this Christmas market: Even though it is icy cold outside, we really like the atmosphere at this Christmas market homely and cozy. Clearly one of the most beautiful places during the Christmas season in Vienna.
3rd Advent market in the Liechtenstein Palace
A Insider tip Among the Christmas markets in Vienna is the Christkindlmarkt in the courtyard and park of the Liechtenstein Palace. The Advent market is one of the newest and has only been running since 2021. This is probably one reason why it is not nearly as crowded as other markets in Vienna.
The exhibitor offer is small but nice. There are only about 20 stands, but they are impressive. The culinary offering is also absolutely sufficient and of very good quality.
This is of course a special eye-catcher beautiful historical carousel, which makes the already very romantic atmosphere a bit kitschy. Children will especially love it here.
4. Christmas magic in the Ottakringer Brewery
A Christmas market in Vienna that is quite out of line is the one in the Ottakringer Brewery. (For all non-Viennese people: This is a very well-known one Beer brewery and now also an event location on the outskirts of Vienna.)
It’s waiting for you here, so to speak “Hipster” among the Christmas markets. In any case, it is much more unconventional, young and hip than other Advent markets. As befits a brewery, beer is of course also served. If you want, you can even try beer punch.
When it comes to market stalls, you will definitely find something different here than what you are used to in classic Christmas markets. The indoor hall will also be opened on weekends (Saturday and Sunday). Different things go there Markets and pop-ups (e.g. vintage market) across the stage.
5. Christmas Village in front of Belvedere Palace
Against the backdrop of Baroque Belvedere Castle one of the most popular Christmas markets in Vienna takes place. The location is relatively close to the center and because the castle is also one of the most famous sights in Vienna, this Christmas market is quite popular with tourists.
A small confession: Personally, we find the scenery from a distance almost more beautiful than the Christmas market itself Stand selection Personally, it doesn’t blow us away, as they would say in Vienna.
The location and ambience are of course unique. They ensure enthusiasm among the little ones Children’s railway as well as that Carousel. Overall, a nice Christmas market, but not one of our absolute favorites in Vienna.
6. Vienna Christmas market on Rathausplatz
The “Disneyland” among the Christmas markets Vienna’s is the one at Rathausplatz. The dimensions are huge – and the entire backdrop is also impressive. Nowhere can you find more lights than here. “Herzerlbaum”, illuminated figures in the park, carousel and Ferris wheel – there is sparkle on every corner here.
We’ll be honest: this all matters to us personally „too much“. Too kitsch, too bright and above all: too many people. The Christmas market is particularly popular with tourists, as the market is somehow a must when visiting Vienna during the Christmas season.
Wer Hype and kitsch If you’re looking for something, you’ll like it here. If you are looking for a cozy Christmas market that is mainly visited by locals, you have definitely come to the wrong place.
7. Christmas market on Spittelberg
One of alternative Christmas markets Vienna, which is particularly popular with locals, is the one on Spittelberg. Spittelberg is a district in Vienna’s hip 7th district – and the market fits perfectly into this location.
The Christmas market describes itself as “Eco-Event”. We rely on regional manufacturers, fairly and sustainably produced items, as well as vegetarian/vegan food – preferably organic.
The market stalls are located in quite narrow (but really pretty) alleys, so this Christmas market can get very crowded very quickly. If you prefer to stroll in peace, it’s better to come in the afternoon.
Read also:
Exploring Vienna’s Belvedere Palaces: A Visitor’s Guide
