Christmas Markets in Vienna
The unique Christmas markets (Christkindlmarkt, sometimes called Weihnachtsmarkt or Adventmarkt) are very popular in Vienna during the advent season. Most of these fairs are opening up mid-november and last till Christmas.
These romantic street markets enjoy a long tradition, with a history in Austria (as well as the rest of German speaking Europe) dating back to the Middle Ages.
The markets are mostly located in larger squares and pedestrian zones in Vienna and sell food, drinks and seasonal items from open-air stalls. Indulge yourself in Lebkuchen (gingerbread), gebrannte Mandeln (toasted almonds), Waffeln (waffles), Maroni (sweet chestnuts), Bratkartoffel (baked potatoes), Bratwurst (fried sausages) and - last but not least - hot Glühwein (mulled wine) and Punsch (glogg) of various kinds.
Definitely a must-see and a good source for Christmas presents!
Vienna Christmas Markets 2012
The following section provides a comprehensive listing of all important Christmas Markets in Vienna:
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Wiener Christkindlmarkt at Rathausplatz
Located on the large town square between Rathaus (city hall) and Burgtheater, the Wiener Christkindlmarkt is by far the largest and probably best known christmas market in Vienna. Large christmas tree in front of the townhall, skating possibility, adorned trees in the nearby park, somewhat crowded!
when? Nov 17th till Dec 24th 2012, daily 10am to 10pm
where? 1010, Rathausplatz near U2 Rathaus (see website)
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Weihnachtsmarkt am Spittelberg
Embedded in the idyllic streets from the Biedermeier era, now the city´s second largest pedestrian zone, Spittelberg market focuses on traditional craftwork in a unique setting. The market stalls spread through narrow streets and backyards interspersed with cafes and small bars - exceptional atmosphere!
when? Nov 15th till Dec 23rd 2012, daily 2pm to 9.30pm
where? 1070, quarter between Stiftgasse and Breite Gasse near U2/U3 Volkstheater (see website)
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Christmas Market in front of Schönbrunn castle
Magnificent setting with large christmas tree in front of the Schönbrunn castle. Focus on handicrafts and original gifts such as hand-made Christmas decorations, mangers or objects made of natural materials. Christmas cakes and biscuits as well as hot punch and Glühwein in a historically significant ambience.
when? Nov 24th till Dec 26th 2012, daily 10am to 9pm
where? 1130, main entrance Schönbrunn castle, near U4 Schönbrunn (see website)
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Altwiener Christkindlmarkt at the Freyung
This traditional Viennese Christmas fair is situated in one of the most beautiful squares in the heart of Vienna, the Freyung. It features a mixture of exquisite craftwork, special treats typical for Christmas time in Vienna and a varied cultural programme - in a somewhat quieter and less touristic atmosphere.
when? Nov 23rd till Dec 23rd 2012, daily 10am to 9pm
where? 1010, Freyung close to U2 Schottentor (see website)
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Weihnachtsdorf Maria Theresien-Platz
Located on the large square between the two main museums (right off Ringstrasse), this Christmas Village opens its doors this year for the 4th time amongst the world-renowned sights of Vienna's majestic Ringstrasse. Festively decorated market stalls as well as a vast array of culinary delights.
when? Nov 21st till Dec 26th 2012, daily 11am to 10pm
where? 1010, Maria-Theresien-Platz, close to U2 Museumsquartier (see website)
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Adventmarkt in front of Karlskirche
Focusing on authentic handicrafts made by local artists rather than massproduced Christmas gifts, this very atmospheric market is located in the Resselpark between Karlskirche and the Technical University. Demonstration workshops for leather work, forging and glassblowing - and much more!
when? Nov 23rd till Dec 23rd 2012, daily 12am to 8pm
where? 1010, Resselpark in front of Karlskirche, next to the entrance of U1/2/4 Karlsplatz (see website)
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Weihnachtsdorf im Alten AKH
The Christmas Village at Vienna's former General Hospital (Altes AKH, University Campus right now) enchants the visitor with its cosy atmosphere. The decorated market stalls located on narrow alleyways offer an array of beautiful Christmas gifts as well as mulled wine. Student setting, many adjacent bars!
when? Nov 17th till Dec 23rd 2012, daily 11am/2pm to 10pm
where? 1090, Universitaetscampus at Spitalgasse/Alserstrasse (see website)
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Weihnachtsdorf in front of Belvedere castle
One of the latest additions to the Christmas Market scene in Vienna, this popular Christmas Village is set against the glorious baroque backdrop of the world-famous Belvedere palace. Open market stalls offer traditional handcrafted goods, elaborate Christmas decorations and special culinary delights.
when? Nov 23rd till Dec 23rd 2012, daily 11am to 9pm
where? 1030, Prinz Eugen-Strasse 27 (see website)
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Adventmarkt Mahlerstrasse
A somewhat smaller yet very centrally located Christmas venue in the pedestrian zone between the Opera house and the city shopping complex Ringstrassengalerien. The Christmas Market at Mahlerstrasse seduces shoppers and tourists to a quick Punsch or Gluehwein before continuing their stroll through the city center.
when? Nov 16th till Dec 31st 2012, daily 11am to 9pm
where? 1010, Mahlerstrasse, next to the Opera house (see website)
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Adventmarkt Am Hof
Am Hof, one of the oldest squares in Vienna, accomodates this market focusing on handcrafted goods and contemporary artwork. Expect to discover magnificent candles, ceramics and pottery, knitwear, jewelry, metal objects, wood carvings and much more in a romantic yet artistic and creative environment.
when? Nov 16th till Dec 23rd 2012, daily 10am to 8pm
where? 1010, Am Hof, between Graben and Freyung (see website)
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Adventmarkt in front of Mariahilf church
Probably the best possibility to grab a Gluehwein or Punsch during Christmas shopping at Mariahilfer Strasse, one of Vienna's main shopping streets. This market is located on a small square in front of the Mariahilf church, offering mainly food but also Christmas decorations and original gifts.
when? Nov 17th till Dec 24th 2012, daily 9am to 8pm
where? 1060, Mariahilfer Strasse 55 (see website)
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Wintermarkt at Riesenradplatz
This idyllic Christmasmarket is located right beside the Riesenrad (Vienna Giant Ferris Wheel) at the entrance to the Prater amusement park. Make sure to treat yourself with a Glühwein or Punsch while shopping for Christmas gifts! Hint: Market is open on New Years Eve as part of the Silvesterpfad as well!
when? Nov 23rd till Jan 6th 2013, daily 11/12am to 9pm
where? 1020, Prater on Riesenradplatz (see website)
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Christmas Market in the Gardens of Hirschstetten
This market in the 22nd district as well offers the omnipresent christmas presents and handmade gifts as well as Punsch and Gluehwein. Apart from that, a marvellous christmas exhibition displays winter and advent tales - worth seeing, especially for children!
when? Nov 22nd till Dec 23rd 2012, Thu to Sun 10am to 8pm
where? 1220, Quadenstrasse 15 (see website)
Locating the Vienna Christmas Markets
In order to find your way to all the Christmas Markets in Vienna, we provided an aerial view of the Vienna city center with all the relevant markets as well as the significant subway stations marked:
Most of the Christmas Markets in Vienna are located in and around the city center:
(1) Wiener Christkindlmarkt at Rathausplatz
(2) Weihnachtsmarkt am Spittelberg
(3) Christmas Market in front of Schönbrunn castle
(4) Altwiener Christkindlmarkt at the Freyung
(5) Weihnachtsdorf Maria Theresien-Platz
(6) Adventmarkt vor der Karlskirche
(7) Weihnachtsdorf im Alten AKH
(8) Weihnachtsdorf in front of Belvedere castle
(9) Adventmarkt Mahlerstrasse
(10) Adventmarkt Am Hof
(11) Adventmarkt vor der Kirche Mariahilf
Couldn't exactly find what you searched for? Or happened to discover another Christmas Market in Vienna you would like to share with us? You are more than welcome to let us know!
We hope you enjoy the visit on this site and your time in Vienna!