If you’re planning a trip to the Vienna Christmas Market in 2026, here’s what you should know before you book. Vienna doesn’t have one Christmas market – it has over 10, and they all open and close on different dates. Not all of them are worth your time either, and trying to see everything just isn’t realistic. That’s exactly why I put this guide together – the best markets, the ones to skip, and everything you need to plan your trip, including a map. I’ll also show you where to find the famous boot-shaped mug and Vienna’s iconic Red Bow.
Vienna Christmas Market Review 2026
Vienna Christmas Market tradition dates all the way back to 1298, when Albert I of Germany gave the city permission to hold a special December market. That makes it one of the oldest Christmas markets in Europe. And like most European Christmas markets, entry is completely free.
Vienna hosts over 10 Christmas markets, but the star of the show is the Viennese Christmas Market at Rathausplatz. Set right in front of the stunning City Hall, this market with 150+ stalls feels like a magical wonderland. Most markets are tucked around the Old Town or along the grand Ringstrasse, so you can easily explore them on foot. However, to visit the ones at Prater or Schönbrunn Palace, you’ll need to take public transport, as they’re a bit farther out.
💖 My favourite hotel in Vienna: Das Tyrol Hotel
Location: only a short walk to several Christmas markets and the metro
What I loved: quiet modern rooms, great private spa with sauna
If there’s one tip I can give you, it’s this – try to avoid visiting on the weekend. This market is one of the busiest in Europe (up there with Strasbourg and Colmar), and it gets packed. I arrived on a Sunday and could barely move through the crowds. Monday was still busy, but much more bearable.
Vienna Christmas Market Dates 2026
| Schönbrunn Palace Christmas Market | 6 November – 6 January 2027 |
| Stephansplatz Christmas Market | 6 November – 26 December 2026 |
| Viennese Christmas Market Rathaus | 13 November – 26 December 2026 |
| Art Advent Karlsplatz | 13 November – 23 December 2026 |
| Maria-Theresien-Platz Christmas Village | 20 November – 26 December 2026 |
These are the official opening dates for the five main markets. For more information, including opening hours, check the description of each market further down in this guide.
Vienna Christmas Market Map
Here’s an interactive map with the exact locations of all the markets.
Best Christmas Markets in Vienna 2026
Viennese Christmas Market Rathaus
If you’re dreaming of a storybook Christmas, the Viennese Christmas Market Rathaus (also known as the Wiener Christkindlmarkt) is the place to be. With fairy lights strung through snow-dusted trees, and a massive Christmas tree glowing in the centre, it’s like walking into a holiday snow globe. Set against the stunning neo-Gothic City Hall (Rathaus), this market is not only one of the city’s largest but also its most iconic. Make it a top stop on your itinerary, just be ready for big crowds, especially after dark.
There are over 150 wooden stalls, all selling beautiful handmade gifts, sweet treats, and warm drinks in cute collectable mugs. The market also features a nostalgic carousel for kids, a romantically lit Ferris wheel, and a sprawling ice rink that winds through the park!
Every year, a giant Christmas tree is generously donated by a different Austrian province, or even sometimes by South Tyrol in northern Italy. In 2025, the impressive 50-year-old spruce came all the way from Hopfgarten im Brixental, a charming market town in the province of Tyrol.
If it’s your first time visiting the capital of Austria, check out my Vienna itinerary. It includes all the must-see sights, hidden gems, and my favourite spots for authentic Wiener schnitzel.
Don’t miss the enchanting Heart Tree! Every half hour from dusk until 9 PM, a glowing heart travels from the Rathaus to the Heart Tree, slowly lighting it up in a magical display. And if you’re visiting Friday through Sunday, stop by between 3:30 PM and 7 PM for live Advent singing!
The Rathaus Christmas Market is hands down one of my favourite markets in Vienna. Whether you’re looking to shop for unique gifts, delicious food, or just enjoy a warm mulled wine in the evening, it’s the perfect spot. I bought a lovely Christmas incense there, and I still light it during winter. It fills my home with that cosy holiday feeling every time!
Wiener Christkindlmarkt Opening times
From 13 November to 26 December 2026
Daily from 10 AM to 10 PM
Address: Rathausplatz, 1010 Wien, Austria
Wiener Christkindlmarkt official website
Best hotels near Vienna Christmas Market
Most booked by our readers – Hotel Das Tigra
9.1 | 4,140+ reviews – stylish stay, steps away from the main markets in Vienna’s historic centre
Best mid-range stay – Hotel Kaiserhof
9.3 | 1,890+ reviews – perfectly located just minutes from Karlsplatz station and several Christmas markets
Best luxury stay – Hotel Imperial
9.3 | 860+ reviews – luxury stay in a 19th-century palace, just a short walk from some of the best markets
Best budget-friendly stay – Motel One Wien-Staatsoper
8.4 | 7,750+ reviews – great value rooms close to several Christmas markets and a metro station
For more recommendations, check out my guide to the best hotels in Vienna.
Schönbrunn Palace Christmas Market
Set against the majestic baroque façade of the Schönbrunn Palace, the market feels like stepping into a royal winter tale. This palace was once home to emperors and empresses, including Empress Maria Theresa and Empress Sisi. Imagine sipping mulled wine where imperial carriages once rolled through!
You walk through a gorgeous starry portal to enter the market, which is really impressive and perfect for a quick photo. Inside, you’ll find around 90 stalls packed with local handmade crafts and yummy Austrian treats like strudel, kaiserschmarrn, and cheese. There’s also a Ferris wheel, a nostalgic carousel, an ice rink, and a children’s train.
The first time I visited this market, years ago, it was tiny with just a few stalls, and honestly, not really worth the detour. But in 2024, it got a complete makeover, and wow, what a difference! I was genuinely impressed by how many stalls there were, the quality of the products, and the festive atmosphere. It quickly became my favourite Christmas market in Vienna, so if you’re heading there during the holiday season, definitely put it on your list!
However, keep in mind that it’s located about 30 minutes away from the city centre. The easiest way to get there is by taking the U4 metro line from Karlsplatz.
Weihnachtsmarkt Schloss Schönbrunn Opening times
From 6 November to 23 December 2026
Daily from 10 AM to 9 PM
After Christmas, the market turns into a New Year’s Market
From 24 December 2026 to 6 January 2027
Daily from 10 AM to 7 PM
December 24 – from 10 AM to 4 PM
Address: Ehrenhof Courtyard, Schönbrunn Palace, 1130 Vienna
Weihnachtsmarkt Schloss Schönbrunn official website
Best Vienna Tours & Experiences
Light of Creation Immersive Light Show – a 30-minute light and sound spectacle inside a Gothic church (so popular it’s rated 4.8 from over 10,000 reviews)
Wine Cellar Tasting Experience – get access to a hidden, non-public wine cellar and taste local wines (I loved the Grüner Veltliner) and regional bites
Apple Strudel Baking Show & Tasting – enjoy a strudel-making demonstration inside the historic Schönbrunn Palace bakery, with a warm slice and coffee included
Stephansplatz Christmas Market
The Stephansplatz Christmas Market, officially called the Christmas Village at Stephansplatz, is a must-see spot during the holiday season. Set against the stunning backdrop of St. Stephen’s Cathedral, glowing in purple and red lights, it offers a magical atmosphere. Here, you’ll find over 40 stalls packed with high-quality products from across Austria.
This market was way less crowded than the previous two, even at night. That’s why it quickly became my favourite spot to just relax and enjoy a nice warm cup of mulled wine.
Weihnachtsdorf Stephansplatz Opening times
From 6 November to 26 December 2026
Daily from 11 AM to 9 PM
24th December – from 11 AM to 4 PM
25th and 26th December – from 11 AM to 7 PM
Address: Stephansplatz 2, 1010 Wien, Austria
Weihnachtsdorf Stephansplatz official website
Maria-Theresien-Platz Christmas Village
Maria-Theresien-Platz Christmas Village is tucked right between two of the city’s most impressive buildings – the Art History and Natural History Museums. This creates a truly grand and beautiful setting! And with the statue of Empress Maria Theresa standing tall in the centre, everything feels a little more regal and festive.
With over 70 stalls, the Maria-Theresien-Platz market is one of the biggest in the city. And here’s a bonus: if you need a break from the cold, you can pop right into one of the museums for a dose of history or art!.
Weihnachtsdorf Maria-Theresien-Platz Opening times
From 20 November to 26 December 2026
Daily from 11 AM to 9 PM
24th December – until 4 PM
25th December and 26th December – until 7 PM
Address: Maria-Theresien-Platz, 1010 Wien, Austria
Weihnachtsdorf Maria-Theresien-Platz official website
Art Advent Karlsplatz
Art Advent Karlsplatz is located right in front of the stunning Baroque Karlskirche (St. Charles Church), which is beautifully lit up. Fairy lights stretch across the square like a sparkling web, making the whole place feel truly magical. The pond in front of the church is drained and filled with hay, giving the area a cosy, rustic feel. And if you’re travelling with family or just love animals, there’s a fun little petting zoo!
Unlike your typical Christmas market, Art Advent has a unique, artsy vibe that sets it apart. Organised by the Divina Art Association, this market focuses on high-quality, handmade crafts and organic cuisine. You won’t find mass-produced souvenirs here, making it a great place to pick up thoughtful, one-of-a-kind gifts.
The market features over 80 stalls, packed with a lovely selection of handmade jewellery, ceramics, textiles, and delicious artisanal treats. All products are crafted by the artisans themselves, and in many cases, you can even watch them creating their work right at their stalls. Plus, Art Advent is the only Advent market in Austria with fully certified organic gastronomy!
This used to be my favourite Christmas market, but over the past few years, it has grown a lot. With the bigger size came bigger crowds, and during my last visit, it was incredibly packed.
Art Advent Karlsplatz Opening times
From 13 November to 23 December 2026
Daily from 12 PM to 8 PM
Address: Karlsplatz, 1040 Wien, Austria
Art Advent Karlsplatz official website
Belvedere Palace Christmas Village
As a die-hard palace lover, the Christmas Village at Belvedere Palace was at the very top of my list. And it absolutely didn’t disappoint! Set against the stunning backdrop of the Baroque Upper Belvedere Palace, this market feels like something straight out of a holiday postcard.
The Belvedere Palace market is on the smaller side, with about 40 charming wooden stalls offering handcrafted gifts and traditional Austrian treats. It’s the perfect place to sip on a mug of mulled wine with someone special while soaking up the gorgeous surroundings. Honestly, in my experience, it’s the most romantic Christmas market in Vienna.
Weihnachtsdorf Schloss Belvedere Opening times
From 13 November to 31 December 2026
Daily from 11 AM to 9 PM
24th December – from 11 AM to 4 PM
From 25th to 30th December – 11 AM to 8 PM
31st December – from 11 AM to 6 PM
Address: Prinz Eugen-Strasse 27, 1030 Wien, Austria
Am Hof Advent Market
Tucked away in one of Vienna’s historic squares, the Am Hof Advent Market is a must-visit if you’re after a truly local and authentic experience. In fact, this spot has hosted a marketplace for centuries, since the 13th century, to be exact. Unlike the larger, more tourist-heavy markets, Am Hof offers a cosy atmosphere with a charming old-world feel. The square itself is framed by beautiful Baroque buildings, creating a magical setting.
The Am Hof Advent Market features over 70 stalls filled with handmade crafts and delicious seasonal goodies. A real highlight here is the exclusive pine punch (Zirbenpunsch), which you can only find at this market. They also brew their very own Bock Bier – Am Hof, making it a must-try for beer lovers.
Weihnachtsmarkt am Hof Opening hours
From 13 November to 23 December 2026
Daily from 11 AM to 9 PM
Address: Am Hof, 1010 Wien, Austria
Weihnachtsmarkt am Hof official website
Old Viennese Christmas Market
Just a few steps from Am Hof, you’ll come across another truly local gem – the Old Viennese Christmas Market. Tucked between Baroque buildings and right beside the Schottenkirche, it has a timeless, romantic charm. In fact, a market has been held here since the 18th century, and it still proudly preserves that traditional atmosphere. So, if you’re after an authentic Viennese Christmas experience, be sure to add the Altwiener Christkindlmarkt to your list.
Altwiener Christkindlmarkt Opening times
From 14 November to 23 December 2026
Daily from 10 AM to 9 PM
Address: Freyung, 1010 Wien, Austria
Altwiener Christkindlmarkt official website
Campus University Vienna Christmas Village
The Christmas Village at the University of Vienna’s Campus (Altes AKH) is quietly tucked away in the city’s 9th district. The market is set within the charming courtyards of a former hospital complex, now part of the university. With a children’s railway, an old-fashioned carousel, and two curling lanes, this market is one of the city’s most family-friendly festive spots. And since it’s just outside the busy Ringstraße, it’s mostly popular among locals.
What makes this market special is its focus on local craftsmanship and community. Here, you’ll find handmade soaps, artisanal candles, knitwear, and wooden toys, all crafted by small Austrian artisans.
I found this market absolutely magical in the evening, with colourful trees all lit up and twinkling lights everywhere. However, my advice is to go after dark. I actually showed up earlier in the day, about an hour after the opening time, and was surprised to find it completely closed. That was annoying since it takes a bit to get there by tram, plus a walk. So, don’t make my mistake, go later in the evening. When I came back around 5 PM, everything was open and the atmosphere was wonderful.
Weihnachtsdorf Campus Universität Wien Opening times
From 13 November to 23 December 2026
From Monday to Friday – 2 PM to 10 PM
Saturday – 11 PM to 10 PM
Sunday – 11 PM to 9 PM
23 December – 11 PM to 8 PM
Address: Alserstrasse/Spitalgasse, Hof 1, 1090 Wien, Austria
Spittelberg Christmas Market
Tucked away in Vienna’s creative Neubau district, the Spittelberg Christmas Market is a favourite spot for locals. It stretches across the festive streets of Schrankgasse, Spittelberggasse, and Gutenberggasse. What makes this market unique is its setting – narrow cobblestone alleyways surrounded by beautifully preserved 18th-century buildings and Biedermeier-style houses. It feels more like a small village than a city market!
The market is run as an eco-friendly event. This means that everything sold at the stalls is either fairly traded or locally made.
I first visited the Spittelberg Christmas Market a few years ago, and it was packed with over 100 stalls full of handmade gifts and seasonal treats. But when I returned last year, it felt a lot smaller, with far fewer stalls. Also, even though the official website said it opens around 2 PM, most of the stalls were still closed when I got there. I ended up returning later in the evening when things had properly opened up. So if you’re planning a visit, it’s best to go a bit later in the afternoon.
Weihnachtsmarkt am Spittelberg Opening times
From 13 November to 23 December 2026
From Monday to Friday – 2 PM to 9 PM
Saturday and Sunday – 11 AM to 9:30 PM
Address: Spittelberggasse, Schrankgasse, Gutenberggasse, 1070 Wien, Austria
Weihnachtsmarkt am Spittelberg official website
Winter at MuseumsQuartier
If you’re after a more alternative market experience, Winter at MuseumsQuartier (MQ) is a perfect choice. Located in the main courtyard of the MuseumsQuartier complex, the space comes alive with colourful light projections by local artists and festive decorations. There are punch bars, live DJ sets, music events, and even curling lanes to try. It’s a fun spot to meet up with friends, enjoy a mug of mulled wine, and experience a more alternative side of Vienna during the holidays.
Winter at MuseumsQuartier Opening times
From 13 November to 23 December 2026
From Monday to Friday – 4 PM to 11 PM
Saturday and Sunday – 2 PM to 11 PM
Address: MuseumsQuartier, Museumsplatz 1, 1070 Wien, Austria
Winter at MuseumsQuartier official website
Winter Market at Riesenradplatz
The Winter Market at Riesenradplatz is right in the heart of the Prater amusement park, home to the famous Giant Ferris Wheel. It’s a great choice if you want festive vibes mixed with a fun fair atmosphere. If you’re visiting with kids, be sure to check out the Winterburg area, which has bouncy castles and games just for them. There’s also live music featuring local bands playing everything from gospel to rock. And if you’re there at the end of the year, don’t miss the special New Year’s Eve celebrations!
To be honest, I didn’t get a chance to visit the Winter Market at Riesenradplatz since amusement parks aren’t really my thing, and my time was limited as well. Also, it’s a bit farther from the other markets, and I wanted to focus more on the traditional ones.
Wintermarkt am Riesenradplatz Opening times
From 20 November 2026 to 6 January 2027
From Monday to Friday – 12 PM to 10 PM
Saturday and Sunday – 11 AM to 10 PM
24th December – 10 AM to 05 PM
31st December – 12 PM to 2 AM
Address: Riesenradplatz, 1020 Wien, Austria
Wintermarkt am Riesenradplatz official website
What to do in Vienna at Christmas
Enjoy a classical music concert
Vienna is known as the world capital of music, so catching a concert while you’re in town, especially around Christmas, is a must. One of the most popular (and one I highly recommend) is Vivaldi’s Four Seasons at Karlskirche. The setting inside the stunning Baroque-style St. Charles Church is absolutely breathtaking. Just be sure to book your tickets early, as this one tends to sell out fast!
You can find more events in my complete guide to the best classical concerts in Vienna.
Admire the Christmas decorations
Vienna’s city centre and its famous shopping streets (Kohlmarkt, Graben, and Kärntner Straße) come alive with festive decorations every holiday season. But there are two iconic spots you simply can’t miss, and the best part is they’re located right next to each other.
- The Big Red Bow – this is the city’s most photographed holiday display. You’ll find it at Popp & Kretschmer, located at Kärntner Straße 51, right across from the Vienna State Opera. Each Christmas season, the store wraps its entire facade with a giant, sparkling red bow, turning the building into a stunning festive gift
- The display of Gerstner K. u. K. Hofzuckerbäcker – be sure to visit their café-restaurant on the second floor as well, the beautiful interior alone is worth it. Just a heads-up: it’s best to book in advance, as it fills up quickly. It’s actually my favourite café in all of Vienna!
Ice skating
For the largest ice rink in Vienna, head to Rathausplatz. Right next to the city’s most famous Christmas market, you’ll find a huge rink that winds its way through the park like a frozen fairytale path. This event, called the Viennese Ice Dream (Eistraum), is separate from the market and stays open until January 6th, while the market itself closes on December 26th.
Address: Address: Rathausplatz, 1010 Wien, Austria
The Viennese Ice Dream is open from November 13, 2026, through January 6, 2027.
You’ll also find a smaller ice rink at the Maria-Theresien-Platz Christmas market.
Vienna Christmas market food
For me, the top Christmas markets in Vienna for food are definitely Rathausplatz and Schönbrunn Palace. They have an amazing selection of both savoury and sweet treats, and they even offer organic and vegan options, so there’s something for every taste. Here are some of my personal favourite foods to try while you’re there!
Kaiserschmarrn
Kaiserschmarrn is a classic Austrian dessert that’s basically a fluffy, shredded pancake. It is cooked until golden, then broken into bite-sized pieces and lightly caramelised for a deliciously crispy finish. It is usually served with plum or apple compote, but I prefer it with chocolate.
My tip: Try the Kaiserschmarrn with chocolate at the Schönbrunn Palace Christmas Market.
Lebkuchen
Lebkuchen is a traditional Austrian gingerbread cookie, spiced with cinnamon, cloves and nutmeg.
Skip the flashy heart-shaped lebkuchen with icing, they may look nice, but the taste often doesn’t live up to the appearance. Instead, go for the simpler, less fancy-looking ones.
My tip: My personal favourite is the Pirker honey Lebkuchen, which you can find at the markets in Rathausplatz and Stephansplatz. They’re much more authentic and delicious! They also have a shop at Stephansplatz, where you can find dozens of different Lebkuchen, as well as honey products and even incense.
Käsekrainer
You’ve probably seen grilled sausages at Christmas markets all across Europe, but Austria has something truly special – Käsekrainer. This local pork sausage is stuffed with little cubes of cheese, usually Emmental, which melt perfectly when cooked. Served in a bun with mustard, it’s absolutely irresistible!
Glühwein
Glühwein is the ultimate Christmas market drink in Vienna! It’s a hot, spiced red or white wine, usually infused with cinnamon, cloves, and oranges, perfect for staying warm as you wander the stalls. It’s served in festive mugs, and you’ll pay a small deposit for the mug, which you get back when you return it. Or, if you love the design, you can keep it as a fun souvenir!
Each Christmas market in Vienna usually has its own style of Glühwein mug. So if you’re thinking of taking one home as a souvenir, it’s a good idea to browse a few before picking your favourite. I saw the classic boot-shaped mugs at Stephansplatz, Maria-Theresien-Platz, and Belvedere Palace markets last year. But if you’re after something a bit more unique, head to the Karlsplatz market. It’s known for its artsy atmosphere, and they have a new, creative mug design each year.
Vienna Christmas Markets 2026
- Viennese Christmas Market Rathaus
- Schönbrunn Palace Christmas Market
- Stephansplatz Christmas Market
- Maria-Theresien-Platz Christmas Village
- Art Advent Karlsplatz
- Belvedere Palace Christmas Village
- Am Hof Advent Market
- Old Viennese Christmas Market
- Campus University Vienna Christmas Village
- Spittelberg Christmas Market
- Winter at MuseumsQuartier
- Winter Market at Riesenradplatz
FAQs about Vienna Christmas Market
Absolutely! The Vienna Christmas market is considered one of the best in Europe, drawing over 3 million visitors each year. It’s known for its magical atmosphere, stunning decorations, and beautiful handmade crafts that make perfect souvenirs.
The Austrian capital is home to over 10 markets, with the largest ones found at Rathausplatz, Schönbrunn Palace, Stephansplatz, Maria-Theresien-Platz, and Karlsplatz.
Most Christmas markets in Vienna run from November 13 to December 23, 2026. However, the markets at Rathausplatz, Stephansplatz, Belvedere, and Schönbrunn Palace stay open until December 26.
Yes, while most markets close on December 23, the larger ones at Rathaus, Stephansplatz, Belvedere, and Schönbrunn Palace remain open on Christmas Day. However, their opening hours may be shorter, so it’s best to double-check before you go.
Nearly all Christmas markets in Vienna close just before or shortly after Christmas. However, the markets at Belvedere, Schönbrunn Palace, and the Winter Market at Riesenradplatz stay open a little longer.
Vienna is one of the top places in Europe to shop for Christmas decorations and crafts. The quality is excellent, with many items handcrafted by local artisans. You’ll also find unique gifts like jewelry, toys, candles, and incense.
Both Budapest and Vienna are beautiful at Christmas, but if I had to choose, I’d go with Vienna. The city has a long tradition of festive markets (some dating back centuries), and you’ll find more than 10 scattered around town. The atmosphere, quality of the stalls, and timeless charm make it hard to beat.
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