Christmas Markets (Weihnachtsmärkte) 2024-2025 in Vienna

Vienna, Austria, is renowned for its enchanting Christmas markets, which transform the city into a festive wonderland during the holiday season. According to local legend, Viennese residents were granted the privilege to host a "Krippenmarkt" as early as 1298. This ancient tradition has thrived and continues to be a cherished part of Vienna's holiday celebrations.

Christkindlmarkt on the Rathausplatz (November 16–December 26, 2024)

The City Hall Square is home to Vienna's most famous and largest Christmas market, the Wiener Weihnachtstraum. This festive spot is a hub of holiday cheer, featuring a vibrant skating rink, dazzling decorations, a charming carousel, and even a reindeer train. The market typically boasts around 100 booths, offering a wide range of traditional seasonal cuisine—from pastries and oven-baked potatoes to Buchteln, Baumkuchen, sausages, and Spätzle. Visitors can also indulge in Christmas punch or roast chestnuts from various stalls.

The adjacent park enhances the festive experience with its Advent displays, including the Tree of Hearts and a large nativity scene at the foot of the Rathaus Christmas tree. The park's grounds often host additional seasonal highlights, such as a nativity scene trail and a Ferris wheel. Another traditional favorite is the illuminated ice skating rink, where you can glide through the park on skates while enjoying a magical Christmas atmosphere. Many visitors come in the late afternoon to avoid peak crowds and have time to enjoy an evening Advent concert.

Open Hours

The market operates from 10 am to 10 pm, providing ample opportunity to soak in Vienna's holiday spirit.

The Christmas Village and New Year's Market at Maria-Theresien-Platz (November 13–December 31, 2024)

The Weihnachtsdorf at Maria-Theresien-Platz is situated between the Museum of Natural History and the Museum of Art, creating a picturesque setting for the market. It features a stage for Christmas carols and music, a carousel, and two curling lanes. With around 70 booths, the market offers a diverse selection of arts, crafts, and food stalls. The square is beautifully positioned next to the monumental Kunsthistorisches Museum, which will present a special Rembrandt exhibition in 2024. Visitors can enjoy a variety of seasonal foods, including Leberkäse, Langos, Lebkuchen, pastries, pretzels, and various potato dishes such as tornado fries, wedges, and baked potatoes, along with soups and roast chestnuts.

Open Hours

The market operates from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and from 11 am to 10 pm on Friday and Saturday. It closes early on December 24th at 4 pm, December 25th to 30th at 7 pm, and December 31st at 6 pm.

The Old Viennese Christmas Market at Freyung (November 15–December 23, 2024)

The Altwiener Christkindlmarkt at Freyung is one of Vienna's most traditional Christmas markets, with a history dating back to 1772. It's an excellent spot for finding unique souvenirs and gifts, as well as traditional crafts and art. The market features a farmer's market component and is renowned for its beautiful decorations. A highlight of the market is its diverse events program, which includes live music, children's shows, and craft demonstrations on the central stage. A particularly impressive feature is the enormous 46-meter nativity scene, which adds a grand touch to the festivities.

Open Hours

The market typically operates from 10 am to 9 pm.

Christmas and New Year's Market at Schönbrunn Palace (November 8, 2023–January 6, 2024)

When visiting Vienna during the holidays, the market at Schönbrunn Palace is a must-see. Set against the backdrop of the palace's imperial architecture, it provides a romantic atmosphere perfect for a winter stroll. This market is particularly family-friendly, featuring a small ice skating rink and a strong emphasis on arts and crafts. The market's centerpiece is an 18-meter Christmas tree adorned with 1,000 LED lights. One side of the market features a small stage where open-air Advent concerts are held, showcasing choirs, brass bands, and more. In front of the stage, a large handmade nativity scene adds to the festive ambiance.

Open Hours

The market is open from 10 am to 9 pm and closes early at 4 pm on December 24th. From December 25th onwards, it operates from 10 am to 6 pm.

Belvedere Christmas Market (November 15–December 31, 2024)

The Belvedere Christmas Market is beautifully situated right in front of the Upper Belvedere Palace. This charming market offers a more intimate and serene experience compared to the larger, more bustling Christmas markets. Its romantic setting makes it particularly appealing for couples. In addition to exploring the market, visitors should not miss the palace's art exhibitions, which are a highlight of any trip. For an extra special touch, consider booking a concert experience during your visit to Vienna.

Open Hours

The Belvedere Christmas Market is open from 11 am to 9 pm on weekdays and from 10 am to 9 pm on weekends. It closes early at 4 pm on December 24th and at 7 pm from December 25th to 30th. On December 31st, the market closes at 6 p.m

The markets usually open in late November and last throughout late December, so you have plenty of time to meet with friends, have a mug of punch or mulled wine, and eat lots of chestnuts!