Ashley Lauren
Top 15 Christmas Markets in Vienna Ranked
If Europe is calling your name this holiday season, book your next trip to see the Christmas Markets in Vienna. This charming, walkable city boasts over 15 Christmas markets in 2024, each offering dazzling displays and unique products to amuse.
As someone who lives in Europe and has traveled extensively to uncover the continent’s best holiday markets and cities, I’m here to save you time by ranking Vienna’s—from must-see gems to those you can skip if you’re short on time. Spoiler alert: if you walk fast, you can see them all in 4 full days. I booked a 3.5-day trip and wished I had 6 days to explore Vienna.
Please note that if you have 4+ days in Vienna to see all the Christmas Markets, there is an itinerary at the end for the most efficient travel methods.
Link to Map (in case it doesn’t display below).
1. Christkindlmarkt am Rathausplatz [Christmas Market at Town Hall Square]
- Location: Rathausplatz, 1010 Wien, Austria
- Dates: November 15th- December 26th 2024
- Times: 10am- 10pm
- Exceptions: Christmas Eve 10am- 6:30pm
- Size: 100 Booths
- Website: https://www.christkindlmarkt.at/en/
Seeing the Christmas Markets in Vienna wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the iconic market in front of City Hall, which spills into Rathausplatz Park. Dominated by a towering 100-foot Christmas tree adorned with thousands of twinkling lights and ornaments, this market is a holiday dream come true. The festive atmosphere kicks into full swing with the sound of brass bands filling the air with holiday melodies nightly from 7 to 8:30 pm.
This market has it all! Get lost through the enchanting park, where you’ll find illuminated treasures like the famous Heart Tree, a stunning Advent wreath, and oversized ornament bulbs perfect for snapping a memorable holiday photo with your loved ones.
Family-friendly activities abound with a carousel, Ferris wheel, and reindeer train. Let’s not forget about the magical Ice Dream skating rink offering up the chance for your child to laugh at your expense while you stumble around on the ice rink. Our personal experience at this Christmas Market was memorable!
The history of this market adds to its charm—it’s been an evolving tradition for over 50 years but traces its roots back to the 1600s under different names. Today, the market boasts around 100 charming wooden stalls offering organic and sustainably made goods. Explore a variety of unique, handcrafted gifts, including wooden toys, ceramics, snow globes, and decorative lanterns.
No visit to see the Christmas Markets in Vienna is complete without savoring the market’s mulled wine and baked treats, which are guaranteed to warm you up and satisfy your holiday cravings. Whether it’s the sparkling decorations, delicious food, or festive entertainment, this market makes spending the holidays in Vienna an unforgettable experience.
2. Art Advent Market by the Karlskirche
- Location: Karlsplatz, Wien, Austria
- Dates: November 15th- December 23rd 2024
- Times: Daily from 12pm- 8pm
- Size: 80 Booths
- Website: https://divinaart.at/en/
If you’re going to see the Christmas Markets in Vienna, the dazzling Art Advent market at Karlsplatz is an absolute must-see. Located in front of the stunning Karlskirche, this 30-year-old tradition transforms the square into a festive atmosphere with around 80 artisan booths offering handmade treasures crafted from leather, glass, fabric, wood, and more. Daily workshops (2-7 pm) let you experience the magic of creating handcrafted art, making it a truly immersive visit.
The market isn’t just about shopping—it’s an experience. From whimsical stilt performers and barrel organ music, every corner holds something unique.
For kids, the fun never stops with a train ride, farm animals, balloon art, and the playful Star Workshop. Adults will appreciate the exquisite organic cuisine, live music, and the chance to collect the yearly edition mug—a perfect excuse to return every year.
Set against the backdrop of Vienna’s Karlskirche, Art Advent is more than a market; it’s a celebration of Christmas in Vienna filled with charm, creativity, and festive joy for the whole family.
3. Altwiener Christkindl Market [Old Viennese Christmas Market at the Freyung]
- Location: Dominikanerbastei 8, 1010 Vienna, Austria
- Dates: November 15th- December 23rd 2024
- Times: Daily from 10am- 9pm
- Size: 60 Booths
- Website: https://altwiener-markt.at/de/christmas
Vienna’s Old Viennese Christmas Market stands out with its blend of tradition and charity. Celebrating its 35th anniversary, this historic market has been a part of Vienna’s festive season for over 300 years, making it a truly unique experience during your Christmas Markets in Vienna vacation.
With over 60 booths offering everything from dog accessories and greeting cards to handcrafted paper Christmas stars, this market can have all my money! In addition to the great finds for any stationery lover, this market’s commitment to charity sets it apart, with yearly donations collected for a good cause at the Hot Chocolate Stand.
There is a booth here called The Langos Queen, and I watched her hand-make the dough and let it rise for a few hours before frying it. These were hands-down the best Langos we tried in Vienna. Go see the Langos Queen!
For families, the market offers free puppet shows for children starting at 10 am – a perfect way to get into the holiday spirit! Pro tip: get there early for a good spot because this show is popular among the generation Alphas.
4. Weihnachtsmarkt Am Hof [Christmas Market at the Farm]
- Location: Am Hof, 1010 Vienna
- Dates: November 15th- December 23rd 2024
- Times: Monday-Thursday 11am- 9pm, Friday-Sunday 10am- 9pm
- Exceptions: Food served until 10pm
- Size: 70 Booths
- Website: www.weihnachtsmarkt-hof.at
The Christmas Market at Am Hof stands out as one of the most historic markets in Vienna. It is located on a square next to the Old Viennese Christmas Market. Unlike others, Am Hof blends Vienna’s deep-rooted history, focusing on high-quality craftsmanship and sustainability.
With over 70 exhibitors, it offers a carefully curated selection of handmade art, gifts, and antiques, making it the perfect spot for anyone looking for something different this holiday season. When I was there, it really didn’t feel like 70 booths, but I did find a rare stall that sold painted rocks that I had to get for my daughter, which looked just like her new Kitty. I saw a few other unique finds at this market that weren’t at the others.
What sets this market apart is its commitment to charity. The Radio Wien Christmas Market has a strong tradition of giving back, ensuring that your mulled wine or pine punch goes towards a good cause. Plus, the market pioneered eco-friendly practices in Vienna by eliminating disposable cups and introducing a mobile washing system for ceramic mugs, keeping the spirit of sustainability alive.
Visitors can also enjoy an authentic local experience with regional specialties and mulled wine served in collectible Radio Wien mugs, a sought-after souvenir. These won my award for best mug design, which I saw throughout Vienna’s market mugs.
Beyond the shopping and festive treats, the Am Hof Christmas Market maintains its antique market roots, offering a sophisticated mix of art and tradition rarely found at other holiday markets. The iconic Marian column, towering over the square, adds to the charm and history, making this market a place to shop and a piece of Vienna’s past come to life.
5. Winter Market in the Prater at Riesenradplatz
- Location: Riesenradplatz, 1020 Wien, Austria
- Dates: November 16th- January 6, 2025
- Times: Monday- Friday 12pm- 10pm, Saturday- Sunday 11am- 10pm
- Exception: Christmas Eve 10am- 5pm, New Year’s Eve and after 12pm- 2pm
- Website: https://www.wintermarkt.at/en/
Walk the wild side of the Christmas Markets in Vienna at the Prater Winter Market, where festive charm meets the excitement of an amusement park. Located in the iconic Prater, this market has just a few holiday stalls—but it’s filled with thrilling rides, dazzling lights, and live entertainment for all ages.
Unlike traditional markets, the Prater Winter Market combines nostalgic holiday fun with adrenaline-pumping attractions. There’s something for everyone, from the Dizzy Mouse roller coaster to the Giant Ferris Wheel. Enjoy free live concerts spanning genres like gospel, pop, and soul, and visit family-friendly attractions like Madame Tussauds Vienna and Magic World Vienna.
The market’s culinary offerings include mulled wine, apple punch, and organic snacks, while quirky shops offer unique gifts. Special events, such as the Perchten Parade (December 1st) and the arrival of the Coca-Cola Christmas Truck (December 10th), add extra sparkle to the experience.
The Prater Winter Market offers an immersive holiday experience that blends the magic of Christmas with the thrill of a theme park, creating a truly unforgettable celebration.
6. Christmas Village at Stephansplatz [St. Stephans Square]
- Location: Dom zu St. Stephan, 1010 Wien, Österreich
- Dates: November 8th- December 26th 2024
- Times: Daily 11am- 9pm
- Exceptions: Christmas Eve 11am- 4pm, Christmas Day and day after 11am- 7pm
- Size: 40 Booths
- Website: https://www.weihnachtsdorf.at/en_us/
The Stephansplatz Christmas Village is set against the dramatic lighted backdrop of St. Stephen’s Cathedral; this market captures the essence of Christmas Markets in Vienna with its sparkling charm and vibrant atmosphere. The towering Gothic cathedral, with its intricate mosaic roof and majestic spires, creates a picture-perfect setting for over 40 booths, offering handcrafted treasures, artisanal gifts, and indulgent holiday treats.
Visitors can savor Austrian delicacies like Apfelstrudel, savory potato fritters, and the ever-popular Glühwein (mulled wine), perfect for warming up on chilly winter evenings. If you aren’t familiar with the mug process, drink booths will rent out festive mugs for 5€. When you return them, you receive your deposit back, or you can decide to keep your mug as a souvenir.
Live music and seasonal choirs fill the air with festive melodies, while the twinkling lights along nearby Graben and Kärntner Straße amplify the magic of the experience. Don’t miss the chance to attend an advent concert inside the cathedral to complete your evening of seasonal splendor.
*BONUS* Winter in the City at Haas & Haas
- Location: Stephansplatz 4 | 1010 Vienna
- Dates: November 8th- December 31st 2024
- Times: Monday- Thursday 4pm- 8pm, Friday- Sunday 2pm- 8pm
- Exceptions: Christmas Eve Closed
- Website: http://www.winterinthecity.at/
As a bonus, you can also find Haas & Haas tucked behind St. Stephen’s Cathedral, which has a courtyard that offers a cozy winter retreat. Warm up by open fires with handcrafted mulled wine and punch, made fresh with natural ingredients and Jamaican rum. The intimate atmosphere is perfect for hanging out and sipping some beverages, all curated for the ultimate winter experience.
What makes this spot special is its dedication to quality—every drink is made in-house, including the mulled wine, crafted with Austrian wines and perfectly spiced for a festive kick.
7. Christmas Market at Schönbrunn Palace
- Location: Schönbrunner Schloßstraße 47, 1130 Wien, Austria
- Dates: November 8th- January 6, 2025
- Times: Daily 10am- 9pm
- Exception: Christmas Eve 10am- 4pm, Christmas Day and after 10am- 7pm
- Size: 90 Booths
- Website: https://www.imperial-markets.at/maerkte/weihnachtsmarkt-schloss-schoenbrunn
The iconic UNESCO site Schönbrunn Palace provides a stunning backdrop to this Christmas Market, with its façade illuminated by twinkling lights and a towering Christmas tree taking center stage. Visitors can wander among over 90 charming stalls offering handmade crafts, holiday decorations, and unique gifts from local artisans while indulging in seasonal treats like Kaiserschmarren, raclette, and traditional mulled wine.
The scent of freshly baked goods and spiced punch fills the air, creating an enchanting holiday atmosphere. However, from daylight to nightfall, this market felt like the busiest market in Vienna. The crowds were massive, and the lines were long. Read more about our personal experience at Schonbrunn Palace by clicking here.
This year’s market is more family-friendly than ever, though. It features a carousel, Ferris wheel, children’s train, and a free ice skating rink for kids under 14 before 2 p.m.
Adults can enjoy curling lanes or relax at cozy wooden huts adorned with festive garlands. With its carefully curated selection of goods, kid-friendly activities, and a strong emphasis on sustainability, this market is a highlight of Christmas Markets in Vienna. For a truly magical experience, pair your visit with a classical concert in the palace orangery, combining music, history, and holiday cheer in one unforgettable evening.
8. Weihnachtsdorf am Maria Theresien Platz [Christmas Village on Maria Theresa Square]
- Location: Maria-Theresien-Platz, 1010 Wien, Austria
- Dates: November 13th- December 31st 2024
- Times: Sunday- Thursday 11am- 9pm, Friday- Saturday 11am- 10pm
- Exceptions: Christmas Eve 11am- 4pm, Christmas Day- December 30th 11am- 7pm, and New Year’s Eve 11am- 6pm
- Size: 70 Booths
- Website: https://www.weihnachtsdorf.at/en_us/
Experience the enchanting traditions of Christmas Markets in Vienna this holiday season. Make your November or December getaway unforgettable by embracing Austria’s rich holiday traditions. One of Vienna’s enchanting Christmas Villages is in Maria Theresa Square, surrounded by iconic museums and located along the famous Ring Boulevard, which glimmers with dazzling lights during the holiday season.
This charming market features 70 booths brimming with rustic arts and crafts, intricate candle houses, festive decorations, and mouthwatering treats like artisan cheese and salami. At its center stands the impressive monument of Empress Maria Theresa, a visionary leader who transformed the Habsburg Empire into a unified powerhouse. This Christmas Village offers more than shopping—it celebrates history, tradition, and the magic of Christmas in Vienna.
9. Christmas Village Campus University of Vienna – Altes AKH Market
- Location: Campus der Universität Wien (Hof 1), Spitalgasse 2, 1090 Wien, Österreich
- Dates: November 15th- December 23rd, 2024
- Times: Monday- Wednesday 2pm- 10pm, Thursday- Friday 2pm- 11pm, Saturday 11am- 11pm, Sunday 11am- 8pm
- Size: 20-30 Booths
- Website: https://www.weihnachtsdorf.at/en_us/
The Christmas Village at the University of Vienna is a festive gem that blends charm, tradition, and family fun in a setting unlike any other city. Nestled within the historic courtyard of the former General Hospital, now part of the university campus, this market offers a tranquil escape from the city’s bustle. Its cozy atmosphere and unique features make it an attraction that feels more like a holiday-themed kiddie park than just a market.
Families will love the playful touches that make this market magical for kids. A tiny carousel swing, a charming children’s railway, and a living nativity scene excite the little ones. Workshops like gingerbread decorating and letter-writing to Santa add interactive fun.
Adults, meanwhile, can savor mulled wine and punch or explore the market’s curated selection of local crafts and gourmet delights. Y’all can even take part in a game of curling, which looks to be a game you play on the ice and push a large puck across to the other side in some point-generating manner—a great way to create lasting memories with family and friends.
With its serene, star-shaped layout, surrounded by the imperial-era walls, this courtyard market creates a peaceful retreat where visitors can soak in the true spirit of Christmas in Vienna like a local.
Read more about our personal experience at the Christmas Village Campus University of Vienna by clicking here. You will also find more information about what other gems are within walking distance of this market and one of the best restaurants I enjoyed eating at while we were there that’s close by.
10. Christmas Market at Spittelberg
- Location: Spittelberggasse 20/1, 1070 Wien, Austria
- Dates: November 16th- December 23rd 2024
- Times: Monday- Friday 2pm- 9:30pm, Saturday- Sunday 11am- 9:30pm
- Website: https://spittelberg.at/en/
The Spittelberg Christmas Market is so close to a cluster of other markets that it is easy to see this one. Nestled within charming cobblestone alleys, the market offers an enchanting holiday atmosphere filled with unique handmade crafts, gourmet treats, and festive cheer.
The only downside to this market is that the narrow alleys, while charming, don’t offer much traffic space, so it can feel a bit crowded.
What sets this market apart is its eco-conscious approach. Designated as an “eco-event,” the Spittelberg Christmas Market highlights sustainability with vegan and organic options, fairly traded goods, and resource-efficient practices. Visitors can explore stalls filled with artisanal gifts, local wines, handcrafted textiles, and global delights—all curated with the planet in mind. From its romantic setting to its commitment to green values, this beloved market offers an unforgettable holiday experience.
11. Belvedere Palace Christmas Village
- Location: Prinz-Eugen-Straße 27, 1030 Wien, Austria
- Dates: November 15th- December 31st, 2024
- Times: Monday- Friday 11am- 9pm, Saturday- Sunday 10am- 9pm
- Exception: Christmas Eve 11am- 4pm, Christmas Day and after 11am- 7pm, New Years Eve 11am- 6pm
- Size: 40 Booths
- Website: https://www.weihnachtsdorf.at/en_us/
The Christmas Village at Belvedere Palace brings the holidays to life in Vienna with an enchanting blend of history and festive charm. Set against the impressive beauty of the baroque palace, this market offers a serene escape, perfect for couples and families seeking a magical atmosphere. About 40 stalls line the market, offering handcrafted treasures like jewelry, ceramics, and wooden toys—ideal for unique gifts or keepsakes.
Once home to Prince Eugene of Savoy, the palace itself provides a breathtaking backdrop. Housing Gustav Klimt’s iconic The Kiss, it’s a cultural gem that complements the festive charm. Twilight is the perfect time to visit, as the shimmering lights reflect off the palace’s lake, creating a dreamlike scene.
Indulge in Austrian holiday flavors, from Kaiserschmarren and raclette to mulled wine and roasted chestnuts. The intimate setting and historic elegance make this market a standout holiday destination, capturing the essence of Christmas Markets in Vienna.
This market is located further out than most, which makes it challenging to make it if you are short on time.
12. Advent on Gartenpalais Liechtenstein [Garden Palace Liechtenstein]
- Location: Fürstengasse 1, 1090 Vienna
- Dates: November 14th- December 22nd, 2024
- Times: Thursday- Friday 2pm- 9pm, Saturday- Sunday 11am- 9pm
- Size: 15-25 Booths
- Website: https://www.adventimgartenpalais.at/
Located within the stately elegance of the Liechtenstein Garden Palace, the Advent market here stands apart as one of the most unique Christmas markets in Vienna. While many markets lean on tradition or sheer scale, this gem focuses on an intimate, almost whimsical charm. Picture strolling through the grand courtyard and park of the palace, surrounded by cozy, beautifully decorated huts offering seasonal treats and artisan craftsmanship that feels personal and thoughtfully curated. With just enough stalls to make your visit delightfully immersive but not overwhelming, it strikes the perfect balance between festive buzz and relaxed browsing.
The food and drink options alone are worth the visit—piping hot punch and mulled wine, the dramatic Feuerzangenbowle, and indulgent Baumkuchen are just a few highlights that infuse the air with tantalizing scents. For the kids, the historical carousel adds a touch of old-world magic. At the same time, grown-ups can marvel at handcrafted ceramics, traditional nativity scenes, and quirky finds like stuffed animals or bubble waffles. It’s the market where you can quickly check off your gift list while still indulging yourself with wintery delights.
What truly sets this market apart is its atmosphere—cozy yet sophisticated, festive yet unhurried. It feels like a well-kept secret among the Christmas markets in Vienna, offering a quieter, more refined take on the season’s cheer. If the grand halls of the palace aren’t enough to awe you, the warmth of the market’s offerings will.
13. Winter at MQ [Museums Quarter]
- Location: Museumsplatz 1, Wien, Austria
- Dates: November 14th- December 23rd 2024
- Times: Monday- Friday 4pm- 11pm and Saturday- Sunday 2pm- 11pm
- Exceptions: Holidays 2pm- 11pm
- Website: https://www.mqw.at/en/winter-at-mq
The MuseumsQuartier (MQ) Winter Market redefines the festive experience in Vienna, combining holiday cheer with vibrant entertainment for a younger crowd. Unlike traditional markets, MQ’s focus on live music, playful installations, and modern art makes it stand out. The Main Courtyard comes alive with nightly concerts and DJ sets, creating a dynamic atmosphere that feels more like a cultural celebration than a classic Christmas market.
Culinary delights like punch, mulled wine, and seasonal snacks served by MQ’s on-site restaurants complement the fun. Shoppers can browse unique gifts and decorations at MQ Point, which is known for its quirky and creative offerings.
With its lively music, hands-on activities, and artistic flair, the MuseumsQuartier Winter Market offers a fresh take on Christmas Markets in Vienna. It’s a must-visit for those who like to sip and hang out. Plus, it’s a great route from the Christmas Village on Maria Theresa Square to the Christmas Market at Spittelberg.
14. HGM Advent Market at the Museum of Military History
- Location: Arsenal 1, 1030 Wien, Austria
- Dates: November 28th- December 1st, 2024
- Times: Thursday 1pm- 10pm, Friday- Saturday 10am- 10pm, Sunday 10am- 8pm
- Website: https://www.hgm.at/news/details/adventzauber-im-hgm
For a medieval twist on Christmas Markets in Vienna, the HGM Advent Market at the Museum of Military History rises to the challenge. This isn’t your typical Christmas market with sparkling baubles and cookie-cutter souvenirs. Instead, visitors step into a festive scene infused with historical charm, where vendors in medieval attire sell handcrafted metalworks, wood carvings, and rustic crafts. Sword-fighting demonstrations, jugglers, and live music on period instruments bring the era to life, making it an immersive experience for all ages.
The food and drink offerings here also reflect the market’s distinct personality. Freshly prepared medieval-inspired dishes pair perfectly with spiced mead and mulled wine crafted on-site. These drinks deliver authentic flavors rather than the overly sweetened versions in more commercial markets. It’s a cozy, convivial atmosphere made even more magical by open fires and a historical setting.
If you’re visiting with children, the market offers a charming program of crafts and activities, plus a chance to meet Saint Nicholas and the mischievous Krampus. While there’s a small entrance fee, those dressed in historical costumes can join the fun for free.
15. The IKEA Husmas Christmas Experience
- Location: IKEA Wien Westbahnhof Dachterrasse, Ebene 7
- Dates: November 11th- December 23rd, 2024
- Times: Monday- Thursday 4pm- 8pm, Friday- 3- 8pm, Saturday- 2- 6pm
- Website: https://www.ikea.com
The IKEA Husmas Christmas Market brings Swedish Christmas traditions to the rooftop of Vienna. They have cozy huts, live music, and workshops where you can get creative by decorating cookies, making Advent wreaths, and crafting your holiday cards.
It’s the perfect way to soak in the spirit of Christmas in Vienna while enjoying the city’s breathtaking views from above.
Every Saturday, live music fills the air with special performances, from solo piano by Phillip Schröter to an a cappella pop show by Das Wird Super. The festive atmosphere makes this unique Christmas Market in Vienna experience a must-visit for travelers looking for something special during the holiday season.
Write Your Christmas Wish to the Swedish Santa Claus! At the Wish-Hus, IKEA guests can send their Christmas wishes directly to Jultomte, the Swedish Santa Claus. Write down your dream IKEA product and drop it in the wish mailbox — who knows, your wish might just come true!
With exciting activities like this and a beautifully decorated rooftop overlooking Vienna, the Husmas Christmas Experience promises an unforgettable way to celebrate Christmas in Vienna if you have the time.
