When you think of winter in Europe, one of the cities that best captures that warm, magical atmosphere is Vienna. The Vienna Christmas Markets, in particular, transform the city into a winter wonderland in November and December. Sparkling squares, streets filled with the scent of cinnamon and mulled wine, colourful stalls set up among historic buildings… Vienna is not only known for its markets, but also for its iconic cafés, dazzling New Year’s lights and romantic winter landscapes, making it one of Europe’s most attractive winter destinations. The weather may be cold, but that only adds to the magic, and if it snows, the experience is truly unforgettable. In this article, we’ve compiled a list of the Christmas markets that best capture the Christmas spirit in Vienna and are a must-see.
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Rathausplatz Christkindlmark
Date: 14 November–26 December 2025
One of Vienna’s largest and most famous Christmas markets, the Rathausplatz Christkindlmarkt has been held every year since 1975. However, its origins date back much further, to the 17th century. At the centre of the market stands a large Christmas tree, which is donated each year by a different Austrian municipality. The ice rink here is removed in January or February and replaced with a new one. From January to March, this area is known as the ‘Wiener Eistraum,’ or Vienna’s Ice Dream.
Christkindlmarkt Schloss Belvedere
Date: 14 November–31 December 2025
If you want to experience the New Year’s spirit in a palace atmosphere in Vienna, don’t miss this market in front of Belvedere Palace. Set up in the historic palace gardens, the market looks like something out of a fairy tale. The lights and decorations combine with the palace’s grandeur to create a scene that is too beautiful to capture in photos. The Advent concerts held on Monday and Friday evenings are also a must-see at the market. You can find handmade gifts, jewellery, and decorative items at the wooden stalls; you can also taste mulled wine (Glühwein) and Vienna’s traditional sweets, especially caramelised almonds and gingerbread cookies.
Weihnachtsdorf
Date: 8 November–26 December 2025
The Weihnachtsdorf, set up at Maria-Theresien-Platz, is like a hidden Christmas village between two museums. Offering a more peaceful and intimate atmosphere, the market stands out for its mini funfair and small entertainment areas, especially for families with children. When the evening lights come on, the market becomes truly enchanting, and since it is less crowded than other markets, it is ideal for an evening stroll.
Spittelberg
Date: 14 November–23 December 2025
Spittelberg, one of Vienna’s bohemian and historic neighbourhoods, comes alive with a unique market during the Christmas season. Surrounded by narrow stone streets, historic buildings and romantic lights, this market offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere. You can discover wooden miniatures, handmade ceramics, and decorative objects by local artists; treat yourself to spiced punch, cinnamon buns, and roasted chestnuts. Don’t miss the small-scale live music performances and handmade workshops. Since the market is a bit like a labyrinth, be sure to explore the side streets as well.
Blumengarten Hirschstetten
Date: 13 November–21 December 2025
Blumengarten Hirschstetten brings Vienna’s flower-filled world to Christmas. Among the colourful gardens, you will find stalls selling gifts, creative flower arrangements and decorative plant arrangements. The market also offers handmade floral candles, miniature terrariums, and Christmas decorations made from natural materials. Strolling through the gardens with a cup of hot chocolate in hand is a delightful experience.
Haas & Haas Christkindlmarkt
Date: 14 November–26 December 2025
Set up on Mahlerstraße in front of the Ringstrassen Gallery, the Haas & Haas Christkindlmarkt is more like a food and drink festival. Here you can discover Vienna’s Christmas delicacies as well as gifts. Must-try dishes include warm Ofenerdäpfel (baked potatoes with cheese and cream), Schinkenfleckerl with plenty of cheese and bacon, Germknödel with yeast and vanilla sauce, Leberkäse, a Viennese-style meat sandwich, classic Bratwurst, and Käsekrainer, a sausage filled with cheese.
There are many places to discover and stories to hear in Vienna beyond the Christmas markets. If you want to discover more, be sure to check out our Vienna travel guide.
