Winter Markets in Vienna

-This post is updated every year.-

In Vienna, Winter Markets or Christkindlmarkt are held at several iconic locations throughout the city during December. A Christkindlmarkt, also known as a Christmas market or Advent market, is a street market associated with the celebration of Christmas during the Advent season. Originating in Germany in the late Middle Ages, these markets are now held in various countries around the world, especially in Europe.

Every Markt has its own charm and characteristic and you will be surprised at the expanse of what people sell in the booths.

Historical Background

• Origin: The tradition of Christkindlmarkt dates back to the late pagan Middle Ages in the German-speaking parts of Europe.
• Name: “Christkindl” means “Christ Child” in German, referring to the traditional gift-bringer in some parts of Europe.

Key Features

1. Stalls and Booths:
   • Handicrafts and Gifts: Vendors sell handmade crafts, ornaments, wooden toys, and other gift items.
   • Food and Drink: Traditional festive foods such as bratwurst, gingerbread, roasted chestnuts, and pretzels are common. Hot drinks like Glühwein (mulled wine), hot chocolate, and punch are also popular.
2. Decorations:
   • Festive Lights and Decor: Markets are adorned with twinkling lights, Christmas trees, and festive decorations, creating a magical and festive atmosphere.

3. Entertainment:

   • Live Music and Performances: Carolers, choirs, and musical performances are a staple at many markets.
   • Activities for Children: Many markets feature activities such as ice skating rinks, carousel rides, and at times a mini ferris wheel.

4. Community and Tradition:

   • Social Gathering: Christkindlmarkts serve as a place for community gathering and celebration, bringing together locals and tourists alike.
   • Cultural Tradition: They preserve and showcase local traditions, crafts, and culinary specialties.

Locations and Popularity

• Germany and Austria: These countries host some of the most famous Christkindlmarkts, including those in Nuremberg, Munich, Dresden, Vienna, and Salzburg.
• Expansion: The tradition has spread to other European countries and beyond, with cities like Strasbourg, Prague, and Budapest hosting notable markets. Even cities in the United States and Canada now have Christmas markets inspired by the European tradition.

Atmosphere

• • Festive and Cozy: The overall ambiance of a Christkindlmarkt is one of warmth and festivity, with the scent of mulled wine and roasted nuts filling the air, the sound of carolers and festive music, and the sight of beautifully lit stalls and decorations.

Here are some of the most popular areas in Vienna for December Markets:

Rathausplatz (Vienna City Hall)

Address: Friedrich-Schmidt-Platz 1, 1010 Vienna

Description: This is the largest and most famous winter market in Vienna, featuring over 150 stalls offering a variety of gifts, decorations, and food. The City Hall itself is beautifully illuminated, and there is also an ice rink and a children’s area.

Open : November 16 until December 26

Our Recommended Stay : Hotel Pension Lehrerhaus

Schönbrunn Palace

Address: Schönbrunner Schloßstraße 47, 1130 Vienna

Description: Set in the picturesque grounds of the Schönbrunn Palace, this market offers high-quality handicrafts, traditional seasonal decorations, and gourmet treats. The backdrop of the palace makes it a very festive and regal setting.

Open : November 8 until January 6

Our Recommended Stay : DoubleTree by Hilton Vienna Schönbrunn

Belvedere Palace

Address: Prinz-Eugen-Straße 27, 1030 Vienna

Description: Located in front of the stunning Belvedere Palace, this market is known for its artisanal products and elegant atmosphere. It’s a smaller, more intimate market compared to some others.

Open : November 15 until December 31

Our Recommended Stay : Novum Hotel Congress and Hotel NH Wien Belvedere

Maria-Theresien-Platz

Address: Maria-Theresien-Platz, 1010 Vienna

Description: Situated between the Kunsthistorisches Museum and the Natural History Museum, this market offers a mix of crafts, food, and drink, with a festive ambiance and beautiful decorations.

Open : November 13 until December 31

Our Recommended Stay : Hotel Admiral

Stephansplatz (St. Stephen’s Square)

Address: Stephansplatz, 1010 Vienna

Description: This market is located right next to St. Stephen’s Cathedral in the heart of Vienna. It’s smaller but offers a charming atmosphere with a focus on traditional Austrian products.

Open : November 8 until December 26

Our Recommended Stay : Boutique Hotel Nossek

Spittelberg

Address: Spittelberggasse, 1070 Vienna

Description: This market is set in a historic quarter with narrow, winding streets. It’s known for its arts and crafts, as well as its cozy, intimate feel.

Open : November 16 until December 23

Our Recommended Stay : K+K Hotel Maria Theresia

Altes AKH (Old General Hospital)

Address: Alser Straße 4, 1090 Vienna

Description: This market, also known as the Christmas Village, is popular with families and students. It features an ice skating rink and a variety of stalls with gifts, food, and drinks.

Open : November 15 until December 23

Karlsplatz

Address: Karlsplatz, 1040 Vienna

Description: Located in front of the beautiful Karlskirche (St. Charles Church), this market focuses on arts and crafts, offering a range of handmade items and a delightful festive experience.

Open : November 15 until December 23

Our Recommended Stay : Hotel Am Konzerthaus Vienna & Holiday Inn Vienna City

Each of these markets provides a unique atmosphere and a variety of offerings, making Vienna a magical place to visit in the winter season. Enjoy your stay!

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