Vienna Christmas markets
Vienna's Christmas markets are held in November and December, with most stalls free to enter and the largest market on Rathausplatz.
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Vienna's Christmas markets, called Christkindlmärkte in German, are a fixture of Advent in the Austrian capital. They are held in November and December. Wooden stalls sell food, drink and gifts across the city center and several districts, and most markets are free to enter. The largest one is on Rathausplatz, the square in front of City Hall, and it is also the busiest, especially on weekends and in the evenings.
Several smaller markets sit in other parts of the city, so you can pick another market if the big square is too crowded. Rathaus station on the U2 is the closest metro stop to the largest market, and trams serve the center for the rest of the route.
Ticket prices for the next edition are not out yet. Until they are published, the only entry information here is that most markets are free to enter.
Vienna Christmas markets in short
Vienna's Christmas markets run in November and December. Most are free to enter, and the largest is on Rathausplatz, which is also the busiest, especially on weekends and in the evenings. Take the U2 to Rathaus station or a tram for the closest access.
The Vienna Christmas markets guide
What the markets are
Vienna's Christmas markets are outdoor fairs of wooden stalls held during Advent. Locals call them Christkindlmärkte, a name tied to the Christkind, the gift-bringer of Austrian Advent tradition. The stalls sell food, drink and gifts.
Most markets are free to enter, so most of what you spend goes on food, drink and gifts. A typical visit means walking between stalls, eating something hot, drinking something warm and browsing. Each market is a little different, so visiting more than one gives a fuller picture.
When and how long
The markets are held in November and December. The busiest times are weekends and evenings, so weekday afternoons are the quietest time to visit. Plan a few hours at Rathausplatz, the largest market, which has the most stalls.
Check the organizer's listing for opening hours once they are published. Ticket prices for the next edition are not out yet.
Where the markets are and how to get around
The markets are spread across the city center and several districts. Rathausplatz, the square in front of City Hall, holds the largest. Rathaus station on the U2 is the closest metro stop to it, and trams run through the center to reach several of the other markets.
Schönbrunn Palace, in the Hietzing district, has also hosted a Christmas market in past years. It is a longer ride out, so check the transit route before you go.
Tickets and costs
Most markets are free to enter. Food, drink and gifts are paid for at the stalls, and prices vary from stall to stall.
Ticket prices for the next edition are not out yet, so this guide gives no entry price beyond free entry at most markets.
Where to stay
The Innere Stadt, the first district, is the closest base for walking to Rathausplatz and the central markets. Staying there keeps evening trips short, which matters because evenings are the busiest time.
Districts farther out work well if you plan to use the U2 or trams. Check the connection from your hotel to Rathaus station before you book.
Tips for a first visit
Go on a weekday afternoon if you want room to move, and on a weekend evening if you want to see the largest crowds. Dress warmly, since the markets are outdoors in winter.
Glühwein, the mulled wine, and Punsch, a warm fruit punch, are the traditional warm drinks. Try one at a stall before you buy a gift.
What else is nearby
Rathaus, the City Hall, stands on the largest market square, so you can see the building while you walk the stalls. Stephansdom, the cathedral, is in the first district within walking distance of the central markets.
Schönbrunn Palace, the former Habsburg summer residence, is in the Hietzing district and is reachable by metro.
Where to stay for Vienna Christmas markets
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Vienna Christmas markets FAQ
When are the Vienna Christmas markets?
They are held in November and December.
Are the Christmas markets in Vienna free?
Most markets are free to enter. Ticket prices for the next edition are not out yet.
Which is the largest Christmas market in Vienna?
The largest is on Rathausplatz, in front of City Hall. It is also the busiest on weekends and in the evenings.
How do I get to the Christmas markets?
Take the U2 to Rathaus station, the closest metro stop to the largest market. Trams also run through the city center.
What do the stalls sell?
Outdoor wooden stalls sell food, drink and gifts.