Vienna Christmas Markets: Where Viennese Christmas Dreams Come True

Vienna Christmas markets combine time-honored traditions, timeless treasures, and twinkle aplenty. These magical markets are the real-life places where Viennese Christmas dreams come true.

The holiday enchantment is open, available, and accessible to all – locals and tourists, families with children, friends, and couples alike.

The annual holiday extravaganzas begin in the Advent season of mid-to-late November and run through December. Some markets then extend the magic of Christmas into the New Year.

Let’s discover the royal Viennese Christmas heritage, starting with a quick historical overview.

Next, let’s discover where to see the romantic Viennese Christmas lights, decorations, and trees. And explore the rich Viennese Christmas traditions.

Then we’ll visit the best Vienna Christmas markets. Learn when these Vienna Christmas markets open and close. And which markets extend the magic of Christmas into the New Year.

Paul is Spotlight Sojourns’ mapmaker, as well as photographer and FAA-certified, FAA-licensed drone pilot. So you’ll find his custom maps of Vienna destinations and locations in this article.

As well as firsthand observations, personal recommendations, and travel tips from our own slow travel experiences during Christmas in Vienna.

Now, let’s wander in wonder together through the legendary Vienna Christmas markets.

Ready? Let’s go!

When you book or purchase through some links, Spotlight Sojourns may earn a small commission at no cost to you. Thanks for using our affiliate links!

Christmas in Vienna: A Real Viennese Christmas Romance

Christmas in Vienna is more than a beloved romantic Hallmark movie. Because Christmas in Vienna is a real-life romantic experience during the holiday season.

Quite simply, Christmas in Vienna is divinely romantic. It’s a special season to fall in love with the city, the celebration, and the meaning of Christmas.

Vienna winter is undeniably dreamy, especially in the festive season. Cloaked in snow and aglow with myriad lights, Vienna transforms into a true winter wonderland.

And the swoon-worthy ambiance of Viennese Christmas inspires an irresistible and enduring enchantment.

In our personal opinion, the Viennese Christmas tradition undoubtedly rates among the reasons why The Economist named Vienna the World’s Most Livable City multiple times.

Guided tours are a wonderful way to experience the seasonal sparkles and splendors of Christmas in Vienna.

We recommend walking tours as the best way to see the Vienna Christmas lights, holiday decorations, and Christmas trees in Stephansplatz and Kaertnerstrasse. Because St. Stephens Square and Kaertner Street are pedestrian zones.

The following are must-see highlights of the magical Viennese holiday season.

Viennese Christmas Lights and Sights

Vienna Christmas Lights

Fairytale lights add fabulous sparkle and festive shine throughout Christmas in Vienna.

During the day, the lights discreetly elevate the holiday spirit and amplify the holiday cheer.

At night, the Christmas lights dazzle like precious diamonds set against the black velvet sky.

Vienna Christmas lights at night are a must-see sight, particularly the glittering chandeliers suspended block after block above Kärntnerstrasse.

Vienna’s prime people-watching zone and poshest shopping area, the Kaertnerstrasse pedestrian zone starts at St. Stephen’s Cathedral on Stephansplatz.

Kaertnerstrasse then ends on the Ringstrasse at the Staatsoper Vienna State Opera House on Karlsplatz.

Address: Kaertnerstrasse (Kärntnerstrasse) | 1010 Vienna, Austria

Vienna Christmas Decorations

Elaborate Christmas decorations ornament buildings everywhere, both magnificent monuments and modern architecture alike.

Larger-than-life Christmas bows wrap the exteriors of entire buildings. Chic boutiques, department stores, souvenir shops, and sidewalk kiosks deck the halls to the hilt.

The huge ruby-red light-studded bow on Popp and Kretschmer, for example, is one of the most instagrammable places for Vienna Christmas decorations.

Address: Popp & Kretschmer Mode | Kärntnerstrasse 51 | 1010 Vienna, Austria

Vienna Christmas Trees

Grand Christmas trees flourish in city parks, public squares, churches, concert halls, restaurants, cafes, hotels, and homes across Vienna.

Festive wreaths, garlands, and boughs adorn doors, railings, and mantels abundantly, further underscoring the Christmas tree theme.

Despite all the green splendor citywide, however, one Viennese Christmas tree notably rises above all others.

The biggest Christmas tree in Vienna proudly stands in the vast expanse of City Hall Square (Rathausplatz).

Each year since 1959, a different Austrian province, or the South Tyrol Italian province, presents the towering Rathausplatz Christmas tree to the national capital.

Address: City Hall Square | Rathausplatz | 1010 Vienna, Austria

Viennese Christmas Traditions and Treasures

Medieval and imperial heritage notwithstanding, contemporary Vienna Christmas markets now blend history and modernity, tradition and innovation, artistry and authenticity.

From the First District of Innere Stadt, the ancient city center, and throughout the 23 Vienna districts, you’ll discover a diverse range of Christmas villages and vibes.

Given that marvelous wealth of choices, you’ll generally find most Viennese Christmas markets feature certain similarities such as:

• Market stalls selling traditional handicrafts, unique gifts, toys, and ornaments.
• Food stands selling delicious treats and holiday drinks both for kids and adults.
• Drinks such as hot chocolate with whipped cream (Schlag), Christmas punch, and mulled wine (Glühwein).
• Traditional Gluhwein is yummy mulled wine spiced with cinnamon, sugar, cloves, and orange. It’s also available with non-alcoholic wine.
• Live music and entertainment, both sacred and secular performances.
• Christmas lights, Christmas trees, and Christmas decorations galore.
• Nativity sets, Nativity stories, and sometimes living Nativity scenes.

Speaking of mulled wine, you can purchase the small ceramic ‘Christmas stockings’ the wine is served in. The super-cute Christmas mugs make super collectible keepsakes!

Furthering your fa-la-la fun, we highly recommend visiting a Vienna coffee house before or after your Christmas market adventures.

Since the 19th century, cafes and coffee house culture have been indispensable to Viennese life. They continue to be important and relevant in 21st-century life, too.

Whether you prefer coffee, tea, or hot chocolate, a grand cafe complements your Viennese Christmas experience delightfully. And a classic Austrian dessert, of course, completes your visit delectably.

You’ll find recommendations and custom maps of famous Viennese coffee houses, hidden gems, and modern coffee shops in our guide to the best cafes in Vienna.

Districts in Vienna Map

Viennese Christmas magic abounds in the Austrian capital, a city of 23 numbered and named municipal districts. Each of the 23 Vienna districts are distinctive neighborhoods.

Since the Middle Ages, the heart of Vienna and Austria has always been the First District, Innere Stadt. The entire Vienna Inner City is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Christmas in Vienna begins in the First District. The biggest and best Viennese Christmas Markets are thus located here. As well as the oldest Vienna Christmas market, operating since 1772.

Map of Christmas Markets, Vienna: Interactive Map

Best Vienna Christmas Markets: First District

The following opening dates and closing dates of the Vienna Christmas markets are current at this time of publication. This information has been confirmed directly with each event organization.

When planning to visit on particular days or times, please be aware that dates, opening hours, and daily operations are subject to change without notice due to weather and other conditions.

Ready to visit Vienna’s best of the best? Bundle up, and let’s go!

Map of Vienna Christmas Markets: First District

Viennese Christmas Market on Rathausplatz (Wiener Christkindlmarkt)

At the world-famous Viennese Christmas Market (Wiener Christkindlmarkt), modern and medieval meet in City Hall Square (Rathausplatz).

Home of the landmark Vienna City Hall (Rathaus), Rathausplatz, not surprisingly, hosts the biggest Christmas market in Vienna.

Completed in 1883, Rathaus is the city’s official seat of government. The elaborate neo-Gothic landmark presides in epic style over Rathausplatz and the Ringstrasse.

Besides the iconic Gothic Revival architecture, another iconic symbol here links medieval and modern eras: Rathausmann.

Rathausmann is a bronze statue of a medieval knight, 18 feet (5.4 m) tall. He maintains an eternal vigilant guard from his lofty flagpole perch atop Rathaus.

So, look up at the Tower, 321 feet (98 m) high. Wave hello to the noble knight. Then, keep watch for a replica Rathausmann statue within Rathauspark.

Best Things to Do at Viennese Christmas Market on Rathausplatz

When visiting Vienna’s main Christmas market, established in Rathausplatz since 1975, you may certainly enter this extensive holiday event at any access point.

As you can imagine, there’s so much to do, see, and taste at the biggest Christmas market in Vienna. Still, you’ll not want to miss these signature activities:

Take an instagrammable photo at the impressive entrance arch in front of City Hall – definitely an instaworthy backdrop!

Ride the classic two-tiered carousel, a colorful addition enhancing the enchantment. The carousel debuted for the 2022 Advent season and became an instant hit.

Browse and shop at the abundant market stalls, where you’ll find gift items for almost any budget. And stop at the food stands for treats and drinks to tickle the palate.

Skate at the Small Viennese Ice Dream (Kleiner Eistraum), another unique activity at the Viennese Christmas Market.

First opened in 2016, this outdoor ice skating rink has become a treasured tradition on City Hall Square.

Rental ice skates, helmets, and stand-up skating aids are available on-site.

Viennese Christmas Market on City Hall Square: Dates

The Viennese Christmas Market on Rathausplatz on November 14th, 2025.

The Viennese Christmas Market on Rathausplatz Square closes on December 26th, 2025.

Small Viennese Ice Dream on City Hall Square: Dates

The Small Viennese Ice Dream at the Viennese Christmas Market opens on November 14th, 2025.

The Small Viennese Ice Dream at the Viennese Christmas Market closes on January 6th, 2026.

Address: Viennese Christmas Market (Wiener Christkindlmarkt) | Rathausplatz | 1010 Vienna, Austria

Best Coffee House for the Best Vienna Christmas Market: Cafe Landtmann

Since 1873, Cafe Landtmann has been the ultimate elegant choice for stylish locals, as well as sophisticated tourists in the know.

The central location is within easy walking distance of the Viennese Christmas Market on City Hall Square, as well as the Viennese Ice Dream.

Address: Café Landtmann | Universitätsring 4 | 1010 Vienna, Austria

Vienna Ice World, the Viennese Ice Dream (Wiener Eistraum)

Following the New Year, an astonishing and indeed amazing metamorphosis occurs in Rathausplatz.

From mid-to-late January until late February or early March, the old town square Rathausplatz transforms into Vienna Ice World, the Viennese Ice Dream (Wiener Eistraum).

The Viennese Ice Dream is a winter market and an outdoor ice skating experience unlike any other.

Covering almost 91,500 square feet (8,500 m2) on two levels, the Viennese Ice Dream encompasses multiple outdoor ice skating rinks.

The show-stopping centerpiece is the terraced Sky Rink, with spectacular views. There’s also a quiet, small rink exclusively for young children learning to ice skate.

Still, the Viennese Ice Dream expands the fantastical, dreamy vision far beyond these skating rinks.

The Traumpfade Dream Paths are romantic ice skating trails approximately 1,640 feet (500 m) in total length.

These Dream Paths carve a stunning “icescape” between Rathausplatz and Burgtheater and up to the Parliament Building.

During the daytime and at night, theatrical lighting and live entertainment contribute to one of the most exquisite open-air skating environments in the world.

This frozen storybook setting is yet another Viennese Winter romantic dream come true.

Vienna Ice World, the Viennese Ice Dream: Dates

The Viennese Ice Dream opens in Rathausplatz on January 22nd, 2026. Weather and conditions permitting, of course.

The Viennese Ice Dream closes on March 8th, 2026. Once again, weather and conditions allowing.

Address: Vienna Ice World, the Viennese Ice Dream (Wienereistraum) | Rathausplatz | 1010 Vienna, Austria

Christmas Village on Stephansplatz

Celebrate the sacred season amidst Gothic glory at the Christmas Village on St. Stephen’s Square (Weihnachtsdorf Stephansplatz).

St. Stephen’s Square (Stephansplatz) is the geographical center of Vienna and the nation, both literally and figuratively.

Constructed from the 12th century to the 16th century, Stephen’s Cathedral (Stephansdom) and its mighty bell towers are the symbol of Vienna and the heart of Austria.

When strolling through the superbly decorated market stalls, take note of the high-quality handicrafts and original gifts from across Austria.

Many artisans place a gentle emphasis on spiritual themes and sacred designs.

Either before or after your visit to the Christmas Village on St. Stephen’s Square, we suggest a visit to St. Stephen’s Cathedral itself.

For centuries, the cathedral has been a leading center for worship, music, and views.

Speaking of phenomenal views, you can take a small modern elevator up to the North Tower, 224 feet (68 m) above the city center.

The South Tower, 446 feet (136 m) high, does require climbing 343 steps up a narrow spiral staircase. And then, of course, climbing back down those same 343 steps.

Christmas Village on St. Stephen’s Square: Dates

The Christmas Village on St. Stephen’s Square opens on November 8th, 2025.

The Christmas Village on St. Stephen’s Square closes on December 26th, 2025.

Address: Christmas Village on St. Stephen’s Square (Weihnachtsdorf Stephansplatz) | Stephansplatz | 1010 Vienna, Austria

Christmas Village on Maria-Theresien-Platz

Special Note: The Christmas Village on Maria-Theresia Square will remain closed during the 2025 Christmas season, and also during the 2026 Christmas season. This closure is due to significant redesign and reconstruction of the museum entrances. Both museums are slated to remain open to visitors during the extensive work.

Rejoice in the regal richness of the Christmas Village on Maria Theresia Square (Weihnachtsdorf Maria-Theresien-Platz).

Festivities take place under the watchful gaze of Maria Theresia, Holy Roman Empress, Archduchess of Austria, Queen of Bohemia, Hungary, Croatia, Milan, and others.

Empress Maria Theresa continues her 18th-century reign over 21st-century Vienna from atop a 19th-century monumental fountain in Maria-Theresien-Platz.

Opposite the memorial fountain, the Kunsthistoriches Art History Museum and Naturhistoriches Natural History Museum seemingly mirror one another across the expansive square.

The contrasting aesthetic is dramatic between the traditional wooden stalls and the royal grandeur. And the overall experience is delightful.

Additionally, if your travel schedule permits, we recommend visiting either the Kunsthistoriches Museum or the Naturhistoriches Museum.

Besides the impeccable collections, the Grand Staircase and the Museum Cafe in each museum are absolutely gorgeous.

Christmas Village on Maria-Theresia Square: Dates

As noted above, the Christmas Village on Maria-Theresia Square is expected to remain closed both for the 2025 and 2026 Christmas seasons.

The Christmas Village closure is due to the major renovation and reconstruction of the entrances to the Kunsthistoriches Art History Museum and the Naturhistoriches Natural History Museum.

Although this news is certainly disappointing for this festive season, let’s imagine how amazing it will be when the Christmas Village on Maria-Theresia Square reopens for the 2027 Christmas season!

Address: Christmas Village of Maria Theresa Square | Maria-Theresien-Platz | 1010 Vienna, Austria

Old Viennese Christmas Market on Freyung (Altwiener Christkindlmarket)

Dating from 1772, the Old Viennese Christmas Market (Altwiener Christkindlmakt) is the oldest Christmas market in Vienna.

Thus the historic Old Viennese Christmas Market on Freyung truly lives up to its name.

This quaint Christmas market offers a quiet and cozy option to the bustle of bigger Christmas villages.

Besides traditional craft and culinary stalls, a unique farmers’ market offers a wide array of fresh produce, as well as local delicacies and regional specialties.

The historic Old Viennese Christmas Market also offers another unique aspect: a notable Nativity scene that’s 150 feet (46 m) long.

This hand-painted Nativity panel encloses the outer boundary and faces the street.

Its sweet storytelling of Mary, Joseph, and the Christ Child Jesus charms market-goers and passers-by alike.

Afterward, warmly bundled up from head to toe, you’re well-positioned to wander the cobblestone streets and intriguing alleys of Old Town Vienna.

Old Viennese Christmas Market on Freyung: Dates

The Old Viennese Christmas Market on Freyung opens on November 14th, 2025.

The Old Viennese Christmas Market on Freyung closes on December 23rd, 2025.

Address: Old Viennese Christmas Market on Freyung (Altwiener Christkindlmarkt) | Freyung | 1010 Vienna, Austria

Best Vienna Christmas Markets: Other Districts

In the same way that you have wonderful choices where to stay in Vienna, you also have many delightful Christmas markets to visit citywide!

Beyond the 19th-century Ringstrasse or Ring Road encircling the historic city center, districts throughout the city host Vienna Christmas markets.

Some are within walking distance, others are an easy ride away on the Vienna public transport system.

Winter Market at Riesenradplatz Prater

For centuries, Vienna’s year-round address for Fun – yes, that’s right, Fun with a capital “F” – is Prater Vienna and its iconic Giant Ferris Wheel Riesenrad, built in 1897.

For the last 16 years, Vienna has rocked Festive Fun at the Winter Market (Wintermarkt) on Riesenrad Square (Riesenradplatz).

Live concerts are a signature of the Winter Market at Riesenradplatz.

The programming offers music for everyone: Christmas music and Gospel. Blues, Soul, and Swing. Disco, Pop, Rock, and even Reggae.

And, of course, an exciting New Year’s Eve Concert rings in the New Year in only-in-Vienna style.

Like other Christmas markets, the Prater Winter Market offers free admission. And the awesome Winter Market concerts are also free admission.

Of course, the good times rock around the clock – or rather, around the year – with the rides and attractions at the Prater amusement park (Würstelprater).

And you surely must see the glittering views of Viennese Christmas dreams come true from the fully enclosed and heated wagons of the Giant Ferris Wheel.

These restored wooden wagons soar 212 feet (64.7 m) high.

Prater Winter Market at Riesenrad Square: Dates

The Winter Market at Riesenrad Square opens, and the first concert takes place on November 21st, 2025.

The Winter Market at Riesenradplatz closes, and the last concert takes place on January 6th, 2026.

Prater Winter Market Concerts at Riesenrad Square: Hours

Live concert performances at the Winter Market are Wednesdays through Sundays, from 7:00 pm to 8:30 pm (19:00 to 20:30).

Please note the following exceptions to the performance schedule:

• Christmas Eve Concert on December 24th, 2025, from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm (13:00 to 15:00).
• New Year’s Eve Concert on December 31, 2025, from 8:00 pm (20:00) to 2:00 am (02:00) on January 1st, 2025.
• New Year’s Day broadcast of the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra Concert on January 1st, 2026, starting at 11:00 am

Address: Winter Market at Riesenrad Square (Wintermarkt Riesenradplatz) | Prater Wien | Riesenradplatz 2 | 1020 Vienna, Austria

Christmas Village at Belvedere Palace

Revel in the palatial pleasures of the Christmas Village at Belvedere Palace (Weihnachtsdorf Schloss Belvedere) in Landstraße, the Third District.

Belvedere Palace is actually two 18th-century palaces, Upper Belvedere and Lower Belvedere. Elegant terraced gardens connect the two Baroque palaces.

Following your Christmas village visit, we strongly suggest staying longer at Belvedere Palace if possible. After all, the Belvedere Museums showcase world-class Austrian art.

Upper Belvedere displays the largest Gustav Klimt collection in the world – including Klimt’s masterpiece, The Kiss.

Egon Schiele, Edvard Munch, and other great Austrian artists from the Middle Ages to Viennese Modernism complete the Belvedere collections.

Christmas Village at Belvedere Palace: Dates

The Christmas Village at Belvedere Palace opens on November 11th, 2025.

The Christmas Village at Belvedere Palace closes on New Year’s Eve, December 31st, 2025.

Address: Christmas Village at Belvedere Palace (Weihnachtsdorf Schloss Belvedere) | Schloss Belvedere | Prinz-Eugen-Strasse 27 | 1030 Vienna, Austria

Art Advent Market at Karlsplatz

Reveal one-of-a-kind treasures at the Art Advent Market on St. Charles Square (Karlsplatz) in Wieden, the Fourth District.

The Art Advent Market on Karlsplatz focuses on handmade arts, crafts, and creators. All are arrayed against the singular backdrop of St. Charles Church (Karlskirche).

Paintings, textiles, glassware, jewelry, and woodwork are some of the fine craftsmanship available here.

Different artisans often conduct on-site workshop demonstrations. Fascinating to watch their creative process in action!

Along with high-caliber handicrafts on offer, Art Advent Market also engages a sense of childlike wonder.

Professional performing artists infuse warmth and welcome as they interact with Art Advent Market visitors.

An organ grinder delights the young and young at heart as he plays his old-fashioned instrument.

The Christmas spirit here is quite special – more intimate and organic, less crowded and commercial. We felt a bit like young kids who eagerly open each tiny window on Advent calendars until the Holy Child’s birth.

Next, if your travel plans allow, we recommend visiting Karlskirche.

Its celestial white and gold interior is unlike other Viennese churches. You can also ascend to the Panoramic Terrace showcasing spectacular views.

Art Advent Market on Karlsplatz: Open Dates

The Art Advent Market on Karlsplatz opens on November 21st, 2025.

The Art Advent Market on Karlsplatz closes on December 23rd, 2025.

Address: Art Advent Market on Karlsplatz | Karlsplatz 13 | 1040 Vienna, Austria

Christmas Market at Schönbrunn Palace

Immerse yourself in imperial inspiration at the Christmas Market Schönbrunn Palace (Weihnachtsmarkt Schloss Schönbrunn) in Hietzing, the 13th District.

Schoenbrunn Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Rococo palace coupled with the Baroque gardens.

UNESCO recognized the outstanding imperial architecture and essentially intact lifestyle of the Habsburg dynasty.

Schönbrunn Palace was formerly the sublime summer residence for royals such as Empress Maria Theresa, Emperor Franz Joseph, and Empress Elisabeth, fondly known as Sisi.

In these modern times, the unparalleled ambiance of Schoenbrunn Palace is no less impressive in winter.

It’s one of the top three perennially popular tourist attractions in the Austrian capital. A must-visit major attraction all year round.

So, we applaud the fact that the Christmas Market at Schönbrunn Palace offers free admission. Like other Christmas markets, it’s open, available, and accessible to all.

The Schonbrunn Christmas Market offers favorite attractions and fun surprises for all ages. In addition to innovations such as an energy-free artificial ice rink and the ice stock game, similar to curling.

Then, for even more magic, more beauty, and more time at Schönbrunn Palace, consider a palace tour. Or perhaps attend the renowned dinner and evening concert.

It’s sure to be the most magical, beautiful, and special Viennese holiday season ever!

Christmas Market at Schonbrunn Palace: Dates

The Christmas Market at Schönbrunn Palace opens on November 6th, 2025.

The Christmas Market at Schönbrunn Palace closes on January 6th, 2026.

Address: Christmas Market at Schönbrunn Palace (Weihnachtsmarkt Schloss Schönbrunn) | Schloss Schönbrunn | Schönbrunner Schlosstrasse 47 | 1130 Vienna, Austria

Travel Tips to Visit Vienna Christmas Markets

Vienna Transportation

Vienna’s excellent and extensive public transportation system whisks you from the First District of Innere Stadt basically anywhere and everywhere in Vienna.

Public transportation is timely, safe, easy, efficient, clean, and comfortable. Trains, trams, and trolleys are heated, another key consideration in wintertime!

Private transfers, taxis, and ride-sharing services are additional transportation options – minus the parking concerns of rental cars.

Finally, ground transportation is a great inclusion on many tours.

Vienna City Card

We choose to use the award-winning Vienna City Card on our visits to Vienna. One simple card replaces numerous tickets for subways, local trains, trams, and buses.

This essential card makes it even easier, efficient, and affordable to use the entire Vienna public transport network. It’s the ticket to unlimited free travel throughout the capital.

Helpful and valuable, the Vienna City Card combines several benefits into one easy-to-use card:

• Unlimited free public transport for 24 hours, 48 hours, or 72 hours upon activation.
• A 24-hour Hop-On/Hop-Off city tour ticket.
• Dining and shopping discounts, as well as other benefits.

Vienna Christmas Weather

Cold, rainy, and snowy can describe the weather in Vienna during the Christmas market season. Obviously, temperatures decrease while rain and snow increase from November to December and January.

Regardless of winter sun, rain, or snow, the Christmas market festivities occur outdoors.

So, the best idea is to dress in layers topped with a warm winter coat or jacket. It’s also a good idea to wear warm socks – we’re big fans of merino wool socks in all weather.

In addition, winter boots or waterproof shoes, a toque or hat, mittens or gloves will help keep you cozy.

Lastly, packing a sturdy foldable travel umbrella is always a great idea whenever you travel, whether visiting Vienna or elsewhere.

Planning and packing for winter weather is surely one of the essential holiday travel safety tips.

The Oldest Christmas Markets in Europe

Several European cities have held Christmas markets for centuries. Records date the oldest Christmas markets in Europe to the 15th century and the 13th century.

Not surprisingly, the three oldest European Christmas markets are closely connected by geography, language, and royalty.

Records date the oldest Christmas market in Germany to Dresden, which first held its now world-famous Dresdener Striezelmarkt in 1434.

Later in the 15th century, the Salzburger Christkindlmarkt debuted in Salzburg, Austria. The Salzburg Christmas Market remains equally important and renowned in a similar manner to Dresden.

Even earlier, in 1384, Wenceslas IV, King of Bohemia and Germany, proclaimed an Advent market in Bautzen, Germany.

However, the European city with the oldest Christmas market tradition is arguably Vienna, documented to the late 13th century.

In December 1296, Albrecht I, Duke of Austria and later King of Germany, decreed the first Krippenmarkt Nativity Market in medieval Vienna.

Today, more than 725 years later, the Weihnachtsmärkte, Viennese Christmas markets, remain an essential and authentic experience in this extraordinary city.

Vienna Christmas Markets: In Conclusion

Upholding centuries of traditions in an imperial city, Vienna Christmas markets rank among the very best in Austria and, indeed, in Europe.

Discover the real-life romance of Viennese Christmas traditions and celebrations here:

From the sacred setting of St. Stephen’s Cathedral in Stephansplatz and St. Charles Church in Karlsplatz…

Against the majestic backdrops of Hofburg Imperial Palace and Schönbrunn Palace…

Amidst the lively atmosphere of the Prater Wien and the Giant Ferris Wheel…

To the famous Christkindlmarkts in Rathausplatz and Freyung, blending medieval legacy and modern life.

So, come visit Vienna at the most wonderful time of the year: the joyous holiday season from Advent to Christmas and New Year.

Come explore, experience, and be inspired by the storybook scenes and fairytale festivities in the Austrian capital city.

Because Christmas in Vienna is a meaningful and magical time to embrace romantic and real Viennese Christmas dreams come true.

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Viennese Christmas Sources and Resources

Christmas in Vienna. Directed by Maclain Nelson, starring Sarah Drew and Brennan Elliott, Hallmark, 2020.

Djinis, Elizabeth, “A Brief History of Christmas Markets.” Smithsonian Magazine, December 19, 2022.

Michelin, Streetwise Vienna Map: Laminated City Center Street Map of Vienna, Austria. Michelin Streetwise Maps, 2023.

Rosetta Stone, German Language Instruction Software: Learn Unlimited Languages with Lifetime Access. Rosetta Stone, 2019.

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GET: Now that you’re ready to visit Vienna Christmas markets, get your exclusive free storytelling guide to tell your travel stories easily.

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All opinions expressed are Spotlight Sojourns’ own.

All content and images are original, created with care by yours truly, Marilee Kostadimas and Paul Kostadimas. We’re the Hidden Gemologists® of Spotlight Sojourns: Award-winning travel experts and slow travel storytellers. Because slow travel is meaningful travel, part of a meaningful life. And stories enrich the meaning.

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