Vienna is at its best at Christmas time, when exquisitely decorated shop windows and elegant festive lights illuminate the mediaeval streets in the city centre. This charming city has no shortage of Christmas markets - with over 20 around the city.

From traditional arts and crafts to deliciously tempting gourmet ingredients and festive treats, Vienna’s Christmas markets are complete with a selection of live music and entertainment to create a truly jolly experience. Below we have hand-picked a selection of our favourite Christmas markets in Vienna.

Belvedere Advent Market

One of the most picturesque Christmas markets in Vienna, the Belvedere market sits beneath the illuminated facade of the Belvedere Palace, which is mirrored in the reflecting pool below. This market offers an intimate atmosphere with a broad selection of traditional Austrian handicrafts, choir performances, and delicious roasted chestnuts (maroni).

Christkindlmarkt on the Rathausplatz

Consisting of over 100 stalls, the Rathausplatz Christmas market is one of Vienna’s largest and most famous. The market has the backdrop of the recently renovated, Neo-gothic Rathaus city hall, looking spectacular as it is adorned with Christmas lights. This market can get busy, with its abundance of stalls offering everything from handmade festive decorations, clothing, homeware and cookware. Alongside handcrafted goods, the Rathausplatz market offers a wide selection of festive Austrian delicacies. A warm, hearty meal such as Schinkenfleckerl (a pasta and ham dish) or Käsekrainer (pork sausages with pieces of cheese) is the perfect winter warmer.

Karlsplatz Christmas Market

If you’re looking for something slightly different- the Karlsplatz market specialises in handmade crafts, made by each individual vendor. Strict quality tests are implemented to ensure only well-made crafts are sold here. This market provides an excellent opportunity to find one-of-a-kind types of gifts, while directly supporting local artists and craftspeople. Alongside the market stalls, traditional food and drinks are offered to make this a complete Christmas market.

Altwiener Christkindl Market

Located in Vienna’s picturesque Freyung square, the Altwiener Christmas market offers a traditional Austrian festive experience. An ideal place for those with a particular interest in arts and crafts, the market runs craft demonstrations, puppet shows and children’s programs throughout the advent season. A selection of traditional crafts are sold in the market, as well as mulled wine and hearty Austrian cuisine.

Schönbrunn Market

This market occurs annually, with an illuminated backdrop of the Schönbrunn palace. Offering market stalls, gourmet ingredients and warm, delicious cuisine, this market is complete with a stage for live performances and a large Christmas tree.

The Schönbrunn Market sees a new planning team for 2024. This means it may see changes, such as a new layout as well as a greater focus on children and families.