The most beautiful Christmas markets in Vienna

There is so much to discover in Vienna in December; it's no coincidence that the pre-Christmas period is the most popular season for tourists to visit Vienna.

With so many Christmas events and markets to choose from, it's often hard to know where to start. That's why we've compiled a list of our favorites from all the Christmas markets, mulled wine stalls, and events. Even the biggest Christmas Grinch will get into the festive spirit!

1. Old Viennese Christmas Market

On November 16th , the Old Viennese Christmas Market on Freyung Square in front of the Schottenkirche (Scottish Church) will reopen its doors. The market will be open daily from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM until December 23rd . The motto of this traditional Christmas market is "enjoy with all your senses." Although its size may seem modest compared to other Christmas markets in Vienna, there is all the more culture and craftsmanship to discover. Numerous culinary delights, high-quality handicrafts, and cultural activities for all ages make this market truly special . The first Advent weekend will be celebrated with pre-Christmas music and a children's program on the stage. Following this, there will be a cultural program on the stage every week, including pre-Christmas carols and Advent choral music. For the little ones, Punch, Judy, and other characters will perform on stage. In addition, numerous workshops will be offered for the particularly creative , where they can admire skilled craftsmanship up close. Thanks to the wide range of offerings, there is something for everyone at this market! You can find more information about this market here .

2nd Christmas Village on the Campus of the University of Vienna

As every year, the Christmas Village will take place from November 16th in the park of the old Vienna General Hospital (AKH). Among the festively decorated trees and the old walls of the imperial-era hospital, now a campus of the University of Vienna, visitors of all ages can discover a variety of Christmas delights . Not only the nativity scene and the carousel will delight the little ones, but the Christmas train is also a highlight . For adults, in addition to the selection of Christmas decorations and gifts, there is a wide variety of punch and mulled wine stalls and other treats. For the more active visitors, there is even an ice rink for curling . And if the action in the Christmas Village isn't enough, or if it gets particularly chilly, the numerous restaurants and cafés around the market offer a warm refuge. You can find all further information here .

3rd Christmas Quarter

Every year on the first weekend, alongside "Winter im MQ," the Christmas Quarter takes place between the museums in the 7th district. This year, on Friday, November 29th, from 2 pm to 8 pm, on Saturday, November 30th, from 10 am to 8 pm, and on Sunday, December 1st, from 10 am to 6 pm, the doors will once again open to visitors who find the kitschy Christmas markets a bit much. Unlike traditional Christmas markets, here artists exhibit their unusual, one-of-a-kind creations . Various materials, such as glass, wood, and ceramics, are transformed into wonderful designer pieces, offering Christmas gifts that are anything but mainstream. Whether fashion, design, jewelry, accessories, or food, everything here is special, unique , and decidedly un-Christmassy. More information about the Christmas Quarter can be found here .

And those who still fancy some Christmas delicacies can afterwards visit the various stalls in the inner courtyard of the Museum Quarter, the Winter in the MQ .

4th Winter Days at Palais Coburg

From Friday, November 22nd at 4:00 PM , the garden in front of Palais Corburg will be transformed into a festive gourmet paradise . Pleasant lounge music, cozy blankets, and warming lamps will create a welcoming atmosphere even in the cold garden. The experience will be complemented by culinary delights, many of them quite unusual . Instead of traditional mulled wine and roasted chestnuts, you'll find chili-cherry punch and homemade hot dogs, for example. A secluded winter haven in the heart of the city! Find more information about this gourmet experience here .

5. Christmas Village Belvedere Palace

From November 22nd to December 26th, another Christmas village stretches out directly in front of Belvedere Palace, offering highlights for all ages. Numerous stalls offer handcrafted goods and exquisite gifts. Culinary desires are satisfied with Austrian delicacies and a variety of punch and mulled wine . The consistently high quality ensures true gastronomic delights. Gospel choirs and musical groups create a festive atmosphere, while younger guests enjoy the children's nostalgic carousel and a reindeer train. You can find the exact opening times here . Those who haven't had their fill of the wonderful offerings after Christmas can explore the New Year's village from December 27th to 31st.

6th Art Advent Karlsplatz

This market prioritizes communication and interaction between exhibitors and visitors. Unique handcrafted items, organic food, and a comprehensive entertainment program make this Advent market truly special. The organizers are also the artists themselves, who each year invite additional guest exhibitors, take care of the musical program, and even contribute to the culinary offerings themselves. This market is somewhat different from traditional Christmas markets, but that's precisely what makes it so popular and worth seeing . You can find all the exhibitors and further information here .

We hope you enjoy many pleasant pre-Christmas hours with this selection and get into the festive spirit. Have fun and happy mulled wine drinking !