The Top 5 Christmas Markets in Vienna 2025
Hardly any city transforms so enchantingly in winter as Vienna. Between sparkling lights, fragrant mulled wine and classical melodies, an atmosphere unfolds that must be experienced.
Do you prefer traditional, creative or rather lively and family-friendly? We present the top 5 Christmas markets in Vienna for 2025 – with opening times, highlights and a small “which fits you best?” guide for your perfect Advent tour.
Your guide to Vienna’s Christmas markets – which one suits you best?
|
christmas market |
family |
food |
Romantic |
art & Design |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
spittelberg | ||||
|
karlsplatz | ||||
|
rathausplatz | ||||
|
schloss schönbrunn | ||||
|
prater |
Weihnachtsmarkt am Spittelberg
In the narrow alleys of the 7th district lies one of the most charming Christmas markets in the city: the Weihnachtsmarkt am Spittelberg. This one is not about mass crowds, but atmosphere. Craftspeople, designers and small artisan workshops present handmade products – from jewellery to ceramics to sustainable gift ideas.
Culinarily, you’ll find regional and vegan options, all with a focus on quality and sustainability – even at Christmas. If you just want to drift and explore, this is the place: stroll with a cup of organic mulled wine through the cobbled alleys and enjoy genuine Viennese Christmas charm.
Ideal for: Craft & design lovers, connoisseurs and everyone looking for the authentic.
Art Advent am Karlsplatz
The Art Advent is Vienna’s sustainable Christmas market – and you feel it in every detail. Located directly in front of the impressive Karlskirche, it is not only visually a highlight but also conceptually unique: here only craftspeople may exhibit who create their works themselves.
In addition, there’s a consistently organic gastronomy offering – from soups to roasted chestnuts to mulled cider – all in certified organic quality. Especially in the evening, when the church is bathed in golden light and live music is playing, a nearly magical pre-Christmas atmosphere emerges.
Ideal for: Creative, conscious foodies & design lovers.
Tip: Come in the evening – the atmosphere in the glow of Karlskirche is incomparable.
Wiener Christkindlmarkt am Rathausplatz
The classic among Vienna’s Christmas markets – and a must for anyone who wants to experience Vienna in Advent. The Christkindlmarkt at Rathausplatz, with its countless light arches, the huge ice-skating area and over 100 stalls, is a true Christmas spectacle.
Here you’ll find everything: mulled wine, gingerbread, handmade gifts, Christmas decorations – and of course the impressive setting of Vienna’s City Hall. For families there is a children’s world with carousels, crafting stations and the famous illuminated Ferris wheel.
Ideal for: Families, visitors to Vienna, Christmas romantics.
Tip: If you prefer a quieter visit, go mid-week or earlier in the afternoon.
Weihnachtsmarkt Schloss Schönbrunn
A Christmas market as if taken from a fairy tale: in front of the magnificent façade of Schönbrunn Castle stands one of Vienna’s most beautiful markets. Elegant crafts, classical music and fragrant delicacies create a festive atmosphere unlike any other.
The market is known for its high-quality gift ideas, live concerts and its family-friendly programme – including fairy-tale hours, crafting workshops and a small children’s ice-rink. After Christmas it transforms into a New Year’s market, open until 6 January – ideal for anyone visiting Vienna over the turn of the year.
Ideal for: Romantics, families & culture enthusiasts.
Tip: Combine the market with a walk through the castle park or a guided visit through the palace.
Wintermarkt am Riesenradplatz (Prater)
The Wintermarkt at the Prater is the liveliest of Vienna’s Christmas markets. Here festive mood meets action: rides, stages, live music and New Year’s Eve events make it especially popular with families and groups of friends.
Culinary variety is plentiful – from classic sausages to international specialties. Especially beautiful: the view of the brightly lit Ferris wheel above the city.
Ideal for: Families, groups of friends & anyone who loves to celebrate.
Tip: Ideal as an evening finale after a stroll through the Prater – with mulled wine and live tunes.
Hidden gems & smaller Christmas markets in Vienna
If you’re after a little less hustle and bustle, Vienna also offers numerous smaller yet equally charming Advent markets:
These markets are perfect if you’d like to discover a quieter, more authentic side of Vienna.
Whether you prefer strolling through tiny alleys or the big Christmas-magic experience – Vienna offers the right market for every taste.
