Christmas Markets in Vienna

The Christmas Markets in Vienna truly are an age-old tradition. The forerunners of the present-day events date back to the Middle Ages when in 1298 Albrecht I granted Vienna's citizens the privilege of holding a December Market or "Krippenmarkt". Since then, the character and prevalence of these markets has changed considerably. Nowadays over 20 official Advent Markets sell a vast array of seasonal gifts and mouth-watering treats.

Magic of Advent in the Rathauspark
The Christmas Market on Vienna's City Hall Square is an unforgettable highlight for visitors eager to get into the Christmas spirit. The unique backdrop of the Burgtheater and Vienna City Hall gives this Christmas Market a charm all of its own, and the delicious aroma of punch, traditional gingerbread, roasted almonds and honey is sure to lull all visitors into the seasonal joy.
Where: Rathauspark, on the square in front of the City Hall
When: 17th November - 24th December 2012
Opening Hours: Daily: 09:00 a.m. - 09:30 p.m., Friday & Saturday: 10:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m., 24th December: 10:00 a.m. - 06:00 p.m.
www.christkindlmarkt.at

Christmas Village Belvedere Palace
Explore baroque lifestyle and traditional handicrafts. The popular Christmas Village is set against the glorious baroque backdrop of the world-famous Belvedere Palace, one of Vienna‘s most beautiful and significant sights. More than 40 festively decorated market stalls offer traditional handcrafted goods, elaborate Christmas decorations and special culinary delights.
Where: Belvedere Palace, Prinz Eugen-Straße
When: 23rd November - 23rd December 2012
Opening Hours: Monday - Friday: 11:00 a.m. - 09:00 p.m., Saturday & Sunday: 10:00 a.m. - 09:00 p.m.
www.weihnachtsdorf.at

Christmas Village Maria-Theresien Platz
Experience impressive Viennese buildings and traditional Christmas customs at the Maria-Theresien Platz this winter, located between the Museum of Natural History and the Museum of Art. There is no escaping the Christmas atmosphere with festively decorated market stalls and a vast array of culinary delights
Where: Maria-Theresien Platz
When: 21st November - 24th December 2012
Opening Hours: Daily: 11:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m., 24th December: 11:00 a.m. - 03:00 p.m.
www.weihnachtsdorf.at

Christmas Village at the University Campus
The Christmas Village at Vienna's former General Hospital ("Altes AKH") will enchant the visitor with its traditional Viennese atmosphere. The lovingly designed and decorated market stalls located on the many narrow alleyways offer beautiful Christmas gifts as well as delicious mulled wine.
Where: Universitätscampus, Alserstrasse
When: 17th November - 23rd December 2012
Opening Hours: Monday - Friday: 02:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m., Saturday & Sunday & Holidays: 11:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m.
www.weihnachtsdorf.at

Art and Christmas Market Schönbrunn Palace
Approximately 60 exhibitors present handicrafts and original gifts such as hand-made Christmas decorations and nativity sets for visitors to admire and purchase right in front of the famous Schönbrunn Palace. The fragrance of fresh Christmas cakes, biscuits and hot punch fills the air and creates a wonderful atmosphere.
Where: Parade Court, in front of Schönbrunn Palace
When: 24th November - 26th December 2013
Opening Hours: Daily: 10:00 a.m. - 09:00 p.m., 24th December: 10:00 a.m. - 04:00 p.m., 25th December 2012 - 1st January 2013: 10:00 a.m. - 06:00 p.m.
www.weihnachtsmarkt.co.at

Christmas Market Spittelberg
Spittelberg is a revitalized heritage district from the Biedermeier period with narrow side streets. At the Christmas Market you will find objects d'art, ceramics, warm jumpers, rugs and jewellery made of silver, enamel and brass.
Where: Spittelberg, behind the Volkstheater
When: 15th November - 23rd December 2012
Opening Hours: Monday - Thursday: 02:00 p.m. - 09:00 p.m., Friday: 02:00 p.m. - 09:30 p.m., Saturday: 10:00 a.m. - 09:30 p.m., Sunday & Holidays: 10:00 a.m. - 09:00 p.m.
www.spittelberg.at

Old-Style Viennese Christmas Market
The Altwiener Christkindlmarkt is located against the backdrop of numerous palaces in the Freyung district of the Old Town. The goods on offer cover everything from hand-decorated Christmas tree candles to traditional basket ware.
Where: Freyung, Schottengasse
When: 23rd November - 23rd December 2012
Opening Hours: Daily: 10:00 a.m. - 09:00 p.m.
www.wien.info

Divina Art Christmas Market on Karlsplatz
This market unites more than 60 craftsmen and women from Europe presenting their unique work. Besides the market the visitors can discover the convergence of town and countryside, children and adults, art and culture. Spectacular fire shows, an intelligent yet hearty programme for children, the best live music, daily poetry readings and much more awaits.
Where: In front of the Karlskirche, Karlsplatz
When: 23rd November - 23rd December 2012
www.wien.info

For further information on Austrian Christmas Markets for UK visitors, please contact our Holiday Information Line:
UK: 0845 1011818 (local rate)
IRE: 189 0930118 (local rate)
Email: holiday@austria.info