Christmas in Vienna - the complete guide to the Christmas vacation in the city of Vienna
Imagine yourself wrapped up like an apple strudel in your warmest scarf, standing at the foot of a centuries-old palace with Christmas stalls in the background offering goodies. Welcome to the city of Vienna at Christmas, a place where the mulled wine flows at least as much as the Danube, a glorious symphony of lights, sparkles and colors.
The anticipation of winter in the city of Vienna brings with it an image of a kingdom wrapped in warmth, one that is so in contrast to the freezing cold outside. With the opening of the holiday season, the city of Vienna becomes a canvas of twinkling lights, baroque architecture wrapped in splendor and streets that echo the melody of traditional Christmas carols. This is a city where the spirit of Christmas has become part of the DNA of its residents.
A trip to the city of Vienna during the Christmas period is really not a standard vacation, but a journey spanning hundreds of years, one where every stone and corner has a story, every market stall contains treasures, and every fragrance in the air invites you to enjoy and pamper yourself.
Today we have written for you the comprehensive guide for a vacation in Vienna during the Christmas season. From the twinkling lights of the Rathausplatz to the harmonious chords of the Viennese choirs, we'll navigate the city's festive boulevards, ensuring you'll be able to enjoy the essence of Viennese Christmas.
What do you do in Vienna at Christmas? Going to the famous concerts!
Why Vienna?
You must be asking yourself what is so special about the city of Vienna during the Christmas season? Because Christmas brings with it joy and color to all of Europe. Vienna, the capital city of Austria, turns into a glittering winter kingdom during Christmas, inviting millions of tourists every year to fall in love. Here are the reasons for this:
historical atmosphere- They say not to look at the jar but at what's in it, but when it comes to the city of Vienna why not look at both? The magnificent architecture of the city of Vienna - the cobbled streets and the imperial buildings of the city form the perfect setting for the many Christmas experiences, creating an image of a magical fairytale kingdom, with the squares and royal palaces lit up with colors and lively Christmas markets set up at their feet.
Christmas Markets- Vienna's Christmas markets, called in the local language "Christkindlmärkte", are for many the highlight of a vacation in the city during the Christmas season. These markets are not only shopping centers but community meeting points, places where tourists and locals alike meet and hang out. The glow of twinkling lights, the sounds of Christmas and the aromas of spiced mulled wine and roasted chestnuts fill the air, creating a cheerful environment that leaves no one indifferent, not even the coldest Austrian.
cultural celebrations- Christmas in Vienna is a time when the city's glorious musical heritage comes to the fore. From classical concerts featuring the works of Vienna's own composers, such as Mozart and Strauss, to the angelic voices of Viennese choirs, the city is a hotbed of musical celebration during the holiday season.
The unique holiday traditions- Throughout the month of December, the city of Vienna turns into a kind of vibrant and colorful living museum, with all its sites and attractions offering holiday editions - from the museums that present colorful pop-up exhibitions, through children's activities all over the city, to the ice skating rinks and countless other surprises.
Culinary delights- Of course, the Viennese Christmas would not be complete without the variety of seasonal treats it brings, from the local Christmas cookies "Lebuchen" to the "Sacherwürstel" sausages, the city offers plenty of culinary delights.
Dates that should be known
When planning a trip to Vienna during the Christmas season, it is important to be aware of the important dates and their effect on hours
Holidays in the country
December 8: National holiday in Austria (called Feast of the Immaculate Conception). On this day, some businesses in the city may be closed, but the vast majority of Christmas markets are open and some even offer activities and surprises.
December 24 (Christmas Eve): Austrian Christmas Eve is a day when businesses close early - the shops, websites, government offices and a significant number of restaurants and cafes. The markets may also close in the evening, so it is better to visit them in the morning. You can book (in advance!) a place for restaurants that offer Christmas dinner for tourists.
December 25 (Christmas Day): A public holiday where almost all shops, markets, sites and attractions and restaurants are closed. On this day there may also be changes in the frequency of public transport, and in rural areas outside the city it does not operate at all. Not a day to walk the streets of the city, but there are several restaurants that operate in holiday format with special menus for the holiday.
December 26 (Saint Stephen's Day): It is also a public holiday and similar to Christmas Day in terms of website hours.
December 31 - New Year's Eve (Silvester): Although by definition not part of the holiday season, it is worth noting that Vienna's New Year's Eve celebrations, including the famous "Silvesterpfad" in the city center, begin on December 31st. It is a lively evening with parties, events, performances and markets that take part all over the city.
Attractions and services during the holidays
Museums and attractions: usually open regular hours during the month of December, closing early on December 24th and mostly closed on December 25th and 26th.
Restaurants: Many restaurants will be open during the holidays, but with special menus and sometimes at higher prices. It is important to make reservations well in advance, especially for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.
Shops: Shops increase their opening hours in the weeks before Christmas, especially in the main shopping areas and Christmas markets. However, most of them close early on December 24th and will remain closed on the 25th and 26th of the month.
Public transport: Vienna's public transport system normally operates on a Sunday timetable on 25 and 26 December, with a regular timetable resuming on 27 December. On Christmas Eve, services may close earlier than usual.
Most of Vienna's Christmas markets open in mid-November and run until December 23 or 24 (more on each below). A small part is closed for Rosh Hashanah.
Vienna's Christmas markets
The highlight of the holiday season in Vienna is undoubtedly its traditional Christmas markets. Each market has its own unique charm, as they all offer a colorful and luxurious journey between souvenir stalls, decorations, handicrafts and culinary delights. Here is an overview of the most popular markets in Vienna:
Vienna Magic Market (Wiener Weihnachtstraum am Christkindlmarkt)
Location: Rathausplatz, in front of the Vienna City Hall (Rathaus).
Dates (as of 2023): 10.11-26.12
שעות פתיחה: Every day of the week between 10:00 and 22:00.
The Christmas market in front of the town hall (Rathaus) is perhaps the most iconic and magnificent, earning the title of 'Vienna's magic market'. The market is famous for its spectacular lighting and the huge Christmas tree that is placed in the center. In the market you will find dozens of stalls that offer everything from everything - from souvenirs to food to warm and delightful wine. In addition to the market stalls, you will find an ice skating rink, a classic carousel and a designated area for children to engage in Christmas crafts.
Spittelberg Christmas Market
Location: Spittelberggasse 1-30, Spittelberg neighborhood.
Dates (as of 2023): 16.11-23.12
שעות פתיחה: Mondays to Thursdays 14:00 to 21:00
Fridays 14:00 a.m. to 21:30 p.m.
Saturdays 10:00 to 21:30
Sunday and holidays 10:00 to 21:00
Located in the charming Spitalberg neighborhood, this market is known for its handicrafts and intimate atmosphere, nestled between Biedermeier buildings and narrow, picturesque lanes. This is the perfect place to find unique handmade gifts - ceramics, wooden toys and jewelry.
Belvedere Palace Market (Weihnachtsmarkt Schloss Belvedere)
Location: Prinz-Eugen-Straße 27.
Dates (as of 2023): 17.11-26.12
שעות פתיחה: Midweek - 11:00 to 21:00, on weekends we open at 10:00.
A small and magical Christmas market that is considered one of the favorites among the locals. The background to that intimate market is the Belvedere Palace, a baroque palace that makes everything more beautiful and luxurious. Alongside the traditional Christmas market goods, you will also find stalls selling high quality art prints and handicrafts.
Schönbrunn Palace New Year's Market (Weihnachtsmarkt & Neujahrsmarkt Schloss Schönbrunn)
Location: In front of Schönbrunner Palace, on Schönbrunner Schloßstraße.
Dates (as of 2023): 18.11-4.1.2024
שעות פתיחה: Every day of the week between 10:00 and 21:00.
In the former imperial summer residence, the magnificent Shenbron palace, it has a colorful and magnificent market that operates until December 25.12th as a Christmas market, after which it operates until January 4.1th as a 'New Year market'. The market offers a more luxurious shopping experience, with quality handicrafts and traditional performances that make the experience even more charming.
Vienna Art Market (Art Advent – Kunst & Handwerk am Karlsplatz)
Location: Karlsplatz 13, Wien.
Dates (as of 2023): 24.11-23.12
שעות פתיחה: Every day of the week between 12:00 and 20:00.
A Christmas market that is entirely dedicated to different arts, and you will find a variety of stalls that offer products from local artists. In the market you will also find a petting zoo for children and a wide variety of organic and environmental products.
Christmas Market at Maria Theresa Square (Weihnachtsmarkt Maria-Theresien-Platz)
Location: Maria-Theresien-Platz.
Dates (as of 2023): 15.11-27.12
שעות פתיחה: Sunday to Thursday between 11:00 and 21:00. Friday and Saturday between 11:00 and 22:00.
Located between the Museum of Natural History and the Museum of Art History, this market is perfect for culture lovers. You can enjoy the spectacular view of the museums lit up at night while wandering among the charming Christmas stalls, where you will find delicious food, colorful decorations and a lively atmosphere.
Tips for a winning visit to Vienna's Christmas markets
Visit in the evening: The markets are especially magical in the evening when the lights are on and the market becomes colorful. There will often also be live performances in the main markets.
Weekdays vs. Weekends: For a quieter experience, come visit on weekdays as weekends can be very busy.
taste taste taste: Don't miss traditional foods such as bratwurst, maroni (roasted chestnuts), and sweets such as lebuchen and marzipan.
Dress well: The markets are held in the open air, so it is recommended to have warm clothing. If that doesn't help either, a good mug of mulled wine or local punch will do the trick.
Stock up on cash: While the vast majority of stalls accept credit, it is recommended to carry cash for those that do not.
Prater Park Christmas Village (Wintermarkt am Riesenradplatz)
The Christmas Village, also called the Vienna Winter Market, is a magnificent combination of a living museum and a Christmas market. The village takes part in the Prater urban park, home of Vienna's Ferris wheel - one of the city's iconic landmarks.
In the Vienna Winter Village you will find dozens of stalls selling traditional crafts and Christmas souvenirs, alongside gifts, decorations and souvenirs, as well as food and drink stalls. You can enjoy classic Austrian sausages, roasted chestnuts, sweet pastries, and of course, warm up with some Glühwein (mulled wine) or punch (spiced fruit punch that is often served with rum).
The Christmas Village also puts on live performances, from choirs singing traditional carols to bands playing holiday music. In addition, many of the Parter theme park attractions remain open, offering fun for all ages.
The live concerts always take place Wednesday to Sunday from 19:00 to 20:30. The entrance is of course free of charge.
Vienna's Christmas Village is considered one of the highlights of visiting the city at Christmas time, as it is perfect for young people, families with children and anyone who wants to enjoy a colorful journey in the urban nature of Vienna.
Location: Riesenradplatz 2, A-1020 Vienna.
Dates (as of 2023): 18.11-7.1.2024
שעות פתיחה: Monday-Friday 12:00 - 22:00.
Saturday/Sunday and holidays 11:00 - 22:00.
Admission is free
The culinary delights of Viennese Christmas
Vienna's culinary delights at Christmas time are an integral part of the festive spirit alongside the markets and decorations. During the Christmas period, Austrian cuisine also takes on color and interest, when you will find a wide variety of wonderful dishes that can only be found during the holiday season. The culinary delights can be found in the market stalls, the cafes, the restaurants and the local patisseries.
hot beverages
Mulled wine: There is no Christmas market where you won't find this mulled wine, and the local Austrians joke that they first build the wine stand and then set up the market itself. It is a red wine heated and seasoned with cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise, citrus and sugar, and the taste - wow!
Punch: somewhat similar to the hot wine but more fruity, comes with a variety of bases such as tea, fruit and various spirits. Alcohol-free versions can also be found.
Heisse Schokolade: Hot chocolate, sometimes with rum or brandy, topped with whipped cream - perfect for children and adults.
Traditional treats
Wiener Würstel: Viennese sausages served with mustard in a bun. Most will have pork sausages.
Kasekrainer: a hot dog in a bun, the hot dog itself is filled with small pieces of cheese.
Tafelspitz: a stewed beef dish that is usually served in the colder months and can be a warming and comforting meal during the cold Christmas season.
Sweet delicacies
Vanilla crescents: Crescent-shaped biscuits made with ground almonds or hazelnuts, dusted with powdered sugar.
Gingerbread: A soft and delicious biscuit that comes in different shapes and is usually covered in chocolate.
Christstollen: Fruit bread with nuts, spices and dried or candied fruits, coated with powdered sugar. This is a German delicacy that is also popular in Austria.
christmas cookies: a general name for Christmas cookies, come in a huge number of types and are often homemade cookies.
mozartkugeln: Famous Austrian chocolate balls made of marzipan, nougat and dark chocolate, named after the Austrian composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart.
Maroni: Roasted chestnuts that are made right on the spot. Often sold on street corners and market stalls.
What else not to miss during the Christmas period in the city of Vienna
Visiting Vienna during the Christmas season is an unforgettable experience, full of magical traditions and festive activities. To get the most out of your visit, there are experiences you simply must not miss:
Attend a classical concert
Take in a performance by the world-famous Vienna Boys' Choir, which often holds concerts during the Christmas season. Among other things, you can enjoy concerts at St. Stephan's Cathedral (Domkirche St. Stephan), classical music concerts in a breathtaking environment.
Explore the imperial architecture
Schönbrunn Palace (Schloss Schönbrunn) - Explore the palace and its lavishly designed rooms, often hosting Christmas concerts in its conservatory.
Hofburg Palace - The former imperial palace hosts a variety of events, including Christmas exhibitions, alongside the spectacular decorations.
Ice Skating
Take advantage of the seasonal ice rinks, such as the one in front of the town hall (Rathausplatz) which opens every year next to Vienna's huge Christmas market, offering a large and fun skating rink. A wonderful experience for those who experience skating for the first time and for professionals in the field.
Wander the decorated and illuminated city
From the middle of November until the beginning of January, Vienna becomes a colorful and illuminated kingdom, with its main streets, squares and buildings illuminated with festive and sparkling lighting. Don't miss Graben Street and Kohlmarkt Street, two adjacent streets in the city center that in the cold winter months are lit up with a glittering chandelier display. Also, don't miss the popular shopping street Kärntner Straße, which is illuminated and decorated differently every year. The Rathausplatz and the Vienna City Hall (Wiener Rathaus) also wear a colorful winter dress, where the big Vienna Christmas tree is also located.
Shopping
Shopping in Vienna during the Christmas season is a delightful experience, one that offers everything from traditional Austrian art to luxury items and international fashion. Many stores extend their operating hours and most of them offer discounts and benefits that cut prices. Don't miss the Christmas markets we talked about, and Vienna's shopping streets, which take on color and interest, alongside the discounts and benefits offered by the stores.
Kärntner Straße: Vienna's most famous shopping street, home to international brands and local shops.
Mariahilfer Straße: One of Europe's longest shopping streets, it offers a mix of international brands, department stores and small boutiques.
Graben and Kohlmarkt: These streets are the high-end shopping centers of Vienna, with high-end brands and world-class flagship stores.
Tips for a successful shopping experience
Opening times: During the Christmas season, most stores are open during extended hours, especially during the month of December. However, most shops are closed on December 25th and 26th and January 1st.
Shopping on Sundays: Traditionally, shops in Vienna are closed on Sundays, but during December, some shopping areas may open, especially the shops in the main train stations and at the airport.
Tax-free shopping: Take advantage of tax-free shopping. You can claim back the VAT on purchases over €75.
Payment: While credit cards are widely accepted throughout the city, some market stalls may only take cash, so it's always good to have some on hand.
Weather
The city of Vienna is located in the heart of the European continent, and its climate is European and cold for all intents and purposes. Temperatures in December range from 0 to 5 degrees Celsius during the day, and may drop below zero during the night. Snow is common in the city, but by no means guaranteed, and while in many years Vienna is under a blanket of white snow for days and weeks, there are mild years with little snow.
The weather in November and December may be confused, bright and sunny one day, cloudy and cold the next. Fog and cloudy skies are of course commonplace, lending a mystical atmosphere to the city's baroque architecture and Christmas lights.
How do you dress?
Layers!: It is recommended to dress in layers because the Europeans really like to heat the closed places. When you enter shops, restaurants or cafes you can remove the upper layers, and when you walk around outside you will wrap yourself in a warm coat, a woolen hat, gloves and a scarf.
Always check the weather forecast before your trip so you can pack accordingly. Despite the cold, the festive atmosphere of the city's Christmas markets and the charm of its snow-covered streets more than compensate for the chill in the air.
In conclusion, while the snowflakes fall on the cobbled streets of Vienna, the city spreads out like the best Christmas presents, sparkling under the twinkling lights. If you've ever longed to know what it feels like to step inside a snow globe, this is probably what it feels like to visit Vienna at Christmas. So equip yourself with a warm coat and go enjoy the lights, aromas, tastes and sounds of Christmas in Vienna.
